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From the

Editor

EDITOR’S PICKs

#1 Alice in Wonderland from Charbonnel et Walker (charbonnel.com)

#2 Alessi Trinity steel fruit holder (alessi.com) #3 Orphaned Cheetah Cubs, Peter Beard, 1968 (bonhams.com)

“After a good dinner one can forgive anybody, even one’s own relations” – Oscar Wilde, A Woman of No Importance For the foodies among us this will resonate; nothing better than a good meal with friends, whether at the fabulous restaurants we have on our doorstep, or the perfect Sunday roast. So, as autumn brings with it some delicious new produce, we celebrate! Local chefs share with us their favourite dishes and recipes for us to recreate at home (page 33), we travel to the world’s most expensive restaurant in Ibiza (page 106) and discover some great new products for your kitchen (page 18). Clearly, good food deserves not just good company but also something good to drink. Gemma Knight looks into the latest cocktail trends (page 44) and our wine stories take us from the resurrection of old-world classics and investing in them (page 38) to the new world, as the country of Georgia welcomes Joey Leskin to sample the ‘next big thing’ (page 102). The current big thing on our screens is the final instalment of Downton Abbey, so we speak exclusively to Sue Johnston (page 46), while Lady Ashbrook lets us into some secrets from Our Zoo (page 28). We’re bursting with more famous faces too as Bruce Oldfield chats about his new collaboration with John Lewis (page 69), plus Rosita Missoni gives us some style tips for the season (page 136). I guess all that remains is to wish you happy reading and with the question: who would you invite to your ultimate dinner party?

Louisa Louisa Castle Editor Follow us on Twitter @TheCheshireMag

Proud to support: Variety – The Children’s Charity The Pink Ribbon Ball, Manchester & Breast Cancer now the babygrow appeal, countess of chester hospital

THE VIVIANNA DEW DROP COLLECTION

14 R A I LW AY S T R E E T, A LT R I N C H A M , W A 14 2 R E W W W. D A V I D M R O B I N S O N .C O.U K 01 61 9 2874 87

Investment PLANNING

Retirement Planning

Tax & Estate Planning

“It’s more about you than your money” Phil Illingworth

Jonathan Seddon

THE OLD SCHOOL, HIGH STREET, TATTENHALL, CHESHIRE. CH3 9PX TEL: 01829 771707 FAX: 01829 771195 EMAIL: illingworthseddon@sjpp.co.uk Illingworth Seddon Chartered Financial Planners represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

106

028

048

Contents

094

November 2015

040

Features

collection

travel

028 | Lady of the house Guardian of Arley Hall, Lady Ashbrook, explains why charity should begin at home 033 | The season’s best Local head chefs share their autumn/winter dishes and a few of their favourite things 040 | A very good year The promising new vintages reigniting interest in the Bordeaux region’s wine 044 | Mixing it up All the latest cocktail trends and secrets of the mixologists 048 | Homemaid Downton Abbey’s Sue Johnston (AKA Lady’s Maid Denker) talks family and football

058 | Watch news Stunning state-of-the-art timepieces for him and her 062 | Jewellery news A full round-up of all the latest in style and sparkle

100 | Travel news 102 | The world of Georgian wine Discover the blossoming wine culture in far-flung Georgia 106 | Inside the world’s most expensive restaurant Ibiza’s latest luxury arrivals 112 | Weekend away Manchester’s Midland Hotel just got a little bit more luxe

regulars

062 136

art 052 | Art & culture news 054 | Style is eternal Celebrating lauded, visionary couturier Yves Saint Laurent 056 | Prize lots

fashion & beauty 066 | Fashion news From essential accessories to new trends, it’s all here 069 | The little Bruce dress Couturier Bruce Oldfield OBE talks about his exciting new collaboration 072 | Smoke and mirrors It’s all about shimmering gowns, jacquard prints and metallic embellishments 082 | Beauty news New treatments, products and all the latest news 086 | The Countess and the Lady Lady Tamara van Cutsem on the Babygrow Appeal

motoring 090 | Motoring news The latest developments from the automotive world 092 | Top of the range Get up close and personal with the most powerful Range Rover ever built 094 | Dream machines The very best of the luxury SUVs from the likes of Rolls-Royce and Bentley 098 | Technology central What’s hot in the world of gadgets, games and geekery

FAMILY 114 | The classroom 120 | Kids’ news The very latest for little ones 118 | A French connection Two of our favourite French brands’ ultimate wet-wear

homes & interiors 124 | Interiors news 136 | Dream weaver Rosita Missoni talks style tips and the vital importance of a close-knit family 147 | Recreate the look Emerging trends and innovative new ideas to liven up your dining room 154 | Red and yellow and pink and... Why now is the time to plant a rainbow for an explosion of colour in springtime 163 | Hot properties The best of Cheshire’s homes 168 | Plain sailing Discover the seas with this custom-built motor yacht 179 | Overseas property These stunning properties will have you yearning to emigrate

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

NOVEMBER 2015 s issue 023 s

Editor Louisa Castle

The

contributors

Deputy Editor Gemma Knight Editorial Director Kate Harrison Theatre Editor Natalie Anglesey Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Tim bradley Tim is an award-winning photographer based in the North West. Discovering a passion for photography from his grandfather, he is a regular on the media scene and often works with TV chef Andrew Nutter.

RICHARD BROWN Richard is deputy editor of Collection, our dedicated watch and fine jewellery section. He specialises in menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style, culture and finance. Each month he brings us all the latest developments from the world of timepieces.

RICHARD YARROW Former associate editor of Auto Express, Richard is an accomplished motoring journalist. This month, he explores the luxury SUV market and offerings from such giants as Bentley, Rolls-Royce and, of course, Lamborghini.

JENNIFER MASON Jennifer started out in luxury fashion marketing and has since worked as a writer in the UK and Dubai, specialising in motoring, travel, lifestyle and local features. Her time is spent reading and obsessing over the latest Formula 1 results.

Production Hugo Wheatley, Oscar Viney Alice Ford, Jamie Steele Advertising Managers Kayleigh Penswick, Kathryn Otto Danielle Mullen Brand Ambassador Keely Barrett General Manager Fiona Fenwick Publisher Giles Ellwood Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

www.rwmg.co.uk Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. DISTRIBUTION The Cheshire Magazine is the largest circulated luxury publication in Cheshire, delivered to selected homes in over 20 postcodes, plus businesses, newsagents and retail outlets. ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Kayleigh Penswick:+44 (0) 784 1199 699 k.penswick@runwildgroup.co.uk Kathryn Otto:+ 44 (0) 797 1981 721 k.otto@runwildgroup.co.uk Danielle Mullen: +44 (0) 796 6159 812 d.mullen@runwildgroup.co.uk

Members of the Professional Publishers Association

Iain Warde Iain is a self-confessed geek, having worked in computer gaming and tech magazines since the creation of Pac-Man. He is also a huge petrolhead who spends his spare time marshalling at Oulton Park and around the UK.

cover On the

Misty Moors dining from Dunelm (dunelm-mill.com)

Also published by

phillip WATERMAN Phillip has more than ten years experience at a wide variety of publications, including the Telegraph, and has also been involved with campaigns for Specsavers. In this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion shoot, he captures autumn glamour at its best.

PRIVATE PARTIES AT ABODE MANCHESTER Exceptional food, fine wines, luxury accommodation and a city centre location make for the ideal party venue. Three course menus available from

ÂŁ35.00 per person

Room hire waived for parties of 8 or more. For more details on available menus and to help create your perfect fine dining event please call 0161 885 5075 or email events@abodemanchester.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

My life in CHESHIRE P e t e r Pat t e n d e n Golf Courses & Estates Manager at Carden Park

“We love living here and we’re happy to call Cheshire our home”

fter twelve years at Gleneagles (seven of them as head gamekeeper in charge of the PGA Centenary Course), it was in 2006 that Peter Pattenden answered an advert for a role at Carden Park, the country house hotel and golf course near Chester. Suffice to say, he’s never looked back. As well as looking after the golf courses and estate, he now also looks after Carden Hall Estate too, a large estate property adjoining the hotel and golf course, owned by the hotel and Redrow owner, Steve Morgan, overseeing the maintenance and up-keep of all of the estate, its private properties, the hotel grounds, the two golf courses and football pitch. “I really enjoy the variety in my job,” he explains. “Each new day presents a fresh challenge, all of which keeps me on my toes. Some days I could be running around the golf courses helping out the greens staff, other days I could be re-lining the football pitch or managing our annual vineyard harvest. It’s such a pleasure, because Carden Park is so unique – if you choose to stay, you don’t even need to leave the grounds once you’re here. The hotel is a beautiful setting for any occasion, with outdoor activities including golf, a driving range, crazy golf, a full-size football pitch, giant chess, aerial ropes course, laser clay shooting, archery, mountain biking, nature walking trails, children’s playground and tennis courts, and the hotel also has an indoor swimming pool, gym and spa. You can really do as much or as little as you like.” Peter is also particularly passionate about Carden Park’s vineyard, the largest in Cheshire, explaining that the 4,000 vines – which were originally planted in 1988 and brought back to their former glory in 2008 – now produce up to 6,000 bottles of Carden Old Gold sparkling wine each year from the two grape varieties grown, Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir. The grapes are harvested by the estate’s team, and the wine is sold throughout the hotel’s restaurants and bars, as well as being available to purchase and take home. Peter, his family and dog Dan live in a house on the Carden estate (“very handy for the office!”), and are constantly grateful for the welcome they’ve received since moving to Cheshire. “It’s such a beautiful county,” he says, “and there’s so much to do, especially in the area around the hotel, with family attractions like the Ice Cream Farm and Chester just 15 minutes’ drive away, plus there are plenty of stunning cycle routes and walking paths to discover nearby. We enjoy eating out and finding new places to eat, since there are so many great pubs and restaurants in and around the countryside, and I enjoy taking my son, Peter, to the football and watching live games. We love living here and we’re happy to call Cheshire our home.” (cardenpark.co.uk) 15

HOME FIRES The second series of ITV’s prime-time drama is back filming on our doorstep in Bunbury and Tarporley and we captured some behind-the-scenes moments as the cast and crew filmed at The Swan. Welcoming acclaimed actresses Samantha Bond and Francesca Annis the pub’s historic rooms provided the perfect backdrop to the series, which follows the lives of a group of inspirational Women’s Institute members in rural Cheshire during the Second World War. Broadcast of the second series is expected in 2016. (theswantarporley.co.uk; itv.com)

NOTEBOOK

50,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year (breastcancernow.org)

336 the average number of dimples in a golf ball

alexander mcqueen by tim walker for ‘vogue’

The British luxury industry is worth roksanda illic spring resort 2015 collection

£32million

to the UK economy (thewalpole.co.uk)

Every day

of the US eats at McDonalds

BEST OF BRITISH LUXURY The shortlist for Walpole’s 2015 British Luxury Awards has just been announced and features some of our favourites. Created in 2001 to honour those who demonstrate brilliance in the luxury sector both within Britain and beyond, the nine categories feature nominees who have demonstrated brilliance in the luxury sector. The British Luxury Brand of the Year shortlist reads as follows: Alexander McQueen, Bentley, Burberry, Roksanda and Victoria Beckham. We don’t envy the judging panel... The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony at The Dorchester on 2 November. All shortlisted nominees (thewalpole.co.uk) 16

@Martinkeown5

ham romeo beck ry for burber

I’d have loved to have played against Diego Costa!

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

5 top picks

to brighten up your kitchen #1 Eames bar stool, £79 (danetti.com)

RAISE SOME DOUGH

allace & Gromit’s Big Bake is back. Sponsored by Homepride, the event aims to raise money for sick children in hospitals and hospices across the UK. So take inspiration from the Great British Bake Off and everyone’s favourite cheese-loving duo and whip out your whisks for charity. Wallace & Gromit’s Big Bake, 7-13 December (bigbake.org)

PURCHASE OF THE MONTH

#2 Handmade glass decanter, £65 (jasmineway.co.uk)

#3 Vintage Chinese kitchen cabinet, £1,050 (rouge-shop.co.uk)

Enjoy a piece of the outside in your home #4 Insinkerator hot and cold water tap, £628 (diy.com)

Inky tea towels, £14.95 (katemoby.com)

#5 Alessi Mediterraneo fruit bowl, £36.50 (design55online.co.uk) 17

BREAKING FREE Yumsh Snacks Limited is the Manchester brainchild behind an award-winning range of Ten Acre crisps and popcorn we’ve been featuring. Made in the UK to the highest standards, all ingredients and packaging are specially selected to comply with Free From principles. As well as making nibbles that everyone can enjoy the company is the preferred supplier of Condé Nast Johansens and proud sponsors of the Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year. They’re also available at Innside Melia and Gastronomy, Hale. All crisps and popcorn are gluten, dairy and MSG free, as well as being vegan, vegetarian, Halal and Kosher certified and hand cooked in small batches. There’s a few fabulous flavours to try too and their website is a whole new world... (tenacrecrisps.co.uk)

PAUL HOLLYWOOD, BAKER AND PRESENTER

What is your favourite food and why? Definitely my Sachertorte with a large dollop of crème frâiche on the side. It’s gooey and indulgent! What is your favourite piece of kitchen equipment? I love my KitchenAid and all the accessories, especially the dough hook. It’s very similar to the big industrial mixer I have in the bakery and I use it whenever I bake at home.

NOTEBOOK

Food & Drink PURCHASE OF THE MONTH BELLE EPOQUE 2007 Champagne House Perrier-Jouet has collaborated with Viennese-based design duo Mischer Traxler to create this limited-edition collection called Small Discoveries, inspired by Perrier-Jouet’s Art Nouveau heritage. These small discoveries appear in the form of fluttering butterflies on a specially designed re-usable Grand Brut tin gift box which is isothermal, ensuring the Champagne stays cool as well, as a special-edition bottle of Belle Epoque 2007, with deluxe case and sleeve. Grand Brut gift box, £40 and Belle Epoque, £130 (perrier-jouet.com) 18

Q&A...

If you were marooned on a desert island, what would be the one thing you would take with you and why? It’s got to be my pork pie recipe, made with pork loin, back bacon and lots of fresh parsley. Real pork pies are meaty and filling and should always be homemade.

The Great British Bake Off, BBC One, Wednesdays, 8 pm (thegreatbritishbakeoff.co.uk)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

SPOTLIGHT ON... ABODE CHESTER Words: LOUISA CASTLE

ocated on the fifth floor, Michael Caines’ restaurant at Abode Chester offers an impressive spectacular as the sun sets over the Cheshire plains. But what about the food? As we caught up over our perfect G&Ts from the Gin Menu, we both commented on the romance of the setting (I was with a girlfriend) and how it was probably wasted on us, but we’d make the most of it nevertheless. Once seated by the floor-to-ceiling windows, our fellow dining companions ran the full gamut of friends, couples, families and lone diners, and the restaurant was reasonably busy for a Thursday. We had decided on the tasting menu (£50 each, £80 with wine), which was about as far as our decision-making could go as we got distracted chatting about life and travel. Served by a team of ever-smiling waiters and waitresses, soon we were presented with our starter – pan-fried scallop with pea pureé, smoked pancetta and mint oil. Delicate but cooked to perfection, the flavours definitely had us hooked from the very start. Next was pan fried duck liver with orange braised chicory, walnuts and jerez sauce. At this

“The aromas were truly astounding, tempting our tastebuds before we’d even picked up our knives and forks”

point it’s worth mentioning the aromas were truly astounding, tempting our tastebuds before we’d even picked up our knives and forks. The liver sliced effortlessly with flavour, yet not overpowering. Our favourite dish was the stone bass with pancetta, apple and ginger pureé and bok choi. A meaty, melt-in-the-mouth piece of fish with the smokey pancetta and light fruit, this dish comes as a main course on the à la carte menu and I can tell you now, this is what I will be having next time (and what our neighbouring diner had and loved). The lamb rump-pressed belly, broad beans and asparagus roast garlic pureé came with lamb jus as a supporting act and was very pleasant, cooked pink with fresh-tasting vegetables – though for us, the stone bass stole the show. To cleanse our palates, a refreshing dish of marinated raspberries, raspberry sorbet and popping candy followed. I had forgotten about the popping candy at this stage so a pleasant surprise awaited my first mouthful. The finale was a banana and dark chocolate parfait, with caramelised banana and salted caramel ice-cream. A classic combination of flavours, it was a light but still indulgent way to finish our dinner. By the time our coffee arrived we were entirely satisfied, having toyed with adding a cheese course but grateful now that we hadn’t. Our verdict was simple; a great dining experience, with friendly and efficient service from Martina and her team. Michael Caines Restaurant, ABode Chester, Grosvenor Road, Chester CH1 2DU (abodechester.co.uk) 19

Spoil someone special with experience vouchers from £30.00

Escape to Cheshireʼs Country Estate and let us take care of all you need over the festive season... Two night New Yearʼs Eve Gala Dinner Break from £299.00 per adult

Two night Christmas breaks from £335.00 per adult from £79.00 per child

Say farewell to 2015 in style.

Relax, sit back and enjoy your Christmas.

¥ Gala dinner in Carden Suite ¥ Band, disco and entertainment ¥ Three course dinner on 30th December or buffet dinner on 1st January ¥ Breakfast each morning

¥ Three course dinner ¥ Breakfast each morning ¥ Christmas lunch and evening buffet ¥ Use of leisure facilities throughout stay

Three night option also available T&Cs apply

Christmas party nights from £30.00 per person Celebrate with friends, family or colleagues. ¥ Three course dinner ¥ Disco throughout the evening ¥ Photobooth for a souvenir ¥ Fun novelty props

Carden Park Hotel, Chester, Cheshire, CH3 9DQ Call 01829 731000 cardenpark.co.uk hotel golf spa

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Local scene Everyone is back from their summer holidays and enjoying what Cheshire society has to offer

Champagne & Chukkas Colshaw Hall The inaugural Irlam Family Polo Event attracted the finest of Cheshire society to Colshaw Hall. Entertainment was not contained just to the field but the afternoon included exclusive shopping and delicious afternoon tea. (colshawhall.com)

Photographs by Andrew Collier Photography Entertainment from Gravity Live with CAFT Patron Noddy Holder

Catherine Tomlinson and CAFT Patron Jennifer James

All aboard Northern Belle Rock legend Noddy Holder hosted a fine-dining fundraiser on the Northern Belle for The Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, adding £16,500 to the pot. Alongside the Champagne and five-course meal there were illusionists, vocalists and event a contortionist. (caft.co.uk)

CAFT Patrons Noddy & Suzan Holder

CAFT’s Helen Crowther with Lido van der Laan

(L to R) Allen Reid, Lynne Reid, Paula McGuire and Michael James Stan and Janice Edwards

(L to R) Elizabeth Crowther, Helen Crowther and Julie Moseley

John and Cathy Farrar

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Cheers! Christleton Road, Chester Wine expert Susy Atkins joined local wine lovers to open Tanners newest branch in the stunning Art Deco cinema building, now complete with bespoke tasting room. With the 2015 Large Merchant of the Year accolade, Cheshire was Shropshire-based Tannersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; next logical step in bringing all things wine to the public. (tanners-wines.co.uk)

MARILENA ANTONIADOU (LEFT) WITH lIZ TAYLOR AT mmu

TAY L O R TA L K

Modern superwoman Liz Taylor speaks with Dr Marilena Antoniadou about education, desert islands and sunnier climes

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

couple of years ago, I was invited to give a lecture at Manchester Metropolitan University’s (MMU) Business School. I jumped at the chance, enjoying the irony that I had once preferred high heels to high school. There I met an amazing lecturer, Dr Marilena Antoniadou, and we hit it off instantly. Insightful, funny, intelligent and passionate about helping the next generation of business students start successful careers.

How did you come to be at MMU Business School? MMU was my choice for my postgraduate studies – a master degree in public relations, in 2005. After my graduation, I realised that academia was an inspiring field for me, hence three years later I started my doctoral studies. The MMU Business School has been my academic ‘home’ ever since.

If you weren’t working in education, what would you be? Honest answer? A proper Greek-Cypriot housewife, a modern superhero who cooks, bakes and looks after the house all day! Serious answer, though, it would be painful for me to be away from university life. Nevertheless, if I had a second career, it would need to be relevant to communications.

Is university getting easier or harder since more people than ever seem to have a degree under their belts? It is true that in order for people to obtain the jobs they want, they need to be able to verify that they have the basic skills to succeed in a particular subject, and a university degree usually certifies this. But whether university is getting easier or harder, I would probably answer that it is getting more challenging, for both the students and for the academics. Admittedly, knowledge does not measure intelligence nor guarantees career success, but university is also about building young business people and helping to develop social skills.

Do you think an events management degree will make a great events manager? This is an interesting question. I am often intrigued

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

why some people may think that a degree is not necessary for career success. Assuming that you want to be a doctor or a rocket scientist, wouldn’t you need a degree? Why isn’t it the same for one of the most expanding sectors in the UK? The service industry and hospitality is contributing to the UK’s GDP by billions each year. The major UK cities have been at the epicentre of events hosting for the past few decades and figures show that it is not declining. A good events manager would require a combination of management, financial, marketing and PR skills, together with knowledge on logistics and legal aspects. Experience, a positive attitude, creativity and excellent communication are important traits. And let’s not underestimate the ability to cope well under pressure.

I’m a Cheshire girl and love the northwest. How long have you lived in the region?

I am delighted to be part of the advisory board for management courses at MMU Business School. Tell me about the group, its goals and purpose.

Since you’re from sunnier climes, I wanted to ask: if you were stranded on a desert island, which six people would you want to be marooned with and why?

We are delighted to have you too! The role of the advisory board is to act as an advocate for the programmes and to help to review, refine and develop the Business School’s programmes by highlighting key insights, new knowledge and future trends in the industry. Membership is by invitation only and the board tends to remain small and focused, with a maximum of 15 members. We have representatives from across many industries, with a wonderful range of experience, who can help inform the development of our programmes.

I know my family would be there, so that’s four. My best friend, who also happens to be my partner, and Stephen Hawking, for endless, mentally stimulating discussions about the universe and his remarkable life. Plus his wonderful sense of humour!

I’m originally from sunny Cyprus. But I have lived in Manchester since 2005 and I still remember the first day I moved here. I woke up in a rainy, cloudy city, but strangely, I soon realised that it was surrounded by the loveliest, warmest, friendliest locals I’ve ever met. Without a doubt, this is what has kept me in the region for so long. It now feels like home. I always joke about it and say to my students that I live in the Business School’s fifth floor and my colleagues are my roommates. I love it. Everything, from its music, its history, to Canal Street and the Curry mile. The city is full of friendly vibes and yet a stone’s throw from the Cheshire countryside. Ideal.

Do you have a bucket list of places in the world you would like to go? My whole life’s been geared towards travel as I have been living away from home since I was 18. My dream destination package would include South America, Brazil, Cuba and Argentina. I love the idea of visiting exotic locations like Laos or Hawaii and the Caribbean Sea. As a Mediterranean girl I long for sunny destinations. And I cannot think of a better place to finish my travelling (and probably live and retire to) than Greece. It is one of the most wonderful, breathtaking countries that exist in the world and I would like to explore every single corner of it.

