Close Up November 2018

CLOSE UP WINTER

AN

Interview WITH

STYLE HOW TO ACE THE

EDDIE REDMAYNE

Ice Queen Look

THE

FESTIVE

WRAPPED UP CHRISTMAS Home Trends

DIARIES

Health ALTERNATIVES TO KEEP YOU Active

HUNGRY

THE BEAUTY

FOR MORE? THE

SAVIOUR Gifts

Food ISSUE

12 SHE’S HOPING TO FIND HIDING IN THE STOCKING…

Jodie Comer On style, stunts and serial killing

NOVEMBER 2018 closeupuk.com

Archway Sheet Metal Work Ltd 13 Brunswick Industrial Park Brunswick Way, New Southgate London N11 1JL

tradecounter@archwaysm.com www.archwaysm.com Tel: 020 8365 0760 Fax: 020 8365 9670

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the ULTIMATE Wishlist With Christmas right around the corner, there’s not much time left for present hunting. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or curating your own festive wish list, take gifting inspiration from the Close Up team, who share what they hope to find stuffed in their stockings on Christmas morning.

Cocoa Brown by Marissa Carter Christmas Cracker £9.95

Lumene Nordic C [Valo] Natural Glow Christmas Gift Set £36.90

White Stuff Cable Boot Sock £12

Not on the High Street Chunky Knit Scarf £85

Jo Malone London Pomegranate Noir Collection £83

M&S Espresso Martini Sparkling Cocktail Gift Set £30

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Dorothy Perkins Blush Faux Fur Trim Gloves £18

HA Designs Initial Card Holder £30

Skin Republic Detox Dream Set £16.99

Oliver Bonas 2019 Diary A5 £23.50

Chanel Exclusive Creation La Palette Caracrere Lipstick Collection £55

Clinique Pop Treats Ornament £15

Eau Thermale Avene Hydrance Kit POA

Paperchase Cactus iPhone X Case £12.50

New Look Red Mug with Polar Bear Detail £5.99

EOS Organic Limited Edition Chai Lip Balm £6.50

Home Sense Pink Pillow £12.99

Doll Beauty Belle £10

Accessorize Bonnie Bunny Mule Slipper £19

The White Company Orange Rind Signature Candle £20

Lulu Guinness Glitter Lip Grace Clutch Bag - Light Pink Purple £95

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.

Publisher & Editor Andrea Georgiou andrea@closeupuk.com

Accounts Director accounts@closeupuk.com What’s Hot Editorial Lauren Lunn Farrow

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

Dental Column Dr Richard Marques

Field Sales Advisor Kat Stylianou kat@closeupuk.com

Hair Column Jason Collier

Film Editor James Luxford

Photographer Debbi Clark Photography

Editorial Leah Shakallis

Images BBC Pictures

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

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Beauty

Food

4

36

Wish List

Living

6

32 24 Fashion

Eddie Redmayne

LIVE WHAT YOU Love W

hen I originally moved into my first office, I taped a picture to the side of my computer that read: “Your Chance to Live What You Love”. Every morning and every evening that inspirational motto is present at the edge of my vision and in my heart’s sub consciousness.

Now, as I sit writing my next editor’s letter for Close Up, I smile and remember that message as it has become my reality. Close Up was born as a magazine with an inspiration to help you make the most of life. So, there were two goals for this magazine. One: to present a snapshot to our areas of how far we have come since 2007, when “local magazines” was a relatively new concept. Two: our second aim was to highlight the fashion, beauty and celebrity mandate and bring this straight to your doorstep. For the latter, and in our quest to give you a creative mix of content we have for this issue dreamed up the ultimate cover star – Jodie Comer. The internet goes without saying has changed the way we live, and I have effortlessly grown to realise that my i-phone remains my loyal ‘friend’. I carry it from room to room. It’s the last thing I check at night and the first thing I grab in the morning. Always actively seeking out brand new content through social media and realistically more likely to crowd source information from our social networks than to ask an expert. It is this way forward and it is these things I’ll keep in mind as we expand more and more. One of the many pleasures of editing this magazine is that this is a magazine that has always been able to encompass literature and living as well as interpreting style and trends. This month – as always – we remain true to that legacy.

Enjoy this issue, enjoy the month and enjoy finding a message that will make you smile and become your reality. Hopefully it is within the pages of Close Up and when you do, let me know! I would love to hear from you.

x a e r d n A

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.

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COVER INTERVIEW

Meet your new favourite TV villain, Killing Eve’s

Jodie Comer Words by Andrea Georgiou

Jodie Comer continues her rise as one of the most exciting actresses in Britain. Yet the 23-year-old Liverpool native has managed to stay grounded. She even still lives at home, in Liverpool, with her parents. “I don’t know if it’s the way I’ve been brought up or if it’s because I spend so much time away that I appreciate being at home so much,” Comer says. “You get on the bus and people are like, ‘Hi, love.’ It’s those things I would miss. Or it’s me not wanting to admit that I have to move away from Mum and Dad.” Acting wasn’t so much in the blood as ingrained in her personality from as far back as she can remember. “I was a natural drama queen when I was younger,” she says. “I was always doing impersonations and showing off. I just love making people laugh.”

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COVER INTERVIEW

We catch up with Jodie and talk Killing Eve...

What sort of world will the audience be entering with Killing Eve? The series follows Villanelle’s assignments, with Eve becoming aware of a possible link between these kills. Eve and Villanelle’s lives are very, very different. I feel like when you’re with Eve, it feels like a totally different world to the one that Villanelle is in. Villanelle is very high-paced, and energetic, and she’s always in some extravagant place, wearing ridiculously fancy, eccentric clothes. And she’s pretty much always on her own, she’s a bit of a lone wolf.

What drives Villanelle to do what she does?

I think what drives Villanelle is her freedom. I feel like she’s had very little freedom in her life before now. She lives in Paris in this amazing apartment and she gets a kick from doing these kills it excites her and gives her purpose. She’s got control.

She does her kills, she gets her money, she spends it on what she likes, and she has no one around her to take that from her, or tell her what to do - she has total freedom.

She has very little remorse, and she’s cool with that.

closeness and warmth, and we’ve definitely found that. And there’s a real depth. Even though this is a work relationship, you can tell that there’s something more underneath all of that. He cares a lot about her, and she cares a lot about him.

I think people will enjoy them together on screen.

How has the Costume Department been helping create the look of Villanelle?

The costumes are absolutely incredible; every time you see her she could be a different person. Costume Designer, Phoebe De Gaye’s been amazing - she’s the brains and the vision behind it all. To be honest, I didn’t really know what I thought Villanelle would wear, and then Phoebe brought all this remarkable stuff in, and I was like, ‘yup, perfect’. I don’t think she has a particular style, it’s just anything goes, depending on the mood.

Big, bright and bold, I don’t think she cares as long as it’s expensive.

Can you tell us anything about the mysterious ‘12’?

Villanelle doesn’t really know an awful lot. She knows that Konstantin is the guy who’s in charge of her, and she knows there is something bigger above him that’s telling him what needs to happen.

She becomes more aware of this ‘12’ entity halfway through the series, and asks Konstantin. He tells her she shouldn’t ask anymore, and she should stop there, which she doesn’t because she doesn’t cope very well with being told what to do.

This really begins to test their relationship. If we are fortunate enough to be recommissioned, then I think that series would definitely explore who or what the ‘12’ is, which would be nice to know.

I think what drives Villanelle is her freedom.

She’s got control. She does her kills, she gets her money, she spends her it on what she likes, and she has no one to tell her what to do. She has very little remorse, and she’s cool with that”

Do you have anything in common with your character?

I’m scared to say yes because she’s so crazy! She likes to spend her money on clothes, and she always seems to be eating, I’m guilty on both counts. I see her as an actress in many ways because she has so many different personas, so my way into her was to think of it as an act. She thrives off being an actress. She speaks so many languages, and often has a set costume or hair depending on her mission, just a totally different life that she morphs into.

How important was it to you to have a strong key team of women behind and in front of the camera?

It’s always important. What’s so amazing with both the lead characters is that they can be weak and they are vulnerable, and I guess in turn that’s what makes them strong. We have the preconception about assassins on screen, they’re always immaculate, and they do everything with such ease and precision. And what really attracted me to Villanelle was she was a bit messy, a bit slutty, and she had humour.

How has it been working with Kim? What does he bring to the role of Konstantin?

Kim is amazing, he’s got such energy and charm. It was so important for Villanelle and Konstantin’s relationship to have

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What makes Killing Eve unique for you?

What I love is the balance of humour and darkness within the series; there is so much humour, but then there are so many moments which are quite shocking and brutal. That balance is so hard to get right. And I just think there’s something so relatable about Villanelle, something very curious about her, and likeable, which I don’t think I’ve seen before.

What has been your favourite scene to shoot?

There’s a great scene when Villanelle and Eve meet for the first time. Villanelle lets herself into Eve’s house, and they have a big confrontation. That scene was brilliant to film - our characters know so much about each other, and the characters are always talking about each other - so for them to finally meet for the first time was a big, big moment.

