SURREY ROCKS DECEMBER ISSUE by Surrey Rocks

ISSUE 04

THE ECO XMAS GIFT GUIDE XMAS & NYE

ISSUE

ULTIMATE

PA R T Y DRESSING

SORTED

GUMBALL 3000

Shakira

A quintessentially English estate overlooking the Surrey Hills, a place to indulge, relax, an and the former home of celebrated publisher and backstage politician, 1st Baron Beav There's more to the Beaverbrook Estate than meets the eye.

Hotel - Tennis Club - The Coach House Spa - Fitness & Wellbeing - Fine Dinin The Garden House - Japanese Grill - The Coach House Deli - Sir Frank’s Bar

 +44 (0)1372 571300

 Beaverbrook, Reigate Road, L  info@beaverbrook.co.uk

nd celebrate, averbrook.

ng r

THE GARDEN HOUSE RESTAURANT Nestled behind the traditional walled kitchen garden you will find true natural beauty and culinary delights in The Garden House Restaurant. A place where the tranquillity and stunning interiors are inspired by the surrounding gardens - to create an exceptional, must-try Italian-style dining experience.The menu changes constantly with a considered nod to the seasons and fresh fruit, vegetable and herbs on offer in their gardens – which as a guest to The Garden House you are welcome to explore. Plus, invite family and friends to share a traditional English roast on Sundays too. JAPANESE GRILL Located in The House, the award-winning Japanese Grill offers a varied menu of delicately flavoured selections of the most exquisite sushi, sashimi and nigiri.You can also enjoy the finest cuts of meat and fish from the Josper Grill. Or for a fabulously different dining experience, let talented head chef,Wojciech Popow, guide you through the finest selection of locally-sourced, modern Japanese gourmet specialties in their famous six-course “Seasonal Tasting Menu.” A must try is their famous black cod or chargrilled turbot lined with crispy Kentish ants. Definitely one to cross off your fine dining to-do list if you haven’t already. SIR FRANK’S BAR Beaverbrook’s creative director Sir Frank Lowe, was responsible for curating the unique interiors of Beaverbrook with a wide range of antiques, collectables and rare artwork collections.There are over 350 unique 350 paintings by the Victorian artist, Marianne North, a Gatsbyesque art-deco bar with velvet stools and a bar snack menu of Japanese-inspired tacos and light bites.There is also a generous selection of the finest champagnes, wines and cocktails to choose from – all selected, shaken and stirred by their world-class sommeliers and mixologists. If you fancy something different you can ask your Beaverbrook bartender to come up with something new for you. THE COACH HOUSE SPA At the Coach House Spa your experience of health, vitality and nature is inspired by the natural surroundings. Set in 400 acres of stunning English parkland and designed with nature at its core by the highly-acclaimed artist, Brian Clark, you will encounter dappled iridescent light from canopies of stained-glass ceilings creating a radiant, colourful oasis of calm.Take a dip or recline by the indoor or outdoor pool taking in the stunning views of the Surrey Hills, workout in their state-of-the-art, fully equipped gym or unload those mid-week stresses with one of the many specialist spa treatments on offer.

Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8QX   beaverbrook  www.beaverbrook.co.uk

2 CHURCH STREET, ESHER, SURREY, KT10 8QS

01372 468880

RESERVATIONS:

INFO@CUVEE8.COM

CUVEE8.COM

WEEKLY EVENTS

WEDNESD

THURSD

FRIDAY & SATURD

SATURDAY & SUND

INFO@CUVEE8.COM CUVEE8.COM

01372 468880

IV AT E

Cocktail bars & Alfresco Garden

WELCOME TO DITTO.

OPEN FOR AL FRESCO AND INDOOR DINING 7 DAYS A WEEK.

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY NEW FOR 2021:

HOLD YOUR EVENT AT DITTO – CATERING FOR PARTIES FROM 30 TO 120 GUESTS.

MONDAY TO THURSDAY: MIDDAY TO MIDNIGHT FRIDAY & SATURDAY: MIDDAY TO 1AM SUNDAY:MIDDAY TO 11PM  Ditto Thames Ditton, 85 High Street, Thames Ditton, Surrey, KT7 0SF  020 8398 8662  bookings@dittothamesditton.com   DittoThamesDitton  www.dittothamesditton.com

ISSUE 04

DECEMBER 2021

118 84

NEWS 11 13 14 18 20 24 28

110 Gastronomy Guide 116 Trend 1 Restaurant Review

What’s On Calendar Celebrities For Him For Her Chill In Rock Out

COLUMNISTS

118 Ria Elaina – Let the Festivities Commence 96 Sadie Pizzey – How to Decorate Your Home

FEATURES 36 42 50 84

OUT & ABOUT

Shakira Earthshot 2021 Xmas Gift Guide Cool Laser

124 Xmas Shopping at The Packhouse 126 The Watermill Wows Locals 128 Xmas Spectacular Comes to Oxshott 130 Surrey Hills Sustainability Project

FASHION

62 Wonderlust 72 LUC Clothing

HOMES & INTERIORS

105 Property of the Month

GASTRONOMY

20 8

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

LISTINGS 134 Best of the Web 136 Tarot Reading 138 Astrology 144 60 Second Interview John Altman

144

EDITOR

SAM MATTHEWS

ART EDITOR Teodora Nikolov

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jane Janevski

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ruth Rose Martin Spaven

MUA

Sophie Nicole

CONTRIBUTORS Ria Elaina Atkins Sadie Pizzey Helen Watts Pia Talbot

Surrey Rocks Magazine CONTACT 07746 705444 info@rocksmag.com @surrey_rocks @surreyrocks @surrey_rocks @rocksmag @rocks_mag @rocksmag @rocks_mag ROCKS MAG Company Number: 13297078 The views and opinions expressed by contributors to Surrey Rocks may not represent the views and opinions of the publishers and we cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers. No part of this magazine can be reproduced or copied in any way without written consent from Surrey Rocks.

EDITOR’S NOTE Hello Surrey,

elcome to the December Issue of Surrey Rocks. As much as I don’t want to say it, the pandemic is top of everyone’s minds this month. Hopefully we get this new ‘Omicron’ strain in check – the thought of another bleak winter in lockdown is too much to fathom! On the plus side though, it’s a great excuse to plan those nights out now! Our What’s On and Calendar pages will help you make the most out of the festive season showcasing the best events Surrey has to offer. Other highlights of this issue include a rare celeb moment – especially in WAGville – someone using their platform for greater good. Shakira, our cover star, has certainly done this. She has been elected as a judge on the panel of Prince William’s Earthshot 2021 as well as launching the ‘Barefoot Foundation’ campaigning for the right for every child to have access to education in her native Columbia. Read about Shakira’s rise to fame, her goodwill and the five worthy winners of the £1m Earthshot prize fund, whose remarkable environmental solutions are aiming to save our planet. Elsewhere we bring you The Xmas Gift Guide in case you are struggling for gift ideas For Him, For Her or For Them. Plus, we have two stunning fashion shoots – Wonderlust who currently have a pop up in Bentalls Centre in Kingston and LUC Clothing’s brand new collection of cool loungewear. Last but not least, hats off to all the attendees of the Surrey Hills Tree Sustainability Project on 21st November who braved the cold to plant trees along a 50 metre stretch of the nature reserve in Clandon. Organised by Surrey Hills Enterprises, they are now calling for residents to become a Surrey Hills Champions - supporting community nature recovery projects and increasing local sustainability. Sign up by visiting their website at www.surreyhills.org. Til next time,

Sam SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

ESHER THEATRE

Box Office / Coffee Shop Monday to Friday 8am - 4pm

 Community Walk, Esher, KT10 9RA

 www.eshertheatre.com/whatson  Info@eshertheatre.com  No : 01372 468 848

A brand new local, live entertainment venue awaits you! Find us, just off Esher High street. Bringing you Theatre, Live Music, Comedy, Dance, Halloween, Christmas and New Years events! Art Deco style bar and outdoor seating area serving locally sourced drinks and snacks and beautiful coffees & cakes.

