Close up April 2018

CLOSE UP April 2018 closeupuk.com

STAR

Struck WITH

Michelle Williams

Fashion

STATEMENT

Giving your wardrobe a make-over

THE

Property SUPPLEMENT

Features, interviews and opinions

DAISY RIDLEY May the

force

be with her

LOOK INTO MY

Eyes

Meet the future beauty trends

IT’S A

Spring

THING!

This seasons palette trends

There’s Something About

HOLLY

HOLLY WILLOUGHBY REVEALS HER FEISTY SIDE

daisy sa

ha

r es

F

s e o ! p a e p i Str

Pr etty in pastels

Step into spr ing!

GET READY TO WEAR New season styles in stores now

PALACE SHOPPING palaceshopping

WEDDING COLLECTION Brides, bridesmaids, groomsmen & guests, make your big day extra special with a little help from Next

A VA I L A B L E O N L I N E A T N E X T. C O . U K

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EDITOR’S LETTER Advertise Your Business With Style...

Enfield, Winchmore Hill, Grange Park, Southgate, Palmers Green, Oakwood, Cockfosters, Hadley Wood, Barnet, Whetstone, Totteridge, Finchley, Muswell Hill, Crouch End, Brentwood, Loughton, Chigwell, Buckhurst Hill, Chingford, Romford, Woodford, Epping, Barkingside, Ilford, Abridge, Highams Park and Wanstead.

If you would like your area covered contact us on 020 8886 8472.

Editorial Leah Shakallis

Publisher & Editor Andrea Georgiou andrea@closeupuk.com

Accounts Director accounts@closeupuk.com

Head of Marketing and Sales Leah Shakallis leah@closeupuk.com

What’s Hot Editorial Lauren Lunn Farrow

Field Sales Advisor Kat Stylianou kat@closeupuk.com

Dental Column Dr Richard Marques Photographer Jon Gorrigan / Diet Coke

Film Editor James Luxford

Cover and Cover Interview images: To celebrate the launch of Diet Coke’s new campaign Because I Can which will see the brand encourage consumers live life unapologetically and two new flavours, Exotic Mango and Feisty Cherry, Diet Coke has released a series of stunning images featuring brand ambassador Holly Willoughby bringing the new flavours to life.

If you would like to contribute, contact sayhello@closeupuk.com If you want to advertise your business with style, contact 020 8886 8472 sayhello@closeupuk.com

Head Office Suite 1, 72 Chase Side, First Floor Offices, Southgate, N14 5PH Tel 020 8886 8472 Email sayhello@closeupuk.com Web www.closeupuk.com

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BE SOMEBODY nobody thought I

you could be

f you caught her presenting Dancing On Ice recently you'll agree that Holly Willoughby is something of a national treasure.

The This Morning presenter flicks seamlessly from hosting the muchloved breakfast show to poking fun at herself on Celebrity Juice. And that's all on top of raising her three children, Harry, eight, Belle, six, and two-year-old Chester, with husband Dan Baldwin.

All the while her figure has been making headlines, yet the star has kept quiet about her diet and fitness routine. However, talking on Lorraine recently, she did reveal one thing that helps to keep her toned and healthy. And it's quite simple. Holly credits her enviable figure to having more time on her hands to focus on herself. She said: "My children are a bit older. You get to that point where you have a bit more time to yourself.

I think as long as you’re happy and healthy that's most important."

So, make like Holly and schedule in some time this week for self-care—be it yoga, meditation, running, brunch, whatever you need to feel like you're investing in your self.

With that in mind, my mantra for today: “to find yourself think for yourself and make yourself a priority once in a while, it’s not selfish, it’s necessary!”

x a e r d n A

Till next month...

RECYCLE

PLEASE NOTE: Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Although we make every effort to quote correct prices of items featured, it is possible that these may have changed on going to press. Although we endeavour to ensure any organisations or firms mentioned are reputable, the editor cannot guarantee they will fulfil obligations in all circumstances. Neither the editor nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any materials submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. The editor reserves the right to edit any materials supplied as she sees fit.

Printed by the Magazine Printing Company PLC www.magprint.co.uk @closeupmag

@closeup_uk

COMPETITION

Close Up magazine have once again teamed up with Pearson’s of Enfield to offer one lucky reader the chance to win £200 to spend on a Barbour for the special man in your life!

To enter, simply email sayhello@closeupuk.com headed ‘BARBOUR’. Closing date 30th April 2018.

Good Luck!

See page 21

WISH list

Close Up’s monthly guide to what you should be wishing for…

IT’S A MIRACLE

DRIP DROP

ON THE GO

CATCHING FLIGHTS

The must-have multipurpose Miracle Balm by Purple Tree Skincare is ideal for summer! Try it out in 5 different flavours, all made from natural ingredients in the UK, vegan friendly and cruelty free.

Bring the sunshine to a cloudy day with this ladies elegant walking umbrella. With its stunning block colour theme, it really will keep you dry in the worst weather - at only 270 grams its light too!

The new design of Twist & Spritz is here! The new filling system makes it incredibly easy to fill.

Take your pick and take your favourite fragrance with you wherever you go!

Rediscover the pleasure of travelling and travel in style with HB London. The personalised luggage collection is bang on trend with it’s cracked marble look available in over 5 different colours.

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ROYAL SCENT

GREAT BEATRIX BAKE OFF

One of the Duchess of Cambridge’s favourite brands, L.K.Bennett, has launched its very first fragrance ‘Signature’, especially for spring!

The beautiful vintage-style, art-deco bottle takes inspiration from the brand’s classic style aesthetic.

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The Tales of Beatrix Potter have made their way to Biscuiteers!

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In this Kundalini yoga programme with Harmanjot, you can quickly and sustainably experience real positivity and deep well-being.

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COVER INTERVIEW

Morning GLORY Words by Andrea Georgiou

Holly Willoughby on ITV’s favourite sofa and turning up the heat for her new campaign.

I’m quite active and I try not to let the way I look be the main focus because it’s not the important thing. As long as I’m being healthy, that’s good enough for me.

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COVER INTERVIEW

H

olly Willoughby has got us all clicking refresh on her Instagram to see what her daily outfit will be. The This Morning presenter shares a snap of her outfit each day on her feed, and everything she chooses becomes an instant sell-out. The 37-year-old mum-of-three has appointed a new stylist Angie Smith, and the pair put together outfits from both the high street and more expensive labels to show off her great figure. Holly has gone through a dramatic body transformation in the last few months, she might be looking slimmer than ever, but the TV presenter has remained tight-lipped on how she achieved her body transformation. Luckily for her fans, Holly’s pal Keith Lemon has a big mouth and revealed exactly what she did to lose the weight. “I’ve heard a rumour that it’s some sort of boxing, I asked if she was going to be bringing a fitness DVD out, because everyone’s going to be saying, ‘I want a body like Holly Willoughby!” He added: “Ages ago she came back from holiday and I said she’d lost weight, I could see it in her face. Then everyone picked up on it, and we were at a party a while later and I said “I bet you’re sick to death of everyone asking you how you’ve lost it...but how have you lost it?”

“Holly’s always been a total babe.” But while the mum of three has kept schtum about the diet and fitness methods behind her weight loss, she did reveal that she’s feeling “happy and healthy” in her new shape.

on strengthening and toning her core.’’ Lynne went on: “The exercises help trim the waist and flatten the stomach.” Among the exercises Holly does are slow arm lifts above the head while holding a towel and assisted curl-ups using a pillow.

However, Holly will continue to keep quiet about her diet and fitness secrets as she’s worried her comments could encourage eating disorders among her followers. “I try not to focus too much on my appearance,” she said in summer 2016. “I’m quite active and I try not to let the way I look be the main focus because it’s not the important thing. “As long as I’m being healthy, that’s good enough for me.” The popular This Morning host has also landed her latest commercial deal with Diet Coke as she continues to increase her brand. Speaking about the new partnership, Holly said: “I’ve always been a big Diet Coke fan, right from the original ‘Break’ ads we all remember with great fondness. The brand is well known for celebrating friendship, fashion and fun, which are all very important to me.

I’m excited to be involved!”

The 35-year-old has already got a tidy £11million in the bank thanks to her presenting work, lucrative beauty contracts and lifestyle projects. But it was recently reported Holly is set to nearly double her fortune to £21million by launching an interior design business with Dragons’ Den mogul Peter Jones. The

I’ve always been a big Diet Coke fan, right from the original ‘Break’ ads we all remember with great fondness. The brand is well known for celebrating friendship, fashion and fun, which are all very important to me. I’m excited to be involved!

In an interview with her ITV co-star Lorraine Kelly last year, Holly said it was as her children grew older that she was able to focus on herself once again. “But I think as long as you’re happy and healthy that’s most important,” she said, before joking that she still has her famous “Willough-boobies” despite shedding the pounds. Holly, 36, has been stealthily losing weight since the birth of her third child Chester in September 2014. But it’s only in the last few months that her shape has really transformed, helped in no small part by a wardrobe makeover that saw her ditch the old-fashioned frocks she loved and move on to a more modern look, with waist-nipping dresses and mini skirts that suit her hourglass figure. It was previously thought the secret behind her toned tum, arms and legs was pilates.

The simple form of exercise combines stretching and balance movements that improve core strength and can lead to better posture and flexibility.

While pilates by itself doesn’t necessarily result in weight loss, it can be combined with diet and other exercise to shed the pounds. And Holly’s own pilates instructor revealed that the This Morning star came to her in 2011 after the birth of her second child Belle to strengthen her core and get her body back to its pre-baby form. “I worked with Holly for several months, teaching her privately at her home once a week,” said pilates expert Lynne Robinson, owner of Body Control Pilates.

“Holly had postnatal matt work classes, which concentrated

14

mum-of-three has set up Truly Group Ltd with Peter’s partner Tara Capp - and the pair plan to unveil their business ideas later this year. Holly has been close friends with Peter and Tara for many years, and was spotted holidaying with the couple in August last year alongside her husband Dan Baldwin.

Holly’s showbiz career began when she was just 14, after being spotted by modelling scouts at Clothes Show Live in Birmingham. She signed to Storm – the agency that represented Kate Moss – and appeared in a wealth of teen magazines, including Just Seventeen. Holly made the move into television by appearing on S Club TV and Ministry of Mayhem, for which she won a BAFTA in 2006. Holly currently earns £400,000 a year by presenting This Morning, but has also fronted prime-time shows such as Celebrity Juice, Dancing On Ice and The Xtra Factor. She is reported to have netted £400,000 during her brief presenting stint on The Voice. Away from television, Holly has written a series of children’s book with her sister Kelly, which have gone on to become UK best sellers.

To celebrate the launch of Diet Coke’s new campaign Because I Can which will see the brand encourage consumers live life unapologetically and two new flavours, Exotic Mango and Feisty Cherry, Diet Coke has released a series of stunning images featuring brand ambassador Holly Willoughby bringing the new flavours to life.

15

FASHION George at Asda Miss Selfridge £28 New Look £19.99

V by Very £22 River Island POA

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Colour BOMB

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Over the course of the month, bloggers, celebrities and models ditched the millennial pink and instead, stepped out wearing differing shades of yellow. The runway cemented the trend with the likes of Balenciaga and Calvin Klein including bright yellow in their new collections. Now that it’s spring, you’ll start to notice yellow popping up all over your Instagram grid. Get ahead of the crowd by filing away the monochrome and introducing some colour.

Links of London £195 New Look £19.99 River Island £45 Miss Selfridge £18

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FASHION New Look

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SOLID Vertical stripes will draw the eye up for spring – which is both stylish and flattering. If you would like to really master the trend, keep this tip at top of mind: The more graphic the stripe, the better.

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Wallis £50

JD Williams £49

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New Look £22

Zara £69.99

FASHION

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Zara £95.99

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Miss Selfridge £16

V by Very £32

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Matalan £8

New Look £24 Topshop £36

Zara £25.99

New Look

EDITORIAL Lace Dress from a selection at Monsoon

STEP INTO SPRING Refresh your wardrobe this spring with some staple and stylish pieces from Palace Shopping in Enfield town.