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FASHION

River Island £85

Dorothy Perkins £55

Simply Be £70

George at Asda £35

Miss Selfridge £65

H&M £79.99

Zara £69.99

New Look £39.99 ASOS £70

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FASHION Dorothy Perkins

BEAR’

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BEAUTY NOTES

JASON COLLIER: Your Hair Hero

Stylist to the stars Jason Collier shares his expert advice with Close Up readers HAIRCARE TIP OF THE MONTH Last month, we were all lusting over the Duchess of Sussex’s hair during her tour of Australia. But the thing I admired most? Her dedication to making the most of her hair every day, at every opportunity, without appearing to overwash it. I don’t believe that any of us should be washing our hair daily, as it strips the hair of its natural oils. Meghan (or her hairdresser) was very clever with her locks, making the most of every day without the hair ever looking greasy, flat or lank.

Hello everyone! I can’t believe as I write this that’s November already – hasn’t 2018 gone by in the blink of an eye? It barely seems a moment ago that we were prepping for summer and here we are already, hunkering down for the winter.

Not that I am getting a chance of hibernating this season, oh no. A packed schedule of international obligations means I’ll be spending much of November on the road and in the air, working in locations from Florence to Russia on some incredible jobs.

But when I am at home, I’m planning on making the most of London in the lead-up to Christmas. November is like the calm before the storm – everything starts to get beautifully festive but the crowds haven’t quite descended yet, so it’s a perfect time to enjoy the beginning of the festive season. I’m looking forward to strolls along the South Bank and visiting the Christmas market there, ice skating at the rink in Canary Wharf and, of course, seeing all of the festive window displays lining Regent Street! @jasoncollierjc

So, this month, think like Meghan and use product and styling wisely to reduce your washing regime.

Day one, fresh and bouncy blow dry. Day two, add some waves into the existing texture. Day three, dry shampoo and a loose blow-out. Day four, a sleek pony or a messy bun. Perfect hair that keeps its condition, and saves you time too – a win win!

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH I’ve spoken before about how the elements and the changing temperatures in winter can affect the condition and quality of our hair, especially when you think about how tangled it can get wrapped up in scarves and coat collars, whipped by the winds and battered by the elements.

I always advocate setting aside time for a deepconditioning treatment at least once a week, and I’ve really been impressed with a new hair mask from L’Oreal; their Dream Lengths Heat Mask is self-heating, which helps to lock the nutrients into the hair and penetrate the hair shaft more effectively.

It’s a two-step mask but it’s very simple to use; you just apply the vitamin-enriched conditioning balm onto to freshly washed, combed and towel-dried hair, and then pop on the tissue cap, which is infused with a self-heating lotion. Then you leave it for 10 minutes before rinsing out. The effect? Long, strong and shiny hair that’s more resilient to the harshness of winter.

LOOK OF THE MONTH As it gets chillier, it might be time to think about donning a hat, and there’s nothing I love more than a retro beret for a cute, kitsch look. If you’re worried that you won’t suit a hat, I’m here to tell you – a beret suits everybody.

Tilt it to the side like Faye Dunaway in ‘Bonnie & Clyde’, pull it back off your face for a relaxed style, or for a modern take on the look, swap the wool for a leather beret like Rihanna – it adds instant edge. Pick a pop of colour to brighten up your winter look, or choose a tonal hue to match your coat for a beautifully coordinated style.

Wearing a hat just elevates your look and adds that little touch of je ne sais quoi.

Wear your hair down with loose, relaxed waves for that quintessential Parisian vibe, shield your hair from the elements on particularly windy or rainy days, and you can use it to cover up greasy or grown-in roots too.

Just remember – if you’re wearing a beret, you need to commit to it and keep it on for the full day, as hat hair will never be a good look!

BEAUTY NOTES

bareMinerals Supernova Space Glossary Makeup Set £70

The White Company Advent Calendar £150

Kneipp Herbal Bath Collection £9.95 at Holland & Barrett

Jo Malone Advent Calendar £300

W7 Cosmetics London Eyes £9.95

Schwarzkopf Professionals The Colour Freeze Gift Set £26.20

Close Up has brought together a collection of our favourite Christmas beauty gift sets. Utterly indulge yourself with these decadent treats this party season and make sure you’re the belle of the ball!

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Eyeko Festive Flutter Christmas Cracker £15

Clinique Festive Favourites Set £95

Elizabeth Arden Red Door Gift Set £40

Illamasqua Elemental Palette £38

Isle of Paradise Glow Ho-Ho Christmas Gift Box £52

Birchbox Christmas Cracker £15

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EDITORIAL

TOP THINGS TO ASK YOUR COSMETIC SURGEON BEFORE GOING UNDER THE KNIFE With cosmetic surgery and cosmetic tourism on the increase, Mr Nigel Carver, FRCS(Plast) Consultant Cosmetic Surgeon at The Holly Private Hospital reveals the top things you need to ask your cosmetic surgeon before going under the knife.

Appearance and beauty now seem to be paramount to making our way in the world. While beauty is no real measure of a person’s worth or capabilities, there’s a confidence that comes with facing the world without a worry about how you look. Undergoing plastic surgery is just one way of trying to achieve this but there are a few things you need to know. Be sure to ask your Cosmetic Surgeon these important questions before going under the knife to stay safe and get the best results.

What kind of results should I expect?

Make sure you express what you are looking for in detail but don’t have unrealistic expectations. It’s the surgeon’s job to align your expectations with what is realistic. Surgeons work hard to get the best results possible, but there are certain things that can’t be controlled such as skin elasticity, asymmetry and gravity. Working on people is different from working with wood or steel and undergoing cosmetic surgery isn’t like buying a pair of shoes.

What does the process entail?

Most surgery happens under general anaesthetic with a hospital stay.

Different operations require different recovery periods when you must rest and avoid exercise. Maximize your chances for success by following your surgeon’s instructions closely. Make the time to both prepare and recover. If you’re in a rush you are almost certain to have problems and then be unhappy.

What are the potential risks and complications?

It’s a huge red flag if your surgeon promises a risk-free procedure— there’s no such thing. There are particular complications, especially bleeding after surgery, which require complete rest for a period after you return home. If you don’t comply with these instructions you could put your safety and the result in jeopardy.

How often have you done this procedure?

Ideally your surgeon has done the same procedure hundreds of times over many years. Also ask what training the doctor has—you don’t want someone who only went on a weekend course. Ask to see before and after pictures from previous patients. Surgeons can talk about how great your results will be until they are blue in the face but a picture is worth 1000 words.

What are your qualifications?

Your plastic surgeon should have the qualification FRCS(Plast) from the Royal College of Surgeons, be on the GMC specialist register and be a member of two professional organisations called BAPRAS and BAAPS. These are easy to look up.

Where will the surgery take place?

You should be operated on in an accredited hospital checked and scored by the CQC (Care Quality Commission). Look it up on the Private Healthcare information Network (www.phin.org.uk).

How much does it cost?

It’s true that plastic surgery is expensive but the frugal route is not always the safest route. If the price of your operation is 75% cheaper than everyone else’s then there is usually a good reason—and it’s probably not a good one. Low cost often means that quality or corners are being cut somewhere. You only have one body, so treat it well and look for safety and quality with your surgery.

What support is in place if I have a problem and the surgeon is not available? Also ask about the reoperation or revision policy.

A revision without charge should be available if necessary up to 1 year post-operatively. Ideally this should be free, but you may still have to pay for anaesthesia and hospital fees.

Use the internet as a research tool. Plastic surgeons have websites and “third party” websites exist where you can find reviews of surgeons made by previous patients. Internet or magazine advertisements on the contrary are not a good guide. Are you in charge of selecting the surgeon? Or are you being recruited by a cosmetic surgery company which assigns patients to surgeons who might not be the best? The safest recommendation is word of mouth from someone you know who has undergone surgery and is happy with the outcome.

Find someone in your area—do not travel for Plastic Surgery. All procedures require follow up, complications are possible and these are best managed by the original surgeon. If you travel to another country you will have no idea whether it’s safe and reliable. Having complications managed by another surgeon when you get home will cost you additional money.

Shop around and don’t get caught up in the “latest and greatest” technique or product that you recently read in a magazine. If you find someone that is well qualified and experienced, has explained the pros and cons of the procedure, and perhaps most importantly, who you like—then you have found your surgeon. You should feel confident that he or she will employ the safest technique because you’ve done your homework. Good luck!

Nigel Carver FRCS(Plast), Consultant Plastic Surgeon has clinics at The Holly Private Hospital on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Why wait?

Private healthcare appointments available now Whether you have an ongoing health concern, you’re waiting for NHS treatment, or simply want a second opinion, you can access specialist care at a time that suits you.

Book to see a specialist consultant for a

ÂŁ200

*

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Call: 020 8936 1201 Visit: theholly.com *Terms and conditions apply. Offer valid until end 2018 with participating consultants only. Further tests or treatment charged separately.

Please ask for more details at time of booking.