What item would you never travel without? I could travel without items, but I wouldn’t like to travel without certain people. (tlc-ltd.co.uk; business.mmu.ac.uk)

s Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Lady of the house

Guardian of Arley Hall, avid gardener and Shopping Spectacular pioneer, Lady Ashbrook speaks with Louisa Castle about the importance of charity beginning at home

ABOVE: ARLEY HALL and ENTRANCE HALLWAY RIGHT: LADY ASHBROOK AT HER SON ROWLAND’S WEDDING

nd what a home it is. Home to Lord Ashbrook’s family for more than 500 years. “It was built for filling and parties,” begins Lady Ashbrook, over freshly brewed coffee in the drawing room of her home on the estate. “It’s so lovely to see it being used for weddings and events. “We still use it too, though. Our children have all got married here and had blessings in the Chapel. We had to get permission from the Archbishop of Canterbury to do so. And we have Christmas dinner here. It’s a wonderful family house. “When we [Lord and Lady Ashbrook and their three children, Eleanor, Rowland and Harry] moved up from London, we decided not to move

into the Hall when my parents-in-law moved out as we were already settled in the Old Parsonage, a wonderful house for raising children. “Plus, we felt it was important to keep the estate going and share it as much as possible. Throughout its history Arley Hall has always been a family home, even when it was rebuilt, homed evacuees and as home to a humble market garden. “Then in the 1980s there was a bit of a movement to open the houses to the general public. I think it was Lord Montagu of Beaulieu who started the trend, closely followed by Longleat and Woburn. I remember when we opened, Mrs Hobbly wielded the tea pot twice a week for visitors.” Today Arley Hall is renowned probably more for

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

ABOVE: ARLEY HALL BELOW: LADY ASHBROOK IN HER BELOVED GARDENS; LORD & LADY ASHBROOK

its beautiful gardens but it remains a destination venue for events; food festivals, DogFest, fairy picnics and weddings, not to mention Stockley Farm. “The gardens were largely laid out by my husband’s great, great grandfather, Rowland Egerton-Warburton, and his wife, Mary, in the 1800s. And each generation has contributed to them to the present day. We have five full-time gardeners, but my husband and I are still very involved. Currently we’re trying to map the herbaceous border, which is proving a little challenging. It will be my son Rowland and his wife’s turn soon.” The Hall is also becoming a bit of a star in its own right, serving as a backdrop for The Forsyte Saga and more recently BBC’s Our Zoo, telling the tale of the struggle of Chester Zoo. “We had a camel, two lions and a giraffe on the parkland over night. It was quite a spectacle. I was very nervous about the giraffe and our curtains, not to mention the large litter tray which followed it around. But all was well in the end! We’ve also got interest from Peaky Blinders to film here. So there’s quite a lot of variety. It’s wonderful to share it with others. “I’m not sure who came up with the idea of the Shopping Spectacular for charity. But we were doing all sorts of fundraising for Elizabeth Fitzroy Homes to raise money to build their new home, Cherry Trees in Timperley. In that first year we had 25 or so stalls and raised £5,960. “There weren’t a lot of shopping fairs around then. There was one in Uttoxeter, though, and I

remember they were very cross with us for starting one in Cheshire! I also remember feverishly making egg and cress baps with my mother-in-law until the early hours of the morning for the stall holders, who we also put up. It was a lovely social occasion from the very start. “It was such a success that we continued the event and change the charity every five years. So we’ve helped Elizabeth Fitzroy Homes, Petty Pool and Boys & Girls Welfare Trust. Today the Shopping Spectacular is in aid of The Seashell Trust, but we’re in our final fifth year, so we’ll be supporting someone new next year. “I can’t believe it’s been going for 25 years. Now, we have some younger ladies running things extremely efficiently, I might add. We have around 70 stalls and one of our very early supporters, Qwerkity, is back this year with the Men’s Den in the Tudor Barn, with some interesting gifts for men. I think there are many of us who will be grateful for that. “It’s the start of Christmas for me, and it’s the perfect way to start my Christmas shopping, especially for children’s presents and stocking fillers.” Made even better as the entire cost of your ticket plus ten per cent of everything you spend goes directly to The Seashell Trust. The Arley Hall Shopping Spectacular, 9-10 November. Monday 9 November, 6pm until 9.30pm. Tickets £10 in advance/£12 on the night, which includes a glass of Champagne and canapés. Tuesday 10 November, 9.30am until 3.30pm. Tickets £7.50 on the door. (arleyhallshoppingspectacular.co.uk; 0161 610 0170 or email tickets@ arleyhallshoppingspectacular.co.uk)

“Fun,Simple,Heart Felt With A DollopOf Nostalgia”

o T w e N rley e d l A ! ! e g Ed

Burger Joint & Milk Bar Alderley Edge

Meanwhile In Tomfoolery At 34 ...

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THE SEASONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST Local head chefs share with us their autumn/winter dishes and a few of their favourite things

V e l o u t é o f C a u l i f l o wer , R o a ste d W o o d P i g e o n , B r i o che S i ppets & T r u ff l e O i l

From Mark Walker, Executive Head Chef, The Mere Resort & Spa Serves 4 Ingredients 2 cauliflowers 100g shallots 145g unsalted butter 625ml full-fat milk 375ml double cream 2g table salt 2g whole white pepper whole pigeon 1 10ml vegetable oil 1 finger brioche 2ml truffle oil 5g chives Method • Finely slice the cauliflower. • Melt 120g of the butter in a pan over heat, add the cauliflower and diced shallots, plus a pinch of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes. • Cover with the double cream and milk, and bring to the boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender. • Add to a blender (or using a hand blender), blitz until smooth. • Season to taste and set aside. • Season the pigeon breast. • In a warm pan, place the vegetable oil and 10g of the remaining butter. • Place the pigeon breast into the hot pan and fry gently for 2-3 minutes on each side. • Remove the pigeon and place onto a cloth to rest for 3 minutes. • Dice the brioche into 1cm cubes and gently fry in the remaining butter until golden. • Slice the pigeon into thin strips and place into the centre of a bowl. Pour on the hot cauliflower velouté, add the brioche sippets and drizzle with truffle oil. • Finish with freshly chopped chives.

ABOUT MARK What makes your job so special? The people I work with. Passion breeds passion, and to be surrounded by so many creative, innovative and ambitious chefs means that we’re constantly developing new ways to bring new ideas to life.

And Cheshire? Cheshire is full of artisan producers offering top-quality products. Local produce is fresh, full of flavour and carefully nurtured, so I always ensure our ingredients are sourced as locally as possible.

Which is your favourite season? Winter. I love the earthy good, game, root vegetables and warming food that’s full of flavour.

What’s your favourite food trend? Has to be alfresco dining. Whether it’s a barbecue or a light lunch outdoors, there’s no better way to enjoy beautiful food than in the fresh air. Barbecueing has become very popular, not just for social events, but for weddings and corporate functions too. Do you have any food predictions for next year? My prediction would be going back to basics, with simple food, done exceptionally well. Fresh ingredients, plenty of flavour, without the need or complicated techniques or eccentric presentation. I think growing your own will also continue to be a popular move.

And what will you be cooking this autumn? Lots of mallard duck. My five year-old son loves it! Otherwise, lots of winter stews, duck casseroles and warming (though not heavy) dishes, with plenty of winter vegetables. (themereresort.com)

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“Cheshire is full of artisan producers offering top-quality products”

“I think Cheshire is now very much a foodie hub – and growing more so by the day”

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S p i ce d r o a st leg o f w elsh l a m b w i th t z a t z i k i

From Luke Thomas, Chef Patron Luke’s Eating House & Gin Rickey’s Serves 6 Ingredients: 800g–1kg leg of Welsh lamb, boned, rolled & tied For the marinade 2 onions, peeled and roughly chopped 3 garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped 1 small bunch of fresh flat leaf parsley 1 bunch of fresh coriander leaves 1 tbsp chilli powder, 2 tbsp cumin powder 2 tbsp turmeric, 2 tbsp sweet paprika 30g sea salt, 100ml olive oil Juice and zest of 1 lemon, salt and pepper For the tzatziki 1 cucumber, peeled, halved, deseeded and diced 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed 200g thick Greek yoghurt 75ml extra virgin olive oil 20 fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped Preparation time: 10 minutes Chilling time: overnight Cooking time: 1 hour, plus 15 minutes resting time Blitz the marinade ingredients to a fine paste in a food processor. Season with salt and pepper. Rub the paste over the lamb, making sure to work it into the flesh, then place it in a roasting tray and leave to marinate in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to cook the lamb, preheat the oven to 200˚C. Season the lamb with a little more salt and pepper, then roast in the oven for 1 hour, until golden brown all over. (This will result in lamb that is a little pink in the middle; if you like it well done, then cook for a further 30 mins). To make the tzatziki, mix together all the ingredients in a small bowl and leave in the fridge until needed. When the lamb is cooked, remove it from the oven and leave it to rest, covered in foil, for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with a generous dollop of tzatziki.

ABOUT LUKE What makes your job so special? Every day is completely different – new ingredients, new people and new places. I am very lucky in the way that my job (although it doesn’t really feel like a job) has taken me all over the world. I love to travel, see and taste new things, and meet new people. And Cheshire? I think Cheshire is now very much a foodie hub – and growing more so by the day. From gastro pub, teppanyaki, fine-dining to artisan coffee – we have a great mix. I love eating out as much as possible and supporting local businesses that are doing a great job. Which is your favourite season? Autumn and winter for sure. I love proper comfort food: stews, hotpots and classic puddings (with lots of custard), the food we were all brought up on and love every time we get the opportunity to eat them. I get so excited writing menus at this time of year too, taking our favourite classic food items and putting my twist on them.

What’s your favourite food trend? I’m a big fan of the current street food trend. The casual ‘grab & go’ scene, where it gives individuals the opportunity to specialise in creating food that is unique, different and personal from all cultures. Korean food has been a real favourite of mine recently and I think (and truly hope) this is something that will continue into 2016. What will you be cooking at home this autumn/winter? Simple, warming meals that are quick to put together and can be shared amongst a big table of friends or family. My Spiced Roast Lamb recipe is still a firm favourite as it’s packed with some beautiful flavours. (Plus, it can sit happily in the fridge marinating whilst you’re indulging in a glass of wine) then cooked for an alternative Sunday lunch that really wows the family. This recipe is taken from Luke’s Cookbook - 100 Classic Favourites (lukethomas.co.uk; lukeseatinghouse.com)

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

R a w choco l a t e b ro w n i e w i t h d a i r yfr e e fro s t i n g

From Galia Orme, Founder of CHOC Chick Ingredients 240g walnuts or mixed nuts (eg 2 packets, 120g each, of mixed nuts including almonds, hazelnuts, brazil nuts with walnuts). Pinch of salt 12 pitted medjool dates, unsoaked 6 tbsp CHOC Chick raw cacao powder 3 tbsp Sweet Freedom or agave syrup 1 tsp vanilla bean extract 3 tsp water For the frosting 25g CHOC Chick raw cacao butter 2 tbsp CHOC Chick raw cacao powder 1-2 tbsp Sweet Freedom or agave syrup - to taste ½ teaspoon vanilla bean extract ¼ cup coconut cream Method 1 Blend nuts and salt in a food processor until finely ground. 2 Add dates, raw cacao powder, agave/Sweet Freedom and vanilla, process until mixture begins to stick together. 3 Add the water and process briefly. 4 Line a tray with greaseproof paper and leave extra paper on the sides to cover the mix. Add the mix and even out till about 1-1½ half inches thick. Tip: cover the mix with the extra greaseproof paper and use to smooth the mix out. 5 Place in the freezer for around 20 minutes to set while you prepare the delicious frosting. 6 Melt the raw cacao butter in a bowl over a pan of boiling water. 7 Once melted, turn the heat off and add the cacao powder, agave syrup and vanilla and mix well. 8 Add the cream and mix again. The consistency will become thicker as the cream is added. Leave for a few moments to thicken. 9 Spread evenly over the brownie mix and place in the fridge to set for about 30 mins. 10 Finish with freshly chopped chives.

ABOUT GALIA I’m not sure that we really need to ask, but what is your favourite food? I love chocolate! Chocolate has always been a big part of my life and some of my earliest childhood memories are of making and eating chocolate as a child in South America. Since discovering how to make raw chocolate in early 2008, my life has been transformed. I am even more obsessed with chocolate than before, and love how simple and creative it is to make them.

What makes your job so special? Being able to meet the farmers we source our ingredients from has been one of the biggest highlights of my life, and I am extremely proud of being able to offer a healthy and ethical alternative to commercially produced chocolates. CHOC Chick is available at Harvey Nichols (harveynichols.com; chocchick.com)

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24/09/15 17:04

A very good year Infamous for its prestigious Chateaux, Bordeaux wines have faced criticism in recent years for overpriced bottles and underwhelming releases. Yet with a promising new vintage reigniting interest in the region, Amy Welch discovers whether Bordeaux is still the wise investment it once was

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aving recently considered the leap from novel enthusiast to bona-fide collector myself, Bordeaux appeared the obvious choice for investing in fine wine, having first piqued my interest during a balmy summer sojourn to the region. However, one brief glance at the value of my favourite few vintages on the wine-exchange market and any rose-tinted ideas of grand investment were swiftly clouded. The collection of wine may not be a new phenomenon, but it still retains serious cachet when it comes to investing in this beverage of the grape variety. Flourishing from an informal trade between merchants more than 200 years ago, today the investment of fine wine is thought to be a $10bn global market. Recent years have proved decidedly tough for Bordeaux wines, seeing a steady drop from the rest of the market after trading at a high premium in 2010 and 2011. Since the superb vintages of 2009 and 2010, trading has since been on a four-year downturn. It seems the

bubble of Bordeaux has burst, at least according to The Wealth Report 2014 from Knight Frank, wherein some of the biggest names in the region occupied the bottom of the Fine Wine index. Yet beyond the highs and lows of the market, a joyous upturn can be glimpsed on the horizon – good news for wine collectors who hold sentimental favour for the wines of Bordeaux. “2014 is the best vintage we’ve seen for three or four years,” says Gary Owen, fine wine private account manager at Berry Bros & Rudd. “We have definitely seen people look away from Bordeaux through its less-than-stellar vintages, but with 2014 being so much stronger than those three years before it, I would expect a natural flow back towards Bordeaux.” Despite what most consider a wild overpricing of the last three vintages and fears of buyers’ lost confidence, Bordeaux remains a tempting choice for long-term investment. “Bordeaux is

images courtesy Berry Bros and Rudd

“2014 is the best vintage we’ve seen for three or four years”

Mouton-Rothschild, after price reductions have indeed heightened collectors’ desire to buy. “[At Berry Bros] we have seen MoutonRothschild, one of the five Bordeaux firstgrowths, come out at a very good price, £1,170 for six bottles, and that has absolutely engaged the market,” Owen explains. “We’ve sold hundreds of cases with ease and have had to go

“This vintage [2005]alone won’t herald a mass return to Bordeaux”

image courtesy Berry Bros and Rudd

back to the market to look for second and third allocations.” Promising as this sounds, experts such as Elswood remain cautious: “This vintage alone won’t herald a mass return to Bordeaux.” The disillusioned fate of the en primeur system has also taken its toll on Bordeaux. As each springtime rolls into bloom and the days become ever warmer and languorously longer, the season of en primeur descends upon the wine industry, creating a flurry of critiques and hopeful investments. In theory, the process is simple: the investment of fine wine at a fraction of the price before it is released on to the market, in return for the elevated risk of still without doubt the most important purchasing wines that may lose value region for buyers globally, and the top over time. However, in recent years, Chateaux of Bordeaux still represents the system has encountered harsh the pinnacle of wine for many criticism. The year 2011 saw both a consumers,” says David Elswood, dear and underwhelming vintage in international director of Christie’s Top 3 wine. “Stability [in the market] will wines for Bordeaux, while even the 2009, return when the price of release collecting widely regarded as one of the great vintages in recent history, has since matches up with the collectors’ now: fallen in value from its high en desire to buy.” With fresh consumer primeur asking price. In a system that interest in the 2005 vintage 2005 Bordeaux esteemed wine critic Robert Parker (unanimously considered to be of has described as self-destructing, superb quality by critics) an – albeit 2002 vintage for there are conflicting views in the slight – turnaround can be seen in Champagne industry as to en primeur’s benefit for the market. Enthusiastic collectors (Bollinger or Dom investors and collectors. “Where the are primarily returning to the Pérignon) informal rules of engagement are renowned left-bank Chateaux, followed, it can benefit everybody namely Latour, Lafite, Margaux and 2010 Barolo

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involved – the system works,” says Owen, who has recently returned from this year’s tastings in Europe. “It’s a very transparent global market now, and not every Chateau is producing their wines just to hit a good price point in Britain.” When it comes to laying down a collection of fine wine for future enjoyment, one can indulge in the luxury of sentimentality and taste preference that purely profit-yielding investments lack. Such a collection should possess a vintage that will age and mature gracefully, and learned advice from Christie’s is to “think like a collector and be driven by passion and knowledge”. From the respectable vintage of 2014, collectors are presented with a number of fruitful options. “From this en primeur, some magnums of Chateau Barton or Pontet-Canet, wonderful St Julien or Pauillac wines would be excellent in 15 or 20 years’ time,” says Owen. Not traditionally an investable item, Port is also becoming an increasingly

popular choice to lay down for the future as collectors have diversified away from Bordeaux. Owen explains: “The 2011 vintage is one of the great Port vintages – you only get a vintage of that quality once every 20 or 25 years.” Be it Port, Bordeaux or one of many other spectacular regions, a collector of fine wine will have numerous options to expand this year, regardless of market indices. “For somebody who wants to [collect] to drink, it is about them and what they want, whereas you have to have a level of detachment for a sound financial decision,” says Owen. Thus lies the significant difference between investors and collectors. Where one leads with the head, the other leads with the heart, and the tastebuds. As for Bordeaux, “things are looking up slowly,” says Owen. “The quality step from 2013 to 2014 in Bordeaux vintage is bigger than the positive news in the market. Although, any good news is very good – [Bordeaux] is on the road to recovery.”

MIXING IT UP It’s no secret; cocktails are well and truly having a moment. Gemma Knight went along to this year’s revered London Cocktail Week to meet some of the world’s most respected bartenders and find out what’s hot in the world of mixology – whether you’re an expert, or an eager beginner

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left: best international bartender of the year, ryan chetiyawardana right: russell burgess

“S

ometimes people want the greatest cocktail they’re ever likely to taste. Sometimes they just want to get drunk,” explains Russell Burgess matter-of-factly, immediately apologising for sounding like a budget Mr Miyagi. But of course he’s right and, as one of the UK’s most indemand bartenders, so he should be. I’m at London Cocktail Week, a whirlwind of pop-up bars, masterclasses and limited-edition cocktails which sprawls across the capital and seems to mushroom in size each year, chatting to Russell (head bartender at Loves Company) and his fellow bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana (AKA Mr Lyan, founder of White Lyan) – the latter of whom was crowned Best International Bartender of the Year at the Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirit Awards in New Orleans earlier this year. As both of these men are well aware – and as the explosive popularity of London Cocktail Week proves – we are a nation increasingly addicted to sophisticated, elaborate mixed drinks, the like of which hasn’t been seen on the bar scene since pre-prohibition New York. Over the past decade the rise of the experimental cocktail has taken the country (and indeed the world) by storm, leaving the days of the humble G&T, mai tai and margarita far behind in a dizzying avalanche of spiralling new trends, high-end spirits, fresh ingredients and technical breakthroughs. Why, only last week I was served a sauvignon blanc and cachaça concoction inside a full-size snow globe, complete with coconut snowflakes and Big Ben figurine. We’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto. And what about the men behind the

mixology? Both love what they do, but admit that bartending can be a gruelling profession at times. “It’s hard work, but it’s worth it,” Russell tells me. “You need a lot of patience, the ability to talk a lot without saying too much, and endless humility; it’s clichéd, but we’re in the business of selling dreams without getting too caught up in them. And then you need that element of OCD – that attention to every single detail.” Ryan, who trained as a chef before being “lured to the bar” by the enticing mix of the creative and social which it offered, immediately agrees. “You have to have a love for being around people, and a sense of balance – balance in everything!” He says: “The best part of the job is being around people – the people who come to the bars, the people we get to interact and collaborate with, and especially my teams.” With an ongoing goal of getting “more people drinking better”, Ryan certainly has his work cut out for him – though heaven knows most of us need a guiding hand when it comes to heavy bitters, frothy egg whites and smoky mescal. But lucky for those keen but tentative drinkers among us, I’m told there’s been a return to a focus on simple, classic cocktails and an end to twelveingredient drinks steadily taking hold over the past couple of years. This means that, with the help of one of the many cocktail starter kits now on offer (we like the pretty, practical range from Tippleworth), it’s now easier than ever to discover your inner cocktail guru. Buck the trends, create your own or follow the masters – but whatever you do, make it a double. The next London Cocktail Week will take place in October 2016. For info, check out londoncocktailweek.com

The Old Fashioned Cocktail Case, £185 (tipplesworth.com)

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

R YA N O N T R E N D S Current favourite: Tropical flavours executed with attention – not full of sugar, and not tasting super artificial. The next big thing: House Fermented products – bringing new ranges of flavours and textures. Do it yourself Butter Mint Drop (created at Aqua Nueva) Buttered Tanqueray 10 gin, tiramisu syrup and mint soda, served on the rocks and garnished with a mint sprig Cantana Profana (created at Apero) Portobello Road gin, red vermouth, sherry, lime juice, cinnamon sugar and soda. Mellow Yellow (created at Eclipse Chelsea) Don Julio Reposado tequila, lime juice, passion fruit puree, sweet yellow pepper.

RUSSELL ON TRENDS Current favourite: I recently attended a seminar by the delightful Julian De Feral at The Boutique Bar Show, which was incredibly informative. It focused almost entirely on the method of barrel-ageing cocktails. It divides opinion, but then most things in our industry do; we’re a pretty opinionated bunch! The next big thing: Surely it’s time to reinvent the classic 80’s wine bars?? Do it yourself Spiced Blueberry Daiquiri (created at Kopapa) Pink Pigeon vanilla spiced rum, lime juice, aleppo chilli syrup, blueberry puree. Dirty Bastard (created at Dirty Bones) Rye whiskey, rum, lemon juice, maple syrup, raspberries, chocolate bitters. Smoky Plum Cocktail (created at GNH Bar) Laphroaig whiskey, gin, lemon juice, plum, cinnamon.

For the experts I’ve got 99 bourbons, but a beech ain’t one (created at Buffalo Bourbon Empire) Buffalo Trace, Aunt Jemima’s corn syrup, mint and chocolate bitters muddled together and served with a beech smoke and chocolate soil. Blessed Thistle (created at 46 & Mercy) Ketel One, thyme, lemon and wine that has been fat washed with pork drippings from HotBox. The Prohibition (created at The Vault Soho) Whiskey, cherry liqueur, dry vermouth, homemade amer picon, orange bitters. La Cabana (created at LAB Bar) Bacardi carta blanca rum, blackberry liqueur, MONIN mango syrup, lime juice, apple sauce.

The Queens Back Yard (created at Salvatore’s Bar) Beefeater 24 gin infused with rhubarb, apple juice, elderflower cordial, strawberry sherbet.

For the experts Original Sin (created at Smith & Whistle) Jameson Caskmates whiskey, red wine reduction, homemade spiced syrup and stout foam. Breeders Cup (created at Bread Street Kitchen) Bombay Sapphire gin infused with sage, lillet, bitter aperitif, grapefruit juice, egg white, lemon, grapefruit bitters Little Red Door (created at Trailer Happiness)Doorly’s 3 year old rum, Velvet Falernum, pomegranate molasses, blood orange, lime.

