Luxe September/October 2015

luxe magazine £5.00

ISSUE 36 SEP/OCT15

£5

ISSUE 36 SEP/OCT15

AITO R K A R A N K A AT B ORO. Rugby f ever. S EAFOOD W ITH L AYBOU RNE. Cos y c l o th e s . CH I C CAB IN FEV ER . A-l i s t er sp as . G ARD EN GROWS. Party p e o p l e . J A M E S CLO S E EATS W EL L . Art l i f e. COOL INTERIORS. Autumn c ultu re . H I P H OT E L S . Bi g names. TR AV EL ES S ENTIAL S . Luxe.

WHERE SOLD

WELCOME

contents 06>> Pete Graves ISSUE 36 SEP/OCT15 The barbecue embers are barely cold (if you actually managed one this so-called summer), you’re desperately moisturising the last hints of that holiday suntan and you keep grabbing a euro rather than a pound coin for the supermarket trolley.

It’s a new term for all of us whether school features in your life or not - though it will have been tiresomely brought into focus if you’ve had to endure a back-to-school shoes queue.

I’m quite a fan of the solidity, routine and casserole-pleasures of autumn and dark nights, you know where you are: no need to take clothing for every eventuality every time you walk out of the door like you do in summer.

So with a new pencil case on the desk we introduce our new starters - Darren and Chris who will be talking interiors and gardens (see right).

And your homework is a dip into our rather fabulous Travel Essentials magazine. It’s definitely an A* read for the dark nights.

Don’t forget to clock in with us every Thursday for our lively must-read Luxe Loves The Weekend email bulletin.

Sign up free at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend

EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Katharine Capocci Fiona McLain Elysia Agnew SALES Lisa Anderson director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk

08>> Do This Autumn’s cultural must-dos

18>> Aitor Karanka Madrid to Middlesbrough for Boro boss

30>> Autumn Feast Pages of inspiring food

40>> Cosy Days Wrap-up warm fashion

56>> Make-up Magic Charlotte Tilbury checks in

64>> Woodland Chic Darren Crichton-Jones joins Luxe as our gardening guru, sowing seeds of inspiration for you.

His luxe things in life are: the stillness and wildlife of the garden at dawn: Dinner at The Star at Harome, his favourite North Yorkshire pub and his Rolex Deepsea Sea-dweller, “never without it!”

Canadian-cabin interiors cool

70>> Luxe Local Quayside living in the city

78>> Hip Hotels Deb spas in the city

80>> Little Luxe New term for small peeps

86>> Petrol Power Impressive motors on show

92>> Social Diary

Kathryn Armstrong, editor kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Twitter: TheLuxeMagazine

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk

TV’s sport man has a ball

What the Luxe people have been up to

Chris Stocks is the man with an eye on interiors here at Luxe with a new column starting this edition.

Chris loves the fine things in life and his luxe things include: spending time with his wife (they’ve just come back from honeymoon), his Tom Ford Private Collection aftershave decanter and a sip of some good single malt.

PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@nrphotography.co.uk Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.com DESIGN Remember Media If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Lisa Anderson: lisa@remembermedia.co.uk / 07734 560565 or Debi Coldwell: debi@remembermedia.co.uk / 07910 918366

Remember Media Ltd, e.volve Centre, Cygnet Way, Rainton Bridge South, DH4 5QY remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2015 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, August 2015.

Steve Cochrane is well-known in the North East heading up fashion empire, Psyche from its Middlesbrough base.

His luxe things in life include: the Friday ‘switch-off’ game of squash at David Lloyd’s. His very indulgent Paul Smith carbon snowboard and a seafood platter eaten at his favourite restaurant in Florence.

Join us every Thursday...

Register FREE to receive LLTW every Thursday at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend

Our partners

SEP/OCT15

3

LUXE LIFE

LUXE LOVES Kind of blue Early Christmas gift to self? Go on... A real lust-after, this Patek Philippe Ladies Annual Calendar in white gold with blue sunburst dial, is set with 155 Top Wesselton diamonds. ÂŁ32,820 www.berrysjewellers.co.uk

4

SEP/OCT15

Delivered by

Shop late ’til 8pm Mon-Fri and 7pm Sat.

@newcastleNE1

getintonewcastle.co.uk

LUXE LIFE

PETE GRAVES

Pete Graves is a familiar face to sports fans as a presenter on Sky Sports. He’s currently busy in the new-look Sky Sports News HQ studio with Premier League dramas and those full-on weekends.

Pete will be hosting the up-coming Spiderman Ball in Newcastle for Jonas Guttierez LUXE PEOPLE >> Of course, my family mean the world to me. My wife Stephanie deserves a special mention for putting up with the demands of our two young children... and me!

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > A cheeky weekend in Barcelona.

A long holiday > Florida with the kids.

A treat > Just being at home with my family.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I enjoy all foods, but I’m particularly keen on things with a kick! So just add chilli and I’m sold.

Best wine > I’m a beer and whisky man. Beers from the Far East and whisky from Scotland please.

Favourite restaurant > I hate this question because there are so many fantastic places in the North East.

Honestly, you could go somewhere different every night and never have a bad meal. I’ll play safe, and vote for my wife’s cooking.

Perfect weekend > Friday night on the town, Saturday at the match, Sunday lunch with the family.

Downtime means > A strum on the guitar, an afternoon on the golf course or an hour in the gym.

Best telly > I’m all about sports and movies. If there’s live sport on the box I’ll watch it. If not, I’ll stick a movie on.

Best book > I read a lot of sporting biographies.

I also enjoy the occasional bit of classic fiction Sebastian Faulks, George Orwell and Evelyn Waugh are my ‘go-to’ authors.

Best sounds > I love a bit of rock! Give me some Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day or Nirvana.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I hate shopping. I’ll try and do it online if I can. If it’s forced upon me, then Newcastle would be my preference.

Favourite shop > I don’t really have one, does that make me strange? Probably the off-licence, or somewhere that sells electronics.

Luxe retail treat > I could probably spend a lot of money on electrical items. So a treat would be getting let loose in a Panasonic, or Samsung store.

Best buy > My wife bought a 52 inch TV for the lounge. The footy looks pretty good on that!

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Having two children under four means nights out are hard to come by. But on the rare occasion we get a babysitter, we head straight into Newcastle! It’s still the best city in the world for a night out.

Perfect party > I love a good house party. Either at my house, so I don’t

6

have to get home, or someone else’s, so I don’t have to tidy up. Tough call.

Best outfit > I’m a fairly simple dresser. Suit jacket and jeans when I’m out, tracksuit bottoms and hoodie when I’m at home.

Dinner date > A perfect dinner date would be somewhere outdoors and warm, with my wife, and a view of the sea.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> We’ve just bought a new house up in Gosforth that we love. So that.

The Spiderman Ball in aid of the Ballboys charity for research and support into testicular cancer is being held at The Hilton, NewcastleGateshead on November 24.

For information on how you can be involved via sponsorship, donating prizes or buying tickets, contact spidermanball@ballboys.org.uk or visit www.thespidermanball.co.uk Luxe is Media Partner for the event. Donate at www.justgiving.com/luxeballboys

SEP/OCT15

A fresh approach to

Investment Management Vertem Asset Management is an independent investment management company, with an individual and modern approach to investment services.

We understand that no two clients are the same and use a blank sheet of paper approach, considering traditional and alternative investment strategies. Each investment portfolio is tailored from different combinations of funds designed to create the right blend for different investor risk levels and individual investment goals.

Our key objective is to maximize the client’s financial success whilst minimising their risk.

• Genuinely Bespoke Portfolios • Investments • Stocks & Shares • Property • Hedge Funds & Alternative Assets • Bonds • Passive & Active Funds

Vertem Asset Management The Gresham, 92 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 2TD office: 0191 341 0289 email: info@vertem.co.uk twitter: @vertemam web: www.vertem.co.uk

DO THIS

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Elysia Agnew gets into an autumn groove with some cultural inspiration to cope with the looming dark nights 1-12 SEPTEMBER The Von Trapp family take the to the stage as one of the greatest and most heartfelt musicals of all time returns in a magnificent new production. The Sound of Music tells the story of the world-famous singing family, from their romantic beginnings to their escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the breakout of WW11. Winner of BBC’s Over The Rainbow, Danielle Hope, stars as the iconic Maria Von Trapp. This enchanting and enthralling production will take you on a musical journey through the valleys of Austria, featuring the classics, My Favourite Things, Do-Re-Mi, Climb Ev’ry Mountain and The Sound of Music. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

13

SEPTEMBER

Watch The Wolf of Wall Street beneath the stars at Beamish Hall with an outdoor cinema experience featuring street food, cocktails and classic cinema snacks.

Outdoor Cinema is also offering up VIP beanbags for your Leo chillout. www.theoutdoorcinema.co.uk

3 SEPTEMBER - 4 OCTOBER Beamish hosts a season of events this autumn celebrating the North East’s agricultural heritage. Do you fancy yourself as a farming fanatic? Will your homegrown vegetables and handmade crafts win a prize? Have a go at traditional crafts or join in the harvest festivities, including Dig for Victory, Beamish Leek Show, Beamish Agricultural Show, Hands-on Heritage Skills, Harvest Festival and Harvest Home. www.beamish.org.uk

12

SEPTEMBER

Feast your eyes on one of the most unique and entertaining shows this September at The Forum, Northallerton with foodie Jay Rayner as he examines our love affair with lousy restaurant reviews and describes some of his most excruciating evening meals. The show, My Dining Hell, is your chance to set foot into the delights and distastes of the wonderful world of dining. www.forumnorthallerton.org.uk

15

SEPTEMBER

Following a huge festival season, Florence & The Machine return to the stage with their first UK tour since 2012. After playing a huge part in summer festivals, Glastonbury, Splendour In The Grass and Electric Picnic, Florence and her talented band take to the stage at Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

23 SEPTEMBER This summer Britain’s Got Talent unearthed electrifying illusionist, Darcy Oake. The Canadian magician heads to Newcastle on his first ever nationwide UK tour. This master of magic will transport his audience into another dimension with modern interpretations, exhilarating visuals and nail biting acts of illusion. www.newcastlecityhall.org

UNTIL 12 SEPTEMBER

18 SEPTEMBER

Book up for a wonderful musical journey with Lars Vogt in his first concert as Music Director. The Royal Northern Sinfonia explores the lay of the land with Sibelius’ rhapsodic Andante Festivo, Mozart’s ‘turning-point’ symphony and Grieg’s glittering concerto. A musical phenomenon. www.sagegateshead.com

8

Arc, Stockton will showcase a new play by Teesside writer Gordon Steel called Grow Up Grandad, the tale of ten-year-old Poppy and her grumpy grandad. Steel is a well-known playwright having worked with actors like Jill Halfpenny in his teaching days.

This production is co-directed by his own daughter who is now head of drama at Eton.

It will be performed by Steelworks, Gordon’s new Teesside-based theatre company.

The story is ‘poignant, hilarious, heartbreaking and humorous’ in turn.

Details on www.arconline.co.uk

24

SEPTEMBER

In a celebration of the very best sax solos, Snake Davis returns to Middlesbrough Town Hall. Alongside Gareth Moulton on vocals, the legendary saxophonist and his band promise a superb sax set littered with over 20 classics including Careless Whisper, Respect, Still Crazy After All These Years, Baker Street and Yakety Yak. What’s more, Snake will perform his very own solos from Moving On Up, Million Love Songs, and Search for the Hero. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

24

SEPTEMBER Dance City invite you to Dance Edits, a variety show previewing new work by dance makers based here in the North East. There will be eight pieces commissioned by Dance City in a range of styles to wow and inspire.

25

www.dancecity.co.uk

24/25 SEPTEMBER Michael Palin’s The Thirty Years Tour at Middlesbrough Town Hall and Sage, Gateshead will see Michael use his diaries to tell the story of a life lived in the public eye from the end of the 1960s with Monty Python’s Flying Circus through to films like A Private Function and three of the most successful travel series ever made.

He brings to life thirty extraordinary years, trawling through a stock of rarely told stories. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

25

SEPTEMBER

A highlight in September’s social calendar, this year the North East Oyster Festival is relocating from County Durham to a marquee in the heart of Newcastle, to coincide with the city’s Rugby World Cup shenanigans. There will be live entertainment including legendary Motown act Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, popular comedian Al Murray, leading bagpipe band, Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Celtic party bands, Dublin Raiders and the JJ Galway Band. Guests can also enjoy a champagne reception, oyster stalls, complimentary wine, beer and lager and a three-course fruits de mer dinner. www.theoysterfestival.co.uk

SEPTEMBER

From an appearance at T in the Park in 2004 alongside the Darkness, to opening the main stage in their own right in 2014, The Red Hot Chilli Pipers have become the most famous bagpipe band on the planet! The band’s achievements have reached incredible heights with their fusion of traditional Scottish music and rock anthems, which they proudly call ‘Bagrock’.

There has never been anything quite like The Red Hot Chilli Pipers - bagpipes with attitude and drums with a Scottish accent!

A truly unique and groundbreaking show for all at the Sage this September. www.sagegateshead.com

25 SEPTEMBER Blackfriars’ Banquet Hall was brought back to life in 2010, and this September the popular venue celebrates five years of Banquet Hall success with its 1000th event since it was restored to its former glory. The venue’s 1000th event heralds a special medieval banquet to mark the Autumn Equinox. Local friars and town wenches serve a delicious four-course feast for guests in a beautifully decorated hall with authentic and bespoke banners, chandeliers, wall covers and stained glass windows. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

AUTUMN EXHIBITION

4 SEPTEMBER - 12 NOVEMBER 2015

Gordon Wilson, Cobalt Roofs, Skye, £1500

SUPPLIERS OF UNIQUE AND STYLISH FITTINGS

Explore our new autumn exhibition, incorporating a diverse collection of contemporary paintings, prints, glass, sculpture, textiles and jewellery.

WWW.THEBISCUITFACTORY.COM

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE WWW.SARAHBOWENLIGHTING.CO.UK 63 - 65 HIGH STREET | GOSFORTH | NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE NE3 4AA TEL: 0191 285 3671

An exceptional education.

An experience like no other.

To find out more, join us at one of our open days: Junior School Open Morning Saturday 3rd October 10am-1pm.

Senior School Open Morning Saturday 7th November 10am-1pm.

EXCITING

NEWS! Our new state-of-the-art Senior School facilities are opening in 2016.

BOOK YOUR PLACE TODAY. Newcastle High School for Girls Nursery through to Sixth Form T: 0191 201 6511 E: j.howe@ncl.gdst.net newcastlehigh.gdst.net

Leading girls’ education.

SEP/OCT15

9

DO THIS

WEALTH MANAGEMENT WITH JOHN DANCE

26 SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER

THE ST LEGER METHOD ‘Sell in May, go away and don’t come back until St Leger Day’. A well known investment adage that reared its ugly head recently as a bout of extreme Chinese related volatility rocked equity markets that had already seen double digit declines since early May. The adage infers that the summer months traditionally inflict falls in equity markets and that by selling beforehand and reinvesting in, say mid-September, (the date of the St Leger at Doncaster, the oldest classic in the horse racing calendar and last of the year) investors can protect their wealth and benefit from a subsequent recovery.

Between late April of this year and late August the FTSE 100 had shed over 1000 points, nearly 15%, so followers of the St Leger Method will have been very happy with their choice, assuming they are brave enough to reinvest amid the turmoil currently being seen. In such an environment the ‘sell in May’ phrase is trotted out more often than the great race’s runners themselves.

It got me thinking about how successful following such an old wive’s tale as the St Leger Method has been statistically. Typically summer months will see lower trading volumes and that lack of liquidity can exaggerate movements in either direction, up or down, so the logic and rationale is there, but is the evidence?

Over the last 30 years the FTSE 100 has indeed fallen 10 times between 1st May and up to the second weekend of September, but that compares unfavourably to the 20 times it has actually risen between the same two dates. Using those metrics alone the adage fails to stack up at all. When you look at the annualised returns of following the strategy versus remaining invested a different picture is painted though. Including data from 1st May 1986 to 26 August 2015 and this summer’s fall, selling in May delivers a return of 9.45% per annum, versus 10.06% by staying invested. The similarity of returns highlighting that whilst the falls have been less frequent, they have on occasion been significantly greater in their size than the years that have seen gains.

Big summer drops include 1992 (the UK’s exit from the exchange rate mechanism), 1998 (Russian default), 2001 (September the 11th), 2002 (Tech/Dot Com crash), 2008 (Credit Crunch) and 2011 (European debt crisis). For the majority of those events markets went in to the summer either on existing stretched valuations or with dark economic or political clouds overhanging them. Common sense rather than just nursery rhyme like investment philosophy could have avoided those.

What it does tell us though is that particularly when markets are in vulnerable positions going in to the summer months the lack of liquidity that affects them at that time can lead to fast and exaggerated falls. Thankfully this year we have been defensively positioned which will have helped portfolios immensely to date, but only if we time reinvestment correctly and don’t miss any recovery.

It seems using common sense and sticking to your guns alongside the St Leger Method makes more sense, perhaps the adage should be revised and expanded to “If it’s grey then sell in May, don’t come back until St Leger Day, but if the sun is shining just make hay’.

For more insight and daily market commentaries follow us on twitter.

John Dance is CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Vertem Asset Management. The Gresham, 92 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2TD. Call 0191 341 0280 or email johnd@vertem.co.uk Visit www.vertem.co.uk

10

The Biscuit Factory’s autumn exhibition is headlined by Scottish oil painter Gordon Wilson and follows on from his previous sell-out exhibition at the gallery. His work is full of rich colours and patterns formed from ornate field systems and wild flowers, capturing a love of the Scottish west coast. Showcasing North East-based talent, the exhibition also features the works of almost 50 local artists, including fantasy landscapes from Darren Mundy, and iconic local city and landscapes from Judith Appleby, Alan Smith Page and Bernie Wisniewski.

Other highlights this autumn include strong line prints from Henrietta Corbett; stoneware and porcelain sculptures from ceramicist Midori Takiki; striking figurative portraits by Steven Lindsay and intricate silver and gold jewellery from ABC Collective. The autumn show runs until 12 November. www.thebiscuitfactory.com

26 SEPTEMBER Upper Redesdale Show is a traditional agricultural show and a great family day out.

There will be fine displays of sheep, cattle, dogs, produce, baking and crafts.The Border Reivers Fell Race is an exciting part of the show, and there are main ring events, children’s sports, and terrier racing. www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/ events/upper-redesdale-show

06

Whisky lovers should check out the North East’s very own Whisky Festival toasting the world’s whiskies. The annual event is organised by Ben Chambers, owner of the Wine Chambers. Prepare to sample more than 80 whiskies over the course of the day at the Park Hotel in Tynemouth. www.tynemouth.info/happening/ tynemouth-whisky-festival-2015/

08

OCTOBER

Celebrity cheffing, a drop of Laurent Perrier champagne and a mooch around the wowiest kitchens you can find. These are the ingredients for a an evening event at Pol Kefton KItchens in Morpeth to celebrate the accolade of Sub Zero & Wolf’s Living Kitchen. Chef Shaun Rankin will be at the stove.

For an invitation email info@polkefton.co.uk

04

OCTOBER

Join in on an interactive philosophical enquiry about knowledge using the archival installations of Fiona Tan at BALTIC. ‘Space to Think’ promotes philosophical dialogue and enquiry by creating interesting and inclusive spaces for people to talk and think together.

Grace Robinson and Liz Watkins, community philosophers at Thinking Space, explore questions raised by the artworks in this season’s exhibitions. In this informal setting you don’t have to be an expert of philosophy to take part; simply talk. www.balticmill.com

OCTOBER Following a truly moving performance at Glastonbury, Jack Savoretti graces the Sage. On offer, a rousing evening of incredibly elegant acoustic music. Jack Savoretti has firmly established himself as one of the country’s finest singer/songwriters with UK sales of his album, Written in Scars, approaching 50,000.

www.sagegateshead.com

6 OCTOBER

A great line-up for this ever-popular literary feast that is Durham Book Festival. Highlights include a chat with Mary Portas who talks about her journey from childhood to the glamour of window dressing in Harvey Nichols and Harrods.

Lauren Laverne and writer Laura Craik join forces to put Yves St Laurent’s style under the spotlight in a talk in conjunction with the YSL exhibition at Bowes Museum.

Caroline Criado-Perez, who recently campaigned for women to be depicted on British banknotes, speaks about her new book, Do it Like a Woman, her story of campaigning for women’s rights and dealing with cyber backlash.

Philip Pullman comes to the Durham Book Festival for a special event in celebration of his brilliant writing career.

One of the most respected children’s authors writing today. After Northern Lights, the other books in the His Dark Materials trilogy are The Amber Spyglass and The Subtle Knife. Northern Lights has also been made into a major motion picture, The Golden Compass, which will be shown as part of the festival.

And for some light refreshment, take time out with ‘Gins to Try Before You Die’. www.durhambookfestival.com

SEP/OCT15

ADVERTORIAL

Is marriage bad for your health?

Results of a recent study have been published by the American Journal of Public Health which compares the effects on physical health of being married as opposed to living together or being single.

Just the very posing of the question is likely to elicit a range of responses according to personal relationship experience, but there is no shortage of studies which endorse the institution of marriage for enhancing health and happiness.

Our own Office for National Statistics issued figures showing that “married couples live longer and are happier and healthier”.

Those amongst us with more cynical tendencies may suggest that statements such as these are simply an ongoing programme of propaganda to reinforce a centuriesold institution, but this latest in-depth study sought to study not only married couples, but those who chose to live together without marrying.

Based on extensive studies from British subjects over a prolonged period of time, the results suggest that there is no material difference in terms of impact on personal physical health between those who are married and those who choose to cohabit, whereas noticeable differences were found when comparing those who married or cohabited and those who remained single, although interestingly, the results also seemed to show that this was more the case in men than women.

Men’s health was found to decline after divorce, but recovered if they remarried, although if they divorced in

their late 30s, they were less likely to suffer poor resulting health. Dr George Ploubidis of University College London has gone so far as to say, “Not marrying or cohabiting is less detrimental among women than men. Being married appears to be more beneficial for men”.

No doubt many women would have very clear theories on why this is, particularly if they feel they have spent the “best years of their lives” running around, picking up after their own husband, and certainly historically, there are plenty of reports which support the proposition that wives encourage their husbands to keep fit, to eat properly and to visit the doctor when feeling ill (something we all know men are notoriously bad at!)

Other scientists found that not being married or in a committed cohabiting relationship can reduce life expectancy, suggesting that those who don’t have a partner are more likely to skip breakfast, eat unhealthy meals – often on the go – work long hours, and spend excessive time drinking in the pub. Cue much exaggerated eye rolling from female readers!

In the same way, previous studies suggest that in terms of women, they feel a significant benefit from marriage on an emotional level because they value being in a relationship.

In the wider psychological spectrum, studies have shown that married couples suffer less depression and fewer mental problems: A US study concluded that mental health improves consistently and materially after marriage and deteriorates notably after divorce or separation. The World Health Organisation published findings that marriage could reduce the risk of anxiety and depression and that those who married were much less likely to suffer from mental health issues than those who remained single.

If it does go wrong, however, the most recent research has shown that getting divorced has no harmful impact on future health in either men or women as long as they found a new long-term partner.

So there you have it: despite all the reports and statistics pertaining to the divorce rate, it is officially better for you to be married, even in the 21st century!

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

SEP/OCT15

11

DO THIS

6-11 OCTOBER Treat the little ones or the child in you to a dazzling evening of magic with Disney On Ice Worlds of Enchantment, a journey through Disney stories. Enter the wonderful wintry world of Arendelle with Elsa and Anna as you belt out the words to that fave Disney track, Let It Go. Be wowed by the high-speed stunts (on ice!) as Lightning McQueen, Mater and crew race like you’ve never seen before in Disney on Ice’s very own Cars performance. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

ROCKLIFFE LIFE The end of the summer is nigh and back to school time (for many) is here. But this time of year is perfect for a ‘staycation’, to celebrate the football season or just for a little ‘me time’.

Rockliffe Hall has lots happening as the nights get longer and days get shorter.

CHOCOLATE AND JOHNNY DEPP! >> Award-winning, world-renowned author, Joanne Harris, will be sharing her life story this October at Rockliffe Hall. Famed for her novel ‘Chocolat’, which was turned into an Oscar-nominated film starring Johnny Depp, Joanne has also written cookbooks and other short stories. Indulge in a sparkling reception, two-course lunch and treats while you sit back, relax and enjoy what Joanne has to say.

12th October, 12-2pm, £39.50 per person.

5* TREATMENT FOR PAMPERED POOCHES >> Want to treat your four-legged friend? Due to popular demand, Rockliffe Hall is now officially dog-friendly with a number of rooms available for guests wishing to bring their pets. Your dog will be treated to a special ‘doggy gift’ with owners invited to walk their pooches on a new, dedicated dog-walkers’ route through the 365-acre estate.

HE SHOOTS, SHE SCORES >> The football season is in full swing and Rockliffe Hall is the perfect place to combine a ‘his and hers’ break. Take a trip to the Riverside Stadium and watch the Boro from the comfort of the Rockliffe Hall executive box with a three-course buffet and drinks, while ‘football widows’ while away the afternoon in Rockliffe Hall’s indoor spa and Spa Garden.

SNEAKY STAYCATION >> No need for the holiday season to be over just yet! This special break includes use of the new Spa Garden as well as a host of treats and dinner in The Orangery as well. You can ‘pick and mix’ to make this staycation your perfect break away.

For any further details or booking contact 01325 729999 www.rockliffehall.com

ALICE IN WONDERLAND MAD HATTER AFTERNOON

Below > March Hare, Holly Richardson, Karen Richardson, Above > India Hill, Katie Wilson, Samantha Long Charles Hill

Above > Victoria Craig, White Rabbit, Amy Rucroft Below > Joanne Finley, Amaya Finley-Bell, book character Alice, Janette Chapman

Above > Lindsey Long, Ruby Willis, Ellie Blair, Ella Long

Above > Becky Gordon, Lilly Gordon-Vaughan, Judith Gordon

LIVING THE ROCKLIFFE LIFE! Rockliffe Hall, Hurworth-on-Tees, Darlington, County Durham DL2 2DU. Tel: 01325 729999 www.rockliffehall.com

12

07

OCTOBER

Check in for some new writing with a performance of The Duke in the Cupboard at The Customs House in South Shields, a play written by Susan Wear, perhaps better known in the day job as director of corporate affairs for the Port of Tyne. Her first play tells the true story of an audacious and infamous art theft in the 60s which taunted Scotland Yard and was traced back to Benwell. www.thecustomshouse.co.uk

08

10

OCTOBER

Did the kids love the new Jurassic movie this summer?