Step into spring with the perfect mix of denim, simple tees and statement accessories that are on offer at the great selection of stores in Enfield town centre - guaranteed to create chic yet effortless looks. High street favourites including River Island, Topshop, H&M and Next all feature this season’s top trends – bold colours, classic stripes and pretty pastels.

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Spring calls for a natural glow – dewy skin, rosy cheeks and soft eyes. Whether you’re searching for highlighter or neutral eyeshadow, our top beauty and make up brands in Pearsons, such as Laura Mercier, Chanel, MAC and Bobbi Brown will have everything you could need for a fresh spring face.

It’s all in store for you – and so much more – at Palace Shopping Enfield

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Beauty treatments & Holistic therapies Caci non surgical facelift Skin peels Dermal rollers Facials Hot stone massage Aromatherapy massage Waxing Shellac nails Eyelash extensions Stockists of Caudalie Aromatherapy Associates Dibi • Nailtiques

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COMPETITION Close Up magazine have once again teamed up with Pearson’s of Enfield to offer one lucky reader the chance to win £200 to spend on Barbour for the special man in your life!

To enter, simply email sayhello@closeupuk.com headed ‘BARBOUR’. Closing date 30th April 2018.

Good Luck!

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EDITORIAL

STRUGGLING TO CONCEIVE?

YOU AREN’T ALONE

Around 1 in 7 couples experience difficulty conceiving. Although around 84% of couples will conceive naturally within a year of trying, 3.5 million people in the UK may need help to have a baby. If you are experiencing difficulties in conceiving it is important to remember that you are not alone and that infertility affects many people for many different reasons.

There can be male and female issues, or a combination of both, that make conceiving difficult. Unfortunately for some couples there can also be no known cause (‘unexplained infertility’). Other people have no problem conceiving their first child but struggle to have a second (this is called ‘secondary infertility’ and affects thousands of couples every year). The good news is that almost all cases of infertility are responsive to treatment and that most couples can be helped by fertility treatment to have a baby.

In this Q&A, Dr Sanjula Sharma, Consultant in Reproductive Medicine at The Holly Private Hospital shares some advice on fertility and when you may want to see a doctor if you are struggling to conceive.

Q. I’ve been trying for a baby for a while but nothing is happening – when should I see a doctor?

A. If you are under 35 and have been having regular, unprotected sex then generally speaking you should wait for about one year before seeking help. If you are over 35 or if you have a known issue that may affect your fertility, you should seek help sooner, usually after around 6 months of trying.

Q. Is there anything I can do to boost my fertility?

A. Studies have shown that smoking, being overweight and stress can impact your chances of conceiving. To have the best chance of conceiving you should quit smoking, ensure that you are a healthy weight (BMI or 18.5 – 24.9) and try to eat a healthy, balanced diet. You should reduce the amount of alcohol that you drink and ideally keep all alcohol to a minimum.

Whilst it is not a replacement for a healthy diet, you might want to consider taking a multivitamin designed for pre-conception. For women trying to conceive, 400 micrograms a day of folic acid is recommended to prevent neural tube defects.

Many people find that they feel anxious when trying to conceive.

Ideally you should try and keep your stress levels to a minimum, perhaps by enjoying a hobby or using relaxation techniques.

Q. What causes infertility?

A. Infertility can have a variety of causes but some of the most common reasons for female infertility include: • problems with ovulation • damage to the womb or fallopian tubes • some medicines and drugs • age-related decline Most cases of male infertility are caused by sperm disorders either because there are too few sperm or because they are low quality in terms of motility or shape.

Q. What tests can you do to find out if my partner and I may have difficulty conceiving?

A. One of the first tests we do when we see a female and male couple is to analyse the male partner’s sperm. A normal sperm count for fertilisation is around 15 million per millilitre. More than half the sperm cells need to be motile, and more than 4% a normal shape.

With female patients we carry out an ultrasound scan and run blood tests to determine ovarian reserve, to see if there are any issues that may affect the eggs being released, fertilised or implanted in the womb.

Q. I’ve been told I have unexplained infertility? What does this mean and how can it be treated?

A. One quarter of couples who are having difficulties in conceiving have unexplained infertility. If your tests show that no known cause can be found, then you may be diagnosed with unexplained infertility. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have a child, but it could mean that you might benefit from some assistance to help you to conceive.

Q. If I see a doctor, what will happen in the initial consultation?

A. The first step in fertility treatment - contacting a clinic - is never easy. But remember, you are not alone. You will meet one of our specialists, who will discuss your medical history, advise you of the options available and start to plan your treatment. Usually, some basic tests will be necessary before this consultation - an ultrasound scan for the female partner, and a semen analysis for the male. From these results, doctors will be able to discuss treatment options, the likelihood of success and the costs involved.

Dr Sharma works for The London Women’s Clinic, Essex which is located at The Holly Private Hospital. A wide range of fertility treatments are available with competitive prices and low cost packages.

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HEALTH

Be proud of

Introducing

Dr Richard Marques

YOUR SMILE For more information on Dr Marques and his London based dental practice please see: www.wimpolestreetdental.com 0207 637 1672 Follow @ask_the_dentist @ask_the_dentist

THE celebrity’s C

HOICE

March was another bustling month at the clinic, with a host of celebrity smiles passing through for treatment! It was great to see Jamie Redknapp who popped in for his sixmonth check-up!

who is one of the UK’s leading celebrity dentists and is known as ‘The King of Smiles’.

THIS MONTH’S

product recommendation If you prefer an alternative flavour toothpaste to traditional mint, my ‘Super Strong Teeth Whitening Paste Strawberry’ contains calcium carbonate and silica for a natural tooth whitening experience which won’t cause sensitivity! £24 at www.wimpolestreetdental.com

TOP 10 TIPS

FOR LOOKING AFTER SENSITIVE TEETH

1 2 3 4 5 6 26

Switch to a desensitising toothpaste. The active ingredients can block the tiny holes in the surface of the teeth and act as a shield by calming any exposed nerves.

Cut out any exceptionally hot or cold beverages. Extreme temperatures will trigger sensitivity, so stick to room temperature drinks and use lukewarm water when brushing your teeth.

A cause of the sensitivity could be that you’re grinding your teeth whilst you sleep. Your dentist will be able to fit a night guard for you to wear, which will help prevent further damage.

Ensure you’re using a soft bristled or electric toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions. Aggressive brushing can wear away tooth enamel, exposing teeth to sensitivity.

Use a mouthwash that is high in fluoride and will help strengthen tooth enamel, but that does not contain harsh or abrasive chemicals including alcohol.

Try to avoid acidic food and drink including fruit, vinegar and alcohol. The high sugar content and acidity can cause erosion and damage the enamel – both of which are leading causes of sensitive teeth and gums.

7

Make sure you drink through a straw. In doing so the liquid will bypass the teeth, giving you a better chance at avoiding both damage and sensitivity.

8

Wait at least half an hour after eating or drinking to brush your teeth. This will give the enamel a chance to re-harden.

Brushing too soon could actually push acids deeper into the teeth which can cause erosion.

9

Hold off on any whitening treatments when sensitivity becomes uncomfortable. You can still use natural whiteners such as strawberries and coconut oil to keep your smile bright!

10

Maintaining good overall dental hygiene is the best defence against sensitivity. Brush, floss and rinse thoroughly but carefully twice a day, and visit your dentist every six months for a check-up!

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HEALTH

ONE STOP DOCTORS Introducing

Dr Gulab Chand Rastogi,

Consultant Paediatrician at One Stop Doctors, with special interest in respiratory and cardiac problems, General Paediatrics and a variety of problems affecting infants, children and adolescents.

Our One Stop Doctors private Clinic in Hertfordshire has a team of specialist Paediatricians and child health experts. To book an appointment or find a specialist please call 01442 331 900 or visit onestopdoctors.co.uk.

• Chesty cough. A chesty cough can often affect the small airways.

Recognising this obstruction to the lungs is important as it can also be a sign of Asthma, especially if the cough persists in a child.

• Wet sounding cough. A wet cough is one that produces mucus or phlegm. Often this is the result of congestion or an infection in the airways and can be a good way for a child who is getting over a cold to get rid of excess fluid in the body.

The majority of children can be diagnosed on the basis of their signs and symptoms. In more severe cases, some may require additional testing to determine cause, in which case investigations can include: • Chest X-Ray • Blood test

Dr Rastogi provides insight into coughing and wheezing in children, including symptoms and treatment options.

According to data from the NHS, babies and young children can get around 8 to 10 colds a year! This means having frequent symptoms of cough, infection, runny nose and shortness of breath can be ‘normal’ in most children. Understanding the signs for when these common symptoms may be masking another condition, such as Asthma, are important in understanding when it may be time to see a doctor.

There are many reasons why a child could develop a cough or wheeze including common cold, flu or an infection. This is not unusual considering their developing immune systems and continuous contact with new germs and other children their age at preschool or school.

Dr Rastogi says, “It’s common to see a child or infant with a cough or wheezing. In the majority of cases, most children will recover from a cough within 3 to 4 weeks, however, this can in some instances persist or reoccur.”

“There are various types of persistent coughs children can have including: • Barking cough. A barking cough is a dry, harsh, raspy sound often compared to a dog barking. This is usually caused by problems with the voice box or large bronchial tubes (airways to the lungs).

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“Treatment will depend on the underlying cause for the cough and wheezing. If a cough persists, worsens at night or causes difficulty in breathing then this could also be a sign of Asthma.

If you have any concerns about your child’s cough, then you should see your doctor or ask for a referral.”

New FREE information videos for parents For useful advice and information on common children’s health conditions, watch our latest videos with our Consultant Paediatricians on our One Stop Doctors YouTube channel.

Autism Assessment Now Available Statistics show that around 1 in every 100 people in the UK are affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with more boys being diagnosed with the condition than girls.

The One Stop Doctors team of neuro-developmental specialists are now offering a range of assessments with fixed prices for patients between 2-18 years of age.

Although, there is no ‘cure’ for ASD, often families may need the support of a consultant and/or therapists to help reduce and manage some of the behaviours that present themselves in a child with ASD, such as sleep difficulties, eating difficulties, ADHD and anxiety.

Price £1350 More information can be found online onestopdoctors.co.uk/services/paediatrics/autism @onestopdoctors

Specialist Paediatrics

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Don’t wait for a diagnosis or a treatment solution for your child. At One Stop Doctors we have a team of experts in a wide range of children’s health conditions Cardiac • Neuro-developmental (including Autism and ADHD) Respiratory • Soiling & bedwetting • Crying babies • Paediatric scans Speech & Language Therapy • Physiotherapy • Allergy We’re open 7 days a week, including evenings and weekends

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HEALTH

HOW A VEGAN DIET CAN IMPROVE YOUR MARATHON TRAINING

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here seems to have been a lot of hype to the Vegan diet – or should we say, lifestyle – recently, with the magnitude of Veganuary and a rapidly growing collection of people making the change. With so many athletes now swearing by a Vegan diet as well, maybe it’s something more of us should be looking into?

Evany Ibanez-Banczer, co-director and co-founder of Detox-Fit, and author of “Run, Little Benjamin, Run!” explains why a Vegan diet is not only good for your overall health, but can give you that edge you need in the lead up to the marathon.

Improved Cardiovascular Health

Using meat and dairy products as main sources of protein results in high levels of saturated fats and clogged arteries. A plant-based diet of whole grains, beans, legumes and vegetables, however, will lower cholesterol, clear arteries, decrease plaque in your blood vessels, and provide protein and antioxidants to give you a cardiovascular system that will have you running longer and training harder.

Improved Digestive System

Loading up on calories through meat and dairy can leave you feeling full and bloated – bad news for a runner! A Vegan diet, however, is naturally high in fibre and nutrient rich, which helps support digestive health by keeping your body running smoothly while providing all the nutrition needed for a long race.

Improved By Recovery

The go-to sources to promote recovery are often meat and eggs.

However, these animal products also produce high levels of acidity in the body, which can affect the pH level in your blood and lead to inflammation – thus, impeding recovery.

Plant-based sources of protein, however, react differently in the body, producing an alkaline instead which improves recovery by lowering inflammation.