HOMEMAID With the final series of Downton Abbey keeping us glued to our screens, Natalie Anglesey speaks to Sue Johnston about the Lady’s maid, family and football

“I

love living in Wilmslow,” beams popular actress Sue Johnston OBE. “But I’m not like the Real Housewives on television,” laughs the award-winning actress. Known for roles in Brookside, Waking The Dead, The Royle Family, Coronation Street and, Downton Abbey, life’s been hectic since she moved into her spacious Cheshire home two years ago. “I’m proud to still be a working mother and grandmother – in fact, it was because I wanted to watch my grandson growing up that I moved back

north after a spell in London,” Sue explains as she reveals the toys that invade her study. “Now I have the best of both worlds because I regularly see my wonderful grandson Rory, his mother and my photographer son Joel, when he’s not busy working abroad. I’m also near my beloved Jemma who, in tragic circumstances, lost her family and became part of mine. She’s like a daughter to me, and with her children we have rather large family gatherings!” When we meet, Sue has already filmed her final

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scenes in Downton Abbey, in which she plays Denker, Lady’s maid to the Dowager Countess, played by Dame Maggie Smith. “When Julian Fellowes first rang me, we got on like a house on fire because we share a mutual love of dogs.” On cue Sue’s two very large dogs burst in to warmly greet me. “When Julian invited me to join Downton, he gave apologies because it was only a small role. I’ve always believed in my profession there’s no such thing as a small role. It was a privilege to join such a quality production, and the cast includes old friends like Lesley Nicol, who plays Mrs Patmore, so I’ve enjoyed every minute.” Born in Warrington, Sue grew up in Prescot and was educated at Prescot and Huyton Grammar School for Girls, which she left at 17

after completing one year of her A-level course. “I’d been taken as a child to pantomimes and the ballet in Manchester and had already decided I wanted to become an actress, so I didn’t see the point of wasting more time at school. I worked for Brian Epstein in his music shop and found him charming but rather distant. I’d also fallen in love with the drummer of The Swinging Blue Jeans, so that clinched it. “I belonged to various theatre groups and we thought nothing of wearing our costumes on the bus to entertain in old folk’s homes. But my mother was horrified when I left school. Thankfully she saw the start of recognition for my work. When I was awarded the OBE in 2009 she met the Queen, although she was far more excited to meet Sir Paul McCartney, who came over to say hello because we’d known one another growing up.” After working as a tax inspector, Sue trained at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London. She worked in theatre and in education and was a founding member of the excellent M6 Theatre

“When Julian Fellowes first rang me, we got on like a house on fire because we share a mutual love of dogs”

left to right: with on screen husband ricky tomlinson in the royle family; sue johnston portrait; ‘downton abbey’

Company. But she became a household name mainly through her television work. “I played Mrs Chadwick, a bookmaker’s wife, in Coronation Street in 1982 and returned in 2012 to play Gloria. But from 1982 until 1990, I’d played Sheila Grant in Brookside and that really established me with television audiences. Phil Redmond made such innovative television filming in real houses with the first episode airing on Channel 4’s inauguration day. I made friends for life in Ricky Tomlinson and John McArdle, while Phil and I met again recently in Chester when we were awarded honorary degrees.” Since then Sue has appeared in many drama series and films, including Inspector Morse, Brassed Off and My Uncle Silas. In 1992 she gave a superb performance in the award-winning drama series Goodbye Cruel World, with Alun Armstrong and Jonny Lee Miller, in which she portrayed a woman coming to terms with a muscle-wasting illness. “My lovely dad was really proud of me.” Another iconic role for Sue was as Barbara Royle, with Ricky Tomlinson as her husband, in several BBC comedy series of The Royle Family. In 2000 she also starred in the television series Waking The Dead, in which she played psychological profiler Grace Foley, alongside Trevor Eve.

“Quality writing has always attracted me, and that was something special.” Sue also returned to the stage starring opposite Patrick Stewart in The Master Builder at London’s National Theatre, while at Manchester’s Royal Exchange she appeared in Richard II and Hindle Wakes. Most recently, Sue was invited by SKY Arts to be the subject of a series of portraits by Dutch artist Christian Hook. “I was flattered but confused why he’d chosen me along with Mick Hucknall and Fabrice Muamba, until I realised we all shared a passion for football. Mick’s a Manchester United supporter, footballer Fabrice Muamba was considered dead on the pitch for six minutes and then made that

“When I was awarded the OBE in 2009 [my mother] met the Queen, although she was far more excited to meet Sir Paul McCartney, who came to say hello because we’d known one another growing up”

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miraculous recovery, while I’m a huge fan of Liverpool Football Club and Warrington FC.” As Sue shows me the striking, large canvases, she explains: “We were able to choose locations, to sit for our portraits, so I chose Anfield for obvious reasons. When I explained about the Hillsborough disaster, Christian kindly painted a separate canvas, which was auctioned for £35,000 to support the families who lost loved ones on that terrible day.” Moved by memories of the tragedy, this compassionate woman pauses a moment before clearing her throat. “I also chose the Bolton Octagon for another location, where I’d appeared in Jim Cartwright’s play Two with my old Brookside friend John McArdle. We brought a whole new television audience to the theatre, which sold out. There Christian painted me in character and another of me looking at me in character. I find both unsettling as I still haven’t worked out the magic of acting when you become

“Quality writing has always attracted me, and that was something special” someone else. I still can’t bear to watch myself on television.” Not that the busy actress will have much time to watch television in the run up to Christmas. “I’d recorded a BBC Radio 4 series called Love In Recovery when it was 15-minute playlets. Now we’re recording a whole new series, which I’m looking forward to, because they’ve been expanded into 30-minute episodes. “I’m also filming a comedy series called The Rovers with Mark Benton, directed by Craig Cash from The Royle Family, so that will be fun. Then it will be a jolly family Christmas – because, although I love my job, my family is what’s really important to me.”

left to right: sue and john mcardle as sheila grant and billy corkhill in brookside; with onscreen family, the royles; receiving her obe from the queen in 2009; sue with grandson, rory

IMAGE BY Ana del Castillo Shutterstock.com

The literary come to Chester With the Chester Literature Festival 2015 taking over the city this month, there’s never been a better time to catch up on your culture. Boasting more than 45 events and such names as Nick Frost, Dom Joly, Vince Cable, Ranulph Fiennes, Tracey Thorn, David Starkey and Gogglebox regular William Hartson, the event includes everything from book launches and author talks to performances, live poetry, comedy, pub crawls, workshops and master classes. The event is likely to be popular as ever, so be sure to book your tickets ASAP. 10-25 October, Chester Town Hall & Library (chesterliteraturefestival.co.uk)

Arts & Culture Natalie Angelsey and Gemma Knight bring you not-to-miss shows and news from the world of the arts

Can you hear the distant drums? This month marks your last chance to see Distant Drumbeat at Lyme Park, the piece of contemporary interactive artwork on show there since the summer. Created by Sean Griffiths, the work is part of the National Trust’s contemporary art programme and aims to link the three-storey lantern, situated in Lantern Wood, with Lyme Park Hall through the use of light and sound – intriguing since we still don’t know what the lantern was used for. Until 31 October, Lyme Park, Disley, Stockport, Cheshire, SK12 2NR

Children of the revolution Don’t forget that round 2 of the Revolution Series comes to Manchester on 24 October. Boasting such big names as Chris Hoy and Bradley Wiggins among its previous competitors, and the expertise of official timekeepers Festina, the series pits some of the biggest sports stars against each other, with points gained across six rounds and the team with the most at the end of the season taking the champion title. Get your tickets now! (cyclingrevolution.com) 52

literary itinerary

Based in Paris, Alberto Pinto was widely considered to be one of the most talented decorators of his generation. With an exceptional eye for design, a deep understanding of local cultures and a real flair for innovation, the designer made a real impression on the world of interior design, leaving behind a legacy that will last for decades to come. The Alberto Pinto company continues to bring his visions to life and Alberto Pinto: Signature Interiors presents the agency’s most recent creations in all their glory. Mirroring Pinto’s precision and attention to detail, the never-beforeseen designs featured include historical residences, lavish apartments and even a Middle Eastern palace. With a foreword by Hubert de Givenchy and stunning imagery, this tome will make the perfect addition to any stylish coffee table. Alberto Pinto: Signature Interiors, £50, published by Flammarion (groupe-flammarion.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture

And Then There Were None

loves

Celebrating the tenth anniversary of the Agatha Christie Theatre Company, a group assemble on a remote island but are killed off one by one. Colin Buchanon, Mark Wynter and Mark Curry star in this murder mystery. Opera House, 16-21 November (0844 871 3019; atgtickets.com/manchester)

T h e C u r i o u s Inc i d e nt of the Dog in the N i g h t- T i m e

The National Theatre’s multi award-winning production returns by popular demand. But you’ve only got one week to see this powerful play written by Stockport’s Simon Stephens and directed by Manchester’s Marianne Elliott. Fight to get a ticket! The Lowry, 17- 21 November (thelowry.com)

Pa p e r G o d s

British rock legends start their Paper Gods tour in Manchester this November, returning for the first time since their All You Need is Now tour in 2011. There will be the latest album tracks, but get your vocal chords in tune for guaranteed anthems Rio and Girls on Film. Duran Duran, 27 November (manchester-arena.com)

Guys and Dolls

Starring Olivier Award-winning actress Sophie Thompson, this sizzling New York tale of gangsters, gamblers, night-club singers and Salvationists belongs to the golden age of musicals. The show-stopping tunes include Luck Be A Lady, Sit Down You’re Rockin’ The Boat and My Time of Day. Don’t leave it to Lady Luck before you book! The Palace Theatre, 10-21 November (0844 871 3019; atgtickets.com/manchester)

T h e L a s t T a ng o

The Last Tango is your final chance to see ex-Strictly stars Vincent Simone and Claudia Cacace demonstrate why they are world title holders. The Opera House, 10-14 November (0844 871 3019; atgtickets.com/manchester)

Marina Schiano wearing the short evening dress, Haute couture collection Fall-Winter 1970, © The Estate of Jeanloup Sieff

Exhibition Focus

Yves Saint Laurent: Style is Eternal To celebrate the visionary couturier Yves Saint Laurent, escaping to the northeast this month may be well worth your while as the Bowes Museum hosts the UK’s first-ever exhibition of the famed designer’s archive WORDS: AMY WELCH

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art & Culture

ves Saint Laurent’s approach to style has transcended short-lived fashion trends decade upon decade. Today, his lasting legacy of effortless style still informs contemporary fashion, and his designs will never be forgotten. For the visionary couturier, it was the elegance of women that he looked to celebrate, and built his iconic fashion brand on the sentiment, ‘fashion fades, style is eternal’. This summer, the Bowes Museum, together with the Fondation Pierre Bergé, holds the UK’s first retrospective of Saint Laurent, including garments that redefined the way society viewed womenswear. Born in French Algeria, a young Saint Laurent was introduced to the world of haute couture in Paris, under the tutelage of Christian Dior – he would later head the eponymous fashion house. There Saint Laurent gained much acclaim for his forward-thinking designs and constantly pushed the boundaries of what was considered both feminine and elegant, a talent which only intensified upon launching his own house with then partner Pierre Bergé, the maison Yves Saint Laurent. Sending the first tuxedo, pantsuit and jumpsuit down his runways in the mid-1960s, Saint Laurent resonated with a society yearning for change and spoke to a new and awakened generation of women, seeking empowerment and independence. By translating masculine dress codes into seductively feminine shapes, a new frontier of style was born. A true testament to Saint Laurent’s far-reaching sartorial prowess, he was the first living designer to be honoured with a solo exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 1983. And now, our fascination with the design extraordinaire has been renewed. Last year the biography Yves Saint Laurent, documenting the bashful young designer’s propulsion to fame, personal demons and fashion legacy, was a runaway box office hit. On browsing the impressive collection of garments on display at the Bowes Museum it’s easy to see why. From fitted blazer to sequin evening gown, one unifying factor cannot escape my mind; whether residing in Saint Laurent’s very first collection or his last, each design presents familiar shapes or small details still

portrait of Yves Saint Laurent, 1964, © Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent / Maurice Hogenboom

evident in today’s fashions. What we consider staples of timeless style – the black jumpsuit, the minimalist peacoat were all introduced by Yves Saint Laurent. In fact, glancing at one jet-black tuxedo ensemble, there is little of the modern woman’s quintessential

‘Saint Laurent possessed an eclectic array of artistic influences’ wardrobe which has not been influenced in some way by the late great designer. Although the androgynous lines of the female tuxedo are marked in my mind as his defining aesthetic, in truth Saint Laurent possessed an eclectic array of artistic influences. From paying homage to the pop art movement with the art-inspired Mondrian dress to designing costumes for theatre and ballet, Saint Laurent continually sourced his inspiration from culture and the world around him. Decades on and the tale of the young man from French Algeria who took the fashion world by storm and turned it on its head is still celebrated around the world. With the Bowes Museum presenting a unique narrative on one of the fashion world’s leading figures, it is the personality behind the label, the style behind the fashion, as Saint Laurent so adamantly believed, which will remain eternal. Yves Saint Laurent: Style is Eternal, from now until 25 October at the Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, Newgate, County Durham DL12 (01833 690606; thebowesmuseum.org.uk)

Short cocktail dress. Tribute to Piet Mondrian, Haute couture collection, FallWinter 1965, © Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent / Alexandre Guirkinger

Art & Culture | The CHESHIRE Magazine

PRIZE LOTs

1 2

#1 Orphaned Cheetah Cubs, Mweiga, Kenya, 1968 by Peter Beard The American artist, photographer and writer Peter Beard has spent much of his career in Africa, documenting the animals he has encountered. Depicting two endearing cheetah cubs in Kenya’s Mweiga National Park, this piece reflects the diarist in Beard, who notably annotates his striking photography. Estimate: $10,000 – $15,000, Bonhams, 27 October (bonhams.com)

#2 Painting of Joey Ramone by Shepard Fairey Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Hilfiger’s eponymous brand, this exhibition of Rock Style celebrates the dialogue between fashion, music and photography, documenting self-styled icons for

whom clothing formed a central part of their identity as artists. Auctioned work will include this glorious painting of Joey Ramone by contemporary street artist, graphic designer and illustrator Shepard Fairey. Estimate: $40,000, Sotheby’s, 22 September - 30 October (sothebys.com)

#3 Shanghai Yue Liang (Shanghai Moons) set of four watches Celebrating the dynamism of Chinese decorative art, these unique watches feature different phases of the moon, hand-etched into each clock face. The limited-edition set is presented in an African Blackwood box and is inspired by Nasa photographs, interpreting time as a luxury. Estimate: ¥300,000 – ¥350,000, Christie’s, 24 October (christies.com)

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Watch news This month we honour Vacheron Constantin’s 260 year journey, start gearing up for the UK’s largest watch fair and covet the new and improved Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar from Audemars Piguet words: richard brown

A tale as old as time It may not be the world’s oldest watch brand (Blancpain was founded in 1735), but having survived wars, political unrest and economic downturns, Vacheron Constantin is the only watchmaker that can claim to have been producing timepieces uninterrupted since 1755 – and it’s now released a book honouring that 260 year journey. More than a celebratory pat-on-the-back, Vacheron Constantin - Artists of Time is a fascinating account of the history of watchmaking by the industry’s longest-serving custodian. Order one for your coffee table now. Vacheron Constantin - Artists of Time, Vacheron Constantin (vacheron-constantin.com)

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ONE TO WATCH “For the first time in their history Tudor have developed their own Calibre MT5621 and housed it in a brand new watch – the North Flag, with a 40mm stainless-steel case and matte-ceramic rim around the bezel and distinctly retro feel.” Lee Chadwick, Manager of David M Robinson’s Manchester showroom, 28 St Anns Square, Manchester M2 7JB

Backes & Strauss opens London Flagship SalonQP returns to Saatchi Gallery SalonQP, the UK’s largest watch fair, rolls into the Saatchi Gallery this month. A.Lange & Söhne, Tudor and Ralph Lauren return to the show, which will feature more than 80 exhibitors, including Bremont, Bell & Ross, Chopard, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Harry Winston and Montblanc. Auction houses Bonham’s and Fellows will also be attendance, as will the winning watches from the 2015 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. Founded in 2003 and operated by the Telegraph Media Group since 2014, last year’s SalonQP attracted more than 7,000 visitors, confirming it as one of Europe’s leading public watch fairs. 12-14 November 2015, Saatchi Gallery (saatchigallery.com)

Backes & Strauss, the world’s oldest diamond company, has opened its first flagship store in Mayfair. Alongside the brand’s diamond-heavy timepieces, the location houses historical archives dating back to the 1800s, when Backes & Strauss sourced and polished diamonds for the likes of Cartier, Bulgari, Tiffany, Mikimoto and Boucheron. Coinciding with the opening of the store is the launch of the Regent Beau Brummell Tourbillon pocket watch, a moon phase-equipped accessory that shimmers with 1,669 diamonds. Backes & Strauss (backesandstrauss.com)

AP upgrades an icon Behold Audemars Piguet’s new Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar. Same as the old one, you may think. But take a closer look. Having grown to 41mm, the rakishly handsome timepiece has been enhanced by the addition of a week indicator at the perimeter of its dial. It will now tell you the day and date of the month as well as the week of the year. A moon phase at 6 o’clock completes proceedings. Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar, £69,800 in rose gold, £44,500 in steel, Audemars Piguet (audemarspiguet.com) 59

Elegance of Tarporley 57 High Street Tarporley CW6 0DP Tel: 01829 733595

Elegance of Tarporley is proud to announce our new boutique opening soon in Sandbach.

Labels we carry: Caroline Biss, Tuzzi, Oui, Marie Mero, Michaela Louisa, Leo & Ugo, Marella, Olsen and many more

| www.elegance-tarporley.co.uk |

Opening Times; Monday 10.30 - 5 Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 5.30 Out of hours appointments are available on request

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A little flutter

he striking new Askill collection from Georg Jensen is a delicate selection of sterling silver and yellow gold pieces featuring beautifully crafted butterflies. Drawing on the vast Georg Jensen heritage, Australian-born sculptor and artist Jordan Askill has rendered the enchanting, lifelike animals so that they almost seem to be in motion as they grace each piece with their fragile beauty. We especially love this incredible neckring, made from black rhodium-plated sterling silver â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the perfect, unusual piece to complement any evening ensemble. (davidmrobinson.co.uk)

Jewellery news

WORDS: OLIVIA SHARPE

Trade secret Secrets by Harry Winston, the jewellerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest high jewellery collection, pays tribute to its enigmatic founder who, due to an unusual clause in his insurance policy, was forbidden to show his face to the public and was therefore often pictured as a silhouette. Each piece subsequently has its own secret element, such as the Winston Cluster bracelet, which features an emerald discreetly hidden behind the houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic motif. Many of the 29 pieces have also been cleverly designed to be worn in more ways than one. The Secret Wonder revolving medallion necklace, for instance, has been set with round and pear-shaped diamonds on one side but when spun round, it reveals sapphires, aquamarines and diamonds. Secrets by Harry Winston, POA (harrywinston.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

Cutting Edge Jeweller Glenn Spiro has spread his wings with his latest collection of unique butterfly pieces, created exclusively for his boutique in Harrods:

“I wanted to create a jewel quite unlike what has been done before… something light and animated that reflects the true spirit of butterflies. We developed a mechanism that makes the butterfly wings flutter while being worn – creating something truly playful and surprising” – Glenn Spiro

Butterfly natural Burma ruby ring mounted in titanium with 431 brilliant cut Burma rubies and 253 brilliant-cut white diamonds; Butterfly ring made in titanium and white gold, and set with 332 sapphires and 334 diamonds POA, exclusive to Harrods (harrods.com)

Fine feather Winged, bejewelled creatures set the scene in Lalique’s AW15 fine jewellery collection, which has been influenced by the Art Nouveau period and its preoccupation with natural motifs. The menagerieinspired line includes the Perroquet collection; inspired by founder René Lalique’s love of parrots, it captures the exotic bird in a number of brightlycoloured forms, including a pendant made of yellow gold, blue, orange and pink sapphires, Paraiba tourmalines and emeralds, matching earrings and a ring. (lalique.com)

A new leaf

All that glitters Mappin & Webb has just released news of their Christmas gift sets, and unsurprisingly we are thoroughly smitten. The Diamond Essentials Gift Set features an elegant diamond pendant and a pair of diamond stud earrings (set in white or yellow gold with 0.26 and 0.32 carat diamonds), while the Gossamer Gift Set includes a diamond necklace and matching

diamond stud earrings. Then there’s the Freshwater Pearl Set and the Masquerade Gift Set (the latter featuring an exquisite ‘flower’ of brilliant cut diamonds), and last but not least, the stunning Eternity Ring, a one carat ring set in either yellow or white gold. Suddenly our Christmas list has just doubled in size. (mappinandwebb.com)

This month, jewellery designer Aurélie Bidermann has created an exclusive capsule collection for luxury fashion e-tailer Matches Fashion. Encompassing just seven pieces, the familiar designs take their cues from the jeweller’s Gingko collection, but have been updated in rose gold and navy blue enamel. Aurélie Bidermann explains: “I wanted to play with the DNA of the brand. Nature has always been a great source of inspiration for me, especially the ginkgo leafs…The navy blue enamel was the perfect combination and always suggests travels and serenity to me.” Available from 1 October, prices from £165 (matchesfashion.com)

Collection | The CHESHIRE Magazine

#1 #3

#10 #6

#17

#18

Into the Woods #16

From skulls to deadly spiders, take your pick of the most nightmarish fine jewels this Halloween #12 #14

#11 #13

#15

#1 Magnipheasant necklace, £2,750, Stephen Webster (matchesfashion.com) #2 Thorn earrings, £3,850, Stephen Webster (matchesfashion.com) #3 Le Bouquet ring, £4,621, Gaelle Khouri (gaellekhouri.com) #4 Pigne gold-tone quartz earrings, £150, Rosantica (net-a-porter.com) #5 Bianca gold-plated onyx necklace, £485, Aurélie Bidermann (net-a-porter.com) #6 Twig gold-plated necklace, £88, Diane von Furstenberg (matchesfashion.com) #7 Dagger Rosary silver necklace, £155, Pamela Love (net-a-porter.com) #8 Lock-up pendant, £1,862, Gaelle Khouri (gaellekhouri.com) #9 Diamond, agate and rose gold ring, £4,250, Monique Péan (matchesfashion.com) #10 Lucia gold-tone, onyx and volcanic lava necklace, £505, Rosantica, as before #11 Owl ring, £2,759, Gaelle Khouri (gaellekhouri.com) #12 Diamond, agate, spectrolite and gold earrings, £7,438, Monique Péan (matchesfashion.com) #13 Spider’s Web ring, POA, Buccellati (buccellati.com) #14 White diamond bar ring, £918.09, Diane Kordas (dianekordasjewellery.com) #15 Fly by Night ring, £2,550, Stephen Webster (matchesfashion.com) #16 Diamond feather earrings, £5,275, Rosa de la Cruz (farfetch.com) #17 Eclipse diamond and moonstone ring, £7,250, Noor Fares (matchesfashion.com) #18 Vanitas ring, £3,400, Solange Azagury-Partridge (solange.co.uk) 64

HAMPTON LIVING East coast style for you and your home Furniture | Accessories | Interior Design www.hamptonliving.co.uk