Experience a Jurassic adventure at Sage this October. A brand new family-fun production set on a magical island where anything is possible. With superb scenery, a fun script and huge dinosaurs, be part of this tale about dinosaurs and the people that study them. This Jurassic adventure allows you to follow in the footsteps of Doctor Grant and a team of explorers as they search for proof that dinosaurs still exist! www.sagegateshead.com

OCTOBER

Jungle Jake is the headliner at the annual Divas and Diamonds ball at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead Hotel this October.

Former X Factor finalist and I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here star is heading to the North East for the renowned charity ball. TV heartthrob Jake Quickenden will be popular amongst the region’s businesswomen at this women-only evening of fund-raising fun.

All money raised at this year’s event will go towards Cash For Kids. sparkles@divasanddiamondsnewcastle.co.uk

8-11 OCTOBER Catwalk fashion is back for autumn with intu Metrocentre’s Fashion Live.

Join in with a four-day fashion extravaganza, from 8 - 11 October in Town Square catwalk with shows, demos and advice from retailers across the centre.

Get ready to shop the newest trends and styles, as well as mixing up those wardrobe staples to bring you the best the centre has to offer. Forget skimpy summer and cosy into winter’s best! www.intumetrocentre.co.uk

10-11

OCTOBER

Youngsters aged between five and 15 can get involved and get active this October in the British Heart Foundation’s Mini Stampede at High Gosforth Park. Packed full of mud and challenging obstacles including Smartie Tubes, Jack and Jill’s Hill, The Slip ‘n’ Slide and the Creepy Crawler, the obstacle course at Newcastle Racecourse encourages young people from across the North East to get active and lead a heart healthy lifestyle! The one-mile-long mini version of the popular Newcastle Stampede will be both testing and fun for the kids this August. (Expect lots of muddy children!) www.bhf.org.uk/get-involved/events/runs/newcastle-stampede

SEP/OCT15

f faye darcy OPULENT EVENTS OPULENT EVENTS

WEDDING AND EVENT PLANNING BASED IN THE NORTH EAST

Located in the heart of Middlesbrough Town Centre, Market Cross Jewellers are the North Easts largest jewellers bringing you the worlds most premium brands such as...

No matter how plain or unique your style, large or small your event and budget, all services can be tailored to you. We can help as little or as much as you would like.

Faye Darcy’s event planning services cover weddings, corporate events from conferences and business dinners to Christmas parties, and personal occasions from children’s parties and baby showers to anniversaries.

PLANNING SERVICES FOR 2016 20% OFF ALL EVENTS IF BOOKED BEFORE 31/12/15

{ /fayedarcyevents | @FayeDarcyEvents ~ @fayedarcy_opulentevents email: info@fayedarcyevents.com www.fayedarcyevents.com ∙ 07951 497 846

and many more y

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE •

UP TO 50% OFF FASHION BRANDS •

STUNNING COLLECTION OF JEWELLERY BRANDS AVAILABLE

y

Teesside High School Small class sizes

Stimulating digital learning environment Accomplished and confident pupils

Excellent results & university destinations

60 Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough Tel: 01642 246 266

BRANCHES ACROSS THE NORTH EAST & ONLINE www.marketcrossjewellers.com

SEP/OCT15

Picturesque riverside location Outstanding Pastoral Care

www.teessidehigh.co.uk 01642 782095

ay on Open d Y 26 DA SATUR BER SEPTEM pm -1 9.30am

‘Education as it should be’

13

DO THIS

16 OCTOBER

1 NOVEMBER

As the world waits for Star Wars Episode VII, Royal Northern Sinfonia raises the force in a re-cap of the story so far… The iconic soundtrack will include, The Main Theme, Luke’s Theme, Leia’s Theme, Anakin’s Theme, Duel of Fates and Imperial March as we meet the Jedi Order, the Sith, the empire and the Millennium Falcon. www.sagegateshead.com

The Geordie Proms sees a showcase of North East talent at the Sage Gateshead.

Renowned bass Graeme Danby presents an evening of choral classics, top soloists and the region’s very best young talent for you all to enjoy. Graeme will be joined by hosts, Jeff Brown and Helen Pearson, in this year’s concert raising funds for North East Promenaders Against Cancer and WaterAid. www.sagegateshead.com

31 16 OCTOBER Twins Craig and Charlie Reid have enjoyed huge success across the globe as those sunshiney Leith chaps, The Proclaimers. Sing along to classic hits, Sunshine on Leith, (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles, I’m on My Way, Letter From America, Let’s Get Married and many more favourites. www.newcastlecityhall.org

18 OCTOBER Borders and books make a great combination and the borders town of Berwick-upon-Tweed is worth a visit for the second literary festival. From 16-18 October, the town will celebrate a love of books and the arts in a season already filled with celebrated events, such as the Film & Media Arts Festival and the Food & Drink Festival. An impressive list of authors and illustrators are on board including crime and children’s fiction author Bea Davenport. www.berwickliteraryfestival.com

19-24 OCTOBER Shawshank Redemption appears as a brand new stage production 21 years after it was first released. Based on Stephen King’s award-winning story, two of TV’s most loved leading men, Ian Kelsey and Patrick Robinson, star in this thrilling and emotional show. Bill Kenwright’s stage production at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal this October captures the classic story of desperation, injustice, friendship and hope. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

22

OCTOBER

The most famous of all classical ballets comes to the Sunderland Empire this October.

With its elegance and exquisite ensembles, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake is without a doubt a must-see. The timeless story of good, evil and the power of love, alongside the magnificent lyrical pas de deux and bravura solos, is a real must-see! www.atgtickets.com

OCTOBER

Randy Newman has a friend in us. The man has created musical masterpieces recognised by generations of audiences. With songs ranging from heartbreaking to satirical and a host of remarkable film scores, catch him at the Sage this October. Newman’s many honours include six Grammys, three Emmys, two Academy Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition to his solo recordings, his composing of films includes the classics: Seabiscuit, A Bug’s Life, all three Toy Story pictures and Disney Pixar’s Monsters Inc. www.sagegateshead.com

02 NOVEMBER

A lovely luncheon for you ladies this November. Prepare for Christmas over a special luncheon and a seasonal beauty bazaar at the North East’s most exciting and luxury spa hotel. Join in on this fabulous Ladies day in the Rockliffe Suite where the Spa Manager will talk you through her favourite seasonal gifts from the boutique to help you make a start with your Christmas shopping this year. Guests will enjoy a sparkling wine reception, followed by a delicious 2-course lunch and the top tips for creating your perfect Christmas gifts. This Ladies Lunch is not to be missed - you will also be treated to a lovely ladies goody bag. www.rockliffehall.com

27 NOVEMBER Discover the History of Wine with Oz Clarke at the historic Assembly Rooms, Newcastle. Join wine man Oz for a journey through the history of wine. On arrival, you will receive a sparkling English wine that rivals Champagne to get your tastebuds tingling. Followed by a five-course dinner with carefully paired wines, £99. www.guestwines.com/event/ozclarkedinner Oz also hosts a wine-tasting masterclass the following day with a carefully chosen selection of wines over lunch followed by a Q&A. £55 www.guestwines.com/event/ozclarkemasterclass The menus for both events are inspired by the countries and regions chosen by Oz. “Geordie Duo” Ruth & Kelvyn Guest of Guest Wines have organised the event with Newcastle Wine School.

Oz’s formidable reputation is based on his extensive wine knowledge and accessible, no-nonsense approach. His tasting skills have won him an international reputation and he is acknowledged as having one of the finest palates of anyone writing about wine today.

16 NOVEMBER

26-31

OCTOBER

Inspired by seven smash hit albums, Dreamboats and Miniskirts is the sequel to Dreamboats and Petticoats. The 60s musical showcase returns to theatres with a visit to the Sunderland Empire. Packed with wit, charm and wonderful music it features smash hits, Handy Man, Twist & Shout, Pretty Woman and One Fine Day. One for dark nights feel-good. www.atgtickets.com

14

Kathryn Tickell, the leading exponent of the Northumbrian pipes, composer, performer, educator and recording artist whose work is rooted in the landscape and people of Northumbria takes to the Playhouse, Whitley Bay. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

11-22 NOVEMBER

Shrek the musical is taking ‘ogre’! Our favourite big green giant stomps into Wearside this November. Straight from London, ‘Taking Ogre’ takes Sunderland Empire. With a full line-up of fairy-tale characters, tap dancing rats, a low flying dragon and a hilariously funny donkey sidekick, it promises to be an evening of fun and fits of laughter. www.atgtickets.com

SEP/OCT15

early encounters find out more at

07979 097062

Musical North

SIBELIUsand the

Mozart reclaiming

Bespoke Portraits, Spoofs & Caricatures

TickeTs from jusT ÂŁ10

SAGEGATESHEAD.COM

www.portraitgoingbust.com

South Tyneside

2015

3-10 OctOber We have a great selection of restaurants and places to eat in South Tyneside all offering a variety of cuisines, delicious fresh flavours and local produce.

Restaurants taking part will offer discounted two course set menus, which will only be offered as a one off special during this week and will differ from any other promotional deals or set menus.

For participating restaurants, offers and how to book visit:

www.southtyneside.gov.uk/ restaurantweek IT’S HAPPENING

/southtynesideevents @stynesideevents

in south tyneside

SEP/OCT15

15

GAME ON

Rugby World Cup fever looms in Newcastle as the third biggest sporting event in the world hits the city in October.

Newcastle is a host city and celebratory events are planned – on the pitch and off.

Here’s the starting line-up

Try this

St James’ Park will host three games as part of the six-week tournament. Saturday 3 October sees South Africa take on Scotland and the following weekend sees current Rugby World Cup champions New Zealand take on Tonga on Friday 9 October. The final game sees Pacific Islanders Samoa clash with Scotland on Saturday 10 October.

South Africa v Scotland >> Saturday 3 October 4.45pm New Zealand v Tonga >> Friday 9 October 8pm Samoa v Scotland >> Saturday 10 October 2.30pm Touch down at: FANZONE >> Science Central, one of the biggest urban regeneration projects of its kind in the UK, will be the proud location for Newcastle’s Rugby World Cup 2015 Official Fanzone.

During the Tournament the Fanzone will be near St James’ Park on the newly-revamped Science Central site with an action-packed timetable of entertainment and a big screen to watch all of the matches. The Fanzone will include lots of fun rugby-related activities for children and families, including a rugby pitch for touch rugby games hosted

by Newcastle Falcons Community Foundation. The RFU, governing body for Rugby Union in the UK, will be onsite to promote and encourage people to join

local rugby clubs in the region.

The Fanzone at Science Central will be open from 25 September – 11 October.

Another big screen will be installed at Newcastle’s Grey’s Monument, in the heart of the city centre, screening all the Rugby World Cup 2015 matches (excluding the games in Newcastle – these will be screened in the official Fanzone only) and the opening ceremony on Friday 18 September. www.newcastlegateshead.net/rwc/home CULTURE FIX >> Newcastle hosts its very own cultural festival as part of Rugby World Cup 2015.

Conversion brings together live music, performance, arts, street food stalls and a very special evening spectacular to entertain

the thousands of visitors to the destination.

Friday 2 October - Sunday 11 October www.conversionfestival.com EAT THE WORLD >> On Saturday 3 October a special welcome event in and around Newcastle city centre will kick-start the celebrations. Saturday 3 October also marks the opening of the EAT! Street Food Market; 40 local street food traders offering some of the best local produce the North East has to offer. The street food market will be in Newcastle city centre until Sunday 11 October.

GAME ON >> On Friday 2 October Newcastle’s Premiership Rugby Union side Newcastle Falcons has organised a special Legends Game featuring some of rugby’s biggest names. Taking place at the team’s home ground in Kingston Park, Southern Hemisphere legends take on Newcastle Falcons legends in this one-off match as part of the Rugby World Cup 2015 Festival of Rugby. With Newcastle Falcons alumni including Jonny Wilkinson, Doddie Weir and Inga Tuigamala, expect some big names to be announced. Tickets are on sale now from: www.newcastlefalcons.co.uk PARTY >> Taking place on the same weekend as

16

Scotland’s highly-anticipated clash against South Africa, the monthly Boiler Shop Steamer takes on a party theme, bringing together some of the UK’s leading street food vendors and some of the best bands and DJs around. www.theboilershopsteamer.com VISIT >> Sage Gateshead will be turfing its foyer during the tournament and screening some of the games. Visitors to Sage Gateshead during Rugby World Cup 2015 will also be treated to musical performances inspired by the visiting teams. www.sagegateshead.com Discovery Museum in Newcastle is planning an exhibition celebrating Rugby in Tyne and Wear. They have issued an open call for memorabilia and stories. www.discoverymuseum.org.uk FINALE >> The Rugby World Cup 2015 celebrations in Newcastle come to a spectacular close on the evening of Sunday 11 October with a performance by Les Commandos Percu and Deabru Beltzak. Expect drumming, fireworks and an energetic performance from the two internationally acclaimed percussion companies.

SEP/OCT15

�� � � � Y�� �

�! e � � �m

PETROL POWER

Star cars A dazzling turnout for NE1 Newcastle Motor Show - and it’ll be back next year!

Never before had Newcastle seen such a fantastic display of some of the world’s finest cars. From modern-day supercars to the stars of yesteryear, all gathered together on the UK’s favourite street, Grey Street and around Newcastle’s famous Grey’s Monument. Headlined by event sponsors Benfield, who showcased their Audi & Nissan brands, the NE1 Newcastle Motor Show brought together some of the North East’s most prominent car dealerships with hundreds of private car owners to create one of the UK’s largest free motor shows.

The two-day open-air event, organised by Newcastle NE1 Ltd, delivered a unique experience for the thousands of visitors who brought the city to a standstill as they got up close to some of the multi-million pound exhibits. Many of the cars are usually showcased at VIP, invitation-only events but here in Newcastle they were out of their exclusive showrooms and on display for public enjoyment - and enjoy they did.

The weekend surpassed all expectations with over 60,000 visitors on day one with a further 40,000-plus on Sunday.

The event delivered a one-off opportunity to see a number of cars that had never been seen before in the region, including the spectacular Aston Martin DB9 GT, on display in Newcastle on only its second outing in the world, the Aston Martin GTE Le Mans race car and Sebastian Vettel’s Infiniti Redbull Formula 1 race car.

The experience was second to none and plans are afoot to build on the event next year.

Commenting on the success, Stephen Patterson, Director of

GO FASTER >>

North East Formula 1 hopeful, Matty Graham, gave a few driving tips to Olympic World record holder Jonathan Edwards ahead of the Formula 1 driving simulators’ challenge at the launch of NE1 Newcastle Motor Show.

The driving challenge was taken up by thousands of members of the public who flocked to Grey Street to enjoy the unique two-day motoring spectacular.

Communications at NE1 Ltd said: “The event had all the hallmarks for success - but it surpassed all our original expectations - we knew the combination of Grey Street’s architecture and its fantastic mix of leisure and retail businesses would provide the ideal backdrop for a luxury event of this sort, adding some of the world’s most spectacular cars into the mix delivered a unique event.

“The success of the motor show is very much a testament to the support received from the region’s motor dealers and private owners who really pulled out all of the stops to ensure the range and quality of cars on display were first class. Planning is already underway for next year’s event and we look forward to releasing details in the New Year.”

WINNER >> As part of the NE1 Newcastle Motor Show, Luxe magazine in association with NE1, ran a competition on Metro Radio to win a Luxe weekend.

The lucky winner was Rachael Buchanan from Newcastle and her prize was: • An Audi TT from Benfield Motors for the weekend • A weekend stay for two in the new Crowne Plaza hotel in Newcastle with dinner and two cocktails • £50 meal voucher for Sachins • £50 meal voucher for Peace & Loaf • His & Hers goody bag from Fenwick Newcastle plus £100 to spend in store • £100 intu Eldon Square gift card • Champagne Afternoon Tea for two at Hilton Newcastle-Gateshead

Left to right, Denise Tweedy from intu Eldon Square, Stephen Patterson from NE1, Amanda McBride from Crowne Plaza Newcastle, Matthew Rowe from Benfield, Steve Furnell from Metro Radio, Debi Coldwell from Luxe magazine, Karen Wight from Metro Radio and winner Rachael Buchanan

18

SEP/OCT15

F O O D

I S

A R T.

P R E S E R V E

I T.

In craftsmanship and performance, Sub-Zero is without rival. Its advanced technology keeps food fresher longer.

www.subzero-wolf.co.uk Living Kitchen Morpeth: Pol Kefton Kitchens, Unit 1 Coopies Field, Coopies Lane Industrial Estate, Morpeth NE61 6JT 01670 503869

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES LIGHT RELIEF A talking point if ever there was one. We love the lightbulb-moment duck-leg design which brings to mind the mini-skirted swinging 60s. ÂŁ1,280. www.sarahbowenlighting.co.uk

20

SEP/OCT15

6 Kingston Court, Kingston Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne. NE3 2FP. | 0191 285 7179 | www.petertyson.co.uk

Installing the finest home entertainment since 1966

REAL DEAL

His reign after Spain

22

SEP/OCT15

REAL DEAL

Charismatic Spaniard Aitor Karanka swapped Madrid for Middlesbrough to become Boro’s first foreign manager. The sunshine he misses but the warmth of a North East welcome more than makes up for it. He talks tactics over tapas with Elysia Agnew

Aitor Karanka turns up for tapas in Teesside ready to talk tactics and trophies. He’s suitably turned out in the football-manager chic of neat Hugo Boss blazer, natty waistcoat, Breitling watch and healthy summer glow.

We’re in the very Brit-rustic Chadwicks Inn, Maltby, meeting ahead of the first home game of the season. A season he hopes will more than match the last when hopes of Premiership glory were heartbreakingly dashed for Boro fans in the Wembley play-offs.

His eye is on the Premiership prize, as are the expectations of many thousands of football fans, which is pressure to bear big style. Our chat comes the evening after a solid win at Oldham Athletic in the first round of the Capital One Cup. ‘Que Sera Sera’ springs to mind – is another trip to Wembley on the cards?

“I hope so,” he smiles.

“Last season was an amazing experience. Unfortunately we missed out on the reward but what we can say is that one day we played at Wembley.”

Our football-meets-life conversation takes place in the inn’s restaurant area where staff start arriving with drinks and tapas, all very sociable. Of course, it’s impossible not to talk football with Aitor, Middlesbrough’s first-ever foreign manager, who has propelled the team with an electrifying Spanish touch since his arrival on Teesside in 2013.

With his take on modern football, his ability to read opponents, and his spell as Jose Mourinho’s number two, the 42-year-old certainly knows how to win games. Aitor has emerged from the ‘Special One’s’ shadow (with an equally fine sense of style) to establish himself as a top coach here in the North East. With some new strikers on the teamsheet, Middlesbrough are flying high and are set to grab their goals in more ways than one this season. Aitor Karanka has his sights set on the Premier League. That is his goal, and Boro fans are aching for him to send that ball firmly into the back of the net.

Some say Madrid and Middlesbrough are worlds apart.

He begs to differ. “We’re very comfortable here. I am from the north of Spain and I see the same characteristics, the people are very similar. Honest people”

For Aitor, after a rollercoaster season, downtime this summer meant a trip to Madrid with his wife Ana, followed by a family trip to Miami with young son Ibai and daughter Nahia.

It was respite after one hellish season of highs and lows.

The chase for a Premier League promotion spot went like this – a head-to-head battle for that prestigious second place position, an exciting lead up to the play-off final at Wembley and the not so exciting reality of a 2-0

the moment I started work here. But I am originally from the north of Spain, the Basque country.”

His playing career and his life have been predominantly in his Spanish homeland. He played as a youth at his home club, Deportivo Alavés before moving to Athletic Bilbao to start his professional career. He moved to Real Madrid for five seasons where he made over 90 appearances. In 2002 he moved back to Athletic Bilbao before ending his playing career with a short stint in Colorado.

defeat to the since promoted Norwich City.

But the Boro boss did manage to unwind this summer, reflecting on a nearly-there season as he spent quality time with his family in various parts of the globe.

“This summer I was lucky,” he says.

“I had a holiday with my wife and with my kids. It was nice because the previous summer had been so difficult as I had to work all over, but this summer was much better.

“I spent some time with my wife in Madrid. Our house is in Madrid. Our friends are in Madrid – so it’s our city,” he adds.

Speaking about his personal and professional life in his ‘adopted city’ he says, “I moved to Madrid when I was 23 until I was 28 and then we came back when I was 32 until

He spent one season in the MLS (Major League Soccer), playing for the Colorado Rapids.

“We lived in Denver. Nahia, the little one, was six months old so it was a difficult experience for everybody, but we tried to do the same as we have done here. It was more difficult, but again, we tried to get to know the area. We adapted to the lifestyle that we were living out there and it was a really good experience, now we can remember that season well.”

As a classy and well-organised defender, aggression and intimidation was never part of his game plan.

Efficiency and the ability to pick out strengths and weaknesses in the opponent are what made Aitor such a >>

£1,500 Promoting great businesses in the North East

inc VAT

For three months’ PR support* *introductory package

Recognition PR offers a wide range of PR and digital marketing services to privately-owned businesses in the North East.

Our three months fixed price package costs £1,500 and is an ideal way for your business to see how our service can work for you.

t.01325 363436 www.recognitionpr.co.uk Terms & Conditions: This buys a short PR campaign over three months and includes a short web video (shot in one location). The time committed to the package is no higher than 18 hours. This package is charged to credit cards on the basis of 50% up front and 50% at the end of three months. Full terms & conditions available upon request.

SEP/OCT15

23

REAL DEAL respected defender in La Liga throughout his playing career; and it’s these exact traits that underpin his early managerial success at Middlesbrough.

Aitor and his young family are settling in a village on the outskirts of Teesside. And though some may say Madrid and Middlesbrough are worlds apart, Aitor begs to differ. “It may be different but it’s funny because all of us are very comfortable here. We have all settled in really well. My family and I are from the north of Spain and I think this part of the world has the same characteristics - the people are very similar.

“Honest people,” he adds. “I think it has made it a lot easier for us.”

Typically British, I ask about the weather, to which Aitor laughs, “That is the only thing that we miss – the sun.”

But being from the Basque Provinces, in northern Spain, he explains that the weather is not too much of a problem. He visits his family and friends in Spain whenever he gets a break from the fixture list, and welcomes relatives to the North East at every opportunity.

“My parents have been here two or three times. My parents-in-law, my friends, my sister, my brother, all of the family understand that it is important for us to get to know this place.

“The kids are more than happy. Ibai, my eldest, he’s enjoying it a lot. He’s a different kid. His grades are better here than in Spain so he’s really pleased.

“It was difficult for my youngest at first because of her English, but now she has settled, she has her friends and her school is amazing.”

“The main thing is that all of us are very happy here,” he adds.

As well as establishing himself as a top coach in this part of the world, Aitor has established a real sense of community and culture in the area as he continues to discover this country and most importantly, our northern delights.

He enjoys dining out in Yarm and lists his family-friendly favourites, which include Cena, Muse, and a trip out to Maltby to his best-loved restaurant, Chadwicks (where he will unwind for a family meal after our chat).

“I can’t go out too often because it is a very busy place but I do go out with my family occasionally to have dinner or lunch.”

He enjoys discovering the area when he gets the chance.

“I think it is important for everybody to live the same life as the people who are from here.

“As a family, we like to do touristy things. It’s a very good opportunity for us to get to know the area.

“We like to visit York and Whitby. We also like to try different restaurants in places such as Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

“The kids love getting to know this country and its style of living. It is important to us because sometimes you spend time in a place and you go back to your country and you don’t know any different.

“So for that reason, we are taking advantage of this area. We have trips to London, other cities, and to local places too.”

Flamingo Land? I joke, following a Twitter hype after he visited the North Yorkshire theme park with his family in May. He smiles: “Yes, the kids enjoyed it more than me but it was fun. We are really pleased here and that’s the reason I recently extended my contract to four years.”

“Football is about results,” he explains. “Sometimes you’re winning and sometimes you lose,” and to some, joining a new football club is simply part of the job. You do the job… you move on.

But for Aitor, Middlesbrough has very definitely become the ‘home team’. His family has settled down in this part of the

He is passionate – it’s in that Spanish blood. He is thriving in this area and determined to bring joy to its long-standing supporters, his colleagues, and his family

24

world and the recent extension of his contract is promising for Boro fans. He is here for the ride, the ups and downs, not only for the football club, but also for the area… and the people.

He is passionate – it’s in that Spanish blood. He is thriving in this area and determined to bring joy to its long-standing supporters, his colleagues, and his family.

“For me, the main thing and the thing that makes me go forward everyday is the support. Since I came here, I feel everyday that the people support me, support my family and support the football club.

“The people are very happy. They trust me, they have confidence and it motivates me.

“I feel very proud of the work here,” he adds.

“Sometimes you can feel the pressure when you have a lot of people behind you, but for me, the support is encouraging. I think the main thing for me last season was that everybody started to hear something about Boro.

Everyone knows who we are now, and we are going to make sure that continues.”

Aitor is very proud of Middlesbrough Football Club, you can tell by the way he talks about the club and its prospects.

Ultimately it is the beautiful game that brought Aitor Karanka to the North East.

But football aside, as we chat about the area, sharing our favourite places to eat, shop and discover, Aitor

explains how the North East has become a home from home for his family.

From the football club’s warm welcome and the support from the fans, to the friends made along the way and the local restaurants and businesses who have welcomed his family with open arms, Teesside is home.

“It’s not just the club, it’s the people… everything!”

“In the work, I say I don’t know how many times that I am in the best place I could be, with the best chairman, the best staff, and the best players. I have everything.

“But now it’s all about the club, the fans and the crowd.

We are all really pleased to be in the position that we are in, and we are looking forward to the new season.

“Everybody is excited, we have the right players. Last season we missed a little bit of experience, especially in the big moments.

“But now we have players with more experience and can be important this season.

“We have a good team, we have the best crowd and we have the best stadium so now it’s my work and we will keep going.”

This season, he says he will finish the job off. He will give the fans what they deserve. He will be the hero on Teesside.

The ‘home’ team.

And he will take Boro to that Promised Land – the Premier League.

SEP/OCT15

Handmade Kitchens & Furniture e n or e st ard rs G rio ey te dl in Bra nd at co n Se ope w

no

s

Beautifully handcrafted Kitchens & Bathrooms to last a lifetime.

1–7 Wellington Street, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE8 2AJ Tel 0191 477 6680 Email info@bridgewater-interiors.co.uk Bradley Gardens, Sled Lane, Wylam, Tyne & Wear NE41 8JH Tel 01661 852 176 Email info@bradley-gardens.co.uk www.bridgewater-interiors.co.uk

LUXE LIFE LUXE PEOPLE >> Close family and children go without saying. Peter Lawley, formerly of Dolce & Gabbana, has always been a great mentor to me. Close to home, Graham Henderson of Teesside University, Ray Mallon and Alastair Powell are good friends as is musician and academic Noel Dennis.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Venice. Alex and I went in April for the first time without the kids. It was like being boyfriend and girlfriend again, we had a different perspective. It was a brilliant place.