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Professional Athletes Do It!

Lauren Goss, a professional triathlete who only recently converted to a Vegan diet now swears by it for her training, reporting she now sleeps better, recovers faster, has more energy and less digestive stress.

Scott Jureck, author of “Eat & Run” and a vegan ultra-runner, explains he tried going Vegan purely to run faster and it worked. Running the Minnesota Voyageur 50-mile race three times before he won, Jureck says his Vegan diet was the key difference, after realising he could run smarter by eating smarter.

And finally, Ross Edgley, a professional endurance athlete, who famously ran 30 marathons in 30 days on a treadmill in his kitchen, goes Vegan before all of his events, explaining that animal protein requires more effort to digest and a plant-based diet Is beneficial to his cardiovascular as well as overall health and immune function.

Included in the training packages:

• A free consultation • Body composition analysis • Health, Fitness & Lifestyle analysis • Online nutritional management • Detox-Fit Nutritional Plan • Detox-Fit Diet Plan, including recipes • Around the clock email support • Regular progress tracking and body measurements

As well as nutritional plans and advice, a number of detoxing elements and supplements are available to buy directly from the website. www.detox-fit.com

HEALTH

The KING of Smiles!

By Andrea Georgiou

Part of my journey to having a bright smile is having whiter teeth.

Apparently, certain food and drinks – like coffee and wine (eep! things I love drinking!) – stain your teeth. Good thing dentists have a solution to this: teeth whitening with The King of Smiles!

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r Richard J Marques specializes in Zoom Teeth Whitening which can whiten your teeth up to 8 shades brighter. The treatment uses a low amount of chemicals which also strengthens teeth.

Maintenance is key when it comes to teeth whitening. The dentists advise staying away from staining food or drinks, or if/when you can’t, brush after. Home whitening kits also help keep your whiter teeth pristine.

Dr Richard J Marques’ whitening process begins with a check up where the dentist assesses your teeth. As much as possible patients must have good oral hygiene, otherwise, they might need to first undergo deep scaling or cleaning and then wait until gums are healed and teeth are less sensitive.

The dentists also remind me that front teeth shouldn’t have cavities or restorations. Having tooth restoration, however, doesn’t mean that you can’t have your teeth whitened. It just means that you’d have to replace the restoration after around 2 weeks to match your whiter teeth colour.

Dr. Marques explained the whitening process to me step by step. They made sure to answer all the questions I had.

Annnnnd, here we go!

After prepping me (they gave me this funky eye wear for the procedure, too!), they turned the laser up. I did a 15 minute session under the laser. There was no pain throughout the procedure, just a gorgeous environment, relaxation in the heart of London.

Immediately after the procedure, there were already results!

I couldn’t believe it.

Dr. Marques explained to me that the whitening chemicals put on my teeth are still processing even after the treatment combined with a home whitening kit. It takes around 2 weeks after it stops and then you have your final shade.

Yep, I’m definitely on my way to that perfect smile!

For more information and that King of Smiles contact: www.wimpolestreetdental.com 0207 637 1672 @ask_the_dentist @ask_the_dentist Follow 31

HOT!

What’s

Seema Malhotra Get ready for the return of hit show The Real Housewives of Cheshire.

Star of the show Seema Malhotra has said this series looks set to be their best yet! Speaking of the new series which returns on Monday’s at 10pm on ITVBe Seema said: “Expect a whole lot of drama (as per!), tears, FUN and new friendships.

Another trip away with the girls will also see a rollercoaster of emotions and a whole lot of laughter! This series is a must watch and is definitely the best yet!”

THE SEAMS MIRACLE SEAMS is the UK’s leading hand care brand founded by Karen J Gerrard. Speaking of how the brand was formed Karen comments: “During a Millinery course at the London College Of Fashion, my hands got cut, burnt, sore and dry. I was going to bed at night with antiseptic cream on my cuts, and couldn’t find a beauty cream to help heal and moisturise that wasn’t greasy so I created SEAMS Hand Cream. It was called SEAMS as I was sewing at the time I had that ‘lightbulb’ moment!”

For more info head to www.seamsbeauty.co.uk

HAIR REHAB LONDON Hair Rehab London, the consumer and salon professional hair extensions brand have announced the addition of their new Ultimate Volume Clip-ins.

Featuring 280gsm of quality human hair (a staggering 150gsm more than Hair Rehab London’s Original Clip-ins), this new addition offers a solution to those seeking an ultra-long and head-turning look, with a product that still retains the same premium quality guaranteed by their favourite brand.

Made with 100% human hair of the highest grade and with thickness from root to tip on each strand, the Ultimate Volume Clip-ins are supplied with a multi-laying system of three wefts per row, which provide a flat and comfortable fit on the head.

Initially launching as a capsule collection of six shades, including the very popular ‘Paparazzi Perfect’ and ‘Ice Blonde’, together with new rooted shades ‘Rooted Coachella Blonde, ‘Rooted Supermodel Style and ‘Rooted Bronze’, the brand will roll out an even wider selection of shades later in 2018, including ashy blonde tones such as ‘Steel Blonde’.

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Available now online. New shades are also available to pre-order.

RRP: £249.00. www.hairrehablondon.com.

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE GOSSIP RIGHT HERE AND ON SOCIAL MEDIA @CLOSEUP_UK

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@CLOSEUPMAG

Tanned

TO THE MAX

Celebrity Spray Tanner Chasidy McDowell has sprayed everyone from the Kardashian’s to Jennifer Lopez. Having been a guest at #CocoaChella, the launch event of Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter’s Limited Edition, Festival-inspired 1 HOUR Tan Mousse, she has outlined some top tanning tips especially for the Close Up readers: Top Tanning Tips: 1. In the lead up to your tan application always exfoliate.

2. Use an oil-free moisturiser, such as Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter Chocolate Whip Oil-Free Body Moisturiser on feet, ankles, knees, elbows and hands.

3. Apply petroleum jelly on your eyebrows to prevent tan from discolouring.

4. Always use a tanning mitt to prevent the tan from staining your hands and ensure you have an even application.

5. Use a tan that will suit your skin tone – the Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter 1 HOUR TAN MOUSSE comes in three different shades; Original, Dark and Extra Dark.

6. When showering for the first time after applying your tan use shower gel but don’t exfoliate your skin!

7. When you want to remove your tan, or prepare for the next tanning application exfoliate using a body scrub.

Celebrity Spray Tanner Chasidy McDowell, guest at #CocoaChella, the launch event of Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter’s Limited Edition, Festival-inspired 1 HOUR Tan Mousse

A BOX OF Treats

Birchbox partner with Cath Kidston to celebrate their 25th birthday!

Birchbox, the number 1 beauty box, has partnered with Cath Kidston for the April Birchbox. In celebration of the quintessentially British brands 25th Birthday, subscribers will discover a beautiful box of treats (including something extra special!) to add a little sunshine to the month of April.

To mark Cath Kidston’s special milestone, the April Birchbox has been transformed using a specially designed print, Birthday Rose.

Plus, as part of the five beauty treats inside, everyone will receive a limited-edition Cath Kidston Hand Cream.

Available to only Birchbox subscribers, the exclusive scent and beautiful packaging had been developed to match the April Birchbox perfectly.

Smiles, guaranteed. @birchboxuk www.birchbox.co.uk

FILM INTERVIEW

These stories lead to them growing up a certain kind of adult, so it’s a real honour to work with these kids, and it’s a real honour to sit and listen to them, which is what I wanted when I went to work every day.

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FILM INTERVIEW

Wonder WOMAN

Michelle Williams on her new role, working with younger actors, and how motherhood inspires her.

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f all the cast in 90’s teen drama Dawson’s Creek, there couldn’t have been many that would predict that Michelle Williams would go on to become one of America’s most beloved and successful actresses.

Avoiding the usual route of rom-coms and action movies, the 37-year-old has mainly kept to dramas, wowing audiences with films like My Week With Marilyn, Blue Valentine and recent hit All The Money In The World. The Golden Globe winner is back this month with the imaginative family drama Wonderstruck.

Set in two decades, the film follows two separate but interwoven stories of a young girl in the 1920’s called Rose, looking for her screen idol; and a young boy in the 1970’s named Ben, searching for his estranged father. Michelle Williams plays Ben’s mother in the film, which is directed by Todd Haynes who made the Oscar winning drama Carol.

Williams is in good company in the film, in a cast that includes Oscar winner Julianne Moore.

While the pair didn’t enjoy any screen time together, Williams found a lot of inspiration promoting the film alongside her co-star.

“I love listening to her talk, and I feel like I’ve learned so much!” she beams. “I feel like I just had a little mini Master Acting Class and I’m just like ‘oh yes, that’s so true, I should do that’!” She also has a lot of praise for director Todd Haynes, who made the filming process a smooth one.

“Todd makes the world, Todd frames the world, the script is so precise and correct. So my work with Todd was not so hard!”

things that figure in an early imagination. These stories lead to them growing up a certain kind of adult, so it’s a real honour to work with these kids, and it’s a real honour to sit and listen to them, which is what I wanted when I went to work every day.”

Of course, Wonderstruck is just the latest in a string of successful roles for the star. She recently took the lead in All The Money In The World, which famously had to reshoot extensively following the allegations surrounding Kevin Spacey, and played the wife of Hugh Jackman in The Greatest Showman. The musical has quickly gained a cult following, and Williams couldn’t have been happier to be a part of it.

“My favourite movies growing up were musicals” she said at a promotional event for the film. “They were actually the only movies I was allowed to watch growing up, I must have seen Singin’ In The Rain and The Sound of Music maybe a hundred times each! They’re a part of my psyche and I really enjoy going back to musicals now as a parent and watching them with my family, I was really excited to continue that tradition.”

Being a mother informs the person I want to be, it leaves no area of my life untouched, it’s at the centre of every choice I make.

The film centres on children, reminding one of the old adage ‘never work with children or animals’. That saying doesn’t ring true to Williams, however, as she loved the process. “It’s just about listening, that what it’s like working with kids” she reveals at a press conference for the film. “I like working with kids, and I also like working for kids, making movies that are expressly for children to see, because I remember being that age when you’re so porous and really absorb things on so many levels. I’ve watched it happen with my daughter, so I’ve wanted so much to be a part of that, wanted so much to make

After Wonderstruck, Williams also has a couple of huge movies in the works. She will be part of the comedy I Feel Pretty with Amy Schumer, and playing the ex-wife of Tom Hardy’s character in the highly anticipated Marvel movie Venom. While she can’t reveal too much, she talked about the process of working on the blockbuster in a recent interview. “We’re having fun,” Williams told cinema website Screen Rant. “We’re having fun. For me it’s Tom. I just thought, ‘Well, that guy knows what he’s doing. I’m just going to go steal some of his moves, figure out what he knows.’ You know, you’re only as good as the people you play with and I really wanted to challenge myself with him as a partner.”

Finally, Wonderstruck offered her a chance to draw upon her own life, as mother to 12-year-old Matilda, her child with the late Heath Ledger. “Being a mother informs the person I want to be,” she says. “It leaves no area of my life untouched, it’s at the centre of every choice I make.”

Wonderstruck is released in UK cinemas on 6th April

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EDITORIAL

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All computer users know that there has been a huge increase in Malware and Ransomware attacks. When that happens, clients need expert help, advice and support and fast. Geeks On Wheels can connect to your computer within minutes, and quickly determine if it is infected or at risk of attack. Any virus can be promptly removed, and protective software can be installed.

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Anthony Ryder from Geeks On Wheels provided these top tips for keeping your PC virus free:

1. Think before you click: Don’t open email attachments from an unknown sender. Hover over the link and if the internet address doesn’t match the sender domain, do not click.

2. Keep your operating system up to date: Whether on Windows or Mac, updates are important.

8. Scan USB drives: Before using an unknown USB drive in your PC, get your anti-virus software to scan it to ensure it is clean.

9. Disable image previews: Many email programs like Outlook will automatically download images in an email which could contain malicious code and by downloading the image you may get infected.