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Colour code Embracing clean lines and bold colours, Salvatore Ferragamo’s collection for AW15 carefully treads a fine sartorial line between refined and playful. With geometric shapes bringing to mind any number of abstract Sonia Delaunay works, the tailored coats and dresses especially hold a distinct 1960s look. And the finishing touch of the collection is the autumnal palette of reds, oranges and caramel set against a contrasting navy hue. We for one can already predict the tailored jackets will go with almost everything in our wardrobes. Salvatore Ferragamo (ferragamo.com)

Fashion news Brave new world One of Savile Row’s most contemporary tailors, Richard James has long been recognised for its more flamboyant approach to design, and the new AW15 Transandine collection wholeheartedly honours its signature style. Inspired by the sunlit, snow-capped mountains of South America, where 19th-century British engineers crafted the Transandine Railway, the new collection pays tribute to the spirit of British culture, designed in the green, orange and pink colourways of the Andes Mountains. Umbrella, £185, Richard James (richardjames.co.uk)

Tight knit Proudly standing as one of the world’s oldest clothing companies, Wolsey is celebrating its 260-year anniversary this year. With a rich heritage that harks back to the heyday of British exploration, adventure and travel, its new Made in GB capsule collection features durable knitted garments, iconic outerwear staples and warming accessories for those cold autumn days. For traditional, hardy and heritage-rich clothing, the collection from Wolsey is an AW15 must-have. Made in GB Collection, from £45, Wolsey (wolsey.com) 66

Feather in your hat The fedora hat first sealed its style credentials in films such as Casablanca, where few femme fatales delivered a shrewd one-liner without the added panache of a wide-brimmed hat. Today, the timeless accessory appears just as elegant, especially when paired with a sleek black blazer and loosely curled locks for a polished off-duty look. For a modern take on the classic accessory, the electric blue feathers atop this soft felt fedora from British milliner Penmayne of London will confidently carry you into winter. Fedora, £299, Penmayne of London (williamandson.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

Back to school It’s not a trip, for work or play, without your TUMI in tow. This month, the brand has collaborated with New York label, PUBLIC SCHOOL, to create a range inspired by New York, travel and modern architecture. Using TUMI’s Tegris® material on the wheeled pieces, the collection includes a satchel, dopp kit, tote bag and backpack, so you’re covered for all eventualities. PUBLIC SCHOOL X TUMI, from a selection, TUMI (tumi.com)

Double agent Transitioning seamlessly from day to night has, quite rightly, become a stylistic requirement for the modern woman’s wardrobe. Enter Diane von Furstenberg’s Secret Agent handbag, featuring a soft multifunctional leather tote for the day and an interchangeable envelope clutch bag for the evening. A true fusion of practicality and style, this bold pillar box red colour instantly caught our eye; versatility has never appeared so chic. Handbag, £267, Diane von Furstenberg (dvf.com)

Close knit As we wave goodbye to the summer weather, nothing brings more comfort than the thought of Barrie’s feather-soft cashmere to keep us warm in the coming months. Crafting its illustrious wool into contemporary designs, the Scottish house presents Shetland sweaters, sweet floral T-shirts and lightweight ponchos in a seventies-inspired collection of cosy knits. From £163 (barrie.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

Photograph by Darren Sleeblush

The Little

bruce dress

Known for dressing the beautiful and the high-profile in enviable bespoke designs, couturier Bruce Oldfield OBE speaks to Melissa Emerson about his latest collaboration set to storm the high street

he women he has dressed, from Joan Collins and Kim Kardashian to Charlotte Rampling and the late Diana, Princess of Wales, are perhaps more famous than Bruce Oldfield OBE himself, but that balance is certainly shifting. Following the release of his candid autobiography Rootless in 2005, and the launch of his signature scent in 2011, British designer Oldfield is gradually emerging from the shadows of his highly respected couture house in the heart of Knightsbridge. His latest project, a design collaboration with John Lewis, finally hits stores this month, and if John Lewis’ previous collaboration with designer Alice Temperley (its fastest-selling line to date) is anything to go by, it’s sure to be a sell-out. The 60-piece Bruce by Bruce Oldfield capsule collection for AW 15 brings Oldfield’s aesthetics and classic silhouettes to a new and more mainstream audience, and despite the fact the pieces are set to sell for significantly less than his bespoke couture designs command –“I still cannot believe how John Lewis can keep their prices so reasonable!” he exclaimed when we spoke – it doesn’t immediately feel like a compromise. “I worked closely with the John Lewis team to select beautiful fabrics,” he says of the fluid silks, velvet evening wear and key staples in cashmere that pepper the collection. With the added attention to detail of a true couturier, the fabrics are adorned with delicate embroidery, appliqué, metallic print and faux-fur trim. It’s a chance to buy into Oldfield’s luxurious world, and although more immediately evocative of the glamorous winter party season, the largely monochrome collection was in fact loosely Metallic bronze pleat top, £89; Metallic inspired by 1980s bronze pleat skirt, £99

workwear. “It’s all about making visual connections and letting them take you in a new direction. It’s whatever takes my eye and how I respond to it,” Oldfield continues. “I can look at the most ordinary everyday thing and take inspiration from it, and then this can be translated into an embellishment, a print, embroidery or even the shape of the seam. It’s very personal.” With a career spanning 40 years, beginning when he graduated from Central Saint Martins in 1973, Oldfield also has his own significant archive to look to for inspiration. “This collection re-works some of my most classic and well-loved designs. I have been incredibly lucky,” he says, “I’ve created beautiful couture gowns and dressed beautiful women.” And this includes brides. A separate space opposite his showroom houses the exquisite bridal collection, and such is his reputation in the wedding world, most people had quite literally put their money on Oldfield being the one to design the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress. It turned out he wasn’t, but his willingness to take everything as it comes is admirable. “The industry is ever-changing and so is my vision. It’s hard to lose passion when it’s constantly evolving. I enjoy a challenge and with couture that comes every day – you have to dress everybody, every shape and ensure that whoever is wearing your designs feels beautiful,” Oldfield says. Although this capsule collection for John Lewis isn’t made-to-measure, Oldfield’s desire to make his customers feel special is still just as strong, starting with the careful decision of who to collaborate with in the first place. “We wanted to create something special and unique for customers that they cannot get anywhere else. It’s my first ever collection for the UK high street, so it was very important that I chose the right partner to do this with.” He elaborates, “John Lewis was the natural fit. We both believe in attention to detail, and the importance of quality and service, and it was very much a partnership built on trust and respect for one another’s work.” It was, however, a mutual connection with Barnardo’s, the children’s charity, which first brought the two together. John Lewis partnered with the charity during its 150th anniversary

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

LEFT: Monochrome coat, £199, Monochrome panelled jacket, £180, Monochrome dress, £160 BELOW: Little Bruce Dress, £160 *for every dress sold £20 will be donated to Barnardo’s

“Style is ageless. The designs truly came to life when I saw the final product”

celebrations in 2014, and its ongoing commitment to the organisation brought it into contact with Oldfield, who is currently the charity’s vice president. As a gesture of their mutual support, £20 from the sale of each Little Bruce Dress in the collection will go to the charity, and the black silk-panelled piece, a wardrobe staple, is sure to be one of the biggest hits. Sitting alongside it are some more adventurous pieces, such as the full-length, monochrome silk and velvet striped skirt, and Oldfield can’t help but play at favourites: “It is truly iconic and a showstopper of a skirt.” The rest of the collection, still playing with proportion and texture, is a little more versatile, with relaxed tailored separates, elongated lines and nipped-in waists. “Style is ageless. The silhouette for me is key; the designs truly came to life when I saw the final product,” he says. Final product or not, Oldfield is showing no signs of slowing down or putting his decades in the business to bed just yet, although a little time out is admittedly always welcome. “I like to play the piano, and as I travel a lot for work I try to stay in the UK whenever possible,” Oldfield says. And in quintessentially British fashion, this means enjoying the great outdoors with his two dogs, Baz and Boo. “I love the countryside, and I love plants and gardens.” Walks aside, Oldfield is already looking forward to seeing the next Bruce by Bruce Oldfield collection for John Lewis finalised for the SS 16 season. “I’m looking forward to developing this and seeing how far we will take the collections. It could go in so many directions,” he says. Just as Oldfield is one to always think ahead, he similarly believes in harbouring no regrets for whatever has passed. “I’m not sure I would have done anything differently,” he adds. “I suit myself, what I show, when I show it, and I’m very happy with that.” He finishes, “It wouldn’t be me otherwise!” All Bruce by Bruce Oldfield for John Lewis, from £59 (johnlewis.com)

Smoke and

Mirrors

Reflect the glamorous mood of the season with shimmering gowns, jacquard prints, metallic embellishments and sequined accessories

P h o t o g r a p h y: P h i l l i p W at e r m a n s t y l i s t: J e s s S t e b b i n g s

Carmine red floral patchwork quilted cotton trench coat, £2,295, Burberry Prorsum (uk.burberry.com); Gold and pearl earrings, £1,735, Diego Percossi Papi; Diamond Butterfly ring, £14,700, NOA, both at Talisman Gallery, 020 7201 8582

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

ABOVE Metallic brocade Jackie dress, £1,470, Stella McCartney (stellamccartney.com); Gold clutch bag, £550, Butler & Wilson (butlerandwilson.co.uk); Gold and pearl earrings, Talisman Gallery, 020 7201 8582; Double Angel Skinny bracelet, £23,700, Messika, Harrods (harrods.com) RIGHT Darcy sequinned silk gown, £8,850, Ralph Lauren collection (ralphlauren.co.uk); Diamond earrings, £12,890, Amrapali (amrapalijewels.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

ABOVE Rose dress, POA, DVF (dvf.com); Diamond earrings, £14,500, Amrapali (amrapalijewels.com); Diamond ring, £3,525, Bee Goddess, Harrods (harrods.com) LEFT Jacquard jacket, £830, shirt, £230, and jacquard trousers, £520, all Carven (carven.com); Earrings, £169, Amishi (amishi.london); Candice sandals, £470, Pedro García (pedrogarcia.com)

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Above Embellished dress, POA, Philipp Plein (plein.com); Earrings, £279, Amishi (amishi.london) Right Jacquard coat, £1,900, Erdem (erdem.com); Diamond earrings, £14,500, Amrapali (amrapalijewels.com); Diamond ring, Bee Goddess, Harrods (harrods.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Stylist’s Assistant: Jas Reif Hair & Make-Up: Celia Guiney using Kevin Murphy and Cosmetics à La Carte Photographer’s Assistant: Kevin Baker Model: Jhenyfy @ Nevs Models Shot on location at: The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London in the Deluxe Park Suite (mandarinoriental.com/london) 79

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Industrial Beauty

ith a dark felt backdrop, BOSS’ new campaign for AW 15 evokes industrial Berlin, embodied by edgy British model Edie Campbell. Shot by cult photographer duo Inez Van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, it is the third collection from artistic director Jason Wu. Always excelling in workwear for women, this season’s sharply cut dresses, lean trouser suits and outerwear were inspired by the gentlemen’s wardrobe and use traditionally masculine fabrics. Macro-scale tweeds and ladylike handbags in the softest of leathers add a touch of femininity. BOSS (hugoboss.com)

Winter

Collections Marc Cain Collections Marc Cain Sports Diane von Furstenberg D.Exterior Annette Görtz Airfield Class Roberto Cavalli High Day Birger et Mikkelsen Paul Smith Paul and more

50A High Street, TARPORLEY, Cheshire CW6 0AG Tel. 01829 733251

www.sibelle.co.uk

www.facebook.com/si.belle.tarporley Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 – 5:30 and Saturday 9:30 – 5:30

Evenings & Sundays by appointment.

Camouflage couture Burberry has mastered the art of merging fashion with the beauty world since launching its cosmetics collection in 2010. And we couldn’t be more excited for the season ahead, with the launch of its new Runway Palette – a limited-edition of its silky-soft finish eyeshadow, the colours of which are inspired by the AW15 fashion collection of the brand. This season, it’s all military green and camouflage, which are encapsulated most elegantly in three shades, including a nude to highlight the eyes, and khaki and black for the perfect smokey look. Limited Edition AW15 Runway Palette, £45, Burberry (burberry.com)

Beauty news You time

Age of grace

We love it when brands celebrate a good cause and were thrilled to hear about Floris’s limited-edition Rose Geranium Bath Essence in aid of Macmillan. Packaged in a sleeve designed by Marta Spendowska, £35 of the £55 retail price will go towards the charity. As September is officially bath month, Floris has also rereleased its signature bath essence, a favourite of Marilyn Monroes. £55 for 50ml (florislondon.com)

When Linda Pilkington, founder and creator of Ormonde Jayne Perfumery, launches a new scent, there is always an air of excitement on the ground floor of Selfridges. This month, it’s for Vanille d’Iris – a new delicate and sensual perfume made with opulent ingredients such as Orris butter and Tahitian vanilla buds. The scent evokes the same olfactory experience of breathing in a freshly scraped vanilla bud, and with top notes of coriander seed, Sicilian bergamot and carrot seed, it is contemporary and fresh, and guaranteed to turn heads in wonder as you walk on by. Vanille d’Iris, £140 for 120ml, Ormonde Jayne, Selfridges Exchange Square (ormondejayne.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

Sugar and spice TREATMENT OF THE MONTH THE CREME DE LA MER TREATMENT MASSAGE TOOL WORDS: LOUISA CASTLE

It is time to pamper yourself, and we have the perfect product to instantly lift your mood – Lilou et Loïc’s selection of rich body butters. Not only will it deeply hydrate your skin, but the scent will take you on a delightful olfactory journey of fruits and spices. We especially love the floral spice body butter as lilies, freesias and sweet peas mingle with fresh scents of figs, rhubarb and moss, which gently lingers on your newly silky skin. Floral spice body butter, £58, Lilou et Loïc (lilouetloic.com)

We featured this odd looking tool last month, so we thought we’d find out what it was all about. Designed to be used in conjunction with your favourite Crème de la Mer serum, the Treatment Massage Tool accompanied by a customised step-by-step massage technique is meant to improve radiance and increase microcirculation when incorporated into your daily routine. We used with several drops of the Lifting Contour Serum and followed the New Dimension techniques, aimed at bringing visible depth and dimension to skin. Cool to touch, the contoured edge maximises the application of your serum and the rounded end applies pressure to the acupressure points. It does come complete with detailed drawings which are easy to follow but you soon get into a habit. Massaging the jaw line and cheekbones with the contoured edge and then using the rounded edge on the inner brow and top lip. Just a few extra minutes of me-time. After four weeks of use, skin felt firmer and more radiant, but we’d have to do another test to tell you whether it was the serum or the tool! What we can say is that it was ten to fifteen minutes (which sounds a lot but, to coin a well known advertiser, believe me you’re worth it) of indulgence and calmness before the day begins, which you snatch with both hands whenever you can. Crème de la Mer Lifting Contour Serum, £240 (30ml) and Massage Tool, £50 (cremedelamer.com)

Forever young A youthful complexion is often considered the holy grail of skincare. And innovative beauty brand Su-Man has taken the industry by storm with its rejuvenating facials and celebrity following. Using the antioxidant ingredients of dragon’s blood extract and rosehip seed oil, Su-Man’s new capsule collection of products will leave your skin feeling soft and replenished. From a selection, Su-Man, available at Fortnum & Mason (fortnumandmason.com)

Urban cowgirl Gelish’s new autumn/winter colours have just hit the salon and we’re busy trying them out. From rustic nude, cheekily called Tan my Hide, to refined plum (perfect for pumps or cowboy boots) or sparkling Seal the Deal, we’ll be testing out our inner urban cowgirl this season. Gelish available at Jane Osborne Beauty, Alderley Edge (0779 809 7246; wahanda.com) 83

The family jewels A well-respected, family-run jeweller since 1937, Steven Stone in Hale specialises in retailing and manufacturing high-quality diamond and gem set jewellery at competitive prices

ehind the attractive viewing window into the showroom sit a myriad of rooms, each with a highly skilled craftsmen contributing to the overall delivery. Here we talk to some of the team:

Zack Stone is the son of Steven Stone and the grandson of Al Stone. For as long as Zack can remember, he has been surrounded by things that sparkle! In his teens he created a diamond trading website, before joining the business full time at 18. Zack is passionate about diamonds and attended the GIA London campus to study diamond grading. (GIA being a highly respected qualification behind the quality of diamonds). Aside from jewellery, Zack loves technology and can always be found with the latest gadget. Together with his father Steven, Zack oversees the business.

Emma Dobson is the general manager. As a young girl Emma would collect minerals and crystals, researching their properties and characteristics. While studying at university, she made her move into retail jewellery and never looked back. After graduation she worked as a jeweller on cruise lines, travelling the world and educating passengers on fine gems. After meeting her husband, Emma made her move back to the UK, working for four years with Tiffany & Co in London. Last year she moved north and joined Steven Stone, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience with her. Tom Wallace is the head goldsmith. He entered the jewellery trade straight from high school, beginning with an intensive seven-year apprenticeship spanning all aspects of jewellery-making and maintenance. Tom has now been a

jeweller for 44 years, bringing an impressive wealth of knowledge and experience to the company. His high standards and expertise are reflected in the superior finish of every Steven Stone piece. In his spare time, Tom keeps an allotment (with mixed results!) and is an avid football fan. Joe Light is the digital marketing manager, a role that encompasses photography and design. Joe studied photography at Liverpool John Moores where he gained a first class degree. He now is often asked to address university students nationwide regarding technical jewellery photography. The images created by Joe are an essential part of the Steven Stone business. As they say, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A picture paints a thousand words.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Outside the business, Joe enjoys playing the piano, architecture, the arts and a spot of mountain biking. (stevenstone.co.uk)

Steven stone â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so much more than a high street retailer 84

LONDON BOUTIQUE NOW OPEN 24 ST CHRISTOPHER’S PLACE, MARYLEBONE, W1U 1NS HALE - LONDON - PALM BEACH

WWW.STEVENSTONE.CO.UK TEL: 0161 233 9977 10.42ct Rubellite & Diamond Pendant in 18ct Rose Gold £9,895 8.45ct Rubellite & Diamond Drop Earrings in 18ct Rose Gold £6,950

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

The Countess & the Lady Lady Tamara van Cutsem on the charity closest to her heart

ady Tamara van Cutsem became Patron of the Babygrow Appeal in 2013, following the launch at Eaton Park. The aim of the appeal is to focus on the fundraising of £3m to build a new neonatal unit at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Westminster, Lady Tamara gave birth to her second son, Louis Hugh Lupus, at the Countess of Chester Hospital in May 2012, providing a younger brother and playmate for Jake Louis Hannibal. Although she did not need to use the services of the neonatal unit, Lady Tamara is well aware of the excellent work that takes place in the unit, which provides special care for around 500 babies every year. “I am delighted to support this appeal, and having experienced first hand the professionalism, commitment and compassion of the Maternity Services medical team at the Countess, I have no doubt that the team caring for premature and very sick babies in the neonatal unit have the same dedication that I witnessed. “As a mother I know that all you wish for is a healthy baby, and it must be extremely stressful when your baby is born and needs to go into the special care unit, where they could be very ill and need intensive care or ventilators to help them breathe. I am blessed to have two healthy boys and hopefully another healthy baby on the way.” The appeal, which is the largest fundraising project ever undertaken by the hospital’s charity, has now reached £1.5m of its £3m target to build a new neonatal unit.

LADY TAMARA (LEFT ) WITH THE COUNTESS OF CHESTER TEAM

Some babies remain in the unit just a few hours, while others may stay weeks or months, or even a year. This can be a very anxious time for mum and dad, who are often spending a lot of time in the unit. Currently, the unit can’t provide them with the space and privacy they feel they should have. There is no separate room where siblings can be entertained or play freely, and no dedicated counselling room. The charity aims to provide all this, and much more, in a brand new, purposebuilt neonatal unit which will be more than double the size of the current unit. The new environment will then match the recognised excellent clinical standard. The appeal is looking for donors who wish to have the unit or rooms named after themselves or a company. (coch.fundraising/babygrow; janetratcliffe1@nhs.net)

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FIELDS OF GOLD T

wo of the most quintessentially British brands, Barbour and Land Rover, have combined forces to produce a new collection that pays homage to the heritage of country living. With clothing specifically tailored for ease of driving, and all country forays, this range is for those who want something luxurious for every occasion. By combining highquality fabrics and traditionally tailored garments with contemporary style and sophistication, the Barbour for Land Rover collection is sure to make waves as the weather becomes cooler. Barbour for Land Rover, available at Barbour and Land Rover (barbour.com; landrover.co.uk)

Motoring news words: Iain Warde

The full story The full spec of the fastest, most powerful, luxurious and exclusive SUV in the world has been announced and we’re quite excited. Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe, the Bentayga’s styling is pure Bentley. Sculptural with an elegant, timeless execution. From the four round LED headlamps and large matrix grille, to the distinctive power line and muscular haunches, the Bentley DNA is apparent throughout. An all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is at the heart of the mighty 12-cylinder unit, delivering 600bhp which provides a 0-60mph time of 4 seconds and a top speed of 187mph. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “The Bentayga is truly the Bentley of SUVs. It redefines luxury in the SUV sector, thanks to unparalleled attention to detail, go-anywhere ability and cutting-edge technology.” (bentley.com) 90

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

Revival An evocative line-up of Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupes headlined an outstanding opening day at the 2015 Goodwood Revival. It is believed to be the first time that all six original examples of Carroll Shelby’s creation have been brought together, including the prototype, plus veterans of races at Le Mans and Goodwood bringing back memories of the car’s World Sports Car Championship winning year, 1965. As ever, the off-track activity has evoked great memories of the immediate post-war period, and this year there has even been a diversion from the usual cars and planes: a fishing trawler commemorating the 60th anniversary of the fish finger in the UK. (facebook.com/goodwood.revival)

Sotheby Special Joining the headlining Colton Collection Ferraris at H&H Classics’ Duxford sale (14 October) is another car from one of the Grandes Marques, this time an Aston Martin, though certainly not one many would recognise. Named ‘The Sotheby Special’, the cutting-edge lines of the car were by Ogle Design, the Letchworth-based studio also responsible for the Raleigh Chopper bike, Reliant’s Scimitar GTE and the Bond Bug. The Sotheby Special was based on an Aston Martin DBS V8 chassis (DBSV8/10380/R), with outrageous 1970s glassfibre coachwork supported on a Reynolds 531 tubular steel frame and is expected to fetch over £100,000. (classic-auctions.com)

1902

was the first year a speeding fine was handed out – most cars could not reach over 45mph back then

Limited edition Just 250 limited-edition Abarth 595s have gone on sale in the UK in a choice of three colours, with additional features including colourcoded brake callipers with matching wheel centre caps; a carbon-effect Abarth decal set; 17-inch ‘Formula’ alloy wheels; dark-tinted rear quarter windows, and specific ‘Trofeo Edition’ badges. The range starts at £14,610 for the 1.4 T-Jet 140hp hatchback, rising to £23,190 OTR for the Competizione Convertible 180hp MTA (manual transmission automatic). (abarthcars.co.uk)

Top of the range Welcome to the Range Rover V8 Supercharged SVAutobiography, the most powerful Range Rover ever built Words: Jennifer Mason

very now and then, a car comes along that simultaneously celebrates the best things about being traditionally British while embracing the latest in technology. This season, it’s the new Range Rover SVAutobiography. Crammed full of British craftsmanship and design, it boasts a number of options sure to delight RR fans – car owners who like their luxury understated but ever-present, whether they’re cruising around the city or four-wheel-driving across the country estate. The SVAutobiography does both. With several engine options to suit all customers, combined with the traditional RR off-roading capabilities, this car has a Bruce Wayne/Batman dymanic; suave billionaire by day, acrobatic superhero by night – all the time aided and abetted by a host of clever gadgets. V8 Supercharged SVAutobiography, from £156,000, Range Rover (landrover.co.uk)

V8 power The SVAutobiography is the most powerful series-production Range Rover ever made, when specified with the V8 Supercharged engine. This all-aluminium, 5-litre engine produces 550PS and 680Nm torque – but leaves efficiency unaffected.