Loved the water taxis.

A long holiday > I don’t usually go away for more than a week at a time but I go away about four times and have a few long weekends away. I had a great holiday in the Maldives – lots of water sports, diving and catamaran sailing.

A treat > I’ve not been to New Zealand or Australia so I would like to go there. I like a weekend in New York, there’s nothing like that city.

STEVE COCHRANE As owner of Middlesbrough’s Psyche fashion and online empire, Steve is one of the key names in fashion and business in the North East. The designer haven celebrates more than years in business and his showpiece Linthorpe Road store has won scores of awards and industry accolades since it was first opened. A man of vision and proudly passionate about his home town, Steve was given an honorary doctorate from Teesside University and the Borough Award. He lives on the outskirts of Yarm with partner Alex and has two sons

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Seafood. I love all seafood. Crab, oysters, scallops.

I like chargrilled seabass at the Crathorne Arms.

Best wine > Red wine with seafood works for me! I like a Volnay or Malbec. I don’t drink a great deal but I like something really good – I’m a ‘start at the bottom of the list’ wine drinker.

I like quality.

Favourite restaurant > Antico Borge in Florence. It’s in the Piazza Spirito Santo and they do a great hot seafood platter with spider crabs, lobster, everything. Perfect.

Perfect weekend > I work every other Saturday in Psyche which is a day where I am not in the office but like to be on the shop floor seeing customers and staff and watch the shop in action.

I love that.

Friday evening when the week’s work is done I’ve got a switch off button – I head for David Lloyd’s for a game of squash, meet with friends and put the world to rights over a beer.

Saturdays if I am not working I will start the day with a swim and like pottering about, maybe go for a run or play squash.

We’ve got a jetty at the bottom of the garden so I might go out with the canoe. Saturday night it’s a nice meal and a relax.

Sunday night it’s ‘homework’ – I plan for the next week.

Best telly > I don’t watch that much. I hate the soaps. I might watch the news or a documentary. I could argue that the best telly was when I proposed to Alex on the roof of Psyche – on TV when the BBC 3 cameras came and filmed a series at Psyche! That was ten years ago and we still haven’t got married yet!

Best book > I have just read For Whom the Bell Tolls by Hemingway and am going to take on Homer’s Odyssey next.

I like to challenge myself.

Best sounds > I love jazz, Northern Soul and disco – my friend Noel Dennis’ jazz trio often plays at Psyche.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Well, Middlesbrough obviously! I hate Paris and I love Milan.

Favourite shop > I love Liberty in London because they buy in a cool way that is more like ‘curating’ their offer in a gallery style.

Luxe retail treat > I like going round shops noting their brands, merchandising, shopfits, taking pics and generally what’s going on – busman’s holiday! I hate tech and I love sports kit stores.

Best buy > Grant Anthem mountain bike – it has given me so much pleasure. Also I have a very indulgent Paul Smith Burton vapour lightweight carbon snowboard that is very fast and which cost a silly £1500. It’s black with a Paul Smith stripe on it and really puts a smile on my face.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Meeting Richard Branson and spending a good time in conversation was up there with the best!

Perfect party > It hasn’t happened yet – a marquee in the garden with everyone there chilling out – sounds like a wedding!

Best outfit > I’ve got an Atelier Scotch suit that is perfect. Very slim fitting in a nice blue. It’s one to wear when I’m toned as it is a really tailored shape – no place for paunch. I wear it with no socks and Paul Smith brogues.

I bought a Dries van Noten black leather jacket 20 years ago for £1,000 which was a fortune… but it is still fantastic, perfect nappa leather. One of those, ‘price per wear’ investments.

Dinner date > Alex of course – but in another life, Natalie Imbruglia YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Psyche. I always love coming to work; I love all aspects of this business.

26

SEP/OCT15

Live the life of luxury... on your doorstep

Rockliffe Hall is synonymous with award-winning food, championship golf and exceptional spa experiences all within the most luxurious surroundings. And, with a brand new spa garden complete with outdoor hydrotherapy pool, sauna and sumptuous loungers there has never been a better time to visit. Luxury breaks available from ÂŁ225.

To find out more or make a booking please call 01325 729999 or email enquiries@rockliffehall.com

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

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Stepping out Make a grand entrance every day - even if it’s just padding down to make your morning cuppa in the kitchen. Tread softly on lovely rich wood floors and furniture made specially to suit.

Staircase from £1995. www.awoodidea.com

28

SEP/OCT15

New Showroom!

Open 17th September 90,000 sq ft in 5 acres Sunderland Echo House, Pennywell Just off the A19 exit A183

“Why we are bigger & better” No one offers you more choice & better value, with 4 enormous showrooms covering the North East.

These allow you the opportunity to touch feel and get into your choice of bathroom or kitchen before you buy it.

With a team of talented designers to offer advice and FREE computer planning & design, plus installation support on a larger project, you are sure to achieve your dream bathroom or kitchen.

Added to this are over 25 leading manufacturers & distributors ranges to make sure there is always something to suit every pocket or requirement.

This extensive selection is constantly being updated and added to, there is always something upd new at Tecaz to inspire your imagination.

But equally important to the selection is the fantastic prices on offer, with discounts of up to 70% off the retail price!

Plus selected kitchens have FREE granite or Silestone worktops!

Norham Road, North Shields, NE29 7TN. Tel: 0191 2576511 Ryhope Street, Ryhope, Sunderland, SR2 0AB. Tel: 0191 5238164 Portrack Lane, Stockton-on Tees TS18 2HG. Tel: 01642 670 100 Tecaz Echo house, Pennywell Ind Estate SR4 9EN. Tel: 0191 257 6511

Tecaz www.tecaz.com

Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 10am - 4pm

eat

MARKET TRAWL

Word on the street

The Grainger Market in Newcastle offers up a platter of delicious street food offerings. And with its 150th anniversary this month, and a series of events planned to mark the occasion, we savours the many flavours A smorgasbord of tasty treats is on offer to visitors these days to the historic listed Grainger Market in Newcastle.

Amongst the butchers, bakers, delis, fishmongers and greengrocers, there’s a whole new world of fantastic street food experiences to uncover on a journey of discovery...

In fact, a few visits to the market’s Weigh House may well be in order after all the snacking!

The market, an institution in the city, celebrates its 150th anniversary this month and a series of events are planned to link in with British Food Fortnight, which kicks off September 19.

Nan Bei Dumpling and Tea Bar is one such foodie gem, located in alley 2. It’s run by Maggie - who owns the Quay Ingredient café with husband chef, Simon Snowball, on the Quayside - and her business partner.

The popular Chinese dumplings takeaway opened at the end of last year and sells a variety of freshly-made dumplings, soups and teas.

Maggie says: “It’s a very homely dish. Every child would learn how to make these at home. Every street corner in China has food like this.”

Sample assorted dumplings, fresh from the steamer, at six for £3.50. Fillings include chilli beef and sweet carrots, pork and cabbage, pork and celery, mushroom and egg, and white fish containing haddock, prawns, spring onion and eggs. All are light, easily digestible and delicious.

Ingredients are sourced locally from the market, the fish from Lindsay’s and the veg from Hutchinson’s.

The world’s your oyster when you follow your nose to the Lindsay’s To Go/oyster bar in alley 1. Perch at the counter and savour the delicate fishy flavours as you crack open a few Cumbrae oysters (opened on request), priced at £1.25 each.

Shoppers can buy fresh fish from Lindsay’s fishmongers,

30

established in 1936, directly across the aisle, and have their fish delicacies cooked there and then at Lindsay’s To Go. Popular choices on the shortest of food mile journeys are said to be the salmon and king prawns.

A bon appetit is guaranteed on a visit to French Oven, the independent artisan bakery, in arcade 27, which is known region-wide for its quality breads, cakes, pies, pasties, scones and croissants.

Manager Vanessa Salvaing explains: “Everything is freshly baked. The bread is the best-seller, spelt loaf is very popular, as well as savoury specialities like black pudding loaves. And then we have the macarons and brownies…

“Our reputation has grown over the years and we now have reviews on Trip Advisor.”

For a sweet finale a trip to Pet Lamb Patisserie in arcade 19 is recommended. The store looks terrific from the outside, offering a glimpse of the sweet treats on sale inside, including cupcakes, layer cakes, brownies and gluten-free cakes. They also sells coffees, teas and hot chocolate.

Tempted by lemon meringue, red velvet or salted caramel cupcakes, at £1.75 each or four for £5.50? Or maybe strawberry and pistachio brownies, priced at £2 each, or banoffee variety take your fancy?

Keeping the region’s sweet tooth satisfied are Katie Deacon and Kay Winder, the business partners behind the venture.

Katie says: “We could see there was a niche for brownies and big chunks of cake. We used to bake all the time at home as a hobby.

“We thought why not try to sell them and it grew from there.”

The shop has been open for three years. “Brownies are the best-sellers by a country mile. Everything is made on site in the ovens here.”

Grainger Market, Grainger Street, Newcastle, NE1 5JQ. Details of anniversary events: www.graingermarket.org.uk

SEP/OCT15

PRETTY PLATES

Eat Seasonal WITH ANDREW WILKINSON OF ARTISAN

An abundance of flavours, textures and seasonal ingredients play out for a gentle introduction to the new food season

Transitioning from one season to the next can be a tricky affair in the kitchen, especially when you’re looking to make the most of those fresh ingredients available on your doorstep.

This edition, I am sharing with you a lamb recipe which, for me, marks the end of summer. It’s a chance to spotlight lamb before we make way for seasonal produce such as game. The earthy girolles and creamy gratin dauphinoise potatoes perfectly complement the richness of the meat and lamb jus in this dish, creating a wholesome plate of flavours that perfectly bids farewell to what feels like a short-lived summer.

Admittedly, lamb rump is often an underrated cut of meat, but I prefer this to the loin or rack, as I think it has the most flavour and it makes the perfect portion size. As for lamb belly, this offers the perfect balance of meat and fat, combining to create a rich flavour and a succulent glazed finish.

As always, you can join us at our monthly seasonal showcase events to see the finest locally sourced ingredients, such as lamb, hare and beef, take centre stage in dishes just like this one.

Rump and glazed belly of lamb with braised lettuce, peas and girolles Ingredients 4 lamb rumps (250g per portion) 2 lamb bellies – boned and rolled 500g fresh peas 200g girolle mushrooms 8 Albert Bartlett potatoes 2 baby gem lettuces 500ml double cream 5 garlic cloves Sprigs of thyme White peppercorns Lamb jus 800ml chicken stock Carrot, onion and a stick of celery 200ml white wine 5 fresh tomatoes 50g unsalted butter 4 baby grelot onions

Method FOR THE LAMB BELLY Season the lamb belly and add to a hot pan with oil. Seal the meat (which should take around 10 minutes).

Dice the carrot, onion and celery.

Once the lamb belly is golden, transfer to a plate and add the vegetables to the pan.

SEP/OCT15

Sweat the vegetables down for 5-10 minutes, add a bay leaf, peppercorn and thyme.

Chop 4 tomatoes and add into the pan before pouring in the white wine. Next reduce the mix.

Add the lamb belly back into the pan and pour the chicken stock over the meat. At this point you can also add any spare lamb bones.

Bring to a simmer and skim the fat off the top and then put it in the oven for two and a half hours at 130C.

FOR THE LAMB RUMP Marinate the lamb rump with a tablespoon of oil, a sprig of thyme, garlic and rosemary – leave for 30 minutes or ideally, overnight.

Lightly score the lamb rumps, remove any sinew and keep the skin on.

Cook the lamb rumps with a touch of lamb fat or vegetable oil, skin side down, until caramelised.

Add butter paper to the pan and place the lamb skin side down, then cook in the oven for 8-9 minutes at 190C. Add a knob of butter, rosemary, thyme and

garlic to the pan and baste the lamb.

Leave to rest for 12 minutes on a wire rack.

The lamb should be warm not piping hot when served.

Next, cut the lamb belly into slices and add to a pan with the lamb sauce.

Bring the pan to a simmer and place in the oven for 6-7 minutes, keep basting to ensure the lamb belly is sticky and glazed.

FOR THE GRATIN DAUPHINOISE POTATOES Wash and peel the potatoes, then thinly slice so they are a few mm thick.

Add the double cream to a pan with peppercorns, a bay leaf, thyme and thinly sliced garlic. Simmer and infuse for 10 minutes.

Add a layer of potatoes, salt and pepper and top with the cream; repeat until the mix is at the top of the dish.

Place on a bain marie - cook in the oven at 150 C for 45 minutes until you can easily pierce with a knife.

FOR THE PEA PUREE To create the pea puree, add peas to a small

pan of boiling, salted water and cook until tender. Transfer the pea stock to a liquidiser and add in a knob of butter to create a shiny, velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper.

Pass the mixture through a chinois and put to one side to keep warm.

FOR THE LETTUCE AND GIROLLES Cut an onion in half and place the cut-side down in the pan with butter. Remove the outer leaves from the baby gem lettuces and add to the same pan. Add a tablespoon of water and thyme, then cook for 8 mins. Take the onion and lettuces out of the pan and keep warm.

Add girolles to the emulsion in the pan along with fresh, blanched peas.

TO ASSEMBLE Smear a dollop of the pea puree; then place the lamb belly on the plate with the girolles, peas, onion and lettuce to one side.

Finish with a thickly cut slice of the lamb rump on top and sauce. Serve the gratin dauphinoise potatoes in the dish used while cooking.

31

FOOD TRAIL

Chef’s table

with James Close, head chef at the region’s only Michelin star restaurant, The Raby Hunt, Summerhouse

It’s harvest time at the Raby Hunt as tables groan with late-summer goodness.

The end of summer brings with it some good stuff from garden, moorland and hedgerow so we’re happy people here.

We’re very proud of a dish that lives up to its name. ‘Walled Garden 2015’ is a signature dish containing a mighty 40 different vegetables that I’ve been working on with veg-growing legend Ken Holland who is now sowing seeds of success in a major walled garden enterprise in Northumberland.

The dish is really exciting, a piece of theatre in itself, arriving at the table on plates specially-made for us in Belgium – they are raised in height so it looks as though the salad is still growing.

The ingredients include vegetables obviously but variations on them in the form of micro-veg, herbs, herb oils, purees etc.

Another new dish features lovely varieties of tomato that are in season at the minute. We have nine variations of tomato in different forms with black olive oil, ewes’ curd and caviar in the mix.

It is also the game season. Not everyone is happy to see grouse on the menu but I think it is something we should be proud of – this is a great part of the world for grouse.

We’ve been serving it since the glorious 12th. I serve it with kale and a ragu of the offal and girolles and with the leg slow-cooked.

PLEASURES >> Food and golf are the non-human loves of my life so I’ve been indulging in both over the summer.

A highlight has been a stay at Cameron House on Loch Lomond where I managed to play some golf as well as eat at Martin Wishart’s restaurant.

Stand-out dishes on his menu were bavette of beef with horseradish foam and onions and a langoustine dish with peppers.

While we were on the west coast, we took a trip to a restaurant

BIB GOURMAND WITH HARRIETT CLOSE >> It’s the time of year when I am officially allowed to get covered in mud. Daddy calls it foraging – I call it fun. I scamper in the damp grass picking mushroomy things that daddy sometimes ends up cooking for me. He is an expert and has a special knife and everything.

If we fill our baskets I get to eat my favourite thing for tea – pasta with mushrooms.

Yum. I have to specially not tell anyone where our foraging wood is though.

>> Top, Inver on Loch Fyne, below Timberyard, Edinburgh called Inver on Loch Fyne. It is just getting on the radar of the food critics and is simply the best place I have eaten this year.

The natural setting is fantastic and the food plays this out – ingredients from the land, sea and shore. Lunch might be a simple, fresh seafood from the waters

TAKE A TRIP >> Had a nice lunch at The Black Swan at Oldstead near York recently, a consistently good place run by brothers Tommy and James Banks.

They bought a farm near the pub and now are getting to grips with growing their own produce and rearing animals on it for the restaurant, which is a brilliant thing.

I love this notion of self-sufficiency – and on a far more gentle scale we’ve started doing it at Raby Hunt where I am the proud owner of the Urban Cultivator.

It might look like a fridge (yes, it does) but it is where you can grow everything from peashoots to herbs and microveg with your own light source.

It’s a Canadian product and we got it from Continental Chef Supplies in Peterlee. It’s our way of being able to have our own fresh food supplies on tap. We’ve got Ryan in charge of the green-fingered operation!

32

outside, their own sourdough bread and homemade butter.

Dinner is a fixed, four-course menu of modern, creative Scottish cooking and there’s a bar menu with stuff like super-fresh oysters, crab, langoustines and native meat and game in season.

I was really wowed by the place, definitely my find of the year. I nibbled on peas in their pod and fantastic corn on the cob with roasted chilli and delicious chicken wings.

Suggest you make a visit!

Still in Scotland, I was in Edinburgh where I found Timberyard, which I reckon will be getting a Michelin star this year.

This is another top find – some have described the place as ‘Nordic-Scottish’, my money’s on it for a star. It’s my latest best place in Edinburgh, a food favourite always.

Natural flavours, great produce; a standout dish was quail with variations of beetroot and grirolles. Also rave-worthy was halibut with lobster and fennel.

FOOD HERO >> At Timberyard the halibut was from Gigha Halibut, a great little supplier.

Halibut is from a marine hatchery at Otter Ferry on Loch Fyne and the Isle of Gigha, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean is a good site for farming the fish with consistent quality and the sustainable credentials.

Places like Scott’s, Mayfair and The Waterside use halibut from here on their menus.

You can buy smoked halibut online from the site and there are ideas for recipes to try. www.gighahalibut.co.uk

TIME OFF >> You know I spend a lot of time on the Northumberland coast. When not eating kippers, a game of golf is my thing – these are my top three courses: 3 Foxton Hall 2 Bamburgh Castle 1 Goswick – my favourite

SEP/OCT15

TRY A TASTE

Truly scrumptious Tackle some fabulous tastes at a dazzling food festival which promises a heck of a kick for foodies Bakeoffs, baristas, burgers and breweries. Ticking all the boxes a food lover could possibly want.

The delightfully-sounding Taste&Tackle Scrumptious Food Festival will deliver a dazzling line-up of treats for food lovers in a unique day-long food festival to coincide with the Rugby World Cup in Newcastle on October 1.

A marquee at the Fanzone near St James’ Park will be the venue for a food frenzy that will see action throughout the day from suppliers, chefs, producers and players.

Meet the Shreddies’ Knitting Nana as you sip on some Yorkshire Tea. See what the fishing boats bring in from Amble harbour and

watch chefs work their seafood magic with inspiring cookery demonstrations.

Let the little ones work up a hunger on the Fun Island with penalty shoot-outs and fitness circuits.

Then watch the experts in action with skilful sugarcraft and baking demos worthy of those Bake-off folks.

During the day the region’s best young chefs will be competing for the NECTA Young Chef of the Year accolade – which promises to be every bit as exciting as an episode of MasterChef as they race against the clock to create showpiece dishes.

But alongside these demonstrations you’ll also be able to sample some of the best food offerings from the region’s producers large and small.

Not only will you be able to wake up and smell the coffee you’ll be able to sample it and see the barista’s flash their art.

Mixologists will be there too shaking up cocktails to sample and talented artisan suppliers will be adding their flavour with tangy chutneys and tempting traybakes.

There will be plenty of fun with a rugby theme and an emphasis on healthy eating and inspiring ideas for everything from family suppers to gourmet dinners. You might even find yourself mingling with some familiar faces from the worlds of football and rugby celebrating the event.

Tickets for the event are free but you will need to register.

Email: janbell@bidvest.co.uk

SCRUMPTIOUS FOOD FESTIVAL

Bidvest North East is buzzing with excitement.

The Rugby World Cup marquee provides the perfect back drop for our Taste & Try Scrumptious Food Festival.

This thrilling venue in the heart of Newcastle is here for this year only!

SEP/OCT15

And we want you to be a part of what will be our biggest and best catering exhibition ever on Thursday 1st October from 12noon until 7pm.

Contact janbell@bidvest.co.uk for details.

33

GOODNESS ME!

Veg patch

UPCOMING EVENTS @ WIDEHAUGH HOUSE ANNUAL BULB SALE >> FRI 2ND & SAT 3RD OCTOBER

WITH KAREN PHILLIPS

Sunshine and showers make for good growing weather and give you an indication of the growth you’d achieve if you actually spent time irrigating each year!

RICH PICKINGS >> Apples: Bumper crops of dessert and cooking apples are being consumed, stored, frozen or preserved. Apples make the best base for savoury jellies as they take on other flavours well; our best seller is ‘Sweet Geranium’ Jelly, good with game and pâté.

Hazelnuts: When people ask what I’ll miss most when we move from this garden it is the fruit trees that I planted which, after several years, are just starting to bear large crops. Cobnuts are a great small tree: ornamental enough for a small garden when adorned with catkins from NovemberFebruary and the provider of large crops of hazelnuts just waiting to be made into hazelnut praline, liqueur or toasted to add bite to a winter salad.

Figs: I wax lyrical about having a greenhouse since it greatly extends the growing season up North, but the best bit is being able to grow fig varieties other than the hardiest (but not the best tasting) ‘Brown Turkey’.

My favourite is ‘Bourjasotte Grises’: a syrupy, burgundy fig but I shall soon be purchasing a white fig such as ‘White Marseilles’ or ‘Goutte d’Or’: the translation of its name as ‘Taste of Gold’ says it all!

Horseradish: Our most popular relish of beetroot and horseradish has to be made during the tomato season since the base is oven roasted tomatoes but this rarely coincides with the start of the horseradish season so prices such as £70 for a kilo of horseradish are hard to stomach! Too easy to grow and devilishly difficult to get rid of if planted in the wrong place the best methods are in some rough grass so you can mow around it and keep it in check or better still in an old dustbin, but ensure it is well watered throughout the growing season.

THE ORCHARD & THE NUTTERY >> THURS 22ND OCTOBER Why plant an orchard or a nuttery? Ever picked a rosy red apple straight off the tree in July or bit into an apple that tastes like a pineapple? Damson gin, cherry brandy, greengage jam, pickled walnuts or Mrs Moffat’s apple and ginger chutney in a cheese and pickle sandwich are just a few of the reasons why it’s essential to plant fruit trees.

Even the smallest gardens can accommodate several different fruit trees by using dwarfing rootstocks and trained tree forms.

Time: 10am-3.30pm. Includes morning coffee and 2 course lunch. £80. and span home for the overwintering of geraniums and other tender plants.

JOBS OUTSIDE >> Broad Beans’ Aquadulce Claudia’ and garlic bulbs can be planted from November onwards.

Harvest any root crops before the weather turns and soil temperatures become frozen.

Yes, parsnips do taste sweeter after a frost, but there is a fine line between that and having them remain frozen in the ground whilst you cook Sunday dinner!

Now is time to take stock of the allotment/ veg garden and put back into the soil what has been taken out. If you haven’t limed your soil in four years then supplies of calcium - the building block of cell walls will be low. Liming the area where brassicas are to be planted and undertaking a four year rotation keeps the calcium levels within the whole plot replenished. Save manuring the plot till spring since applying lime and manure causes a reaction, releasing ammonia into the atmosphere; thereby losing the nitrogen from the manure.

CREATE A CLAMP >>

JOBS IN THE GREENHOUSE >> We’ll be picking our cherry ‘Sungold’ tomatoes until December; the last few can be picked green and ripened in a drawer with a banana. The chillies can be harvested and dried for use over the coming year; strings of chillies look wonderful drying in the house – just remember not to re-lick the end of the thread if the needle comes adrift!

Now is a good time to pot up some roots of mint and pop inside to ensure a supply over winter. A good clean up of debris in the greenhouse will eradicate hiding places for overwintering insects and provide a spick

34

Spend a relaxing morning over coffee and cake at Widehaugh House whilst choosing which beautiful bulbs will adorn your garden this spring: will it be stripy tulips, delicate narcissi or towering alliums. Planting advice on bulb choice and colour combinations is readily available.

Time: 9.30am – 1pm.

Email info@widehaughhouse.co.uk for further details.

So you’ve had a bumper harvest as a result of the monsoon summer and, unless you fancy standing over a steaming pan and blanching vegetables for England, then look to our Victorian ancestors and build a clamp: an insulated heap of root vegetable; useful if you have large crops and no frost-free shed/cellar to store in.

Put down a thick layer of 20cm of sand.

Stack the roots, largest at the bottom, in a pile with sloping sides.

Blanket the whole pile with 20cm layer of straw and then 15cm layer of soil.

Unearth the veg when you need them and cover up the remaining crop.

TOP TEN DESERT ISLANDS SEEDS >> Now it’s easy to get carried away with the seed catalogues and buy seed that would feed the whole street so, in an effort to whittle down the four overflowing seed boxes that I possess, what would I grow if I was limited to only 10 varieties of seed?

Tomatillo: hard to come by unless you’re part of a veg box scheme ‘down South’, these are the one taste I yearn for each summer; plants fruit prolifically as long as well-watered and a single fruit can be left to dry to provide enough seed for the following year.

‘Sungold’ tomatoes: these super-sweet yellow cherry tomatoes have such a thin skin that they split when picking – beautiful on the plate and even more in the mouth!

Broad Bean ‘Aquadulce Claudia’: planted in November these don’t succumb to black fly and enable one job to be completed well before the manic rush of spring.

Purple Mangetout: This crop is as pretty in the plot as on the plate: delicious early crops of pea tips followed by flowers like sweetpeas, and finally beautiful purple mangetout.

‘Lemon Drop’ chillies: a long yellow chilli with great lingering heat; perfect for surprising friends who think hot chillies only come in red!

‘Deer’s Tongue’ lettuce: the darkest red/black lettuce that I have come across; adds interest to any salad plate.

Alpine strawberries: one pack will provide a wealth of plants that produce shining red jewels over a much longer season than large strawberries; with the use of a dehydrator the expensive cereals with dried strawberries can be created a fraction of the cost.

Rainbow Swiss Chard: with leaves that can be used small as a substitute for spinach and stems that can be blanched and fried – this is a prolific crop that withstands all that winter has to throw at it whilst adding colour to the plot.

‘Tom Thumb’ Lettuce: succession sow for quick crops of crispy little gem lettuce.

Pak choi: for a ready supply of crisp stems and leaves for stir-fries this super speedy crop is ready for harvesting a mere 6 weeks from sowing.

LOOKING AHEAD >> Next issue we’ll be raving about radicchios, ordering fleeces for the garden, and making our wish list of gardening tools for Santa.

