Hale&Bowdon Magazine Feb | Mar 2020

FeBrUAry | MArCH 2020 • issUe 104

M AG A Z I N E

spoil tHe oNe yoU loVe on Valentine’s Day

The Vineyard Hotel, Berkshire A grape escape for wine lovers

Win the Ultimate Girls’ NiGHt iN at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa

NATIONAL AWARD WINNING ADVICE – ON YOUR DOORSTEP

New Decade – make it a happy & prosperous one FREE CONFIDENTIAL INITIAL MEETING Call, email or simply drop into our Friday morning clinic Kellands Chartered Financial Planners – proud to provide a full advisory service for private & corporate clients for over 30 years

Tax planning. Investments. Specialist generational planning. Pensions. Mortgages.

INVEST WITH CONFIDENCE

Tel: 0161 929 8838 Kellands (Hale) Limited, 24 Victoria Road, Hale, Altrincham WA15 9AD

hale@kelland.co.uk | www.kelland-hale.co.uk The value of investments can go down as well as up. Past performance is no indicator of future returns. This article is correct at time of going to print and does not constitute advice. Kellands (Hale) Ltd is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. It is your responsibility to keep up with the monthly repayments of your mortgage, otherwise your home may be at risk.

GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Beverley Uddin-Khandakar e: beverley@salutions.co.uk GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR Salim Uddin-Khandakar e: salim@salutions.co.uk JOURNALIST / OFFICE MANAGER Emily Fitzgibbons e: emily@salutions.co.uk ADVERTISING Call the sales team on 0161 445 2883 e: info@salutions.co.uk ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Paul King / Claire King

www.twistedgifted.co.uk e: creative@twistedgifted.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Reed Fay Wertheimer Oliver Chesher Dr Jill Nash Catherine Saunders Ray King Lisa Symonds Emily Fitzgibbons PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Browne PR Shots Bigstockphoto.com Press Loft Martin Hambleton EDITOR’S IMAGE Julian Kronfli

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It’s that time of year when many of us come up with New Year’s resolutions and set ourselves the mission of becoming a new, improved, happier version of ourselves.

Oh, what a night! Once again, the Salutions Winter Wonderland Charity Ball was a huge success, raising much-needed funds for Maggie’s Manchester and Papyrus.

Whatever it is, we all need something to focus on, whether it’s getting fitter or losing a bit of weight, moving home, finding a new job, or maybe a new love! Well, it is a leap year; so, to all the ladies out there, tired of waiting for a proposal, here’s your chance. Better jump on it now – that bus won’t be around for another four years!

If you would like to buy a ticket or a table or sponsor this year’s ball at The Edwardian Manchester on November 28th, please email salim@salutions.co.uk or call us on 0161 445 2883.

There’s lots to read in this issue and plenty of ideas for Valentine’s gifts. And don’t forget to enter the competition to win ‘The Ultimate Girls’ Night In’ for you and three friends at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa.

Here’s hoping we all enjoy the new year ahead (and keep our resolutions intact)!

Beverley x GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Beverley@salutions.co.uk

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Don’t miss out M AG A Z I N E

JUNE | JULY 2019 • ISSUE 100

M AG A Z I N E

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2019 • ISSUE 62

M AG A Z I N E DECEMBER | JANUARY 2019 • ISSUE 124

M AG A Z I N E APRIL | MAY 2019 • ISSUE 34

Glass Room

All aboard London’s sensational sail & dine experience

Dante

Hale’s Italian newcomer

Barrecorre

The brand-new exercise phenomenon

Brilliantly Beige

Fashion goes neutral this season

We test drive the new

Christmas Gift Guide for yuletide inspiration

Pamela Reckert’s dream role at Mottram Hall

FIXX Salons A cutting-edge service in Altrincham

Win a couple’s makeover at

Protecting you, your home and your business 24/7

FIXX Salons Altrincham

Meet the brave boy behind the big event

Non-invasive treatment for depression and anxiety

Benchmark

Bentley Continental GT

Dexter’s Ball

Tranquil TMS Dunham Forest Golf & Country Club – picture-perfect makeover revealed All around the world with Brasserie Blanc’s new spring menu We meet Max Eden – The heart of the Hale Barns Carnival

M AG A Z I N E

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2019 • ISSUE 98

M AG A Z I N E

M AG A Z I N E

APRIL | MAY 2019 • ISSUE 63

APRIL | MAY 2019 • ISSUE 126

Dante

Dexter’s Ball

M AG A Z I N E JUNE | JULY 2019 • ISSUE 35

TV chef realises her dream

Hale’s Italian newcomer

The Westbury London

Barrecorre

Luxury in the heart of Mayfair

Meet the brave boy behind the big event

The Westbury London Luxury in the heart of Mayfair

The brand-new exercise phenomenon

Parveen The Spice Queen

Lemn Sissay MBE In conversation with Didsbury Arts Festival

Rex Cinema

Amanda Mundin on bringing the big-screen back to the community

Win Afternoon Tea for two

The Westbury London

K West Hotel & Spa London

Luxury in the heart of Mayfair

Monochrome interiors Professor Luciano Nardo

Bringing you the latest fashion, beauty, lifestyle, travel, news and food

reveals exciting news from Reproductive Health Group

@theglossymagazine

FIXX Salons A cutting-edge service in Altrincham

Tony Collier

talks prostate cancer awareness

Win a couple’s makeover at

Subscribe for just £19.99 a year Manchester Vein Clinic

FIXX Salons Altrincham

Varicose vain removal tried & tested

theglossymagazine.com

@theGlossyMag

Timeless elegance for every room

We meet Max Eden The heart of the Hale Barns Carnival

Contact emily@salutions.co.uk or call 0161 445 2883

@theGlossyMag

ON THE COVER M AG A Z I N E

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2020 • ISSUE 104

M AG A Z I N E

SPOIL THE ONE YOU LOVE

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2020 • ISSUE 131

M AG A Z I N E

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2020 • ISSUE 68

FEBRUARY | MARCH 2020 • ISSUE 39

Longueville Manor Hotel, Jersey

on Valentine’s Day

The Vineyard Hotel, Berkshire

Sonia Pabla-Thomas Building on a passion for creativity & sustainability

A grape escape for wine lovers

A grape escape for wine lovers RAFAEL AMORIM

EMBRACE THE BLUES Win the Ultimate GIRLS’ NIGHT IN

Capturing special moments

SPOIL THE ONE YOU LOVE

on Valentine’s Day

at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa

Win the Ultimate GIRLS’ NIGHT IN at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa

The Vineyard Hotel, Berkshire A grape escape for wine lovers

SPOIL THE ONE YOU LOVE on Valentine’s Day

DIDSBURY MAGAZINE Sonia Pabla-Thomas SPACE AP Mat Wright Photography

SPOIL THE ONE YOU LOVE

Win the Ultimate GIRLS’ NIGHT IN

on Valentine’s Day

at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa

HALE&BOWDON MAGAZINE Bigstockphoto.com

Win the Ultimate GIRLS’ NIGHT IN at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa

BONUS SAPOR MAGAZINE MEDIACITY MAGAZINE Bigstockphoto.com Longueville Manor Jersey

This Magazine is published six times a year by Salutions Limited. The contents may not be reprinted or reproduced without prior written permission. The publishers are not liable for statements made and opinions expressed. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and the publisher can take no responsibility for omissions and errors.

Salutions Limited. 5 The Stables, Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5PG 0161 445 2883 | info@salutions.co.uk | Visit us online: salutions.co.uk

Competition Terms & Conditions No purchase necessary. Employees of Salutions Limited and associated companies, promotional partners, their agents and families are not eligible to enter. Entries will be declared void if found mutilated, illegible, altered, reconstructed, forged or tampered with in any way. In the event of there being more claims than prizes available in any category, then prizes will be awarded to the earliest claimant. (Where applicable, as stated.) All entries are subject to scrutiny. Salutions Limited reserves the right to stop the promotion/competition at any time at its own discretion. Winners must accept that their names may be announced on any Salutions related media, including web and print, and may be used for publicity purposes if required. Rules as published, when applicable to specific joint offers, product discounts etc. All prizes unclaimed remain the property of Salutions Limited. Persons under the age of 18 are not eligible to enter. The prize must be taken as offered and is not transferable. No cash or credit alternatives will be given.

Editor’s decision is final. By entering a competition you agree to receive e-letters and mailshots from Salutions Limited. We do not sell our database to third parties and are compliant with the Data Protection Act 1998. Should you wish NOT to receive such information, please state NO OFFERS. By entering the competition you agree to the above terms and conditions.

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU SKIN LIFTING

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REGULARS 01 09 30 31 32 34 37 38 54 64/65 66

Editor’s Letter News and Views fabulously floral interiors Grow your own, Lady Muck-style Crazy about Crystal interiors Valentines Gifts for Him and Her Cool Crochet fashion trend Cool Blue fashion Beauty: Our february favourites Ask the Experts Education News: Latest updates from the schools

PEOPLE 18 20 26 39 76 6

Charlie and Gina: Brown Bear Events Rafael Amorim sonia Pabla-Thomas : sPACEAP Jan Iceton: smart Works sing Out Music Gospel Choir and soul Band

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

TRAVEL & ENTERTAINMENT 42 44 46 49 50 77 78 80

food Review: Dishoom This month’s Top 5 Places to Eat The Belsfield Hotel: Windermere Top 5 Romantic Resorts Top 3 Vineyard stays Coffee Tech What’s On: Plenty of fun and Entertainment Motors: McLaren GT Grand Tourer

AND THE REST...

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salutions Winter Wonderland Ball Win the Ultimate Girls’ Night In at The Mere

FOR PAINFUL SPORTS INJURIES AND OSTEOARTHRITIS Our treatments:

>

APS (Autologous Protein Solution)

>

Stem cell therapy

> >

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PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Viscosupplementation Combination therapy

Relieve pain, avoid surgery, restore function

at The European Scanning Centre, Kingsley Hall, 20 Bailey Lane, Manchester M90 4AN

Tel: 0161 493 9633 | Email: admin@regenerativetherapycentre.co.uk www.regenerativetherapycentre.co.uk

Anything is Possible.

All it takes is determination.

Know that above all else, we’ve got your back.

• Divorce • Financial Settlements • Children Disputes • Cohabitation Matters • Civil Partnership Disputes • Domestic Violence

Contact us now

0161 507 7145 mcalisterfamilylaw.co.uk ¬ ­

Manchester • Cheshire • London

‘Amanda McAlister is truly phenomenal’ The Legal 500

For all life’s legal needs

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

LOCAL NEWS

Mark Waugh

BBC and RHS North West Garden Design Competition

At this year’s RHS Flower Show Tatton Park, amateur gardeners and aspiring garden designers will have the chance to design a garden to be featured at the show which takes place from July 22-26. With urban gardening on the rise, the RHS has teamed up with BBC Radio Lancashire, Manchester and Merseyside to invite listeners to submit their designs for a ‘City Garden’, which represents their local radio station and offers creative ideas that make the most out of small outdoor spaces.

Entrants will be judged on how well the garden interprets the City Gardens theme, how interesting and creative the design is, their effective use of plants, and how well the design considers sustainability issues.

Three lucky listeners, one from each region and whose designs impress the judges, will be chosen and given the opportunity to work alongside a professional mentor and landscape contractor to bring their design to life at RHS Tatton Park.

An ultimate winning garden will then be chosen at the show and relocated to the brand new RHS Garden Bridgewater in Salford, set to open this summer.

Gemma Lake, Show Manager for RHS Flower Show Tatton Park, said: “This is a money can’t buy opportunity for someone passionate about gardening and design to see their vision come to life at an RHS Show, gain expert advice and hands-on experience in garden design.”

For more information on how to enter the competition, visit the BBC website at bbc.co.uk

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Buying a home

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

TLC celebrate the festive season

Liz Taylor, CEO of the event management and production company the Taylor Lynn Corporation, was joined by Coronation Street star Antony Cotton, his partner Peter Eccleston and 150 other guests at the company's stylish annual Christmas party.

Dax and Kami

The TLC team: Liz Taylor, Ellie Barnes, Jess Randall, Lauren Worsley and frankie Lyons

Antony Cotton, Liz Taylor and Peter Eccleston

CNM launches Health Coach Diploma Course

Held at Cultureplex in Manchester, the party celebrated the festive season with live music, a DJ and dancing.

Combined with thorough business marketing training, this offers CNM health coaches all of the skills, knowledge and tools required to start a thriving health coaching business.

With students and graduates such as Camilla Hansen, Rosemary Ferguson, Bruno Babolin and Madeleine Shaw, CNM is accredited in many different countries, so graduates can practise and share their expertise across the globe.

Designed to meet increasing demand from clients and health professionals for an integrated healthcare approach, the College of Naturopathic Medicine (CNM) has just launched a one-year Diploma in Health Coach Training. Classes can be taken in class or online.

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

CNM believe that good knowledge comes from practice. The CNM Health Coach Diploma consists of five modules: How the Body Works, Nutrition and Health, Fitness and Exercise, Coaching, and Marketing and Business Promotion. It is also designed to include many practice sessions, so that students can apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios throughout the course.

CNM is UK’s No.1 training provider in natural therapies, training successful practitioners in class and online; surveys show that over 80 per cent of graduates are practising. Alongside health coach, CNM offers diploma courses in nutrition, acupuncture, herbal medicine, homeopathy and natural/vegan natural chef. Colleges across the UK and Ireland.

Find out more at thehealthcoach.com or call 01342 410505.

Employment issues

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Create the home of your dreams with a visit to Build It Live this February Are you planning an extension to your home in 2020? Or perhaps you even have aspirations to build a new home from scratch? Whatever your plan for a dream home, make sure you pay a visit to the Build It Live show at EventCity next to the intu Trafford Centre in Manchester on February 22nd and 23rd.

The exhibition aims to provide a stress-free route to creating a truly individual home, with the opportunity to meet hundreds of suppliers as well as a wide range of independent experts, who can provide invaluable (free!) advice and top tips on your own self-build or home renovation project.

Architects and other experts will be offering one-to-one advice on how to turn a project into reality, including how to find land, what is possible with and without planning permission, and how to ensure you have the right design.

At the show, there will be a number of specialist areas, including a Heating Advice Clinic, glazing manufacturers displaying a huge range of bi-fold and sliding doors, French doors, windows, contemporary and traditional front doors, and rooflights. There will also be a Build Cost Clinic to help you understand how much it will cost to build the home of your dreams.

There are 100 pairs of free tickets worth £24 to giveaway. Simply visit builditlive.co.uk and use promo code NORTH100

McAlister Family Law wins Best Family Law Firm at the Talk of Manchester Awards

McAlister Family Law has been awarded the Best Family Law Firm trophy at the Talk of Manchester Awards. Nominations for the awards resulted in more than 260 companies being put forward, as Manchester business people cast more than 146,000 votes online over a two-week period.

Amanda McAlister, Managing Partner of the Alderley Edge and Manchester city centre-based family law firm, said of winning the award: “McAlister Family Law is only two years old, but we have experienced an overwhelming demand from those looking for what we offer: a strength and depth of experience that is unrivalled outside of London. To know that our clients and our peers have literally voted in their thousands for us is a genuine honour.

“This award win is testament to the hard work, dedication and sheer talent of everyone in the McAlister Family Law team.

I am very proud of them all.” Host and Founder of The Talk of Manchester, Paul Kilroe, said at the event: “Whether you leave tonight a winner, with a Special Commendation or simply with pride in your nomination, you do so safe in the knowledge you are the best this great city has to offer.”