Hybrid performance In 2016, Range Rover will introduce the SDV6 Hybrid – a 3-litre, V6 diesel engine which integrates a 35kW electric motor for environmental sustainability.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

V6 power For the 2016 model, Range Rover will fit its most powerful V6 ever â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a supercharged 3-litre engine which produces 380PS and 460Nm torque and accelerates from 0-100km in 6.8 seconds. Despite the performance increases, efficiency remains impressive, with fuel economy of 26.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 248g/km.

Gadgets and gismos Technology in the SVAutobiography is at the cutting edge. A new Surround Camera System, hands-free Gesture Tailgate, Automatic Access Height and InControl connected-car technologies make for a versatile vehicle.

Get in gear A ZF eight-speed automatic transmission includes adaptive-shift logic that intelligently adjusts to driver behaviour.

Tailgate technology As well as a sliding loadspace floor for ease of use, the luggage compartment has an extra trick up its sleeve: Event Seating. The tailgate can be quickly transformed into two comfortable seats, hand-crafted from stitched Windsor leather.

Dream

machines The luxury SUV market has transformed over the past decade, and the bar has been firmly raised as Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Lamborghini launch their own top-tier interpretations. Richard Yarrow investigates

Bentley Bentayga, The New Pinnacle SUV

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

he perfect car for the countryside is obviously the 4x4, or Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) as it’s more commonly known today. All-wheel drive and chunky tyres for improved grip, raised ride height for better ground clearance, and a spacious cabin that’s as much about functionality as form – it’s the ideal solution for rural hobbies such as shooting or fishing. The issue for discerning drivers has always been a lack of luxury and performance options in the sector. For decades, brands such as Mitsubishi, Land Rover and Jeep have provided plenty of practicality, but precious little in the way of fine design, bespoke appointments and elegant sophistication. The Range Rover, the premium model from Land Rover, was for many years the only option, and continues to exploit the opportunity today with increasingly upmarket versions. More recent arrivals such as the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7 have eroded its domination, but there has never really been a super-luxury SUV. Until now, that is. And like London buses, you can wait ages for one and then several turn up together. Bentley and Rolls-Royce are working on their own interpretations of the genre, but the latest brand to get involved is Lamborghini. The new car will go on sale in 2018, based on the Urus concept, which was unveiled in 2012. It may even keep the same name. A statement from the Italian company says it will target customers in the US, China, the Middle East, Russia, Germany and the UK. But why does an outfit best known for its outrageous V10 two-seaters want to build an SUV at all? Ian Fletcher, principal analyst at IHS Automotive, explained: “It could bring in new customers, particularly those who find the dramatic styling of Lamborghini products appealing, but find its typical sports cars restrictive.” He added that SUVs seem to have universal

put into SUVs.” You might not know it, but Lamborghini does have SUV heritage, though the LM002 was a world away from what the new model will look like. On sale from 1986-93, it had more in common with the butch styling of a Hummer and was once dubbed the ‘Rambo Lambo’. The company thinks it can sell around 3,000 cars a year, which is exactly the same as what Bentley is predicting for its forthcoming SUV, the

top: Aston Martin DBX unveiling; below: Lamborghini Urus concept

desirability if they’re done in a way that’s sympathetic to the characteristics of the brand, as the pioneering Cayenne proved. They also spark interest from the super-wealthy in emerging markets – such as Brazil and India – where 4x4 powertrains have always been popular to counter the traditionally lower-quality roads. “The upper end of the luxury segment is relatively untouched, with the exception of the Mercedes G-Class and some special-edition Range Rovers,” says Fletcher. “Nevertheless, there appears to be great demand in this area, given the market for additional and costly modifications which some customers

“The company thinks it can sell around 3,000 cars a year, which is exactly the same as what Bentley is predicting” Bentayga. The unusual name comes from the Roque Bentayga, a peak in the Canary Islands. The car is described by the company as “introducing the brand’s renowned modern British luxury to limitless destinations, with an impressive combination of on and off-road performance”. As Bentley is part of the Volkswagen empire, the car will share a platform with the Cayenne and Q7, though the Crewe company’s reputation for luxury means the interior will bear no relation to its sibling. Only teaser images have been shown so far, though first pictures are expected in the next few weeks. Not to be outdone, earlier this year RollsRoyce confirmed it will launch an SUV. The company has promised a high-bodied car with an all-new aluminium architecture. The promotional line that comes with it is “Effortless... Everywhere”, with the idea that it is as much about the adventurous spirit

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

of Charles Rolls as it is about Sir Henry Royce’s dedication to engineering and innovation. The project, as yet unseen, is being developed under the codename Cullinan – after the world’s largest uncut diamond – though it’s unlikely that will be the badge on the boot. A showroom debut in 2018 has been pencilled in. Chassis development vehicles have been spotted on desert tests, with pictures of them powering up and down sand dunes – not typical Rolls-Royce behaviour. The car is based on a shortened version of the Phantom’s platform, a fact that hints at the vast size of the finished vehicle. It will feature a new all-wheel drive suspension system, aimed at delivering the brand’s signature ride quality both on and off the tarmac. With Lamborghini, Bentley and Roll-Royce all joining the SUV party in expectation of finding new customers, the rest of the supercar segment will likely follow suit. Aston Martin, with its history of motorsport success and association with James Bond, is about as far away from offroading as you can get. But even it is getting in on the act, pulling the covers off the DBX Concept at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. It’s a car which, according to the company, “reaches out to a more diverse global audience than ever before”. CEO Dr Andy Palmer says: “I asked my team to expand their thinking beyond conventions, to explore what the future of

luxury GT motoring would look like in years ahead, and the DBX Concept is the result.” He conceded it wasn’t a production-ready vehicle, but was “more than a thought-starter” for the company and its customers. Crucially, he added, “We will, in due course, be entering a car into the DBX space.” And if you thought Land Rover would be left behind as its rivals muscle in on its territory, think again. It has announced that the nextgeneration Discovery – traditionally the more functional off-roader in its range – will be given an upmarket makeover by the in-house Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) department. The standard-spec Discovery 5 will be launched next year, with the SVO car appearing 12-18 months later. Which just leaves Ferrari. Will it happen? “We have always confirmed we will never do an SUV, despite everyone keeping asking,” said a spokesman. That seems fairly definite, then…

below: Bentley; bottom: Aston Martin DBX Concept

Technology central words: Iain Warde

Crystal-clear viewing If you’re in the market for a new televsion, then chances are you’re after an Ultra HD TV. It’s the new buzzword in TV tech and it can deliver sharper, crisper, high-fidelity visuals than possible at a measly 1080p. Every manufacturer is now lining up to offer you a 4K TV. But where it was once almost a content-less gimmick, limited to show floor show reels, there are now more and more UHD movies and TV shows on offer. We take a look at the best TVs money can buy...

P a n a s o n ic T X - 6 5 C Z 9 5 2 B

USP: Massive 4K quality, OLED, THX, Curved £TBC (panasonic.com)

rand new into the stores in October the 65-inch Panasonic TX65CZ952B will feature a curved panel, 4K UHD (ultra high-definition) resolution, a specially-tuned version of the Japanese brand’s 4K Studio Master Processor, as well as THX certification.

3840 x 2160 Resolution (2160p), OLED Superb Motion Drive, Multiple format support. comes with 2 pairs of 3D Glasses

The competition

LG 65EC970V USP: 65” Curved 4K LED screen gives you a great-quality picture at a very good price. £4,999 (lg.com/uk) 98

Sony Bravia KD75X9405CBU USP: Sensational picture quality and equally sensational sound quality. £7,499 (sony.co.uk)

3 Panasonic Viera TX-50CX802B USP: Superbly detailed, natural pictures, exceptional colour rendition. £1,499 (panasonic.com/uk)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Technology

App: Fit Star Yoga FitStar teams up with yoga guru and Strala Yoga founder Tara Stiles to bring you FitStar Yoga, a personalised yoga training app that streams a wealth of yoga workouts designed to help you lose weight and increase flexibility. £Free with paid subscription iOS (fitstar.com)

An average of £440 worth of transactions take place on ebay every second

Game: Fallout 4 Bethesda Game Studios, the awardwinning creators of Fallout 3 and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, welcome you to the world of Fallout 4 – their most ambitious game ever, and the next generation of open-world gaming. As the sole survivor of Vault 111, you enter a world destroyed by nuclear war. Every second is a fight for survival, and every choice is yours. Only you can rebuild and determine the fate of the Wasteland. Welcome home. £42.99 (fallout4.com)

ON HOME HUB Google has now revealed a new smart home hub in the form of the OnHub, a £130 cylindrical router that promises a “new way to Wi-Fi”. Users can control it via an app, and Google has promised frequent software updates for the device. The hub will initially be available in the US and Canada, but we expect it to launch in the UK, Europe, and other territories as well very soon – we’re predicting a Christmas launch here. Smart home communications are a bit hit and miss at the moment, so

Google appears to be future-proofing the OnHub with a ton of protocol support. The device supports 2.4 and 5GHz Wi-Fi with some pretty powerful specs, including a dual-core, 1.4GHz Qualcomm Atheros IPQ8064. Surprisingly, there’s also a speaker. The big downside is the port selection. There’s a single USB 3.0 port, one Ethernet port for your modem, one Ethernet port for a computer, and that’s it. All other devices need to connect wirelessly. £130 (on.google.com/hub) 99

Travel news

Full house Looking for somewhere to host a large-scale family get-together this festive season? Or perhaps you’d love to get all your closest friends under the same roof for a birthday or weekend away? Well look no further, for Crag Hall – a stunning Georgian country house retreat in Wildboarclough, the Peak District – is the perfect solution, with 12 bedrooms (sleeping up to 21 guests), the services of its own dedicated housekeeper, and even the option to have a chef cook throughout your stay, or for a special evening of fine dining. Surrounded by beautiful wilderness and full of glorious period features, what better excuse to get your nearest and dearest together this winter? From £3,375 for a three-night weekend stay, introductory offer, to be booked by end of 16 January (craghall.co.uk)

A regal affair With a thoroughly distinguished heritage dating back to 1528, the Castle Hotel in Windsor is perfect for a weekend break of culture, history and noble opulence. Close to Windsor Castle, Windsor Guildhall, Eton College, Windsor Great Park and Ascot Racecourse, the hotel opened just last month and has 108 rooms and five very special suites (each named after a royal warrant holder), each filled with carefully crafted details designed to provide guests with a glimpse back over the building’s 500 years of history – and, of course, the truly sumptuous level of comfort at which the MGallery brand so excels. A perfect excuse to spend your days wandering Windsor’s quaint cobbled lanes and indulging in an afternoon tea or two. (mgallery.com) 100

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

S ta r s t r u c k

Lone ranger If you fancy yourself as the next Steve Irwin, head to the Seychelles where Raffles Praslin has just launched a Ranger for a Day programme. In partnership with the Seychelles National Parks Authority, the hotel hopes to promote environmental well-being through a unique tour of the neighbouring island, Curieuse, home to a nature reserve usually off-limits to visitors. Expect to come face-to-face with giant tortoises, explore birds’ nests and learn about lemon shark tagging, all the while taking in the breathtaking setting, complete with deserted sands and crystal clear ocean. Ranger for a Day, from £125 per person (raffles.com/praslin)

Long haul vs short haul

Short haul Northern delights

Those wanting to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights without the obligatory campfire excursion should book a trip to ION Hotel. Its Northern Lights bar offers the chance to witness the natural wonder through floor-to-ceiling glass windows, glass of wine in hand. During the day discover Reykjavik, less than an hour’s drive from the hotel, or explore the nearby Thingvellir National Park, home to the largest lake in Iceland. From £184 a night (ioniceland.is)

Long haul Jeep and cheerful

The suite life This summer, the Grand Hotel de Bordeaux & Spa’s Wine Concierge Service added three brand new experiences to its Wine Journey Series. Our current favourite, the Dolce Vita on the Garonne River service, allows guests to visit some of the region’s most prestigious châteaux and finest wineries, while the hotel offers guests a variety of unique experiences as part of the Wine Concierge Service’s dedicated programme of activities – including a private ride in a Century Sea Maid boat to Lamarque in the Médoc region, where guests can enjoy exclusive access to two châteaux, amoung which is Château de Lamarque. A must-do for all fans of the region and its glorious tipples. (ghbordeaux.com)

Swot up on your astronomical know-how at The Little Nell in Aspen, where an adventure concierge and an astronomy expert are on hand to sweep you off on a stargazing jeep tour. Find out about the latest goings-on up above with an opportunity to see shooting stars, meteor showers and constellations. Back at the hotel, spare yourself neck cramp by catching up on 40 winks in the recently refurbished rooms, conceived by fashion designer Holly Fulton. £282 a night (thelittlenell.com)

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The world of Georgian Wine Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the freak floods and marauding zoo animals from earlier this year fool you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Joey Leskin discovers the country of Georgia is back to its best, and in the midst of a blossoming autumnal tourism scene

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

erched on the east coast of the Black Sea, tucked between Russia and Turkey, the Caucasus nation offers a great variety of attractions, and with a peaceful, forwardlooking populace, there has never been a better time to visit. The undoubted highlight is the wine, and we took a jaunt through the best of what Georgia has to offer in this department. It is safe to say we emerged a little unsteadily. A bit of history is important to understand quite why this may be the first time you have ever read about the Georgian wine phenomenon. The glorious tipple completely and entirely failed to hit the British mainstream simply because for decades, trade was so lucrative with Russia that there was no need for wine to be exported anywhere else further away. Throughout the Soviet era, Georgia functioned rather industriously as the home of USSR wine production, and since 1990 resumed trade with Russia. However, the recent trade embargoes on Russia by the international community have now necessitated the outward looking from the Soviet bloc by Georgian wine producers, and Vladimir Putin’s loss is truly our gain. Dr Giorgi Nanobashvili, founder and owner of Colour Tour Georgia, suggests that not only have trade embargoes served to initiate the Georgian wine trade with the rest of the world, but also inadvertently increased the quality of Georgian wine. “I believe that Russians simply don’t have the refined taste for wine that traditional wine-

producing nations do. Georgian producers could previously therefore worry less about the quality, and focus on the quantity. But no more.” The Georgians always knew how to make the best wine – they were just practical about their customers. “It’s basic supply and demand,” he tells us. Industrial and artisanal wine producers abound throughout the country, and when the price is just £2 or £3 for a bespoke, high-end bottle of wine, the appeal is obvious. In Tbilisi, G.Vino wine bar in the heart of the old town is the best bet for wine tasting with well-informed local experts and sommeliers – all fluent in English, not something that should be expected at every turn in Georgia. G.Vino sources its wine from only small-scale, independent wineries, and be sure to indulge in their Georgian cheese platter to help soak it up. The next stop is Sighnaghi Town. Situated about an hour and a half’s drive eastwards from Tbilisi, this enchanting locale has ‘next big thing’ written all over it. Coming across like a quintessential European city of culture with its winding lanes, colonial-style architecture and sun-drenched piazzas, the narrative to Sighnaghi is rather unusual. Home to many wealthy, wine-loving hedonistic Russians during the Soviet era, Sighnaghi experienced a mass exodus after the fall of the Soviet Union, leaving it largely in a state of disrepair. Georgia experienced a revolution in 2003 and in 2004, the post-revolution Georgian government,

THIS PAGE (ABOVE): wine pots, below: Numisi Clay Pots opposite page: Sighnaghi, georgia

103

realising the potential of a town with the bare bones of luxury, an abundance of ready-made infrastructure and an almost perfect climate, poured money into its regeneration. Consultations with art historians and an entirely state-funded budget saw a successful resurrection by 2008 and provides today’s aesthetically pleasing result: a town designed purposely to look old, as if perfectly preserved from the 18th and 19th centuries, but that was really mostly constructed in the past decade on the remains of what once was. The town appears familiar to anyone who has frequented rustic, sun-drenched Mediterranean localities, but one thing does set Sighnaghi apart from its many similar cousins throughout Europe: you guessed it, the wine. The town is right in the centre of Georgia’s best grape-growing region, and the potential for wine production in Sighnaghi is unparalleled throughout the entire Caucasus region. The location of the high-profile ‘Pheasant’s Tears’ winery in the heart of the town lends credence to its potential, and with tours of the winery available, get there before the prices go up. For those who want to get behind the scenes and see exactly how wine is made, Georgian style, do not miss the Numisi ‘Wine Farm’. Numisi

(named rather charmingly after the first halves of the names of the couple who own it, Nunu and Misha) is a family business that utilises a 300-yearold corn barn, a 16th-century wine cellar, and dozens of huge clay pots (the largest of which holds 5000 litres) to create wine. It is done the way Georgians did it before industrial technology, utilising a “satsnakheli”, an ancient wine press – with stunning results. The process is multi-faceted, but the unquestionable highlight for the casual visitor is a wine-pressing masterclass, offered seasonally from September to December. Alongside the year-round tours of the complex and copious wine tasting, the pressing process is taught thoroughly, with an appealing aspect of audience participation: prior to the skin separation process and fermentation, the grapes are mashed entirely by foot, and attendees are fully encouraged to get involved – a great way to really get your hands (or rather, your feet) dirty. Heading back to Tbilisi, an adventure into the crowded council estate-laden fringe awaits. Hidden among the sprawling concrete jungle of the residential neighbourhoods is an unassuming parking garage which leads into a small apartment, but what awaits is more than unexpected: this is

“The potential for wine production in Sighnaghi is unparalleled throughout the entire Caucasus region”

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below (from left to right): Numisi Clay Pots; typical georgian wine and cuisine; rkatsiteli wine from vineyard tsarapi; Numisi Cellar

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

the home of Gravis, the wine-producing partnership that took both silver and bronze in the International Wine Awards at the 2015 Georgia Wine Expo. The partners are old friends and work day jobs as builders, having produced wine for family and friends since 2009. Their wine is made in the garage and within the apartment, all in the aforementioned traditional clay pots, and they have hit upon a winning formula. With only three tonnes of nine different vintages each being bottled per year, the wine is of the highest quality and rarity. In the wake of their success, they have launched tasting experiences – an unrivalled off-the-beaten-track experience that, just like a microcosm of a trip to the entire country, will leave both your thirst and your sense of adventure quenched. Alongside wine will naturally come food, and with Georgia’s main industry being agriculture, the gastronomic spoils abound in variety and quality, all at very affordable prices. Georgians practically force-feed visitors khachapuri at every establishment, a delicious baked pizza made from thick, soft dough and layered with a mixture of egg and local cheese. There is tjamsandali, a mixed vegetable broth that seems like it probably birthed

the word ‘hearty’, and lobio, a delicious bean stew served in a clay pot for about £1. This is all in addition to rich Georgian cheeses to go with your wine. Lastly, there are khinkali; Georgian dumplings that tread the perfect middle ground between the Asian and European varieties, whilst claiming to be superior to both – you be the judge. Finally, it is worth mentioning that the Georgians are happy, modest people who are proud to show off their unique culture to foreign visitors and take great pride in showcasing all aspects of their customs and traditions. The tumultuous post-Soviet transitional period between 1990 and 2003 ended in the Rose Revolution that resulted in several years of progression until the war with Russia in 2008; since then, the Georgians have been weary of conflict and profess to want peace more than anything else. This has cultivated a stable, peaceful populace – indeed, walking around at night in Tbilisi is deemed very safe. Shying away from tourist traps or inflated prices, the ambience created by the Georgian people is one of the highlights of a trip there – genuine, and simply happy to have you in their impressive country. (hoteloldtbilisi.ge; colourtourgeorgia.com)

“When the price is just £2 or £3 for a bespoke, high-end bottle of wine, the appeal is obvious”

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Inside the world’s most EXPENSIVE RESTAURANT Five years ago, Ibiza Marina reduced its moorings from 536 to 379. It heralded the arrival of the superyachts and an influx of the super-rich. The year after, Ushuaïa introduced a new level of luxury. Nikki Beach followed, as did celebrity hotspots Lío and Cipriani. Nothing, though, compares to the island’s latest resident as Richard Brown discovers

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he world’s most expensive restaurant isn’t a restaurant. It’s a theatre production – one that begins in a store cupboard and ends in an art lesson. You’re dangled from a helicopter, dropped from a plane and transported from the ocean to the Amazon in the time it takes to demolish 20 dishes, each of which has been designed to have you reaching for your camera phone. It’s a three-hour round trip. At £1,200 per person, Sublimotion is also the sort of enterprise that symbolises Ibiza’s transition from hippie hangout to all-singing VIP retreat. Ten years ago, the concept would have been implausible on an island famed for its dance temples but notoriously lacking in the gastronomic department. The fact that Ibiza can now sustain Sublimotion is testament to the island’s transition in the past few years, a commercial reimaging that upgraded it from family-friendly resort to luxury playground. It’s a move spearheaded by the Matutes family, owners of the Palladium Group, which kickstarted it all with the 2011 launch of daytime super-clubcome-five-star-hotel Ushuaïa. Hardly newcomers to the island – Palladium head Abel Matutes Snr is a former mayor and past treasurer of Ibiza – the group, having achieved success through an empire of three-star hotels during the 1970s and ’80s, has made a conscious decision to target the luxury market under now managing director Abel Matutes Jnr. Two years after the Fiesta Club became Ushuaïa, the adjacent three-star Hotel Playa d’en Bossa became Ushuaïa Tower. Last year, the old Don Toni Hotel was upgraded to the Hard Rock Hotel, while this year, the former Fiesta Club Palm Beach morphed into the luxury Grand Palladium White Island Resort and Spa. Altogether, the Palladium Group now operates more than 1,500 rooms along Playa d’en Bossa, single-handedly changing the face of Ibiza’s longest stretch of sandy coastline in less than five years. An upgrade to the hotels has meant an advancement in the restaurants they house. Ushuaïa is home to the spectacular sushi outing Minami; Montauk in Ushuaïa Tower serves up some of the island’s best steak; while on the sand, the Ushuaïa Beach Club offers amazing fish, and

dinner is served on levitating plates

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the new-for-2015 Sir Rocco Beach Club provides excellent Italian. As of last year, though, the pièce de résistance in Palladium’s culinary portfolio has been Sublimotion. So, what’s it like to visit? The evening begins at the Hard Rock Hotel from where, after cocktails and a ‘molecular’ olive (extra squishy with the skin removed), a fleet of Sublimotion-branded Range Rovers take you the 200 metres from the hotel’s foyer to the restaurant’s entrance – an unremarkable door on the side of what looks like a maintenance unit. Inside, you’re given an edible invitation that will get you from a small reception area to an even smaller elevator. After a simulated ascent – to the sound of the Ramones’ Hey Ho, Let’s Go! – you’re welcomed into Sublimotion’s single, 12-seater

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dining room. Your name is emblazoned on the wall behind your seat. Forming the confines of the windowless room is a 360-degree digital screen that, amongst other things, allows you to swim with sharks, take in Tuscany, visit a fairground, ride the Orient Express and pretend you’re a DJ. The dinner itself, which comprises everything from seafood and sushi to hotdogs and candyfloss, is served by a team of more than 20 waiters and chefs. Each dish is heavily deconstructed, coming as it does from a man described as the Spanish Heston Blumenthal: the elBulli-trained, two Michelin star rated Paco Roncero. It’s all washed down by copious amounts of LaurentPerrier and plenty of plonk. Tabletop quirks include talking placemats, levitating plates, dishes served from floating balloons and a dessert that’s painted onto your plate. Perhaps the most mind-blowing moment is when you look at a dish through a pair of goggles and have its ingredients, nutritional value and a video of it being prepared pop into your peripheral vision – Terminator-style. After dinner is done, you’re invited to a private, outdoor terrace, where you can discuss your evening with your fellow dinners and enjoy further cocktails. It rounds off what can be a very group-orientated experience, depending

ABOVE: the restaurant’s 3600 screen features more than 7,000,000 pixels; dinner is served on levitating plates; and talking placemats; Ushuaïa Tower LEFT: Sublimotion’s digital table transforms with every course

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Can Tehani

on the friendliness of your comrades – ours were an international collective of Dutch, Japanese, Spanish, Brazilian and British. So, is Sublimotion worth the dosh? You certainly won’t find anything like it anywhere else. It’s fantastical and surreal. The performance element feels a little rusty, the pre-dinner lift routine a little bit budget, and the whole thing somewhat overly choreographed. But these are trivialities. It is not pretentious. The augmented and virtual reality sections are a look into the future, and the molecular-level treatment of food is astonishing, if not delicious. There’s plenty of potential too. The set-up changes each year, meaning that no two visits will ever be the same. More could be made of guest’s other senses – why not overload our smell and change the temperature of the room with every course. Introduce music, ramp up the theatrics. At one point, we were tricked into thinking we’d consumed a magic mushroom – now, in a room that changes every time you blink, that would be quite the trip.