BREAD >> PART 2 FRI 23RD OCTOBER In response to those who attended bread basics and wanted more! Join us on this one-day workshop and learn how to make pretzels, crusty baguettes, delicious doughnuts, buckwheat blinis and tarte flambee. Depart with recipes and your own warm, hand-made breads.

Time: 9.30am-3.30pm. Includes morning coffee and refreshments and a 2-course lunch £95.

EXOTIC CANAPES >> TUES 24TH NOVEMBER Join chef Andy Snell as he tantalises tastebuds with a demo of his exotic canapés: not a sausage roll in sight!

Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm. £35

SIMPLY CHRISTMAS >> FRI 27TH 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 mince pies, and assess the merits of a range of Christmas cocktails. Depart with your bespoke Christmas pudding, jars of mincemeat and recipes for a stress-free Christmas.

Time: 10am-3.30pm. Morning coffee and cakes and 2-course lunch included. £95.

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING >> 1ST & 10TH DECEMBER Get into the festive spirit with this full day workshop on making your own Christmas Wreath with Hannah The Wildflower Florist.

Time: 10am-4pm. £95

CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP! >> THURS 3RD DECEMBER Take the stress out of Christmas with this half day workshop on gift wrapping techniques.

Time: 9.30am-12.30pm. £35.

www.widehaughhouse.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

NEWCASTLE GRAINGER MARKET

he Grainger Market is a traditional covered market in the heart of Newcastle.

Opened in 1835, situated in the Grainger Town area of the city in a purpose-built, elegant and classically styled Grade I listed building.

T

The market was a key part in the redevelopment of Newcastle by the developer Richard Grainger and his architect John Dobson. Richard Grainger was said to “have found Newcastle of bricks and timber and left it in stone, stone that still stands today”.

Today the Market is bright, light and full of quality traders. Alongside craft stalls, mini bazaars, jewelers and florists, you can find high quality butchers, artisan

bakers, green grocers as well as street food traders, coffee shops and café’s literally something for everyone.

In the events space within the Market you can find monthly Art and Craft Fairs, vintage fairs and during school holidays free entertainment for the children every Wednesday.

Hidden within the market (alley 3) is “Marks and Spencer Original Penny Bazaar”, the world’s oldest and smallest Marks & Spencer store which opened in 1895.

As the Market Celebrates its 180th Birthday in October this year you can also expect a varied calendar of special events throughout October.

PHONE: 0191 211 5542 EMAIL: markets@newcastle.gov.uk www.newcastle.gov.uk/markets www.twitter.com/Nclmarkets

SEP/OCT15

35

FORAGE FOR THIS

Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

As we start leaving behind the summer, barbecues and ice cream, we become more and more excited for indulging ourselves in hot soups and delicious desserts, so I thought I’d give you something to tantalise those tastebuds ready for autumn…

Textures of Black Forest >> Serves 4 FOR THE CAKE Ingredients 340g/12oz golden caster sugar 340g/12oz unsalted butter 6 eggs 240g/8 1/2oz self-raising flour, sifted 100g/3 1/2oz cocoa

Method Preheat the oven to 170C/325F/Gas 3.

Lightly butter a 20cm (8in) loose-bottomed cake tin then dust with a little plain flour and shake off any excess. Line the tin with greaseproof paper.

Place butter and sugar in a bowl and whisk until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time then fold in the flour and the cocoa powder.

Spoon the mixture into the prepared cake tin, smooth the surface with a knife and bake in the pre-heated oven for 1 hour - 1 hour 45 minutes until firm and springy. To test if the cake is done, insert a clean

skewer into the middle of the cake - if it comes out clean then the cake is ready.

Remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tin for five minutes before turning out onto a wire rack.

Mix chocolate until smooth and shiny, pour into a tub to set for at least 1 hour.

FOR THE CHOCOLATE CRÈME Ingredients

MERINGUE Ingredients

100g milk 150g cream 30g egg yolk 50g sugar 130g dark chocolate 70% coca

100g egg whites 200g caster sugar

Method Add milk and cream to a mixing bowl and gently stir.

Mix the egg yolk and sugar together in a separate bowl.

Pour the milk and cream mix into the egg mix and stir.

Return to the pan and heat to 82c or until the mixture coats the back of the spoon

CRUSHED PISTACHIOS 50g whole raw pistachios, chopped roughly

Method Whip up egg whites until soft peaks and shower in the sugar.

Whisk until thick and smooth.

If it’s good it should hold a point or turn it upside down to test.

Pipe into desired shape.

Bake at 125c for one hour and leave to cool.

Assemble Assemble as shown in picture, add fresh cherries to garnish and enjoy.

Dave is head chef and business partner at Peace&Loaf, 217 Jesmond Road, Newcastle, NE2 1LA. Tel: 0191 2815222 www.peaceandloaf.co.uk

36

SEP/OCT15

SUNSHINE TREATS

The bee’s knees

Afternoon tea is definitely the new ladies’ lunch and a cool spot to take tea in style is The Coach House at Middleton Lodge. So we did

Well-behaved bees were indulging in a feast of their own over the liveliest lavender pots pungent and purple in the afternoon sun.

We all know you can’t plan for much in the British summer but the sunshine gods made merry for a tasting session to say hello to the newly-launched afternoon tea offering at The Coach House in Middleton Lodge near Darlington.

The herb-filled courtyard as well as the bees hummed in the summer haze as chilled bottles of iconic Laurent Perrier Rose raised a glass to the fine tradition of afternoon tea.

We can’t get enough of it.

That this is the new ladies’ lunch was so very evident – tables were packed with stylish yummy mummies, gathered girls and family groups taking in the tiers of sweet and savoury from their pastel-painted tables and chairs.

It’s an elegant, manageable feast is afternoon tea. Lingering, unhurried, varied and come-again.

The Coach House setting is pretty-much perfect. The honey-coloured stone the colour of the scones on the plate. We dip into thick luscious cream the same shade as the walls inside. It’s not deliberate but somehow it all blends in for a relaxing vibe.

After our courtyard glass of LPR with its lovely berryish flavours and bold summery bouquet, the tiered plates of afternoon tea are brought to the Coach House lounge area, set out informally on low tables alongside slouchy, deep sofas with more

of those comforting colours.

With afternoon tea there is the theatre of the tiered stands apparently invented as the solution to the small tables of a Victorian tea-room.

There is always the ‘ooh aah’ moment when the tiers arrive and you suss out the ‘treat’ that you’re going to leave until last…

Much to play for in that respect. It’s a gasp-worthy visual delight. There are cakes that fall into the ‘comfy’ category – the textbook fruit scones, light and fluffy, indulged with thick cream and strawberry jam. The Bakewell cakes with their morello cherry on top and soft almondy kick. Mini lemon meringue pies have a lovely sharp flavour and the softness of a chewy, not snappy, Italian meringue on the top.

Our elegant savoury sandwiches are made with the softest white bread and nutty brown. Cheese sandwiches are made from a gutsy cheddar that can take the sweet, homemade chutney perfectly. Ham and mustard, teatime-perfect egg and elegant smoked salmon complete a perfect platter.

In the kitchen the skilful team headed up by head chef Gareth Rayner are patisserie perfect. The layered chocolate opera cake with its edible gold finish is elegant, light, and well, just dreamy.

And nestling in its little glass jar, is a deconstructed strawberry cheesecake which delivers the sweetest punch with a vanilla panna cotta base, topped with macerated strawberries and a crunchy biscuit topping.

My ‘save ’til last’. Luscious and summerperfect. The range of drinks alongside can also include summery lemon and gingery

tea, English favourites or Lonton Coffee’s fresh Blue Monday blend, which I liked a lot.

The reviving Mad Hatter tea blend promises to ‘pep’ you up.

“Better than the Ritz”, said one of our number. She’d been there for a birthday recently and rated this offering higher in terms of ambience and quality of food, so there you have it. Our best-kept secret.

The country garden setting in sunshine is lovely and the Coach House has new treatment rooms so you can have your lavender and peppermint as a body treatment then bask in its real-life garden version afterwards. Likewise a Yorkshire Rose Ritual treatment is to be enjoyed before or after some garden relaxation. The blissful Secret Garden Escape is a 2 1/2-hour treat with sugar scrub, herbal bag body massage and mini-facial.

The mini-spa area adjoins the gardens and Coach House lounge so it’s the perfect ‘zone’

SEP/OCT15

for afternoon treats, treatments and general wind-down. Products are by REN and VOYA, all very natural and organic in keeping with the outside space and restful interiors. There are some very lovely candles and body products on sale too. You leave with senses satisfied in every way.

Afternoon Tea at The Coach House is £15 or £28 with a glass of Laurent Perrier.

Body treatments from £50, signature rituals £130-£150.

The Coach House celebrates its first birthday with a tasting evening on October 1st with live music, prosecco on arrival, five-course taster menu including cheeseboard and live music with singer and acoustic guitarist David Ball. £75pp.

To book call 01325 377977/01325 377071 or info@middletonlodge.co.uk www.middletonlodge.co.uk

37

SHELLING OUT

Masterclass WITH TERRY LAYBOURNE

Few things rival the pleasures of a plate of scallops, a simple, natural feast. Let them caramelise in butter before serving, then relish their unique sweet flavour

Diver Scallops SERVES 4 >>

12 6tbls

1 50g 175g

Diver scallops Olive oil Salt Pinch pepper Lemon Chopped parsley Butter

1 Scrub the scallop shells under cold running water with an abrasive brush

5 Remove the muscle then quickly rinse the scallop in cold water to remove any sand or grit

38

2 Using an oyster knife or spoon, slip flush against the flat side of the shell to free the scallop carefully making sure no cuts are made to the meat. Reserve 4 nice shells and clean thoroughly

3 Discard the black digestive gland & intestine

4 Separate the skirt from the scallop flesh

6 To cook the scallops; Heat a little olive oil in a non stick frying pan, season the scallops and cook for 20-30 seconds depending upon their thickness. Turn them and quickly add the butter allowing it to toast a little before finishing with lemon juice, chopped parsley and a little Maldon sea salt

7 Allow the scallops to rest briefly before placing into the cleaned scallop shell then drizzle with the cooking butter and juices

SEP/OCT15

XXXXXXXX

SEP/OCT15

39

FIELDS OF GOLD

INTO THE WOODS WITH JUST A HINT OF RELUCTANCE WE SAY GOODBYE TO THE STRAPPY SKIMPINESS OF SUMMER AND DELVE INTO AUTUMN’S DISTINCTIVE, LUSCIOUS LAYERS...

Vivienne Westwood Coat, Anglo £599. Vivienne Westwood Poncho, Anglo £179, Fenwick

40

SEP/OCT15

N E W S E A S O N F O R H E R N O W AVA I L A B L E

T H E U K ’S P R E M I E R R E TA I L D E ST I N AT I O N OV ER POLO RALPH LAUREN

ARMANI

1 50 DESIG NER BRANDS BARBOUR

TED BAKER

I NC LU D I NG :

MICHAEL KORS

FRENCH CO NNECTI O N

other brands include Moda in Pelle, Religion, Tommy Hilfiger, Lulu Guinness, Juicy Couture and Coach

1 75 -187 LIN THORP E ROAD MID D LESBROUGH TS1 4AG

+44 (0) 1642 888333

JO UL ES

S HOP ONL INE AT PSYCHE .CO.UK

F R E E N E X T W O R K I N G D AY D E L I V E R Y O N AW 1 5 SHOP WITH OUR BRAND NEW APP

FIELDS OF GOLD

Yest Oclay Treggings £34.95. Pashmina Burnt Orange Scarf £30. Sandwich Essentials Vest £19.

Maria Bellentani Jacket £120. Vera Pelle Orange Bag £39, Cobblestone.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Paul Smith Hat, £125, Paul Smith Paul X Jacket £395. Paul Smith Long Sleeve Top £99. Paul Smith Jeans £125. Mulberry Lily Bag £750, all Fenwick

42

SEP/OCT15

FIELDS OF GOLD

Ralph Lauren Polo Jeans £110.

Burberry Mac £1095.

Burberry Cape £525, Fenwick

Burberry Burba Coat, Red £650.

Sportmax Smax Sweater £350, Fenwick

44

SEP/OCT15

y

LUXURY • STYLE • UNRIVALLED CHOICE

We have an amazing choice from jewellery collections, including: • Links of London Thomas Sabo • Michael Kors • Chamilia • Nomination • Pandora • Coeur De Lion • Guess Gucci • Emporio Armani • Tresor Paris • Jersey Pearls • Jools • ChloBo Jewellery

y

y

We are proud to offer watch collections that include: • Cartier • Breitling Omega • Gucci • Tag Heuer • U-Boat

BRANCHES ACROSS THE NORTH EAST & ONLINE

y

Middlesbrough • Yarm • Metro Centre • Guisborough • Hartlepool • Durham • Thirsk Northallerton • Barnard Castle • Ripon • Redcar • Peterlee• Skipton

www.marketcrossjewellers.com

Tel: 01642 246 266

Step out in style

Charles Clinkard Eldon Square Newcastle and branches across the North East www.charlesclinkard.co.uk

F I N E

F O O T W E A R

FIELDS OF GOLD

FASHION CREDITS

Photography: Kevin Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk Model: Katharine McClure www.tyneteesmodels.com Hair & Makeup: Victoria Forshaw www.pinspetalspowder.co.uk Styling: Elysia Agnew

STOCKISTS

Fenwick, Newcastle www.fenwick.co.uk Psyche, Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough www.psyche.co.uk Cobblestone, College Square, Stokesley 01642 715715

Miss Shorthair Poncho £89. Miss Shorthair Scarf £59, Cobblestone.

46

SEP/OCT15

Cigno Nero Lamb’s Leather Western Style Shirt, Blush £238.99, Psyche

Michael Kors Long Tailored Wool Crombie Style Coat £464.99.

Lulu Guinness Izzy Small Polished Calf Bag £349.99, Psyche

SEP/OCT15

47

COAT TALES

TREND WATCH Catherine Newton guides us through the cold weather fashion dilemma

48

GET COSY IN FAUX-FUR >> Led by Stella McCartney, Louis Vuitton and Céline the trend for soft and furry overcoats is about to explode. From more traditional animal print pieces to yeti-inspired Military style by coats, oversized faux-fur hoods and MSGM, £399 even detachable pom-poms the trend for faux-fur has to be the fashion world’s favourite way to wrap up this season.

I am obsessed with Sportmax’s take on this trend; their sleek leopard print coat with a dramatically cinched in waist is just divine. This versatile coat can be thrown over skinny jeans and boots for the day but will look equally stunning worn over a tailored dress for the evening.

STRICTLY TAILORED >> Everyone should have a tailored coat in their wardrobe for winter, it’s a fashion essential. This season look to MaxMara and Paul Smith to find beautiful tailored coats and jackets in the most perfect autumnal hues.

For AW15 MaxMara were inspired by the style of screen legend Marilyn Monroe; soft and neutral tones have been used by the label to create a timeless and elegant collection that you will want to keep in your wardrobe for years to come.

If prim and proper isn’t your thing then look to Paul Smith to discover modern and minimal outerwear tailoring. Paul Smith’s sleek designs combine traditional tailoring with this season’s most on-trend colours and fabrics. From a textured

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania cape, £269 Vivienne Westwood Anglomania coat, £599 J Brand jeans, £190 Kurt Geiger ankle boots, £160

THAT 70S LOOK >> Alongside this season’s love affair with flairs and over-theknee boots (think Abba) you will also notice that outerwear is taking a distinctly 70s turn. Whether it’s an oversized collar or a double-breasted, boxy silhouette a fashionable return to the decade of disco is underway. This is good news for those of you who need to wrap up warm this season as you’ll find an abundance of Kenzo pea coat, heavy woollen pea coats, £575 shearling jackets and long line leather trenches across AW15’s outerwear collections.

My go to label to get this look has to be Kenzo. Their faux-fur shearlingstyle coat in off white is absolutely stunning; pair it with dark indigo flares by Victoria Beckham Denim and a classic See by

Sportmax coat, £799

Kenzo coat, £499 Victoria Beckham flares, £265 Victoria Beckham top, £245 There’s nothing better than facing the new season with the perfect piece of outerwear and for AW15 we’ve got you covered.

Your carefully selected winter cover-up should be the piece in your wardrobe that not only completes your outfit, but also says something about your personal style. Your coat is the first thing most people will notice about your look so it’s important to find the right one! Here are the five outerwear trends worth investing in now.

Chloé tassel bag to go all out 70s. Alternatively add some colour to your wardrobe with Kenzo’s double-breasted orange pea coat. This vibrant coat will ensure that you stand out from the crowd!

navy and grey cocoon coat with a flash of orange under the collar to a cobalt-blue cashmere blend over-coat, Smith’s luxury AW15 collection will not disappoint.

LAYER IT UP >> Piling on the layers is a serious trend this season: during fashion week designers filled their runway collections with capes, ponchos and thick scarves draped over already heavy coats.

Vivienne Westwood’s stunning AW15 range is packed with the most beautiful ponchos in earthy blue, green and brown tartans. Westwood’s ponchos feature a gathered neckline, which makes them so easy to wear, plus they come with an iconic oversized safety pin to ensure a flawless closure. We have styled our favourite Vivienne Westwood poncho over the top of a woollen coat to maximise the layered effect.

PARKA PERFECTION >> Perhaps the coolest coat to be seen in this season is the parka coat. This military-inspired classic has been picking up momentum as a key wardrobe piece over the last few years, and now the humble parka has once again been adopted by the fashion-pack as a mainstay of their cold weather uniform.

For a luxury take on the parka have a look at the AW15 MCQ Alexander McQueen collection; their statement navy parka with a faux-fur trimmed hood will keep you feeling warm and looking stylish - who said fashion can’t be practical too!

To explore our new season collections with the help of our in-house Fashion Stylist please call 0191 232 5100.

Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

SEP/OCT15

SHOP ONLINE AT PSYCHE .CO.UK FREE NEXT WORKING DAY DELIVERY*

JUNIOR

SHOP WITH OUR BRAND NEW APP

OV E R POLO RALPH L AURE N K IDSWEAR

15 0 DES I G N ER B RA N DS ARM A NI J UNIOR

I N C LU DI N G :

HUGO BOSS KIDS

BA RBOUR

STONE ISLAND JUNIOR

other brands include Levi’s kids, Billie Blush, Billie Bandit, CP Company Undersixteen and Absorba

1 75 -187 LI N T HORPE ROAD MID DL ESBROUGH TS1 4AG

+44 (0) 1 642 888333

*AUTUMN/WINTER 15 ITEMS ONLY

SHOP ON L IN E AT PSYC H E .CO.U K

SULTRY NIGHTS

Undie-cover appeal 50

Hello all you lovely people! I do hope you’ve all had a fantastic summer with plenty of relaxation and a bit of sunshine. We’re having a well-deserved break at our home in Spain after what has been a manic few months; it really has been non-stop. But I’ve gotta say the arrival of our gorgeous British Bulldog puppies has got to be the highlight; they are simple scrumptious!

Our lovely girl ‘Muffin’ gave birth to five gorgeous girls and one strapping little boy. We are officially obsessed.

The good news doesn’t stop there. Back in the world of hair we’ve just found out that our very own Marcus King from H&Y Wynyard has made the finals for Men’s Hairdresser Of The Year and Jonathan Turner from H&Y Jesmond is a finalist in this year’s North Eastern Hairdresser Of The Year, both at this year’s British Hairdressing Awards. I’m also thrilled to announce that Gary and I are nominated for British Hairdresser Of The Year too so it promises to be a fantastic night!

With fashion designers predicting that the new fashion concept is to wear underwear as outerwear, yes you heard right, apparently the height of sexy sophistication!, we’ve brought you an utterly gorgeous look which oozes the right amount of style and sexiness, playing with hourglass shapes and boudoir-style hair.

Our model’s hair has been waved out with a wand to create a loose relaxed wave, which is dressed to the side to give a soft undone feel. The key to getting it right is most definitely using the right products.

Volume sprays such as Oribe ‘Volumista’ help create root elevation and a star product to use afterwards is Oribe ‘Dry’ which can only be described as backcomb in a bottle and takes your hair to another level and is perfect for maintaining your look on a night out.

Enjoy x Michael Young and Gary Hooker run award-winning Hooker & Young, with five salons regionwide. See www.hookerandyoung.co.uk for salon details.

SEP/OCT15

LAP IT UP

Ramside Hall’s new £16 million spa has opened its glossy doors and perfect pools. Kathryn Armstrong dives in

Comfort zone A vicious water jet pummels my shoulders with a vigour that leaves me breathless. I’m alone in Ramside Hall’s hydrotherapy pool and thinking to myself that this has to be the stress-buster of all stress-busters.

This ‘swan neck’ (that’s their shape) power jet of water energy should be on prescription for anyone on their way home from a tough day at the office. Knocks you off your feet it does, ridding those weary shoulders of their angsty aches.

Talk about reviving! It can’t fail to make you smile as that tight neck relaxes, taking you from raggy duck to that elegant swan in moments. Made all the better by the fact that you can step out and straight into the steamy do-you-good vapours of the Spa’s Thermal Suite which surrounds the pool.

The aroma steam room was a place to linger with its punchy infused vapours urging you to take some do-you-good deep breaths. The rooms, also including a Himalayan salt steam, have sparkly coloured lights on the ceiling and a decent amount of space inside so you don’t have to get too cosy with a sweaty stranger.

This was a first taste of the new Spa at Ramside Hall near Durham.

It is out to impress with a huge 25m swimming pool (plenty of loungy beds around it – tick box), the Thermal Suite and of course beauty treatment rooms and a refreshing menu of spa day packages to tempt.

The Spa is in a new wing built alongside Ramside’s golf course and busy hotel so there’s lots going on when you arrive. There are new premier rooms in the wing which are impressive. They overlook the golf course with balcony and big views. Furnishings are luxurious with lots of textures and muted autumn colours. Beds deliver a fabulous night’s sleep.

White Company toiletries in the bathrooms and big drench showers complete the style.

It was treatment time in the Spa. In the changing rooms I loved the choice of two sizes of flip-flops in the locker. Hate it when you get huge fabric slippers that end up really soggy.

The flip flops go home with you – and probably on holiday.

The spa range is from Espa, a luxurious therapeutic brand and I had a signature ritual treatment with therapist Katharine.

In the treatment room you talk about any skin and body concerns you want addressed. The treatment includes a facial and neck, shoulder and back massage.

My request was to be uplifted and anti-aged! They are not miracle workers but it’s a good start. They can steer in the right direction and Katharine gave me the choice of oils, using those for the treatment based on my own preference

52

– so be relaxed or rejuvenated, depending on your mood.

The oils for the facials included nourishing rose and neroli.

The facial was deep, cleansing and highly effective with exfoliation, mask and massage. Skin felt and looked lovely afterwards. The shoulder massage was powerful and ouchy in parts – the pressure is to your taste so you can go gentle – but I did want my knots dissolved and this did the trick.

After all this you’re sent to the sleep retreat – a dangerous thing when you’re having an evening treatment. You play with sound therapy beds as vigorous or gentle as you like.

One of the nice things about the Spa is the thought that has gone in to who is using it. There’s a fabulous nail bar and make-up area with Morgan Taylor nail and Mii cosmetics, a beauty snug and cool little balcony area with an infinity

evening it didn’t seem as though you could rock up in your robe and flip-flops, perhaps that’s different in the daytime.

The pan-Asian restaurant Fusion has been masterminded by chef Martin Moore. If you’ve eaten dim sum or pad Thai in the region, he’s probably been involved! The dishes at Fusion are light, healthy but punched through with good flavours and simplicity on the plate. It’s a combination that works well. You want to feel that you’re eating nourishing stuff when you’ve just de-toxed the rest of you.

Having said that, the Fusion Spa Afternoon Tea with a selection of four savoury tasters and four sweet things – coconut and limeleaf panna cotta among them – looks indulgent, inventive and anything but virtuous.

I tried a basket of dim sum which was nicely cooked, the

pool. This area can be ‘spa party’ central, designed as an area for small groups away from the central areas (and you can order in the fizz here! ).

But this area can also be hired for couples – and includes a hanging hammock for two! Might be an idea after your ‘Two Peas in a Pod’ dual treatment, perfect for a date night.

The spa packages include full days but also half days that include a brunch or afternoon tea option or a twilight spa, basically making the spa experience as accessible as a meal out once a fortnight rather than a full-blown special occasion day treat twice a year.

Fusion restaurant sits alongside the spa. When I went in the

right balance of zippy flavours and well textured dough and filling in pork and prawn varieties.

Beef teriyaki don was a flavour-packed dish cooked with really flavoursome meat – tender beef strips carried their flavour through that intense, sweet sauce. A good blend of crunchy veg in the mix and sticky rice.

On the drinks menu I’d have liked to have seen some more interesting fruit juices and blends on offer, ‘juice-bar’ style but the restaurant itself was great: busy and staff were good.

A destination if you’re doing the spa thing or not.

Go get yourself a shoulder pummelling soon! www.ramsidespa.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING

BRITISH HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR NOMINEE 2015 Gary Hooker & Michael Young Men’s Hairdresser of the Year Finalist 2015 - Marcus King North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year Finalist 2015 - Jonathan Turner Darlington 01325 468 994

Gosforth 0191 217 0217

Jesmond 0191 281 6714

Ponteland 01661 821 004

Wynyard 01740 644 690

BAG A TREAT

Beauty:update Fine things for face, body and wellbeing << SMOKE Urban Decay gets us as smoky as bonfire night with a palette of velvety, softy shades for an eye shadow playtime. £38. On counter in Boots.

NAIL IT >>

<< SOS Neom is a name we love, especially as it’s based just down the road in Harrogate. The essence of do-you-good in heavenly scented products.

Among the newbies are Face, body and hair oils made to boost the condition of skin, hair and scalp in clever 3-in-1 oils.

Nourishing active ingredients of organic safflower and jojoba - rich in vitamins A & E - to repair, protect and restore your skin and hair to its smooth, supple best. www.neomorganics.com

Chanel gives nailcare a makeover with, La Manucure de Chanel, a three-step ritual for perfectly groomed nails promising lasting results.

It comprises: gentle nail polish remover, protective smoothing base coat, rapid-drying shiny top coat and a limited-edition velvet top coat. £68. On counter at Fenwick.

MAGIC WAND >> A new one to the Chubby range is Clinique Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara, £17.50. We especially like the limited edition fun shades of Two Ton Teal and Portly Plum.

<< BLOOM Never any great persuasion needed for a Jo Malone purchase – but in October do your bit for breast cancer research. A £20 donation goes to charity when you buy a 100ml Red Roses cologne, £85.

At Fenwick, Newcastle.