The Holly Private Hospital, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, IG9 5HX WINNER

FASHION River Island

Queen This autumn, fashion has gone British.

With classic tweed and lambswool, velvet, silk and lace. Use them in contrasting combinations - it’s personal styling that adds the interest. This season’s fashion is as individual as it is versatile, created to inspire you to update your own personal style.

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FASHION

M&S £89

Miss Selfridge £69

Dorothy Perkins £26

Zara £69.99 Jimmy Choo £475

Kurt Geiger £180

ASOS £16

New Look £39.99 Dorothy Perkins £25

River Island £45

Next £49

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HEALTH

TOP 10

MY TIPS FOR KEEPING TEETH STRONG & HEALTHY THIS WINTER

1

Keep up a strong oral hygiene routine. Brush twice daily for two to three minutes in the morning and evening. Any more and you can wear the teeth away, any less the teeth and gums may suffer

2

Teeth often become more sensitive in very cold weather.

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

3

Your diet plays a big part in oral health, so eat lots of greens like spinach and kale that are high in anti-oxidants as well as Vitamin K, an important nutrient for a healthy mouth

4

Dry mouth can be common with certain medications including those designed to aid the common cold. This can lead to decline in saliva production so drink plenty of water and use alcohol-free mouthwash

5

Take Co Enzyme Q10, a vital molecule and dentist favourite for overall gum health. It’s difficult to get enough of this from diet alone, so I recommend taking supplements to boost intake

6

Hot drinks are a winter favourite, but be careful if you have sensitive teeth as extreme temperatures trigger sensitivity, so stick to room temperature drinks and use lukewarm water when brushing

7 8 9 10

Do not skip the dentist! Make sure you keep to your sixmonthly check-up and ensure they clean with protective fluoride to keep teeth tip-top for the chilly season Wearing a scarf will help to keep your lower jaw warm and can be used to cover your mouth if you’re experiencing teeth sensitivity in cold air Canker sores inside the mouth can flare up in winter due to the harsh elements. Swish a teaspoon of salt with warm water round your mouth a few times a day to help heal them Wear a mouth guard when outside for long periods of time to prevent your teeth from being forced together or chattering which puts extra pressure on them

Be proud of

YOUR SMILE Introducing

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

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

THIS MONTH’S

product recommendation Give your oral health the best defence this winter, with my Dr Richard London CoEnzyme Q10 supplements. It’s amazing for the strength and health of gums and can be used to improve periodontal health in combination with treatments from your dentist.

THE celebrity’s C

HOICE

The wonderful Jamie Redknapp was back this month for his check-up. He never misses his six-monthly appointments which is why his teeth stay in such excellent condition!

Dear Santa, Can I have normal vision without glasses this year?

Love, a glasses wearer.

MIRACLES DO HAPPEN! CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW TO LOSE YOUR GLASSES FOREVER T: +44 (0)208 445 8877 E: reception@my-iclinic.co.uk W: www.my-iclinic.co.uk A: 960 High Road, London, N12 9RY

EDITORIAL

#STOPHOLDINGBACK Close Up talks to Stop Holding Back charity founders Christopher Jackson and Ayo Adesanya about how their charity is here to change lives, and has changed their own.

S

tuttering is a communication and disfluency disorder where the flow of speech is interrupted. Though all speakers will experience a small amount of disfluency while speaking, a person who stutters experiences disfluency more noticeably, generally stuttering on at least 10% of their words.

There are approximately 70 million people who stutter worldwide, which is about 1% of the population. Stuttering usually begins in childhood between the ages of two and five, with about 5% of all children experiencing a period of stuttering that lasts six months or more. Three-quarters of children who stutter will recover by late childhood, but those who don’t may develop a lifelong condition. The male-to-female ratio of people who stutter is four to one, meaning there is a clear gender discrepancy that scientists are still attempting to understand.

There are no miracle cures for stuttering. Any person, programme, or product that claims a fool-proof cure is false. There are ways, however, to manage a stutter. Here, we speak to influencers Christopher and Ayo on how to manage and control your stutter.

How did stammering affect your everyday life?

Chris: Stammering affected almost every aspect of my everyday life.

From the moment I opened my eyes in the morning I would have chest pains from anxiety from the constant worry about which speaking situations would I find myself in today. My stutter made decisions for me and shaped my personality. At school I would avoid every speaking situation that I could and hid at the back of the classroom hoping to never be called upon to read aloud or picked on to answer a question. People thought I was shy or even rude as I would give oneword answers when spoken to as I didn’t want to encourage a long conversation where I could be exposed as stutterer.

The only time I could order food that I wanted would be if I was with someone who knew what I was going through and could order for me in a restaurant such as a friend, family member or my girlfriend.

Otherwise, I had to order what I knew I was going to be able to say, which was never what I really wanted. This would then play on my mind constantly and get me down. So, the next time I approached that situation, anxiety would be even worse.

I never spoke on the phone and was relieved when What’s app came out. The actual making and receiving calls function on my iPhone was only invented for me in February of this year.

“I now have the job I’ve always wanted”

Later in life my stutter would decide which jobs I would apply for or which path I would take in life.

You believe you are restricted to jobs that do not involve a lot of talking and client facing roles would be out of the question.

The main thing that affected me

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as stutterer was that I felt I could never grab hold of someone’s attention for long enough and that no one was interested in what you had to say the chances are you will take too long to say it. There were times I would be talking to someone and I can see in their face they aren’t listening to what I am saying.

“I have the confidence to apply for the jobs I want”

Ayo: For 27 years, I had done whatever it took to hide my stammer as best I could and I developed many tricks and avoidance tactics to facilitate this. I was certainly living in a false reality; a reality I had constructed in my mind where I lived in denial of my stammer, doing anything it took to appear to be fluent, trying to be someone I was not.

This resulted in a life full of lies, disappointment and embarrassment.

It not only affected me, it affected my friends, family and career choices in the most negative ways. Waking up every morning became challenging, the more I hid my stammer; the more my stammer hurt me.

These negative thoughts, feelings and experiences all came to ahead in my mind one night, when I decided enough was enough. No more did I want to go on with life doing jobs only where I could hide my stammer, suffering in silence without anyone having a clue, I decided, life wasn’t worth living anymore. I had graduated from Loughborough university with a BSC in banking, finance and management but found myself working security. I was miserable and one night in December 2016, near Christmas, I decided to kill myself. I was sitting in front of 16 paracetamol pills and contemplating taking them. I was going to take them for sure, luckily, I had only taken 4 before something hit me and I realised I did not really want to die. So, I did a google search for the term ‘stammer cure to 2018’, projecting a year into the future, as I had searched for previous years before and found nothing.

Can you tell us about the charity you have formed, Stop Holding Back?

Stop Holding Back’s mission is to empower young adults from 18-30 years of age who stutter, with the confidence and tools to exceed their potential in life, without being restricted and imprisoned by their stutter. Stop Holding Back was founded by stutterers for stutterers, to fill a vital gap for persons who stutter (PWS) starting out in working life.

In just two years, Stop Holding Back has developed a combination of coaching; techniques; support and monitoring tools to build on the therapies and support our PWS received through their infant and teen

“Stuttering is OK! #DONTHOLDBACK #BEYOURSELF”

“I’m now living my life to the full without my stammer holding me back”

EDITORIAL

years. Our primary motivation is to be able to give our PWS the self-coaching tools and knowledge to manage, maintain and speak in a more comfortable and controlled manner.

Stop Holding Back’s work is pioneering. The one to one coaching programme developed by our co-founder Ayo Adesanya, focusing on the physical and psychological aspects of stammering is already delivering powerful results. Our objective now is to encourage our mentee’s who have been through our Stop Holding Back One on One coaching programme, to become mentors and coaches themselves.

What do you think can lead others to also build the courage to join SHB? Chris: We just want to lead by example to show people who stutter that you do not have to settle for a life of limitations and avoidance no matter how sceptical you may be at this moment in time. Growing up I had tried everything there was to offer for stuttering and nothing worked. I accepted that stuttering would limit me. But I know now that there is a way of overcoming your stutter and reach a point where you are happy to be the person you know you can be. It is not straight forward, it is not easy, you will put in situations that will make you feel uncomfortable, but it is all part of the journey to freedom. Before working on any aspect of your life whether you stutter or not, whatever it may be, you must have the right mentality to see it through. You must be motivated.

Ayo: With the combination of proactively showing off our stammers deliberately with stuttering fluency tools with the ADVERTISE mentality, it has cultivated long-lasting confidence to not only accept our stammers but embrace it. In essence what we are essentially doing is stammering before we stammer so we don’t stammer, but what more this mentality has given is to not be afraid to stammer, and to stammer with pride and on purpose. None of us are cured and probably never will be, but what we don’t do is HOLD BACK. Stammering or not… we cultivate this no holding back mentality, this advertise mentality, which is to go into any speaking situation with the intention that we will advertise our stammer and not pretend to be fluent speakers, because we are not. If we go into the situation with the pure intention of advertising our stammers, from past experience we probably won’t stammer, you could call it reverse psychology almost. but nevertheless, if we find ourselves blocking when speaking, above all, the number one rule is to not hold back, it is to persevere and say what we want to say regardless of how long it takes.