Arrive in style Avoid the hassle of check-in, bag-check and security by flying by private jet. Arrive at the airport just 15 minutes before takeoff, take advantage of a flexible luggage allowance and pass swiftly through security the other end. Jet Partner specialises in chartering ‘empty-leg’ flights – when a private jet is flying empty as it returns home or is en route to pick up a passenger – and can offer typical discounts of 40 per cent less than if an aircraft had been specifically chartered. Return flights to Ibiza are priced at £1,715 per person and jets are able to accommodate you and six other fliers. Picking your fellow hell-raisers will be the hardest part. (jetpartner.net)

Can Tehani

Where to stay Ushuaïa Beach Hotel & Tower When Ushuaïa Beach Hotel opened in 2011, it revolutionised the way people partied in Ibiza, its poolside stage regularly graced by superstar DJs like David Guetta, Avicii and Armin van Buuren. Two years later, Ushuaïa Tower opened to add an extra level of luxury, providing a more intimate and laid back sibling to its beat-producing nextdoor neighbour. Inside, shiny rooms with enormous flat-screen TVs, Jacuzzis and state-of-theart sound systems are designed to provide the VIP experience. Standard double rooms in Ushuaïa Beach Hotel are a little pokey, so if you don’t mind dropping the dough, stay in a suite in the Tower instead – for the mirrored ceilings alone. Double rooms at Ushuaïa Beach Hotel from £108 (ushuaiabeachhotel.com)

Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa The Palladium Group expanded its vast Playa d’en Bossa portfolio this year by opening the Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa. It joins sister properties Ushuaïa Beach, Ushuaïa Tower and Hard Rock Hotel on Ibiza’s largest stretch of sandy coastline. Whereas the other hotels are geared towards party goers, the White Island resort has families in mind. It’s part of the island’s largest resort, so expect a plethora of pools, restaurants

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and sports facilities, as well as a daily programme of activities for the kids. Standard rooms from £183 per night based on two people sharing/all-inclusive basis (palladiumhotelgroup.com)

Ibiza’s Best Beach Bars

Can Tehani Another bolthole set away from the club-land chaos is Can Tehani. The hillside property is surrounded by lush greenery and offers quick access to the beaches in the south (Blue Marlin in Cala Jondal is just a 10-minute drive away). More than 35,000sq metres of garden are home to olive trees, mimosas, lavenders and a fountain surrounded by orange trees. Inside, design-lovers will adore eight stylish and unique bedrooms, each kitted out with vintage ’50s and ’60s furniture and artwork. It feels like somewhere Stevie Nicks and Blondie might have stayed. Today, it’s owned by the son of the King of Vietnam. Prices for exclusive hire start from approx £16,000 per week (ariellasvillas.com)

Agroturismo Sa Talaia Completely at odds with the mentality of Ushuaïa, Agroturismo Sa Talaia is a former private manor house turned rural boutique hotel. Nestled on a hilltop above San Antonio, and accessed via a gravel path, the property is located in pine forest and has just 12 rooms. Lush gardens and beautiful landscapes complement a picturesque pool area that has a heated Jacuzzi and is surrounded by Balinese beds. The Cheshire Magazine rested its head here and found complete solace amongst the sound of birdsong and the smell of pine. Staff feel like friends and, as an added bonus, you get a free rental car for your stay. Can’t say fairer than that. Double room from £245 per night (satalaiaibiza.com)

Amante There’s a reason that Amante scores top marks on nearly all of its reviews on TripAdvisor. It offers some of the finest food and most idyllic views on the island, or on any island for that matter. If you’re going in the evening, reserve a table by the window. If you’re going by day, be sure to book a beach bed. (amanteibiza.com)

Experimental Beach Experimental Beach became the first beach bar from the group behind London’s Experimental Cocktail Club when it opened in the Las Salinas national reserve in 2013. Revisit hippy and hedonistic 1960’s Ibiza through a bohemian atmosphere in a place that was designed around ‘luxury, peace and pleasure’. (eccbeach.com)

Beach House Described as El Chiringuito’s naughty little sister, Beach House is an art-clad, Italian restaurant that’s a five-minute, sandy walk from Hard Rock Hotel. Go for a late lunch and stay until early evening when this chic, straw-roofed shack welcomes a host of respected DJs. (beachouseibiza.com)

El Chiringuito It’s fitting that you’ll find El Chiringuito on Europe’s second ever nudist beach, sitting, as it does, so naturally within its salt plain and sand dune environment. The food is as fresh as you can imagine and the views just as striking. Go for Eggs Benedict. (elchiringuitoibiza.com)

Agroturismo Sa Talaia

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El Chiringuito

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Where to Eat Montauk Richard Turner – of Pitt Cue Co. and Hawksmoor’s fame – branched out of London to open Ibiza’s first premium steakhouse in 2013. It’s been dedicated to serving prime-aged cuts of meat from Spain’s finest producers ever since. Before The Cheshire Magazine devoured a superb rib-eye steak, it consumed the best Caesar salad of its life. If it’s still on the menu, get it. (montauksteakhouse.com)

Estado Puro If your budget doesn’t stretch to the £1,200 it will cost you to eat at Sublimotion, sample the work of the man behind the concept at the more affordable Estado Puro. The experimental eatery by double Michelin star chef Paco Roncero serves traditional tapas with a modern twist. Dishes include 21st-century Spanish tortilla served in a glass and cardamom and yoghurt risotto. (estadopuroibiza.com)

BamBuddha The temple to Mediterranean-Asian fusion that is BamBuddha has won a bounty of awards since it opened at the turn of the millennium. This season, visit on a Friday for ‘Bamboozled at BamBuddha’,

when local party legends Mitch Wilson and DJ Samir join forces with fellow hedonists, and BamBuddha owners Jonjon and John Moon. Expect sensual and spiritual vibes. (bambuddha.com)

Cipriani NYC’s Cipriani brought Italian bling to Ibiza Marina when it opened in 2012. Set over two floors in the east wing of the Ibiza Gran Hotel, the restaurant offers stunning views of the harbour and is one of the most elegantly appointed restaurants on the island. It’s also where Orlando Bloom attempted to knockout Justin Beiber last year, in front of a celebrity-packed crowd that also included Leonardo DiCaprio. Shame he failed. (cipriani.com)

Lìo Talk to anyone who’s ever visited the Pacha-owned, cabaret-come-restaurant-come-nightclub and they’ll all say the same thing – if you’re going to Ibiza, you must make reservations at Lío. Singing waiters break into song from early evening, but it’s after 10pm that things really kick off, with cabaret performances giving way to DJs and lightshows. (lioibiza.com)

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Weekend away …The Midland Hotel, Manchester WORDS: GEMMA KNIGHT

or many years now, The Midland has been Manchester’s foremost shining beacon of heritage luxury, an austere Grade II-listed red-brick and granite building which proudly occupies the entire block beside Manchester’s old Central Railway terminal (now the Central Convention Centre). But now, of course, this fabulous northern grande dame packs more of a punch in the luxury department than ever, thanks to the launch of its brand new subterranean spa. Opened officially in June, The Spa at The Midland is perfectly in keeping with the ethos of opulence and attention to detail which has long been the hotel’s trademark – and, though it’s still finding its feet, the offering is already impressive. We take the lift down one floor from the archetypically marble-clad lobby and, as our eyes adjust to the soothing low lighting, we’re swooped up by two friendly therapists. Seated on plush velvet sofas, we’re brought headphones so that we can each choose the music which will play during our respective treatments, then – since we’re early – we’re given a quick tour and left to enjoy the spa. As with many an underground spa, this one is a cosy labyrinth, with a beautiful cave-like pool and thermal area which includes salt-infused aromatherapy steam room, swan neck fountain experience, relaxation pool, Caribbean Storm and

Arctic rain showers, and an Alder wood sauna with Himalayan salt block wall. Already, this spa was going to take some beating, but then we discover the relaxation room, complete with hanging (and gently spinning) teepees in which we could happily have spent the rest of the weekend, and impressed becomes an understatement. A full range of face and body treatments from luxury spa brand ESPA is also on offer, and theirs was certainly one of the most comprehensive full body massages I’ve experienced (but from ESPA, what else?). There’s also a sweet spa café where you can indulge in afternoon tea and Prosecco posttreatment should you so wish (although if you’re restricted to a single meal at The Midland, it’d be a crime not to visit one of Simon Rogan’s two resident restaurants instead – the pinnacle of which might just be the Cumbrian rib steak with truffle pudding at Mr Cooper’s House and Garden). The rest of the hotel is slickly run, with endearingly warm staff and beautiful suites which sit comfortably in league with those of heritage luxury institutions the world over, but the spa really does add another dimension which The Midland was previously, and conspicuously, lacking. Try as I might to think what’s left for this cosmopolitan gem to improve, I’m left suspecting they needn’t change a thing. (thespaatthemidland.co.uk)

‘This fabulous northern grande dame packs more of a punch in the luxury department than ever’

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o t e m o Welc erful d n o w our . . . d l r o w

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Hand cooked crisps The Day Sweet and Sour The Amazing Adventures Became Friends of Salt and Vinegar

Hand picked popcor n

When the Chilli got Sweet

Cornelius Popperley’s Sour Cream and Chive Popcorn

How Chicken Soup Saved The Day

Cousin Maisie’s Fennel and Lemon Popcorn

When Hickory got BBQ’d

The Secret Of Mr Salt

The Story of When the Cheese Met the Onion

When Bombay

Ambrose Popperley’s Wasabi Popcorn

Aunty Winifred’s Sweet and Salty Popcorn

Got Spicy

Captain Theodore’s Lime and Sea Salt Popcorn

Welcome to Ten Acre! If you haven’t been before, then you are about to discover a wonderful new world - a place full of flavour, warmth and plenty of fun! Ten Acre are the innovative, quirky and award winning creators of premium Hand Cooked Crisps and Hand Picked Popcorn. More than just crisps and popcorn - these are snacks with a difference. Fabulously flavoured crisps and tantalisingly tasty popcorn which are Gluten, Dairy and MSG free – as well as Vegan and Vegetarian approved.

Find us in fine food shops, delis, cafes and bars. tenacresnacks.com

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Welcome to wonderful 30/09/2015 11:50

Family | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Remember, remember What do you remember from school? Those ingrained sayings that you use in everyday life without really knowing it... Well a recent survey from Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has discovered the top 30 things we are most likely to remember from school – what you thought was uninteresting and useless at the time is completely the opposite in later life. While the top ten is below, other nuggets include: three in ten UK adults use ‘Never Eat Shredded Wheat’ to remember their direction of travel – guilty; Richard of York Gave Battle in Vain is the most popular way to remember the colours of the rainbow; and E=MC2 is the most commonly used piece of information between parent and child, followed by The Lord’s Prayer. Not to mention facts about ancient Egyptians pulling brains through the nose when preparing a mummy, the Latin verb to love and never to walk across the field during javelin practice! (ripleys.com)

The classroom Ninjago Lego fans, friends and families descended upon Legoland Discovery Centre to celebrate the launch of Lego Ninjago Airjitzu, taking part in the laser challenge and igniting imaginations building their own flyers and masks. (legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk; saledojo.com)

TOP 10 MOST REMEMBERED NUGGETS FROM SCHOOL 1. I before e except after c 2. Bunsen Burners 3. Joined up handwriting 4. The Lord’s Prayer 5. Hymns in assembly 6. The calendar poem (30 days has September) 7. Pi = 3.142 8. Playing the recorder 9. Working out the value of ‘x’ 10. Forward rolls 114

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AWARD WINNING

rn Hand Cook o c p o P d n a ed Crisps that tick all the boxes *

too. at tasting Gluten, Dair y, M SG Free, Vegetarian, Vegan and g re

Our quirky, premium Hand Cooked Crisps and Popcorn are celebrating after winning at the 2015 Great Taste Awards. We’re so joyous about what the judges had to say: Wasabi Popcorn “ Melt in the mouth and absolutely moreish”. Sweet & Salty Popcorn “light and fluffy”. BBQ Hand Cooked Crisps “warming flavour with a well-balanced heat”. Sweet & Sour Hand Cooked Crisps “certainly delivers”. Pick up a packet today and join the party.

Find us in fine food shops, delis, cafes and bars. tenacresnacks.com

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Welcome to wonderful 30/09/2015 11:51

Family | The CHESHIRE Magazine

IN THE HUB Withington Girls’ School (WGS) opened its doors at the start of the 2015/16 academic year with a brand new, purpose-built Junior School building, an impressive central ‘Hub’ and significantly enhanced Senior School facilities

irst impressions from delighted WGS Juniors included, ‘magnificent’, ‘amazing’, ‘welcoming and warm’ and ‘a spacious white day dream’. One Year 5 pupil particularly liked the colourful beanbags and seats. “It made me feel at home,” she said. And another commented: “When I walked into the new Junior building for the first time, I thought it was so shiny, new and modern. I also thought I was really lucky to have this great space to learn and to enjoy my education!” The new Withington Junior School, which currently houses around 125 girls, is configured over two storeys, with a spacious ground floor reception and quiet area, leading through to a large multi-purpose hall overlooking the playing fields beyond. There is a suite of eight classrooms, which include a library and a dedicated room for small group work. Investment in the WGS Junior School includes upgrading IT facilities, with a state-of-the-art computer mezzanine, along with additional iPads, smartboards in all classrooms and roaming ‘visualisers’ to enable more interactive learning. Head of Withington’s Junior School Mrs Kathryn Burrows said: “We are very fortunate to be able to

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provide such amazing facilities, creating a wonderful environment in which the girls will be able to thrive.” Another striking feature of Withington’s new development is the construction of a glazed ‘Hub’, wrapping around the School’s Arts Centre to create an area that will unify the Senior and Junior departments and provide an attractive space for exhibitions, displays, musical recitals and other extracurricular activities. Senior school facilities have also been enhanced. Withington’s aspiring scientists are benefiting from the refurbishment of the two chemistry laboratories, with the addition of a brand new third laboratory as well as a dedicated separate sixth form chemistry study area. Design technology has been relocated to bring DT, food technology and textiles together in one area. The former site of the Junior School now also houses newly refurbished senior school classrooms, a second drama studio and a conference room. Withington Headmistress Mrs Sue Marks commented: “It is wonderful that these important new buildings and refurbishment works have been completed in 2015, the 125th anniversary of the school’s foundation. It seems very fitting that we are not only celebrating the founders’ vision back in 1890, but also anticipating the needs of future generations of Withington pupils. The new facilities will transform the learning of our girls, providing for practical, hands-on activities and giving huge amounts of extra space for girls’ independent learning and social interaction alike.” (wgs.org)

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A festival of new f lavours i Pastrarm isps ﬂavour c

Cracked pper Black Pe s risp

ﬂavour c

New amazing ﬂavours are just about to arrive in Ten Acre – the land where popcorn grows on trees and hand cooked crisps pack an almighty crunch. Try the exciting Pastrami in the Rye and When the Pepper Crack’d Hand Cooked Crisps, and the fantastic Lucia Popperley’s Cappuccino Popcorn and Cousin Penelope’s Strawberry & Cream Popcorn.

Find us in fine food shops, delis, cafes and bars. tenacresnacks.com

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Welcome to wonderful 30/09/2015 11:51

Family | The CHESHIRE Magazine

A French Connection

he rain in Spain may fall mainly on the plain, but for the rest of Western Europe, sporadic nationwide downpours are likely all year round. Luckily for us, two of our favourite French brands have used the impending soggy season as an excuse to club together and design the ultimate waterproof coat. Petit Bateau has revamped K-Way’s signature Claude mac with a navy blue and white Breton striped print. The foldable coat is made from lightweight nylon and is ideal for families on the go, whatever country you’re in. Très bien! From £40 (petit-bateau.co.uk)

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“In the harsh winter of 1963 a terrible ﬂu swept through an icy Ten Acre, who could come to the residents rescue?”

“Expert Wedding planner Maisie Popperley ﬁnds herself on The Nile running Norman York’s wedding party. Will she save the day and the wedding as disaster hits their boat?”

Read these and all our o ther stories at www.tenacresnacks.c om/bookshop

CousCoinusiMais isie’s n Maie’s FennFen elne& l & LemoLem n Popco on Poprncorn

soup ckensoup w chien howhochick ed the savthe saved dayday

Ten Acre’s crisps and popcorn come in a range of unique names and every ﬂavour has a story to tell. If that wasn’t enough there is even a Ten Acre village - ﬁctional of course - but a place where the secrets behind those rather special names can be uncovered. Open a packet of Ten Acre and make your way there - for it only comes to life when you close your eyes and start to munch! Welcome to Wonderful.

Find us in fine food shops, delis, cafes and bars. tenacresnacks.com

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Welcome to wonderful 30/09/2015 11:51

Your chariot awaits Be the envy of the park with the new Balmoral Bespoke from Silvercross, exclusive to Harrods. The handmade-toorder personalised baby carriage comes in five shades of premium leather, with a hand-stitched hood and apron, handcrafted metallic C-spring chassis, and a sturdy handle in walnut or white. Each pram is individually polished and painted, and comes complete with an engraving of your newborn’s name. £5,000, available exclusively at Harrods (harrods.com)

Kids’ news Soft spot Keep your little ones warm this autumn with the softest knits Cashmirino has to offer. Made from wool sourced in Mongolia by founder Maria, the cosy collection boasts chunky cashmere pullovers, pastel rompers and simple accessories to wrap your kids up in. Our personal favourite is this soft pink skater dress with a hand-knitted floral design, complete with matching scarf. From £50 (cashmirino.com )

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A very merry unbirthday To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Charbonnel et Walker has released a commemorative box of chocolates themed around the book’s sequel, Alice Through The Looking Glass. Packaged in a gift box decorated with re-drawn and re-coloured illustrations of Alice and Humpty Dumpty, milk, white and dark chocolates make up the selection of Wonderland-themed treats – the perfect accompaniment to a Mad Hatter’s tea party. £24 (charbonnel.co.uk)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Hop to it Just when we thought Minna Parikka’s bunny trainers couldn’t get any cuter, the brand has launched a newborn size in soft pink, silver and black. We’ve been after a pair ever since we first set eyes on the sweet rabbit ears, so we’re sure these Baby Bunnies will go down a treat with trendy tots ready to take their first steps. From £85 (minnaparikka.com)

Hot wheels Limo Broker puts you in touch with some of the most stunning chauffeur and self-drive vehicles in the UK, so booking your limousine or a fleet of coaches is made as easy as a click of a button. Choose from a variety of stylish vehicles – from vintage wedding cars to polished Bentleys, kid-friendly rides or stylish limousines, complete with well-stocked bars. Take the pressure off long journeys and put your feet up safe in the knowledge that whichever ride you opt for you’re guaranteed to arrive in style. POA (limobroker.co.uk)

MR HENDRIX leashed

enerations of children have fallen in love with hedgehogs thanks to Beatrix Potter’s Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, and I am no exception. It has taken me all summer to build a friendship with Harry the Hedgehog, who spends most of his evenings out in our garden making me jump every night, but now November has arrived it’s time for us to say goodbye until next year as he goes off to hibernate with his belly full. As Harry the Hedgehog has deserted me, Anji and I decided to venture to the Lavender Barn Tea Rooms in the heart of Dunham Massey. This quirky family-run tea room is just my cup of water. The garden is full of lavender, a herb used for 2,500 years to promote calm and tranquillity, so I would definitely get your paws on the vast array of soaps, oils and balms they have to offer. Lavender is not only a wonder drug for humans, but can also help my furry friends with many ailments, boosting our immune systems, and preventing doggie breath and separation anxiety. It also promotes increased appetite and reduces stress, but I find my stress levels are completely at ease while I’m tucking into my lunch at the tea rooms, with the converted barn boasting comfy sofas, doggie beds and treats for all my pals. Horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks and many more furry friends are proud to call Lavender Barn their home. The pony parties make every little girl and boy’s dreams come true, with all the ponies dressed in pink or purple. Brush and plait the ponies’ manes and tails before riding them around the lavender fields, then paint your very own horseshoe before sitting down to a party tea. The Lavender Barn is the perfect place for children to explore, hang out with wildlife and live the country life for a day while adults indulge in afternoon tea. Events run throughout the year for the whole family, so check their website for all the news. With a dog café and shop opening soon I will be sure to be back. But the country air has wiped me out so, with my belly full, I am off to hibernate for the rest of the afternoon. Until next time, love and licks

Mr Hendrix

xxx (facebook.com/MrHendrixandfriends; lavenderbarntearoom.com)

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“Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” Joshua J. Marine

2015 OPEN DAYS

Sixth Form

For girls aged 16+ Thursday 15th October 6.00 to 8.00pm

Senior School

For girls aged 11-18 Thursday 5th November 4.30pm to 6.30pm Saturday 7th November 10.00am to 12noon

NEW PURPOSE-BUILT, EXPANDED JUNIOR SCHOOL OPENED SEPTEMBER 2015 Additional classes for girls in Years 5 & 6

Find out more by calling 0161 224 1077 Wellington Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6BL

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Junior School

For girls aged 7-11 Thursday 5th November 4.30pm to 6.30pm Saturday 7th November 10am to 12noon

wgs.org

Means -tested bursaries now available from Year 5 upwards

24/09/2015 11:45

homes and

interiors showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY IN CHESHIRE AND BEYOND