BOY STUFF >>

BLACK EYE >> Yes, those smoky eyes look great but there’s an art to be learned. Bobbi Brown comes to the rescue with Double Lining, a technique that gives eyes serious definition by layering liners along the top lash line. Begin by lining the top lash line with Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner. Before it sets, blend in a deep shade of powder shadow.

To accompany the launch of Double Lining, Bobbi introduces new shades of eye shadow and her signature Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, £18.50. Layering liners makes eyes stand out.

Good brushes play their part too. Book in for a lesson at Bobbi Brown counters.

With a product called Pec&Ab Sculpt, £35, the people at Fit have certainly hit their male market. Can a body sculpting serum really live up to the claims of defining and sculpting muscles or eliminate excess fat, tone and firm skin? It’s an award-winner so apparently so.

The serum is packed with caffeine to limit fat storage. Artichoke leaf extract to break down stored fat and plant fructans to tone and tighten skin.

One of a number of men’s skin and body products, the range also includes a stress-busting facial serum called Stress-Less, £40, to regenerate areas around the eyes, forehead and corners of the mouth. The product contains amino acid to instantly reduce the appearance of lines. Botanical extracts help to moisturise, repair damage and soothe irritation.

Active Shampoo is also a winner on thinning hair. www.fitskincare.co.uk

Treatment review

Stepping into the Urban Spa beauty emporium in Morpeth is like walking into an Aladdin’s cave of luxe beauty products and makeup ranges.

It’s an oasis of calm, selling luxe pamper treats from high quality brands including Elemis and Dermalogica to Caudalie, Neom and British brand Delilah cosmetics. I could happily have had a field day buying up the shop.

And that’s before you even set foot in one of the six tranquil treatment rooms in the three-storey building, a one-stop shop for beauty therapy, treatments and products.

54

My treatment of choice, a Caudalie booster facial, was a pampering scented treat.

French brand Caudalie uses grapevine and grape extracts to produce exceptional skincare treatments. Lasting 30 minutes it felt closer to two hours…

Wonderful scents and soothing massage (of the scalp, hands and arms) are the stand-out features of this aromatic facial.

The treatment started with the application of lavender oil on the face, scalp massage and face cleanse to remove all traces of grime from a long day.

A foamy cleanser with gentle scrub was followed by toner and calming face mask. Whilst this took effect, therapist Rachel got to grips with a hand and arm massage.

Deliciously warm towels were used to remove the mask, and face serum and eye cream applied, before a sensitive moisturiser sunk deep into skin.

A Caudalie spritz of the complexion marked the end of the treatment and I was awoken to super-soft, hydrated skin, the effects of which lasted for several days.

BY KATHARINE CAPOCCI Caudalie booster facial lasting 30 minutes costs £30.

Urban Spa, 26 Bridge Street, Morpeth. Tel: 01670 518424. www.urbanspa.co.uk/

SEP/OCT15

Scrum Diddly Umptious Gather the girls together for an afternoon of blissful retreat away from all the rugby furor. This day spa experience is guaranteed to impress with sensational spa facilities and an array of tasty afternoon tea treats.

Your Spa Day includes: •

Welcome drink on arrival

•

Use of Spa Facilities for up to 3 hours

•

Spa afternoon tea for one

•

Complimentary use of fluffy robes & footwear

From £47.00 per person

Your Spa Day includes: •

Welcome drink on arrival

•

Use of spa facilities

•

Choice of either 60 minute, 90 minute or 2 hour Autumn Bliss ritual

•

Two course lunch in our Fusion restaurant

•

Complimentary use of fluffy robes & footwear

From £115.00 per person

Autumn Bliss A Spa experience dedicated to nurture, nourish and renew for that total feeling of Bliss…

Why not retreat to somewhere warm and cosy this autumn and treat yourself to some blissful me-time in the spa. Enjoy a full day in our stunning spa with delicious food and a choice of three beautifully blissful autumn treatment rituals, guaranteed to smooth, nourish & renew your mind, body and soul.

The Spa at Ramside Hall Hotel Carrville Durham DH1 1TD Book your personalised spa experience now... www.ramsidespa.co.uk | enquiries@ramsidespa.co.uk Spa Reservations are open 8.30am - 8.30pm

Telephone: 0191 375 3088

IT’S A WRAP

LIVE TO SHOP WITH WENDY GIBSON

That’s the look!

When Stella met Kate – it was eyeliner envy. Celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury has a raft of A-list followers. Now you can share some of the magic as her range hits Newcastle. She talked make-up and miracles with Luxe

Keeping the summer vibe into autumn and stocking up on cashmere This summer my shopping memory chest was revisited by sorties to Sorrento, Capri, and St Tropez.

I was retracing my steps – of ten years – and while my sense of direction may be rubbish in a car, give me shops to navigate by, and I’m better than a sat nav on steroids!

Safely disembarked, after a fortifying lunch and cocktails at the Quisisana, in the centre of Capri, the bloke marvelled at how I could find my way to Prada, Miu Miu, and Gucci, almost blindfold, despite that decade gap.

The old faithful labels are still there, refreshed by young blood. I discovered Nina Kaufmann, a designer loved in Europe, though slightly harder to find in the UK, who designs all kinds of pretty kaftans, tops, and dresses, with a slightly hippy vibe.

With a much improved exchange rate of pounds against the Euro, shopping abroad, is once again such fun. St Tropez was fertile ground for some interesting clothes to bring back home. Zadig and Voltaire have a fab boutique in the heart of St Tropez, but you’ll also find stand-alone stores in the UK now. In the sale I sourced one of the softest grey cashmere jumpers - classic brought bang up to date with “Karma”, written in lime green beading across the front.

And in anticipation of yet more memories, I also opted for a spaghetti strap, silk, black, handkerchief edged slip dress, which I’m holding back for a Christmas or New year party.

Worn the Zadig and Voltaire way with studded ankle boots!

September and October are always interesting months in which to find the right clothes. Find luxe for less at Hush. Its poncho cardigan shawl, just £35, is reversible in claret and grey, perfect for throwing on after an exercise class, to take you out to dinner or to throw in your bag for emergencies.

Boden is British, bullet proof, and far from boring. I love the leopard-print T-bar shoe with a sky high option too. Suede skirts have replaced summer’s denim, and you MUST have some suede in your AW wardrobe.

If you want to find something that no one else is wearing, then it’s always worth checking out Vintage, in Corbridge.

From sheepskin coats, to woven country jackets, old liberty print scarves, and my favourite at the moment – vintage silk tea dresses. Very ladylike.

And finally for now, how about shopping with your heart. St Oswald’s Hospice flagship shop called “By St Oswald’s”, is just off Osborne Road in Jesmond.

Mary Portas herself could not have done a better job with the shop fit, and window display. Brand new items are featured alongside designer donations – and they’re of top quality, including Dior, Burberry, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Paul Smith. Smart coats, dresses, and an array of handbags and shoes. The bloke even smiled appreciatively when he saw some of the menswear. From clothes to Paul Smith laptop bags, to stylish homewear. It’s a beautiful shop, for a great organisation, and definitely worth your time, and love, fashionistas.

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

56

When you’re a makeup guru you’re also everyone’s ‘go-to’ for advice, tips and tricks. And that includes the likes of Stella McCartney and Kate Moss.

Charlotte Tilbury decided to harness this power of the ‘best-friend’ and design her own cosmetics range so the world could share the A-lister’s secrets.

A make-up guru for more than 20 years, working with the world’s top models, celebrities and designers, now her best-kept secrets are set to arrive in Fenwick, Newcastle at the end of the month with a one-stop skincare and makeup collection.

It’s a fabulous addition to the store and means treats galore for those of us who love something new, glossy and savvy in the makeup bag.

There is definitely a Tilbury ‘look’ – and Charlotte tells a great story that illustrates it.

“I remember once, when I did Stella McCartney’s makeup before a BBC event, she turned up and saw Kate Moss who’d had her makeup done by an artist there. She saw Stella and instantly said “I’m so jealous you’re wearing a Tilbury eye!”

That’s about as good as it gets when it comes to recommendation.

Her products are quick-fix, flawless and a little bit cheaty too.

“These are products for a modern woman who is as likely to do her makeup on the run with a mobile phone in hand as she is to sit down at a dressing table. By decoding expertise into essential makeup tricks, tips and tools, learn how to make-up becomes a secret weapon – ‘dial down’ the imperfections!”

Charlotte explains: “The reason I built this brand was to share everything I know about the power of makeup – it’s what I dreamt of

before I became a makeup artist. I wanted to create a makeup range that was like a virtual consultation with one of the world’s leading experts.

“All my friends would quiz me on what eye shadow goes with what, what blusher suits their skin-tone, and what lipstick will go with this dress, and so I designed a colour-curated, ready-made makeup wardrobe of ten looks to erase these problems. It’s time-saving, colour-curated, fool-proof, ready-made makeup wardrobe. I simply poured all of my backstage secrets, tips and tricks into an easy-to-use, easy-to-choose format - because everyone wants to know how to be the best version of themselves.”

The idea is that it’s an expert brand made easy.

“The quality of the formulas is so incredibly forgiving that you’ll never look dusty; you’ll only look luminous, gorgeous and red carpet ready.”

That’s a nice promise. Charlotte’s celebrity fans who prove it number among them Penelope Cruz, Amal Clooney, Kate Moss, Miranda Kerr, Sienna Miller, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, Cara Delevingne, Poppy Delevingne, Victoria Beckham, Olivia Palermo, Jennifer Aniston, Blake Lively, Celine Dion, Emily Ratajkowski, Jennifer Lopez and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

This autumn Charlotte is loving the ‘Dolce Vita’ look, “a particular favourite of mine and perfect for autumn. Inspired by Sophia Loren, Penelope Cruz and Monica Bellucci, it’s a sultry molten-copper smoky eye and feline flick, paired with a seductive pink lip”, she says.

Her ‘heroes’ include a new Magic Foundation, five years in the making and promising to cover any redness, discoloration, acne and under-eye bags in minutes.

“It morphs to the texture of your skin and gives you instant perfect skin, everyday”, she says.

And who doesn’t ache for a ‘Mini Miracle Eye

SEP/OCT15

Wand’? A life-changing product promising eight hours sleep in two clicks, in real life, in real time.

CHARLOTTE’S REAL FAVES IF PRESSED TO CHOOSE? >>

Crathorne Hall Hotel

“ I’m not really a favourites person. But if I have to choose then I can’t live without my miracle-working moisturiser, Magic Cream.

You can’t have a beautiful painting without a beautiful canvas. It instantly turns around tired, dull, dehydrated skin and is packed with a secret mix of ingredients that I’ve been blending together for years. I call it the magic dew of youth and luminosity in a jar, it’s also incredibly soothing, like a comforting cashmere blanket for the skin.

I start all makeup with it.

“I’m also incredibly proud of Wonderglow, an instant soft-focus radiant skin elixir. It steals natural light from its surroundings and re-emits it through the skin, so you look lit from within. I call it Gisele-in-a-Jar!” A self-confessed mascara obsessive, she designed Full Fat Lashes mascara.

“Before I developed my own line, I would use a cocktail of up to five mascaras to get the result I can now get from my 5-star mascara. I literally went through thousands

of brushes and formulas during the product development phase to create my perfect 5-in-1: it curls, lengthens, separates and adds volume and drama.

I always want to create a “filmstar flutter” inspired by the incredible lashes of Elizabeth Taylor, Veronica Lake and, of course, Jessica Rabbit.

I’ve now thrown out my ‘mascara bag’ for ‘the one’. It’s the holy grail of mascaras.”

So Charlotte, if you had to rescue one product from a burning make-up bag?

“My Magic Cream, it literally floods the skin with moisture and was the first product I created. I used to mix my own recipe to use backstage and on shoots so this was the first product I ever created. It actually named itself because models, photographers and designers would all be asking for my little pot of magic cream.”

The range is glamorous and luxurious, so what’s the ‘wow’ factor gift suggestion?

“One of my best-selling products is Filmstar Bronze & Glow, I love that silver screen siren look of candle-lit skin and this is beautifully packaged in the style of a vintage 1920’s cigarette case which looks gorgeous when you pull it out of your makeup bag.”

WINTER PROMOTION Full use of the health club facilities with a hot chocolate and a cookie ESPA Relaxing Top to Toe Ritual 1 hour 25minutes: • Begins with a mini foot ritual to warm your soul followed with • Back exfoliation & relaxing hot stones back massage and ends with a warming mini facial & Oriental scalp massage • Available to book now for October, November & December 2015

AVAILABLE OCTOBER, NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER Slaley Hall, Slaley, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 0BX

01434 673350

Only £75 for 1hour 25minutes

SlaleySpa@qhotels.co.uk QHotels.co.uk/SlaleyHall

Terms and Conditions Terms & conditions apply & offer subject to availability. Offer available for the months of October, November and December 2015. Offer cannot be booked in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. Package includes 1hour 25 minutes book out time inclusive of consultation and aftercare advice. The health club is family & child friendly, busy times are weekends and during school holidays.

exclusively yours wedding packages One Day, One Wedding, One Bride

With views overlooking the Leven Valley and Cleveland Hills, Crathorne Hall es entiv Hotel, near Yarm, North Yorkshire, l inc r April a i c e o f Sp is the ideal location for a country able avail uly 2016. house wedding. With award J and s for winning food and exceptional warm act uetails t n o C and friendly service, you have the her d furt perfect venue for your big day. Plus we only host one wedding a day to ensure you are the centre of attention.

Wedding showcases held throughout the year, for further information and to RSVP to confirm your attendance visit handpickedhotels.co.uk/crathornehall Speak to our wedding co-ordinators for availability and special offers 01642 700398 facebook.com/crathornehall Crathorne Hall Hotel Crathorne, Yarm, North Yorkshire TS15 0AR handpickedhotels.co.uk

@CrathorneHall

HAIR STYLING SPECIALISTS

VI SI T OUR NE W STYLI N G BAR F O R T H AT S P ECI AL HA I R DAY, A DE SI GN UNI Q U E TO YO U I N AN I N S TAN T Reef Durham, Ramside Hall Hotel and Country Club, Durham, Co. Durham DH1 1TD 0191 386 3055 Reef Wynyard, Wynyard Hall Hotel and Country Club, Billingham, Cleveland TS22 5NF 01740 665 404 www.reefsalons.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

57

TAKE THE PLUNGE

Pool party people – hear this!

A-lister style comes to a spa near you. Kathryn Armstrong dips a toe It was that sunniest of Sundays a few weeks back, the morning after a tumultuous night of storms.

A friend holidaying in Palm Springs popped her pics on Facebook, the bluest of skies, the greenest of grass and pool party lounging.

Same here we quipped as we lay beneath glorious skies, melting in supreme (if rare) temperatures and munching on frozen grapes in our own version of A-lister Hollywood just a couple of minutes’ drive from the A1!

Yes, we got lucky with the blue skies but who needs longhaul to LA when a pool party paradise is on the doorstep?

Thank you very much Rockliffe Hall for bringing such a glamorous treat to our doorstep.

The five-star hotel’s Spa Garden has just opened at Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth and it’s a beauty of a place.

It’s a self-contained mini-spa with an infinity pool overlooking the well-groomed and luscious golf course.

There’s a sauna and decking with loungers plus music and mags. One very cool retreat. You can call in supplies of champagne too – and those iced grapes!

It’s a timely opening to offer us some spa solace as the nights grow dark and something very new and nicely wow-factor for the region.

The Spa Garden may be fabulous on sunny days but will

Who needs long-haul to LA when a pool party paradise is on the doorstep? Thank you for bringing such a glamorous treat to our doorstep

58

come into its own in the winter when you can cosy up inside on heated beds then skip into the fizzing warm waters beneath crisp skies.

The Spa Garden was launched with a glittering VIP party giving a taste of how it can be used as an entertainment space all of its own. It can accommodate 20-30 people and be hired in its entirety for £400 in two-hour blocks. You must be staying at the hotel or using the Spa to hire. Spa and hotel guests will be able to check in for £30 for two hours.

The new Spa Garden has an infinity edge hydrotherapy pool with massage features and a warm Jacuzzi, under-floor heated decking, lounging areas, a traditional glass-fronted sauna cabin, a fire pit, a water feature, landscaped gardens with views across Rockliffe Hall’s grounds and heated relaxation loungers.

New treatments have also been developed especially for Rockliffe Hall’s Spa Garden by NEOM, which include

‘energise’, ‘happiness, ‘de-stress’ and ‘sleep’-themed treatments using meditation, shiatsu, Thai massage and trigger-point and reflexology techniques.

Rockliffe Hall’s spa has become one of the most successful in the UK and is the only spa in the North to receive the Good Spa Guide award for Sheer Luxury two years running, competing against high-profile spas including Dormy House, Chewton Glen and Pennyhill Park.

Until December enjoy a taster of the Spa Garden with The Weekend Wind Down package. A leisurely evening of spa use from 5pm with a welcome drink and delicious food. The package includes Spa Garden use and a two-course evening meal in the Brasserie. The Spa at Rockliffe Hall is the ideal place to spend your weekends. £85 per person.

Available Friday to Sunday until Sunday 20th December 2015. www.rockliffehall.com

SEP/OCT15

The Lakes Dist

“I HOPE LOTS MORE PEOPLE GET TO SEE THE DISTILLERY AND THE WONDERFUL BENEFITS IT HAS HERE, FROM THE LOCAL WATER AND PERFECT ENVIRONMENT TO LOVELY BISTRO. IT IS ESPECIALLY LOVELY TO SEE AN OLD AGRICULTURAL BUILDING BEING RESTORED AND PUT TO GOOD USE. I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO COMING BACK.” HRH The Princess Royal

RAISE A GLASS Faith, Hope, Luck and Love tells the story of the birth of the first British Isles whisky at The Lakes Distillery in Cumbria.

It’s a story with a heart in the North East with many of The Lakes Distillery’s founding team well-known in the region, among them entrepreneur Nigel Mills and restaurateur Terry Laybourne.

The beautiful book features breath-taking landscape photography and tells the story of how a derelict Victorian farm in a stunning Cumbrian setting was transformed into a world class distillery.

The Lakes Distillery is now producing a unique malt whisky, The Lakes Malt as well as the UK’s first British Isles blended whisky, The ONE and The Lakes Gin and The Lakes Vodka.

It’s an enchanting story of vision, passion and craftsmanship that will appeal to anyone with a sense of adventure.

Faith, Hope, Luck and Love will be published in September.

Luxe exclusive edition signed by founder Paul Currie

Pre-order your copy using promo code LUXE-TLD

Pre-order your copy £24.99

www.lakesdistillery.com/shop

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

The Lakes Distillery

The Lakes Distillery

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

A ROYAL TOAST

ROASTED CUMBRIAN VENISON WITH GIN AND JUNIPER SAUCE SERVES 4

DREAM Whisky is in Paul Currie’s blood. His father set up a distillery on Arran and sowed the seeds for a distillery in the Lake District.

46

9

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

81

Bring the marinade to a boil and skim carefully.

Add the veal stock and juniper berries, simmer to reduce by half.

Add the gin and swirl in the unsalted butter.

Check the seasoning and finish with a good grind of white pepper.

TO FINISH Season the venison with salt and a generous amount of pepper.

Heat the oil in a heavy frying pan or roasting tray and add the venison, followed by the butter.

Transfer to the pre-heated oven for 4-5 minutes and cook to medium rare (54°C core temperature).

Remove the meat and rest in a warm place, loosely covered with foil for 5 – 10 minutes before carving into generous slices.

Serve coated with the gin and juniper sauce Accompany with seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Place the venison into a deep dish and pour the marinade over. Cover with a piece of oiled greaseproof paper and refrigerate for 2 days, turning from time to time.

Remove the venison from the marinade and pat dry on kitchen paper.

Strain the marinade into a small saucepan.

177

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

154

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

155

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

THE LAKES DIS

CUMBRIAN SPIRIT

So many whiskies, so much choice.

The Lakes Distillery spirit was willing and waiting. The skill lay in making this bottle stand out from the rest.

W

e’re not wishing our lives away but December 17, 2017 will be a particularly significant day at The Lakes Distillery.

It will mark three years since the first cask was filled, a day when our precious spirit officially becomes a single malt whisky, in this case, The Lakes Malt.

By then, the near-perfect River Derwent water will have completed its journey, in distance, from its source high up in the hills of Upper Borrowdale at Sprinkling Tarn, and in time, from fermentation and distillation through to the all-important 1,095-day maturation.

In one sense that day will be the end of an amazing journey that has seen The Lakes Distillery rise, quite literally, from the rubble to become a state-of-the-art distilling operation.

With The ONE, we have already created the first British Isles blended whisky as well as our own unique The Lakes Gin and The Lakes Vodka.

Adding The Lakes Malt, ‘a drop of liquid gold’, to the family will mark the start of another spirited adventure for The Lake Distillery.

Here’s the story of the amazing journey so far…

A

aul Currie discovered the cluster of old farm buildings, nestling under trees, just 150 yards from the River Derwent, and knew he had found what he had been looking for.

The 160-year-old buildings, which had originally been a Victorian model farm, had been left derelict for nearly 20 years.

They were forlorn, damp and crumbling. Exposed to years of unforgiving Lakeland weather, they had suffered extensive water damage which had washed away much of their foundations.

As those foundations had crumbled, walls had settled and were bulging threateningly: nettle and dock were prising their way up through the courtyard and floors and climbing weeds were even beginning to cloak walls.

Even so, it was a case of love at first sight.

“It was a Eureka moment,’’ says Paul Currie.

“We were looking for a site with specific requirements. It had to be big enough to handle all our requirements because, being in the National Park, we couldn’t build anything extra; it needed to be accessible and there are plenty of places in the Lakes that are not

18

A royal seal of approval was the perfect toast to the success of The Lakes Distillery as Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal officially opened the distillery and visitor centre.

THE ONE

P

80

The strained marinade (as before) 150ml Veal stock (or brown chicken stock) 1tsp Juniper berries (crushed slightly) 1tbls The Lakes Gin 10g Unsalted butter

Carrot, peeled and finely sliced Onion, peeled and finely sliced Celery, finely sliced Butter Red wine Red wine vinegar Water Small bouquet garni Rosemary sprig Clove

700g Roe deer saddle – fully trimmed

176

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

PLACE

STILL

GIN AND JUNIPER SAUCE

65g 65g 15g 10g 250ml 25ml 160ml 1 1 1

VENISON

47

Forlorn, damp and crumbling the buildings might have been, but the Victorian model farm which is now home to The Lakes Distillery gave Paul Currie a ‘Eureka moment’ which, after a few hurdles, has been proved right.

The gleaming whisky still is a place where science and nature combine to work their malty magic.

MARINADE

Sweat the vegetables in butter without colouring.

Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove from the heat and allow to cool fully

“RENOWNED FOR ITS BEAUTY, THE LAKES WAS ONE OF THE LAST GREAT CELTIC STRONGHOLDS WITH ITS OWN TRADITION OF WHISKY DISTILLING. WITH ITS WILD PEATY FELLS AND PURE WATER TUMBLING OFF THEM DOWN HIDDEN VALLEYS, THE LAKES IS MADE FOR WHISKY”

tillery

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

week may be a long time in politics, in whisky-naming it’s a terrifyingly brief timescale.

When the original name and branding of The Lakes Distillery Whisky had to be abandoned at the last minute for legal reasons, the team was left with just a week to come up with a new concept for a presentation they were scheduled to make to potential investors.

They turned to creative design agency Hedley McEwan of Newcastle and gave them five days to find a solution. The clock was ticking.

Paul Currie Founder, The Lakes Distillery

19

106

107

6

7

DESIGN DAYS

TREND WATCH with Chris Stocks, Pol Kefton Premium Design Our new interiors style spy hunts down designer touches for happy homes

Out with the old and in with the new. Interior design has long been perceived as fluffy cushions, curtains, fancy wall paper and feature walls - but there’s so much more to interior design to be aware of.

It’s my job to offer up a bit of armchair indulgence and maybe a bit of guidance when it comes to what’s in style, what’s current and what are some of the must-haves and must-try interior trends for the home.

I plan to share my views of, and opinions about, interiors and design-thinking. Also challenge some of the out-of-date thinking on interior design. But as much as this I hope to share outstanding and incredibly beautiful products and projects I come across. As the managing director of the North East and UK’s leading luxury home group Pol Kefton Kitchens, Morpeth Bathrooms and the exclusive homeware store Pol Kefton Home, I spend a lot of time thinking about interiors!

When it comes to interiors, the small details matter.

Over coming months I plan to make your mouth water and jealousy levels soar.

NEXT ISSUE >> we will be looking at Kitchen design and key aspects of creating the luxury environment within a kitchen.

RUSTIC REVIVAL >> Contrasting rustic, weathered, reclaimed materials with modern, sleek interiors creates an interesting textural palette.

Menu’s wall candleholder, above, makes a dramatic statement when clustered on a painted wall.

In powder-coated steel it comes in black, warm grey, white, cobalt blue, pale blue, chrome, copper and brass. Product can also be used as a single piece, right, from £30.

NEUTRAL PALETTE >>

THE GREAT OUTDOORS >> ‘Bringing the outdoors in’ is becoming increasingly popular, with the use of house plants, simple pieces of garden furniture and the use of natural materials, like reclaimed timber.

Menu’s wire plant pots are made from black powder coated steel frames. Available in three heights. Inspired by a Japanese garden, from £63.

Neutral greys and browns are on trend for autumn. These colours will be best used with natural and earthy materials.

Villeroy and Boch, Artesano tray stand £89.

Timber stand with slate bases.

SCULPTURAL ART >> Clean lines and efficient use of light and space can define simple, functional design. To create this look contrast colours and textures and add a couple of contemporary sculptural pieces.

Impress with Georg Jensen’s Indulgence Grand Champagne Cooler £275. The mirror polished stainless steel cooler holds three bottles of champagne.

HEAVY METAL >> 2015 is the year in which we trade our typical silver taps for a more muted metallic copper, bronze or an antique gold tap.

The metallic theme can be continued around the home with accessories such as ornaments, cutlery and plates.

Little hints of luxury.

Tom Dixon, Scent Gift Set. £80. A trio of mini scented candles contained within a hand-spun vessel formed of brass, copper and nickel.

Pol Kefton Kitchens Unit 1 Coopies Field, Coopies Lane Industrial Estate, Morpeth Ne61 6Jt Telephone: 01670 503869

Morpeth Bathrooms Unit 6B, Coopies Lane Industrial Estate, Morpeth, Northumberland Ne61 6Jn Telephone: 01670 517638

Pol Kefton Home Unit 16 | 17 Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth Ne61 1Ns Telephone: 01670 503749

www.polkefton.co.uk

60

SEP/OCT15

Exciting new products!

REPLACEMENT ROOFS Visit our newly extended/refurbished 10,000sqft showroom and let us make your dreams come true.