The event also raised funds for local charity Kidscan, a charity dedicated to beating Children’s Cancer.

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Bereavement advice

HemingwayDesign

Modern Designers

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

MediaCityUK appoints brand and placemaking agencies ahead of expansion plans

MediaCityUK in Salford, Greater Manchester, has appointed HemingwayDesign and Manchester-based Modern Designers in a joint venture to develop brand and placemaking strategies to coincide with the next phase of its expansion plans.

As part of their research, the agencies launched the leading creative, tech and digital hub’s largest stakeholder engagement and research programme to date, which ran for three weeks.

The digital survey invited MediaCityUK businesses, residents, local communities, partners, policymakers and visitors to share their views, perceptions and experiences of MediaCityUK. HemingwayDesign has a track record in the delivery and influencing of placemaking concepts across the UK, while Modern Designers’ expertise in creating brands for some of the UK’s best-known businesses complements the partnership.

Josie Cahill, Head of Stakeholder Engagement, said: “MediaCityUK is set to double in size over the next decade, with

thousands more people living, working and visiting here, so it’s the right moment to launch this important piece of work, which will influence our future vision.

“A great place has people at its heart.

MediaCityUK’s evolution is not just about buildings but about creating a place which serves the needs and aspirations of the people and organisations who are based here as well as the local community.

“We’re delighted to have appointed HemingwayDesign, who are behind some of the most transformative and exciting placemaking projects in the UK, including King’s Cross, Blackburn and York. Pairing them with Modern Designers, whose extensive experience in the creative, digital and cultural sectors, results in a powerful collaboration and we’re looking forward to working with them both.”

Wayne Hemingway, partner at HemingwayDesign, said: “MediaCityUK has already attracted a cohort of worldrenowned brands, is located at the heart of a vibrant conurbation and, as it enters its

second decade, it feels like the time is right to think about the brand’s purpose and values and accelerate the placemaking.”

With its roots in Manchester, Modern Designers is an insight-led brand agency, whose current projects include a major built-to-rent scheme with Capital & Centric and Henry Boot, and the largest retail development in the Netherlands for Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield. It has also developed brands and projects for clients as diverse as JD, Condé Nast, the Whitworth and the Science Museum Group.

Susie Stubbs, Managing Director of Modern Designers, said: “MediaCityUK was a game-changer when it launched 10 years ago, and it’s been instrumental in changing the creative, digital and media landscape in the North. We’re genuinely excited to be working with HemingwayDesign and the team at MediaCityUK and are looking forward to hearing people’s views on what it is and what it can be.”

The Great Kathmandu Tandoori Restaurant

Award winning Nepalese & Indian Cuisine Winners of the Hardens Observer Readers Choice for Indian Cuisine in the UK

140-144 Burton Road, West Didsbury M20 1JQ

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WEEKDAY LUNCH OFFER - Mon to Fri 12 noon - 2.30pm - £6.95 www.greatkathmandu.com | T: 0161 445 2145 or 0161 434 6413

Discount for mid-week party bookings *(Excludes Bank Holidays, set menu’s, lunch menu’s and any other offer) Call for details

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Total food bill Mon-Weds*

Divorce and separation

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

A first-ever official city-to-city tourism partnership agreement CEO, Fred Dixon, and Virgin Atlantic’s Head of Brand Strategy and Campaigns, Hai Bei Chen, for the announcement and signing ceremony in Manchester.

Marketing Manchester and NYC & Company, New York City’s official destination marketing organisation, have signed a first-ever official city-to-city tourism partnership agreement. The new two-year partnership agreement between the two cities includes the sharing of best practices in tourism marketing and working with Virgin Atlantic to stimulate reciprocal travel. Marketing Manchester’s Managing Director, Sheona Southern, was joined by NYC & Company’s president and

“I’m incredibly proud that Marketing Manchester has secured what is undoubtably a very powerful partnership with NYC & Company,” said Marketing Manchester managing director, Sheona Southern. “New York City is one of the top tourism destinations in the world and to be able to align ourselves with a city that we have so much in common with – especially in respect to being open, diverse and welcome destinations – is a huge coup and speaks volumes about Manchester’s increasing global profile.

“Marketing Manchester has been delivering strategic and tactical marketing in the USA for many years and this formal partnership – based on an agreement to share insights and intelligence, connections and

collaboration opportunities and access to media infrastructure – is particularly significant as Virgin Atlantic will this year increase capacity by 65% on their non-stop flight to/from Manchester Airport/John F. Kennedy International Airport.”

The city-to-city partnership includes the sharing of best practices in tourism marketing and destination management, including strategy around arts and culture, sports, and LGBTQ+ travel. New York City and Manchester will also exchange marketing assets worth $500,000 USD in each destination. New York City will utilise digital billboards on Manchester’s main roads, courtesy of Ocean Outdoor, and across TfGM (Transport for Greater Manchester) to promote the destination.

Manchester will have bus shelters and Link NYC digital screens throughout New York City to promote its tourism message as well.

Altrincham chef launches crowdfunding campaign meat and plant-based diets, the cookbook draws from French-born Olivier’s four decades of experience in the culinary world, including 20 years at the helm of the highly rated La Boheme restaurant in Lymm.

On a mission to revive the British public’s love of French home-cooked food, renowned Cheshire restaurateur Olivier Troalen is launching a £50,000 crowdfunding campaign to create a new cookbook – A Taste of Home – that he hopes will inspire households up and down the country to add French cooking to their weekly menus. A Taste of Home will celebrate the meals and dishes you would find on the dining room table of a typical French family. Boasting over 70 hand-selected recipes, catering to both

Aware of his nation’s perceived reputation for producing overly complex recipes, the head chef, who now lives in Altrincham, has designed the book with simplicity in mind, hoping that it will become the ultimate guide to French home-cooking, including professional ‘cheats’ to make the preparation process quicker and easier.

Although the crowdfunding is due to go live on March 5th, the project has already attracted a significant amount of attention, with over 300 people registering their interest before the new year.

In return for £100 crowdfunding donation, Olivier is offering supporters a range of very special awards, including: a signed copy of A Taste of Home; their name

displayed in the cookbook; a £50 La Boheme voucher; a branded La Boheme chef ’s apron; and a VIP invitation to the book launch in September 2020.

Olivier hopes to replicate the success of his popular debut cookbook, A Taste of France in North West England, which sold out across the UK in 2012. Speaking of his latest venture, he said: “My mission is to make Brits fall in love with French food again and A Taste of Home captures the essence of this, celebrating authentic home cooking and battling the ‘fancy’ stereotypes French dishes are often associated with.

“The cookbook is a really special opportunity for everyone involved and I look forward to inviting people to be a part of its journey through the crowdfunding campaign.”

You can follow Olivier and the crowdfunding campaign via Instagram (oliviertroalen_laboheme) and Twitter (LaBohemeLymm).

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Settling disputes

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

St Ann’s Manchester Midnight Walk

The city will be abuzz with excitement on Friday April 24th as people from across Greater Manchester swarm to its streets to take part in the 14th annual St Ann’s Manchester Midnight Walk. The event’s popular bee theme will be back this year and another familiar presence will be local company Betfred, which is sponsoring the 10km moonlit walk around some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks for the sixth year.

Chief Executive of St Ann’s Hospice, Eamonn O’Neal, said: “Our Manchester Midnight Walk is a key date in our diary and with the number of supporters joining us increasing every year, it’s clearly a

highlight for our wonderful supporters across Greater Manchester too.

“The walk has raised more than £2 million since it began, and the money raised helps St Ann’s to continue providing their specialist care to local patients and their families. “This year we’re hoping that Manchester city centre will be a bigger hive of activity than ever on the night. It really is wonderful to see so many people coming together to have fun and show their pride for our city and support for Manchester’s hospice.”

The walk starts at midnight and participants will take on a 10km loop, which starts and

ends at Manchester Cathedral. Warm-up entertainment starts at 9pm, with music, disco and refreshments available before the walk begins. Eamonn added: “The Midnight Walk has been incredibly popular since we launched it 14 years ago and as those who have taken part in the past know, there’s a real party atmosphere.

Many walkers take part in memory of lost loved ones, whilst others join in simply for a night of fun and fundraising.

“I’m looking forward to seeing lots of bees buzzing around on the route this year, but anyone who isn’t a fan of dressing up shouldn’t worry, please still come along, everyone’s support is very much appreciated.”

St Ann’s is asking participants to support it by pledging to raise £100 in Midnight Walk sponsorship this year. This amount could fund its ambulance for a day or provide a two-hour specialist rehabilitation session for one of its patients. Interested walkers can sign up to take part in the 10km moonlit stroll now by visiting the website mmwalk.org.uk or calling 0161 498 3631. A special early-bird rate is available for keen walkers who book their place by February 29th, 2020.

Travel bosses party with Peter Andre after scooping top award Travel store on Wilmslow Road, Didsbury, met the Mysterious Girl singer at the Jet2 VIP conference for independent travel agents, held this year in Calpe on Spain’s south eastern coast.

Don Bircham and Lindsey Barber (pictured centre) of Hays Travel North West collect their award from Peter Andre at the Jet2 VIP conference.

Travel bosses from a Didsbury store partied with Peter Andre after scooping a top award for the third year running at a prestigious industry conference. Don Bircham and Lindsey Barber of Hays Travel North West, which runs the Hays 16

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

The three-day conference recognises the hard work and commitment of the best independent travel agents throughout the UK. Hays Travel North West took one of the main prizes during the awards evening for the best large independent travel agency in the UK, winning it for the third consecutive year. The store received its award from the popular performer and TV personality himself and went on to enjoy many of the celebratory events laid on as part of the trip, including a fancydress party and the awards gala dinner.

Don set up his business in 2000 with one

store in Mold, North Wales, and now runs almost 40 stores across the North West and North Wales region. Don and Lindsey were joined on the trip by Hays Travel North West Regional Manager, Toni Smith, and manager of the firm’s Maghull store in Merseyside, Emma May. They were among more than 300 top performing agents and delegates taken out to the AR Diamante Beach & Spa in Calpe, Costa Blanca by tour operator Jet2.

Hays Travel North West is the main partner of Hays Travel, based in Sunderland, which is the UK’s largest independent travel agency. The firm’s owners, John and Irene Hays, recently took over all 555 Thomas Cook stores following the collapse of the well-known travel brand.

The Clique 100 Club Manchester

The Clique 100 Club held their official launch party in the stunning penthouse suite at the Stock Exchange Hotel, Manchester Previously known as theProfileClub, Clique Luxury Events acquired the prestigious business club at the end of 2019 and rebranded it the Clique 100 Club Manchester.

Membership of the club provides top-level business introductions at a range of VIP events, plus members have access to a package of benefits. Commenting on the event, Sarah Restrick, Business Development Director of the Clique 100 Club, said: “It was a fabulous evening and a great opportunity to meet current members and to introduce some new ones for 2020. Clique Luxury Events is delighted to add the club to their portfolio and pleased to have founder of theProfileClub, Barbara Hallwood, continuing as brand ambassador for the Clique 100 Club. “Undoubtedly, the entertainment provided on the evening by the fabulous musicians – String Infusion – was the icing on the cake.” clique.co.uk

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

17

The Brown’s are back in town Brown Bear Events sisters Charlie and Gina are back on home turf, and we sit down with them to discuss how they’re more than ready to help you create your next dream event

The events and lifestyle company, initially set up in Dubai in 2015, offers a wide range of services, so whether it’s full or part planning, events assistance or onsite management, rest assured the sisters and their team can turn your fantasy into reality, leaving you and your guests with experiences to remember and memories to cherish.

“At the time we launched, we had gained over 15 years’ experience within the events, hospitality and lifestyle industry whilst working for other agencies based in both the UK and Dubai,” says Charlie.

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Charlie and Gina both started out working for one of the best North West events companies, where they were given the opportunity to master the key event planning skills required for the success of any event.

“Working on both private and corporate events, such as weddings, birthday parties, bar/bat mitzvahs, gala and charity dinners worldwide, gave us a huge amount of valuable experience across the globe,” Charlie tells us.

Then came the big move to Dubai.

“When we relocated,” Charlie continues, “we both worked for one of the largest worldwide communications agencies Edelman, focusing on events and PR. We were educated within the corporate events industry, where we learned key elements, such as events marketing, product launches and brand activations, and how to communicate to the world through the means of events.”

By Emily Fitzgibbons

Following this, Brown Bear Events came to life.

“It was time to focus our passion, experience and expertise on creating our very own family-established events agency, specialising in bespoke private event design and management,” adds Charlie.

Fast forward a very successful five years, and the sisters can now say they have the ability to manage and organise events across the globe, with the main focus being on the UK, Europe and Middle Eastern market.

Charlie explains: “We’re known for our destination weddings, but our UK weddings are equally as popular. So, whether it be nuptials abroad or on UK soil, we have you covered. In the UK especially, we’re in high demand for private event planning.”

“usually busy organising everyone else’s perfect day, this is them at one of their own"

Of course, there have been some wellknown clients along the way, including Russian billionaires and royal families, but do they have any stand-outs?

“With the nature of the job and the location of the company, we are very lucky to have experienced some amazing places across the globe,” Gina explains, “from flying thirty-five performers from across the world to the Seychelles for a last-minute surprise 40th birthday party on a private beach, to a two-day Indian wedding in Marbella for 300 people, which included dressing eight different locations within the most limited time frame we have ever worked with.”

Eldest sibling Charlie now heads up the Middle Eastern side, whilst Gina predominantly looks after UK and European clients. But we wonder what their favourite events have been?

“That’s a very difficult question,” laughs Charlie, “every event is memorable for us, whether it’s a new challenge to overcome or an exciting new creative concept to accomplish. Every event we create is bespoke – starting with building a creative story alongside the client, which is then implemented throughout the event on the night; from the moment the guests arrive, to the very last firework at the end.”

But if they had to choose?

“Any event where we can work alongside clients that have an open mind and who like to get as creative as we do. We created a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party for a 21st, where guests entered down a rabbit hole and visited the bathroom through a maze of oversized hedges – it was amazing,” Gina recalls. “We also planned a ‘little princess’ christening, where guests entered through an enchanted forest, crossed a wooden bridge into a haunted forest, where they were greeted by the Wicked Witch at Snow White’s cottage and guided through a maze created like an underground mine, through a room of magic mirrors… and ended up at dinner! There was also an African wedding, where guests entered through a tunnel of large African grasses with hidden wildlife animations, animal sounds, blinking eyes and rainfall until they ended up inside an African tribalthemed camp.”

“Ultimately, charity events where guests have dined in circus tents, been raised up and down on trailers and are entertained by celebrity performances are our favourite,” smiles Charlie, “some have even raised over £250,000 for charities!”

Charlie concludes: “We often get asked what it’s like working with family… we were brought up in a family-run business and this has not only encouraged us to follow our dreams and passions, but has also allowed us to develop the same work ethics and morals as our parents and grandparents had within their successful past businesses. Alongside the benefits of us both excelling in different key areas, we focus on carrying these skills and mentalities throughout the Brown Bear Events team, which complements the overall running and creativity of the company, leading to our overall success.”

brownbearevents.net | @brownbearevents February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Rafael Amorim on Film We chat to the Brazilian born videographer about his passion for capturing those perfect moments Originally from Sao Paulo, Rafael, who also boasts an Italian citizenship, is now based in Manchester. His love for all things creative has been with him for years.