Stop holding Back is for those who want an easier time speaking with a degree of consistent fluency, more powerfully we teach that it’s okay to stammer, as long as you are not holding back in life. You are not defined by your speech.

Which techniques work best for you on a day-to-day basis?

Chris: Working on my speech is a lifestyle so there are various physical and psychological techniques that I use and work on daily. I have a 15-minute warm up session in the morning that I run through.

Like anyone would warm up before playing sports, I warm up before speaking. But the main technique that helps me is being assertive.

The opposite to being assertive is holding back, which results in me stuttering. Assertiveness comes in various forms from the way you “I no longer speak to your posture and body need anyone language. All must be worked on and this helps with your belief to talk for me” system.

Ayo: I use our 5 primary physical techniques, which we teach and practise at stop holding back consisting of mainly stuttering modification tools but more importantly we have a very specific attitude and mentality we cultivate and practice than enables us to use the physical techniques successfully In the real world, without the correct proactive mindset, nothing works. The mentality is the foundation that needs to be laded for everything else to work on top of it. The physical techniques are only support structures that make the building a little stronger and a little more resilient to weather, but the foundation is the key. This is precisely what we do different to other speech therapy programs. We firmly believe stuttering can be overcome with the mind mostly and we have the results to show it.

What’s next to come for Stop Holding Back?

We are working on many things but one step at a time. Next for SHB is to get the charity off the ground and continue to work with people who wish to make improvements in their speech. We are working with a group of people of now who are making good progress and will continue to work with them where their progress is being monitored in their ‘real world’ environments. These results will be published for all to see. Look out for our documentary that will be showing how we work on our speech and how we help others to transform their lives.

info@stopholdingback.com www.stopholdingback.org 29

EDUCATION

LOCAL CHILD AND FAMILY PLATFORM,

SOPHIA’S DIARY PRESENT THEIR FIRST EVER AWARDS CEREMONY

By Andrea Krase Owner and Founder of Sophia’s Diary (www.sophias-diary.com) Over 11,000 people voted for their favourite local business, for the first ever Sophia’s Diary Awards Ceremony.

120 local business members, and community group leaders attended the ceremony that took place on Friday 5th October at The Venue, Chalk Lane.

Sophia’s Diary focuses on promoting child and family related news in the local community. A strong community has been built with parents, business members and other organisations since launching 3 years ago.Owner and founder, Andrea Krase, organised the event to celebrate the excellent work from members, and to showcase the wide range of activities, particularly for families, within the community.

Local Family Event Planner Ebru Misirli from JTT Events was delighted that their event, N21 Summer Fair, won Best Family Event. Ebru states “We work hard to ensure all our events are at a high standard and enjoyable by all.

To be acknowledged by our attendees and Sophia’s Diary members means the world to us, and shows the hard work we have put in has been recognised and appreciated”

The winners that were announced on the night are: Best Baby Class in Enfield (Under 12 months) Monkey Music

Best Indoor Place to Go for Children - Fun Junction

Best Toddler Group in Enfield (13 - 36 months) - Pro Elite Football Academy

Best Outdoor Venue - Forty Hall

Best Pre School Class in Enfield (2 – 5 years) Monkey Music Best Baby Class in Barnet (Under 12 months) Monkey Music Best Toddler Group in Barnet (13 months 36 months) - Monkey Music Best Pre School Class in Barnet (2 years – 5 years) - Monkey Music Best Language Class - Asterakia Best Singing Class - Young Notes Best Class for 5 - 10-year olds - Platinum Performing Arts Best Dance School - Platinum Performing Arts Best Performing Arts School - Platinum Performing Arts Best Sports Class - Pro Elite Football Academy Best School Holiday Camp - Fitness Vibe Best Children’s Party Planner - Jam Jam Parties Best Events Planner - Maria Elias PartyLite Best Event Supplier - Elianna Event Decor Best Family Event - N21 Summer Fair by JTT Events Best Family Show - Superheroes and The Lost Fairytale

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Best Family Friendly Venue to Eat Out - The Winchmore Pub Best Hair and Beauty Provider - Theoni’s Hair Best Wellness Practitioner - Train 2 First Aid Best Health Practitioner - Train 2 First Aid Best Fitness Provider - ((Bounce)) Best Education Provider - Train 2 First Aid Best Care Provider - Train 2 First Aid Best Pregnancy Support Provider - Jackie’s North London Yoga Best Shopping Provider for Children - Elianna Event Decor Best Shopping Provider for Adults - Maria Elias PartyLite Best Travel Provider - Marios Constantas Travel Expert Best Home Services Provider - Maria Elias PartyLite Best Repair Provider - Winchmore Hill Service Centre Best Business Services Provider - Maria Elias PartyLite Best Charity - In Sue’s Name Thank you to everyone that voted and supported our local business members.

FILM INTERVIEW

Cher

The show business legend talks about her love of movies, and her nerves at joining the cast of the Mamma Mia sequel!

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ith over half a century of success, Cher has earned the title ‘icon’. Making her name in both music and the film industry, until this year her last big screen performance was 2010’s Burlesque. However, when the sequel to 2008 hit Mamma Mia came along, she had to be a part of it.

It was hard to go on a set where you’re a stranger to everyone; I knew some of the people. I felt really kind of loved.”

Finally, her appearance in the film coincides with her own album of ABBA cover songs. It was something of a discovery for Cher, whose knowledge of the band wasn’t that deep. “In America, we knew the hit songs, the major hit songs” she explains. “Then when I heard Fernando, I heard a different thing, I knew the story but I heard the acting of it. I didn’t realise the songs were so complicated, how well orchestrated they were. Then when I thought of how to interoperate it, it seemed so perfect for Andy (Garcia) and I, the relationship we have (on screen) and seeing each other again.”

Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! Is out on DVD from 26th November

“I was terrified” the star admits in a press conference for the film, where she plays Meryl Streep’s estranged mother.

“Everyone had been together. Also, my character wasn’t very liked by anybody. I was really nervous but Ol (Parker, director) was great. Everybody was so nice to me, Meryl was behind a piece of scenery watching me do my scene that made me feel good. It was hard to go on a set where you’re a stranger to everyone; I knew some of the people. I felt really kind of loved.”

Family is a big theme in the film, and Cher has a very personal connection to the film industry through her mother. “I used to watch a lot of old movies, my mother was an old movie buff. So early on in my life, my mother started with me watching old black and white films” she recalls. “I remember seeing Mildred Pierce, that wasn’t a musical it was kind of a down movie but it was really good. I liked the fact that Joan Crawford was let go by the studio and the next movie she made got her an academy award. My mother and I watched all these old movies together and I appreciate that now, more than I can say.”

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FILM INTERVIEW

RECAPTURING

The Magic Eddie Redmayne talking about returning to wizardry in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

A

rguably the biggest film of the winter period is the second film in the Fantastic Beasts franchise, The Crimes of Grindelwald. Eddie Redmayne returns as Newt Scamander, the oddball wizard who teams up with his mentor, a young Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) to stop the dastardly plan of dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp).

Much of the film’s plot has been shrouded in mystery, which becomes even more interesting when Redmayne is asked how to describe the plot at a Q&A for the film. “I would say, ‘labyrinthine’!” he says with a grin, alluding to the complicated twists and turns our hero is up against. The decision to come back certainly wasn’t complicated for the Oscar winner.

“It’s just the most wonderful thing” he beams. “There’s something about J.K. Rowling’s work, it’s always been universal. It’s loved by people of different languages, it brings people together. Above and beyond everything, it’s just a hell of a lot of fun! I don’t know what (my cast mates) think, but when you get to swim in this world, it’s one of the great creative and imaginative privileges.”

the character, even down to the way he dresses. “The ageing aspect of it for all of us coming back was (challenging)” he explains. “Certain things, like our costume designer and I tried various different outfits for Newt. We tried various things at the beginning of the film – we tried putting him in a normal tie – and there were some things where it was like ‘no you can’t do that to Newt!’ So we tried experimenting, pushing him from that silhouette. In the end we tried to keep certain elements similar, but to shift in a certain sense of maturity. I think all of the characters did that and it was a wonderful, subtle thing to work in.”

It feels like imagination of steroids, you’re allowed the freedom to play in an already insanely imaginative world with creatives who are given free reign to play at the top of their game.”

Other than the writing, Redmayne also confessed to feeling the old magic once he walked back into production for the muchanticipated sequel. “There’s nothing more joyous than arriving on one of these sets” he says. “It feels like imagination of steroids, you’re allowed the freedom to play in an already insanely imaginative world with creatives who are given free reign to play at the top of their game. For all of us coming back, we have the most wonderful time on the first film, and I love (director) David Yates for hiring such a wonderful band of people for the next film, because it is actual joy. It’s such fun to come to work, and there was never a day when it felt anything less than that.”