KITCHENS • BEDROOMS • BATHROOMS

If you are looking for flair and innovative design it doesn’t matter what part of your home you want to improve. We can achieve what you are looking for and beyond, all under one roof. No need to visit showroom after showroom, it’s now all here!

Come and see all of our actual-size fabulous displays and discuss your ideas with one of our experienced designers.

WINDOWS • DOORS • BI-FOLD DOORS

www.greatlook.co.uk 0191 4913836 Visit our stunning showroom 10th Avenue West Team Valley Gateshead NE11 0HL Opposite Retail World

ORANGERIES • GUARDIAN ROOFS

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Foamy moments We love the sink-in sudsy appeal of this superdeep egg-shaped bath. A definite go-to for dark night bathtimes. From ÂŁ6,500. www.greatlook.co.uk

62

SEP/OCT15

A Wood Idea adds the prestigious Ted Todd hardwood flooring range to their portfolio

This comprehensive collection of British hardwood floors compliments the Wood Idea commitment to the highest quality joinery products for the home.

“Now that’s a Wood Idea” Staircases I Flooring I Doors Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear. NE21 5TR T:

0191 414 1300

F:

0191 414 1306

Visit:

www.awoodidea.com

A WOOD IDEA GREAT IDEAS IN WOOD FLOORING & DOORS

FUR THE JOURNEY in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

Cool campers Christian and Carolyn Van Outersterp were among the first people to bring ‘glamping’ to the UK. Now they’ve taken the concept to new heights bringing Canadian wilderness luxury to the woodland

Woodland and glamour. They’ve literally been made bedfellows at a unique country hideaway in North Yorkshire.

64

The magic of the woodland with some real campfire chic has been brought to life by cool couple Christian and Carolyn Van Outersterp.

They rented a woodland, as you do, and

having made a success of their first foray into posh camping with the Jollydays glamping site near York, they’ve toned down the bunting side of things to get serious with rustic to create the North Star Club, a ‘magical woodland retreat’ on the outskirts of York.

Forget all thoughts of shivering in draughty huts. Think of being wrapped in fur throws watching the flicker of firelight cast against a copper bath. Candles shimmering and a massage waiting.

Yes, you’re in the Canadian wilderness. That’s the concept Christian and Carolyn want to deliver with this extra special project. Those outdoorsy, romantic veranda moments of the Little House on the Prairie and The Waltons.

For the couple, North Star Club is the culmination of their 15-year dream to create the quintessential woodland retreat.

The Club is inspired by Christian’s North American heritage and his Canadian grandmother’s tales of the American Great

Camps - rustic, wilderness retreats, more akin to woodland hotels, which were built for wealthy industrialists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The couple wanted to recreate the magic of these camps, in a rugged Yorkshire setting - and the result is a serene and

They’ve toned down the bunting side of things to get serious with rustic to create the North Star Club, a ‘magical woodland retreat’ on the outskirts of York

SEP/OCT15

wow 75 up to

indulgent escape from the pressures of 21st century life.

That hectic way of life is something they know well. The Van Outersterps are award-winning designers, (Christian a former landscape architect and Carolyn trained in fashion). They’re best known for having revolutionised the contemporary fireplace market with the iconic Firebowl (exhibited at the V&A) and creating CVO Firevault, a unique restaurant bar in central London which gained a cult following.

It’s 12 years since they swapped urban life to start Jollydays Glamping with a bunting-filled woodland camp complete with four-poster beds in safari-style vintage tents.

They are passionate advocates of country life – they live on the edge of the North York Moors with their four children, two dozen hens and Binny the Border terrier.

This new project creates a soothing retreat

for their glampers who have grown up a bit.

Maybe their kids have flown the nest so a holiday means luxury and pampering surroundings rather than getting stuck in to mud or marshmallows round the campfire.

“We were among the first people to do ‘glamping’, this site ramps that up a notch bringing boutique hotel style to the woodland and the USPs for this site is it’s open all year round, except Christmas week, so that’s different to Jollydays too.”

Carolyn has had some fun with the interiors of the woodland suites.

They are named after famous and fascinating Yorkshire people, from painter Atkinson Grimshaw to heroic pilot Amy Johnson.

“She was a heroic pilot who was lost on a dangerous wartime mission, a feisty lady renowned for her glamour and daring nature but was also the first woman to qualify as a ground engineer. The suite exudes her >>

0/0

off ex-displays

10 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, NE11 0JF

www.h2obdc.co.uk

National strength, locally delivered

• Building new homes in Morpeth, Birtley, Ponteland, Saltwell & Sowerby • Award-winning homes that inspire modern living and set new benchmarks in design • Superior specification as standard on all our developments

0191 283 6929 lindenhomes.co.uk

Photographs show typical Linden homes. Details correct at time of going to press.

SEP/OCT15

65

FUR THE JOURNEY in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

unique and personal style of ‘rough glamour’, says Carolyn.

There are eight woodland suites and others include Rose representing the White Rose of Yorkshire.

“The rose is still to be found everywhere in Yorkshire and this peaceful, romantic suite is a symphony of soft, chalky shades of white”, adds Carolyn.

Inspired by the famous Yorkshire poet and stylish eccentric, Dame Edith Sitwell - a baronet’s daughter descended from the Plantagenets, her named suite reflects her dapper aristocratic bohemian style with the necessary collection of books to dip into.

The suites all have a cosy sitting room, large

66

bedroom with a wood burner and comfy kingsize bed and spacious bathroom. Rose and Howard also boast deep copper baths.

Comfort comes in the form of cosy warmth, layers of textures and plenty of ‘rustic-luxe’.

So you can hunker down in your own space but also make the expedition to The Woodshed, a communal relaxation space where you can snuggle up with a book by the fire and help yourself to tea, coffee and homemade cake – outside there’s a canopied campfire, perfect for chilling and stargazing in all weathers.

North Star Club is in a great part of the country, nestled into the Yorkshire Wolds, in what’s become known as “Hockney country”, where artist David Hockney has created

some of his most famous work.

The woodland is just outside the village of Sancton with an award-winning pub, The Star.

Foodies will be beating a path to some other tasty neighbours. The ‘local’ is Michelinstarred Pipe and Glass and Drewtons, a farm shop five minutes’ drive from the club, serves breakfast, lunch and afternoon teas, much sourced from the Drewton Estate or their network of local farmers.

The town of Beverley is packed with nice galleries, shops and eating places, among them Ogino, a modern Japanese restaurant that’s a bit of a speakeasy.

Rooms called Rose and Howard boast deep copper baths and comfort comes in the form of cosy warmth, layers of textures and plenty of ‘rustic-luxe’

www.northstarclub.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

Step into style...

A Wood Idea is a specialist supplier of wood flooring, doors, staircases and decking based in the North East of England. Walk through our door and let us bring fresh inspiration to your good ideas in wood, whether it is flooring, doors, stairs, garden decking or all four. Our knowledge and expertise in timber is equalled only by our passion for customer satisfaction. If it seems you have been looking forever, if you have a vision that you can’t quite put into words or you want something a little different, an idea as individual as you are, then bring it to us and we will make it into a reality.

“Now that’s a Wood Idea” Staircases I Flooring I Doors Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear. NE21 5TR T:

0191 414 1300

F:

0191 414 1306

Visit:

www.awoodidea.com

A WOOD IDEA GREAT IDEAS IN WOOD FLOORING & DOORS

DIG THIS

PLOT with Darren Crichton-Jones, owner, Bradley Gardens, Wylam Our new man in the garden gets to grips with the autumn tidy-up

Some more exotic planting will be introduced with the aim of providing that additional late flourish of colour. New varieties of fruit trees will be added around the old walls where once there grew many soft fruits, grown to supply Bradley Hall

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

This month the team and I celebrated our second anniversary at Bradley Gardens. Since buying Bradley back in 2013 we have been under a constant programme of restoration and regeneration to bring this 18th century four-acre walled garden back to life.

We are only now starting to turn a corner, after two years of seasonal change and having had the opportunity to watch the garden grow and develop, it is now the challenge for myself and the garden team to take this unique walled garden to another level. We are currently finalising plans for the design of a David Austin rose garden along with the planting of new borders into once-forgotten areas of the garden seldom seen by visitors. Some more exotic planting will be introduced with the aim to provide that additional late flourish of colour and different varieties of fruit trees will be added around the old walls where once there grew many soft fruits, grown to supply Bradley Hall.

Whilst we plan the future development of the garden we are always mindful of the seasonal tasks that are a must in order to keep things looking their best.

Here’s just a few of the tasks ahead for the months of September and October… >> Clean out cold frames and greenhouses ready for plant protection and autumn use. >> Collect and sow seed from treasured perennials. >> Divide herbaceous perennials, particularly plants that have stopped flowering >> Plant spring flowering bulbs such as Narcissi, Tulips and Mascari >> Harvest early apples and soft fruits – ready for our kitchens to bake autumn crumbles! >> Stop feeding plants >> Shape the hedging ready for winter >> Prune climbing roses once they have finished flowering.

Any dead or spindly looking growth should be cut out and tie up any new growth from the base. >> Clear fallen leaves and add to the compost. >> Start planning any hedging or tree planting which can be done during the dormant period ahead.

68

>> Start to cut back borders and give the lawns a last mow!

Bradley Gardens isn’t just a beautiful garden and over the past two years we have been restoring the 19th Century glasshouse where once pineapples grew, into a very popular café where our team of chefs make sure we use as much of the seasonal produce from the gardens as possible including raspberries, blackberries, damsons and apples all of which are then used in the jams, chutneys, cakes and puddings.

As we prepare the garden for autumn our shops and nursery are also gearing up for the festive season ahead, the orders are in for the winter bedding and Christmas trees, the Home Store and Cook Shop will see the arrival of new product lines and festive gifts, and our ladies accessories store will be bursting at the seams with this autumn’s colours in jewellery, bags, winter scarfs and party accessories.

The team and I are all looking forward to the season and changes ahead and to the continuing development of the garden our visitors love so much. www.bradley-gardens.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

HOME TIME

NewcastleGateshead Quayside The concept of joined-up thinking across the Tyne’s riverbanks has come to fruition with desirable waterside in a growing community making the most of a spectacular and unrivalled setting. Culture fix guaranteed at the glorious Sage and BALTIC landmarks PROPERTIES >> Rooms with a view. And boy are there views to be had. The waterside mix is predominantly apartments which range from teeny studios to glossy penthouses. Plenty of modern new-builds making the most of the fresh air and wide river at Gateshead Staiths but on both sides of the river some nice conversions in period buildings with bags of character.

CONNECTED >> Best on foot and on two wheels to be honest. The Tyne Bridge is one place commuting motorists will get to know very well at slow-paced rush hour. But the beauty of living here is that you can commute to the city centre easily. Likewise, the Metro and Central Station are on your doorstep.

Much of the Quayside is part of the Coast2Coast cycle route so it’s very bike-friendly. Cycle Hub in Ouseburn is great for a day’s bike hire to explore.

SHOP >> You’re only steps from the big city shops up

70

in Newcastle city centre but linger a while at the Quayside where independent and design-led businesses offer something more thoughtful.

Ouseburn is the city’s creative hub with studios and galleries often holding open studio days where you can buy from the maker. Northern Print is always worth a look for a gallery gaze or to buy original artworks.

Upside Down Presents on The Side next to Dog Leap Stairs is fab for gifts including local art, photos, prints and even hand-made dog-treats. You’ll love the original greeting cards that ‘say it like it is’ and a variety of Geordie and Northern-themed cards.

The concept of Whosit&Whatsit is to showcase the work of new designers in a stunning Grade II listed building on Sandhill on the historic Quayside. W&W is a walk-in ‘lookbook’ where everything you will see, sit on, drink from or interact with can be bought.

Over at Sage and BALTIC, the onsite shops are worth a visit for quirky gifts.

STROLL >> Or cycle. Much of the Quayside is part of the Coast2Coast cycle route so it’s very bike-friendly. Cycle Hub in Ouseburn is great for a day’s bike hire so you can head off east or west and see where the river takes you on ready-made trails. www.newcastlegateshead.com is the place to find some useful walking guides to download covering Ouseburn and the Quays.

Sunday morning Quayside market is a good place to wander, shop and fill your baskets – huge variety of stalls from makers, artisans as well as market-stall bargains.

The High Level Bridge is very walker-friendly and architecturally dazzling. One of those places you usually zoom past – well worth a wander.

EAT & DRINK >> Who needs a kitchen? On the Gateshead side of things tuck into posh Indian at Raval or enjoy a coffee and cake with view at Sage or BALTIC. Up river at Dunston, there are big noises about The Staiths Café set against the stunning backdrop of the

historic Dunston Staiths structure, a scheduled monument and Grade II listed.

The cafe faces onto the riverside and protected mud flats and bird habitat. A little hub all its own for great coffee, fresh, honest food, The owners say: “A space to meet friends, read a book or simply get away from the daily stresses of life. We see potential in multi-functional spaces, similar to European cafes which have inspired us in cities such as Berlin and Amsterdam.”

Newcastle Quayside is gourmet heaven.

Eat cool with a street food fix at the Boiler Shop Steamer just behind the station the first weekend of the month. Go high end at the ever reliable Cafe 21 or its Laybourne gastro pub stablemate Broad Chare where bar snacks are unrivalled. The Staith House is the place for a tasting menu moment with Kenny Atkinson’s showcase dining.

Piccolino gets the vote for a fun and buzzy Italian hangout.

Quayside living is made for lazy brunching, coffee stops and weekend mooching. In Newcastle on Queen Street Quay Ingredient

SEP/OCT15

HOME TIME

property: three to choose Big views No need for TV in here - a luxey penthouse at Baltic Quay with great views over the Tyne means you can gaze at the sunset and twinkling lights for entertainment.

£695,000

PROPERTY WATCH WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

Urban base

Loft living The Turnbull Building is characterful and lofty with striking views and big spaces.

The penthouse has drama at every turn, cool touches and shiny surfaces.

£615,000 Urban base

Water’s edge Riverside bolthole or weekend party palace. Bag a two-bedroom apartment at Staithes, Gateshead with airy river views on the fifth floor of The Armstrong building.

£135,000 Sarah Mains

my local Callum Fryer is a civil engineer with Skanska and has just finished his masters degree at Newcastle Uni. He lives in a Quayside flat by the Gateshead side of the Tyne Bridge.

Three good things about living here >> A Sunday morning walk along the quayside market to browse the quaint stalls followed by a coffee in “Great Coffee”.

I love jogging along the quayside towards Heaton on an evening. It is a lively and a vibrant place so there is always plenty to see, whether it’s the sunset views over the Tyne, a group of merry drinkers or some kind of event.

An evening meal at Babucho, followed by a fancy drink or two in Livello, with the potential of ending up in the Quilted Camel for a little dance.

Three things to do with visitors >> UpSide Down Presents - a quirky little gift shop by the Quayside to grab a memento of their visit. You’ll have a laugh in here too with Geordie and Northern themed cards and gifts.

Quay Ingredient - perfect Quayside breakfast spot for the morning after the night before. Open seven days a week.

Hop & Cleaver - for a meat overload followed by a salted caramel and peanut butter cheesecake!

An ‘in the know’ secret >> A little pub right by the flat on the Gateshead quayside. It’s called The Central (Head of Steam). It’s dubbed “the coffin” amongst locals because of its unusual and rather tiny shape. It’s super cosy and the best ale house in town.

is consistently winning accolades for fine breakfast, good coffee and easy lunches.

Opposite, The Great British Cupcakery is a sugar-coated parlour of perfection.

A lovely spacious building tempts the sweet-toothed Bake-off crowd with visually stunning cakes and sweet things.

Extend your trip east and stop off at Cycle Hub for a hearty breakfast before or after the bike hire or zoom along to Ouseburn and try funky, thoughtful food at Ernest behind the Biscuit Factory gallery, which

SEP/OCT15

itself is well worth a stop for lunch at the artisan restaurant.

Head for the urban vibe of eating in a shipping container at Anna Hedworth’s Cook House where you can eat remarkable things on toast.

Under the Tyne Bridge, The Bridge Tavern is a smart brewpub with a clubby intimate feel. Ales brewed in the pub are the main attraction.

Food is hearty, happy and welcoming – try a pie, pint and woodburning fire to sit by.

Settle in for winter.

NEW HOMES REGENERATION We have, in the last few months, experienced a significant improvement in the enquiry levels from builders and developers throughout the region. It is quite apparent from the number of planning permissions that have been granted throughout Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, as well as County Durham, that we will see a dramatic increase in the supply of new homes coming to the market over the next 10 years.

Planning officials have identified a shortage within the North East of England of up to 90,000 homes needed by 2020, and it is clear that we will have to work very hard with builders and developers to ensure that we bring these to the marketplace as quickly as possible.

The benefit of a new home is significant given that it is built to modern-day standards and therefore it reaches the very high energy efficiency levels which are set through the planning controls. This can make new homes not only good value to purchase, but also extremely good value to run. Modern-day electricity, gas and equivalent oil bills can be substantially lower than those for older homes, and this is obviously a consideration when looking at overall monthly budgets.

The late 1990s and the early 2000s saw several thousand new homes being built around the city centres in Newcastle and Sunderland as well as on the water fronts of many of the local town centres and villages. The supply of these dwellings, 10 years on, has decreased and a greater number of these homes have been very successfully let on competitive Buy to Let mortgages, creating a reasonable return and yield for those investors.

Fashions come and go and some of the styles of architecture and design have dramatically improved. I am particularly excited about some of the creative aspects of modern-day living which have brought a very welcoming environment to the living spaces and communal areas within dwellings and public buildings. Seamless glass windows that open up onto gardens or dramatic water-front elevations can bring a tremendous amount of enjoyment to people living within a home, and create effectively a moving window throughout the seasons of quality and peacefulness.

Some of the schemes that we have appraised recently will be launched towards the end of 2015 and I am delighted that our company has once more taken the lead in the region, creating fabulous opportunities for magnificent homes.

Our current stock expands significantly across the region with 12 developments, and offers a variety of inner city apartments, suburban family homes, a diverse choice of beautiful apartments and townhouses in a parkland setting within a short radius of access to Newcastle, and to the north of the region, the magnificent last homes on the highly successful Limes Development by Cussins in Alnwick, which has been one of our flagship schemes throughout 2014 and 2015.

We welcome the increased choice of developments in the region and the diversity of the architecture, efficiency of the running costs and the beauty of living in such contemporary dwellings.

If you are considering a new home in the near future, please contact Sanderson Young and in particular Janet Hopkinson, our Operations Director, who would be very pleased to discuss some of the schemes we have and the waiting list that we are growing for areas where we have particularly exciting and highly sought-after properties.

It appears that we have had a brisk and productive summer throughout the estate agency market and we look forward to working very successfully with our home owners and buyers over the next three months as we lead up to Christmas 2015.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance.

Duncan G Young Dip.Est.Man.FNAEA, Managing Director, Sanderson Young duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk 0191 223 3500

71

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Manhattan

Runnymede Road, Darras Hall A stunning, contemporary property in a prime, village end location within the Darras Hall Estate. This bright and spacious 4 bedroom detached family home has accommodation of approx 4500 sq ft over three floors. Built to a very high standard, features include oak doors, a bespoke curved oak staircase with feature glass atrium, Italian bathroom fittings, under floor heating, comprehensive digital wiring and LED lighting. EPC: B

Guide Price: £1.25 Million

South Lodge

Belle Vue Lane, East Boldon Occupying a site of just under 5.5 acres on the southern boundary of Boldon, is this very grand Grade II listed detached country home with impressive accommodation and beautiful gardens. Built in 1907, this very special six bedroom property is a fine example of ‘Arts & Crafts’ architecture and also benefits from a two bedroom lodge, five double stables, a hay store, varying outbuildings, four paddocks and a disused tennis court. EPC: F

Guide Price: £1.195 Million or £895,000 without The Lodge.

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Jesmond Park West Newcastle

A highly impressive double fronted semi detached house constructed in the early 1900s and occupying a prime location. The six bedroom property has been extensively renovated to a very high standard and has a beautifully fitted contemporary kitchen, luxurious bathrooms, high ceilings, plaster cornicing works and superb interior design. The gardens include lawned areas, a dining area, and a children’s soft play area. EPC: C

Guide Price: £995,000

Washingwell House Front Street, Whickham

Washingwell House, dating back to the mid 18th century, has been greatly renovated and extended to provide a very tasteful family home. The six bedroom property has great character and style with a recently refurbished kitchen/breakfast room, impressive interior design and great natural light. The private grounds include rolling lawns, fabulous borders, a raised vegetable bed, stone terraces, a courtyard and a double garage. EPC: E

Guide Price: £875,000

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

local, regional, national and international specialists in property marketing

THE PADDOCK, THE AVENUE, WYNYARD HALL ESTATE, WYNYARD

£2,650,000

Formerly the Wynyard estate manager’s house at the time of Lord Londonderry’s ownership, the property has been substantially extended to create a unique home with indoor swimming pool set in 42 acres of land and grounds.

WELLINGTON DRIVE, WYNYARD

Contact: 01740 645 444

£445,000

Situated in one of the most popular streets in exclusive Wynyard village, Wellington Drive is an attractive three storey, six bedroom detached property on an excellent plot bordering the golf course.

FULTHORPE GROVE, WYNYARD

Contact: 01740 645 444

£499,950

A family home that combines both character and modern style is a rare find, but a grand design and less conventional construction mean 23 Fulthorpe Grove ticks both boxes. Situated in exclusive Wynyard Village.

Wynyard 01740 645 444

Tyne Valley 0845 459 6000

Contact: 01740 645 444

Newcastle 0845 459 6000

Durham 0191 384 2277

Cumbria 0845 872 5453

residing@fineandcountry.com

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk residing@fineandcountry.com cumbria@fineandcountry.com

creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property

...300 offices worldwide

WEST BARN, HIGH ROAD, REDWORTH

£520,000

West Barn is an authentic, stone-built property, converted 20 years ago and recently updated throughout, it has been transformed into a superb four-bedroom property retaining all the character features of its past.

HESLEDEN HALL, MONK HESLEDEN, HARTLEPOOL, DURHAM

£545,000

The Grade II listed five bedroom property comes with five acres and stabling to meet equestrian needs, as well as offering a superb home of period features with the versatility and potential to individualise it according to a family’s needs.

TEMPEST COURT, WYNYARD

Northumberland 0845 459 6000

sales@fineandcountry-lakes.co.ul

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£425,000

Tempest Court is an exceptional five bedroom detached home, with the addition of a superb sun room extension providing fabulous open plan living, which stands on a lovely, tranquil plot overlooking a lake on the Wellington golf course.

Lakes 01539 733 500

Contact: 0191 384 2277

Contact: 01740 645 444

www.fineandcountry.com Head office: 121 Park Lane, Mayfair, London WIK 7AG.

A BRUM DO

The high life Stay in a piece of modern architectural history. Birmingham’s Rotunda is a Grade II listed building with a funky vibe in a city of surprises, says Kathryn Armstrong If you’ve travelled on the train through Birmingham or visited the city before, the huge cloud-grazing Rotunda in the city centre is a recognisable landmark.

The circular high-rise has grown up to become a towering symbol of Birmingham’s on-going cityscape revolution.

Once, its location by a then-grubby Bullring shopping centre was unlovely and unwelcoming.

Today Rotunda goes by the name of Staying Cool where the top floors of this uber-tube are given over to stylish boutique apartments while lower floors are soughtafter residential homes in their very desirable city centre location.

How does Zara sound as your convenience store on the ground floor? M&S food hall a short hop or the curvy contours of the snail-shaped Selfridges building a very near neighbour?

Staying Cool apartments have won loads of awards and it’s easy to see why. They offer great accommodation in design-savvy surroundings and a service with much thought added.

A head for heights is good. On the 18th floor the full-length windows actually slide all the way back (the thought is making my tummy flip just writing about them) – about as bold

76

a design as is legal – there are waist-high safety barriers too, I might add. It all makes for some gasp-worthy views over the sprawl of the city and its surroundings.

Rotunda was designed in 1961 by architect James Roberts as an office block – the original plans included a rotating restaurant at the top, a Vegas touch which never happened.

In the 1990s, demolition was threatened but local opposition and the work of English Heritage saved the building and it was granted Grade-II listed status before architects Urban Splash took on the redevelopment.

There is much attention not only to design detail but also to the touches that make a city break work.

Apartments are white and modern with easy-use stuff like a convenient kitchen which has a basket of fresh oranges and a juicer waiting for you, two kinds of coffee maker and fresh coffee for each. Plus milk in the fridge and really lovely toiletries in big bottles in the bathroom.

In an homage to the area’s car-making heritage accommodation goes by the name of mini, clubman, maxi and roadster penthouse.

Retro-style photography has been commissioned for the apartments and the furnishings are design-led and super-comfy.

FACTFILE Staying Cool apartments in Birmingham www.stayingcool.com/Birmingham Information on things to do in the city www.visitbirmingham.com

SEP/OCT15

A BRUM DO Cityscape>> Top to bottom: The Jaguar Experience, The Custard Factory, Cricket at Edgbaston, Canalside at Brindley Place

What they’ve done is think of somewhere they’d like to live in a city – then made it happen. It’s something of a ‘blow the budget’ approach which is a nice surprise.

Furniture is from up-and-coming designers and studios, for which they namecheck Naughtone and Anne Kyyrö, as well as sourced original pieces which are then refurbished – such as Eames, Jacobsen and Panton pieces.

In fact it is like staying in the home of your coolest child-free friend who doesn’t have to worry about practicality and whose place is awash with designer names like Timorous Beasties, Tom Dixon and Paul Smith.

As for sleeping pleasure, sink into beds pocket sprung with memory foam.

So that’s your shut-eye and late-night glass of wine-meets-view all sorted.

What to do in Birmingham?

There’s loads. You can max out on shopping at the likes of Harvey Nichols and Selfridges or my own favourite, the glorious Cos. The Bullring is a shopping wonder and a lavish John Lewis opens later this year, pretty much adding the final touch to what has been a major city centre development out from New Street Station.

The Jewellery Quarter is home to more than 100 specialists and craftspeople. Part of the appeal of going direct to makers is that many have workshops on the premises, so a special gift can be commissioned on site.

It’s home to a buzzing arts scene with galleries, wedding shops and fashion specialists mingling with restaurants, serving everything from Neapolitan to Nepalese

Apartments are like staying in the home of your coolest childfree friend who doesn’t have to worry about practicality cuisine. For a drink and a dance St Paul’s Square is home to Jools Holland’s legendary Jam House and Après in Summer Row. Birmingham is home to more canals than Venice (remember TV’s Rosie&Jim on that barge as a kid?) and the area around Brindley Place makes the most of this heritage with waterside bars and restaurants.