By Emily Fitzgibbons

“Back in Brazil, I used to work for one of the biggest film production companies as an assistant director and production coordinator,” says Rafael, “filmmaking is what I do, and storytelling is definitely one of the things I can do for my clients!”

So, after a successful career in South America, it took a big crash in the Brazilian economy around five years ago to spur the 37-year-old creative on to pack up and move to the UK to become an entrepreneur on British soil.

“After the economy crash, I became a freelancer in 2015,” says Rafael, “I then decided to make the big move to the UK

in 2016, and I haven’t looked back. The move has provided me with many opportunities and some brilliant memories!”

Costume Ball, theProfileClub’s The Greatest Show, and our very own Salutions Winter Wonderland Charity Ball back in November.

And like with many people in the industry, there’s a standout memory for Rafael:

Whether it be as an assistant director, runner, photographer or editor, Rafael can either join an ongoing project or can help you create one from scratch.

“I’ve shot a lot of great things in my life,” he says, “but a favourite, fresh memory of mine was at a recent wedding in Ibiza.

I shot it with my partner by my side. The place was stunning – the view and the atmosphere of being in Ibiza over the summer was unreal. Everyone was so happy, and that’s what we aim to do – capture people’s happiness and memories.

Most importantly, the feedback from the couple after watching their video was heart-warming… let’s just say there were tears of happiness!”

Last year, Rafael worked on some big hitting projects, such as the 2019 Maggie’s

From video books, editing and content creation to podcasts, filming and production, his skillset is wide and varied and his experience is second to none.

But most of all? The adoration for his job shines through.

“I love working with audio-visual production, it's something that I live and breathe every day. In my opinion it’s not a job, it’s a lifestyle.”

Rafael is available for private, corporate and commercial events, contact hello@rafaelamorim.uk or visit rafaelamorim.uk 20

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Oh, what a night!

Photography Rafael Amorim

Once again, the Salutions Winter Wonderland Charity Ball was a huge success, raising muchneeded funds for Maggie’s Manchester and Papyrus Thank you to everyone who joined us, to our valuable volunteers and to all of the staff at The Midland Manchester. Huge thanks also to Darren Proctor for his persuasive auctioneering skills and Sing Out Gospel Choir and Smooth Edge for keeping us entertained throughout the evening. A special thank you to everyone who donated raffle or auction prizes, including M&S for their extreme generosity, and to our sponsors Nu-Form Fire UK, Turkish Airlines, VST Enterprises, Pabla+Pabla and Everything Genetic – we couldn’t do this without you.

If you would like to buy a ticket, a table or sponsor this year’s ball at The Edwardian Manchester on November 28th, email salim@salutions.co.uk or call 0161 445 2883.

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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SPACEAP: Building on a passion for creativity & sustainability We meet Sonia Pabla-Thomas, founder of Space Architecture + Planning (SPACEAP), on her practice’s 10-year anniversary to discover more about its increasing success in creating contemporary, elegant and sustainable architecture for both the residential and commercial market New Space Sonia is sat inside her newly refurbished Didsbury studio, cockapoo Snoop by her side (“he’s like my shadow”). Her warm, open and instantly engaging character is at odds with the characteristically austere atmosphere of your typical global architectural firm. SPACEAP is responsible for bringing projects to life in many sectors across the globe and the practice’s first home (over a decade ago) was coincidently an office shared with Didsbury Magazine.

By Lisa Symonds | Photography Mat Wright Photography

“Back then, one of our first residential projects was a converted and extended derelict 19th-century farm house in a Chorlton conservation area,” reveals Sonia, “which perfectly showcased the SPACEAP vision – combining modernism with the period style of the existing villa, underpinned with renewable technology, including photovoltaics and solar thermal panels, underfloor heating, high-efficiency glazing, a heat-recovery system and a grass roof.”

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The finished house was a bold, contemporary project that set a precedent in the local area, which SPACEAP have continued to build upon since. The build received lots of press attention; the Manchester Evening News published an article about it and called it ‘The house that stops the traffic’.

By working out of the building, SPACEAP’S clients could see first-hand the endless possibilities the practice was capable of.

“It’s still one of my favourite buildings!” says Sonia.

Space to thrive The practice has recently relocated; leaving their former Chorlton base and returning to Didsbury – The Old Town Hall on Lapwing Lane to be precise. Expansion is mainly due to success in the residential

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

market (for which SPACEAP are best known), in particular, extensions, full refurbishments, new-build projects, interiors and landscape in South Manchester.

It has many repeat clients, who have enjoyed the process so much that they have commissioned SPACEAP to develop further properties, and most of the practice’s new work is from referrals.

Words of fatherly wisdom Sonia worked with John McAslan + Partners in London and was an associate at the large commercial practice Sheppard Robson in Manchester before forming SPACEAP just over 10 years ago. During her time at McAslan, she was project architect for the award-winning Creative Arts Building in Altrincham South Trafford College. Sonia’s large-practice background means she’s as comfortable working on the large-scale, multi-millionpound projects as she is a family home.

We wondered where Sonia’s passion for design came from?

“I really loved art but coming from a family of lawyers (maternal side) and engineers and architects (paternal side), my father wanted me to do something vocational. He believed it would always be far more challenging for me as a woman in a male-dominated world and that a careerfocussed degree would give me a head start. So, based on his advice and at the last minute, I chose to study architecture at uni rather than fine art.

“My father always told me I could do anything. At the end of the second part of my studies, he had a stroke. The only time he moved in hospital was when I showed him my term paper. He died the day I told him I’d passed. We had a special relationship, I am where I am – doing the best job in the world – through his nurturing and guidance.”

Inspired by nature On an international scale, SPACEAP has been fortunate to have collaborated on some phenomenal projects alongside a series of inspiring teams.

“We have been working with Green School Bali (with John and Elora Hardy – pioneers of ‘magical spaces, inspired by nature’) to roll out a series of Global Green Schools to develop their global identity,” says Sonia. “To date, and as part of the Green School international design team, we have developed the Concept Design along with Atelier One for Green Schools in New Zealand and South Africa.

“Our practice is committed to design excellence and creating environments inspired by nature. We take the knowledge gained from Green School and apply it to

projects closer to home. Issues such as climate change mean it is critical to design responsibly and maintain a sustainable environment.

“We have continued to work collaboratively with Elora Hardy and have collaborated on a further two hotels for the Potato Head Group.”

SPACEAP has also collaborated with the late Ingo Maurer and Atelier One to produce the Broken Egg auditorium in Inhotim, Brazil.

Space invaders Closer to home, Sonia’s seven-strong team are currently working on houses, bars, restaurants, mill and barn conversions and new-build office buildings.

“Nowadays, homeowners, particularly young professionals, have a design-led eye for development,” explains Sonia.

“Programmes such as Grand Designs and platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram have really changed the way the average homeowner thinks, and good design is at their fingertips. This is great news for us as architects – working with clients who

demand great design. We have helped so many clients in south Manchester realise their dream homes even if they haven’t built before.”

Indeed, any fears are soon allayed when they touch base with SPACEAP: “From planning to interiors, we tailormake a scope of services; everything is geared towards clients’ needs and budget, and there is no obligation. Developing a bond between client and architect is important, because these projects go on for at least a year, sometimes more, it needs to be a headache-free, exciting journey!”

Complete house refurbishment and extension in Wilmslow.

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Space – the next frontier Sonia reveals that the practice has seen a distinct upturn in homeowners deciding to revamp rather than sell: “With house prices in Didsbury having increased by 39.72 % over the past decade, and with soaring house prices in South Manchester – the average detached house is £592k and stamp duty at 5% – many of our clients are turning to extending and refurbishing their properties to create their dream homes rather than moving.”

Sonia explains how refreshing it is that the Government is providing tax relief to enable more firms to research and develop more complex projects that otherwise would be too costly to explore for a small practice. She too welcomes the increased size limits for extensions (under permitted development) that have now been made permanent by the Government.

“Many of our projects are no longer subject to lengthy periods in planning, which is a welcome relief when time is of the essence.”

“A lot of women drop out of the industry after having children,” she reveals with regret.

Sonia and her husband Neil Thomas MBE (founder and director of Atelier One) have three daughters – Grace (13), Eva (12) and Darcie (9) – and, she beams proudly, each of them wants to have a career in architecture!

“SPACEAP converted the basement at our children’s primary school (Chorlton C of E) into an arts-base space on a notfor-profit basis,” adds Sonia. “The Arts Base increased the teaching area of the school by 25% by ingeniously converting a damp, poorly ventilated, badly lit, underused basement into a workable space. Cutting the ribbon was the proudest moment.”

The practice has just received planning approval to erect a new Early Years

Building on the site for the school and also sponsors its netball team.

A Space for everyone “We want everyone from homeowners to developers to drop in, have a drink… our door is always open,” smiles Sonia.

“We want to create a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all our clients. Once projects are finished, lots of clients want to do it all over again! Design needn’t be a headache and we’re here to wear lots of hats – from designer to therapist – to help you enjoy it!”

SPACEAP’s new studio is based in the heart of West Didsbury, so if you have any questions or need to speak with an architect about your next project, give them a call or arrange an appointment with Sonia or one of the team of architects on the numbers below or visit the website www.spaceap.com

Family matters Of life inside the SPACEAP office, Sonia says: “I’ve worked in the corporate world.

There’s a lot of expectation not to leave the office and to work until midnight.

It’s unnecessary and outdated. A strong work-life balance is far more effective and gets the best out of people. We are very much a family here.”

As a mum of three, she also supports flexible working.

Are you looking to start your own Grand Design and need advice from an architect? The practice is holding a Saturday Drop-In for all Didsbury Magazine readers on February 29th between 10am-2pm. Call the office on 0161 7132718 and quote LOVESPACE to book your free consultation.

SPACE | ARCHITECTURE+PLANNING The Studio, The Old Town Hall, Lapwing Lane, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2NR 0161 713 2718 | 0781 000 8333 | info@spaceap.com _spacearchitecture 28

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

SPACE Architecture+Planning

@_SPACEAP

Jardin Floral Print Serving Set Vera Wang @ Wedgwood £144 Available at Selfridges

PAX White Floral Patterned Wardrobe £390 IKEA

Monsoon Fleur 16-Piece Dinner Set £182.99 Denby Available at Very

Delft Flower Throw Noir £225 Designers Guild Online only at harveynichols.com

Watercolour Floral TENCEL™ Blend Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set £40-£70 Next

Fabulously Floral

By Emily Fitzgibbons

With both National Plant a Flower Day (March 12th) and spring just around the corner, incorporate beautiful blooms into your home

Sunny Flowers Cushion £29.95 Available at mintandmay.co.uk 30

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Spink & Edgar Crawford Wing Chair £1295 Arighi Bianchi | Available at arighibianchi.co.uk

Grow your own

STYLE Alcohol. A misunderstood source of vitamins. Who knew?

By Catherine Saunders. Read more at www.ladymuck.style Arriving home last Friday, after a week of gruelling meetings in London, all I wanted was to get into my PJs, grab the HäagenDazs and curl up with Netflix, safe in the knowledge that Lord Muck was at the gym.

Imagine my surprise, then, to be welcomed home with a very loud, drunken refrain of ‘beer… beer… glorious beer…’ coming from his man-cave. Peering nervously in, I spied his Lordship and Lord Atwood sprawled across the sofas, a mountain of empty beer bottles at their feet, weirdlooking lab equipment on the pool table and some sad looking plant rhizomes in the corner.

Spotting me out of his one eye still capable of focusing, Lord Muck staggered towards me, waving a newspaper, slurring something unintelligible. Grumpily grabbing it from his excited paws, I spotted the headline and instantly understood the carnage before me: ‘STRONG BEERS GOOD FOR YOU. FACT.’ Apparently, some scientist had discovered that strong Belgian beers, which are fermented twice, actually contain as many gut friendly probiotics as some organic bio-yoghurts; his research claiming that

when a person drinks one of these strong beers, they actually reinforce their intestinal army of microscopic defenders with millions of these pathogen-busting booze microbes.

So, clearly their Lordships had decided to ditch their New Year resolution to hit the gym three times a week and instead, had busied themselves setting up their own microbrewery. From the look of things, they’d spent a fortune on equipment, tasked Lord Atwood with finally putting his biochem degree to good use and spent a bacchian day taste testing but had seemingly forgotten that planting the hops rhizomes was a rather crucial part of their madcap scheme.

Leaving them to sleep it off, I headed off to research the hop-growing. Didn’t take me long to discover that hops can indeed be grown easily by amateurs right here in the UK, as our mixture of warm, wet summers and cool winters make British hops earthy and especially good for flavouring traditional beers like stouts, bitters and porters.

Hop plants can be grown in large pots placed three feet apart; they prefer deep, well-drained loams, so use well-mulched

soil or high-quality compost and rotted manure to give them the best start. Plant them in the sunniest spot you can find, and each plant should reward you by flavouring up to 20 and 30 gallons of beer. Vertical space is the key, as even the dwarf varieties grow to at least eight feet, whilst commercial varieties to around 20 feet. So, make a tepeelike structure from three bamboo canes for the hops to grow up. UK supplier Willingham Nurseries (willingham-nurseries.co.uk) stocks many varieties, and Prima Donna (First Gold) is a good dwarf variety for beginners, and if you have room, a commercial variety like Fuggles is a good choice. Hop plants can be planted in spring, with the plants reaching their full height by summer, when they will sprout feathery buds that look a little like mini horse chestnut cases. After a few weeks, these will grow into flowers and ‘cones’ will be ready for harvesting around September and as hops are perennial plants, they will return year after year. Result. For the actual brewing process, head to brewuk.co.uk Right. Must dash. Just heard his Lordship hunting for more Belgian beer to taste test…

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Quartz Crystal Snowglobe £15 John Lewis & Partners

Large Selenite Votive Candle Holder £146 Available at artisanti.com

Crazy About Crystals The cool crystal trend boomed in late 2019, and in 2020, it continues to soar

Pink Quartz Side Table £262 Available at audenza.com

Taormina Table Lamp French Gold C/W Ivory Faux-Silk Shade £156 Available at darlighting.co.uk

Set of Four Meso Blue Agate Coasters £57 Available at artisanti.com

Green Dutchbone Gem Candle Holder £34 Available at cuckooland.com

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

By Emily Fitzgibbons

Round Mirror 40cm Diameter with Rose Quartz Hanger Disk £85 Available at bombayduck.com

Creed Aventus Eau De Parfum £185 Selfridges

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him The perfect present to show your love for him

GPO Chesterton DAB Record Player with Cassette and USB £189 Available at gporetro.com

Simple Black Watch £275 Available at objest.com

Bumblebee Cufflinks £59.95 Available at annabeljames.co.uk

By Emily Fitzgibbons

Carmel Pink Embroidered Logo Slim Fit Single Cuff Shirt £85 Polo Ralph Lauren | Available at Selfridges

Blue Secret Love Dress Socks £12.75 Available at heating-and-plumbing.com

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Gentlemen's Hardware Portable BBQ £80 Available at uk.wildandwolf.com

Lydia Coral-Soft Beige Bag £65 Hotter

Twig Heart Pendant £65 Available at lucysylvester.co.uk

Rose Gold Arrow Drop Earrings £166.50 Available at drajee.com Collagin - Gin with Added Collagen £34.95 Available at prezzybox.com

Fuzzy Duck Pink Gin Fizz Heart Gift Set £25 Baylis & Harding

Aubade Set Bra £95, Brief £59 Available at Figleaves.com

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her Shower her with all things lovely on February 14th Yankee Candle Flowers and Chocolate Bouquet £36.95 Available at funkyhampers.com San Shi Amethyst Stud Earrings £65 Available at tsaixtsai.com

Skin Show V2 Mini MatteTrance Lipstick Trio £33 Pat McGrath Labs Available at Selfridges February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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THE SHOWCASE MANCHESTER 2020

AN INSPIRATIONAL WEDDING SHOWCASE SUNDAY 23RD FEBRUARY 2020, 11.00AM - 6.00PM

Hilton Manchester Deansgate Hotel, 303 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LQ

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Cool Crochet A 2020 trend that’s not just for your Grandma...