NEWS

WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS & NYE NIGHTS OUT SORTED There is a host of big events happening this December in Surrey so get planning now. From December 1 to Xmas Eve you can sample the best of The Grumpy Mole’s Festive Menu starting at £28.95 per person for 2 courses. On December 11, Pounding Heart in Esher is hosting a Great Gatsby themed party, CuVee VIII has Legends of Swing with Ray Lowe on December 19 while Pounding Heart, Niku, Red and Humming’s have DJ’s every Friday and Saturday night till late. Celebrate NYE in style with a 7-course menu at The Victoria in Oxshott for only £125 per person. Or boogie your way into 2022 with Groove Warriors & Guest DJ’s at Esher Theatre. Alternatively, enjoy a 6-piece big band night at Ditto Thames Ditton or Rind are offering 4 courses and bubbles for £49.

RED LAUNCH KIDS FILM CLUB Red Bar & Café in Weybridge are launching a Festive Kids Cinema Club this December 22nd showing the cult favourite children’s Christmas film ‘Elf’ starring Will Ferrell. The film starts at 11.30am followed by a Christmas Disco with delicious food and all the fun trimmings; including popcorn, candy canes and gingerbread men. The event costs £5 entry per child with accompanying adults free of charge. Red insiders have said this may well become a regular monthly fixture at the popular bar and café. See www.red-restaurant.co.uk to book.

LUXURIOUS LIVING IN EPSOM

BEAVERBROOK LAUNCH WINTER ICE-SKATING

The Woodcote is a stunning collection of 98 homes in the heart of leafy Epsom that have just come to market. Choose from penthouses, Grade II listed conversion apartments, deluxe homes with one, two or three bedrooms as well as freehold houses with beautiful gardens. These spaces are beautiful on the outside and beautiful on the inside too, with integrated appliances, state-of-the-art kitchens and elegant bathrooms, all hand picked and finished with style and expertise. See www. thewoodcote-epsom.co.uk for more details.

Add a touch of magic to your Winter break this year with ice-skating at Beaverbrook. Twirl your way around their enchanting rink whilst enjoying well-loved Xmas melodies. Guests can indulge in a glass of bubbles or snack on hot chocolate and sugary treats including donuts and candy floss from their stunning rinkside cabins. Ice-skating will be available from December 1st to January 31st to both hotel residents as well as guests visiting the estate for dining or spa days. See www.beaverbrook. co.uk for more details.

COMING TO A CITY NEAR YOU Rocks Mag, the parent company of Surrey Rocks, are pleased to announce there will be an additional 8 magazines launching in the UK next year. The Surrey Rocks effect has taken hold and London, Manchester, Brighton, Birmingham, Liverpool, Chester, Newcastle and Edinburgh Rocks Magazines will be launching in these happening cities. The format is the same as Surrey but with local news, reviews, features and events happening in each area. If you or anyone who know is keen on franchising and starting your own Rocks Mag get in touch today at info@rocksmag.com.

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

THE VICTORIA OXSHOTT

 01372 238308 |  enquiries@thevictoriaoxshott.com |  www.thevictoriaoxshott.com  The Victoria Oxshott, High Street, Oxshott, Surrey KT22 0JR |   thevictoriaoxshott

december 2021

MONDAY

FIND OUT WHAT’S ON EVERY MONTH WITH THE LATEST EVENTS IN AND AROUND THE SURREY

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre £35 Bottomless Brunch @ Niku Bar Brunch & Bubbly @ CuVée VIII Sunday Roast @ The Watermill Sunday Roast @ The Victoria Oxshott Sunday Roast @ The Grumpy Mole Sunday Roast @ The Garden House Sunday Cinema Club @ Beaverbrook

Wow Wednesdays @ Polished 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Singer @ The Victoria Oxshott £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Live Music @ Trend 1 £5 Lunch @ L’Ultimo Unlimited Raclette @ Rind 40% Off @ Red Bar Elton John Tribute @ CuVée VIII

Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Live Music @ Trend 1 DJ @ Pounding Heart DJ & Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Live Music @ Ditto DJ’s @ Hummings & Red Opulence DJ & Dine @ CuVée VIII DJ @ Red Bar & Café DJ @ Hummings Bar

Bottomless Brunch/DJ @ Niku Bar Bottomless Brunch @ Pounding Heart Brunch & Bubbly @ CuVée VIII Dapper & Suave Xmas Market @ Dorking Halls Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 DJ’s @ Hummings & Red Opulence @ CuVée VIII

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Chess & Bridge Night @ Ditto Thames Ditton Model Boot Camp @ LVMM

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre Tootsy Tuesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Wine Tuesdays @ Rind

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre Wow Wednesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Singer @ The Victoria Oxshott

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 Purdue Live Singers @ Pounding Heart £5 Lunch @ L’Ultimo Unlimited Raclette @ Rind 40% Off @ Red Bar & Café Barry White Tribute @ CuVée VIII

Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 DJ @ Pounding Heart DJ @ Niku Bar 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Live Music @ Ditto DJ’s @ Hummings & Red Bar Opulence DJ & Dine @ CuVée VIII DJ @ Red Bar & Café DJ @ Hummings Bar

Bottomless Brunch/DJ @ Niku Bar Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Dear Santa @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 Brunch & Bubbly @ CuVée VIII Great Gatsby Party @ Pounding Heart DJ’s @ Hummings & Red Opulence @ CuVée VIII

Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Chess & Bridge Night @ Ditto Thames Ditton Model Boot Camp @ LVMM

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Tootsy Tuesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Wine Tuesdays @ Rind

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Nutcracker @ Esher Theatre Wow Wednesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch @ L’Ultimo Aretha Franklin Tribute @ CuVée VIII Fondue Night @ Rind Singer @ The Victoria Oxshott

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Nutcracker @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 £5 Lunch @ L’Ultimo Unlimited Raclette @ Rind Donna Band Live @ CuVée VIII

Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Nutcracker @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 DJ @ Pounding Heart DJ @ Niku Bar DJ’s @ Hummings & Red 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Live Music @ Ditto Opulence DJ & Dine @ CuVée VIII DJ @ Red Bar & Café DJ @ Hummings Bar

Brunch Life Surrey @ CuVée VIII Bottomless Brunch/DJ @ Niku Bar Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Nutcracker @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 DJ @ Pounding Heart 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind DJ’s @ Hummings & Red Opulence @ CuVée VIII