This area links to the city’s vibrant Symphony Hall (a good range of concerts similar to Sage, Gateshead) and the ICC arena – and the Sealife Centre if you have small people to please…

Worth a trot a bit farther afield are bustling suburbs like Harborne and Edgbaston. The former is more Jesmond-like with a student presence and bistros, good eating places and the cool School Yard re-development of a gorgeous red brick school now home to shops and good eating places.

Edgbaston is the place for cricket but it’s also the city’s most exclusive residential area. Try a visit to the glorious Botanic Gardens.

COOL THINGS TO DO IN BIRMINGHAM >> > The city’s lavish new library looks like a jewelled chocolate box – inside you can listen to music from a comfy armchair, play a public piano or have a game of ping pong.

Choose a book of course – or take to the roof terraces for dazzling city views. > Gaze at one of the best Pre-Raphaelite

SEP/OCT15

collections in the world, at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery where The Staffordshire Hoard is also on display. > For contemporary art, Ikon Gallery is the place to head - a nice place to mooch and stop for coffee. > The Custard Factory is the place to find independent shops, galleries and a Saturday vintage flea market. > Lose yourself in a planetarium show at the impressive Thinktank. > Explore the Arts & Crafts wonder of Winterbourne House and Garden. > Car fans can head for the Jaguar Experience & Visitor centre in nearby Castle Bromwich.

No ordinary factory. Built in 1936 to produce the iconic Spitfire fighter that defended Britain against the Luftwaffe, Castle Bromwich has been the home of Jaguar since 1977, and today produces the XJ luxury flagship and the thrilling F-TYPE sports car.

Everyone, whether petrolhead or youngster, will enjoy seeing these sleek machines coming together and hearing the rasp of their V6 and V8 engines as they come to life.

“It’s like a toy factory for grown-ups,” as one visitor put it. > Visit Britain’s oldest working cinema, The Electric, and treat yourself to a ticket for an indie film and enjoy waiter service to your private sofa.

CITY EATS >> > We were impressed by Pushkar in the bustling Broad Street, a real blingy affair with some of the best Indian food we’ve ever eaten. It’s all cream leather and slick interiors with a blingy cocktail bar and live music spilling out on to the pavement.

Outstanding luscious and different dishes and brilliant service. Recommended is the Qasoori Methis Murgh, a tender chicken breast dish with fresh fenugreek and garlic.

Also, Acari Gosht, semi-dry lamb in a piquant sauce of pickling spices, ginger and tomatoes, tempered with whole red chilli, mustard seeds, kalonji and fresh curry leaves. If you like the combo of glamorous cocktails with your curry and a spot of people-watching, this is definitely the place. www.pushkardining.com > By comparison, head for balti food in no-frills surroundings, plastic chairs, naan the size of a table and bring your own booze. Awesome food, great value. Balti Triangle is the centre of Asian cuisine.

Bringing together the Sparkbrook, Balsall Heath and Moseley areas of the city. www.balti-birmingham.co.uk > Inspiring cookery classes from sourdough baking to patisserie to whole-hog charcuterie. www.loafonline.co.uk > A taste of Thai in the suburbs, head to Harborne high street for a Thai extravaganza at Sabai Sabai. Refined Thai tastes, especially good seafood combinations and as much heat as you like. www.sabaisabai-restaurant.co.uk > Wine tasting with a difference. Loki is a cosy, tucked-away wine bar in a Victorian arcade in the city centre. At any one time you can taste up to 40 wines by the glass, using specially imported wine preservation machines. You can taste each wine from as little as 69p a sample or get a wine tasting card from £10 then sip your way though the bottles until you find a favourite! www.lokiwine.co.uk > Birmingham’s four Michelin starred restaurants: Turners in Harborne; Purnell’s and Adam’s in the city centre and Simpsons restaurant in Edgbaston.

77

XXXXXXXX DEB DIVES IN

GLITZY DAYS Hip hotels with Debrah Dhugga Deb has a Jane Austen moment in the Georgian city of Bath where she takes the restorative waters in a dazzling spa

For centuries, the city of Bath has been the go-to destination for people to take restorative spa waters. Jane Austen would have loved this place! luxurious burl wood in-laid wardrobes and dramatic draperies that frame the tall windows.

The rooms are flooded by natural light and promise to charm guests with the sumptuous furnishings and warm ambience.

I love it when I find a great hotel in the UK and I sure have found one Luxe readers will love. The Gainsborough Bath Spa has just opened its doors and is the first and only hotel in the UK to offer visitors an onsite natural thermal spa.

It means you can dive in to Bath’s famed natural thermal waters in an incredible spa. It’s a modern-day take on the Roman Bath Circuit in real natural thermal waters, combined with brand new world-class gourmet experiences for the city.

In a city so beloved of Jane Austen, I just know she would have loved this incarnation of ‘taking the waters’.

you can play with a plethora of lotions and potions to blend a bespoke product.

The Spa works with the lovely organic brand Neal’s Yard and there’s also spa suite for couples.

COOL DESIGN The 99-room hotel has been designed by a New York-based design firm Champalimaud Design, to pay homage to the building’s fascinating history and Georgian characteristics in creating a modern interpretation of a classic design. All very Jaune Austen!

The design of each guest room is bespoke with details such as delicious two poster beds and playful toile antimacassars depicting traditional Bath scenes, to the marble bathrooms,

EATING The Gainsborough Bath Spa partners with world-renowned Austrian chef, Johann Lafer, as he lends his name to the hotel’s restaurant Johann Lafer, one of the country’s most celebrated Michelin-starred chefs. English products with the very best of Asian flavours to create innovative dishes. You won’t be disappointed - great food.

Chequers, a top gastro pub is a 15-minute stroll from the hotel, great for dinner with a lovely atmosphere. There is also the nearby Pump House which does great lunches.

LOCATION The Gainsborough Bath Spa is, as you might expect, in the centre of the ancient Roman city of Bath on Beau Street, minutes away from the city’s shopping and restaurant districts, the Theatre Royal and historical Roman Baths and directly opposite the Thermae Bath Spa. A five-minute walk from the Bath Spa train station, this new spa hotel is accessible by car but if you’re travelling by train, get to King’s Cross then it’s a one hour and 20 minute train journey from London Paddington to Bath Spa. Enjoy.

Nightly rates at The Gainsborough Bath Spa start from £285 on a room-only basis. www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

SPA VILLAGE BATH >> For centuries, the city of Bath has been the go-to destination for people to take restorative spa waters.

Now the hotel has made it possible for everyone to be able to check-in, pop on robe and slippers then retreat into the health-giving thermal pools.

The hotel’s private water reserve bubbles to the surface at 47 degrees centigrade, packed full of rich natural minerals, for the guests to reap the benefits.

Reviving the ancient practice of social bathing, The Gainsborough Bath Spa has created a one-hour ‘Bath Circuit’.

This is a ritualised, self-guided tour of the thermal pools, saunas, steam room, ice alcove and elegant relaxation rooms. Visitors will embark on a bathing journey akin to ancient Rome, concluding with a very special Water Ritual Ceremony. Three thermal pools lie in the heart of the spa set apart by Romanesque columns and beneath a glass atrium.

It is truly fabulous.

Each hotel guest has complimentary access to the spa.

I enjoyed a 90-minute Magnesium Wrap. Magnesium is an important mineral, best absorbed through the skin, responsible for promoting energy levels, sleep, circulation, metabolism and muscle movement. This relaxing therapeutic treatment helps to replenish commonly deficient levels.

Body tissues relax and pores take in the vital minerals from the products. The treatment included a body scrub, massage and wrap; I was truly glowing!

Enjoy a little fun and be creative at the Aroma Bar where

78

SEP/OCT15

BOW WOW XXXXXXXX FACTOR

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Our posh pooch is looking forward to cooling off as the nights draw in and the falling leaves and muddy fields give him something to get his paws into.

Alfie’s summer came to a close with a trip to Yorkshire where he stayed with family and his little pooch cousin, Archie. He enjoyed Yorkshire’s top walking destinations, trips to the allotment with granddad to collect goodies for his teatime treats, and playdates every day with Archie the Border Terrier who keeps him on his toes.

As much as he loves the sunny summer, Alfie looks forward to cooler nights and shorter days. His favourite fields have been trimmed so he doesn’t get lost in the corn (and we can keep an eye on him if he’s feeling mischievous), there are fewer restricted doggy zones on the beach now that the kids have gone back to school and all the more goodies in and around the house as comfort food replaces salads!

Alfie has a trip to Northumberland to look forward to in November. He can’t wait to take on Holy Island, roam the grounds of Bamburgh Castle and seek out the finest fish and chips.

Enjoy your autumn months and keep us posted with any fun doggy-filled activities you and your four-legged friend get up to…

Alfie, your Luxe Pooch x

Luxe Pooch Q&A

Alfie loves

>> It’s a dog’s life…

A place for designer dreams if ever there was one. Cecil dog bed from sofa.com is designed by homeware designer Fenella Smith, the perfect new-season addition for any chic home. It’s washable with removable covers and comes in four different super cute patterns, including dachshund and pug fabric. With every bed sold, sofa. com will donate £23 to Dogs Trust.

“Woof, woof, please human?”

>> Dog lovers wanted!

Can you give a pet a holiday home? The team at Barking Mad is on the lookout for people to add to its team of home-from-home holiday dog carers in the region.

Barking Mad is an alternative to kennels with an experienced local team. Carrie Jarvis covers the Newcastle and Tyne Valley, Tracy Johnston has taken on the Cleveland, Teesside and Darlington patch and they join Sue Seward in Tyne and Wear and Tina Young who looks after mid, north and south-east Northumberland.

Both Carrie and Sue were Barking Mad customers before taking on their franchised businesses and Tina won the HSBC Franchisee of the Year Award last year.

The Barking Mad team place dogs in a family home whilst the owners are on holiday, they arrange an initial consultation so that they can meet the dog and hear all about their routines at home. They then select the perfect host family to meet the dog’s needs. Owners are given regular updates whilst their pet is on holiday ensuring peace of mind.

Barking Mad host families are always needed so get in touch. www.barkingmad.uk.com or contact www.facebook.com/BarkingMadDogCare

Hair stylist Michael Young of Hooker&Young has been in pup heaven for the past few weeks with this cute bunch of bulldog pups – a small collection of his and husband Gary’s 14-strong canine family. We caught up with them to see what they’ve been up to in their early days…

LUXE WALKS >> We have land so our pooches enjoy an outdoor life, but we also live in the middle of a nature reserve so we have many lovely walks on our doorstep too.

POOCH’S PALATE >> We really spoil them so every day is a treat, anything from roast beef to a roast chicken! So good I could eat it myself!

LUXE DOGGY HOLS >> We have a full time nanny, Ashley, for our pampered pooches so when we are working away or on holiday they stay at home which is great, as their routine doesn’t change.

DOG BEST FRIEND >> I think it’s fair to say that all of our pooches are slightly obsessed with Ashley. She spends all day every day with them so has an incredibly strong bond. Ashley actually says that her best friend is Bailey the Great Dane.

DOGGY DOWNTIME >> They all get so excited when we get home on an evening as they like nothing more than a night in front of the TV with their daddies. They all have their favorite spot where they like to lie.

DOGGY HABITS >> They all have their own funny little ways!

It would take forever to list them all!

Bailey, one of our Great Danes, talks to us every morning, I can nearly understand her!

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> They love going out together and are not really bothered where that is as long as they are together as one happy family.

PUPPY PAMPER >> Most of our pooches are short haired so Ashley, our dog nanny, pretty much takes care of all the grooming.

SEP/OCT15

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> We’ve had so many dogs over the years, with some amazing memories made along the way - from winning at Crufts to breeding the top-winning Great Dane of all time - to some lovely funny moments with some great characters.

PUPPY A-LISTER. WHO WOULD YOUR POOCH BE IF HE/SHE WERE A CELEBRITY? >> Again that’s a tough one when you have 14 dogs! Saying that, we have quite a lot of divas in the pack, so I reckon we’ve got a Mariah and J-Lo amongst them!

A PUPPY TREAT >> They all go mad for cheese! If I’m cooking and there’s cheese on the go, you’d think I was giving away gold.

79

XXXXXXXX BIGGER LUXE

WELCOME!

Fairy dust, sweet treats and diary dates...

I’m writing this deep in the summer holidays and I’ve reached that magic point where I’ve forgotten what day of the week it is, when I last thought about homework or what the word bedtime actually means. Grown-ups around me seem busy still with boring chores but in the world of Sylvanian Families, Polly Pockets, scooters and Minecraft there’s no time for such stresses and dullness. Actually that’s not completely true, I did push myself to draw a picture and write my address for a new pen pal I made on holiday but I’m hoping she writes the first letter so I’ve more time to create more memories to report to her...

Nina’s diary

Nina loves Could you give a real fairy a home?

I have!

I invited a fairy to come and live with me and she’s just moved in! I installed one of the cute wooden doors sent from myownfairy.com in the ‘yarden’ at the back of my house. I was sent a magic key, some fairy dust and an invitation to let all available fairies know I was offering comfortable accommodation!

I set up my little fairy door, decorated with stickers and some cute stepping stones, sprinkled a little fairy dust and left out the key for a fairy to take when I went to bed.

The next morning the key was gone and Sugar Petal had moved in! She signed her name on my welcome letter and is probably busy sipping morning dew smoothies in her new home right now.

classy stuff

>> Maths wall c loc

>> SEPTEMBER 3-6 Dig for Victory at Beamish. My favourite museum is recruiting for a brand new event – The Great North Festival of Agriculture. War is upon the Beamish 1940s farm and visitors will get a chance to get involved in loads of activities to help ‘dig for victory!’ beamish.org.uk >> SEPTEMBER 27 A wildlife celebration with Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Kirkley Hall, Ponteland.

Join TV presenter Lolo Williams from Springwatch and Countryfile to celebrate the wonderful wildlife of Northumberland!

Fill up with a BBQ lunch then get involved with hands-on workshops and demonstrations on everything from taxidermy and wildlife drawing to wildlife handling. nwt.org.uk

80

>> Neon rainbow crayons. £3.99. thegiftoasis.co.uk

egiftoasis.co.uk . th

A new teacher, new shoes and new pencils… although I’m loving the summer holidays, there’s a lot to look forward to when it comes to back to school time!

The larger Luxes have been doing a spot of homework on my behalf and I’m told this year’s trends are all about bright, smart and practical. Here are a few of our favourites. >> Madpax Later Gator Backpack. £58. Pinksumo.com

k. £1 99 4.

>> SECOND SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH Newcastle Kids’ Comedy Club at The Stand. I’ve had this on my to-do list for aaaages and I’m hoping September is the month I tick it off. Mum and dad love The Stand and when we were there for lunch I spotted a flyer for this monthly event that’s suitable for children and adults of all ages (though they do say it’s best suited for eight-to-12-year-olds). It promised some of the world’s best comedy, circus, storytelling, poetry and stupid science. thestand.co.uk

Little Luxe x

>> Traditional school milk bottle. £4.50. cotsworldtrading.com

with Nina Robinson

Calling all aspiring OompaLoompas!

Ever fancied going behind the scenes and tasting your way around a real chocolate factory? Silly question right?!

Imagine my delight when I landed my own golden ticket to do just that during one of the special events held by fancy chocolate-makers Davenport’s Chocolates in Gateshead.

The talented chocolatiers regularly host studio tours and workshops to give children and adults alike a chance to step inside a real working chocolate factory. On these special occasions the public is invited to taste the beautiful creations, watch demos and even have a go at making some of their own chocolates.

I went along to one of the children’s workshops during the summer holidays and had a go at creating some cute chocolatey creatures and a giant lollipop. My mouth is watering thinking back to the amazing smell of the factory as we stepped through the doors, the sight of the delicate little sweeties being smothered in warm luscious chocolate and the endless shelves of boxes containing all kinds of sweet treats.

Davenport’s are often out and about selling their chocolates at local markets and you can buy direct from their website too. Check it out for more information on the next special events. davenportschocolates.co.uk

Postcard from Newcastle Castle Ever wondered where the city of Newcastle got its name? Now I can tell you, having just visited Newcastle Castle...

We’ve been planning a trip to the Black Gate and Newcastle Castle Keep ever since they reopened in May after a massive revamp and I’m pleased to say we’ve finally made it!

The place is packed with interesting (some grim and grisly) stories about what it was like to live there and the things that went on behind those huge stone walls … And a climb up one of the spiralling staircases leads to the most amazing views of the city. We stood for ages watching the trains heading in and out of Central Station, spotting landmarks like St James’ Park and Eldon Square and admiring the bridges stretching over the Tyne.

It’s well worth a visit when you’re next in the Toon for some family time!

Newcastlegateshead.com

SEP/OCT15

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Princess tippy-toes

You might already have been in that schoolshoe queue? Make it more bearable with the promise of a tiara for the toes with these touch-of -glam Lelli Kelly shoes for little feet. ÂŁ49.90 www.charlesclinkard.co.uk

SEP/OCT15

81

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES SPLASH OUT Laura Ashley takes to the bathroom with its classically elegant Langham range. Key detail includes curved pilasters, subtle beading and soft cotton white hand-painted finish for a bygone touch that is perfect in a period home. www.tecaz.com

82

SEP/OCT15

golf:kit Star-spotting days, exotic destinations and gadgetry for a successful swing…

STAY, PLAY, SPA >> Exotic surroundings, stunning courses and a restful spa. A fine golfing combo in Thailand The Sarojin resort has launched an impressive luxury six-night golf package for guests to tee off in style at the brand new, 18-hole championship Katathong Golf Course, which opened in picturesque Phang Nga earlier this year.

Newly-developed Katathong Golf Course is just a short drive from The Sarojin and is surrounded by three stunning, misty mountains. The 72-par course offers lush green mountain views from every angle with courses that following the natural contours of the land featuring undulating hills, sand traps and a beautiful natural reservoir with an abundance of natural waterfalls and streams.

As part of The Sarojin’s new golf package, guests will transfer by luxury car to practise their swing with two rounds of 18-hole golf for two people at Katathong Golf Course.

The Sarojin is ideally placed within easy reach of a further four 18-hole golf courses in southern Thailand: Tap La Mu, situated next to the beach; Blue Canyon, flanked by rubber plantations; Ratchaprapa Dam, surrounded by a natural lake; and Mission Hills, a Jack Nicklaus designed course nestled among coastal mangrove forests.

At The Sarojin there are indulgent treatments at the resort’s award-winning spa, superb cuisine at two gourmet restaurants or a dip in the hotel’s infinity-edged pool – or 11km of white sand beach.

The Sarojin’s new, six-night golf package start from approximately £1,272 for two people, not including flights. www.sarojin.com

STEADY HAND NEEDED? >>

KNOTTY ISSUES

THE MAN CORNER WITH REEF SALONS

TOP KNOT OR NOT...

There’s been a lot of controversy about the top knot or man bun “the mun”, which started to come to life in 2013.

It has proved the hottest hair trend for guys in 2014 and is hanging on in for summer 2015 for the chaps who just won’t let their hair down - we don’t see it going anywhere yet.

Whether you wear it slick and tight for that more formal occasion with a smart suit and tie or loose and natural for an everyday look with light jeans and a white t-shirt, it seems there are no boundaries when it come to styling your man bun.

There have been studies asking women what they think of the man bun and here are the results: • 62.9% of women surveyed either dislike or hate the man bun • 58% said they wouldn’t date a man with a bun • 74% said their current or past significant other would not look attractive with a man bun These are quite strong percentages of women who say they dislike or won’t date a man with the man bun but with Brad Pitt to Leonardo DiCaprio channelling the look, they may change their mind.

Those who wear the top knot say it’s a style of ease that is both practical and fashionable.

One of those things you either like or you don’t - but for now it’s here to stay.

>> The Zepp Golf Swing Analyser tracks your swing style, your speed and gives you tips on getting better to improve your game. Golf gadgetry at its best. £129.99 John Lewis.

STARRY TURNS & TEES >> The star-spotter’s golf tournament. The 15th Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at historic St Andrews tees off October 1-4.

A world class field of golf pros team up with some of the biggest names from entertainment and sport.

It’s the place to spot the likes of Bill Murray, Damien Lewis, Jamie Dornan, Hugh Grant and Andy Garcia – names that have shared the fairways with sporting greats like Sir Steve Redgrave, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Ian Botham, Shane Warne, Michael Phelps, Luis Figo, Johan Cruyff and Jamie Redknapp.

They have partnered some of the world’s top golfers including Rory McIlroy, Luke Donald, Dustin Johnson, Darren Clarke, Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer, Colin Montgomerie, Ernie Els, Paul Casey, Padraig Harrington, Louis Oosthuizen and Branden Grace.

The Alfred Dunhill Links is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the European Tour, a celebration of links golf at its finest played over three links courses - the Old Course (St Andrews), the Championship Course, Carnoustie (near Dundee) and Kingsbarns (10km south of St Andrews).

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is the only professional tournament played every year over the Old Course. The 2014 Championship was won by Oliver Wilson, who will be back in St Andrews in October to defend his title.

Admission is free for all spectators over the first three days with final day tickets £20.

SEP/OCT15

Reef Durham, Ramside Hall Hotel and Country Club, Durham, Co. Durham DH1 1TD. 0191 386 3055 www.reefsalons.co.uk

83

LUXE LAPS

PHIL TERNENT Fabulous cars are a personal passion and other people’s pleasure for Phil Ternent who runs Northumbria Classic Car Hire from his base in Gosforth CHILDHOOD CAR CRUSH >> Auntie Marion used to take me to Boydells once a week to buy a Dinky or Corgi model car. I remember getting my James Bond Aston Martin DB5 with ejector seat and tyre-slicing device. I also had an E-Type model which I loved.

WHAT’S IN THE GARAGE NOW >> My day-to-day car is a BMW i3. This is their electric car, I’ve been driving electric cars for over four years. The version we have has a range extender petrol motor which when needed powers a generator that keeps the battery topped up. It’s a brilliant car, great fun to drive and really practical. Been all over in it including as far as Stansted. Noticed Rowan Atkinson has replaced his McLaren with one last month. The other cars are all now used for our business Northumbria Classic Car Hire. There’s 2 E-Types, a dark blue 1970 fixed head coupe 4.2litre which I’ve owned since 1991 and a British racing green 1969 roadster. Very pretty looking cars and still superb to drive. There are also 2 Targa-top cars from 1973, a Porsche 911E and a BMW 2002. Targa top cars offer the best of both worlds, a convertible for sunny days or a fixed roof for typical North East days. I enjoy driving all of the classic cars on days out up the coast or into the Cheviots.

IF YOU COULD OWN ANY CAR >> Probably a lightweight Jaguar E-Type, even one of the six replicas going on sale this year for over £1 million. It doesn’t need to be one of the £5 million originals!

CAPTAIN SLOW OR JEREMY? >> I talk very slowly my friends tell me – but I like to have

84

some fun in the car when it’s OK to do so; I’ve been out in my E-Type roadster today to go to a Jaguar dealer to test drive an F-Type with a friend. Also testing our 73 BMW 2002 cabriolet after some carburettor adjustments – there was some fun to be had in all of them!

WHO SHOULD PRESENT TOP GEAR? >> A bit biased but Brian Johnson from AC/DC did a good job on his TV show Cars that Rock. He’s got the character, knowledge and reputation to be able to succeed in Jeremy’s shoes.

TRACKS OF YOUR TYRES >> Don’t really bother to listen to music in any of the classic cars as they sound so good all by themselves, especially the Porsche 911e with the Targa top off.

In the electric BMW 13 it’s normally from Spotify, a real mix – Zeppelin, Jungle, Blues, all sorts – often stuff I’ve heard on the Bob Harris Sunday morning show.

DREAM ROAD TRIP >> I would love to drive down to the Amalfi coast in Italy with my wife, she also loves Italy and suffers classic cars. But I’d probably want to drive our 1973 911 Targa from Newcastle, across on a ferry to Amsterdam then through Germany into Italy.

We recently were on holiday in Sardinia in a standard hire car – but I always look for the green roads on the map, which are the scenic ones. We were driving along a beautiful winding road when we reached the brow of a hill on a blind bend we were flagged down by a young couple waving us to stop. We thought there must have been an accident so slowed to a stop. When they ushered us slowly around the

bend we discovered the reason for the holdup - three brand new Mercedes sports cars, worth roughly £100 – £150K each parked in a layby ready to race up the road for a photo shoot when the coast was clear. Now that is the sort of place I’d like to be drive one of my classics.

WHAT’S ON THE WISH LIST? >> I have a vision of buying an Ivory or a cream Morris Minor convertible with red and white leather interior and a burgundy hood. Nothing too fast but beautifully quirky and ideal for tootling around Northumberland.

WHAT’S IN THE GLOVE BOX? >> Depends on the car! The i3 - boiled sweets in a tin box for when you need something sweet and Northumbria Classic Car Hire brochures to hand out here and there. The classic cars have owner’s handbook and help sheet on how to put the hood up etc.

MEMORABLE CAR MOMENTS >> Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of driving lots of the local roads and country lanes in classic cars, especially when pursuing my other interest of fishing. Often driving back on a warm evening in the dark with the top down and a few trout in the boot. On holiday we always hire a car, lately upgrading to convertibles. The drives around Puglia in ancient olive groves and beautiful coastline were particularly memorable with great views and lovely scents and smells.

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR CAR >> The i3 is fairly clean as it was recently in for a software upgrade and the dealer always gives it a valet. The classic cars are kept very clean, ready for the next hire.

SCARY MOMENTS? >> Nothing in recent years, touch wood. I’ve had a few scares in the past including seeing a wheel go past me in the outside lane on the A19 in the dark, only to realise I was travelling on 3 wheels. Most of my really scary moments were on two wheels on motorbikes.

Northumbria Classic Car Hire www.northumbriaclassics.com

SEP/OCT15

BMW M Range

The Ultimate Driving Machine

FROM THE RACETRACK TO THE ROAD. DISCOVER THE WORLD OF THE BMW M RANGE AT LLOYD NEWCASTLE. To any true driving enthusiast, the simple mention of the letter M instantly captures their attention and evokes feelings of excitement.

Established in May 1972 with just eight employees, the BMW M division began a tradition of taking learnings from the racetrack and applying them to the road, with all BMW M models being tested and tuned on the world-famous Nürburgring circuit in Germany.

Now, over forty years later, the BMW M range includes everything from the exhilarating new BMW M4 Convertible, M4 Coupé and M3 Saloon to the luxurious new BMW M6 range and four-wheel drive BMW X5 and X6M. No wonder then that this one simple letter has the power to inspire such extraordinary passion.

To find out more or to book a test drive†, please call 0191 261 7366 or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk

Lloyd Newcastle

Fenham Barracks Newcastle Upon Tyne NE2 4LE Official fuel economy figures for the BMW M Range: Urban 19.2-25.4mpg (14.7-11.1l/100km). Extra Urban 31.4-42.2mpg (9.0-6.7l/100km).