With it being his second time as Newt, the actor, who won an Academy Award for playing Professor Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything, admitted to feeling a little protective of

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Coming back also afforded him the opportunity to work closely with Jude Law, a new addition to the cast playing the future Hogwarts headmaster. “I love the relationship that Jo (Rowling) has sketched between us two, and it begins to get investigated in this film” he says. “One of the things I adore about Newt is that he is entirely his own person, and that is something that, when he’s been taught by Dumbledore as a kid, that’s something Dumbledore’s really respected. Part of this film really is that master/apprentice thing, Dumbledore’s always gently manipulating Newt, and Newt’s kind of conscious of it, but he can’t help but love him.”

Finally, the Fantastic Beasts series is of course a prelude to the Harry Potter franchise. While he is very happy being Newt, which Harry Potter character would he liked to have played? “That’s a fantastic question. I suppose I’d love to be Hagrid” he says with a chuckle. “He loves those creatures as much if not more than Newt does. I’d have to kind of eat a load of protein and go to the gym continuously, take some kind of cryogenic something or other, but yeah probably Hagrid, that’s who I’d choose!”

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald is in cinemas from 16th November.

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INTERVIEW

“WE WERE SO PROUD” Robbie Williams on his daughter’s role as a royal bridesmaid, working with his wife and this year’s ‘X FACTOR’ hopefuls.

T

he moment Princess Eugenie walked down the aisle of St Georges Chapel in Windsor was a very special one for Robbie Williams. The singer and his wife Ayda beamed with pride as their six-year-old daughter Theodora – known as Teddy – fulfilled her role as bridesmaid perfectly, smiling at her parents as she passed by.

Ayda, 39, admitted the big day was ‘a proud mummy moment’, joking: ‘As a mum, you are nervous. Is she going to lose it? Is she going to cause chaos? Is there going to be a temper tantrum in front of [Her Majesty] the Queen?’ Fortunately, Theodora did her parents proud, with Ayda admitting, ‘She was just like a dream. I was so proud. When she walked up the aisle, she didn’t know where I’d be standing, she saw me and she did a little cheeky smile and I got so emotional. It’s such a big stage and a big moment for everybody. She owned it, I was so proud of her.’

How proud were you of Teddy at Eugenie’s wedding?

I was so proud. All the kids were stood outside the church and they were all waving and my Teddy went [puts fist in the air]. I loved it.

Did she really ask Sarah, Duchess of York, if she was the Queen?

Yes. We did say: ‘Baby, you should reall see a picture of the Queen before you meet her.’ And she said: ‘No, I’m alright.’ So she didn’t in the end, which is why she asked the duchess if she was the Queen. But she gave a flower to the Queen. We were so proud. We were sat there and as Princess Eugenie and Jack [Brooksbank] were walking up, she caught our eye. It was a great day.

I was so proud. All the kids were stood outside the church and they were all waving and my Teddy went [puts fist in the air].

I loved it.

Robbie first met Eugenie’s mother Sarah, Duchess of York when they both enjoyed a Caribbean holiday on Phones 4u tycoon John Caudwell’s yacht, and has been a friend of the family ever since. So it was no surprise the pop star played an integral part in proceedings, even getting up on stage to entertain reception goers! Ayda revealed: ‘He did a little impromptu performance. It was incredible. It was really good.

It was amazing that he went from eating his dinner to jumping up on stage.’

The couple are also parents to Charlie, four, and welcomed daughter Colette, known as Coco, via surrogate back in September. And Ayda has since revealed that her sharp maternal instincts left her guessing that the Duchess of Sussex was in fact pregnant, days before she and Harry officially announced the news. With Meghan’s style choices at the wedding sparking her curiosity, she said: ‘I had my suspicions, not that I had any confirmation of that. But that coat, as a lady when you’ve had babies, a button-up coat and you wear it indoors?’

Following their royal weekender, Ayda joined her fellow X Factor judge husband for a date night at the Royal Festival Hall for the ITV gala. As the duo continued to ‘nurse a hangover’, Robbie opens up about being a proud dad and Teddy’s confusion over the monarch’s identity…

Do you and Ayda chat about The X Factor much at home?

Yes. We went and saw the contestants and worked through what songs they will or won’t be doing. That was great because they’re all excited.

Is being on the show everything you hoped it would be?

It’s even more than I hoped it would be. I didn’t think it was going to be this much fun. I didn’t think we were going to love it and embrace it and want to do it again, but we do. We love it.

Do your children watch the show?

They’re not interested. But they will be when they know it’s a clever ploy to stay up late.

Do you wish you had done The X Factor sooner now you’ve realised it’s a fun show to do?

No, I’m doing it at he right time. I was scared to do it before but I now know that I shouldn’t be. It’s a lot of fun. I’m in safe hands. I love Simon [Cowell], I love Louis [Tomlinson] and obviously I’m quite partial to my wife, so it’s all good.

Piers Morgan has criticised men wearing papooses. Did you wear one with your kids?

Yes, but I was scared about crushing the baby. I only did it once. But I saw that, Piers was having a go at somebody, right? I think it’s silly.

When you see a guy with a baby in a papoose and they’re walking down the street, you’re like: ‘Ahh, it’s so cute.’

The X Factor is on ITV Saturday and Sunday nights

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Next Set of 4 Silver Effect Champagne Flutes £20

John Lewis Moonstone Snowball and Pearl Wreath £30

Sainsbury’s Home Silver Dinner Candles £3.50

H&M Classic Collection £12.99

HOME FOR

Christmas The Christmas holidays will be here before you know it.

In addition to buying gifts, planning get-togethers, and taking time off for vacations, it also means decorating your household, and why not add a touch of silver to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

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Wilko Grey Blanket £6

Amara Wedgwood Festive Silver Mug Set of 4 £95

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Laura Ashley Silver Damask Set of 6 Luxury Crackers £20

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Matalan Marble Mug £2.50

John Lewis Jet Marble Effect Bauble £6

John Lewis Marta Marble Wall Clock £40

Zara Home Marble Candle with a Leaf Plaque £17.99

JD Williams Home Fluid Marble Cushion £15

Sainsbury’s Home Marble Everyday Luxury Dinner Plate £3.75

Christmas

Alberto & Moo Green Marble Mini Paddle Board £15

IS IN THE AIR

Set the scene for a fabulous festive feast with our marble Christmas table decorations. Whether it’s lunch for two or a family of 10, our place settings and accessories are sure to impress. You can transform any space with these Christmas room decorations.

Add a cosy cushions, ornate ornaments and strings of lights to your home for an instant festive feel.

Artisanti Stratos Black Marble Effect Square Platter £45 Cuckooland Marble Side Table in Emerald Green £119

Amara Katie Leamon Assorted Marble Christmas Cracker Set Of 6 £45

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M&S Marble & Ash Tree Platter £29.50

ISTORIA PROVIDES A WIDE RANGE OF BESPOKE HARDWOOD FLOORING MADE IN ENGLAND BY JORDAN ANDREWS With over 250 custom colours to choose from and an option to match your own existing floor or a custom sample, Istoria offers an extensive range with a choice of looks from sleek and modern to rough and rustic that comes in plank, herringbone, chevron and other patterns.

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www.jordanandrews.com

FILM INTERVIEW

Dakota

JOHNSON The actor talks mental health and embracing her dreams in horror Suspiria.

D

akota Johnson walks (or is that dances?) on the wild side this month in Suspiria, a remake of the cult horror film about a dancer at a prestigious school where supernatural occurrences begin to happen. The film has received rave reviews at film festivals and features a cast that includes Tilda Swinton, Chloe Grace Moretz as well as a soundtrack by Radiohead’s Thom Yorke.

The star of the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy relished the opportunity to appear in the film. “The film is about things that I loved so much, and still love so much – it’s about dancers, witches, magic, and I grew up just loving these things and being fascinated by these groups of women and feeling like they were mysterious and magical” she says at a press conference for the film. “To have this kind of inside look into these things that seemed so mystical to me was perfect. It’s truly a dream-cometrue project for me.”

I absorb a lot of people’s feelings. And sometimes when you work on a dark subject matter, it can stay with you” The film deals with some very dark, intense story that led to some reports that the role had put her in therapy. The 29-yearold, who comes from acting royalty in mother Melanie Griffith and father Don Johnson, insists the stories were blown out of proportion.

“First of all, I was not psychoanalysed, and I hope I never will be,” Johnson says in response to a rumour she had been adversely affected by the film. “I find sometimes, when I work on a project – and I don’t have any shame in this – but I’m a very porous person, and I absorb a lot of people’s feelings. And sometimes when you work on a dark subject matter, it can stay with you.

And to talk to somebody really nice about it afterwards is a really nice way to move on from the project. And my therapist is a very nice woman!”

While she is very pro-active in looking after her mental health, Johnson adds that working on the film was not at all traumatic.

“It was the most fun, most exhilarating, and the most joyful experience that it could be. So it wasn’t that the film sent me to a psyche ward, it’s just that I have a lot feelings!”