10. Make sure your firewall is active: Windows and Mac both have built-in firewalls, but ensure they are switched on.

11. Backup: The biggest threat to data these days is ransomware.

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3. Install Anti-virus software: Regularly check that your anti-virus is installed, up to date and active.

4. Wireless security: Don’t run an open network and ensure you are using WPA or WPA2 security. WEP security is no longer secure.

5. Beware of fake alerts: When browsing the internet if a message appears suggesting your PC is infected/has a problem do not click and do not phone the number.

6. Use an up to date internet browser: Chrome, Firefox or Edge check security when you visit a site.

7. Avoid Cold Callers: If you receive a call informing you there is a problem with your PC, NEVER allow them access to your computer as they could install tools that enable them to steal information.

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INTERVIEW

WILL.I.AM Musician and entrepreneur WILL.I.AM on Michael Jackson, money and jedi dinners.

Guilty pleasure?

I don’t feel guilty about things I enjoy – I’m proud of what I like.

Where is home?

I have a house in Los Angeles, which will always be home, but I’m hardly ever there. By the beginning of February this year, I had already been to China, Japan, San Francisco, New York, Las Vegas, Utah, Davos and London. It’s just my life and I like it.

Career plan B? I’ve never thought about an alternative because I always knew what i was going to do. I think of myself as a conductor, directing all the different parts of my life, whether it’s music, videos, tours or building AI [artificial intelligence]. It’s all an amazing, beautiful symphony.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

I don’t know, maybe he hasn’t been born – I’m not done yet!

Biggest bugbear?

People talking all at once and no one listening to each other or even being aware of it.

Earliest memory?

Trying to get out of my playpen, when I was about six months old. It wasn’t new, so it was probably my brothers before I had it.

Your best qualities?

My imagination and my memory.

And your worst?

I don’t know how to say no. Trying to appease everyone means that eventually you are going to hurt somebody.

Last meal on earth?

Right now, my craving is for muesli. I’m following a healthy eating regime and I like it. I don’t have acid reflux, I don’t feel bloated, I have energy and I don’t struggle to think.

Dream dinner-party guests?

My close friends, who I’ve been having dinners with since we were 20 years old to discuss plans for the future. We call them our jedi dinners.

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Advice to teenage self?

My 13-year-old self is the architect of the life I have now. I pray every day to that 13-year-old and he prays to me, too.

Star struck moment?

Working with Michael Jackson. I didn’t believe it was him when he called me. We became friends for six years before he passed away.

Career highlight?

I haven’t had it yet.

One thing that would make your life better?

Learning to delegate Philosophy?

Turn strangers into friends and friends into family.

Most important lesson you’ve learned about money?

That is doesn’t care – yet. In the future, money is going to be intelligent, advising you how to take care of it so it can take better care of you.

Where would you time travel to?

I want to be here right now so I can learn from the past and design the future.

First record?

Escape by a rap group called Whodini, which my mom bought me for Christmas.

Most extravagant purchase?

A house for my mom, which I paid for partly with the money from a Dr Pepper commercial I did with The Black Eyed Peas.

Celebrity Crush?

I don’t think of celebrities like that, but someone who I really admire is Beyoncé.

Do you have a special relationship with the UK? I love it here – it’s awesome.

Will.i.am’s new book with Brian David Johnson, WaR: Wizards and Robots, is published by Penguin, price £12.99

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INTERVIEW

Alesha DIXON Singer Alesha Dixon gives us the backstage goss on her Britain’s Got Talent co-stars

A

lesha Dixon has certainly been busy this year. The mum to four-year-old Azura has been juggling her work as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent alongside writing and recording her new solo material, which we can’t wait to hear.

When we catch up with the 39-year-old, she admits she’s having a “very hectic day” as she tells all about the Always campaign she’s working on. Alesha also spills the beans on what goes on at BGT between filming, what it’s really like working with prankster Simon Cowell and reuniting with Mis-Teeq…

Hi Alesha! Have you found some great acts for BGT? Yes, brilliant! Usually we’re all a bit nervous about finding enough talent, but we were genuinely spoilt. Every year we can make a prediction about who’s going to win, but this year we couldn’t.

Simon is always winding me up What was your funniest moment while filming?

One day the producers decided we were going to take the Tube to work. Everyone was making such a big deal about it and I was like, “Millions of people do this all the time!” But obviously Amanda and I were in our TV outfits and then we had David dancing around one of the poles, so we were getting the strangest looks.

Who misbehaves most on set?

Simon! He’s quite mischievous and he’s always on the wind-up.

There’s never a dull moment because he’s always looking for that little thing that’s going to make you laugh or trip you up. It’s like being back at school. He tries to draw you into his strange world.

If you got stuck in a lift, which of your co-stars would you want with you?

Amanda. If you’re in a situation like that, you want to be with one of your girls. We would have a lot to talk about and, if it got too hot, we’d be able to strip off!

When we can expect new music from you?

I’ve been in the studio writing. No matter what other projects I take on, I’ll always continue to do music because that’s where my heart and soul is. If there’s a day I’m not working on BGT or being a mum, I’m in the studio.

Could Mis-Teeq ever reunite?

Never say never! The girls and I still have a really good relationship. We’ve always said it would be a lovely thing to do, but it’s finding the right time. Every time I perform, I always do a Mis-Teeq medley and it goes down a storm, which makes me think, “Oh, I must call the girls…”

Are you still in touch with any of the Strictly lot?

Bruno Tonioli and I have a good relationship. It’s one of those things – you see each other every now and again and there’s always love, but I can barely keep up with my mates, let alone everyone I work with! [Laughs]

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Tell us about your work with the Always End Period Poverty campaign…

They approached me about it and I just couldn’t believe some of the figures. Up to 140,000 girls are regularly missing school because they can’t afford sanitary products. We’re asking people to share a throwback picture of themselves and use the hashtag #EndPeriodPoverty. For every post, Always will donate a pad. The idea at the end is to have donated five million pads.

Alesha is supporting Always’ #EndPeriodPoverty campaign.

For every pack sold by April 30, Always will donate a pad to schoolgirls in need.

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LIVING

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Men are looking after themselves a lot more these days and have finally realised that the barber or a dedicated male grooming operation is the best place to go to get a decent haircut and clean shave. Close Up bring you the essentials for that fresh face feeling.

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INTERVIEW

Emma & Rylan ON PRESENTING ‘THIS MORNING’ TOGETHER

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he seasoned presenting duo are set to take over from Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield for the week following Easter - Tuesday 3rd to Friday 6th April. Here, the pair talk exclusively about their very special on screen chemistry.

Rylan admits he’s glad to be “coming home” and he opens up about Strictly. While Emma reveals that she would love to host the show with husband Matt Willis. And she talks about how she almost went into medicine instead of television!

RYLAN Are you excited to be presenting This Morning with Emma Willis?

We’ve never presented This Morning together. She’s like my big sister at work. I love Emma to bits and it’s really nice to work together away from Big Brother and bring our chemistry to a different show. Me and Emma always think the same things, we’re always on the same page.

We have our little tells together and can give each other a little look.

We do make each other laugh too. One time there was a spider that had come down from the ceiling in the studio and we were both behind the sofas, in a state. With me and Emma, definitely anything can happen. We often go off piste too and that makes us laugh.

work with Rebel Wilson on a film and we got on really well. I would say her!

What are the best and worst things about presenting with Emma?

My first big job in TV was Big Brother. Emma helped me so much in the early days. She always made me feel comfortable. I would go to her every day and ask her what to do. Then there came a point where I didn’t need to do that anymore. It was like a graduation. I took her advice on board. We make each other laugh, we get on really well and we know when we need to be serious. We just enjoy working together.

The worst thing is she’s so pretty. Plus she always ends up having the same haircut as me! Sometimes on Big Brother, the first time I see her is when she walks down the stairs on my show as we are so busy in the day. We have this weird moment when we realise we are wearing the same thing. If she’s in a blue dress, I’ll be in a blue

HOSTING THIS MORNING IS LIKE COMING HOME.

Do you still get the jitters before hosting the live show? I think I’ve only ever done live TV. I get more nervous RYLAN with pre-recorded stuff because I never know what’s going to make the edit.

Live TV is second nature now. My most nervous, though I guess, is hosting This Morning, because there’s a very fine line between my ‘This Morning brain’ and my ‘late night brain’. You can forget sometimes. I’ve hosted This Morning about 40 or 50 times now with everyone from Holly, Ruth, Phil, Geri, Lorraine, Alison, so I feel like I know what I’m doing. It’s a bit like coming home.

What have you enjoyed the most during your time at This Morning?

As a presenter, it was the first time I hosted the show with Ruth. I’d been part of the family for three or four years at that point and they said, ‘We want you to host it.’ I was 26 or 27 and I couldn’t believe it.

It’s a show I’ve grown up with. I’m the same age as the show. I’m 30 in October too, so me and This Morning share a birthday. To host this iconic show, that was a real moment. Another surreal moment for me was interviewing Richard and Judy in the Hub. Presenting with Geri was incredible too. She’s a Spice Girl!

RYLAN Who else would I like to present with? I did once

I’M A BIG FAN OF STRICTLY. NEVER SAY NEVER!

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INTERVIEW blazer. Whenever she’s had her hair done, we point at each other and say ‘You’ve done it again. We look the same’. It’s odd. We’ve got this synergy thing going on. She’s so pretty she makes you look like a dog.

How do you prepare for hosting a show like This Morning?

I’m really naughty. I like to host the show as if I’m the viewer. I want to ask the questions you would ask if you were sitting watching at home.

Every morning we get a briefing pack on everyone on the show. I skim it. For example, I know Jean is a nurse, she won the lottery, she hasn’t been on holiday for 10 years - then I’ll stop. I just want to know the gist.

I want to respond and ask what the viewer needs to know. I don’t want to skip ahead. I want things to be more natural. I worry I might go off on something else because I already know the story.

What are your fondest This Morning memories - as both a viewer and as a presenter? As a viewer, Midday Money! But as a presenter, the first thing that comes to mind, and is my most vivid memory, is the time we had to try chilli vodka! I’ve never burnt my throat before, even on a curry, let alone on a drink. Phil and I had to drink it on the show and I’ll never forget that day!

Emma Willis and Rylan Clark-Neal are hosting This Morning Tuesday 3rd to Friday 6th April. Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford will be hosting the show the following week, Monday 9th to Friday 13th April.

EMMA What is it like helming such an iconic show? It is very exciting because I’ve watched it ever since I can remember, but at the same time it’s very nerve-wracking - because it’s done so brilliantly day in day out by Holly and Phil, you just don’t want to go in there and let the team down in any way.

Watch Emma Willis and Rylan Clark-Neal on This Morning Tuesday to Friday on ITV from 10.30am

What are you most nervous about? I still get the jitters before live TV but also the same jitters before non-live TV too! I like the jitters though because it keeps you on your toes. It’s a little bit of an adrenaline rush which is what’s exciting about it – it’s like excitable nerves I suppose.

It’s just an institution, This Morning, it’s genuinely a privilege to be allowed to sit on that sofa, because its been on our screens and in our lives for such a long time.

How is presenting with Rylan different from, say, presenting with Phillip? Presenting with Phillip is lovely but if I’m honest I get a little bit starstruck! I’ve hosted it with him before, and I was a bit like, ‘I’ve grown up watching him on telly’. He’s been in my life for a long time and then all of a sudden someone asks if you want to host a show with him and in my head I’m just thinking, ‘Are you kidding, that’s Phillip Schofield, I can’t do that!’ He’s a legend. So it’s a bit scary but he is so supportive, he really goes out of his way to help you along and hold your hand through the whole thing, so it’s always great working with him because you learn a lot from him every time.

With Rylan, it’s always lovely for me because I know him so well and we’ve worked together so much that its very normal for me to be standing by his side on telly. I’m really looking forward to doing This Morning with him. We’ve worked together for ages but we’ve never done This Morning together so I’m really looking forward to it.

I WOULD LOVE TO HOST THE SHOW WITH HUSBAND MATT!

You’ve obviously worked closely with EMMA Rylan for years, what’s the best and worst things about working together? The best thing about working with Rylan is that you never know what he is going to say or do, and the worst thing about working with Rylan is that you never know what he is going to say or do! And even though they are the same thing, the best thing about that far outweighs the worst thing because I love spontaneity and he is very spontaneous.