£35 Bottomless Brunch @ Niku Bar Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole The Legends of Swing with Ray Lowe @ CuVée VIII Sunday Roast @ The Watermill Sunday Roast @ The Victoria Oxshott Sunday Roast @ The Grumpy Mole Sunday Roast @ The Garden House Sunday Cinema Club @ Beaverbrook

Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Chess & Bridge Night @ Ditto Thames Ditton Model Boot Camp @ LVMM

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Reginald D Hunter @ Esher Theatre Tootsy Tuesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Wine Tuesdays @ Rind

Kids ‘Elf’ Xmas Party @ Red Bar Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Elf Movie @ Esher Theatre Wow Wednesdays @ Polished Singer @ The Victoria Oxshott 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Luther Vandross Tribute @ CuVée VIII

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Sing That Swing @ Esher Theatre Live Music @ Trend 1 £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Unlimited Raclette @ Rind 40% Off Dinner @ Red

5 Course Dinner @ The Victoria Oxshott Live Music @ Trend 1 DJ @ Pounding Heart DJ @ Niku Bar £5 Lunch @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind DJ’s @ Hummings & Red Live Music @ Ditto Xmas Eve Party @ CuVée VIII

4 Course Menu @ The Victoria Oxshott £35 Bottomless Brunch @ Niku Bar Brunch & Bubbly @ CuVée VIII Sunday Roast @ The Watermill Sunday Roast @ The Grumpy Mole Sunday Roast @ The Garden House Sunday Cinema Club @ Beaverbrook

Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind Chess & Bridge Night @ Ditto Thames Ditton Model Boot Camp @ LVMM

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Tootsy Tuesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Wine Tuesdays @ Rind

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Menu @ Grumpy Mole Live Music @ Trend 1 £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo Unlimited Raclette @ Rind 40% Off Dinner @ Red 2-4-1 Happy Hour @ Rind

NYE Party 8pm - 4am @ Niku Bar NYE Dinner & Dance @ Pounding Heart NYE Party @ L’Ultimo & Trend 1 NYE Party @ Esher Theatre Big Band Night £30 Entry @ Ditto Thames Ditton 4 Courses & Bubbly £49 @ Rind 7 Course Dinner £125 @ The Victoria Oxshott

Xmas Lunch @ L’Ultimo (call to book) Xmas Lunch @ The Grumpy Mole Epsom Xmas Lunch @ The Grumpy Mole Tadworth Xmas Lunch @ The Grumpy Mole Cheam Xmas Lunch @ The Grumpy Mole Oxted Xmas Lunch @ The Grumpy Mole Brockham Festive Pan-Asian Set Menu @ Fetcham Tandoori

Happy Hour @ Niku Bar 2 for £12 Cocktails & 25% off Food @ Pounding Heart Festive Set Menu @ The Grumpy Mole Wow Wednesdays @ Polished £5 Lunch Deal @ L’Ultimo 2-4-1 Cocktails @ Rind Singer @ The Victoria Oxshott

£35 Bottomless Brunch @ Niku Bar Brunch & Bubbly @ CuVée VIII Sunday Roast @ The Watermill Sunday Roast @ The Victoria Oxshott Sunday Roast @ The Grumpy Mole Sunday Roast @ The Garden House Sunday Cinema Club @ Beaverbrook

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

celebrities

everyone’s talking about...

BRITNEY IS FINALLY FREE!!!! The words “Free Britney” have been hanging off the lips of Britney Spears fans for over a decade now. And finally on November 12th – those words were made true as the conservatorship that has been hanging over the troubled singer was finally lifted by the LA Courts. Her father, 69-year-old Jamie Spears, no longer controls her assets, her fortune, her medication and ultimately her decision making. An embittered and freshly freed Britney, aged 39, said her family and those involved in the conservatorship “should all be in jail“ following the ruling. “Honestly, it still blows my mind every day I wake up how my family and the conservatorship were able to do what they did to me,” she wrote on Instagram, “It was demoralising and degrading!” The legal decision-making process has been long and drawn out and Britney had to testify in order to get the 13-year conservatorship lifted. For many years it was not even negated in court. Britney’s troubles all began back in 2007 when she split from her ex Kevin Federline and famously shaved off her hair, attacked a paparazzi, admitted to excessive drinking and

had a very public meltdown; being taken to hospital one night from her LA home in full view of the awaiting 150-strong paparazzi and news crews. However, less than a year later the ‘Toxic’ singer got her life back on track, stopped drinking and socialising and seemed perfectly normal releasing her fourth album ‘Circus’ to worldwide critical acclaim. Despite this, behind the scenes, a plethora of her father’s legal team were plotting to enter her into a draconian conservatorship whereby she would no longer legally have control over her life because of her “meltdown” a year prior to this and “deeming her not fit to make decisions.” This was made legal in the State of California in 2008 under the aforementioned conservatorship laws and Britney lost control of her life and fortune. The $60 million plus fortune she had amassed since her 2002 career took off was taken out of her control instantly and according to reports hefty pay checks were given to those “caring for her” or part of Jamie Spears team. Since the legal battle was conceded on the 12th November, Britney is said to be taking charge of her life and has already started making plans to re-enter the world of film and music.

CELEBS HIGHLIGHT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE A host of celebrities including Annie Lennox, Donna Air and Sadie Frost are backing a one-off play highlighting domestic abuse. The play called ‘Punched’ showcases powerful stories of survivors from around the globe. Actress Sadie said: “It is crucial to raise awareness regarding the rising levels of domestic abuse.” The show features actresses including former ‘EastEnders’ star Tracy-Ann Oberman and ex-‘Casualty’ actor Priyanga Burford. Eurythmics star Annie said one in three women face physical or sexual violence in their lifetime according to World Health Organisation figures and it has got to stop. The opening night is on December 6th at The Criterion Theatre in London.

14 SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

NEWS JESSIE J MISCARRIAGE HEARTACHE Brit singer Jessie J has tragically revealed she lost the baby she was carrying in her second trimester. The 33-year-old singer - who publicly announced

she would be caring for the child alone, after separating from her partner dancer Max Pham less than a month ago – has now had

JAMIE REDKNAPP ANNOUNCES BIRTH OF SON Ex-footballer Jamie Redknapp and his wife Frida have just announced the birth of their first child together, a son called Raphael. The couple, who got together in 2019, following Redknapp’s high profile split from Louise Redknapp - his partner of 20 years - announced the news they were expecting in June and a month ago took part in an unceremonious Shotgun wedding in London. The child is the third for Jamie and the fifth for Frida. Jamie has sons Charley (17) and Beau (12) with Louise and Swedish model Frida, aged 37, has 4 kids from her ex-husband, a rich hedge fund manager. The Redknapp’s are said to be delighted and can’t wait to introduce Raphael to his six teenage siblings.

to share the news that during her third pivotal scan.... the doctors could no longer find a heartbeat. The devastated singer took to social media to tell fans in an emotional p o s t : “ Ye s t e r d a y morning I was laughing with a friend saying ‘seriously though how am I going to get through my gig in LA tomorrow night without telling the whole audience I am pregnant.’ By yesterday afternoon I was dreading the thought of getting through the gig without breaking

down… After going for my 3rd scan and being told there was no longer a heartbeat - I feel like I have no control of my emotions. I may regret posting this. I may not. I actually don’t know. What I do know is that I want to sing tonight. Not because I’m avoiding the grief or the process, but because I know singing tonight will help me.” The brave singer took to the stage and did her gig. She also posted a quote from an Australian poet to sum up her feelings on her miscarriage, “Sometimes love won’t be enough to make it work, and that’s ok. It doesn’t mean that you’ve failed.” It was the first time the singer had fallen pregnant and she has said publicly she had always hoped to be a mother.