Suspiria is in cinemas from 16th November

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Food lovers everywhere will appreciate the breadth of restaurants and variety of cuisine now available locally. At Close Up we were anxious to try all our featured restaurants as we took a gastronomic tour of the area. We invite you to do the same.

Be sure to check through the pages carefully and make use of discounts, free bottles of wine and more.

FOOD SUPPLEMENT

BON APPÉTIT

BRASSERIE Book Your Christmas Parties Now! December 2018 Enjoy in-house London’s renowned top DJ Andreas Michaelides Set menu available

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FOOD SUPPLEMENT

BRASSERIE

HEALTH

On the 12th day of fitness...

Close Up gave to me, the best health alternatives, facts and figures, and must-have products!

Christmas FACTS & FIGURES

6000 On Christmas day, most of us will consume up to 6000 calories – that’s 3 times the recommended intake for women and more than 2 times for men!

Fight off the WINTER nasties…

If you are planning on having a drink or two this Christmas, spare a thought for your body, and your liver in particular!

Make sure to keep yourself hydrated and try to include some alkalising foods in your festive diet!

While your body is under strain during this period of heavy indulgence and fighting off winter bugs, try to eat plenty of fresh, seasonal (and preferably organic) fruit, vegetables and whole grains to give your immune system a much needed boost!

48g

½

The average Brit will gain up to half a stone over the Christmas period!

The average Christmas dinner racks up 956 calories and a huge 48g of fat!

Healthy ALTERNATIVES

• Instead of sitting down to watch TV after Christmas dinner, why not go for a brisk walk or a cycle? Just a brief period of exercise like this can burn around 200 calories, will get your digestive system working and your lymphatic system flowing…

• Like your roast potatoes? Chop them into larger pieces – less of the fat will be absorbed.

• By replacing unhealthy snacks like crisps and chocolate with fresh fruit, nuts and seeds, you can support your nutrient intake (and therefore immune system) over the Christmas period, with vitamins, minerals and Omega oils… avoid the salted, processed versions if you can!

• Carrots are a great source of beta carotene, which our body turns into vitamin A – vital for vision and growth.

• Use fresh cranberries in your cranberry sauce!

They’re packed with antioxidants and other goodies.

• Don’t write off sprouts!

They are the ‘superfoods’ of Christmas and are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, folate and more!

YOUR Christmas SURVIVAL PACK...

By the end of the festive season you can start to feel like you’ve overdone it! Here are some of our favourite detoxes and products to get you back on track.

1. Elemis Cellutox Active Body Concentrate £30 2. Liz Earle Daily Energising Kit £20 3. Bootea 28 Day Detox £17.99

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FOOD SUPPLEMENT

FOOD

Winter WARMERS Yes indeed it’s that time of year already, when the food on your table needs to be just that little bit more warming and comforting. What better way to welcome in the colder months then than a lovely roast and a warm dessert?

Cook’s tip

Leg of lamb with redcurrant jelly glaze Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes Serves: 4 with leftovers Ingredients 3 parsnips (about 300g), peeled and quartered 1 tbsp olive oil 4 charlotte potatoes (about 400g), cut into wedges 200g radishes, trimmed 1 garlic bulb, halved 5 rosemary sprigs 2 tbsp redcurrant jelly Waitrose & Partners Boneless Extra Trimmed Welsh Half Leg of Lamb (about 750g) 200ml fresh chicken stock

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Radishes are a great addition to roasted vegetables as they have a nice pepperiness. You could also add turnips and carrots to the mix, if you like.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180˚C, gas mark 4. Put the parsnips in a large roasting tin and sprinkle over ½ tbsp oil. Season and roast for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and add the potatoes, radishes, garlic halves and rosemary sprigs to the tin. Toss together in the remaining ½ tbsp oil and season.

2. Warm the redcurrant jelly in the microwave and brush all over the lamb. Season and sit the lamb on top of the veg, then pour in the stock. Roast for 1 hour, turning the veg halfway through. Ensure the surface of the meat is thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear, then remove from the oven and squeeze the roasted garlic out into the roasting tin. Mix with the veg and roasting juices and transfer to a serving dish.

3. Slice the lamb and arrange on top of the vegetables, drizzling with the roasting juices. Serve with steamed green vegetables and more redcurrant jelly on the side, if liked.

Apple, ginger & honey cake Vegetarian Preparation time: 25 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes Serves: 8-10 Ingredients 200g unsalted butter, softened 75g Tate & Lyle Golden Caster Cane Sugar 175g clear honey 3 British Blacktail Free Range Eggs 250g self-raising flour 1 tbsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 apple, cored and cut into 1cm chunks Topping 1 apple, cored and sliced 50g honey

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

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 160˚C, gas mark 3; grease a 20cm round cake tin and line the base and sides with baking parchment. Using electric beaters, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy – about 3-4 minutes. Beat in the honey, then the eggs, one at a time. Combine the dry ingredients, adding a pinch of salt, and fold into the creamed mixture, then stir through the apple chunks.

2. Tip the mixture into the tin and arrange the sliced apple over the top. Bake for 1 hour-1 hour 15 minutes, until set on top and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean (cover loosely with a sheet of foil after about 45-55 minutes if it starts to look too dark on top). Cool in the tin.

3. Remove from the tin. Warm the remaining 50g honey in a pan or the microwave, and spoon or brush over the cake.

Cook’s tip This cake is equally good made with pears, adding 1 tsp mixed spice instead of the ginger.

FOOD SUPPLEMENT

FOOD

Under New Management 729 Green Lanes, London N21 3RX

020 8360 2772

cafebrunellos

Enjoy your Christmas and New Year celebrations at Cocorico Welcome to Cocorico! Where you will find an extensive choice of all your favourite Italian dishes served in a comfortable environment and calm atmosphere.

“Our motto has always been…

4 star food at 2 star prices” Once again, it is the Christmas season – time to enjoy yourself and spend some time with family and friends. If you are thinking of eating out, why not try our establishment for your Christmas Party?

Here at Cocorico, our staff are determined to offer you the perfect combination for your celebrations. Prices, ambience, quality, choices and atmosphere are the key to an enjoyable party with friends and family.

Provided for you are three competitive set menus with a variety of choices and prices starting as low as £19.90. From Italian specialities, fresh fish, chicken and more, here at Cocorico, we have put together an extensive spread for everyone to choose from.

Please remember to book early to avoid disappointment.

We are also open of Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. With best wishes for a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year

Buon Natale & Felice Anno Nuovo Check out our full menu online www.cocoricorestaurant.co.uk Visit us at: 1314-1316 High Road, Whetstone N20 9HJ

020 8445 1188

FOOD SUPPLEMENT

Italian Restaurant

FOOD

FEELING

festive

Forego the fruitcake this year and give one of these decadent desserts a try.

Cook’s tip

Simple passion fruit cheesecakes Vegetarian Preparation time: 10 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients 4 stem ginger biscuits 20g butter, melted 4 Waitrose Large Passion Fruit 250g pack essential Waitrose Creamy Soft Cheese 150g Greek-style coconut yogurt 3 tbsp icing sugar

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Try the soft cheese mixture and add more or less icing sugar to suit your taste and balance the tart flavour of the passion fruit.

Method 1. Break the biscuits into coarse crumbs and mix with the melted butter. Divide between 4 glasses and place in the fridge for 5 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, halve the passion fruit and scoop out the pulp and seeds and set this aside.

3. Beat together the soft cheese, yogurt and icing sugar until smooth then stir in half the passion fruit.

4. Divide between the glasses and spoon over the remaining passion fruit. Chill until ready to serve.

Brownie ice cream cake Vegetarian Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes + cooling and freezing Serves: 12 Ingredients 175g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing 200g golden caster sugar 225g dark chocolate, roughly chopped 3 Waitrose British Blacktail Medium Free Range Eggs, separated 65g plain flour 1 tsp ground cinnamon 950ml tub Kelly’s Cornish Parlour Honeycomb Crunch Ice Cream ½ x 300g pouch Waitrose Belgian Chocolate Sauce 1 tbsp Cooks’ Homebaking Honeycomb Niblets

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 4. Butter and baseline 2 x 20cm cake tins. Place the butter, sugar and 175g of the chocolate in a large saucepan and heat gently until melted, stirring occasionally. Leave to cool.

2. Beat the egg yolks into the chocolate mixture then stir in the flour, cinnamon and remaining chopped chocolate. Whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks then gently fold into the chocolate mixture. Divide between the prepared tins and bake for 20–25 minutes until just set. Remove the cakes from the tins and leave to cool completely.

3. Upturn 1 cake onto a freezerproof serving plate, scoop the ice cream into small balls and place on the cake base. Sandwich the second brownie cake on top then spread with the chocolate sauce.

Sprinkle over the honeycomb niblets then transfer the cake to a freezer and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. Use a large knife to cut into slices and serve.

Cook’s tip

Placing the assembled cake in a deep 22cm cake tin will protect it during freezing.