Holly and Phillip are famed for giving each other the giggles, is this something that happens with Rylan too? We always giggle. We giggle a lot! He just has to look at me in a certain way and it will make me laugh because I know just by his look exactly what he is thinking. I love it when Phil and Holly get the giggles, that’s part of This Morning’s brilliance because as a viewer you are just thinking, ‘Ohh, what’s going on in their heads that they can’t say on camera?’

Rylan has done the show opposite his husband. Would you consider co-hosting with your husband Matt? Would you bicker? Yes, totally, I’ve worked with Matt before and it would be fun to do that again. I don’t think we would bicker, I think he’d probably just let me be in charge if it was a presenting thing.

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FILM INTERVIEW

Daisy

RIDLEY The Star Wars hero talks about film knowledge, and being an icon for young girls.

S

tar Wars: The Last Jedi was one of the biggest films of 2017, and at the centre of this new Star Wars Universe is young English actress Daisy Ridley. A relative unknown before she was cast as Rey in 2015’s Star Wars The Force Awakens, she’s now an international name and dealing with everything that comes with that – including sequels! This second film in the new trilogy sees Rey coming to learn the ways of The Force from the great Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill).

The first film was a gigantic hit pulling in over $2billion in Box Office revenue, however she admits to feeling nervous about this new instalment. “Even though you try to avoid what people are saying, it’s hard to” she says at a press conference for the film. “People were responding well to John (Boyega) and I as a team, I was a bit nervous about not being a team so much in this one. So for me personally it was more of a challenge, to be in different combinations of people”.

I don’t have a big film knowledge or anything, I never understood the structure of what Star Wars was and what everyone was trying to fulfil. But speaking as just me watching the film, I think you can really follow the story because you’re with every character.

Everything you need to see is happening on screen.

However, she was pleased with the finished result and believes it will appeal to Star Wars fans and newcomers alike. She also confesses to not being an expert on the sci-fi franchise. “I don’t have a big film knowledge or anything, I never understood the structure of what Star Wars was and what everyone was trying to fulfil” she says. “But speaking as just me watching the film, I think you can really follow the story because you’re with every character. Everything you need to see is happening on screen.”

She has also received a lot of praise for Rey’s status as a lead female character that young girls can look up to. “As a girl growing up in London, I knew there was a disparity in films, but I wasn’t truly aware of it, growing up in a liberal household” she explains.

“So when I got involved (with Star Wars) I knew it was a big deal, but the response was so beyond what I ever could have imagined. It was only afterwards that I could appreciate it, it’s not like I took it for granted or anything but the response was just so monumental, the way people felt about it.”

Star Wars: The Last Jedi is out on DVD 9th April.

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Ranked 2nd in The Sunday Times League Table for small independent schools (2017)

OPEN MORNINGS/TASTER DAYS Nursery Open Mornings - every Wednesday at 9.30am Prep School Open Morning - Wednesday 25th April - 9.30am - 11am Taster Day for Senior School entry - Friday 18th May - 10am - 3pm Personal Tours of the School are available on request Please call, email or visit our website to book a place prior to visiting **Some places may be available for September 2018 entry**

Palmers Green High School, 104 Hoppers Road, London N21 3LJ Nursery, 85 Wellington Road, Enfield, EN1 2PL Tel: 020 8886 1135 www.pghs.co.uk Email:office@pghs.co.uk

Orley Farm School, Harrow Breadth, Balance & Excellence…

Tim Calvey took over the Headship of Orley Farm School in 2013 having previously been, amongst other teaching positions, Head of Boarding in two previous schools. He believes that at the heart of the Orley Farm experience is the passion in teachers to light fires in the minds of young people that burn for a lifetime!

“Whilst we are academically selective, we are also looking for that edge, a spark, the unique in every pupil to foster and celebrate, because the last time I looked, academic credentials guarantee very little. It’s a brave new world out there and emotional intelligence is gold dust!”

Orley Farm School is home to 500 girls and boys aged 4 to 13 who are receiving an extraordinary educational experience that develops the whole child preparing them for future success in an ever-changing world.

Fulfilment and happiness start with a deep love of learning and over their time with us, through our unique ‘Thinking Skills Programme’, children will develop their resilience, curiosity, empathy, risk-taking, good judgement, creativity, initiative, focus, flexibility of mind and ambition.

We are very proud that we find the right senior school for each individual and over the past five years 290 pupils have been offered 199 Scholarships to 59 different schools.

‘Breadth, Balance & Excellence…The Orley Farm Way!’ We look forward to welcoming you to one of our Wednesday Open Mornings or on Saturday 12th May 2018 at 10:00.

Please contact the Registrar on 0208 869 7634 www.orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

South Hill Avenue Harrow on the Hill Middlesex HA1 3NU Tel: 020 8869 7600

Email: office@orleyfarm.harrow.sch.uk

FOREST SCHOOL’S DIAMOND STRUCTURE – The best of both worlds

F

orest School is a London school like no other, a city school set within 50 acres of grounds, surrounded by Epping Forest.

Forest is London’s only diamond structure school.

From the age of 4, boys and girls are taught together in the Pre-Preparatory School. Pupils then experience single-sex teaching from age 7 to 16, before joining co-educational classes at 16 for Sixth Form study. Unlike in single-sex schools, boys and girls can spend time together during breaks and after school using the same social areas and engaging in co-educational co-curricular activities. A diamond structure school offers all the academic benefits of single-sex teaching with all ‘The diamond the social benefits of a co-educational school – the best of all worlds.

structure gives us all the academic advantages of single sex education and all the social advantages of co-education.

The best of both worlds.’

activities as well as define themselves as individuals. With co-curricular opportunities for all, there is never an excuse to be bored!

At Forest School, pupils are continually stretched and challenged. We have Forest School is widely known for its a broad curriculum which promotes outstanding pastoral care and aims to academic excellence whilst also produce well-rounded young men and pushing pupils to discover their own women who become the very best potential and abilities, recognising that versions of themselves and then go on there are different paths to success. to make a difference in the world. In the The happy, inclusive atmosphere at our – Marcus Cliff Hodges, Senior School, all our pupils are divided school is a result of the success of our into 14 Houses of approximately Forest School approach, as is the high proportion of 80 pupils, 7 Houses each for boys our pupils who go on to further study at and girls. The Housemasters and leading universities. With courage and independence, we are Housemistresses are key figures in the lives of pupils and rising to the challenge of educating young people to be not their families, offering ongoing support and expert guidance only well-informed and knowledgeable, but most importantly in academic, pastoral and co-curricular areas. Our small of all, confident life-long learners. tutor groups enable us to target age-appropriate support Forest offers a wide range of co-curricular activities from horse to boys and girls and we welcome regular communication with parents and appreciate the importance of a positive and riding to chess, technology to debating, drama and musical activities to the best sporting offerings. We believe that pupils trusting relationship between school, pupils and parents. who involve themselves in the co-curriculum often excel Forest School is committed to attracting the ablest and most not only academically but also personally and therefore we talented pupils and offers academic and non-academic constantly undertake new measures to improve our program scholarships at 11+, 13+ and 16+. The maximum nonand make sure it is customised to the pupils at the School. To means-tested fee remission awarded in respect of any one encourage our pupils to keep trying new things we developed pupil is 50% of full fees. Pupils who are awarded scholarships The Forest Portfolio – a journal of a pupil’s co-curricular may also qualify for bursarial assistance. achievements from Year 7 through to Sixth Form. We believe it helps our pupils develop their interests, to embrace new www.forest.org.uk

Summer Open Evening Monday, 25 June 2018 4.30pm - 7.00pm

London’s only diamond structure school with single-sex teaching in a co-educational environment for girls and boys aged 4-18.

We are a city school with 30 acres of grounds where north east London meets Epping Forest.

www.forest.org.uk | admissions@forest.org.uk 020 8520 1744 | E17 3PY

FOOD

FULL OF flavour Tickle your taste buds and try out our top two recipes this month!

Smoked salmon, dill & lemon linguine Preparation time: 5 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Total time: 20 minutes Serves: 2 Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 fennel bulb (about 160g), hard core removed, finely diced and any fronds reserved 150g linguine ½ lemon, zest and juice 75g essential Waitrose Reduced Fat Soft Cheese 100g pack Waitrose Mild Scottish Oak Smoked Salmon, cut into strips Handful chopped dill Method 1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and gently sautÊ the fennel with a pinch of salt for 10-12 minutes until softened and just starting to turn golden.

2. Bring a separate large pan of salted water to the boil, add the linguine and simmer for 9 minutes. Just before draining, scoop out and reserve a large mug of the cooking water, then drain the pasta.

3. Add the lemon zest and 1 tbsp juice, the soft cheese and 100ml cooking water to the fennel, stirring to combine Cook’s tip over a high heat. Take off the The pasta cooking heat, toss the linguine through water contains lots of the sauce, then stir through the starch, which helps to salmon, dill and any reserved create a silky, creamy fennel fronds. Divide between sauce to coat the strands of the plates, season with black pepper linguine. and serve immediately.

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FOOD

Warm herb salad with chorizo & butter beans Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Total time: 30 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients 120g cooking chorizo ring, cut into 0.5cm rounds 400g can butter beans, rinsed and drained 300g pack fine green beans, trimmed and halved 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 echalion shallot, finely sliced 2 tbsp nonpareille capers, rinsed and drained 2 tbsp sultanas 1 tbsp sherry vinegar 25g pack Waitrose Cooks’ Ingredients Flat Leaf Parsley 28g pack Waitrose Cooks’ Ingredients Coriander Large handful of mint leaves, shredded Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180˚C, gas mark 4.

Spread the chorizo rounds out on a roasting tray and roast for 5 minutes until the oil starts to release. Toss in the butter beans and roast for a further 10 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, blanch the green beans in a pan of boiling water, drain and refresh in cold water, then set aside on kitchen paper. Heat the oil in a pan over a medium heat. Add the shallot, capers and sultanas and fry, stirring regularly for 6-8 minutes. Add the sherry vinegar, then take off the heat.

3. Rinse the herbs and pat dry with kitchen paper, then toss in a bowl with the green beans. Using a slotted spoon, lift the chorizo and butter beans out of the tray Cook’s tip and add to the bowl.

For a meat-free version Tumble everything of this salad, try roasting onto a serving plate the beans in a little oil, then and spoon over the adding a salty cheese, dressing to serve. such as crumbled feta or shaved pecorino, instead of chorizo.

Recipes and images courtesy of Waitrose. Find over 5000 recipes at www.waitrose.com

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EDITORIAL

THE

ORGANIC LARDER from nature’s larder to the table rgb: 110/113/118 cmyk: 56/44/39/25

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UP CLOSE WITH HEAD CHEF CHRIS GAMBLIN FROM THE ORGANIC LARDER ESSEX My passion for exciting, good food very much came as second nature to me.

Cookery has been a huge part of my life, having been influenced from a very young age from my parents, who had me in the kitchen as soon as I could climb onto the kitchen counter. Yes you guessed it I was the classic finger in the cake bowl kind of child. I also got the food bug from my grandparents, who were in the industry themselves and who’s love for food was unquestionable.

Food to me has always been about bringing people together, being wowed by taste and creating fond memories. This is something I strive to create in every dish I produce. Some of my fondest memories are family gatherings around the rickety old dining room table, fighting for Nan’s Sunday roast before it barely dropped from her oven cloth! Nan’s roast was by far the best in the world. An opinion I am sure that is the same in many households, only mine is actually true.

Throughout my 14 years in the industry I have built up an exciting repertoire of appointments from the higher end restaurants in Essex all the way to 2 Michelin star establishments in and around the London area. Words could not encapsulate the sheer joy I have experienced working under such great names as Raymond Blanc, Tom Kerridge and Marcus Wareing. Not to mention working

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alongside many innovative, passionate young chefs who are part of the next generation of culinary talent.