Cream Crochet Shift Dress £78 Little Mistress Available at Very

Colane Crochet-Trim Wool, Silk and Cotton-Blend Jumper £185 Sandro | Available at Selfridges

By Emily Fitzgibbons

Moxa Cream Crochet-Knit Jumper £205 Joie | Available at Harvey Nichols

Crochet Cardigan SS20 £359 Marc Cain February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Sparkling Silver Earrings £213 Available at carolinstone.com Be Here Now Blouse £270 Twenty-Seven Names twentysevennames.co.nz

Mindy Satin-Crepe Dress £145 Ghost | Available at Selfridges

Butterflies Mini Shoulder Bag £26.50 Available at sophieallport.com

Feeling Blue

By Emily Fitzgibbons

There’s nothing to feel down about when wearing cool blue hues

Vintage Indigo Scarf £65 Available at lolaandmawu.com

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Navy Forever Comfort Point Court Shoes £35 Next

Georgina Blue Wool-blend Trousers £335 Diane Von Furstenberg Available at Harvey Nichols

Jan’s smart move In July 2019, Jan Iceton, a former business development director and investor was appointed Chair of Smart Works Greater Manchester

By Fay Wertheimer

Based in Stockport since 2015, this was the charity’s second of eight UK-wide branches helping disadvantaged, often vulnerable, unemployed women aged 16 to 70 years old prepare for job interviews. Boasting a 70%+ success rate, Smart Works Greater Manchester is life-changing for at least 380 women annually and since opening, has guided over 1,000 women into employment.

The need Interviews are scary enough if you’re already working. But after long-term unemployment, illness, imprisonment or umpteen rejections, the prospect is nervewracking. What to wear? What to say? How to sit? How to hide the lack of confidence?

Since 2013, Smart Works – the brainchild of Lady Juliet Hughes-Hallet – has provided jobless females with a styling service that offers interview-appropriate clothing and interview coaching. This has benefitted some who, despite possessing a relevant and up-to-date CV, might previously have been refused a post. Interestingly, the minority whose first interview is unsuccessful nonetheless regard their Smart Works’ experience as positive.

Jan says, “98% of these clients feel assured and confident of success at their next interview and that the desired job will be soon be theirs.”

The process Full-time Business Manager Fiona Gunnion organises 49 highly trained volunteers, whose past or current experience in fashion and retail or recruitment and HR is crucial.

Dedication is such that one volunteer even spends her one day off at Smart Works.

Jan continues: “We work with over 50 referral partners.

They range from Job Centre Plus, care leaver services, councils, housing associations and HM Prison Service to charities such as The Prince's Trust and women’s refuges. Our one-to-one service entails two one-hour sessions. The stylists gauge each woman’s requirements for work clothes, which she will select and take home. The second hour is spent training and improving interview techniques. Any woman securing her job returns for her second dressing.

Obviously, she can’t wear the same outfit every day and payday may be weeks away.

So, she can choose another five to seven items to pad out her working wardrobe.

Individual donors coupled with our amazing retail partners, including John Lewis, M&S, Whistles, Burberry, Evans and Hobbs, give us the lovely suits, pants, skirts, dresses, accessories and tote bags, which our stylists carefully tissue-wrap once clients have made their choice.”

Meaningful The cause rings true. The Duchess of Sussex’s endorsement of Smart Works in January kick-started media attention. In 2019, Caroline Roberts-Cherry, MD of Saffron Cherry TV production company, and television broadcaster Michelle Ackerley became local ambassadors.

Spin for Smart Works and celebrate International Women’s Day Do you fancy a new year challenge? Help Smart Works Greater Manchester support even more women and get 2020 off to a flying start by registering your interest for our annual Spin for Smart Works fundraising event! Teams of five will be spinning and cycling 500 miles in the week leading up to International Woman’s Day (Sunday 8th March) to raise the essential funds they need to support women at a crucial moment in their lives.

Jan concludes: “Its costs around £2,000 a week to keep our doors open and Spin for Smart Works is our major 2020 fundraising event. Please pedal for a purpose and join our regional effort to make 2020 our 5th and best year yet.”

More information can be found at smartworks.org.uk/spin-smart-works or by emailing greatermanchester@smartworks.org.uk Smart Works 0161 974 0669 / Open weekdays from 10am-4pm 65-81, St Petersgate, Stockport SK1 1DS February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Stand out in style this spring The arrival of new spring season deliveries at Si Belle® has turned thoughts towards promises of sun-filled days, of warmth, of light and life Spring is one of Si Belle®’s favourite times of year, it brings with it a sense of rejuvenation, which colours the world with hope and possibilities. Spring clothes should exhibit vitality and vibrancy and should lift the spirits. Si Belle® hopes to achieve this with a collection offering pieces – some classic, some fresh and surprising – for all your needs and moods.

With an array of different silhouettes and colour palettes – ranging from soft earthy tones to bold, dynamic pops of colour – these brands unite in delivering a satisfying and sophisticated aesthetic. They allow Si Belle® to offer aspirational style and simultaneously, the means of attaining it.

Search for and find your style at Si Belle®.

The timeless classic is a long-standing and unselfconscious approach to sustainability.

Si Belle® has always tried to choose pieces which can form part of a long-lasting capsule wardrobe, coordinating with pieces from previous collections, allowing a seamless transition between seasons.

MARC CAIN SPORTS

Spring/Summer 2020 at Si Belle® will see collections from some of the world’s best designers – beautiful everyday staples interspersed with thought-provoking and stand-out pieces. You can expect to find watercolour prints, floaty florals and summertime stripes sitting alongside modern takes on classically simple button-down shirts, stylishly relaxed suiting and, of course, irresistibly feminine summer dresses. Mix tailoring and silks with denims for lunch with friends, dress up for a garden party or corporate presentation – you know what you want, now it’s time to explore!

HALE BOB

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

New brands such as Ramy Brook, Bella Dahl, Kobi Halperin, Fabiana Filippi and Le Tricot Perugia join the ranks of established favourites, including Elie Tahari, Temperley London, Tory Burch, Roland Mouret, Hale Bob and Marc Cain.

KOBI HALPERIN

Si Belle® has always believed that fashion should be a means of celebrating individuality, a way to express one’s personality with all its overt and covert elements: hidden mystery, public declarations, enigmatic and playful deceptions, contradictions, hope and regret, sadness and delight. Si Belle® encourages clients to embrace their femininity in all of its unique incarnations and delights in offering a myriad of looks to match this diversity.

Sibelle.co.uk

Si Belle

FUNKY, FEMININE & VERSATILE

COLLECTIONS INCLUDE: MARC CAIN TEMPERLEY LONDON HALE BOB RAMY BROOK MELISSA ODABASH D.EXTERIOR NICOLE MILLER ELIE TAHARI ROKSANDA TORY BURCH KOBI HALPERIN ROLAND MOURET FABIANA FILIPPI BELLA DAHL LE TRICOT PERUGIA

www.sibelle.co.uk 50A HIGH STREET, TARPORLEY, CHESHIRE CW6 0AG Tel. 01829 733251, info@sibelle.co.uk www.facebook.com/si.belle.tarporley

OPENING HOURS: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5.30pm Other times by appointment

®

From Dishoom with Love Feeling like we’d stepped into downtown Mumbai, Dishoom's Manchester café did not disappoint us. With an all-day menu that offers comforting dishes from Bombay and beyond, we were excited to get stuck in

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employ and serve people from all walks of life, at its events, and through charity (donating a meal for every meal – 8 million meals so far).

The background Dishoom pays loving homage to the Irani cafés that were once part of the fabric of life in Bombay. These cafés broke down barriers by bringing people together over food and drink. They were the first places in Bombay where people from all walks of life shared tables, rubbed shoulders and broke bread together.

Like the old Irani cafés, Dishoom breaks down barriers: in its restaurants, which

Each Dishoom café tells a unique story.

The story and design of Dishoom Manchester is inspired by it’s unique and impressive location in Manchester Hall, a 1920s Grade II listed building, originally used as a Freemasons’ Hall.

The food Dishoom is open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon chai, dinner and late tipples, and we excitedly settled in after a hard day’s work for what we hoped would be a hearty meal full of flavour. We certainly weren’t let down.

We started with three of our favourites okra fries, fiery fried green chillies (do not confuse the two!), and two plates of

chilli chicken (crispy garlic, ginger, soy and chilli coated chicken), a dish so popular it’s now a cafe staple.

Next out was Prawn Koliwada, each one charred slightly at the edges, simple but oh so juicy and tasty - so much so, we actually ordered more!

A succulent Chicken Berry Britannia (a slow-cooked, layered and aromatic biryani) was shared between us, accompanied by smoky, grilled Gunpowder Potatoes tossed with butter, herbs and seeds, and a garlic naan complete with coriander sprinkle.

As dishes are made to be passed around, shared and adored, Dishoom’s lively hubbub creates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy food with family and friends.

Dishoom take reservations for groups of any size before 5.45pm, and after 5.45pm, for groups of six or more. Walk-ins are always welcome.

Dishoom: From Bombay with Love – a cookery book and highly subjective guide to Bombay. Available in all good bookstores and at all Dishoom restaurants.

Dishoom / 32 Bridge Street / Manchester M3 3BT dishoom.com / 0161 537 3737 February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Top

5 places to eat

The team at Salutions HQ have been out and about, sourcing the best places to eat and drink. Well, someone has to do it! Here’s our shortlist…

Bill’s / MANChESTER

Peter Street kitchen /

Based in swanky Spinningfields, versatile Bill’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. We enjoyed a yummy evening meal, starting with delicious mini Cumberland sausages for the table. Starters of crispy calamari and chicken and sesame dumplings were on point, and two sirloin steaks, with sides of macaroni cheese and longstem broccoli, were cooked perfectly. Indulgent desserts of warm banoffee doughnuts and rhubarb and apple crumble complete with both custard AND ice-cream, were so good, we couldn’t stop eating – despite our expanding waistline! A home-from-home restaurant with on-trend botanical decor. 0161 834 2756

MANChESTER

Recently awarded the prestigious accolade of Best Luxury Restaurant in the UK, we were thrilled to head down to Peter Street Kitchen and try their exquisite selection of contemporary Japanese and Mexican cuisine. We started with lemon butter and chilli sea salt edamame followed by a range of small plates; tiger prawn tempura with wasabi, seared beef tataki with truffle ponzu, and veggie chicken tempura.

We simply had to try the famous Japanese flat tacos – one salmon sashimi with wasabi sour cream and one sea bass sashimi with dried miso. A must visit.

0161 835 8941

BLVD / MANChESTER

With venues in Croatia, LA and Ibiza, it was only a matter of time before BLVD arrived in Manchester. Combining Mexican and Japanese cuisines, with a colourful cocktail menu, visitors are set for a high-end experience.

We grazed on won ton crisps, sweet ogura and green tea loaf, vegetable tempura and chicken bang tang before mains of crispy yet soft lobster tacos and sticky seitan ribs (hats off here for this exceptional veggie dish).

Genuinely the home of one of Manchester’s most Instagrammable menus.

07539 733420 44

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse / STOCkPORT

Marco Pierre White’s new steakhouse resides in Bredbury Hall Hotel, and the dining destination is classy from the off – boasting beautiful, heavy glassware, crockery and cutlery. Whilst we drank porn star martinis (so good we needed two!), our starters arrived; crispy fried calamari and gooey, oozy baked French camembert. Then, two 8oz, grilled sirloin steaks, one with a ‘breakfast garnish’ of streaky bacon, mushroom and egg. Both were accompanied by crispy onion rings, rich buttered leaf spinach and creamed cabbage with bacon. To finish, we had Mr Coulson’s sticky toffee pudding with hot butterscotch sauce – which was most certainly the star of the show! 0161 430 7421

The Refuge / MANChESTER

The Refuge serves dishes perfect for sharing using British ingredients with a global influence. As first-timers, we found both host Robbie and our server to be warm and knowledgeable. We started with mutabal (like baba ghanoush) and flatbreads. The plates come as and when they’re ready, and Gloucester Old Spot pork belly, salt cod croquettes and burrata came first, followed by melt-in-themouth, 6oz steaks, broccoli and triple-cooked bravas potatoes. We ended with chocolate fondue and sweet things to dip. The Refuge encourages you to ‘come as you are’ – so, we did. And we will definitely be going again. 0161 233 5151

Stylish sophistication at The Belsfield Hotel We took a winter weekend trip to Laura Ashley’s luxurious retreat in the Lakes

The hotel Directly overlooking Bowness’ ‘Belle Isle’, the impressive hotel boasts views of a shimmering Lake Windermere, wild-grass moors and six acres of landscaped gardens.

It’s noticeable, imposing and is definitely a talking point throughout Windermere.

By Emily Fitzgibbons

Inside, the decor is typically Laura Ashley, with neutral and pastel tones, classic furniture pieces and the brand’s famous wallpaper prints. We stayed in a spectacular suite, which was beautiful, peaceful and offered the tranquillity of Lake Windermere from the comfort of the room. The bed?

Well, that was like sleeping on a cloud.

And if you love a nice bath, you can enjoy a bubbly soak whilst looking out of the window onto the vast views of the lake.

Guests are greeted by a little ‘Ashley’ bunny, which they are encouraged to take home and on all their adventures, a sweet thought, especially if travelling with children. There’s also free Wi-Fi, so you can log on (if necessary) in front of

uninterrupted picturesque views from the desk or window seat.

The Belsfield’s rooms offer luxurious sophistication and style to the most discerning of hotel guests.

The food On our first night, we dined in The Brasserie, which serves classic British dishes and has a more relaxed feel than the Belsfield Restaurant, which we thought we’d save for our last night. It’s spacious, well-decorated and the food isn’t half bad either. We started with a creamy mushroom soup of the day, and roast pork belly, perfect winter warmers, followed by harissa lamb rump served perfectly pink, and juicy garlic and tarragon chicken breast paired well with wild mushrooms and dauphinoise potato.

The Belsfield Restaurant gives diners the ultimate fine dining experience with AA Rosette-awarded cuisine. The menu has been carefully curated and offers a fusion of British and continental fare using local Cumbrian produce wherever possible.

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We tucked into an amuse-bouche of mushroom velouté (not too dissimilar to the mushroom soup from night one, but we enjoyed it, so couldn’t complain!) and starters of succulent smoked chicken breast with avocado mousse, fig and asparagus. The cod with smoked bacon, broccoli, potatoes and chicken reduction was to die for – fresh and flavoursome, as was the duo of beef. We finished with a sweet and savoury offering; a cheese board complemented by runny truffle honey, grapes, quince and sourdough crispbreads, and to satisfy our sweet tooth, a peanut butter parfait with brittle and malted banana ice-cream.

Breakfast each morning is held in The Belsfield and gave us a clear view of the crisp winter morning’s dewy grass and sparkling lake. The food was served buffet style, with cold and hot options, but there’s a menu too for table service. Hats off to the chef for the fabulously fried bread, which managed to be light and airy whilst remaining moreish.