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

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An invitation to attend our New Reception Playground and Classroom opening Ceremony Friday 2nd November from 1pm The opening ceremony will take place from 1pm and prospective parents, nursery representatives and residents are welcome to come along and join us.

The Early Years Team aims to provide a stimulating, active and enthusiastic approach to the boys’ learning. Our experienced teaching team delivers a curriculum that focuses on developing boys academically, physically, creatively and socially in small class sizes (an average of 15 boys per class).

As part of our commitment to developing the whole boy we are now ready to unveil our exciting new Reception playground, splitting the space into two areas to allow for free-flow indoor/ outdoor play.

We think this area will give the boys almost limitless opportunities to enhance their learning through play, exploration, problem solving, collaboration and, most of all, fun!

Call Jane Wicks for more information if you would like to attend: 0208 360 3359.

Tel: 020 8360 3359 Email: admissions@kebleprep.co.uk www.kebleprep.co.uk, Wades Hill, Winchmore Hill, London N21 1BG

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12/01/2018 16:26

FILM REVIEW We’ve got four reviews of unique, challenging films this month, plus a special preview of the big movies leading up to the Christmas season. Enjoy!

Wildlife 9th November

★★★★★

Actor Paul Dano (Ruby Sparks, TV’s War and Peace) directs Carey Mulligan and Jake Gyllenhaal in a story of a young man in the 1960’s who begins to see a different side of his mother (Mulligan) when his father (Gyllenhaal) leaves to fight a local forest fire. A captivating story of family secrets that taps away at the expectations placed on all of us as we go into adulthood.

This is boosted by a standout performance from Mulligan, who is simply mesmerising. Certainly a film to look out for once awards season comes around.

Won’t You Be My Neighbour?

9th November

★★★★★

A documentary about Fred Rogers, the humble man known to many generations of Americans as the host of Mister Rogers’ neighbourhood. The film explores the lessons he taught millions, his focus on mental health and kindness, and the unique outlook of the man held dear to a nation. At a time when kindness seems in short supply, this superb documentary reminds us of the values that portray humanity at its best. A wonderfully crafted film about a once-in-a-lifetime personality.

Suspiria 16th November

★★★★★

A dance company director, a dancer, and a psychotherapist are all caught in an unusual sequence of events that threatens to destroy them in a remake of Dario Argento’s cult 70’s horror film.

Thoughtful and twisted, this new version of a much loved film embraces the madness and peculiarity in a way that hasn’t been seen since last year’s polarising mother! We hated that film, and many may hate this, but there is enough artistic merit to delight those who love a walk on the wild side.

Assassination Nation 23rd November

★★★ ★★

A dark and messy satire about a small town that descends into chaos once most of its citizens have their online content hacked and leaked. The film has a lot of interesting ideas, particularly on the subject of identity, and our sense of morality in an age where everyone is elbowing each other for digital space. It doesn’t provide all the answers, but does offer a unique take on how small screens are transforming the way we live, interact, and think.

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FILM REVIEW

November Preview…

There’s lots of new and exciting films this month that have been kept under wraps at the time of going to print.

Here are the ones we’re most excited for!

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald

The Girl In The Spider’s Web

16th November

The second reboot of The Millennium series (after 2011’s The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo) has a new star in The Crown actress Claire Foy, who plays a hacker who uncovers a widespread web of corruption and abuse. After the seminal Swedish original The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, it’s been hard to recapture the same magic particularly through a Hollywood lens. That said, with one of the industry’s most promising talents in the lead, it’s sure to be a thriller to pull in the crowds!

The second instalment in the Fantastic Beasts series sees Eddie Redmayne’s Newt Scamander help his old mentor, Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) as he tries to thwart the villainous plot of Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp). This sequel has had a rocky road to the screen, with controversies surrounding both the casting of Depp and the portrayal of Dumbledore’s sexuality.

However, fans will be hoping that there’s still magic to be found in the continuing adventures of Newt and his friends!

21st November

Creed 2

Wreck-It Ralph 2

30th November

30th November

After six Rocky films came 2015’s Creed, a reboot of sorts that sees Sylvester Stallone take a back seat to Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan), the son of his former rival Apollo Creed.

This new film sees Adonis up against Viktor Drago, the son of the man who killed his father. With Dolph Lundgren returning to one of his famous roles, fans of Rocky’s 80’s heyday will be over the moon at the nostalgia-fest, while also hoping that the sequel can expand the new world started with Creed. Whatever the outcome, we’ll be hoping for a knock out at the end of the month!

It’s the return of Wreck-It Ralph, the destructive video game character that broke free from his game in the 2012 original hit.

This time, he’s going online! Ralph and friend Venellope go into the internet in search of a steering wheel that will save their friends, only to encounter a galaxy of new friends, enemies, and obstacles. Featuring cameos from everything from Star Wars to the Disney Princesses, Ralph’s world is sure to get bigger and brighter, but will it be better? Log in on the 30th!

Agree? Disagree? Tweet us @closeupmag #CloseUpFilm

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TRAVEL

St Moritz Lying at the foot of the majestic Alpine peaks in the heart of Switzerland Engadine valley, St Moritz has long been a winter playground for the rich and famous.

T

he name is synonymous with glitz and glamour, so it’s no surprise to learn that the resort boasts Europe’s highest airport and during the peak winter season more than 40 private jets arrive each day! Some people come for the skiing and the sunshine (the resorts boasts 322 days a year) but others never set foot on a piste. There are plenty of designer stores to amuse the ladies who lunch, while others come to watch the annual polo, horse racing and cricket competition on the towns frozen lake.

Where should I stay?

Survetta house, a fairy castle-style hotel complete with turrets, is just 2km outside the main resort and is certainly no ordinary ski hotel but a lavish, luxury destination in its own right. Many guests come here to enjoy its superb spa, gourmet dining establishments and miniature ice skating rink. Stay in one of the elegant rooms and you will enjoy breathtaking views of the mountainous scenery from the window. For skiers, the 188-room hotel is a delight as it has its own ski suits and gloves and ski guide Gian confessed to teaching princess Caroline of Monaco when she last stayed. At Christmas, the Suvretta is very much a family affair and the exquisitely decorated Christmas trees, roaring fires and hot Gluhwein (mulled wine) are bound to get you in the festive mood. Where should I ski?

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The Olympic downhill slopes and cross-country skiing tracks are world famous, having played host to two winter Olympics.

There are four large contrasting ski areas. – Corviglia/ Piz Nair, Corvatsch/ Furtschellas, Diavolezza/ Lagalb and Zuoz – offering 350km of piste and 35 mountain restaurants.

Where can I shop?

Via Serlas is to St Moritz what Rodeo Drive is to Beverly Hills.

Here, you’ll find Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Vercase, Prada and Roberto Cavalli so you’ll have no excuse for not being suitably attired. For ski gear, there’s Jetset or Ender sport and if you’re hinting for a marriage proposal, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Asprey, Cartier, Van Cleef and Arpels, Chopard and Bulgari within a stones throw of each other. Don’t forget to check out the watches – it is Switzerland after all.

What can non-skiers do?

If you want to hobnob with the stars (George Clooney has attended!), visit during the polo world cup on snow (January 30th – February 2nd), when the world’s best players compete on the resort’s frozen lake. Other draws include the whiteturf horse races on Sundays in February, the Swiss bobsleigh championships and the St Moritz Gourmet Festival. If pampering is more your scene, head for the Suvretta’s outdoor hot-tub, where you can touch the snow while unwinding in water of 36 degrees.

TRAVEL

What celebrities might I see?

Supermodel Claudia Schiffer and her family like to come during the festive period, while Lord Freddie Windsor and his actress wife Sophie Winklemen have holidayed here too. Robbie Williams and Tina Turner have stayed at the swanky Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, which has a winter outpost of London’s famed Nobu restaurant. Model mum Elizabeth Hurley and her family are a familiar sight. Boris Becker married his model love Lily Kerssenberg on a tiny hilltop above St Moritz, followed by a lavish reception at Badrutt’s Palace.

Decorated christmas trees, roaring fires and hot mulled wine are bound to get you in the festive mood”

views, try Trutz or Chasellas. La Marmite in Corviglia is the ultra sophisticated choice – think champagne, caviar and truffles.

If you’re staying at the Survretta, dress up to the nines (black tie is a must) and, after sipping a Bellini at Anton’s, head for the grand restaurant (with carved oak ceilings and panelled walls) to savour delights such as veal on pomerry mustard foam with crispy potato fritters, and espresso ice-cream with chipped chocolate. Alternatively, you can enjoy mushroomcrusted beef fillet, and cappuccino crème brûlée at the hotel’s rustic Stube restaurant.

Where is the nightlife?

If you want to rub shoulders with Robert de Niro or gorgeous George, the legendary Moroccan themed King club, within Badrutt’s Palace, is still the place to be seen. Be warned, though, a bottle of beer can cost about £20, the vodka only comes by the bottle and the champagne costs as much as a car! Dracula is another popular venue, while the après-ski Roo bar and Vivai club appeals to a younger crowd.

How do I get there?