JESY NELSON CONFIRMS NEW ROMANCE Ex Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson has confirmed her new romance with ‘Waterloo Road’ and ‘Emily in Paris’ star Lucien Laviscourt, after they were pictured kissing on a night out in London. Jesy, aged 30, and Lucien, 29, were snapped kissing on a rickshaw ride through the capital on Saturday 27th November. The new romance is a welcome sidetrack for Jesy who was embroiled in a ‘blackfishing’ scandal with her exbandmates only last month on releasing her new solo single ‘Boyz’. She was previously romantically linked to ‘Love Island’ star Chris Hughes.

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

BELUGA SUSHI B

“Bringing Decadence

Enjoy great food, spectacular cocktails, amazing ambien The team that brought you Del Fuoco Italian have diversified following years of dining in Mayfair Beluga will wow Surrey residents with their sublime Japanese an

OPENIN 16 SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

 www.beluga.bar  beluga.surrey 

BAR & LOUNGE

to Surrey Nightlife”

nce, world-class DJ’s and unparalleled service at Beluga. r Restaurants with a cool party vibe - they are bringing their own slice of London to Leatherhead. nd Sushi-inspired menu, chefs, entertainment and mixologists.

NG SOON 1-3 High Street, Leatherhead, KT22 8AA

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

NEWS

FOR HIM

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS For the budding photographer that wants to capture the most amazing aerial shots and video footage. This nifty new gadget will enable you to get superb video or photos from 4,000 meters in the air! The new Mini 2 Drone features 4 x zoom, panoramic views and an app to quickly save and transfer footage, among many other cool design features. Available on Amazon from £229.

18 SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

WHAT'S TRENDING...

TECH & GADGET NEWS

BE A MASTER MIXOLOGIST Always messing up your athome cocktails then this nifty number from Drinkworks by Keurig allows you to simply put in a cocktail pod and make cocktails in under a minute by just the touch of a button. With 30 plus different cocktail variations to choose from you can wow guests with your cocktail making expertise! The Drinksworks Home Bar has an onboard chilling and carbonation device to make chilled, bubbly cocktails for you and your friends. Buy from £399 at Master of Malt.

NEWS FASHION SPEAK 43 LANGUAGES This is the ideal device for holidaymakers or frequent business travellers who encounter language barriers. Thanks to Poliglu these difficulties will soon be a thing of the past! With just a few button clicks, you can handily translate what you want to say into over 43 languages in real-time. This is the ultimate ‘cheats’ gadget for anyone that wants to get by without actually having to learn the lingo. If you are at school or university this is not to be taken into exams! Available from £79 from the Poliglu website.

SMART SCALES The brand new KoreScale is the ultimate smart scale, with patented Bioelectric Impedance Analysis (BIA) technology so when you step on the scale, 4 precision sensors scan and analyse your entire body, and break it down into 14 key health metrics. In addition to your weight, you can see your BMI, body fat, muscle mass, water weight and much more. With these insights, KoreScale takes the guesswork out of fitness. You can see exactly how your body responds to diet and exercise in real time. Prices start from £64 on Amazon.

CHRISTMAS PARTYWEAR

We’ve scoured the best men’s fashion on the web to bring you the coolest, chicest partywear on the market. Dare to be different in coloured trouser suits in either dusky pink or navy with gold foil print or embrace the monochrome trend and get your Christmas partywear shirt from New Look or All Saints. Have a good one!

DARE TO BE DIFFERENT SUITS SKINTED

MINTED

MONOCHROME SHIRTS SKINTED

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

£99, ALL SAINTS

MINTED £25, NEW LOOK

Luc Clothing have just dropped their new collection of loungewear which we got a sneak peak of to share with you. Consisting of brightly coloured hoodies, sweatshirts, T-shirts and tracksuits this uber cool brand from You Tube sensations, Woody and Kleiny, has become a smash hit since its launch in 2018 with celeb fans including footballer Mario Balotelli and TV personalities Chris Hughes and Alex Murphy. The brand which stands for #letuscreate was the brainchild of best friends Paul Klein and Paul Wood who shot to fame on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ in 2009 and have now amassed over 25 million social media followers with their hilarious videos. You can see their full collection at www.lucclothing.com and catch the boys creating TV gold behind the scenes during ‘I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!’ LUC is offering Surrey Rocks readers 15% off their online store at www.lucclothing.com - just type in ROCKS15 at the checkout to claim your discount.

£150, TWISTED TAILOR

£28, ASOS

LUC DROP NEW RANGE IN TIME FOR XMAS

VS SKINTED MINTED

NEWS

FOR HER

WHAT'S TRENDING...

WINTERBRIGHT

It’s been banded around in the fashion industry for some time now that ‘Dopamine Dressing’ (ie. wearing bright clothing) can actually alter our moods and lift our spirits. Famed colour psychologist Karen Haller states that wearing bright colours can cause “physiological changes within us and boost our moods.” With that said, now we are in December and the party season is upon us, do you want to pass on the feel-good vibes and wow in colour. Apparently purple is the colour de jeur with sales up 16% according to fashion bible, WGSN. “Winter brights will inject a much-needed sense of energy and optimism,” WGSN’s Collection Review says, continuing to explain that a surprising hue, purple, is in fact “one of the fastestgrowing colours, increasing its small share +16% YoY.” Going forward the trend forecasting company foresees “uplifting juxtapositions between core colours and energetic brights,” which is a very translatable tactic for our own wardrobes. Another runway

20 SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

This red dress by AQ/AQ is a steal at only £91 (reduced from £150) and the cut is extremely flattering on any shape or size. Alternatively splash out on this Yaura one-shoulder maxi dress from ASOS for £150 and be the belle of the ball.

SKINTED

MINTED

£150, YAURA

Hannah Martin Flowers are presenting these beautiful and fun Rainbow Wreaths and Mini Xmas Trees – perfect gifts ‘For Her’ this season. The wreath, priced at £50, contains dried flowers, leaves and other festive ingredients creating an everlasting work of art for your wall or door. It is presented in a large pink box alongside a trio of deliciously scented wax melts from Smellysaurus, a rainbow candy cane and a pouch of rainbow chocolate coins. Hannah Martin is donating 5% from every one of their Christmas Rainbow Boxes sold during the month of December to the Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity. Alternatively, their Mini Rainbow Tree Kit, priced at £30, contains a miniature tree along with everything needed to make it sparkle, including colourful mini baubles, gold star tinsel and even a mini bobble hat. To purchase see www.hannahmartin.net

RED PARTY DRESSES

LITTLE BLACK DRESS

You can’t go wrong with the LBD or skirt at Xmas. Fringe benefits are big news this A/W21 so invest in a good make like the ones below as you don’t want to be looking like a plucked bird this Christmas!