The area It’s safe to say you can happily escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a trip to the Lake District. The clean country air hits you with abundance and instantly transports you away from your daily routine. Windermere is home to England's largest lake – it's a whopping 10.5 miles long – and is separate from Bowness-onWindermere, which is a tourist honeypot along the shoreline of the lake and where The Belsfield Hotel is located. Here, you can find and the main jetties for cruise boats, water sports and walking trails.

Cruise is a 45-minute circular cruise and allows tourists to truly take in the islands of Windermere. Sights include boats, wildlife, islands, historical buildings and, of course, a look at Millionaire’s Row, a collection of dream houses that can only be seen from the lake. restaurants and a cinema. Nestled in the valley between various fells, it's the start and end point for many classic walks.

Windermere and the surrounding areas are arguably the most famous and popular areas in the whole of the Lake District.

There are a range of activities, attractions, places of interest and things to do around the lake… and on it!

The activities •

World of Beatrix Potter

A short walk away from The Belsfield is the World of Beatrix Potter, where the famous tales are brought to life in three dimensions. An indoor recreation of the Lakeland countryside, complete with sights, sounds and even smells.

•

Lakes Aquarium

This award-winning attraction has the UK's largest collection of freshwater fish.

Windermere Lake Cruises

We decided to head out on one of the Lake District’s most popular attractions (they sail every day except Christmas Day!) – the Windermere Lake Cruise and, handily for us, the starting point could be found right at the foot of The Belsfield. The Islands

Photography Grace Cartwright

In Windermere, there are cute cake and confectionary shops, tiny tasteful tea rooms and roads leading to country walks galore. Take a trip to nearby Ambleside for a bustling town full of outdoor equipment shops, bookshops, gift shops, cafes,

•

So, would we recommend?

The Belsfield has clearly considered all the finer details and elegant finishing touches, and it’s fair to say this one of the best Lake District hotels we’ve ever stayed in.

The Belsfield / Kendal Road / Bowness-on-Windermere / Cumbria LA23 3EL 0153 944 2448 / belsfield@lauraashleyhotels.com lauraashleyhotels.com/hotels/the-belsfield February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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5 romantic resorts

Exploring the world is a fantastic thing and travelling with the person you love is the best way to take a break from everyday life and rediscover your passion. We bring you the top five most romantic resorts around the world…

1. The Datai Langkawi, Malaysia

Nestled in the heart of an ancient virgin rainforest on the enchanting island of Langkawi, the legendary The Datai Langkawi immerses couples in the natural sights and sounds of the unique surrounding environment.

Secluded villas are set on meandering paths down to a private beach, Datai Bay – named one of the top ten beaches in the world by National Geographic. A host of captivating experiences are bound to keep all entertained, from late night excursions into the 10-million-year-old rainforest with famed resident naturalist Irshad Mobarak, to indulgent treatments at the Datai Spa inspired by ancient healing traditions and philosophies of the Malay culture. Visit thedatai.com

2. haritha Villas + Spa, Sri Lanka

An all-villa, adult-only Ayurvedic haven of go-the-extra-mile bespoke luxury, the newly opened Haritha Villas + Spa is an idyllic retreat situated on a forested hilltop estate minutes from Hikkaduwa Beach in southern Sri Lanka. Each of the nine exquisite villas is attended by one of the handpicked team of Villa Masters, uniquely attuned to delivering the finest tailor-made experiences. Off-menu, farm-to-table dining can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere; while the two storey Jungle Spa serves up polished pampering.

Visit harithavillas.com

4. Chiva-Som, hua hin, Thailand

Acclaimed international health resort Chiva-Som evokes a real sense of privacy, luxury and exclusivity and offers a holistic approach to wellbeing in a beautiful secluded and timeless world of its own. Set within lush tropical gardens on the coast of Hua Hin, the award-winning luxury retreat is perfect for couples who want to be pampered and begin their journey to wellness together safe in the hands of the world’s leading practitioners.

Visit chivasom.com

3. The Nautilus Maldives

An immaculate new Maldivian masterpiece, The Nautilus offers couples a bespoke tropical island escape in unparalleled luxury. Located in the spectacular UNESCO biosphere reserve of Baa Atoll, the bohemian hideaway celebrates freedom and individuality and encourages couples to be themselves and shape their own personal journey. A tranquil overwater spa, a liveried fleet of yachts and a seaplane, beautiful boho-luxe interiors and a breath-taking house reef offer that quintessential Maldives experience at the highest level, without need for gimmicks.

Visit thenautilusmaldives.com

5. Boutique hotel Alhambra, Lošinj, Croatia

On the corner of Croatia’s picturesque Čikat Bay on the relatively undiscovered island of Lošinj, where the smell of ancient pines is intoxicating, lies the luxurious Boutique Hotel Alhambra. Housed in an Austro-Hungarian villa built in 1912 in Art Nouveau style, couples can enjoy the ultimate Mediterranean hideaway with world-class dining at the Alfred Keller Restaurant and indulgent treatments at the hotel’s Cube Spa, all inspired by the island’s rich, natural wealth of aromatic and healing herbs.

Visit losinj-hotels.com February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Vineyard Stays Test your taste buds on some of England’s finest wines; with more than 200 wine producers on British soil, there are plenty to choose from.

Jill Nash shares her top three grape-themed escapes

Secret Valley, Somerset Secret Valley is sat in the fertile hilly landscape of Quantock Hills, an authentic 400-acre organic farm. Couples who enjoy a spot of cool camping will love the tranquillity of this peaceful spot.

On arrival, you’ll be given a helpful welcome pack and if you forget anything, fear not, the evening buggy will drive around between 5-6 pm, stocking you up with wine, coal for your fire, cider and marshmallows. Each yurt, wigwam or shepherd’s hut is thoughtfully furnished with cosy blankets and mood lighting, there’s a fully equipped kitchen for making

The Vineyard Hotel, Berkshire Home to Taittinger UK Sommelier of the Year 2019, and six other sommeliers from around the world, the five-star Vineyard 50

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

a homemade meal too. If you fancy a spa treatment, head to the natural pamper pod, where you can indulge in a 60-minute, full-body massage or a Thai foot massage to stretch out those tired, lower legs.

your Scandinavian wigwam, fire up your hot tub, spark up the fire pit, pour yourselves another glass and watch the sunset over the rolling hills. Sounds clichéd? Yes, but it hits the romantic button.

Quantock receives fewer visitors than neighbouring Dartmoor, making the area ideal for bikers, hikers and those in search of deserted trails. Next door to Secret Valley, there’s a separate business Black Rock Outdoors, an activity centre where you can test your nerve on the high ropes course or bond over water zorbing. It’s ideal for couples seeking peace, nature and a spot of outdoorsy adventure.

Accommodation in a Hill View wigwam with a hot tub is from £145 for two guests per night. Includes two complimentary buckets of wood for the wood-fired hot tub and a bottle of Secret Valley wine, visit secret-valley.co.uk

Secret Valley has five acres of vineyard growing five varieties of grapes: Pinot Noir, Rondo, Orion, Solaris and Reichensteiner (producing their first crop in 2010), which can all be tasted by visitors. A rather informal DIY experience, and the cost is only £5 per person, it represents excellent value for money tasting some great homegrown grapes.

After sampling the wine, head back to

Hotel set in Newbury (an hour west from London) is a small, private property. The intimacy of this hotel means that all guests interact with a sommelier during their time here. While this hotel isn’t physically sat on a vineyard, it’s the perfect retreat for gourmands and wine enthusiasts. There are delectable wine dinners on offer and the impressive cellar is not called the ‘temple of wine’ without good reason.

They have a mouthwatering range of English wines from progressive vineyards, such as Camel Valley in Cornwall and Exton Park in Hampshire, which the sommeliers are very passionate about.

Entering the hotel is an astonishing visual feast. The strong scents of lavender and wild rosemary lead you into the doorway

littered by an enviable art collection and then, of course, the striking wine vault with 30,000 bins visible through the polished glass floor. The double doors of the cellar then lead into the Judgment of Paris room, where you can marvel at the famous artwork and join a wine discovery experience, costing from £30 per person.

The real highlight of a stay here is to re-live the controversial 1976 blind-tasting dinner and compare the French and Californian wines for yourself. Using specialised knowledge, the hotel has recreated a Judgement of Paris dinner package, costing £184 per person. Each course of the seven-strong dinner is paired with two wines – one Californian, one French – and there are a couple of

A 30-minute drive from Longueville Manor, you can find Jersey’s most celebrated wine estate, La Mare. You can take an expert-guided tour around the ancient orchards and go behind the scenes of the distillery, where you’ll enjoy a variety of exclusive La Mare wines and walk through the production kitchen watching chocolate making, prices from £10.50 per person.

Longueville Manor Hotel (& La Mare Wine Estate), Jersey Longueville Manor is sheer indulgence.

A sympathetically restored manor house offering inspiring menus, a boutique spa with a bubbling hot tub, scented wild woodland gardens perfect for long walks, and a world-class, wine-tasting cellar. It’s no wonder this place is one of Europe’s most popular getaways, and with Jersey becoming a notable spot for wine and gastronomy, the destination is a fine choice for a weekend escape.

Back at Longueville Manor, guests can find the state-of-the-art wine cellar stocking up to 4,000 bottles, which also works as a small museum holding a unique display of very rare and valuable wines. The cellar showcases a collection of Burgundy wines, ten vintages of the prestigious Domaine Ramonet Montrachet Grand Cru, including the very rare 1986. Arguably, it is one of the finest private wine collections in the world. A basic introduction to wine tasting, including a tour of the cellar and three whites and three reds from New Zealand, Chile and Portugal, lasts 1.5 hours and costs £50 per person.

an eye-watering £4,250 per bottle, or you can opt for a more modest local Sainte Marie wine from La Mare.

If you extend your stay, then set sail to one of the other Channel Islands or hop over to France on the hotel’s exclusive private luxury yacht – the Fizz Too. A full-day charter includes a seafood lunch with dessert, whilst a half day offers a selection of snacks. Both full and half days include Champagne and wine (of course). A steward service is included, with prices starting at £1,400; it’s not cheap, but worth every penny.

Accommodation is from £127 per room per night for bed and breakfast in a classic double room, visit longuevillemanor.com

Fine dining in the 15th-century Oak Room is an intimate experience, with only a few tables serving couples in a formal setting. The wine list stretches over 60 pages and is an epic novel in itself. If you wanted to splash out, the most expensive bottle from the list is a 1953 Bordeaux produced by Chateau Gruaud Larose at

completely blind tastings thrown in too, served in black glasses to allow you really to test your knowledge.

After a short introduction by the sommelier, and paper placemats to turn over after the end of each choice to see how you rate each wine, its incredible fun, but be careful that discussions with your partner don’t end up too heated!

Finally, The Vineyard Hotel has a splendid spa. The relaxing garden with cosy loungers is where you can wrap up in a robe and snooze off the effects of the wine tasting from the night before. If you fancy it, take a light afternoon tea or top up the alcohol levels with a bottle of champagne.

Accommodation and breakfast are priced from £255 based on two guests, visit the-vineyard.co.uk

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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An Iconic

R e s ort

on your doorstep Bask in the Mediterranean sun at Europe’s leading luxury resort.

Level up your game at our world-class tennis, golf and football facilities, relax and unwind at our award-winning Spa & Wellness Centre, or indulge in a wide selection of international cuisine, with over 15 bars and restaurants to choose from. Whether you are looking for a long weekend getaway or a family fun tri,, prepare yourself to enjoy a memorable holiday experience.

Accomodation at Hotel Príncipe Felipe 5*

Las Lomas Village 4* Apartments

2.000m2 award-winning Spa & Wellness Centre

Junior Club with fun activities

Football academies for children 4-14 years old

More than 15 bars & restaurants

Tennis and golf lessons & academies

Complimentary in-resort shuttle service

+34 968 11 56 51 · reserve@lamangaclub.com · lamangaclub.com

The Bridgewater Hall International Concert Series 19|20 Tenebrae A Hymn of Heavenly Beauty

Transatlantic Sessions Wednesday 5 February 7.30pm

Nigel Short conductor Tuesday 18 February 7.30pm Programme includes Allegri’s Miserere, plus popular works by Tallis, Tavener, Harris and Eric Whitacre.

Swedish Philharmonia Jaime Martin conductor Viktoria Mullova violin Monday 9 March 7.30pm Tchaikovsky The Tempest Prokofiev Violin Concerto No.2 Sibelius Symphony No.5

Box Office: 0161 907 9000 www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Box Office: 0161 907 9000 www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Re-live Germany’s Roaring 20s with

Max Raabe & Palast Orchester Friday 6 March 7.30pm

Box Office: 0161 907 9000 www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

The Ultimate Girls’ Night In for Four We’ve teamed up with the luxurious Mere Resort & Spa to give you the chance to win the ultimate ‘girls’ night in’. So, whether it’s to celebrate Valentine’s or Mother’s Day, or you just fancy a girly night for you and three mates, you’ll love this superb prize.

The prize • A cosy overnight stay (four people sharing two rooms) • In-room dining • Bottle of fizz in your room • Unlimited movies • Wind down with full use of our awardwinning health club & spa facilities • 10% discount off pre-booked spa treatments • Full English breakfast For your chance to win, simply email winner@salutions.co.uk telling us who you would take along. Place Mere in the subject field.

Terms and conditions Prize is available to redeem Sunday-Thursday, £15 per person in-room dining menu and subject to availability. Prize to be redeemed before December 31st, 2020. Use of spa facilities is from 2pm onwards on the day of arrival until 11am on the day of departure. Competition closes 14th April, 2020. For full terms and conditions, please visit salutions.co.uk

Lip Balm Trio Nude Collection. £19.95 from Oliver Bonas.

Mini Mani Rescue Kit Your new best friend by Leighton Denny. Handbag and travel friendly, packed in a stylish case. £15. Available from M&S.

NEW YEAR, NUDE YOU Leighton Denny Expert Nails £12 each. Available at M&S.

BEAUTY

SD Peachy Travel Bottles £7 from Primark

Icey Globes Upgrade your skincare routine with these Icey Globes. They will depuff your eyes, drain your face of toxins and help product penetration. Pop them in the fridge and use morning and evening! £44.99 from aestheticsbysarahjane.com/icey-globes

Wellness Set £35 From Oliver Bonas.

Sanda Aromatherapy Eye Pillows The gentle pressure of the pillow resting on your eyes can release facial tension and soothe tired eyes. £22 from sandafeelgood.com

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By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar

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4 Well being and full health checks with general blood test 4 Routine non-urgent appointments or same-day and evening consultations as you need 4 Covering Hale, Wilmslow, Didsbury and their surrounding areas

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0161 980 2626 | Info@ThePrivateGP.uk | www.TheNightDoctor.uk The Surgery, 96 Church Road, Gatley, Cheshire SK8 4NQ | The Practice, Hale, Cheshire WA15 February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

If you have a knee problem,

consult one of the UK’s leading knee specialists Knee problem? Do you have knee pain?

Have you injured your knee?

For quick effective treatment contact the kneedoc... it’s all you need to know Treatments available: • Arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery

• Ligament reconstruction (anterior cruciate ligament, ACL)

• Less invasive customised Knee Replacement Surgery and also Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery designed specifically to your knee from specialised scans, both potentially allowing shorter hospital stay & rehab with quicker return to activity.

• State of the art non-surgical arthritis treatments including hyaluronic acid injections and groundbreaking n-STRIDE injections.