Room rates at the Suvretta hotel, a member of the leading Hotels of the world, start from £230. This includes lunch or dinner, services, taxes, VAT, use of indoor pool and spa and free bus transfers to downtown St Moritz. Visit the website for special packages. Swiss international airlines flies regularly from London city airport to Zurich. A good train service connects Zurich airport to St Moritz.

Where can I eat?

No trip to St Moritz would be complete without a visit to the traditional Hanselmann tea room, which sells more than 60 types of chocolate and an amazing array of calorific pastries.

Up the mountain, if you’re looking for a lunch spot with fabulous

Suvretta hotel: 00 41 81 836 3636 www/suvrettahouse.ch/en Swiss international airlines: www.swiss.com/uk

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Make the countdown to Christmas 2018 with this luxurious beauty advent calendar, containing 24 travel sizes of the most popular premium products.

Discover 24 luxury miniature products, perfect for a daily pamper session in the lead up to the festive period. From the coveted Divine Cream, to the sensuous Terre de Lumière fragrance, you will have everything you need to look and feel your best in December. £89 worth £112 uk.loccitane.com

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NOVEMBER 2018

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EDITORIAL

THE HOUSE THAT’S JUST LIKE IN THE FAIRY TALES…

PROPERTY NEWS YOUR MUST-READ MONTHLY ROUND-UP

CHER’S OLD HOME: A BARGAIN AT $68MILLION

This dreamboat of a cottage looks like it should have a starring role in a Disney movie, but is located in the village of Shrivenham in the Vale of the White Horse rather than in Hollywood. The story behind it is something of a fairy tale, as it was built as a summerhouse in the mid 1800’s by Lord Barrington of Beckett Park, the local stately pile, who wanted to replicate the house in Switzerland where he’d enjoyed his honeymoon. Featuring exposed beams and bricks, diamond glazing and a steeply pitched, thatched roof, it’s for sale at £600,000, via zoopla.co.uk.

STAMP OF CONFUSION

Away from her amazing stage act, costumes and the big screen, Cher has created a series of elegant homes. In 1980, fresh from her divorce from Sonny Bono, she designed and built a Beverly Hills mansion on a four-acre site. The star – who’s an unbelievable 72 – sold the house to Eddie Murphy in the late 1980’s and the next owners acquired more land and turned it into a 14-acre equestrian estate, the largest in the area. Now incorporating 11 bedrooms, 17 bathrooms, tennis courts, an outdoor kitchen and pool, it’s now on the market again at $68million, $17million below its original asking price, via toptenrealestatedeals.com.

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Recent stamp duty changes are causing confusion among those trying to get on the ladder. According to research from online broker L&C Mortgages, a third of first-time buyers in England don’t know if the stamp duty abolition will benefit them, and 13 per cent wrongly think that they can save over £5,000 when buying, something that’s actually impossible under the new rules. Two in five people purchasing a first home costing between £125,000 and £500,000 either believe that stamp duty relief wont help them or don’t know if it could.

‘More needs to be done to ensure first-time buyers know what is available to them,’ says David Hollingworth of L&C. ‘The new rules could be complicated to someone who hasn’t purchased property before. The lack of understanding uncovered though our research could mean that some first-time buyers think that owning their own home is one step further away than it actually is.’

The stamp duty changes in November’s budget mean that firsttime buyers are up to £5,000 better off when purchasing a home costing £500,000 or under. They pay no tax at all on first homes up to £300,000 and five per cent on the balance between £300,000 and £500,000. So, for example, £7,5000 duty is now payable on a £450,000 property, as opposed to £12,500 before the budget.

‘I PAID £90,000 IN 2003 AND STILL HAVE THE PLACE TODAY’ THE RADIO PRESENTER LIKES TO PUT HIS MONEY IN BRICKS AND MORTAR BUT SAYS BUYING IN LA WAS A STEP TOO FAR. The TV and radio presenter Gethin Jones, 40, presents Hits Radio’s breakfast show from 6am – 10am. He first stepped on to the property ladder when he was 25 and hasn’t looked back.

What was the first property you bought?

A two-bedroom maisonette in Cardiff in 2003. My grandfather had saved some money for me as a deposit. It was on for £110,000 and I put in an offer of £90,000. They wanted a quick sale and accepted it.

I still have it to this day.

Why did you buy it?

I’d just got my first TV job in north Wales and I thought I’d be able to come back to Cardiff quite often, but it didn’t work out that way so I ended up renting it out.

What changes did you make?

I put in a new kitchen and bathroom and decorated it. My friend Steve helped with the kitchen. We got it from B&Q but then had problems fitting it – especially getting the worktops to match on a corner. I respect anyone who has that skill you have to measure it perfectly.

What was becoming a landlord like?

I knew someone who worked at an estate agent who managed it – but you worry when you get an email saying the shower isn’t working. It covered the rent I was paying in north Wales. I’ve usually had long-term tenants and never had any problems. Being a tenant myself, I know it’s important to have a good landlord.

Have you invested in anything else?

Doing this job is quite unstable so I’ve always put money into bricks and mortar. I bought a ground-floor flat in a conversion in southwest London and ten years later I bought the upstairs flat. I sold both properties together. House prices had gone up, and I’d got planning permission to turn the flats back into one house. I don’t know if the new owners did that or demolished the whole thing and started again.

You worked in Los Angeles – did you consider buying a place there?

I talked about buying with a friend but sometimes I’m not great at being organised and I was concerned things would get out of control. There are different rules if you have a British passport and I didn’t have a full visa. I had a motorbike and a car out there and I forget to do the insurance so I was worried what I might overlook with a flat.

You’ve moved to Manchester – will you be buying?

There’s so much going on with Media City and there’s building work everywhere. I did my dissertation on the regeneration of Manchester after the bombing and it’s changed so much over 20 years. I’d like to buy a pace with a bit of character but I’m renting at the moment.

Any tips for making a new location feel like home?

For me, sport is a big thing when I move to a new place. My best friends in LA are from the football team I joined. In Manchester, I’ve joined a five-a-side team. My co-presenter Gemma Atkinson knows the city and has taken me to places she likes, too.

What do you take with you on all your moves?

Photos. There’s one of me being the most northerly person in mainland Europe when I did the show 71 Degrees North. There’s a picture of me with a girl called Miriam who I met in Madagascar when I was building an orphanage there for a TV show. It’s of us walking back from work. That show meant a lot to me and she’s no longer with us. And there’s a picture of the plane I learned to fly in when I got my pilot’s licence.

Hitsradio.co.uk

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New Rules For Recovering Commercial Rent Arrears

- expert disputes solicitor Jenny Howe explains

M

ost Landlords of commercial premises have experienced problems with tenants failing to pay rent. One option in that case was for the Landlord or a certified bailiff to go onto the premises and seize the Tenant’s belongings to the value of the rent owed, and sell the goods to settle or reduce the debt. This is known as ‘distress’ or the right to ‘distrain’.

The advantages of distress is that there is that the Landlord can act quickly – he can enter and seize goods as soon as the rent is due, avoiding the delay involved with issuing a claim at court for the money and enforcing the judgment. Unlike other breaches of tenancy, there’s no need for the Landlord to serve a notice on the tenant first.

But the death knell has been sounded for distress – the general view is that it could offend the principles of the Human Rights Act. Together with the uncertainty of ‘do it yourself’ remedies generally, it looks as if the days of distraining for rent are numbered.

In it’s place we will see a regime which will be controlled by the courts and which will be known as Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR.) The crucial departure is the new requirement for the Landlord to serve notice on the Tenant before he takes any action – much as in the majority of lease forfeiture cases. There will also need to be a minimum level of rent outstanding before the Landlord can serve the notice.

Landlords might well be concerned that the prior notice will simply allow the Tenant time to dispose of the goods on his premises, with the result that the Landlord loses his best chance of recovering the arrears. The Tenant will also have a grace period before the enforcement officer goes in. He can apply to court and ask for the notice to be set aside or to delay its enforcement. The Landlord can only personally seize the goods under the new scheme if he meets certain criteria regarding enforcement agents.

It’s important to ensure that you take expert advice before taking any action against defaulting tenants – whether commercial or residential – and to ensure that appropriate rent deposits and guarantees are in place at the outset.

The above article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. For expert advice on any type of dispute contact Jenny on 020 8370 2889 or by email at jennyhowe@vanderpumps.co.uk

Whilst the end of distress will probably be seen as another blow to Landlords, it’s fair to say that it’s something of an anomaly in the context of the general trend of Landlord and Tenant legislation.

Landlord’s rights to sue for rent and terminate residential tenancies have completely overhauled within the last few years and the CRAR scheme looks to be taking commercial rent arrears cases down a similar road. The net result is that Tenants are better protected.

020 8367 3999 www.vanderpumpandsykes.co.uk

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

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Vanderpump & Sykes LLP Lough Point, 2 Gladbeck Way Enfield, Middlesex EN2 7JA

T: 020 8367 3999 F: 020 8367 6252

vanderpumpandsykes.co.uk @VanderpumpSykes

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