SKINTED

MINTED

WONDERLUST, £180

XMAS FLORALS

VS SKINTED MINTED

£91, AQ/AQ

staple this Autumn/Winter 2021 was red and green – both great for the Christmas Party season as the colours are both so festive. Copy Rita Ora’s look with this red satin dress from Pretty Little Thing or opt for a similar conifer green dress by Wolf & Badger; for £30 and £184 respectively. Surrey Rocks fashion ed has also found this gorgeous Silk Fred purple midi wrap style dress with plunging hemline which is perfect for the party season – and a snip at only £49. Happy party season! We hope you wow in your Winter Brights – see our What’s On and Calendar pages to find out about the best in Surrey events this December.

ASOS, £120

NEWS FASHION

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Discover OUR STORY ✳

The British love affair with Indian cuisine is a tale that spans more than 200 years – from the opening of the very first curry house in 1809, to its rise in the 21st Century as Britain’s national dish.

Welcome

Fetcham Tandoori is an award winning, authentic Asian Cuisine restaurant, based in Fetcham, Leatherhead but serving customers across Surrey and London. Enjoy a meal with us for any occasion in our intimate dining room - or if you fancy a takeaway please contact us.  248 Cobham Road, Fetcham, Leatherhead Surrey, KT22 9JF  01372 374 927  info@fetchamtandoori.co.uk  www.fetchamtandoori.co.uk

NEWS

RECIPE HERB CRUSTED RACK OF LAMB This Jamie Oliver dish looks mightily impressive when served at a dinner party as Oliver himself enthuses: “Lamb like this is a total treat – it looks dramatic, and gives you tender blushing meat, with an irresistible feisty crumb. It’s also easy to scale up or down for two, six or eight, just tweak the timings instinctively.” A great winter recipe and delicious served with a red wine jus, dauphinoise potatoes and seasonal vegetables if time is on your side.

INGREDIENTS

(Serves 4) • 2 x French-trimmed 7-bone racks of lamb , (caps, fat and sinews removed) • olive oil • unsalted butter • 3 cloves of garlic • 100 g shelled pistachios • 1 bunch of fresh flat-leaf parsley (30g) • 75 g bread • 1 whole nutmeg , for grating • Dijon mustard • Green Beans • 350 g fine green beans • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar • extra virgin olive oil • ½ a lemon • 3 sprigs of fresh tarragon

METHOD

1. Get your meat out of the fridge and up to room temperature before you cook it. Preheat the oven to 180ºC/350ºF/gas 4. 2. Drizzle the lamb racks with olive oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt and black pepper, patting the seasoning all over the meat. 3. Sear in a hot frying pan on a high heat with a little extra oil and 1 knob of butter for 2 to 3 minutes, turning with tongs until

golden all over, then remove the racks to a roasting tray and let them cool. 4. Peel 2 cloves of garlic and place in a food processor with the pistachios and parsley (stalks and all). Tear in the bread, finely grate in half the nutmeg and blitz into a fine green crumb. 5. Generously brush each lamb rack with mustard, then cover with the herby crumb, patting it all over the top and sides. 6. Roast for 25 minutes, until the crust is crisp, to give you beautifully blushing lamb. Remove from the oven and leave the lamb to rest for 10 minutes. 7. Meanwhile, trim just the stalk ends off the green beans and cook for 6 to 7 minutes in a pan of boiling salted water. 8. Crush the remaining unpeeled clove of garlic through a garlic crusher into a jar and mix with 1 teaspoon of mustard, the vinegar, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and the lemon juice, then taste and season to perfection. 9. Finely chop and add the tarragon leaves. Drain the beans and toss with the dressing. Carve up the lamb and serve with the dressed green beans and Dauphinoise Potatoes or mash if time is tight.

WINE MATCH Lamb is one of the most wine friendly meats, as perfect with a red Bordeaux and Rioja as it is with the fruitier wines of the new world. But if you’re looking for a perfect wine pairing it’s worth thinking just how - and for how long - you’re going to cook it. With lamb roasted and served pink, like in this Jamie Oliver rack of lamb recipe, a Pinot Noir or Cru Beaujolais would work well. Alternatively if you want to steer clear of reds a dry rosé, especially vintage rosé Champagne, is also particularly good.

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NEWS MOVIE REVIEW

ALBUM REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

MATRIX RESURRECTIONS

STING – THE BRIDGE

The long-awaited fourth installment of the sci-fi classic ‘Matrix’ is back. The cast largely remains the same with Keanu Reeves donning his iconic long leather coat to play Neo and Carrie Anne Moss as his love interest Trinity. The film is 20 years after the last one – has it been that long? Am I that old... we hear you say?! Laurence Fishbourne is the only member not to return – as his character has stepped back in time to the origins of the Matrix and is now played by ‘Aquaman’ star Yahya AbdulMateen II. Jada Pinkett Smith, Lambert Wilson and Daniel Bernhardt all reprise their previous roles. The film begins with Neo living an ordinary life as his alter ego; Thomas A. Anderson in San Francisco. He appears not to remember his past until Morpheus gives him a red pill that awakens his mind to the world of the Matrix. The relationship between Neo and Trinity will take centre stage again with Reeves describing the plot as a “beautiful script that is a love story. It’s another version of a kind of call to wake up and it has some great action!” Other details of the film’s storyline has been deliberately kept quiet so as not to have any spoilers pre-launch. The film is written by and directed by the talented Lana Wachowski who has huge sci-fi accolades including ‘V for Vendetta’, ‘Cloud Atlas’ and of course all the previous ‘Matrix’ films under her belt. If you love science fiction or any of the other 3 ‘Matrix’ outings – this is a go to film this December. Release date is scheduled for December 22nd.

Sting released his 15th studio album entitled ‘The Bridge’ on November 19th. He wrote the album "in a year of global pandemic, personal loss, separation, disruption, lockdown and extraordinary social and political turmoil” he claimed. The album is amazing, well thought out tracks, lyrics and the usual Sting style of melodic yet substance singing. On 1 September "If It's Love" was released as the first single from the album to critical acclaim. The upbeat and infectious pop tune exhibits his undeniable gift for melody. In his signature voice - and taking a different approach to a normal love song - Sting likens his ‘romantic feelings’ to calling the doctor about his ‘symptoms’ of being in love as it were an illness. It is isn’t it?! "I’m certainly not the first songwriter to equate falling in or out of love with an incurable sickness, nor will I be the last, ’If It’s Love’ is my addition to that canon where the tropes of metaphorical symptoms, diagnosis and downright incapacity are all familiar enough to make each of us smile ruefully," he said. Representing various styles from throughout his career and drawing inspiration from genres including rock n’ roll, jazz, classical music and folk, the album features Sting’s quintessential sound on pop-rock tracks such as the album’s opening rock hit “Rushing Water” and indie-pop sounding “If It’s Love,” to the electronic ballad “Loving You” – the tracks are top notch. 17-time award winning Grammy artist Sting is back. Back with a bang and a belter of an album!