The Organic Larder has been founded on the concept of delivering fresh healthy food and drink from sustainable sources. To achieve this all our ingredients been responsibly sourced from both local suppliers and from select outlets across the UK. We have a huge passion for food and are driven by the desire to get people eating better and therefore living longer. All our meals are freshly prepared each day and are free from any additives, preservatives or colourings. Our meals are healthy and nutritious, yet there is never any compromise on flavour, presentation or taste.

Our commitment to you is that we work with only the very best organic, and natural artisan food and drink producers available.

From our cold-pressed juice suppliers in Essex, our coffee producers in central London, to our fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers in Middlesex and central London; our sourcing is done with energy and passion to ensure we deliver only the very best for our customers.

Keeping up with the modern food trend is very important to me and The Organic Larder was presented to me recently whilst in search of the next stage of my career. The prospect of being involved with such a new, modern take on casual dining, bringing people together in a health-conscious way (the very reason I fell for the industry) was too greater opportunity to turn down.

I personally take no greater pride than creating enjoyment through my dishes and I love seeing people returning over and over again, taking advantage of what is truly a unique little gem in the heart of Essex.

176C Queens road buckhurst hill essex IG9 5BD

020 3490 9740 www.theorganiclarder.co.uk 62

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THE

ORGANIC LARDER BREAKFAST LUNCH AFTERNOON TEA

from nature’s larder to the table

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176C Queens road buckhurst hill essex IG9 5BD

020 3490 9740 www.theorganiclarder.co.uk follow us on instagram

REVIEW

DREAMGIRLS REVIEW

– FANTASTIC RIDE ON THE SHOWBIZ ROLLERCOASTER Moya Angela gives a gutsy performance in the Broadway musical that bursts with snappy numbers and tight dance routines.

F

rom the first swish of a lime-green, sequinned fishtail skirt to the megawatt smiles of ambitious girl group the Dreamettes and the shiny suits of their manager, a former Cadillac salesman, Dreamgirls is a musical full of sparkle. It’s less about the grit and sweat of the struggle to the top, more a fantastically entertaining ride on the showbiz rollercoaster, accompanied by some brilliantly belting voices.

Casey Nicholaw (Aladdin, The Book of Mormon) directs the Broadway show, 35 years after the original show by Henry Krieger and Tom Eyen, which was adapted for a 2006 film starring Jamie Foxx and Beyoncé Knowles. The story follows a wide-eyed trio hoping to harmonise their way to stardom. Their talented lead singer, Effie (played by Moya Angela), is sidelined when pretty, pop-friendly Deena is chosen to front the group. It’s clearly inspired by the real story of Diana Ross and the Supremes.

This is a tale of transformation: from naive hopefuls into jaded superstars, from raw R&B into the disco era, from success to failure, and then back again. Tim Hatley’s sets are constantly on the move, creating a succession of stages, dressing rooms and recording studios.

Gregg Barnes’s costumes, dipped in an acid palette and a truckload of sequins, track the movement of time, gown by gown (with some awesome quick changes).

Moya is a real star in the West End show, the voice huge and effortless, her no-nonsense Effie a woman who knows her worth but is all too easily made vulnerable by love. Asmeret Ghebremichael is baby of the group Lorrell, trying on sassy confidence but desperately insecure underneath as she longs for commitment from swivel-hipped sex

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machine Jimmy (Tosh WanoghoMaud, showing off fantastic voice and comic chops).

The athleticism on display, in synchronised dance moves that conjure some of the silliness as well as the sexiness of the Sixties and Seventies, is as joyous as it is unflagging. No one seems to break into a sweat. Asmeret Ghebremichael as the disreputable womanising Jimmy Early, a pelvic-thrusting charmer in the James Brown mould, sends his legs into entertainingly electrified spasms and somehow manages to hold a note and attempt the splits at the same time.

What does this show fundamentally offer?

Tremendous gusto of soul and gaiety of spirit. www.dreamgirlswestend.com

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6 ASHFIELD PARADE, SOUTHGATE, LONDON N14 5AB

FILM REVIEW We’ve got a preview of the biggest film of the summer as The Avengers return, plus the best and worst of the movies out this month.

A QUIET PLACE ★★★★★

Out 5th April

Emily Blunt stars with her husband John Krasinski (who also directs) as a couple who must keep completely quiet in their house as making even the slightest noise can attract the demons that haunt it. With many horror films providing cheap, empty scares, this manages to be quite chilling while also having something to say. The cast make for much more than personality-free victims, something that makes their peril seem all the more terrifying. Not quite up there with the likes of Get Out (now the new standard), but a solid scary movie nonetheless.

DEATH WISH ★★★★★

Out 6th April

Bruce Willis remakes the notorious 1970’s film Death Wish, taking over Charles Bronson as a man who takes the law into his own hands after his family are brutally murdered. A grizzly and tacky remake, starring an actor who has clearly given up trying to be the star we all remember. He mumbles his way through a story that’s little more than silly wish fulfillment pitting him against two dimensional villains. There have been many terrible remakes, so it’s difficult to call this the worst. However, it probably is the most forgettable.

WONDERSTRUCK ★★★★★

Out 6th April

Todd Haynes (Carol) directs a sweet story about two children from different decades – a girl in the 1920’s searching for her movie idol, and a boy in the 70’s looking for his dad – whose journeys interweave in unexpected ways. As well as two likable child leads, superstars Julianne Moore and Michelle Williams also round out the cast. While the criss-crossing timelines can make the journey a bit bumpier than we’d like, this is a surprisingly sensitive story about childhood, told by someone who doesn’t feel the need to dumb things down.

EVERY DAY ★★★★★

Out 20th April

Can you love a person’s soul, even if it shifts into a different body every day? That’s the wacky premise of this teen dramedy, about a girl who falls in love with a being that takes over a different body every day. The deeper message about loving someone beneath the superficial gets a little bit lost in the montages and hip soundtrack, but compares to most mushy teen movies this at least attempts to be different.

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FILM REVIEW

TULLY ★★★★★

BEAST Out 20th April

Charlize Theron steals the show once again in a film from the director and writer of Juno. She plays an overwrought mother who is gifted a nanny named Tully (Mackenzie Davis) who helps her with taking care of her kids, and changes her perspective in the process. A refreshing look at motherhood and the challenges modern women face balancing their various roles, Theron makes the film far more than the sum of its parts with a blisteringly human performance. It’s likely to be a favourite for all the Mums currently experiencing sleepless nights!

★★★★★

Out 27th April

A British romantic drama set on a small island, where a young woman (Jessie Buckley) stifled by her family falls for a mysterious outsider (Johnny Flynn). When he is implicated in a series of murders, however, she must choose between the evidence and her feelings. A feminist revision of the classic ‘dangerous romance’ story line, Buckley is incredible in a film that has its bumps but never allows you to be bored. Musician and actor Flynn also shines, making an excellent case for both actors to be called up by Hollywood.

ALSO OUT THIS MONTH…

RAMPAGE Out 13th April He’s fought dinosaurs, earthquakes, demons and even Vin Diesel, but now Dwayne The Rock Johnson is caught in a battle between a giant ape and the government! It’s an adaptation of the classic video game, about an ape that is mysteriously infected with a chemical that makes him grow exponentially. Basically it’s a chance to watch computer animated monsters tear up a city fighting each other, but given Johnson’s status as the biggest movie star in the world this should be a huge draw for his fan base.

AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR Out 20th April It’s the end of The Avengers! Ok, probably not, but as they face off against their greatest enemy yet, alien warlord Thanos (Josh Brolin), the chances are Earth’s mightiest heroes will look very different once they come out of this ‘war’. For now, at least, it will be the most crowded Marvel film yet, featuring the entire cast of previous films joined by Guardians of The Galaxy, Black Panther, and more. However, with rumours of several cast members making their final bow, the question is who in the superhero super group will survive?? Find out on the 20th.

Agree? Disagree? Tweet us @closeupmag #CloseUpFilm

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FOOD

It’s all

Greek to me

This month, Close Up has teamed up with Tonia Buxton to reveal some of her exclusive recipes from her publication, ‘The Real Greek Cook Book.’ Here are some of our favourite dishes…

The Real Greek Cook Book by Tonia Buxton out now £20 Blink Publishing

Chicken skewers Skewers of tender marinated chicken grilled with peppers and onions, with irresistible lemon mayo on the side for dipping! For a healthier option you can always opt for tzatziki instead.

The great thing with meze is that nothing is set in stone and dishes are so interchangeable – a relaxed and healthy way of eating.

Serves: 4–6 Ingredients 6 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 3cm chunks 1 small red pepper, deseeded 1 small yellow pepper, deseeded 1 red onion

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For the marinade: 2 tbsp. olive oil 2 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tsp. freshly chopped rosemary 1 tsp. freshly chopped thyme leaves 1 tsp. ground paprika Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper To serve: 300g lemon mayonnaise 75g onion and cabbage garnish 2 tsp. ladolemono Method 1. In a large bowl, mix together the ingredients for the marinade.

Season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken chunks, coating them well, then marinate for at least 1 hour, but preferably longer. (Ideally overnight in the fridge).

2. Cut the peppers (if following the advice above) into 2cm pieces. Quarter the onion and cut the leaves into 2cm pieces.

3. Soak 6 wooden skewers to prevent them from charring. When ready to cook, thread the chicken, peppers and onion alternately onto the skewers.

Season with salt and pepper.

4. Cook under a medium-hot grill or in a griddle pan for 8-10 minutes, turning every couple of minutes and basting with any remaining marinade.

5. Cut each skewer in half and arrange crossways on individual serving plates. Serve with a small pot of lemon mayonnaise, a drizzling of ladolemono and a spoonful of onion and cabbage garnish.

FOOD

Eat Greek for a Week by Tonia Buxton out now ÂŁ16.99 Blink Publishing

Feta, avocado & peach salad Serves: 4-6 Ready in: 30 minutes Ingredients 4 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 300g bulgur wheat 1 red chilli 150g baby spinach leaves 4 spring onions 30g fresh coriander Zest and juice of 1 lime 2 red peppers, deseeded and sliced 2 peaches, sliced 1 ripe avocado, stoned and cut into chunks 100g feta, crumbled Lime wedges, to garnish

Method 1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and cook the onion until softened but not coloured. Add the bulgur wheat and pour on 600ml hot water. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat to a low simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.

2. Meanwhile place the chilli, spinach, spring onion, coriander stalks and leaves (holding back a handful of leaves to garnish) into a food processor with 2 tbsp olive oil and the zest of 1 lime. Blitz to a salsa (or finely chop by hand). Stir into the bulgur wheat.

3. On a preheated griddle, cook the peppers and peaches for 5–6 minutes until lightly charred and softened.

4. Arrange the bulgur wheat onto plates and scatter the griddled peach and peppers on top. Add the avocado and feta. Drizzle on a little oil and serve garnished with a lime wedge.

TRAVEL

A Whirl Around ISTANBUL Welcome to one of the greatest cities of the world, a real Turkish delight!

L

ord Byron arrived in Seraglio Point Istanbul on 13th May 1810 and wrote: “I have traversed a great part of Turkey and many other parts of Europe, and some of Asia, but I never beheld a work of nature or art, which yielded an impression like the prospect on each side, from the seven towers to the end of the Golden Horn”.

In this shrinking world, few places just 3 ½ hours flying time from the UK still hold the mystique of Istanbul. Geographically and politically just outside the increasingly homogenised European community, the city has in many ways remained unchanged for the last 200 years. Tea vendors, carpet traders, spice sellers and many more trawl the city eking out a meagre living in the dusty bustling streets and bazaars.

Cistern, Egyptian Bazaar and Turkish baths for example, are all within a short stroll of the hotel.

Head first for the Sultanahmet Square for a view of the Blue mosque and the Haghia Sophia. This Byzantium church built over 1400 years ago contains several glorious figurative mosaics. Just to one side of Sultanahmet Square lies the site of the Hippodrome, a stadium once the centre of the Byzantine city of Constantinople, and thought to have held 100,000 spectators. The site now contains a public garden and little remains except the road that runs round the outside almost directly following the line of the chariot racing track! Three impressive obelisks form part of this quiet park area – like all park areas in Istanbul ablaze with floral displays.