Professor Jari now offers the latest technology “Robotic Assisted” Knee Replacement Surgery for improved outcomes using the MAKO Robot having previously performed the first case in the North West of England

The Knee Doc... it’s all you need to know Contact details: For further information or to book a consultation: Telephone: 0161 445 4988 | Email: Jen@thekneedoc.co.uk | www.thekneedoc.co.uk @therealkneedoc

Consultations available at: BMI Alexandra Hospital Cheadle | Ramsay Oaklands Hospital Salford | Spire Hale Clinic Spire Hospital Manchester, Didsbury | The Manchester Institute of Health and Performance The Wilmslow Hospital, 52 Alderley Road Professor Sanjiv Jari, Consultant Knee, Lower Limb & Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon

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ĞůŽŶŐ ŝĚƐďƵƌLJ ϭϳϴ WĂůĂƟŶĞ ZŽĂĚ͕ ŝĚƐďƵƌLJ͕ 'ƌĞĂƚĞƌ DĂŶĐŚĞƐƚĞƌ DϮϬ Ϯht &ĂŵŝůLJ ƐŝnjĞĚ ŚŽƵƐĞŚŽůĚƐ | ,ŝŐŚůLJ ƚƌĂŝŶĞĚ ƚĞĂŵ | ĞĂƵƟĨƵůůLJ ĂƉƉŽŝŶƚĞĚ ƐƵŝƚĞƐ | ^ƉĞĐŝĂůŝƐƚ ĞdžĞƌĐŝƐĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ sŝďƌĂŶƚ ĂĐƟǀŝƟĞƐ ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵŵĞ | ĚŵŝƌĂů EƵƌƐĞ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ | ZĂƚĞĚ 'KK ďLJ Y | ,ŽŵĞ ĐĂƌĞ ĂŶĚ ĚĂLJ ĐĂƌĞ ZĞƐƉŝƚĞ ĐĂƌĞ | >ŝƐƚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ &ƌĂŶŬ <ŶŝŐŚƚ >ƵdžƵƌLJ ĂƌĞ ,ŽŵĞ 'ƵŝĚĞ | ϵ͘ϵ ZĞǀŝĞǁ ^ĐŽƌĞ ŽŶ ĐĂƌĞŚŽŵĞ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

zŽƵƌ ůŝĨĞ͕ LJŽƵƌ ƉĂĐĞ͕ LJŽƵƌ ǁĂLJ͘

Hi-tech healthcare & wellbeing at the heart of the community Discover how Nuffield Health is using combining a personalised approach and flagship programmes to create a healthier, happier Didsbury for all ages Nuffield Health is the UK’s leading healthcare charity, and the Didsbury club is delighted to be part of that.

Being part of a charity resonates with our team; we are really proud to be part of the local Didsbury community and not just another business. As a charity, all our income is re-invested and committed in giving back to our community.

As an organisation, our purpose is simple.

We are here to build a healthier nation and in order to do that, we put our members at the heart of everything we do.

At Didsbury, we are delighted to offer the following flagship programmes: •

•

Despite focusing on offering a personalised approach across an array of different services – from personal training and children’s activities to cognitive behavioural therapy and physiotherapy – we are more than just your average health club.

In addition to investing in our facilities, our income is used to design and implement our flagship programmes to help support unmet public health needs in our local communities.

•

Cystic Fibrosis Exercise Programme – working with NHS Trusts, we offer free, tailored personal training and exercise to young children aged 5-17 years old living with cystic fibrosis to encourage them to enjoy exercise and help them maintain or improve their lung function.

SWAP – with growing concerns around the physical and mental wellbeing of children, we’re focusing on helping address the issues they face at school, at home and in the world of social media with our School Wellbeing Activity Programme. Our free programme equips young people aged 9-12 years old with tools to improve their wellbeing. We are delighted to be working with Didsbury Road Primary School and St Catherine’s in Didsbury.

Relax and Restore – to support those living with cancer, we offer a bespoke

range of treatments at preferential prices and which have been researched and approved for use on people living with or recovering from cancer.

•

Joint Pain – helps people to manage joint pain without surgery by focusing on a mix of education, physical activity and psychological support.

Nuffield Health is the only health and wellness provider to offer wide-ranging expertise to personalised, connected healthcare. Our technology supports this, providing easy access to our expertise and insight-led decisions. From prevention through to treatment and recovery, our experts are there to support people whenever and wherever they need us.

Why not come and visit us to experience why we are more than just a health club?

By investing in a membership at Nuffield Health Didsbury, you are doing more than supporting your own wellbeing, you are also supporting the wellbeing of your local community.

Nuffield Health Didsbury 0161 249 5600 February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Train for a new career with CNM Do something life-changing…Change career. Gain new skills. Help others.

Train with the College of Naturopathic Medicine Retraining as a naturopathic nutritional therapist can open the door to a rewarding career helping yourself and others to better health. You can study part-time for the Naturopathic Nutrition Diploma course at the College of Naturopathic Medicine (CNM) in one of our 10 college locations in the UK and Ireland, or you can choose to study online.

What makes CNM different is its naturopathic approach, combining evidence-based research with traditional wisdom to support the body, regain balance and achieve health. The course provides in-depth understanding of the therapeutic powers of food and how to

identify factors contributing to ill health.

You will be putting your study and knowledge into practice during hundreds of clinical hours, creating personalised dietary and lifestyle plans for clients, and achieving professional excellence, so you can start practising as soon as you graduate – joining successful CNM graduates, many of whom are celebrities and household names.

CNM is the UK’s no.1 education provider of natural therapies, with a 22-year track record for training students in the skills and confidence they need to become successful practitioners. Surveys show that more than 80 per cent of CNM graduates

are practising, either on a self-employed basis or are based in spas, gyms, and other health businesses. Some graduates use their nutritional skills in the media or to open health food shops, become successful authors or work for food or supplement companies.

CNM diploma courses in additional natural therapies include: herbal medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, health coach and natural/vegan natural chef. There is also a short course in nutrition for everyday living and a number of other excellent short courses available online.

Graduate testimonial

Graduate testimonial

CNM opened the door to my passion Romina, nutritional therapy CNM offered me the flexibility to combine studying with my long working hours. What I loved most about CNM’s course was the variety in the lecturers, their experience and practical advice, which really helped set expectations for career development and growth. I found the experience eye-opening, promising and challenging.

I ate myself healthy again with CNM – and wrote a book!

Terry, naturopathic nutrition The course inspired me to combine my chef skills with my newfound passion for nutrition and create my own recipe book, with recipes and lifestyle tips fuelled by the correct nutritional protocols.

Attend a FREE Open Event to find out more about training for a career as a nutritional therapist with CNM Manchester Visit naturopathy-uk.com or call 01342 410 505

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Reflux Clinic

A dedicated team of experts working together to create a personalised treatment plan for relief of your reflux symptoms.

Reflux symptoms can include: • Heartburn • Indigestion • Regurgitation • Difficulty swallowing • Hoarse voice • Sore throat • Throat clearing

0161 447 6650 marcus.nixon@spirehealthcare.com www.spiremanchester.com

Why the Reflux Clinic at Spire Manchester Hospital?

• Our team of experts work together to identify the main cause of your reflux symptoms, producing an individual treatment plan for each patient • We offer a range of diagnostic tests and innovative treatment options to optimise long-term symptom control • Rated as ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), we provide world-class expertise using some of the latest technologies If you have any of these symptoms, please contact our Reflux Clinic Co-ordinator, Marcus to find out how we can help.

Reduce your risk of dementia Dementia or mild cognitive impairment is present in 1 in 6 people at the age of 75 years old, 1 in 4 at 80 years old, 1 in 3 at 85 years old and 1 in 2 at 90 years old.

In terms of dementia as there are currently no very effective treatments, prevention is key.

Why not have a 25 minute consultation with a consultant physician with over 35 years’ experience to discuss ways to prevent dementia and cognitive impairment?

Only £99

Visit our website if you would like to find out more. manchesterlongevity. com Visit manchesterlongevity.com | Email: gail@uklongevity.com | Contact: 07730 435384 The Beeches (Alexandra Hospital Site) | Mill Lane | Cheadle | Cheshire | SK8 2PX

Your health doesn’t have to wait At Spire Manchester Hospital, you’ll see a leading specialist in as little 24 hours. When you book an appointment with us, you can be sure that you will receive expert care right from the start.

Book to see an expert today Search ‘Spire Manchester Hospital’ Call 0161 825 7050 ctNpNqt SpNN TcAcJN Ó 0% representative APR available Spire Healthcare offers over 300 treatments. See our website for the exact treatments at each hospital. Timings given are indicative, actual timings may vary based on consultant and tests required. Credit is subject to status. Spire Healthcare Limited is acting as a credit broker, Omni Capital Retail Finance Ltd is the lender. All named here are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Spire Healthcare’s registered address is 3 Dorset Rise, London, EC4Y 8EN.

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Access the right team, at the right -me. What to do if you get injured on the slopes Each year, more than a million Britons will leave the UK and head to the slopes to take part in skiing and snowboarding. Whilst these sports are exhilaraAng and provide excellent exercise, they can be dangerous and accidents do occur, even when you take all the necessary precauAons.

More than a 1,000 UK residents get injured every day during the snow season, with sprains, fractures and breaks extremely common, and OrthTeam Consultants regularly provide medical advice to many of these paAents overseas and expedite treatment once they are back home.

If you or a family member does get injured and are told that you/they need treatment for the injury, it can be a very daunAng situaAon and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that you make an informed decision as to whether you have treatment abroad or delay it unAl you arrive back in the UK. At the OrthTeam Centre, our highly­experienced consultants are always on­hand to oďŹ&#x20AC;er professional guidance and have a dedicated number 07732 247 247.

Our experts have put together a quick guide below to help you determine which injuries require immediate treatment and what can potenAally wait.

Disloca-ons This is when a joint comes apart and is extremely painful. The most common ski dislocaAon is in the shoulder. This injury requires immediate reducAon of the dislocaAon at an urgent care facility abroad, however, further treatment therea er can o en wait.

To book a consultaAon or for more informaAon, please call 0161 447 6888 www.orthteamcentre.co.uk /OrthTeamCentre @OrthT

Fractures Open fractures are where the bone communicates with the skin through a wound. These require urgent a)enAon abroad. Closed fractures, however, can o en wait. SomeAmes, if the bone is very severely displaced and out of posiAon, it can be improved by manipulaAon under local anaestheAc abroad and placed in a plaster back slab to maintain a reasonable posiAon. DeďŹ niAve treatment can then be planned back in the UK.

Ligament injuries Almost all ligament injuries can wait unAl you arrive back in the UK, but we recommend you are assessed urgently by a specialist on your return. The most common ligament injuries that occur on the slopes are to the knee and the thumb; with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Skierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thumbâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; one of the most common snow sports ligament injury.

Spinal and head injuries Severe spinal and head injuries o en require specialist assessment abroad. Always wear a helmet, and in children, consider a spinal support. These may prevent head and spinal injuries from colliding into a solid object, such as a tree, and can also oďŹ&#x20AC;er protecAon from being hit by another out­of­control skier.

Checklist Passport Winter sports insurance Helmet First aid kit OrthTeam on­call number stored in your phone 07732 247 247

OrthTeamCentre

Orthopaedics Spine Neuro Sports Med â&#x20AC;˘

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Spire Manchester Hospital

The OrthTeam Centre, Ohm Building (Unit 1), Didsbury Technology Park, 168 Barlow Moor Road, Manchester, M20 2AF

ASK THE ExPERTS

Everything Genetic ‘Take our cancer test today’ www.everythinggeneticltd.co.uk

Jeff Ross

Joshua Hewitt

Professor Sanjiv Jari

Jeff Ross is Founder and Owner of successful physiotherapy and healthcare business Harris & Ross. They opened their doors 15 years ago and now have four clinics across the North West.

Joshua Hewitt is a Chartered Financial Planner at Kellands (Hale) Ltd. Previously a stockbroker, Joshua now specialises in helping private clients achieve their aims.

Professor Sanjiv Jari is a Consultant Knee and Sports Injuries Surgeon at Manchester private hospitals and in the NHS. He treats degenerative and traumatic conditions of the knee, He’s a national and international speaker.

How can businesses improve health and wellbeing in the workplace? Educate your staff and get them moving! We work with a number of businesses, with a variety of approaches. At one end of the spectrum is the work we do with Bentley at their factory and offices in Crewe, where we have a full-time physio. At the other end are the workshops and presentations we do with office staff, advising on posture, the importance of movement to reduce injury, and general work wellness.

First things first – what impact may the recent election and the looming Brexit have on the UK stock market?

On whichever side of the fence you sit with regards to either the political or Brexit divide, there is now at least a newfound sense of certainty. The UK stock market reaction has initially been positive, with the FTSE 250 rising by over 4% in the 24 hours following the election result. Since the Brexit referendum, almost $30 billion has been taken out of UK equities, it is possible that we now may find this trend reverse.

How can people stay injury-free? Do you have any recommendations for anyone who is injured?

Seek advice as early as possible about what you can and can’t do – often we see people who have left it too long and made their injury worse. That said, we normally advise patients to try to keep moving! Had a hip replacement? Get moving as soon as possible afterwards.

Back pain? Keep walking. Obviously, be careful and avoid movements which specifically cause pain, but full rest often makes the recovery period take much longer.

So, you believe UK equities are where investors should be leaning towards in the new year? We all hope that the UK economy and UK equity market prospers, however, at Kellands, we do not advise taking the approach of putting all your eggs in one basket. We favour investment funds which diversify across a wide variety of asset classes and geographical markets, which have a proven track record of knowing when to alter asset allocations in order to take advantage of changes in the political and economic environment.

I have arthritis in my knee. Does this mean I need a knee replacement? Arthritis is a degenerative condition of the knee, where the lining cartilage on the bone wears away. Many people with arthritis can be managed nonoperatively. Advances in stem cell-type therapies are now available, such as the n-STRIDE APS injection.

Osteoarthritis is associated with an increase in ‘bad proteins’ being produced in your knee, which contribute to pain and cartilage matrix breakdown and so, arthritis and pain progresses. The n-STRIDE APS injection aims to target this imbalance by using some of your own blood cells to concentrate anti-inflammatory molecules and growth factors (‘good proteins’), which are then injected back into your knee to target the source of the arthritis and attempt to provide cartilage health. This can then reduce your pain and improve your wellness. This newer therapy can target the underlying disease process rather than just masking the pain like steroid injections.

What is the best thing about being a physiotherapist?

Ultimately, I love doing this job because it’s so rewarding to see the physical differences we can make to people’s lives. I love helping people and making a real difference.

Many of us at Harris & Ross come from a professional sport background… but the important thing is that we bring this knowledge and experience to everyone we treat; whether they be six or 86, one of our elite Red Bull athletes or a novice runner.

Finally, what piece of advice would you give to individuals at this time of year? As we move into the final quarter of the tax year, I would encourage people, where possible, to make full use of their tax-free annual investment allowances, such as pensions, individual savings accounts, and manage their capital gains tax position. An individual’s annual pension allowance can be carried forward for up to three years if it has not been fully utilised, however, this is not the case for ISA subscriptions. The current ISA allowance is £20,000 per person and must to be utilised by April 5th, 2020.

I’ve heard a lot about Knee replacements but are there any new developments with knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery usually is very successful and can significantly improve your quality of life.

Technology has been developed to allow use of personalised knee replacements. This involves taking a scan of the knee, from which a three-dimensional model of your knee is made for the customisation process. This can also be combined with robotic knee replacement surgery to improve the intra-operative surgical precision further. There are many potential advantages of these techniques, including less pain, shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery. Professor Jari performed the first Robotic Knee replacements in Manchester and continues to use this technology with his patients.