Combined 25.4-34.0mpg (11.1-8.3l/100km). CO2 emissions 173-189g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. †

Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

DRIVETIME

AT THE WHEEL Motors man Bob Arora plays with some serious cars

Operation supercar Range Rover is more than having a moment so for fans out there, here’s the show-stopper

My dad used to work at Ford in Dagenham and apart from a Ford (obviously) his favourite car was always the Range Rover. The Range Rover never really appealed to me - it was just such a big old beast that wasn’t very nice to drive at all.

Back in 2005 Land Rover decided to introduce a car that was going to take on the class leading X5. The Range Rover Sport was introduced and it went on to become a real sales phenomenon. Waiting lists grew and the car was a real cash cow for Land Rover. Owners were selling cars for a profit and even used cars were not losing money at all.

At my current gym the car of choice for everyone is the Range Rover or the Sport. When I first joined the BMW X5 was the car of choice. The only problem now is Range Rovers were always a rare sight on the road but with the introduction of the Evoque and the Sport I personally think an Alfa is a rarer sight on the roads.

When the Sport was introduced it was a revelation to drive, not only was it great to drive on the road it was also very capable off-road too. The range-topping Supercharger was a great car to drive but it wasn’t quite as focused as the Cayenne Turbo: this 4x4 was like a 911 on stilts. Fast forward ten years and Land Rover have taken the bold step of introducing not only the most expensive but the most powerful Range Rover Sport ever in the guise of the SVR. This car has been created by a special operations department, their clear aim is to take on Audi with their Quattro division, BMW with their M division and Mercedes with their AMG division.

I was amazed to read that in America alone last year over half a million people became millionaires last year. When

86

you factor in China and India’s new millionaires there is obviously a captive market for this amazing car. This car has been fitted with a 5.0lt V8 engine that produces 542 bhp and its top speed is 162mph and it hits 62mph in 4.7 seconds. It’s Range Rovers first real competitor to the Cayenne Turbo S, ML AMG 63 and the X5M. The Cayenne Turbo S is still a faster car but the turbochargers don’t sound as good as the engine and exhaust in the SVR. The car sounds more like a Jaguar F Type, which if you have driven one you will know that’s not a bad thing at all. The car’s price starts at £93,000 but the car I drove had quite a few extras and its price jumped up to £108,000. The standard SVR is over £10,000 more expensive than an Autobiography, putting both cars together and the subtle sporty changes just make the SVR look amazing.

The car has been given quite a sporty makeover with SVR badging, enlarged front intakes, revised front bumper. This car also gets new grilles on the nose, bonnet and the front wings. A sporty roof spoiler, rear valance, rear diffuser and quad pipes help make the car look the business. The optional 22” wheels are an expensive option at £2400 but cars fitted with them really did look the part. Despite the larger alloys suiting the car they also improve wet weather performance over the 21” alloys.

The new sporty look make the car look like it’s had the magic touch from the Overfinch or one of the many other aftermarket specialists. Believe me when this car approaches you from behind it looks very menacing indeed. The 8-speed gearbox has been programmed to give the car much sportier changes. Land Rover have also fitted an electronic locking rear differential; this helps give the car enhanced traction and much more directional control. Power can be either sent 100% to either the front or rear wheels. The standard air suspension has been reprogrammed to trade ride comfort for grip.

The Sport’s interior has always been a totally stunning place to be sitting over distances, the extra bolstering for the seats just adds to the special feel of the car. The interior still beats all of its competitors hands down. Over long distances this car is more of a comfortable 4 seater. Spending a few days in this car and you can’t but love it.

The SVR can only be described as a fantastic car for long journeys, the sound of the engine makes you want to really drive this car hard and to its full potential.

At the time of writing this, the SVR is demanding premiums of around £20,000 for any lucky owners with the foresight to buy one.

Car supplied by Land Rover

This car has been created by a ‘special operations department’, their clear aim is to take on Audi with their Quattro division, BMW with their M division and Mercedes with their AMG division SEP/OCT15

SITTING PRETTY

PLEASURE ZONE Mazda’s MX5 is a zippy crowd-pleaser. A plaything with lashings of personality

After leaving school, my first interview was for a junior salesman at Mazda, Newcastle. I remember arriving nervously at the garage and I thought I’d done really well. Having been a fan of all things cars, this would have been the ideal job for me. Well, I didn’t get the job but the guy who did only lasted a week. I never got the call to go back so my dream job never came to fruition. Had I got the call then a life in the restaurant industry may have never beckoned at all... so, everything happens for a reason.

My first Mazda was the 626 which I think was a 2lt petrol engine, mated to an automatic gearbox. It was totally reliable, never missed a beat in the year I owned it; it wasn’t the best looking car in the world nor was it the best to drive. It was much less common than the Mondeo, and its trump card compared to the 3 series, had to be the standard equipment which would have been expensive options in the BMW. This brings me on to the car I have really enjoyed driving.

The designers at Mazda wanted to build a two-seater roadster that had an engine at the front and was rear wheel drive. The original MX5 was launched in 1989.

No frills and an amazing car to drive. It was based on the Lotus Elan but being a Mazda it was very reliable.

Mazda have managed to make the world’s bestselling

2-seat sports car in the world, but after driving the car for a few days it’s easy to see why they have such a sales phenomenon on their hands.

With no competition it’s no wonder Mazda aim to clean up the market with the MX5. This latest 4th generation car is the best looking MX5 yet. The car is actually 10mm lower and 15mm shorter than the outgoing model. The overhangs have been reduced by 45mm at each end and the car now has a more muscular stance on the road. All of this helps give the perfect proportions and its fabulous new look. The thin front headlights and new front grille help give the front of the car a really aggressive look.

It’s actually smaller and about 100kg lighter than the outgoing model. The car’s bonnet has been lowered by 28mm and the A pillars have been moved back 70mm; both of these changes help improve forward visibility. There’s the choice of either a 1.5lt engine or a 2.0lt engine, both of which are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The pick of the engines for me is the 1.5lt with its softer spring set up and its rev-happy engine.

The car’s clutch is so light and easy to use, mated to a beautiful 6-speed manual with short throw changes that make driving even in heavy traffic a real joy.

This car was made for twisty country roads, driving it energetically you’ll be smiling from ear to ear.

Despite not having the most powerful engine, this car has the right amount of punch to make driving in and out of corners enjoyable.

Despite the larger engine only costing an extra £850, in this instance the smaller engine is the best choice all day long.

Stepping inside the car and you are greeted with an iPad style screen on the dashboard, which is controlled by a rotary dial on the centre console. With most cars having very complex looking dashboards, Mazda have gone down the less-is-more route. Simple rotary dials control the climate control. The car’s door tops are coloured to match the car’s exterior.

Unlike most convertibles this car has a fabric roof with no motors so opening and closing the roof is literally a one-handed operation. An automatic roof is likely to be introduced later in the year. The car’s boot space isn’t massive but there is more than enough room for a couple of small cases or a few weekend bags.

The MX5 harks back to an age of driving where power wasn’t the be-all-and-end-all. It makes driving a real joy.

The car is priced from £19,000 and it really seems a total steal. Not only looking good but it’s such a fun car to drive I can see why it is the world’s bestselling two seater roadster.

Car supplied by Mazda UK

This latest 4th generation car is the best looking MX5 yet. The overhangs have been reduced by 45mm at each end and the car now has a more muscular stance on the road

SEP/OCT15

87

Q-TIPS

Starting gun for the SUV race

Audi launches the second generation all new Q7 following its introduction 10 years ago.

It’s been worth the wait, says Bob Arora

There are few car launches that have created the same level of frenzied anticipation as the new Audi Q7. First previewed back in March via a selection of unusually detailed press photos, Audi’s premium SUV has had the likes of the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLE in its sights for some time now, and it’s finally time to pull the trigger.

It’s hard to believe that Audi have only been producing SUVs for 10 years, entering the market with the first generation Q7, a car that has gone on to achieve sales of 500,000 worldwide and broken new ground for the SUV market.

It’s clear that Audi is aiming for even greater success with this, the second generation Q7, and with a lighter and stiffer platform, impressive interior and a mighty 3.0 litre V6 engine, the German manufacturer is set to extend its fan base even further.

The Q7’s new design is certainly a head turner, with a slightly reduced outer shell

88

doing little to lessen its impact on the road.

Extra lines and an enlarged chrome grille also add an extra bit of class to proceedings and should help the Q7 gain greater traction among executives keen to make a memorable first impression.

As will its seven seats, which are just at home ferrying your colleagues around as they are taking a large family out for the day or, with the rear seats folded and adjusted, giving way to a jaw dropping 1,955 litres of load space.

However, the real magic lies in the Q7’s kerb weight, which is a startling 325kg lighter than its predecessor. This is made possible by the sheer amount of lightweight materials Audi has used, with 40% of the car’s bodywork made from aluminium.

I certainly felt the difference, with the lightweight feel of the drive creating the illusion that I was in control of a much smaller car. And I’m not talking the Q5 here.

Given how smooth the Q7’s handling was around the winding roads of the Northumberland countryside, you could be

mistaken for thinking you were in the company of one of Audi’s compact models.

This illusion is maintained by the Q7’s frankly superb 3.0 litre diesel V6 TDI engine, which produces 268bhp and powered me from 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds, with a punch to the acceleration that left any preconceived ideas of what an SUV is capable of in the dust. Not that such heavy acceleration would be noticeable to your rear passengers, with Audi’s typical zero tolerance for cabin noise in full force as I zipped through the Q7’s 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The interior is also typical of Audi in that it is comfortably one of the best in its class.

Audi’s intelligent ‘Virtual Cockpit’, which works so well in the TT, is here, as is a larger touch pad that allows you to easily

handwrite instructions to your sat-nav.

However, the Q7 shies away from taking too many stylistic cues from the TT, swapping its elaborate aviation-inspired air vents for a more streamlined dashboard, while adding extra touches such as a larger palm-filling gear stick, an adjustable dual arm rest and suede side panels.

It’s clear that Audi have designed the new Q7 with love in their hearts and a spring in their step. This is a considered, wellthought-out SUV, with its pitch perfect design matched by performance that packs a real punch. The Q7 fan club definitely won’t be left disappointed.

Visit www.drivebenfield.com/audi, book a test drive by calling 0843 2188148 or visit your nearest North East Audi dealership.

It’s clear that Audi have designed the new Q7 with love in their hearts and a spring in their step. This is a considered, well-thought-out SUV SEP/OCT15

INFINITI CENTRE NEWCASTLE The distance between your dreams and reality is called action... take a test drive today!

Brand New Infiniti Q50 2.2 CDi SE Exec

£329

• Satellite Navigation • Rear View Camera • Alloy Wheels • Bluetooth© Audio Streaming • USB / iPod Connectivity • Dual Touch Screen (LCD VGA 8” and LCD VGA 7”) • Voice Recognition System • Start Stop System • Twin Exhaust Chrome Tailpipes • Push Button Ignition • Infinity InTouch • Scratch Shield Paint • Cruise Control Ultrasonic Alarm System • Half Leather Seats • Air Conditioning

Per month

Representative Example: Infiniti Q50 2.2 CDi SE Exec 48 x Monthly Payments £329

Cash Price £31,230

Manufacturer Contribution £6,295

Customer deposit £2,999

Balance to Finance £21,936

GMFV / Optional Final Payment^ £9,600

Total Amount Payable £28,689

Rate of Interest (Fixed) 5.43%

APR Representative 5.91%

Mileage per annum 10,000 ***

Brand New Infiniti Q70 2.2 D Sport Tidi

• Heated Front Seats • Rear View Camera • 20” Alloy • Bose® Premium Sound System with 11 Speakers • USB / iPod Connectivity • Heated, Electrically Adjustable and Folding Exteriors Mirrors • Bluetooth© Technology for Mobile Connectivity and Voice Activation • Twin Exhaust Chrome Tailpipes • High Resolution Touch Screen Central Display with Infiniti Controller • Scratch Shield Paint • Analogue Infiniti Clock • RearView Camera with Parking Sensors • Cruise Control • i-Key with Smart Access and Enhanced Memory

Low Finance Available

Infiniti Q70 2.2 D Sport Tidi 48 x Monthly Payments £499

Cash Price £39,630

Customer Deposit £2,999

Manufacturer Contribution £7,035

Balance to Finance £29,596

GMFV / Optional Final Payment^ £10,762

Total Amount Payable £38,011

Rate of Interest (Fixed) 6.28%

APR 6.65%

Mileage per annum 10,000 ***

Brand New Infiniti QX70 3.0 D S Premium 5dr The premium is in the car, not the pocket!

Infiniti QX70 3.0 D S Premium 5dr

• 20” Alloy Wheels • Full Screen HD Satellite Navigation • Electric Memory Leather • BOSE Hi Fi with HD & USB • Voice Activation • 7spd Paddleshift Switchable Auto • Privacy Glass • Bluetooth Streaming & Telephone • Electric Tailgate • Reverse Camera • Intelligent AWD • Rain & light Sensors • USB connection & auxiliary input socket • Electric glass sunroof • Dual zone electronic climate control • Sequential interior light system • Multimedia pack • Tyre pressure monitoring system • Heated & ventilated front seats

48 x Monthly Payments £599

Cash price £50,410

Manufacturer Contribution £10,583*

Customer deposit £4,999

Balance to Finance £34,828

GMFV / Optional Final Payment^ £12,016

Total amount payable £46,065

Rate of Interest (Fixed) 6.28%

APR 6.6%

Mileage per annum 10,000†

Infiniti Centre Newcastle Middle Engine Lane, Silverlink Business Park, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear NE28 9NZ Phone: 0191 295 8686 www.infinitinewcastle.com

INSPIRED PERFORMANCE

Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti range in mpg (l/100 km): urban 25.2 to 15.0 (11.2 to 18.9), extra urban 36.2 to 28.8 (7.8 to 9.8), combined 31.4 to 21.6 (9.0 to 13.1). CO2 emission: 307 to 238 g/km.

Visit your local dealer for full details. Infiniti Centre Newcastle is a subsidiary of Bristol Street Fourth Investments who is a credit broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Finance subject to status. Models shown for illustration purposes only. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s in the UK only. Terms and conditions apply. Retail sales only. Subject to availability. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Certain vehicles excluded. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them. *Manufacturer deposit contribution paid for by Infiniti. ^Fees include £149 payable with the first monthly instalment & £149 option to purchase fee including with the final instalment. **Excess mileage charged at 0.08p per mile. †Excess mileage charged at 0.12p per mile.

GRAND DAY OUT

Stuck in a traffic glam

90

SEP/OCT15

GRAND DAY OUT

The sight of so many gleaming Porsches was quite something – and believe me, there wasn’t a speck of dirt in sight

Around 120 beautifully-maintained cars thrilled onlookers as enthusiasts gathered for the third Porsche Whitby Rally

As convoys go, a line a gleaming Porsches sweeping majestically across the beautiful but desolate North Yorkshire Moors takes some beating.

A head-turning sight for passing motorists, without doubt, but this was only a taster of what awaited anyone fortunate enough to find themselves at Whitby’s luxurious Raithwaite Estate Hotel and Spa recently.

Clients of Porsche Centre Newcastle made their way from the company’s Silverlink Park dealership to the country retreat to rendezvous with other devotees of the luxury car from dealerships in Leeds and Sheffield.

In all, some 120 vehicles converged at Raithwaite, causing quite a stir amongst hotel guests and those living nearby.

Scott Stevenson, Centre Principal at Porsche Centre Newcastle, said: “It was a fantastic day out for Porsche enthusiasts and their families.

“Our group drove in convoy from the dealership across the North Yorkshire Moors to Whitby, stopping off at the Cross Butts Hotel en route before arriving at Raithwaite to link up with Porsche drivers and their families from Leeds and Sheffield.

“The sight of so many gleaming Porsches was quite something – and believe me, there wasn’t a speck of dirt in sight.”

Owners of classic vehicles from the 1960s mingled and exchanged stories with those driving newer models.

However, the real star of the show was the vehicle that greeted enthusiasts on their arrival, a rare 918 Spyder – so named because there were only 918 ever made – worth a cool £1.1 million.

Scott said: “Not surprisingly, the 918 got a lot of attention. It’s not a car you see every day as there have only been around 35 sold in the entire UK.” The event, known as the Porsche Whitby Rally, is now in its third year. It began to mark the 50th anniversary of the 911, the car manufacturer’s flagship model.

Scott added: “The event is now firmly established on our calendar – I’m already looking forward to the next one!”

SEP/OCT15

91

In association with:

luxe:looks

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

Spa Garden Opening, Rockliffe Hall, Hurworth Teesside Philanthropic Foundation Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Lunch, Rudby Hall Below > Angela Torrance, Helen Brown, Joanne Regan

Above > Lauren Hill, Wendy Edwards, Vicky Browning

Above > Jenene Greaves, Julie Bradley, Louise Hall, Jayne Stephenson, Wendy Moreland, Karen Arena, Kerry Coupland

Above > Laura Love, Linda Love, Katie Lunn, Karen Lunn

Above> Gail Coll, Victoria Lees, Juliette Tallentire

Below > Ali Bramwell, Eamonn Elliott, Grant Leadbitter

Above > Pamela Read, Caroline Reed, Debbie Mair, Paul Szomoru

Above > Diane Williamson, Emma Simkins, Chey Garland, Liza Pontone

Below > Maria Harrop, Maureen Brindle

Below > Claire Preston, Andrea Outon, Michelle Hicks, Katy Parkinson

Above > Sally Hare, Jo Anderson, Claire Hewitt

Above > Warwick Brindle, George Friend

Sarah Bowen Lighting, 10th Birthday Celebration, Gosforth Below > Verona Jewitt, Denise Hall

Below > Alison Charlton, Meg Craggs, Sarah Bowen

Above > Lucy Averley, Helle Drager-Sandall Above > John Moore, Amanda Vickers

inspired by arctic beauty

ARCTIC SYMPHONY COLLECTION

92

Above > Ella Bowen, Aimee Bowen

Above > Richard Johnston, Alison Charlton

Upper Level, Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne richardsintonjewellers.com Tel: 0191 232 0788

SEP/OCT15

Hungarian Grand Prix Day, Infiniti Dealership, Newcastle Below > Kerry Henderson, Mark Henderson

Hope4Kidz Handbags & High Tea, Linden Hall

SOCIAL LIFE

Below > Rachel Harvey, Rachel Bath

Above > Malaine Potts, Julie Matherson Above > Ian Dobson, Andy Anderson

Above > Dennis Clark, Mark Hughes, Chris Clark

Below > Jackie Marston, Ayesha Marston

Below > Mick Lowes, Jeff Aynsley

Above > Silvia Dobbs, Joan Glendinning

Above > Jeff Aynsley, Mark Hawkridge, Anthony Wills, Russell Hilderbrand, Stefan Pfister Above > Jen Aynsley, Dawn Aynsley Below > James Andrews, Mark Ashcroft

Above > Viv Wats, Maria Brettell, Denise Spoors, Aimee Bryns Above > Grant Hall, David Wills, Steve Tansey

Above > Suzanne Davey, Brenda Day, Nicola Wilks

Below > Sarah Reed, Mandy Wilson, Liz Turnbull

Zoe’s Place VIP Dinner with F1’s Rob Smedley, Wynyard Hall Below > Rob Smedley, Lucy Smedley

Above > Christian Wain, Mandy Marriner, Gary Mullen

Above > Debbie Wild, Amy Wells, Katie Birkin Above > Amber Mackay, Chris Madden

Above > Pauline Palmer, Vicky Jackson

Above > David Birkin, Guy Wells, Ben Wild

inspired by arctic beauty

CERAMIC LINK COLLECTION

SEP/OCT15

Upper Level, Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne richardsintonjewellers.com Tel: 0191 232 0788

93

SOCIAL LIFE

Rose Garden Launch, Wynyard Hall Hadrian School Ball, Hilton Newcastle-Gateshead

Above > Marie Williams, Michael Tulip

Above > Brian Hicks, Anne Hicks, Mark Stockard, Christine Stockard, Julie Dixon, Stephen Dixon

Above > Tracey Gallagher, Martin Robinson, Claire Robinson

Above> Victoria Robinson, Pippa Robinson

Above > Bethany Stephenson, Vanessa Krikorian, Sam Dobby

Above > Carol Horsley, Dorothy Woldridge, Sharon Beha, Julie Hall

Above > Linda Peverell, Ann Pearson

Above > Helen Goodhart, Sue Morrison, Ann Chisholm

Above > Shelley Henderson, Bryan Dickinson, Ann Dickinson

Above > Gavin Loy, Kelly Loy

Above > Shelley Watson, Lisa Grimmes

Above > Gary Davidson, Michael Brown, Debra Davidson, Claire Murphy, Tony Murphy, Andrew Hibbert, Victoria Ellis, Lynne Waterman

Above > Sue McTague, Toni McTague Above > Helen Fairhurst, Laura Winn, Sarah Brown

Above > Joanne Reay, Paul Reay

Yuvraaj Restaurant VIP Launch, Sunderland

Above > Karen Curran, Barry Curran, Monwar Hussain and Rt Hon Sharon Hodgson Above > Richard Ayre, Melanie Ayre

Above > Stacey Nicholson, Claire Maguire

inspired by arctic beauty

CERAMIC COLLECTION

94

Above > Anne Swainston, Steve Swainston

Above > Lynn Walton, Eric Walton

Above > Stephen Bannister, Jessica Bannister

Upper Level, Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne richardsintonjewellers.com Tel: 0191 232 0788

SEP/OCT15

Northern Goldsmiths Re-launch, Newcastle

inspired by arctic beauty Above > Robson Green

Above > The Vieux Carré Jazzmen

Above > Steven Bamford, Vicky Turner

Above > Lee Clark, Lorraine Clark, Craig Bolton Above > Michael Smith, Faye Tozer

Above > Lauren Hedley, Craig Bolton

Above > Carly Briston, Camilla Priest

Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition Launch, Bowes Museum

Above > Jane Tennant

Above > Laetitia Roux

Above > Alison Davy

Above > M Pierre Bergé

Above > Joanna Hashagen, Peter Mothersill

Above > Bernard Robinson

Above> Jenna Rossi-Camus

CERAMIC COLLECTION

Lloyd BMW Golf Day, Close House

Hig h-te ch cer amic, stainless steel, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal

Above > Mark Douglas, Paul Wears, Bev Wears, Brian Aisbitt

Above > Alan Graham, Gary Bingley, Paul Reed, Graham Dalgleish

Above > Carole Wilson, Lynn Butler, Yvonne Salmon, June Plan

Above > Peter Scholes, Nik Jones, Graham Anderson, John Bewick

Above > Richard Skinner, Mick O’Hara, Conner McKernan

Above > Tony Sagar, Paul Lawrence

Upper Level, Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne richardsintonjewellers.com Tel: 0191 232 0788

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

SEP/OCT15

95

MAKE PLANS, DO GOOD

Sweet charity Tuck in to some fine fund-raising fun STARRY NIGHT >>

IN A FL AP >> If you love a touch of the roaring twenties, time to get in a flap about the Roaring Twenties Ball at Wynyard Hall on October 2nd.

It’s a fund-raiser for women’s aid charity My Sister’s Place in Middlesbrough, a charity which has just won the support of Middlesbrough Football club in its campaign against domestic violence. Tables of ten are £650, to book call 01642 241864 – see more on facebook.com/MSPBALL.

Be part of a major fundraising concert supporting the work of Maggie’s and Sage Gateshead on October 8. From The Lion King, Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita to James Bond and many more, the songs of multiple-Oscar award-winning Sir Tim Rice will light up the stage at Sage Gateshead.

Performed by some of the most successful artists straight from the West End and accompanied by Royal Northern Sinfonia. Sir Tim Rice himself will narrate stories from his personal life and career and will talk about how different songs came to life. This is a unique opportunity to step into the life and mind of one of the world’s most respected songwriters as well as enjoying and listening to his renowned music live on stage. www.sagegateshead.com

ON THE WEB >> Tables are selling fast for the Spiderman Ball at Gateshead Hilton in November. Great entertainment, plenty of glitz, glamour and soccer celebs are lined up for the dazzling red-carpet event.

The ball is a tribute night for the former Newcastle footballer Jonas Guttierez who made a friend of fans region-wide during his courageous battle with testicular cancer whilst a player at Newcastle.

The fund-raising event has been organised by NUFC’s Steve Taylor and the Ballboys charity which campaigns for support and research into testicular cancer.

Latest supporters to sign up include Bentley.

Donate at the Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/luxeballboys

LADIES LUNCHING >> Lunch and networking were the magic ingredients at a ladies’ lunch which raised cash for Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation.

Rudby Hall near Stokesley hosted 70 female business leaders in what Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation aims to make an annual summer event.

Andy Preston, the charity’s founder and chairman told the guests that the Foundation had now raised more than £900,000 in four years, thanks to the support of local businesses and individuals.

Foundation trustee, Emma Simkins, of charity patrons Henderson Insurance Broking Company, said the inaugural event was a great success.

“The ladies loved getting together for a fun and informative event, dressing up for a drinks reception, networking and lunch. Best of all, we raised £2,700 for the Philanthropic Foundation, money that will go towards helping some of the most needy within Teesside’s community.

The Foundation’s next Ladies’ Lunch at The Thistle Hotel, Middlesbrough is on Thursday, December 3. Tickets including a two-course lunch are £30 each. To reserve your seats, call Mandy on 07948 191046 or email mandy.s@teessidecharity.org.uk

96

EAT CAKE, DO GOOD >> September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and CLIC Sargent is asking you to do your very own ‘bake-off’ for a £170 challenge.

The sum is a grant that CLIC Sargent gives to families after a child is diagnosed with cancer, to stop unexpected costs like parking and petrol becoming a problem. Money may seem unimportant when a child is diagnosed with cancer, but families caring for a child with cancer often find that their costs go up and their income goes down. So every £170 raised this September could help. In the North East almost £48,000 was given out in CLIC Sargent Grants to families from across the area last year.

If you’re a fan of flapjack or a cupcake queen, show off your baking skills and whip up some tasty treats to sell to friends, family or workmates as part of The Power Of Cake.

CLIC Sargent provides practical, emotional and financial support for children with a cancer diagnosis and Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness of the impact of childhood cancer, and of CLIC Sargent’s work supporting young cancer patients and their families.

If you’d like to take on the £170 challenge in September visit www.clicsargent.org.uk/ccam or call 0845 1212 492.

SEP/OCT15

NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD

PARTING SHOT

Late blooms>> Our favourite bloom without a doubt, the luscious and lovely hydrangea offers up a gentle farewell to summer.

By Kevin Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk

98

SEP/OCT15