Geographically and politically just outside the increasingly homogenised European community, the city has in many ways remained unchanged for the last 200 years.

The Sapphire Hotel is situated in the Seraglio Point district and is within 10 minutes’ walk of the major city sites, tram and ferry terminals. The hotel provided useful complimentary transportation from the airport with drinks and Turkish delight on arrival. This quality of service, hospitality and attention to detail continues throughout. The room rate includes a choice of continental and typical Turkish breakfast and with a swimming pool, sauna and Turkish bath cleverly built underground, the hotel offers exceptional value.

Must-see places are the Blue mosque, Grand Bazaar and the Topkapi Palace (don’t miss the Old Harem and the Treasury). A good guide book is essential if you are to make the most of these and other many hidden gems within a short period of time. The Basilica

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Using the city’s efficient transportation system, it’s possible to travel extensively throughout the city. The tram system is easy to navigate and by purchasing tokens from kiosks adjacent to tram and metro stations for just 1 ½ Turkish Lira, it’s possible to travel as far as Beyoglu in the Istiklal Caddesi district. Be wary however of travelling short distances in the yellow cabs as these can prove expensive, largely unnecessary and certainly not for the faint hearted.

The topography of the city is such that sprawling vistas are few and far between; an exception being the view overlooking the Bosphorus from the Topkapi Palace gardens and the view from the Galata tower in Beyoglu. If time allows, a cruise up the Bosphorus offers the best opportunity to view the city land marks as Byron had done 200 years

TRAVEL

ago. Turkish Maritime Lines offer a round trip service once or twice a day stopping at 6 points up to Anadolu Kavagi where the Bosphorus meets the Black Sea, stopping and allowing time for lunch before returning on the same boat or by Dolmus, a shared taxi which follows a fixed route at a fixed price. If time is really short, many shorter trips are available, these can be picked up on the harbour where touts will direct you to smaller pre-arranged tour boats.

For the gastronomes, Istanbul is a veritable treasure trove: restaurants and small kebab houses line nearly every street. The most common are the traditional lokanta restaurants offering a variety of dishes often displayed on boards near their entrance or indeed in large bain-marie in full view of the passers-by.

Traditional meals typically consist of a selection of mezes followed by a wide choice of fresh fish, kebabs and stews served with salad.

Baklava and Kadayif desserts made from filo pastry, nuts and honey are to die for. This followed by an intense Turkish coffee makes every evening an adventure in itself. Try the national alcohol drink Raki, an anise flavoured spirit similar to Pernod. With a tax of 400%, wine can

be expensive and in some establishments unavailable. If you feel you may require wine or beer with your meal check before entering the establishment as the general sale of alcohol is not widely promoted – beyond the main tourist areas.

Try the Khorasani restaurant on Ticarethane Sokak, a restaurant offering a mouth-watering selection of mezes of the season served with Pide bread followed by a delicious main course.

Perhaps the highlight of your trip would be a show presented by a group of the Mevlevi Order better known as the Whirling Dervishes.

Many restaurants present shows for the tourists which include a meal. However these can be expensive costing as much as £35 to £45 each. Twice a week a show is presented at the old terminus of the Orient Express, not cheap but presented in the vestibule of the old railway station with its atmospheric backdrop somehow added to the solemnity of this ancient religious ceremony and reminded us how exotic, exciting and vibrant this city is and how rewarding it can be.

Details of the Sapphire Hotel can be found on www.booking.com

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FILM INTERVIEW

Anthony MACKIE The Avengers actor talks best friends, and what he likes most about his character.

T

he Avengers face their greatest threat yet as they come up against villain Thanos in Infinity War, a film that brings all the heroes together from the Marvel Universe, including Anthony Mackie’s Falcon. The 39-year-old, who first came to prominence in films such as 8 Mile and The Hurt Locker, will be reprising the character for the fifth time, having first appeared in Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

While he has received a lot of praise for being the first African American Marvel Universe superhero, for Mackie the role represents many different things. “The Falcon represents a lot of different aspects of our society today that I feel can sometimes be misinformed and misused” he says at a press conference for the film. “The fact that he’s a military veteran, that’s something I’m very proud of as well. The fact that he was a counsellor for soldiers at the VA hospital before he teamed up with Captain America, that’s something that I’m proud of as well and something that we added to make him more of a relatable, stronger character.”

The fact that he was a counsellor for soldiers at the VA hospital before he teamed up with Captain America, that's something that I'm proud of as well and something that we added to make him more of a relatable, stronger character.

The role has seen him propelled from a celebrated character actor to world famous blockbuster star, something that isn’t without its challenges. “For me, the biggest challenge is once you get in this realm of Marvel Superhero Movies, it’s harder for you to be considered for those smaller, independent movies” he explains. “It’s like ‘oh you’re a movie star now, you wouldn’t want to do this!’ But many of the films I’ve made started out small – The Hurt Locker was a small movie. No one was fighting for that movie, because there was no money and it was in the desert. We were the only idiots that took it! But it worked out!”

Finally, for anyone who wonders if the Avengers all get on, it seems that the bond between the Captain America cast seems to be very strong. “I would say (Chris Evans and Sebastian Stan)” Mackie says when asked which cast mates he’s closest too, “and not just because they’re here, they know I’d tell them if I hated them! I talk to (them) more than the other cast, I mean we talk daily if not every other day.”

Avengers: Infinity War is in cinemas 26th April.

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PROPERTY 020 8886 8472 www.closeupuk.com

APRIL 2018

Supplement

PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

The

PROPERTY CLOSE UP SIT DOWN WITH KNIGHTS RESIDENTIAL’S DINO STYLIANOU TO DISCUSS ALL THINGS MARKETING AND MORE!

PROPERTY NEWS YOUR MUST-READ MONTHLY ROUND-UP PROPERTY GIANTS PUBLISH GENDER PAY GAP FIGURES

1. What do you enjoy the most about being an estate agent?

I have been an estate agent for over 13 years and I still have the same enthusiasm as I did when I first started out. Firstly, being entrusted by someone to manage the biggest asset in their lives is a huge honour and something I take extremely serious, and when we eventually sell the property I get a huge sense of achievement and satisfaction in seeing both buyers and sellers moving in to their new homes.

2. Do you employ any marketing techniques?

At Knights we are always trying to diversify how we approach marketing, the days of just advertising properties in the local newspapers has certainly changed and at Knights we have taken steps to start focusing much more on internet advertising and social media, such as Facebook and Instagram.

Some of the UK’s largest property companies have revealed the pay disparity between men and women within their organisations, as the deadline for complying with new government regulations draws near. Of the major property firms that have published their figures so far, housebuilder Barratt Developments had the largest mean gender pay gap at 51.5%, and British Land the highest median at 42.2%.

INLAND REVEALS PLANS FOR ITS BIGGEST SCHEME YET AT FORMER TESCO HQ

3. Are you worried about the rise of online agents?

They have most definitely thrown their hat into the estate agency ring, but whilst I fully understand that they offer a very competitive price when it comes to selling your home, my experience suggests that they aren’t equipped to deal with “real life” situations throughout the duration of a transaction. I’m an extremely proud estate agent and I go above and beyond to try and get our sales through, and once we do get them through we then get paid our commission. With online agents the best deal a vendor will get is if they opt to pay before their property is sold, ask yourself this, how motivated will someone be to not only sell your home but actually progress it through to completion if you have paid them all the money upfront? And if they don’t sell your home you have now lost that money, whereas with estate agents we only get paid once we have sold it. I’m certainly aware of online agents but I’m not worried as I know what we offer overall will always outweigh what an online estate agent offers.

WHY I LOVE SUBURBAN LIVING I grew up in north London, Islington N1 to be precise, before leaving the bustling streets of Upper Street for the leafy suburb of Woodford, Essex.

Why you may ask? What does Woodford offer that Islington doesn’t? Well to put it simply, it offers peace and tranquility. They are both accessible to the city and west end, although being 10 minutes by tube to Stratford Westfield and having easy access to the A12, A406, M11, M25 and A13 by car, I’m in an ideal position in my new location.

Inland Homes has submitted a planning application at Cheshunt Lakeside in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, for up to 1,853 homes and around 190,000 sq ft of commercial, retail, community, leisure and education space.

As majority landowner of the 30-acre site, which has a gross development value of £650m, the scheme is Inland’s largest to date.

The plans include a primary school, community space and a number of infrastructure improvements, including a bus connection to Cheshunt Rail Station and new pedestrian, cycle, public transport and vehicular routes. The scheme is expected to provide up to 1,000 jobs on the completed site and a further 250 construction jobs.

Far more greenery and open space, far less traffic and air pollution, great schools both public and private and of course the gated community of Repton Park where I proudly run my business and reside.

Don’t get me wrong, I love to visit my north London roots, but I love returning to Woodford and the fresh air and low traffic roads. The bustle and bright lights of N1 attract me like a moth to a flame, but my head and heart rests on a pillow in IG8.

The perfect balance of bushes and bustle means IG8 tops N1, but you should visit for yourself and see.

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1 Keats Parade, Church Street, Edmonton, N9 9DP

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L A S T C H A N C E T O B U Y AT G R A N G E B R O O K !

Crest Nicholson welcomes you to step inside our newly available 5 bedroom Show Home to discover all this luxurious, bespoke family home has to offer.

Featuring elegant interiors created by a boutique award-winning designer, complete with quality fixtures and fittings throughout and a beautifully landscaped rear garden.

What’s more, if you move into your new home before the end of April we’ll also pay your Stamp Duty, meaning you could save up to £68,750*!

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to make your dream move a reality.

Priced from £1,250,000 Ready to move into now

R AG S L A N E | C H E S H U N T H E RT FOR D S H I R E | E N 7 6T D

BY TR AIN London Liverpool Street 20 mins

Stratford 26 mins

www.crestnicholson.com/grangebrook

Moorgate 28 mins

London St Pancras International 32 mins

London Bridge 42 mins

London Waterloo 43 mins

01992 286000

Terms and conditions apply. Stamp Duty paid does not include the 3% SDLT surcharge payable for additional homes from 1st April 2016 and is not available in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

Stamp Duty saving example based on Plot 14, Tyne House. For reservations made which lead to a legal completion before 30th April 2018. For further details, please speak to a Sales Advisor. Train times taken from National Rail. Street scene photography. Pricing correct on 27.03.18.

*

EDITORIAL

“Honesty, Integrity & Trust” Voted Most Trusted Estate Agent – UK & Best Independent Estate Agency – London

M

ichael Wright Estate Agents, a Cockfosters based company that covers North London and South Hertfordshire, deals with all ranges of property. Founder, Christine Michael, talks us through her company and how it works to ensure that clients receive the very highest standards of service.

Drawing on the vast industry experience of Christine and her team, Michael Wright deals with clients ranging from first time buyers homes through to vendors selling mansions with acres of land, as well as handling rentals, management, Freehold Commercial Buildings & Shops, and potential development sites.

It is the firm’s dedication to excellence and providing an honest, supportive service to its clients which marks it out as the ideal option, as Christine is eager to highlight.

“When I set up Michael Wright over 40 years ago, estate agents did not have a good reputation, and despite the growth in regulations there is still often unease among clients today. Integrity is a key aspect within our company work ethic as an estate agent, and therefore I wanted to steer my firm to success by supporting clients and providing the very highest standards of service. I have proved that someone can be just as successful, if not even more so, by building on very strong and solid foundations. Giving a good and honest service has secured our untarnished reputation and given us repeat business and recommendations time and time again. Honesty does pay off.

“As such, at Michael Wright, we always offer an honest, efficient, friendly, welcoming approach and make people feel very comfortable in dealing with us. They are treated with professionalism and respect but also with enthusiasm. It could take anything up to six months or even longer to deal with a client, and therefore it is important that there is a good rapport throughout this whole period.”

Agent, which means that we belong to a Professional Body that expects and maintains the highest standards of service, even beyond the legal requirements.

“To be a good Estate Agent, and especially in running your own business, you need to have many skills and attributes in order to be successful; from accurate valuations, a good knowledge of the market, the sales process, good sales and negotiation skills, people skills, empathy, loyalty, honesty, integrity, enthusiasm, common sense, logic, intuition, good communication skills, patience and stamina, to name but a few.