THE INSIDER – MATTHEW RICHARDSON A thrilling novel of espionage and murder set in the heart of London, from the critically acclaimed UK spy writer, Matthew Richardson. The plot surrounds a Russian defector who is found brutally murdered in a London hotel. Only four people knew he had turned into a spy - the four most important and powerful figures in Whitehall. There's only one conclusion; a mole has infiltrated the highest levels of Britain’s M16 security. Operating in secret from within Westminster's darkest corners, another former spy - the novel’s hero - Solomon Vine, must uncover the traitor. Britain's future hangs in the balance. The cat and mouse chase that ensues is hardly Tom & Jerry – murder and cover-ups are at every page turn practically! Vine must locate and “out” the traitor before he manages to destroy and expose M16 – leaving the country with the threat of destruction. Critics have raved about this book with The Guardian, calling it, “Proof that the spy genre is flourishing in the 21st Century. Richardson’s plotting has an old school, Swiss-clock precision that keeps the reader pleasurably engaged.” The Times went as far to say that, “A splendid tale... exciting spy literature.” With Matthew Richardson getting this sort of praise and his first novel in 2018 ‘My Name is Nobody’ propelling him to the top of the best seller list, this second novel produced at aged 27 means there will be a lot more greats to come from this Durhameducated student newspaper writer. Bond or Vine?!!

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 @sfphotos_uk

Meet, eat, drink & relax in our new restaurant. With an innovative menu highlighting the very best of fresh, locally sourced food and award-winning wines, together with quality coffee, tea, afternoon tea and bottomless brunches! Special themed evenings and private hire. You can also book a unique evening dining experience in our Outdoor Pods.  01252 781423 |  www.palm-house.co.uk |  hello@palm-house.co.uk  @palmhouserestaurant |  The Palm House | @palmhouserestaurant

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Lose yourself amongst beautiful things… The Packhouse is a unique lifestyle store just outside of Farnham. Set over multiple floors in a beautiful 400 year old ex-hop kiln, vintage, antique and new interior and garden pieces to make a beautiful home  01252 781010

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NEWS

GUM

ne of the world´s longest-running and high profile supercar races, Gumball attracts serious car afficionados and equally serious spenders. It costs £45,000 just to take part in the race. Famed as much for its fast cars as its wild parties held during each leg of the race – read this exciting, entertaining, no-holds barred account of the craziest race on the planet – and get your credit card ready to book your trip next year as the Toronto to Havana 2022 trip has just been announced and is happening on 27th May to 3rd June 2022.

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Read this account of the craziest week of these young drivers lives – when they completed Sweden to Vegas in under a week for Gumball 3000! Well done Chris Murphy and Sam Moores for surviving!!

SWEET SWEDEN The race kicked off in Sweden´s capital Stockholm. Plenty of partying was had before we hit the starting

MBALL 3000 grid as registration starts the day before and the party atmosphere kicks in a few days before. And Stockholm is the place to party! The Swedes are great and so welcoming. Beautiful hot women, you can walk into any club and are surrounded by “11/10 girls”. A lot of Gumballers reported threesomes and even foursomes, but we were on our best behaviour! The starting grid was chaotic with over 100 cars participating, we held back in our Porsche 918 to get the best pictures from the event. Once underway the drive to our next stopover point, Oslo, was fairly relaxed, cruising along through scenic countryside alongside vintage classics and hybrid

hypercars such as LaFerrari, the Porsche 918 Spyder, Pagani Huayra and McLaren P1´s. We passed quite a few cars that had obviously been pulled over by police. One of our friends was even being escorted in the opposite direction presumably for a blood test. They do this when they get a questionable breathaliser reading. Therefore readers, here are my 3 golden Gumball rules to remember: 1. Leave early with limited alcohol in your system 2. Navigation is key – don´t get lost 3. Don´t get caught by the police!!

SIGHT SEEING AT KOENIGSEGG Gumball Rallyers were also treated to a tour around the Koenigsegg Factory in Copenhagen where we got to see a €1.5m one: 1 CCXR in production. 13,000 kilos to 13,000 break horse power, carbon fibre wheels that our guide threw at us and they were as light as a feather. An amazing car. We also got to drag race around the test circuit with other Gumballers reaching speeds of 190mph.

ZE GERMANS Which leads me nicely onto our German connection. On arrival at our next destination point we were all provided with letters in our hotel that said all sponsors logos had to be covered up by tape on our route through Germany. (????) We left early to avoid any problems and despite us following

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

NEWS

the regulations we were repeatedly stopped to have our documents checked all the way through Germany. The most frustrating moment was when this driver appeared to be veering in and out of lanes and undercutting us, acting really strange. Thinking it was just a follower trying to get a good photo of our car we dutifully played around until it got on our nerves so much so we undercut it and sped off. Much to our annoyance the car happened to be undercover police and we were pulled over yet again. The police were shocked to find out we filmed the whole thing and were quick to let us go without so much as a warning!! German Police: 0 Moores & Murphy: 1.

AMSTERDAM The Dam didn´t disappoint. A huge festival was put on at the Ajax Stadium where we were supposed to drive our cars in front of the 30,000 strong crowd. Dutch DJ Afrojack also put on an impressive gig. This was another night of classic partying where we bumped

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into a fellow racer who had a Facebook sponsor sticker on his car. But strangely with the words “Thank you¨ emblazoned above it. As he was holding his magnum of champagne we questioned his gratitude of the social media site. To which he promptly replied: “I´m one of the initial

founders and Facebook earnt me $700 million.” Ahhhh, ok, get it now.

MILE-HIGH MADNESS There is only one word to describe the antics of 200 Gumballers on a transatlantic flight to Reno… madness. Within 15 minutes of the plane taking off Dirty Sanchez entertainer Pritchard stripped off and was parading around the plane fully naked. We´re convinced his drink was spiked soon after as he passed out very quickly! We were allowed in the cockpit and one crafty Gumballer even duck-taped his iPhone to the pilot´s tanoy so we had load music throughout the duration of the flight. Other recollections from the flight include a skateboard whizzing past on descent. Not exactly health and safety but this was a private flight not a passenger one, so rules went out the window.

LA BOUND Midwest Gumball trips are pretty dull….600 mile long stretches with nothing but a petrol station, a lapdance club and a place to buy fried chicken! Thankfully this year we hit the West Coast

again (!) landing in Reno then hitting San Francisco before arriving in LA. The US leg of the journey was even more exciting this year as we got to race with F1 Champion Lewis Hamilton. Plus other regular US participants included rapper Eve (who married Gumball founder Maximillion Cooper on last year´s race), Baywatch star David Hasselhoff and boxer Mike Tyson. Reports from local newspapers suggested that Gumballers were driving in and out of LA highway traffic of up to speeds of 170mph. We know nothing about this!!!

VEGAS BABY! The final leg of the trip to Vegas was an exhausting one. Not only because you have been non-stop travelling and partying for 7 days but also because you have officially covered 3000 miles of driving. A mean feat in itself. Once in Vegas Gumball put on a finale 2-day festival at MGM Village including a vert ramp skateboard demo from ‘Tony Hawk & friends’ followed by performances from DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill, Bun B, The Alchemist, EVE, Deadmau5 and Diplo. Having just completed my fourth, but certainly not final, Gumball – I can safely say i´ll be signing up again.