Dream

weaver

Rosita Missoni talks about the new Missoni Home Collection and imparts some interiors wisdom

image courtesy of the missoni home collection

Homes & interiors news

Armed and fabulous Drawing inspiration from Japanese antique armour, the 2015 Armani/ Casa Exclusive Textiles collection by Rubelli has reimagined these traditional Asian motifs using geometric shapes, resulting in a more contemporary take. Historic designs taken from the hand guards - or ‘tsubas’ - of Japanese Katana swords have also been translated into the fabrics in the range. The textiles, available in striking jewel tones reminiscent of the Orient, have been made with silk, metallic yarns and metal laminates, thereby giving the collection a luxurious feel that does justice to the classic Armani style. From £216 per metre; Rubelli/Donghia (rubelli.com; dcch.co.uk)

Finishing touch Award-winning British designer Lee Broom has created a range of pendant lights inspired by, and made out of, decanters. A playful twist on the common whisky decanter, Broom’s Decanterlight collection is designed to be arranged in clusters, which immerse the room in a sensual glow, creating a sense of intimacy in your favourite space. Bell Decanterlight, £200 Lee Broom (discoverdeliver.com)

Village people Inspired by a downtown Manhattan loft, West Village by Ralph Lauren is a collection filled with vintage and industrial-inspired pieces that are guaranteed to bring an artistic, bohemian aesthetic to any room. From the Parisian bistro lighting to the Victorian bookcases, each covetable furnishing can be accompanied by the collection’s textiles, created in shades of red, grey, black and white. The red tones juxtaposed with understated neutrals are a characterising facet of the range and bring attention to the Japanese boro cloth patterns and mackinaw plaids. Relaxed and carefree yet still sophisticated, West Village parallels the neighbourhood after which it is named. Prices available on request (ralphlaurenhome.com)

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Cool runnings Sub-Zero & Wolf has been keeping our kitchens chic for 70 years with its renowned refrigerators, ovens and appliances. It is the brand of choice for many of London’s top cafés and restaurants, and celebrities alike, endorsed by the likes of Rod Stewart, Sir Paul McCartney and Gordon Ramsay, to name but a few. Sub-Zero & Wolf’s astute sense of style will add a touch of functional flair to any kitchen – and long may it continue. Sub-Zero & Wolf (subzero-wolf.co.uk)

Put your feet up Hermès is synonymous with chic Parisian style, and with its newest interiors collection, the brand is bringing discerning design into the home once more. Echoing the iconic status of its renowned silk scarfs, the Carré D’assise is an elegant collection of stools with Canaletto walnut legs and a range of customisable covers. The pieces can be topped with leather or fabric, and adorned with narrative motifs or graphic designs, ensuring that your piece is truly unique. Carré D’assise, price on application, Hermès (020 7499 8856; hermes.com)

Wall to wall Launching at Decorex this month, the Henry wallpaper from Blackpop’s new range, The Tudors – Deconstructed, is a collaboration with the National Portrait Gallery. Created as a response to the gallery’s collection of Tudor paintings, the designs have been spearheaded by Blackpop director, Maxine Hall, who has integrated the distressed styling and vibrant colourway of the portraits to create a fabulous range of wallpapers, fabrics and furniture. Henry wallpaper from The Tudors – Deconstructed, £152 per roll, Blackpop (blackpop.com; decorex.com)

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Homes & interiors news

We’ve got it made Devotees of ever-popular (and oh-so practical) online design brand MADE. COM will be thrilled to hear that last month saw the opening of a brand new northwest showroom based in Liverpool’s trendy Metquarter. Helping interiors aficionados to source gorgeous pieces for the home at reasonable prices (thanks to the fact that MADE.COM skips the expense of middlemen such as agents, importers and warehouses), the 4000sq ft showroom will be only the third to open in the UK (the others are in London and Leeds), and means you’ll now be able to indulge your interiors addiction like never before. Metquarter, 35 Whitechapel, Liverpool L1 6DA (made.com)

Contemporary cool One of our favourite design houses, Roche Bobois, is launching its gorgeous new Autumn/Winter collections in store this month, and we’ve been lucky enough to get a sneak peek – trust us, they’re as exciting as they are innovative. We especially love the beautiful Rosace Collection (pictured) with its striking 3D faceted façade, and the gorgeous

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Cusco chair with its quirky, colourful chenille fabric and velvet piping. And here’s a tip; the brand is celebrating its new collections with an ‘8 Exceptional Days’ promotion starting on 10 October, a perfect excuse to take advantage of some fabulous offers. Roche Bobois Manchester, 121 Great Ancoats Street, Manchester, M4 5AG (0161 236 1517; roche-bobois.com)

Make yourself at home Create a kitchen where the welcome is warm, cooking is a joy and everyone loves to gather Suffolk kitchen lovingly hand-painted in Charcoal with brass handles and perfectly irregular Elcot tiles. Corinium lidded jar and serving platter from ÂŁ36

Create your own designs at neptune.com Neptune Wilmslow, SK9 1BJ, 01625 535255, info@neptunewilmslow.com

jackson-stops.co.uk

Altrincham A handsome detached property set in stunning private grounds enjoying a delightful Westerly aspect.

• 3 reception rooms • media room • 5 bedrooms • 5 bath/shower rooms • gym • games room • potential to create a separate annexe • in all just over half an acre • EPC - C Guide Price: £2,250,000

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Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Bowdon The significant portion of a substantial period house bordering onto the Dunham Forest Golf and Country Club.

• 2 reception rooms • media room • study • conservatory • 4 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • garaging • in all just over 1 acre • EPC – D Guide Price: £ 2,750,000

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Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk

Offices in London and across the country

jackson-stops.co.uk

Knutsford A wonderful extremely spacious 5 bedroom bungalow with large gardens.

• approx 3,760 sq ft • 3 reception rooms • study • 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • garaging • approximately 0.6 of an acre • EPC - E Guide Price: £995,000

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Kermincham A stunning, beautifully presented, contemporary barn conversion with lovely gardens.

• 3 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • garaging • gardens • EPC - C Guide Price: £750,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Prestbury An unparalleled Arts & Crafts style manor house with breathtaking hand-crafted luxurious living.

• dining hall • 5 reception rooms • library • 7 bedrooms (all en suite) • art studio • leisure suite • garaging • about 1 acre • EPC - C Price on Application

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Alderley Edge A magnificent, newly constructed, future-proof Alderley villa with a superb leisure suite.

• 3 reception rooms • snug • 5 bedrooms (all en suite) • leisure suite • garaging • gardens • EPC - B Guide Price: £3,150,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk

Offices in London and across the country

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Buxton

Mottram St Andrew

A substantial Victorian family house in the Peak District.

A contemporary, cutting edge, bespoke house with a breathtaking interior.

• 6 reception rooms • 8 bedrooms • 8 bathrooms • garaging • coach house with 1 bed flat • about 9.7 acres • EPC - E

• 5 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • leisure suite • studio with en suite • garaging • approx 5.31 acres • EPC - C

Guide Price: £2,250,000

Guide Price: £2,395,000

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Henbury

Knutsford

A period Cheshire farm house with detached barn.

A contemporary detached barn conversion nestled in walled gardens.

• 4 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • 2 bed barn • garaging • in all about 8 acres • EPC - F

• 4 reception rooms • 6 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • garaging with pp for 2 bed apartment • gardens • EPC - C

Guide Price: £899,995

Guide Price: £1,395,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Wilmslow A stunning 6,000 sq ft family house with superb south-facing gardens sitting on one of the most sought-after roads in Wilmslow.

• 4 reception rooms • conservatory • study • snooker room • gym • 5 bedrooms (all en suite) • garaging • over half an acre • EPC - E Guide Price: £2,295,000

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Wilmslow A substantial period house with a stunning, generously proportioned interior, within walking distance of central Wilmslow.

• 5 reception rooms • snug • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • gardens • EPC - E Guide Price: £1,395,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk

Offices in London and across the country

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Alderley Edge

Wilmslow

A captivating Grade II Listed period cottage in a desirable location.

An exquisite spacious family house with stunning views.

• 3 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • 1 bed annexe • gardens

• 5 reception rooms • study • 6 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • garaging • about half an acre • EPC - C

Guide Price: £795,000

Guide Price: £1,550,000

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Brownlow

Prestbury

A substantial period house nestled in extensive gardens.

A beautifully presented family house nestled down a private road.

• 4 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • 2 bed annexe • garaging • approx 2/3 of an acre • EPC - C

• 2 reception rooms • 4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • garage • gardens • EPC - C

Guide Price: £785,000

Guide Price: £685,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk

Offices in London and across the country

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CGI

Over Alderley

Mottram St Andrew

An exciting opportunity to build a 11,378 sq ft house with leisure complex.

An outstanding meticulously designed house with 21st Century fittings.

Proposed: • reception rooms • 6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms • leisure suite • garaging • over 11 acres in all • EPC - E

• 10,000 sq ft • reception rooms • 5 bedrooms suites • leisure suite • garaging • approximately 1.5 acres • EPC - B

Guide Price: £2,695,000

Guide Price: £4,950,000

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Alderley Edge

Kermincham

An original Alderley villa nestled in mature south-facing gardens.

An exquisite contemporary house nestled in rolling countryside.

• 5 reception rooms • cinema room • 5 bedrooms • 4 bath/shower rooms • garaging • just over half an acre • EPC - E

• 4 reception rooms • 5 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms • leisure suite • garaging • tennis court • stabling • excess of 2.5 acres • EPC - D

Guide Price: £2,500,000

Guide Price: £2,495,000

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Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk

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INSPIRATION

Dream Weaver Rosita Missoni speaks to Ellen Millard about her favourite pieces from the latest Missoni Home collection, style tips for the new season and the importance of a close-knit family

here are few brands that can claim a truly iconic emblem. Burberry has its check, Louis Vuitton its monogram and Chanel its double C logo. Among these icons is Missoni, whose zigzag print is ingrained internationally, either consciously or subconsciously, in the minds of both the fashion forward and the sartorially indifferent.

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INSPIRATION

The trademark pattern began life in the hands of a humble couple from northern Italy. After meeting her late husband Ottavio ‘Tai’ Missoni at the 1948 London Olympics (he was a participant in the 400m hurdles), Rosita set up a tracksuit business before moving on to knitwear. Missoni’s signature weave was in fact the brainchild of Tai, who adapted a Raschel knitting machine, blending a mix of colours to produce the unique wave design. Their knitwear shop rose to fame following a brief scandal in 1967 at the Pitti Palace in Florence. At the instruction of Rosita, braless models walked down the catwalk sporting the brand’s latest range of slinky knits, unaware that the bright spotlights would cause the lamé blouses to become transparent. Needless to say, they were not invited back, but this did little to damage the fledgling house’s reputation. By the end of the year, Missoni clothes were being featured on the cover of Arianna magazine and, shortly afterwards, the pages of Elle, Marie Claire and Women’s Wear Daily. Their early work was quickly endorsed by

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Italian writer Anna Piaggi, French stylist Emmanuelle Khanh and then Vogue editor Diana Vreeland, who helped the brand make a name for itself in the US, resulting in its first ever boutique in Bloomingdales. Fast-forward 48 years and the label is still a household name; its collaborative collection with Target sold out within 24 hours and famously crashed the retailer’s website, and its sportswear and interiors lines have been equally well received. Driving its success are the still soaring sales of rainbow space-dye knits, geometric prints and contrasting stripes, which are still synonymous with the house. “I have always been sensitive to colour,” Rosita tells me. “I grew up in the province of Varese with views of the mountains, and their colours were always changing. My family’s company made shawls and kimonos from embroidered and coloured fabrics, so I grew up among colour.” However, the Missoni matriarch left the fashion label in the early nineties and relaunched the interiors branch in 2004, where she now lends her natural eye for colour and print to plush sofas, floor-toceiling curtains and striped rugs. Having built the company from the ground upwards, the departure came as a surprise to many, but, she says, she was more than happy to pass the torch on to her daughter Angela, who released her debut collection in 1994. For Rosita, interior design is a skill that comes naturally. “Interiors are my roots,” she explains. “My grandparents used to have a factory, which produced embroidered fabric for shawls and lampshades, so yarns and fabrics are a language I have known since my childhood. Playing with pieces of cloth has been the game of my life. I used to work with passion, and fashion had become a duty. I felt very relieved when Angela decided she was ready to take the reins of the fashion collection. At that time I realised

Homes and Interiors

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INSPIRATION

that the home was becoming fashionable. I could again transfer my passion for patterns and colours, and reflect my fashion sense in the home collection.” And that she did, mixing her sense of style with her love for interiors, often taking inspiration from the label’s ready-to-wear collections. “The most successful and famous icons from the Missoni range have simply been transferred from fashion to home, on suitable fabrics and in an ever-expanding range of products,” Rosita tells me. “Sometimes I might see a beautiful fabric from our fashion house and I’ll take it home and put it over a table or over a chair, then decide how it can be used as a curtain or a bed. Fashion is an integral part of the label; we take note of trends and observe the wave of change, but we are never ruled by fads.”

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This could not be clearer than in her response to any minimalist trends: “It’s not for me. The eighties were difficult as minimalism was popular,” she muses. “Luckily we had very loyal customers, so we kept doing what we loved.” Imagining Rosita’s own home as an explosion of print and colour, I ask if she does the décor herself. “Absolutely! My home is my nest: unconventionally stylish, cosy, comfortable, colourful, harmonious, happy, relaxing and full of light,” she responds passionately. “Besides my bedroom, which is my refuge, I would say the dining room is my favourite room because it is the core of the home. It is a kind of veranda with sliding door windows overlooking the garden.” Decorating her abode with a mix of Missoni (of course) and second-hand wares (“I am particularly fond of flea markets. There is always

Homes and Interiors

something unexpected to find”), Rosita recommends investing in the pieces you fall in love with: “If it is something that you are passionate about, then it will always have a place in your home.” For AW15, the designer suggests mixing block colours and patterns to create a playful aesthetic. “I tend to use solids or tone-on-tone fabrics for sofas and big armchairs, on which one can display cushions of different sizes, even in macro patterns,” she says. “I like playful elements, creating flexible patterns and furnishings, easily moving from indoors to outdoors; I always try to mix comfort and fun,” she continues. “Personally, I love the use of screens or circular rugs to create backgrounds and corners. We have introduced a modular screen to Missoni Home that can be covered in the fabric

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INSPIRATION

from the collection. It is a new way to bring pattern to the space.” As you’d expect, pattern is at the heart of the Missoni Home collection; one glance at the 2015 lookbook reveals decadent bedspreads, tableware and furniture in a kaleidoscope of colours mixed together through floral prints, stripes and, of course, the signature zigzag design. After more than six decades in business, how does Rosita come up with new ideas, season after season? “My inspiration comes from everywhere; from art, books, flea markets and my lifestyle,” she explains. “The view of the mountains around me, the garden and the flowers that bring me pleasure and make me feel relaxed.” Having celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2013, the house is the subject of two retrospective projects this year: a book by Mariuccia Casadio and Luca Stoppini entitled Missonitutto will be released this month while the exhibition Missoni, Art, Colour, runs until November at the Museo MA*GA in Gallarate, Italy, showing 100 iconic Missoni pieces, paintings by Tai

All images courtesy of Missoni Home

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“I like playful elements, creating flexible patterns, easily moving from indoor to outdoor” Missoni and an installation by the founding couple’s son, Luca, who looks after the business archive. But it seems that along with hard work, a close-knit family is the secret to the brand’s long-lasting success. As one of the last fashion houses still functioning under the guise of its founding family, Missoni is a design tour de force, leading the fashion and interiors worlds respectively with its army of style-savvy kin. At Missoni Home, Rosita works closely with her niece Wanda Jelmini and nephew Carlo Torrani, while her children and grandchildren take care of the ready-to-wear range. “Fashion is ephemeral, and this is its great charm,” she says. “But home is long-lasting.” Missoni Home is available from amara.com

Award - Winning Architectural & Interior Design

we are in collaboration with International Designer Eric Kuster and have a stunnnig new L uxury by appointment showroom showcasing Eric Kuster design and much more .

b y a p p o i n t m e n t s h ow ro o m

W: j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:

01625 861935

The Old Stables, Capesthor ne Hall, Nr Alder ley Edge , Cheshire . SK11 9JY

B U I L D I N G O N S O L I D F O U N DAT I O N S S I N C E 1 9 5 3

NOW BUILDING IN WILMSLOW, CHESHIRE

WWW.HENDERSONHOMES.CO.UK

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION… Cheshire is the chosen location for six stunning new developments from award winning homebuilder, Henderson Homes. Beaufort, Macclesfield Road, Alderley Edge A strikingly beautiful residence in a private and peaceful location, yet just a few minutes walk from Alderley Edge village, Beaufort offers stylish and versatile living accommodation, perfectly planned so as to meet every modern living and lifestyle requirement.

Pembrey Daveylands, Wilmslow ‘Pembrey’ is an attractive new detached home located in a private setting close to Wilmslow town centre. The property is smart and spacious, provided are five bedrooms; an open plan kitchen, breakfast and day room; study/home office; living room; dining room and ground floor cloakroom. Surrounding the home are private gardens.

Marple, Cheshire Work will shortly commence on two attractive four bedroom Image coming soon detached family homes in Marple’s most sought after residential area. Each home will be traditionally styled but with contemporary influences, and will provide spacious living accommodation, a large garden and fine views.

Maple House Fletsand Road, Wilmslow A grand new detached residence in a highly sought after location, ‘Maple House’ features traditional architecture with contemporary ‘New England’ style elements. Over 6,500 sq ft of perfectly planned luxurious living accommodation is offered, finished to an exemplary high standard.

Hurst Lane, Bollington Coming soon is a stunning new development of four detached and two semi-detached homes idyllically located alongside the Macclesfield canal. Properties offer far-reaching views and provide easy access to schools and amenities within Bollington village.

Goostrey, Cheshire A peaceful location adjacent to open farmland is the Image coming soon chosen spot for an exclusive new development of seven, four and five bedroom family homes (subject to planning). Each home will be designed to complement the precious location and will offer spacious living accommodation plus large gardens with mature planting.

About Henderson Homes Henderson Homes is a third generation family developer with over 60 years experience of providing perfectly crafted homes for discerning private purchasers.

Based in Cheshire and operating throughout the North West of England, its award-winning portfolio includes luxurious unique dwellings and small select developments of family homes in prime and picturesque locations.

For more information contact Henderson Homes on 01565 832786 or visit www.hendersonhomes.co.uk

UK Pool & Spa Awards. Residential Outdoor Pool Of The Year 2015.

Contact us and see how we can make your dream pool a reality... t: 01704 544 222 e: info@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com

Portrait Pools & Enclosures Ltd 13 Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1RP

Homes and Interiors

RECREATE THE LOOK

Dining in style

ining rooms used to be the most formal room in the house, saved for special occasions, but new trends have emerged, life has become more fast paced, and as a result the formal dinner party has changed in style. Many dining rooms are now placed in an open-plan kitchen, but even if yours isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t laid out this way, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certainly no reason not to create a beautiful yet comfy area in which to sit and relax with your friends. Dining rooms are a place to socialise and relax after a long week, and you want your space to be as inviting as possible.

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RECREATE THE LOOK

TOP TIPS f r o m N i c o l e G o o d e at H a m p t o n L i v i n g

Storage Storage is important in a dining room as you need somewhere to keep all your glassware, china and linens. A sideboard, or unit with drawers/ cupboards is ideal for this use. They both also give you space to place decorative items, either on the top of the sideboard, or shelves in the unit.

Table decoration Decorative items look great on your dining table, but be careful where you place them. The last thing you want is for your guests to be fighting to see each other over your display. Consider keeping things low and long down the centre of the table. This is the best way to encourage conversation among your guests.

from top left: Cavillo Tea Light Holder Gold, £8, PUJI; Alessi Trinity Steel Fruit Holder, £109, BLACK BY DESIGN LTD; LSA Lotta Vase/Lantern and Ash Base, £33, Black By Design Ltd; LSA Serve Low Bowl, £38, Black By Design Ltd

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Homes and Interiors

Lighting Lighting is a great way to create the right mood for a space. In a dining room you are looking for a warm glow. Pendant lights work well as overheads, preferably on a dimmer switch, and go for plenty of lamps. You want to create an intimate mood, but remember that people are eating and will want to be able to see their food.

Table linen Get reflective

Dressing your table is one of the most important things you will do in preparing your dining room. Linen is a great fabric, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elegant and falls beautifully over the table, adding a natural softness that stops your table being too formal. A finer linen will give a style more suitable for evening use, while a heavier-weight, rougher-finished linen is perfect for everyday use.

Mirrors are a great addition to a dining room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not only do they add a touch of sophisticated glamour, they help to make a room look larger. They also reflect light around the space, which can be a great benefit during our dark winters. Try lighting candles or lanterns in front of a mirror to create an inviting atmosphere.

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SOOTHING HUES #1 James Dining Chair in elephant, £485 #2 Matteo Bookcase in stone and mastic, £4,450 #3 Jules Dining Table, £1,920 #4 Delphes Tray in dark grey large, £POA #5 Bastien Mirror in dark grey, £390 All available from Hampton Living (hamptonliving.co.uk)

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TANNERS WINES NOW OPEN IN CHESTER

TANNERS WINES

150 Christleton Road

CHESTER CH3 5TD Tel: 01244 343244

Do come and see us at our new branch on Christleton Road just off the A55 ring road. You will find that we have been perfecting over four generations along with the friendly staff ready to give down-to-earth advice.

u u u u

TANNERS

Free local delivery Tastings, sampling system & seating Great value for money Plenty of parking

Large Independent Wine Merchant of the Year 2015/16

WINE MERCHANTS ESTABLISHED 1842

Independent family shippers of estate wines

www.tanners-wines.co.uk

International Wine Challenge

Homes and Interiors

RECREATE THE LOOK #2

#5 #4

PARED BACK #1 Togo Lamp various colours available £165 #2 Joe Sideboard in cloud and gris £1,400 #3 East Floor Lamp £POA, Made to Order #4 Long Island Tablecloth £106 #5 Mambo End Table in white £210 All available from Hampton Living (hamptonliving.co.uk)

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The time has almost arrived for the doors to Manchester’s most anticipated luxury dining venue to open for the first time. Located in the heart of Manchester’s iconic King Street the arrival of Quill has had the city buzzing and on Thursday October 29th Quill, King Street’s newest bar and restaurant, will welcome VIP guests for its exclusive launch event. Thereafter this unique setting will be open and guests will enjoy refined dining in beautifully designed private areas and bespoke cocktails in secluded booths. The luxurious surroundings of Quill have been designed by specialists Collective Design, winners of one of the most prestigious design awards in the UK, The Interior Designer of the Year. When guests step inside they will be transported into a city centre oasis where newly appointed Head Chef Curtis Stewart promises a dining concept with fine dining and high levels of gastronomy with food that plays on perception and touches on nostalgic memories. This combination promises an extraordinary and highly exclusive venue in the centre of the city of Manchester. Will you be there? QUILL 22-24 King Street Manchester M2 6AG

@QuillMCR

W W W.Q U I L L M C R .C O.U K

gardens

Red and yellow and pink and... Janine Murray-Smith says now is the time to plant a rainbow for an explosion of colour in springtime

rocuses, snowdrops, muscari, narcissi, hyacinths, daffodils and tulips are just a few of the bulbs you can buy, plant now and enjoy in the new year. They are inexpensive and an easy way to fill your patch with a burst of colour. You may only have room for a pot or two, or have acres to fill, but either way you’ll be spoilt for choice – a nice dilemma! And there are so many shapes, sizes and colours too. The question is whether to go

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for a combination of rich, bright, clashing oranges and burgundy, a more restrained display in your favourite colour, or a stylish all-white palette – whatever you choose, there are bulbs to suit. A mixture of the same colour but in differing shapes and heights can look quite stunning in a pot. Try frilly parrot tulips with a spikey lily variety. Under-plant a tall, erect, rich ruby tulip with plumcoloured wallflowers, or layer crocuses with narcissi and tulips in a pot lasagnestyle for months of flowers. There are multi-headed varieties of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, and many have a wonderful scent, so pop them by the front door. Bulbs for spring need the cold to get them going, so put crocuses and daffodils into the ground by the end of October. For tulips November is best to prevent fungal disease. As a rule of thumb, plant three times the depth of the bulb and in groups of five or more. Just scatter and plant where they fall, but not too close or they’ll come up all leaf.