“As far as I can see women have as much opportunity as men to recognise potential sites for development. I am very proud of how far I personally have come, and believe that many others can emulate my success in the future. There is no doubt that it is tougher for women to succeed in what is, still predominantly stereotyped as a man’s world of business. At the end of the day most people do prefer to deal with an estate agent that they can trust. However, as a businesswoman, one would need a very strong team that can be relied on, be able to prioritise and time-manage, as well as to delegate.

From a personal point of view, having help where needed at home for children, family and domestic needs is more than justified.

Having some breaks and holidays is also essential in order to change environment and to re-charge one’s batteries.”

Thanks to Christine’s forthright approach to client service, many customers of Michael Wright are profuse in their thanks and always happy to work with the company again. Christine discusses her approach to client service and how she personally works to provide the very best possible service to every client.

“With regards to my own personal approach to client service I am very strong on negotiating, valuing and sales progression skills. It is also very important to communicate with all other agents within a chain, as well as the client, so that everyone is in the loop and involved in order to achieve a good end result.”

Operating in the competitive estate agency market, Christine has achieved phenomenal success over the years, and believes that, now more than ever, women in this market have the chance to achieve great things.

Following on from the company’s incredible success over the past 40 years, Christine is eager to grow the company even further, and she is excited to showcase her plans for even greater future achievements in her concluding comments.

“Through my position as Senior Partner, I single-handedly started Michael Wright Estate Agents just over 40 years ago and it has since gone from strength to strength. Being in my nature, my genes and my upbringing, I knew of only one route and that was to follow a straight and honest road, building good relationships and solid foundations along the way. Joining the NAEA was an obvious choice and I am proud to be a Fellow Member of the National Association of Estate

“With our latest achievements and awards to be proud of, my vision is to look at franchising the Michael Wright name and brand. It has an untarnished reputation spanning more than 40 years, and depicts the way a true Estate Agency should be portrayed. I would like to see the Michael Wright name go national, working with an even wider range of clients, and this ambition will ensure great opportunities for myself and my team over the months and years ahead.”

1

With over 40 years experience we have a reputation for personal service, local expertise, innovative marketing and excellent results. When it comes to Selling or Letting your property make MICHAEL WRIGHT your first point of call.

COCKFOSTERS/HADLEY PARK – £1,350,000

COCKFOSTERS – £865,000

Fully detached double fronted 5 bedroom, 5 reception room and 3 bedroom Charles Church property. Also fitted kitchen/morning room, utility and guest cloakroom. Double garage-semi integral with own drive.

Wide plot with off street parking for several cars. Situated on the Hadley Park Estate in a private cul de sac. Tremendous extension potential to add further bedrooms and a self-contained Annexe/Flat.

Convenient for Cockfosters Tube Station and local amenities.

Well-presented and considerably extended 5 bedroom and 2 Bathroom double glazed semi-detached house with Detached Outbuilding.

3 Inter-Connecting Reception Rooms, Luxury Fitted Kitchen/Diner, Guest Cloakroom, Garage with Own Drive and Paved Off Street Parking for Several Cars. Conveniently located for Oakwood Tube Station, Buses, Shops, Schools and Trent Park Golf Club.

Offered chain free.

COCKFOSTERS – £800,000 OIEO

COCKFOSTERS – £835,000

A professionally extended and extremely spacious 4 bedroom, 2 reception, 2 bathroom semi detached character property.

Attached garage with own drive (could be converted for annexe) 130 ft. rear garden. Luxury fitted kitchen, d/s cloakroom, separate utility room. On ground floor there is guest bedroom suite comprising double bedroom, lounge area and en suite shower room. Off street parking for several cars. Extension scope over garage and into the loft (spp).

A bright, airy, spacious and professionally extended and well presented 4 bedroom property with attached garage own drive. 2 inter-connecting reception rooms, extended and well fitted kitchen/diner, d/s cloakroom.

Off street parking. Further extension scope to the side of the kitchen/ diner making the rear reception room larger and also connecting, as well as further bedrooms – SPP. Well established rear garden with a beautiful circular pergola with decking.

125 Cockfosters Road, Cockfosters, Barnet, Herts EN4 0DA Tel: 020 8449 2255 Email: sales@michaelwright.co.uk www.michaelwright.co.uk

PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

“Honesty, Integrity & Trust”

STA MP DUT Y PA ID*

LAST REMAINING 3 BED HOMES Don’t miss out on this luxury Anderson development From

£580,000

Contact our sales team to view the show home on 0845 430 0304 or visit www.chigwellgrove.co.uk for more information.

Chigwell Grove Sales and Marketing Suite, Luxborough Lane, Chigwell IG7 5AB

01992 676 500

HOMES

www.davis-homes.co.uk

E S TAT E A G E N T S

PROFESSIONAL I RELIABLE I SUCCESSFUL

CHINGFORD CHINGFORD

email: sales@davis-homes.co.uk

NORTHWEALD WEALD NORTH

OIRO OIRO£339,999 £339,999

OIRO OIRO£475,000 £475,000

REDUCED REDUCED Bedroom Floor ¡ Stunning Stunning 22Bedroom TopTop Floor Apartment ¡ Apartment Kitchen & Bathroom finished to a very high ■ Kitchen standard& Bathroom Finished to a Very ¡ High Two Double Bedrooms Standard ■ Two Double Bedrooms ■

NORTHWEALD WEALD NORTH

Walkingdistance Distance of Highams ¡ Within Within walking of Highams ParkPark and Chingford StationStation and Chingford ■ Allocated ¡ Allocated Parking Parking ¡ Communal Garden ■ Communal Garden ■

£365,000 £375,000

NEWINSTRUCTION INSTRUCTION NEW Bedroom Semi-Detached ¡ Stunning Stunning 33Bedroom Semi-Detached House ¡ House Brand New Modern Fitted Kitchen ■ Brand ¡ Downstairs NewCloakroom Modern Fitted Kitchen ¡ New Combi Boiler ■ Downstairs Cloakroom ■ New Combi Boiler ■

NORTHWEALD WEALD NORTH

REDUCED NEW INSTRUCTION ■ 3 Bedroom Endofof Terrace House ¡ Bedroom End Terrace House ■ Potential ¡ Potential totoExtend subject to Planning Extend Subject to Planning Permission Permission ¡ Open Plan Kitchen/Diner ■ Open Plan Kitchen / Diner ¡ Lounge ■ Lounge

THEYDON BOIS ILFORD

■ Conservatory ¡ Conservatory ■ 3 Bedrooms ¡ Bedrooms with Wardrobes withFitted Fitted Wardrobes ■ Ideal ¡ Ideal Family FamilyHome Home ¡ Quiet Cul-de-Sac Location ■ Quiet Cul-De-Sac Location

OIEO£750,000 £750,000 OIEO

NORTH WEALD WEALD

¡ Patio LuxuryDoors Fitted to Family Bathroom Garden ■ Underfloor ¡ Driveway with Parkingto forKitchen Numerous Heating & Vehicles ¡ Reception Detached Outbuilding with Potential to Convert 2 to Annexeto (subject to (Subject relevant planning ■ Potential Extend to Planning permission) Permission)

£349,995 £375,000

NORTH WEALD EPPING

■ Master ¡ AllocatedBedroom Parking Spaces with Fitted Wardrobes ■ Landscaped ¡ Rear Garden with Gated Rear AccessRear Garden with Gated ¡ Access Ideal First Time Purchase or Buy to Let InvestmentParking ■ Allocated ¡ Quiet Cul-De-Sac Location ■ Virgin Fibre Broadband

■ Paved Drivewaytoto Integral Garage ¡ Paved Driveway Integral Garage ■ Beautiful ¡ Beautiful Family FamilyHome Home ■ Double ¡ Double Glazed Glazed ¡ Gas Central ■ Gas CentralHeating Heating ¡ Central North Weald Location ■ Central North Weald Location

£539,999 £320,000

NEW NEWINSTRUCTION INSTRUCTION ■ 2 Bedroom ¡ Bedroom Ground FloorBungalow Apartment Detached ■ Lounge/Dining ¡ Lounge/Diner Room with Patio doors to ¡ Garden Stunning Luxury Fitted Bathroom ■ Brand New Luxury Bathroom ■ Driveway and Front Garden

NORTH WEALD WEALD

NEW INSTRUCTION ■ 3 ¡ 2 Bedroom Bedroom Terraced House Terraced House ■ Lounge ¡ Kitchen/Breakfast Room ■ Conservatory ¡ Lounge ¡ Conservatory ■ Modern Fitted Kitchen ¡ Master Bedroom Wardrobes ■ Stunning Brand with NewFitted Family Bathroom

OIRO OIRO£495,000 £495,000

NEWINSTRUCTION INSTRUCTION NEW ■ 4 Bedroom Semi-Detached House ¡ Bedroom Semi-Detached House ■ Modern ¡ Modern Kitchen Kitchen ■ Downstairs ¡ Downstairs WC WC ¡ Landscaped Mature Garden in excess of 100ft ■ Landscaped Mature Garden In Excess of 100ft

REDUCED NEW INSTRUCTION ■ 3 ¡ 5 Bedroom Bedroom Semi-Detached House Semi-Detached House ■ Modern ¡ Modern Fitted FittedKitchen High Gloss Kitchen ¡ Through Lounge/Dining Room ■ Lounge with Solid Wood Flooring & Bay ¡ Window Receptionto2/Snug Front Aspect ¡ DownstairsDining ShowerRoom Room/ Reception 2 with ■ Separate

50ftRear RearGarden Garden ¡ Approx.

Approx. 50ft ■ Single ¡ Single Garage Garage ■ Driveway ¡ Driveway ¡ Potential totoExtend subject to Planning ■ Potential Extend Subject to Planning Permission Permission ■

■ Integral ¡ High Gloss Modern Fitted Kitchen with Garage ■ Within Integrated Appliances Walking Distance of Local Shops ¡ and ShareAmenities of Freehold ¡ Garage ■ Landscaped Rear Garden

OIEO £425,000 £450,000

REDUCED ■ 4 Bedroom ¡ Bedroom Semi-Detached House Semi-Detached House ■ Lounge ¡ Lounge ■ Modern ¡ Modern Fitted FittedKitchen Kitchen ¡ Conservatory ■ Conservatory ¡ Family Bathroom ■ Family Bathroom

■ Approximately ¡ Approximately 120ft Rear Garden 120ft Rear Garden ■ Driveway ¡ Driveway &&Detached Garage Detached Garage ■ Sought ¡ Sought After AfterLocation Location

PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

Davis

EDITORIAL

Our business is to help your business Our Commercial Department deals with companies of all shapes and sizes. With several experienced solicitors in the department we are able to advise on a large number of matters from setting up a company to tax advice.

Established companies can benefit from ongoing advice on Employment Law, Restructuring, Mergers and Acquisitions and the many day to day matters that contribute to the running of a company.

Just being a solicitor is not enough; clients want a firm which understands their business their business and personal objectives. At Vanderpump & Sykes, reliability, a practical approach and competitive costs enable us to assist clients to achieve their goals.

We offer a full range of commercial property, company commercial, commercial litigation and employment legal services to start-ups, SMEs, large corporations and local authorities. We compete effectively with the best City and West End firms while remaining accessible and affordable.

We also serve individual needs through a wide range of traditional legal services as listed below.

For advice on commercial matters contact James Porter on 020 8370 2865 or by email: jamesporter@vanderpumps.co.uk

Employment Law Employment law can be a minefield, particularly to SMEs. English and European legislation and endless Regulations can take their toll on any business.

Richard Stephens, an Employment Law specialist, says: “We recommend that all companies have policies and procedures in place to cover every aspect of employment law which could have an impact on their business. A good employment policy will pay for itself over and over again�

For advice on Employment law contact Richard on 020 8370 2875 or by email: richardstephens@vanderpumps.co.uk

020 8367 3999 www.vanderpumpandsykes.co.uk

Lough Point, 2 Gladbeck Way, Enfield, Middlesex EN2 7JA

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