The advice given by our experts is in no way intended to replace professional advice and is only a guideline in response to individual reader comments.

Unfortunately, due to a high volume of queries, our experts are unable to engage in any direct correspondence.

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ASK THE ExPERTS

Everything Genetic ‘Take our cancer test today’ www.everythinggeneticltd.co.uk

Dr Nyla

Mike Karski

Lorraine Harvey

Dr. Nyla Raja is founder and Medical Director of Medispa by Dr Nyla. She also has clinics in Liverpool and London. She has 15 years’ experience and has performed over 65,000 procedures. Her clients include TV personalities and celebrities.

Mr Mike Karski is an OrthTeam Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in foot and ankle conditions.

Lorraine Harvey is a Principal Lawyer in the Family Team at Slater and Gordon, Manchester.

She’s worked in the family law field for almost two decades and has successfully handled cases that include everything from prenuptial agreements to divorce and dissolution.

What is the transformation facelift?

Anybody with any areas of skin laxity is suitable for transformation facelift. The transformation facelift is the next-generation, multi-platform treatment offered exclusively at the Medispa by Dr Nyla. It’s a unique tailor-made plan specific to each individual. It offers nonsurgical skin tightening and lifting to treat all anti-ageing concerns; from textured, dull skin to deep wrinkles and loss of laxity. A specific protocol is created for the client comprising a combination of ultrasound, radio frequency and microneedling with possible resurfacing and treatments using Botox and fillers to plump out volume loss.

What are the benefits of the transformation facelift?

It acts to smooth and clear the superficial skin, tighten the epidermis and lift the deepest SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layers of the skin, providing surgical facelift results with out the need for surgery. There is no downtime and no anaesthetic required.

How soon do you see results?

The skin will begin to immediately feel smoother and tighter after the treatment and results will continue to improve for up to three months. This is a one-off treatment, which gives immediate and long-lasting results achieved within six weeks.

How can skiing and snowboarding cause ankle injuries?

Most ankle injuries come from direct impacts or sudden twisting movements, including forceful muscle contractions. This can cause injuries to bones, ligaments or tendons around the ankle, even if you are wearing well-fitting ski or snowboarding boots.

What are the common ankle injuries caused by winter sports? Ankle ligament sprains, fractures and Achilles tendon ruptures are all common. A twisting injury to the ankle can tear the ligaments, leading to pain, bruising and swelling. Severe ankle ligament sprains need to be treated appropriately to reduce the risk of pain and instability or a ‘chronic’ ankle sprain developing. A fall or twisting injury can cause enough force to fracture or break the ankle bones. Stable fractures can usually be managed without surgery in a plaster or a boot. Unstable fractures usually require surgery to stabilise them and allow the bones to heal in an optimal position. A sudden forcible contraction of the calf muscles, combined with the ankle and foot being forced up on the slopes, can cause the tendon to rupture. Some Achilles ruptures can be managed without surgery, however, it’s important to recognise the types of injuries that would benefit from surgical repair to avoid the tendon healing in a lengthened position that can leave the calf weak long-term.

What should I do if I have an ankle injury from skiing or snowboarding? Initially seek medical attention locally.

You may require an X-ray, a plaster or boot and crutches.

If you are advised you are medically fit to return home, book an urgent appointment to see a foot and ankle specialist. OrthTeam consultants are always available to offer professional guidance, home or away.

How can I get divorced? You need to be married for at least one year and be habitually resident in England or Wales. If you are not habitually resident here, then both you and your spouse will need to be domiciled in England or Wales. There is only one ground for divorce, known as the ‘irretrievable breakdown’ of the marriage, which is proved by one of five grounds.

How do I start the divorce process? To start the divorce process, you need to obtain your original marriage certificate and file a petition at court citing one of the five grounds. There is a court fee of £550 to pay. The court will issue your petition and your spouse must then complete the acknowledgement of service within a specified timeframe.

What are the five grounds for a divorce? The five grounds are adultery, unreasonable behaviour, two-years separation, five-years separation or two-year desertion. I am often asked ‘what constitutes adultery’?

Adultery is an act of sexual intercourse with a person of the opposite sex, to whom you are not married. It is a specific circumstance that may be used to prove to the court that your marriage has irretrievably broken down. The most often cited ground for a divorce is unreasonable behaviour, which is when you consider your spouse or partner has behaved in such a way that you cannot reasonably be expected to continue to live with them.

The advice given by our experts is in no way intended to replace professional advice and is only a guideline in response to individual reader comments.

Unfortunately, due to a high volume of queries, our experts are unable to engage in any direct correspondence.

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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While Withington is a top performing school based on GCSE and A-Level results, those who know us understand what really makes us special cannot be tested or measured.

As a school with no scholarships or academic prizes, our pupils are free to develop and explore their academic potential and broader interests in a productive, collaborative and happy environment.

Let us show you how our exceptional school will offer your daughter all the support she needs to fulfil her potential, achieve her aspirations and shine.

0161 249 3371 admissions@wgs.org Means-tested bursaries available at key entry points from Year 5.

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wgs.org

SUPPORTING LOCAL EDUCATION

“Family and Property Law Specialists”

EDUCATION NEWS Sign of the times

A British Sign Language course at Abbey College Manchester was delivered over a ten-week period in partnership with Interpreting Solutions based in Sharston. Their aim is to create access through support and training and to deliver closer links and better communication between the deaf community and the rest of society.

A large group of students have undertaken this course to give them additional skills, as they aspire to secure places on the most competitive degree courses at top universities. They also expressed a genuine interest in learning and experiencing what those living a silent life go through as well as increasing awareness of deaf people, their community and to aide and encourage students to interact with deaf people.

The course covered a range of different topics that the students could use in everyday conversation including greetings, family, weather, food and drink, education, hobbies and interests. As well as teaching sign language, each session contained an interactive element, such as a fingerspelling game, two-way conversations, friendly competitions and, finally, a deaf quiz and a test to assess receptive skills and understanding whilst building the students confidence in British Sign Language. abbeymanchester.co.uk | 0161 817 2700

What a year for Bowdon Preparatory School

2019 was packed with academic challenges, excitement and successes at Bowdon Prep School (BPS) as they lived up to their values – Believe, Persevere, Succeed!

Highlights included: • • • • •

Gold Award for Geography – BPS was one of only 10 schools in the UK to achieve this Royal Geographical Society award LAMDA awards – 36 Distinctions and 14 Merits for public speaking Three gold certificates in the Junior Maths Challenge Residentials – all girls from Year 3 to Year 6 enjoyed nights away, combining academic study with Outward Bound activities Themed days – the school celebrated French Day, Science Day, World Book Day and National Poetry Day, and created their outdoor classrooms!

BPS also celebrated the success of their Year 6 leavers – with 42% moving onto Altrincham Grammar School for Girls and 41% to selective independent schools. All the girls found the right school for them – a key goal for the school.

This year, the school is looking forward to the opening of its new sports facilities – a great boost for the girls, which will further enhance pupils’ sporting prowess.

The next BPS Open Day is on March 7th, 12noon to 2pm.

Register your interest at bowdonprep.org.uk/admissions/opendays or call the Admissions Officer, Mrs Sharkey, on 0161 928 0678.

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL An independent co-educational school for ages 3-18 years

Assistance with fees available at 11+ and 16+ (means tested), academic and music scholarships FOUNDED IN 1487

Junior School and Pre-Reception Open Morning Saturday 2nd May 10am - 12pm Come and spend a day in the Senior School - Year 5 Taster Days 13th May, 21st May and 9th June To book call 0161 419 2408 Senior and Junior School day tours available Extensive school bus routes including Sale, Altrincham and Hale

SGS Inspires Tel: 0161 456 9000 68

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

Highest Inspection Rating of “Excellent” 2019

www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

Stockport Grammar achieves highest inspection rating of ‘Excellent’ Stockport Grammar’s Senior and Junior schools are delighted to have achieved the highest possible ratings of ‘Excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) following their visit in the 2019 Autumn Term

In assessing the educational quality of a school, the inspectorate focuses on two key outcomes: the achievement of the pupils, including their academic development, and the personal development of the pupils.

The Senior and Junior Schools were inspected separately, and both were rated ‘Excellent’ for the two outcomes.

The school received a wide range of positive comments in the reports. The inspectors’ comments about the Senior School included: “Throughout the school, pupils’ progress is rapid, and they achieve highly in both academic and other areas.”

“The excellent level of pastoral care ensures that pupils grow in both self-confidence and self-esteem, and so develop into resilient young adults, ready for the next stage in their lives.”

“Pupils excel in a wide range of creative and physical pursuits and are supported in their achievements by the wide-ranging extra-curricular programme.”

“Pupils demonstrate excellent communication skills; they are confident and articulate speakers, listen well and write fluently in a range of styles.”

Their comments about the Junior School included: “Pupils flourish in a community exemplified by exceptionally warm and supportive relationships and a genuine sense of mutual care.”

“Pupils build excellent skills and knowledge; they are confident and curious learners and these attitudes result in very good outcomes across all areas of the curriculum.”

“Pupils excel in a very broad range of disciplines, both inside and outside the classroom.”

“As pupils leave the school, they are very well prepared for the next stage of their education or lives and ready to take on their future challenges as capable, resilient and confident young people.”

Senior School Headmaster, Dr Paul Owen, and Junior School Headmaster, Mr Tim Wheeler, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Junior and Senior Schools have both achieved the highest possible ratings of ‘Excellent’.

“The fantastic reports are filled with wonderful comments about the pupils and are a real source of pride and satisfaction for the whole Stockport Grammar School community.”

The ISI is the body approved by the Government for the purpose of inspecting schools belonging to the Independent Schools Council (ISC).

The full report can be viewed at stockportgrammar.co.uk February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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<HDU ([WHUQDO 7DVWHU 'D\ 0RQGD\ -XO\ Register online at www.aesg.co.uk/registration 01625 583028 www.aesg.co.uk admissions@aesg.co.uk

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February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

New Headmistress appointed at Alderley Edge School for Girls The Governors at Alderley Edge School for Girls are delighted to announce that Mrs Nicola Smillie will be taking up the post of Headmistress at the School in September 2020 following an extensive search by education recruitment specialists RSAcademics. Nicola will be the fourth head to lead the school since the amalgamation of St Hilary’s and Mount Carmel Schools 21 years ago.

Nicola is a Hispanic studies and French graduate and is currently Headmistress of an independent school for girls aged three to 18 years, Saint Martin’s School in Solihull. Nicola is a passionate supporter of girls’ education and feels that her philosophy of education is well matched to the ethos at Alderley Edge School for Girls, believing that all girls should be inspired to achieve high academic standards while developing their confidence and self-esteem through proactive and supportive pastoral care.

She is an ISI inspector and has enjoyed extensive experience in GSA schools, including Westholme School, Blackburn, and firmly believes that girls’ schools are those in which girls excel.

Nicola, originally from the North West, commented: “I am incredibly excited about joining such an outstanding and award-winning school for girls and I look forward to meeting pupils, parents and staff and being a part of the Alderley family.”

Shirley Herring, Chair of Governors at the school, said: "Mrs Smillie is an experienced headmistress who has led Saint Martin's School with great success. We look forward to working with Nicola and the leadership team to continue with the school’s strategic vision and begin an exciting new chapter in the history of Alderley Edge School for Girls.”

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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SUPPORTING LOCAL EDUCATION

“Family and Property Law Specialists”

The Grange School students of all ages ‘make rapid progress’ inspection finds

with determination to succeed’. The report went on to mention how the broad curriculum offered, the good standard of teaching and an ethos of learning from mistakes in the classroom develops a ‘can-do’ attitude.

Head of the school, Mrs Leonard, said: “To see this report, I believe, really highlights how successful we have been in achieving our goals as a school. I thank my staff and all the young people who attend The Grange for their continued and dedicated hard work in making the school the success that it is.”

The Grange School has started 2020 on a positive note after independent school inspectors found the school’s young people ‘thrive as part of a community that actively seeks to develop the academic potential of its pupils and nurture their social awareness’.

An inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) saw the quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements and

quality of pupils’ personal development both described as ‘excellent’.

Lesson observations from inspectors showed how The Grange’s academic programme leads to success. They commented that ‘pupils are zealous in their learning and display excellent study skills, responding to academic challenge

The inspection praised the students’ behaviour observing ‘they respect each other as they queue for lunch, hold doors open for each other and are welcoming to visitors’. The Grange aims to prepare their students for life after school and the Careers Department support, along with career fairs and visiting speakers, was praised as students ‘feel very well prepared for the next step in their careers and are highly appreciative of the guidance provided’.

New Pre-Reception building granted approval at Stockport Grammar Stockport Grammar School (SGS) is pleased to announce that planning permission has been granted for the construction of new Pre-Reception facilities. A brand-new single-storey Pre-Reception building will be built within the grounds of the Junior School. It will replace the current Pre-Reception classroom and have a stunning, ‘living’ green roof and utilise eco-friendly technology. Work will commence in February 2020 and is due for completion by September.

This latest development follows on from an extension to the front of the SGS Junior School, which saw the changing rooms double in size and its quad landscaped with artificial lawns to provide an all-year-round play and learning surface. In SGS’s Senior School, spectacular work on the Sixth Form area is progressing to schedule and will see a glass roof constructed over the current Sixth Form quad to create a large, modern and well-equipped social space for students.

SGS Headmaster, Dr Paul Owen, said: “This is very exciting news for our pupils across the Junior and Senior Schools. Our new

Pre-Reception building will allow us to continue to provide an exceptionally high standard of both education and care for our youngest children.

“The new Sixth Form building will provide excellent social and study spaces from September 2020 to further support our students’ personal and academic development.”

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Co-ed 7-18 Day and Boarding

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01691 626 510 • www.ellesmere.com Ellesmere College, Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 9AB

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SUPPORTING LOCAL EDUCATION

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Unprecedented success for Ellesmere College Titans as they lead the Olympic swim race top-class performances to build on the many successes achieved since the Titans were formed 11 years ago.

The Ellesmere College Titans swimming team is celebrating unprecedented success with a raft of recent honours adding to a hugely impressive record, unrivalled by any other programme in the country in providing swimmers to represent their country. Freya Anderson is leading the way as a regular face on the international scene, with teammates racking up further

Anderson, 18, won double gold in the recent European Short Course Swimming Championships, swimming a lifetime best in the 100m freestyle before breaking her own record to win the 200m freestyle. She followed up with fourth place in the 400m freestyle and a silver medal in the 50m freestyle relay.

The Titans team of Evie Float, Hettie D’Ammassa, Katie Hale and Emily Farr competed at the English Schools Swimming Association Team Relay Championships, winning gold in the

medley and taking fourth place in the freestyle event. Hector Pardoe won silver and youth gold in the men’s 1500m freestyle at the Swim England National Winter Championships, and Lauren Wetherell achieved a West Midlands Short Course Record in the Women's 1500m freestyle at the Swim Wales Winter Championships.

Ellesmere College Titans have produced 18 international swimmers in the last five years, with medals won at the Commonwealth Youth Games, European Youth Olympics, European Junior Pool and Open Water, World Junior Pool and Open Water, Commonwealth Games, European Championships and World Championships.