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Many bulbs will happily naturalise and go on multiplying in numbers, flowering for you to enjoy for many years to come. Snowdrops look beautiful spreading under trees with winter aconites. Try a contorted hazel under-planted with fritillaries and miniature iris and muscari. There are so many to choose from, and so many ways to display bulbs. I hope you have a pleasant time finding the ones you like best, then sit back to wait for your rainbow.

Tips – Squirrels, deer and local cats love to dig up bulbs, so either cover them with a layer of chicken wire or use wire cloches to protect them until established. – Wear gloves when handling to avoid aggravating the skin. – Dead head when the flowers fade, but don’t be tempted to hack back the leaves until they yellow or the bulb will be weakened. – When planting use a good-quality fungicide with bulb starter.

“As a rule of thumb, plant three times the depth of the bulb and in groups of five or more” Recipe for Bulb Lasagne 1. Put a layer of broken crockery in the base of your pot for drainage 2. Add about 5cms of compost and bulb starter 3. Sit tulip bulbs on top and close together (to flower April-May) 4. Add another 5cms of compost and bulb starter 5. Place a layer of narcissus or hyacinth bulbs on top (flower April) 6. Add more compost as before 7. Sit the crocus on top (February-March) 8. Add the final layer of compost 9. A layer of shingle or small gravel on top will deter slugs and look smart.

Suggestions For drama: tulip ‘Black Parrot’ – one of the darkest available (April-May); crocus sativus (the saffron crocus), rich lilac with deep red stigmas (Oct-Nov); daffodil ‘Red Devon’ – rich yellow with orange centre cup. Multi-headed: tulip ‘Havran’ – blackcurrant (April); daffodil ‘Winston Churchill’ – white with orange centre (March-April).

Scented: narcissus ‘Silver Chimes’ – cream (April); hyacinthus orientalis ‘Purple Star’– rich mauve and blueberry (AprilMay); tulipa ‘Orange Favourite’ – freesia scent (late May).

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INSPIRATION Inspired by spring bulbs, here ARE some ideas to get you started

#3 #2 #6

#4 #5

#1 Rosa Chinensis trowel and fork, £19.95 (annabeljames.co.uk) #2 Grapevine bin, £155 (musthavebins.co.uk) #3 Ladies leather gauntlets, £29.99 (gettingpersonal.co.uk) #4 Zinc watering can, £21 (theorchardhomeandgifts.com) #5 Gardener’s notebook, £3.50 (oakroomshop.co.uk) #6 Flowerpot and bulbs gift, £15.40 (hum-partnership.com)

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RESIN BOUND DRIVEWAYS

Botanica Resin Bound.... At BRB we pride ourselves on the design and installation of beautiful resin bound driveways. This product has all the aesthetical beauty of a quintessential English gravel driveway, combined with the lowest maintenance of all the other surface choices. It is tough, durable and completely permeable. A Botanica Resin Bound Drive will enhance the look of any property and continue doing so for many years to come. The product comes with a 18 year guarantee that covers cracking, oil stains, loose stones and UV discolouration. Resin bound gravel can be laid directly over suitable tarmac drives or installed from scratch.

GARDEN DESIGN Botanica Garden Design is an award winning Cheshire-based garden design and landscaping company, with over 20 years experience in creating exquisite and classical contemporary gardens in Cheshire and the surrounding counties. Our in-house garden designer will work with you every step of the way, from the concept stage through to the completion of the garden build. We strive to offer the finest of services with outstanding quality and attention to detail. In the past 20 years Botanica has built a reputation as one of Cheshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest garden design and build companies.

Botanica Garden Design Cable Road, Hoylake, Wirral. CH47 2AY 0151 632 0909 07779 024 853 info@botanicagardendesign.com www.botanicagardendesign.com

Approved Installer of the year 2015

Winner Botanica Resin Bound Driveways

Botanica Resin Bound Driveways Cable Road, Hoylake, Wirral. CH47 2AY 0151 632 0909 07779 024 853 info@botanicaresinbound.co.uk www.botanicaresinbound.co.uk

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Homes and Interiors

HOT PROPERTY WE’VE PUT TOGETHER A SHORTLIST OF OUR top properties from AROUND cheshire WHICH ARE currently ON THE MARKET

FERNSIDE PICKMERE

Fernside is a fabulous modern country house standing in six acre gardens dominated by a small lake immediately to the rear of the house. The main house has wonderful entertaining and family spaces, complemented by an open plan daily living space which integrates a lovely contemporary bespoke kitchen with both formal and informal sitting and dining areas including a really special bespoke bar area, all leading onto the terrace and deck beside the lake. There are several other large reception rooms, including a large drawing/media room and a family room/study, and an integrated staff apartment on the ground floor. The

house features five bedrooms, all en-suite, the master bedroom boasting a large walk-out balcony overlooking the water, dressing room and wonderful en-suite bathroom. Each of the other bedrooms boasts either a bathroom or shower room en-suite, and all have lovely views over the surrounding grounds. The entertaining barn provides a fully separate first floor one-bedroom apartment, a domestic office suite, and ground floor leisure rooms, including a games and media room with service kitchen and gymnasium. Additional features include garaging, four stables, a garden store, dog run and 10 ½ acre paddock. On the market at a guide price of £2,950,000 through Jackson-Stops & Staff, 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340; jackson-stops.co.uk)

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CARRWOOD HALE BARNS

Aboda Living specialises in luxury residential property, creating properties of architectural distinction, building both speculatively and by client appointment, and using the finest materials to offer beautifully crafted and practical living spaces. The multi-disciplined service incorporates plot identification, design, planning, property development, construction and project management, all orchestrated with Aboda Living’s efficiency and attention to detail. They offer an end-to -end solution – from plot identification through to handing over the keys to your new home – using an in-house architect and interior design services, unique main contractor partnership and preferred partner network of professional service providers to achieve results of the highest possible quality. This beautiful home is a fantastic example of contemporary design, perfectly balancing functionality with modern inspiration. The house benefits from a generous open plan design, including a kitchen of the highest specification and a collection of informal

living areas. The ground floor also boasts a utility room, generously apportioned study, formal dining room and lounge. Upstairs are five en-suite bedrooms, the master bedroom accompanied by a dressing room and terrace. Outside are a triple garage, terraces and landscaped grounds, while security is given prime importance with the inclusion of a video entry system. The gardens are south-facing, with stunning uninterrupted views over the Bollin Valley and plenty of space for entertaining. On the market for £3.25 million with Gascoigne Halman (0161 929 8118; gascoignehalman.co.uk)

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HOT PROPERTY

BARN 2 DAIRY HOUSE FARM, BRERETON PARK

Set in 0.6 acres, Barn 2, Dairy House Farm, is simply an architectural masterpiece, lavishly fusing wonderful period features with the latest, no expense spared, 21stcentury fittings, blending beautifully to create an intoxicating mix of elegance and grandeur. Large light rooms, opulently fitted, drip off the impressive central staircase like encrusted jewels. The layout of the rooms, just like the location of each and every fitting, has been meticulously thought through and

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has resulted in a family house of extraordinary quality. The ground floor has three sizable reception rooms and an ambassadorial-size kitchen breakfast room that overlooks the rear walled garden. The first floor is mainly open to the eaves, giving the house a real feeling of luxury, with four double bedrooms, two en-suite shower rooms and an exquisite family bathroom. The master bedroom enjoys beautiful parkland views from the large picture window. A shared drive leads through a brick and oak arch with electric gates, leading to a courtyard in front

of the house with the garaging either side of the gates. The block-paved courtyard lies to the front of the barns, providing an ample parking and turning area. To the rear there is a fantastic entertaining space with white granite flagstones and a landscaped walled garden with terracing, which can be accessed from the rear of the house. To the side there is a separate entrance with further hard standing and an entrance to the paddock. On the market at a guide price of ÂŁ995,000 through Jackson-Stops & Staff 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AA (01625 540340; jackson-stops.co.uk)

L I V E B E A U T I F U L LY As leading Cheshire-based developers, ABODA Living creates stunningly distinctive properties, expressing our passion for contemporary design. With no two houses ever the same, our aim is to provide a genuinely unique home for each client.

developments sees us craft beautiful individually inspired properties designed to perfection. Using only the finest materials and methods available we ensure our homes are practical and functional as well as true design statements.

Attention to detail is our forte and our innovative approach to lifestyle

For truly contemporary luxury homes ABODA Living is proud to lead the way.

Aboda Carrwood A4.indd 1

To discuss current properties, or bespoke requirements contact: m info@abodaliving.co.uk c 0161 929 8186 W www.abodaliving.co.uk

29/09/2015 12:19

PROPERTY PICK

PLAIN SAILING This month we take to the seas to bring you our monthly property pick â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to the Mediterranean and Caribbean, in fact, in the custom-built motor yacht, St. David

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PROPERTY PICK

aunched in 2008 by the worldrenowned Benetti shipyard, this magnificent 60-metre custom-built motor yacht offers stunning exterior space and flexible interior, making it the perfect choice for a family cruise, corporate event or simply some picturesque cruising. Awarded ‘Best Charter Yacht’ by Robb Report in 2009, she is innovatively styled both inside and out, and showcases a study of artisanship in every respect. Her opulent interior sleeps up to 12 guests in six impressive staterooms, including a magnificent master suite, one VIP stateroom and four doubles. Split over two levels, the master suite features a sumptuous lounge area with bathroom, with a raised bedroom for the ultimate in privacy and luxury. With panoramic views and a beautiful staircase, she offers a truly unique charter experience. Throughout her interior living spaces, intricate craftsmanship is finished to the highest standards, evident in her beautiful mosaic floors, sculptured tables that rise and fall, detailed marquetry and magnificent sweeping spiral staircase.

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“Throughout her interior living spaces, intricate craftsmanship is finished to the highest standards”

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PROPERTY PICK

The Baroque-style architecture and Italian Riviera style create a lavish atmosphere on board, while a floating staircase which spans three decks is topped by a skylight and peeks into the bottom of the sun-deck pool to add an element of design pedigree and interest. Outside, her decks are equally impressive, with her sundeck offering shaded areas for comfortable relaxation (with dedicated masseuse on board), a large pool and a huge entertainment area. Her experienced owner endeavoured to build a superyacht that would cater to all ages and vacation types. From watching movies under the stars at the outdoor cinema and trying out all manner of watersports (from jetskis to diving) to partying the night away with friends in her private nightclub, St. David offers a charter experience like no other. St. David is currently heading to the Caribbean, where she will begin her winter charter season (from €240,000 per week), but is available for summer cruising

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“Her experienced owner endeavoured to build a superyacht that would cater to all ages and vacation types” around the Mediterranean (from €280,000 per week). She is also available for sale at €29,500,000. For further information, please contact Sarah Tucker at West Nautical, Cheshire (sarah. tucker@westnautical.com; westnautical.com)

When your hom e is part of who you are For a certain type of person, their home deﬁnes them. It plays a fundamental part in their contentment with life. If that sounds like you, we should meet. Because at Eventus we understand you want your residence to be the sum of a thousand extraordinary parts. Where every room makes a statement. Every space exudes style and grace. And every detail - from light switches and skirting boards to the pool tiles and landscaping - has been considered and ﬁnessed. That’s why Eventus exists. To design, build and deliver residences that are as extraordinary as their owners. For more information about Eventus call 01942 263485 or visit us at www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Eventus Properties Ltd Oakland House, 21 Hope Carr Road, Leigh, Lancashire, WN7 3ET T. 01942 263485 E. info@eventusproperties.co.uk www.eventusproperties.co.uk

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06/03/2014 11:21

Cheshire and Manchesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Independent Estate Agents Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk

Stamford Road, Bowdon Guide Price ÂŁ1,495,000 Wilmslow and Alderley Edge Office 36/38 Alderley Road, SK91JX Sales: 01625 532000 Lettings: 01625 536300 E: wilmslow@jordanfishwick.co.uk

A beautifully presented Victorian 7 bedroom Semi-Detached family home set in the heart of the Bowdon Conservation Area and built in 1874. Positioned on probably one of the most desirable roads in Bowdon the house is set well back from the road and is a most attractive period property with stunning South Facing gardens to the rear. This beautiful period property offers remarkable family living space extending to approximately 3900 sq ft, arranged over Four Floors including Cellars

Hale Office 172 Ashley Road, WA15 9SF Sales: 0161 929 9797 Lettings: 0161 929 9898 E: hale@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Didsbury Office 757-759 Wilmslow Road, M20 6RN Sales: 0161 445 4480 Lettings: 0161 434 5290 E: didsbury@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Macclesfield & Prestbury Office 84-86 Waters Green, SK11 6LH Sales: 01625 434000 Lettings: 01625 502222 E: macclesfield@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Sale Office 95-97 School Road M33 7XA Sales: 0161 962 2828 Lettings: 0161 976 5080 E: sales@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Langham Road, Bowdon Guide Price ÂŁ2,195,000 Glossop Office 44 High Street West, SK13 8BH Sales: 01457 858888 Lettings: 01457 858888 E: glossop@jordanfishwick.co.uk

A stunning contemporary property set in the heart of Bowdon on a very secluded 0.5 acre plot with South Facing views over Bowdon Cricket Club and the Cheshire plains.This property has undergone a transformation under the current owner to now create beautiful contemporary living space of around 4500 sq ft that provides flexible living accommodation. No expense has been spared with a real eye for detail ensuring the highest specification including ultra modern kitchen & bathrooms, Lutron graphic eye lighting system, AMX Smart Technology controls and under floor heating.

Chorlton Office 410-412 Barlow Moor Road, M21 8AD Sales: 0161 860 4444 Lettings: 0161 860 4444 E: chorlton@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Manchester City Centre Office 217 Deansgate M3 3NW Sales: 0161 833 9499 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 E: manchester@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Salford & Media City Office City Point Unit 2, 156 Chapel Street M3 6BF Sales: 0161 833 9499 opt 3 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 opt 2 E: salford@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Northern Quarter Office 45 Tib Street M4 1LT Sales: 0161 833 9494 Lettings: 0161 833 9494 E: nor thernquar ter@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Cheshire and Manchester’s Leading Independent Estate Agents Visit our new web site www.jordanfishwick.co.uk

Beechfield Road, Alderley Edge Guide Price £4,200,000 Wilmslow and Alderley Edge Office 36/38 Alderley Road, SK91JX Sales: 01625 532000 Lettings: 01625 536300 E: wilmslow@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Nestled at the top of Alderley’s most prestigious road, this stunningly designed mansion offers an opportunity to acquire a property which has been individually designed by a nationally recognised and highly regarded architect, Rod Hackney. Knights Keep sits on a elevated plot of around an acre and is approached by a winding driveway.The generously proportioned flexible accommodation includes bespoke ‘Christians’ kitchen including granite work surfaces, fully fitted cinema room, indoor swimming pool complex and changing area. Along with so much more that you really need to view to appreciate!!

Hale Office 172 Ashley Road, WA15 9SF Sales: 0161 929 9797 Lettings: 0161 929 9898 E: hale@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Didsbury Office 757-759 Wilmslow Road, M20 6RN Sales: 0161 445 4480 Lettings: 0161 434 5290 E: didsbury@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Macclesfield & Prestbury Office 84-86 Waters Green, SK11 6LH Sales: 01625 434000 Lettings: 01625 502222 E: macclesfield@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Sale Office 95-97 School Road M33 7XA Sales: 0161 962 2828 Lettings: 0161 976 5080 E: sales@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Eccles Road, Whaley BridgE Guide Price ÂŁ795,000 Glossop Office 44 High Street West, SK13 8BH Sales: 01457 858888 Lettings: 01457 858888 E: glossop@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Commanding far reaching views over Combs Reservoir to the hills beyond, an absolutely stunning architect designed detached executive home. Adjoining open countryside, barely recognisable from its former self, the property has been tastefully extended and fully renovated in recent years to provide spacious accommodation offering up to Six bedrooms/3 Bathrooms together with a jaw dropping open plan luxurious dining kitchen/living room. Lawn gardens with play area, raised decking, ample off road parking and detached double garage.

Chorlton Office 410-412 Barlow Moor Road, M21 8AD Sales: 0161 860 4444 Lettings: 0161 860 4444 E: chorlton@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Manchester City Centre Office 217 Deansgate M3 3NW Sales: 0161 833 9499 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 E: manchester@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Salford & Media City Office City Point Unit 2, 156 Chapel Street M3 6BF Sales: 0161 833 9499 opt 3 Lettings: 0161 833 9499 opt 2 E: salford@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Northern Quarter Office 45 Tib Street M4 1LT Sales: 0161 833 9494 Lettings: 0161 833 9494 E: nor thernquar ter@jordanfishwick.co.uk

Give your plot a fairytale ending Most of us have a dream home in our heads. At Eventus, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the business of turning it into stunning reality. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re starting with a plot of land, or demolishing and starting again, or need a sensitive redesign of a precious listed property - Eventus are experienced project managers. With the skills, experience and passion to deliver your completed project, on spec, on time and on budget. Discover some of our latest projects at www.eventusproperties.co.uk. Then tell us your dream.

Eventus Properties Ltd Oakland House, 21 Hope Carr Road, Leigh, Lancashire, WN7 3ET T. 01942 263485 E. info@eventusproperties.co.uk www.eventusproperties.co.uk

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13/08/2015 10:51

Homes and Interiors

overseas property

we’ve picked OUR FAVOURITE properties from AROUND THE WORLD for your viewing pleasure

FRANCE

Château de l’Herm, Perigord

PORTUGAL

Golfe Leste 5, Quinta do Lago Situated in one of the most beautiful areas of the Algarve, this modern villa is a striking property against its lush green surroundings. The open concept living space is ideal for entertaining, while six bedrooms provide flexible accommodation. A white tiled infinity pool has steps leading down from the pool area to an external dining and entertainment terrace, kitchen, cloakroom, BBQ and water feature. The property is currently on the market at a guide price of €4.95 million (£3.6 million) with Quinta do Lago (quintadolago.com)

Classified as a Historical Monument since 1927, Château de l’Herm consists of a main building with three floors which is flanked by two round towers to the west along with a beautiful hexagon tower. The property is set in one hectare and boasts stunning period features throughout, including Gothic detailing and original fireplaces. The property is abandoned now and would need a large amount of work to restore it to a liveable state; however, two additional smaller properties, which are lived in now by the owners, come with the price of the property. Available at a guide price of €580,000 (£425,000) through Perigord Sotheby’s International Realty (+ 33 (0)5 53 30 440; perigord-sothebysrealty.com)

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overseas property

UNITED STATES

Toro Canyon Park Road, Montecito This Montecito property offers seclusion yet utter luxury with unparalleled views of mountains, islands and the ocean beyond. Set in 160 acres of wilderness, the four-bedroom home boasts a beautiful infinity pool which juts out into the hills, giving a glassy mirror-like reflection. The building materials have been chosen carefully, and include an abundance of glass, to bring the outdoors in, and ensure fluid outdoor living. Santa Barbara is the nearest airport and it is 26 minutes away by car. On the market at a guide price of $8.5 million (ÂŁ5.4 million) through Sothebyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Realty (+1 805 969 9993; sothebyshomes.com)

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UNITED STATES

Southampton Waterfront Estate, Hamptons, New York

4 5

The estate of the late designer and art advisor, Garrick C. Stephenson, is one of the largest remaining contiguous parcels of land in Southampton. This rare magnificent waterfront property is comprised of approximately 20 wooded acres and 3,165 feet (965 metres) of frontage on Bullhead Bay. It currently comprises a five-bedroom contemporary home, serene pond, waterside swimming pool, a fixed deep water dock and boat facilities On the market for $34 million (£21.7 million) with Christie’s International Real Estate (+1 212 508 7362; christiesrealestate.com)

SPAIN

Tossa de Mar, Costa Brava South

Nestled amongst the cliffs in one of the most beautiful parts of Spain’s ‘Wild Coast’, Costa Brava, this magnificent property offers endless and spectacular views over the sea. The contemporary design is fitted to the highest standard, with luxurious finishes throughout. Accommodating up to seven bedrooms, the property takes advantage of its surroundings with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout and features an infinity pool and an outdoor cinema. On the market at a guide price of €9.6 million (£6.9 million) with Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty (+34 972 624 070; costabrava-sothebysrealty.com)

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overseas property UK

Riverside, Newton Ferrers, Devon

The boutique development represents some of the first new-build properties to come to the area for years. Each of the three period-style cottages benefits from water frontage and a running mooring, in addition to panoramic views over the estuary. Each house at Riverside, Newton Ferrers is different and all will be finished to a high specification, offering the charm of period style whilst still having all of the amenities required for 21st-century living. Each house will have large eat-in kitchens with open-plan living, luxurious master bedroom suites, along with further bedrooms and bathrooms. Prices from £1.195 million. Available through LREA (+44 (0) 203 327 2750; riversidenewtonferrers.co.uk)

UNITED STATES

864 Stradella, Los Angeles Stradella is a modern masterpiece boasting the best views in Bel Air. Perched above the city on one of the Platinum Triangle’s most coveted streets sits this breathtaking contemporary home designed by renowned architect Paul McClean. Completed in August 2014, the striking, sleek design’s seamless integration of utility and explosive city to ocean views redefines today’s luxury home. No detail is spared throughout a dramatic open floor plan that includes seven bedrooms, 12 bathrooms and such five-star amenities as a wine cellar, gym, home theatre, finished auto gallery and infinity pool. On the market at $55 million (£35.2 million) with Christie’s International Real Estate (+1 310 691 5945; christiesrealestate.com) All Prices And Exchange Rates Correct At Time Of Print

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New showroom opening soon in Bollington Cheshire

t: 01704 544 222 e: info@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com

Homes and Interiors

BEAUTIFUL THINGS

Image courtesy of: Missoni Home

A Close Knit No one does colour quite like Missoni, whose rainbow zigzag print is internationally recognised, whether you’re a fashion fanatic or not. Keeping true to form, the interiors branch of the brand, Missoni Home, offers decadent bedspreads, tableware and furniture in a kaleidoscope of colours in its latest collection. Vibrant floral rugs, striped chevron sofas and divider screens in the label’s eclectic prints make up the line of luxurious knits, designed by the label’s co-founder, Rosita Missoni. Add a pop of colour to your home this season with the brand’s signature zigzag design, adorning throws, cushions and sofas in jewel tones, or try something different and opt for the poppy print poufs and lilium upholstery for a floral twist. Available from Amara (amara.com)

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Award - Winning Architectural & Interior Design

we are in collaboration with International Designer Piet Boon and have a stunnnig new L uxury by appointment showroom showcasing Piet Boon design and much more .

b y a p p o i n t m e n t s h ow ro o m

W: j a n e y b u t l e r . c o . u k E: hello@janeybutler.co.uk T:

01625 861935

The Old Stables, Capesthor ne Hall, Nr Alder ley Edge , Cheshire . SK11 9JY