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Following months of careful renovation, The Watermill in Dorking The venue has operated as a pub since the 1960s, but it’s been totally transformed, bringing a refres With extensive views over Box Hill, guests can dine in the newly landscaped gardens, featuring cosy log burner and innovation that celebrate provenance and showcases the best of British farms. The pub’s Christmas me and a delicious gingerbread trifle to get you ready for the festive season. The Watermill will offer an extensive se including a staple French Martini to an exquisite Espre 34  www.thewatermill-dorking.co.uk SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

 info@thewatermill-dorking.co.uk

has announced that it is set to open on Tuesday 30th November. shed look, as well as a completely new food offering, celebrating the very best of British produce. rs, covered seating and a fully-stocked bar. The menu features an array of classic pub dishes, fusing tradition enu will also be available when the pub opens, and features festive delights including a vegan wellington election of drinks, designed with every guest in mind from crafted cocktails to a collection of classic martinis, esso Martini, plus an array of non-alcoholic drinks.

 the_watermill_dorking

35  Reigate Rd, Dorking, RH4 1NN, United Kingdom SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

FEATURES

SHAKIRA

he multi-award winning artist is embarking on her biggest feat to date – not a Grammy, not a hit single for the World Cup but Environmental Change for the future of our planet. Shakira: wife, mother and international bestselling singer, is using her platform for good use. Instead of releasing another pop ballad – the 44-year-old is sitting on the panel of Prince William’s Earthshot Prize. Every year for the next 10 years five £1million Earthshot prizes are awarded; providing at least 50 evidence based solutions to the planet’s greatest environmental problems by 2030. Shakira has a huge platform too. She has amassed over 18 million You Tube hits and 250 million social media followers and is considered one of the world’s best known solo singers. She has said she is not going to produce music “for a while” as other issues close to her heart are taking up all her time. Talking about Prince William and Earthshot she said: “Seeing Prince William’s passion and how genuinely determined he is to provoke change is very, very inspiring, It's just incredible to see how committed he is, and all the people at Earthshot are, to make change happen in the world in such a short amount of time. “And it's not impossible. It requires many of us, plenty of commitment and determination, and we need to raise awareness towards that. I feel that I can do that while talking to every journalist I can. Every time I'm in front of a camera, I can talk about that… We are citizens

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of humanity. We need to really provoke fast change in order to preserve our home.” To mark the launch of the Earthshot, Shakira and Prince William released a video of a Zoom call between them, in which they discussed their shared passion for saving the planet, how to bring about change and in particular, Shakira’s passion for cleaning up oceans. “Prince William is one of the people who is really aware of how imminent and how necessary it is that we all work together. He's called me on the phone just to discuss this and try to get me committed to do more.” The singer has also started her own foundation for children’s education and welfare in her native Columbia. Calling it ‘Barefoot Foundation’ she campaigns for the right for every child to have access to education. The project aims to help 54,000 children over 3 years to succeed academically with school and education for those that need it most. Raised in Baranquilla, a district of North Columbia, Shakira wrote her first song at the age of 8 and was signed to her first record label at just 13. Shakira has also managed to scoop 2 Grammy Awards, 7 Latin Grammy Awards, 5 MTV Music Awards and 7 Billboard Music Awards. Not bad for a girl from the deepest darkest depths of South

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FEATURES

America. Throughout her career Shakira has not only been a singer, but also a songwriter, record producer, choreographer and model. Her allround personality means that she has not only written the majority of her songs but also created the dances in many of her music videos, including the video for the hit single ‘Waka Waka’ which had over 933 million views and became the 9th most watched video on You Tube ever. Although Shakira’s first two studio albums were not hits, her third album Pies Descalzos immediately gave her prominence in the Latin American market. With the success of other albums, such as Dónde Están los Ladrones, she became a superstar in the Spanish-language market, known for her strong vocals and incredible hip-shaking and those killer belly dance moves. In 1997 Shakira made the decision to move herself and her family to Miami where she began to learn English. In 2001 her debut English language album Laundry Service reached no.3 on the charts, selling more than 200,000 copies in the first week of release. Her album was full of major hits such as ‘Wherever, Whenever’ which became

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her breakthrough hit in the US, and after selling 10 million copies worldwide, it became the biggest hit of 2001. Shakira soon became the highest selling Columbian artist of all time, and her records such as ‘Hips Don’t Lie’ began to top the charts gaining her several number ones. She also began collaborating with massive US artists such as Beyoncé Knowles. Their song ‘Beautiful Liar’ was released in 2007 and quickly became number one in several European countries including France, Germany, Italy and the UK. By 2012 her US album sales alone had reached over 10 million. Shakira had created a worldwide phenomenon, which combined Latino, Arabic and hip-hop music together and reached out to such a variety of people that she was adored worldwide. Her multitude of talents was broadened again when she was confirmed a Star Judge on popular NBC show ‘The Voice’, the fourth series aired in March 2013, just months after Shakira had given birth to her first child, Milan. Her personality and likeability definitely won over the hearts of the nation and she rapidly returned for the sixth series after taking a year off to spend time with her son and husband, professional Spanish football player

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FEATURES Gerard Pique, who recently celebrated playing 100 Caps for Spain during the FIFA 2018 Russia World Cup. Although it hasn’t been all fun and games in Shakira’s personal life. Shakira previously dated Antonio de la Rua, son of former Argentine President Fernando de la Rua. In 2013, de la Rua made headlines when he sued the Latin songstress for $100 million, charging that he had helped create some of his ex’s hit songs as well as the “Shakira brand.” Fortunately for the singer the superior court dismissed the lawsuit and she was not made to give La Rua any part of her income. Even with their net worth of 220 million dollars Shakira doesn’t let her WAG status or fame get to her head. In 2010 the United Nations Labour Organisation honoured her for her philanthropic efforts and she became a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF. Her charity work was also emphasised when she threw her world baby showers in the upcoming weeks to her second son´s births. Shakira organised and ran the event asking for gifts to be donated to babies that were in need all over the world. She claimed that “she hopes her charity efforts will make her sons proud.” Their first Virtual Baby Shower was a huge success; over 80,000 children were vaccinated against polio, nearly four tons of therapeutic food helped children suffering from malnutrition, plus around 1,000 anti-malaria bed nets and nearly 200,000 oral rehydration salts sachets were distributed.   It is clear that Shakira is no longer just a singer, her talents vary so far and wide that she has become an exciting role model for younger generations. Environmental issues are her passion and she is excelling in getting her message out there.

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New Italian Deli & Wine Bar  01372 372771

 TREND1

 31 Leatherhead High Street

FEATURES

WINNERS OF EAR T

he Earthshot Prize revealed the first-ever five Prize Winners of the most prestigious environment awards in history at a glittering ceremony held at London’s Alexandra Palace. Each of these five Winners will receive £1 million prize money and a global network of professional and technical support to scale their ‘remarkable environmental solutions to repair our planet and accelerate their impact’.

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The five Winners include cutting-edge technologists, innovators, an entire country, and a pioneering city. The five Winners were selected by The Earthshot Prize Council and were chosen for their ground-breaking solutions to the greatest environmental challenges facing our planet and their ability to scale their impact globally in response to the urgent challenges we face.

RTHSHOT 2021

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FEATURES PROTECT & RESTORE NATURE – Republic of Costa Rica Forests are home to half our plants and animals and three quarters of our birds. They suck carbon from the air and return the oxygen we breathe. Yet in 2020 more trees were felled than ever before, causing 10% of global warming. In the 1990s, the vast forests of Costa Rica were devastated, half their former size. But the people of Costa Rica and their Ministry for Environment had a plan to save them. Its programmes paid citizens to protect forests, plant trees, and restore ecosystems. The results were extraordinary. Costa Rica’s forests doubled in size. Flora and fauna thrived which led to a boom in ecotourism, contributing $4 billion to the economy. The government is now taking the approach to urban areas. It believes 30% of the world’s land and oceans could be protected this way too. Winning The Earthshot Prize is helping to share knowledge and practices globally, especially in the Global South. Costa Rica’s motto is “pura vida” or “pure life”. Those words could soon echo across the world.