Withington is North West Independent Secondary School of the Year Withington Girls’ School has been named North West Independent Secondary School of the Year 2020 by The Sunday Times. In the award citation, Alastair McCall, editor of The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2020, explained: “Withington Girls’ regains its position in the elite top 25 independent schools in the UK this year, following a summer of outstanding success in public examinations. For so long Manchester’s premier all-girls independent school, its pupils progress to all the leading universities and academic standards are high.

“Girls contribute widely to school life and make Withington anything but an examination factory, however. While excellence is the norm here, it is fostered in all aspects of school life, equipping the girls to make an impact once they leave and take on the wider challenges presented by life beyond the school gates.”

Headmistress, Sarah Haslam, is delighted to see Withington recognised with this prestigious award: “It reflects not only the consistently outstanding academic achievements of our pupils,

which are sustained year on year, but also the wider life of the school, which sees pupils flourish and thrive both within and beyond the classroom through their extra-curricular activities, community spirit and their engagement with the world around them.”

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

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Manchester’s Sing Out Music Gospel Choir

By Fay Wertheimer

Music for any occasion

Under the creative baton of former community project co-ordinator Chan Evans, Sing Out Music Gospel Choir and Soul Band really do go places locally, nationwide and overseas. Formed with like-minded, church-going pals, the original community gospel choir of 2007 has morphed into both the Sing Out Gospel Choir and Sing Out Music, a professional entity providing live entertainment for parties, corporate events, weddings, funerals, festivals and charity functions.

You can opt for anything from a single vocalist to a 15-singer combo plus a five-piece band. Over the last 13 years, both groups have amassed a 160-strong playlist; ranging from church classics such as Oh Happy Day to Coldplay and Aretha Franklin hits.

And Sing Out Music’s artistic director, singer-songwriter Chan, could not be more delighted. You see, completely immersed in music, she’s living her dream.

One of five musical children, Huddersfield born Chan penned her first song at 14.

and bookings. But most importantly, she gained headspace to write more songs.

She was inspired by the Afro-Caribbean Pentecostal traditions both she and her church-going family nurture to this very day. But only after furthering her education and working in the very real world of deprivation and homelessness, did mother-of-three Chan feel ready to devote herself to her passion full-time.

She says: “I have a business and marketing degree from Salford university, which enables me to combine my talents with business acumen. The qualification is my back-up and reassured my parents that I do have something concrete to work from… and that I haven’t lost the plot doing music!”

It was tricky balancing motherhood, development work and the establishment of her choirs until, in 2011, she married Winston. An experienced promoter and reggae aficionado, he took over the nittygritty of gigs, the transport, the amplification and general managing of the business.

Chan could now focus on the art form, auditioning the mainly female hopefuls,

Chan adds: “This year, we auditioned twice. I’m after people who will fit in, not merely those with good voices. Songs are memorised and often sung in four-part harmony. We rehearse once a month and weekly before performances. We customise our repertoire and dress for every event. Our first year, 2007, was unbelievable. For the launch of the first Manchester International Festival, fifteen of us sang for five nights at the Opera House as Damon Albarn’s backing choir for his Demon Days Live shows.”

The tones of Sing Out Gospel Choir’s fifty gifted musicians have enhanced charity balls, parties, product launches and rites of passage too. The choir’s Sunday afternoon residency at Chester’s Opera Grill regularly has people up on the floor dancing.

Salutions’ Salim Uddin-Khandakar sums up saying, “They’re uplifting, soulful and a joy to watch. The Sing Out Gospel Choir is a real Sister Act!”

Sing Out Gospel Choir and Soul Band Tel: 0161 915 2670 / Chan Evans 07813065584 | Email: choir@singoutmusic.org Web: singoutmusic.org | Social: @singoutmusic @chansingoutmusic 76

February/March 2020 | salutions.co.uk

tech

By Oliver Chesher

COFFEE TECH

Coffee is big business. Even when we’re skint, it’s one daily luxury few of us are willing to give up. And it’s a trend that’s only going to keep growing as coffee fans grow ever more knowledgeable and (dare I say it) obsessive.

And where there’s proper coffee, there are gadgets.

Melitta Avanza Red Original Insulated Travel Cup

There’s no excuse for disposable cups, especially if you’re brewing your own coffee at home. This is pretty much the benchmark for a travel cup: big enough to hold three cups of coffee, doublewall insulated to keep drinks hot for four hours, and marine-grade stainless steel for purity of taste and resistance to dishwashers and other daily rigours. £19.95, redoriginal.com

This machine takes home-brewed coffee to a new level. At 200mm wide, it is one of the world’s smallest fully automatic bean-to-cup machines and the grinder is incredibly quiet, meaning fresh coffee without waking up the whole house. For the connoisseurs, it has a pleasing amount of adjustability, with multiple grinder, temperature and strength settings. You can even make professional quality cappuccinos with the milk frothing cappucinatore attachment.

I did a quick calculation: with one touch of a button, this £499 machine delivers my daily espressos – which taste as good as any I’d have bought from a barista – meaning it pays for itself in under one year.

I’d say that makes it the single most important appliance in my entire kitchen!

Its design is just as amazing as its brewing, with sleek piano-black finish, chrome accents and a subtle LED display. And maintenance is effortless, with automated cleaning and descaling programmes to keep everything fresh. £499, melitta.co.uk

AeroPress

As someone who loves to explore the outdoors whenever possible, I’m sometimes separated from my beloved Melitta machine back home. When out and about, the AeroPress is the perfect gadget. It’s a new kind of coffee press that allows you to create your ideal brewing conditions: proper temperature, total immersion and rapid filtering. This results in amazingly delicious coffee with a wide range of flavours and with very low acidity. From £29.99, aeropress.co.uk

Nanopresso

If compactness is a consideration when you’re on the go, this 15cm contraption will make you a perfect espresso shot without requiring any batteries or gas cartridges. The hand-operated Nanopresso is surely a contender for world’s smallest espresso machine and it really works.

From £50, wacaco.com

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WHAT’S ON There is plenty of fun and exciting entertainment to keep you occupied during the darker nights and colder days of February and March before spring finally arrives. Dance makes a big impact with international ballet superstar Carlos Acosta returning to The Lowry and a new dance show featuring the music of Sting comes to town. Riverdance is also back celebrating its 25th anniversary and Cirque de Soleil brings its new show to Manchester Arena.

Riverdance 14 & 15 March Palace Theatre Riverdance celebrates 25 years on stage with a powerful and stirring reinvention of this family favourite, celebrated the world over for its Grammy Award-winning music and the thrilling energy and passion of its Irish and international dance.

Acosta Danza Revolution 24 & 25 March The Lowry

By Catherine Reed Drama Wuthering Heights 7 February – 7 March Royal Exchange Experience a very different side to literature’s most electric couple in this gripping reinvention of the classic tale. Bryony Shanahan’s production of Andrew Sheridan’s searing script is a ferocious, wild and exhilarating celebration of passion and desire.

Emily Brontë never felt quite like this before.

Shirley Valentine 10-29 February Bolton Octagon Mina Anwar, who starred in TV’s The Thin Blue Line and Doctor Who, takes the title role in Willy Russell’s heartwarming comedy. This brand-new production will be brought to life in the intimate setting of Bolton’s Library Theatre.

Ghost Stories 18-22 Feb The Lowry Following record-breaking, sell-out productions and a hit film, Andy Nyman and Jeremy Dyson’s worldwide cult phenomenon Ghost Stories will be in Salford for the first time this February. If you like to be scared witless and enjoy a real edge-of-the-seat theatrical experience – this is most definitely the show for you!

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The Last Temptation of Boris Johnson 2-7 March The Lowry Jonathan Maitland’s timely comedy drama tells the story of the dinner that changed history – the night in 2016 when Boris Johnson decided to vote ‘leave’. We are then projected forward to 2029 when, no longer in power, Boris roams the political wilderness – until unexpected events see him return.

Don’t miss the legendary International ballet superstar Carlos Acosta and his critically acclaimed Cuban company, Acosta Danza, as they perform a thrilling programme of new and existing works. Carlos himself makes a guest appearance in the wonderfully entertaining Rooster – set to music by the Rolling Stones and choreographed

by Christopher Bruce.

Opera Opera North 10-14 March The Lowry Opera North presents three productions during their week-long stay at The Lowry. The ever-popular Marriage of Figaro is sure to be a massive hit with audiences, as is the chilling ghost story The Turn of the Screw. Street Scene is a chance for opera to rub shoulders with jazz and the jitterbug in an evening of musical theatre.

Dance Swan Lake 4-7 March The Lowry Birmingham Royal Ballet presents Swan Lake, one of the most evocative and romantic ballets accompanied by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, who bring to life Tchaikovsky’s wonderful score.

Message In A Bottle 1-4 April The Lowry This is an amazing new dance show based on the songs of 17-time Grammy Award-winning artist Sting and choreographed by triple Olivier Award nominee Kate Prince. This is undoubtedly a powerful and extraordinary combination and the result is a formidable and joyous dance theatre show.

WHAT’S ON Family Sarah & Duck 18-23 February The Lowry Join Sarah, Duck and friends, including The Ribbon Sisters and The Shallots, in this magical adventure that includes puppetry, storytelling and music.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea 21 & 22 March The Lowry Join the tea-drinking Tiger in this super adaptation of Britain’s bestloved picture book by Judith Kerr.

There will be plenty of sing-along songs and lots of crazy chaos when this Olivier Award-nominated production returns to the stage.

ZOG 27-29 March Oldham Coliseum Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved book has been imaginatively adapted in Mike Shepherd’s magical production, complete with Johnny Flynn’s sumptuous folk score featuring live musicians.

Special events The Original Harlem Globe Trotters 8 March Manchester Arena The world famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring some of the most electrifying athletes on the planet, are bringing their spectacular show to the UK as part of their 2020 Pushing the Limits World Tour. Holders of 21 current world records, the Globetrotters will attempt a new world record live at each game, hoping to add to their list of impressive accolades and innovations.

This one-of-a-kind show blends circus arts and the world of ice skating to deliver a stunning new production that takes the audience on a journey into a whimsical frozen playground, where stunning skating combines with jaw-dropping acrobatic feats.

Gin Festival 21 & 22 February Manchester Cathedral

Rando, that promises to be a big hit and includes songs such as Johnny B. Goode, The Power of Love and Earth Angel.

Cabaret 25-29 February Palace Theatre

Musicals

John Partridge stars as Emcee in this multi-award-winning production directed by Rufus Norris. The soundtrack is outstanding and features such classics as Money Makes the World Go Round, Maybe This Time, and, of course, Cabaret alongside showstopping choreography and dazzling costumes.

Thriller Live!

10-15 February Palace Theatre

Phantom of the Opera 26 March – 30 May Palace Theatre

Experience over two hours of non-stop music from pop and rock to soul and disco in a brilliant show that pays homage to Michael Jackson and celebrates his amazing career.

Now in its 33rd year, this wonderful production is one of the most successful musicals in history with its romantic, haunting and soaring score, which includes Music of the Night, All I Ask of You and, unforgettably, the famous title track.

There are over 100 gins, and several rums on offer all under one roof, plus live music, food, giant Jenga and even some dancing!

Back To The Future 20 February – 17 May Manchester Opera House We all remember the movie with Michael J. Fox and his skateboard, the flux capacitor and the crazy scientist with the wild hair… well, Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis, creators of the original 1985 movie and pop culture phenomenon, are bringing the movie to the stage for the first time. They have created a fabulous musical adventure, directed here by John

Music Tom Walker 13 February Night & Day Café James Arthur 11 March Manchester Arena Elvis Costello & The Imposters 12 March Palace Theatre Jamie Cullum 25 March Bridgewater Hall Dermot Kennedy 28 March Victoria Warehouse

Cirque de Soleil Crystal 1-5 April Manchester Arena

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By Oliver Chesher

REDEFINING THE GRAND TOURER A Grand Tourer (GT) is not necessarily something you would expect from the out-and-out supercar maker McLaren. Traditionally, the idea of a GT is to start with luxury and add power, but McLaren has flipped that on its head with spectacular effect

The GT has been a subgenre of the motor car for almost as long as cars have existed.

It does what it says: crosses great distances quickly and in grandeur. For this, it requires a blend of performance, comfort, luxury and at least a decent bit of luggage space.

legendary 90s hypercar, the F1 – arguably the greatest road-going performance car ever built. This meant taking undiluted McLaren dynamics and performance, and adding practicality, comfort, luggage space and, of course, bags of style.

Most of today’s famous GTs are fundamentally luxury cars with insane amounts of power and technology added to give a performance to match. That’s a beguiling recipe for those that can afford it.

The result is astonishing – and McLaren Manchester invited me to discover it for myself. So, what was it like treating the McLaren GT as a ‘daily driver’ around the suburbs of Cheshire? The lightest, quickest accelerating car in its class is certainly a thrill on the open road or the track, but I wanted to know if this was actually a car you could enjoy, relax with, show off in and, in my case, drive my three-year-old to her dance class. In all cases, the experience is a special one.

McLaren has redefined the idea of the Grand Tourer, however, simply because its heritage lies not in luxury cars but in absolute performance. McLaren and its followers have not grown up dreaming of limousines or big cruisers – instead, they look to the racetrack.

Probably my favourite aspect of this car McLaren set itself the challenge of building was simply how happy it made people. a GT car worthy of the same badge as the Car enthusiasts wanted to stop and talk

about it everywhere I parked it, and crowds of schoolkids excitedly took photos and begged to hear the engine revving. It seems to make people’s day just to see it.

Before you even get inside, the excitement levels are already high, if only for the striking copper paintwork that seems to be the colour of choice. Needless to say, like most overgrown schoolboys that write about cars for fun, I’m a sucker for scissor doors.

To actually use the car (even in British traffic) is as much of a kick as it is to blast it flat out. 0-60 in just over three seconds and a top speed of over 200mph are exciting numbers to write, let alone experience, but it’s the elegance and refinements like soft leather, electrochromic sunroof, surround sound system and concealed mood lighting that make this a new definition of luxury.

For more information or to book a test drive, contact McLaren Manchester on 01625 416 260 or at mclaren.manchester@sytner.co.uk

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2020 Maggie’s Costume Ball S AT U R DAY 2 8 T H MARCH 2020 at The Lowry Hotel 7.00pm till 1.00 am

T I C K E TS £99 PER PERSON

LADIES & GENTLEMEN We are hoping you will join us to recreate history and raise funds for people affected by cancer. This event is based on one of the region’s most glamorous events from 1828 where generous philanthropists of the North West attended an extravagant ball to raise money for local charity.

Prominent citizens at the 19th century celebration included the Lord Mayor, MPs,industrial magnates and the Home Secretary Robert Peel. The scene was captured by artist Arthur Perigal and is a social record of the ‘cream of Manchester society’.

S PA M E M B E R S H I P Our highly skilled beauty experts offer treatments from worldclass brands including ELEMIS and Aromatherapy Associates and whether you want to follow an ongoing maintenance programme, indulge in some beauty treatments or simply have a massage our spa membership is perfect. Packages range from £50 - £100 per month you will receive monthly spa treatments, gym access, personal training sessions and discounts throughout the hotel.

Tickets include entertainment, a three course dinner, DJ, disco, raffle & auction.

Dress code : Period Dress Guests are also welcome to attend the event in their own period dress Reserve your place or table by contacting The Lowry Hotel on 0161 827 4000 or email rachael.fitton@thelowryhotel.com alternatively contact Jemma Halman or Ruth Tobi from Maggies Manchester by calling 0161 641 4857 or e-mail ruth.tobi@maggiescentres.org thelowryhotel.com +44 161 827 4000

@thelowryhotel

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