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CLEAN OUR AIR – India, Takachur Globally, we generate $120 billion of agricultural waste every year. What farmers cannot sell, they often burn, with catastrophic consequences for human health and the environment. The burning of agricultural waste causes air pollution that in some areas has reduced life expectancy by a decade. This plays out every year in the fields surrounding New Delhi. Smoke from man-made infernos fills the air, with serious consequences for the health of locals. One of their number is Vidyut Mohan. His social enterprise, Takachar, is putting out the fire. Takachar has developed a cheap, small-scale, portable technology that attaches to tractors in remote farms. The machine converts crop residues into sellable bio-products like fuel and fertilizer. Takachar’s technology reduces smoke emissions by up to 98% which will help improve the air quality that currently reduces the affected population’s life expectancy by up to 5 years. If scaled, it could cut a billion tonnes of carbon dioxide a year: a win for India’s farmers will be a win in the fight against climate change.

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FEATURES

REVIVE OUR OCEANS – Bahamas, Coral Vita Ocean warming and acidification are set to destroy over 90% of reefs by 2050, a death sentence for the quarter of marine life who need them to survive. It will be a disaster, too, for the billion human lives dependent on the benefits reefs provide. A year after Sam Teicher and Gator Halpern launched Coral Vita’s first facility in Grand Bahama, Hurricane Dorian destroyed their coral farm. The experience brought home the extent of the climate emergency and strengthened their resolve to protect our reefs. Coral Vita, which grows coral on land to replant in oceans, gives new life to dying ecosystems. Its methods grow coral up to 50 times faster than traditional methods and improves resilience to the impact of climate change. As well as restoring reefs, Teicher and Halpern work with local communities, public officials, and private companies to improve education, create new job prospects, and build a model to inject more funding into environmental protection. Coral Vita gives new life not just to the ocean but to coastal economies as well. With Coral Vita’s methods, a single farm could potentially supply coral for an entire nation, and they ultimately envision a network of such farms in every nation with reefs, kickstarting a restoration economy to preserve the ecosystems that sustain us all. Winning the prize will help them make that vision a reality.

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BUILD A FREE WASTE WORLD – The City of Milan Food Waste Hubs A third of all food produced globally is wasted. Each discarded food item uses precious resources and heaps pressure on agriculture. The global food system generates between 25-30% of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, hundreds of millions suffer from food insecurity. The City of Milan’s Food Waste Hubs tackle two problems in one. Launched in 2019 with the aim of halving waste by 2030, each hub recovers food mainly from supermarkets and companies’ canteens and gives it to NGOs who distribute it to the neediest citizens. Milan is the first major city to enforce a city-wide food waste policy encompassing public agencies, food banks, charities, NGOs, universities and private businesses. And it is working. Today the city has three Food Waste Hubs, each recovering about 130 tonnes of food per year or 350 kg per day, an estimated 260,000 meals equivalent. Milan has created a blueprint that can be scaled throughout the world. If more follow Milan’s lead, cities may become one of our greatest assets in humanity’s progress toward a waste free world.

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FEATURES

FIX OUR CLIMATE – AEM Electrolyser Born in a climate-change affected South Pacific Island, Vaitea Cowan co-founded Enapter to turn back the tide. Just three years on, its green hydrogen technology could change the way we power our world. We have made huge advances in renewable energy. But we can still go further. With 30% of our energy already renewable, we need to focus on the 70% that remains: non-renewable energy that powers everything from industry to transport. Enapter provides a clean alternative. Its AEM Electrolyser technology turns renewable electricity into emission-free hydrogen gas. Developed quicker and cheaper than once thought possible, the technology already fuels cars and planes, powers industry and heats homes. This is just the start. Funding from winning The Earthshot Prize would help scale mass production, which is planned to begin in 2022, while growing the team faster and funding further research and development. By 2050, Enapter’s vision is to account for 10% of the world’s hydrogen generation. Enapter shows us that, when faced with the greatest of challenges, we can turn back the tide.

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DANCE DIRECTION PRESENTS AN INTERPRETATION OF

The

Nutcracker

t e  a B

by Rod Campbell

Dece

16th

mbe

-18th

SAT 4 to SAT 11 DEC

ESHER THEATRE Box office

W W W. E S H E RT H E AT R E .CO M

01372 469209

Christmas Ballet aimed at families and children Produced by Dance Direction

Book online

eshertheatre.com DEAR SANTA 2021 A4 [PRESS]_venues la].indd 7

ESHER THEATRE, SURREY, KT10 9RA

21/10/2021 12:39

esher theatre PRESENTS

presents

22nd December 2021 Doors: 6pm / Starts 7pm www.eshertheatre.com

S S

ING

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FEATURES

THE XMAS GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM

MINI RETRO DESK FRIDGE @KOOLATRON WWW.WAYFAIR.CO.UK

A simple and stylish way for him to keep his favourite can of something ice-cold while he’s slogging away at his desk. Simply plug in and after five minutes it provides a cool 8.5 degrees home to canned drinks or food of your choice. The fridge fits 6 x 330 ml cans. This black Retro Desk Fridge from Koolatron is priced at £53.78 from Wayfair in the sale now - and is bound to make him smile when he opens this Christmas.

Do you pull your hair out every festive season, wondering what to buy for his Christmas stocking? While most men at some time, have been way off the ‘good gift radar’, presenting us with the newest model of dishwasher, toolkit or vacuum cleaner, most of us women get quite stressed out in our pursuit of the perfect man gift. This festive season, to save you from pulling your hair out, we’ve come up with a few funky ideas for him.

REISS COAT INFO@REISS.COM WWW.REISS.COM

HELLO@RNGCLASSICS.COM WWW.RNGCLASSICS.COM

RNG CLASSICS

DAPPER & SUAVE

Crafted from a wool blend in a houndstooth pattern, the black and white General coat is an homage to heritage tailoring. It’s shaped to a double-breasted front with notch lapels and lightly padded shoulders – complete with an interior satin finish. Wear it over a roll neck jumper for a classic layered edit. At only £350 it is a great buy for him for Christmas and beyond.

Buying for him is hard isn’t it? Well, why not get him the car of his dreams for the day? If you book in December you can get a 20% Discount on the day rate for a stunning 911 Carerra Cabriolet and Porsche 356a Speedster through RNG Classics. Prices start from £250. Other cars to choose from are the Ferrari 308, Rolls Royce Silver Shadow or the Triumph Spitfire. See their website for full details and pricing.

This gorgeous Cravat and Pocket Square Set is the perfect gift for a flamboyant man in your life and is only £30 (available as individual items too). The art deco stars design from Dapper & Suave is proudly handmade. Check out their website for more accessories in quirky and fun prints for everyone. They also stock a range of vintage bow ties and collaborate with local businesses to create new products including t-shirts, artwork, cards, candles and beauty.

SET OF VOODOO KNIVES

RIND VOUCHERS

HAT & SCARF SET

These ultra-sharp numbers are designed by the Italian design guru Raffaele Iannello, making the ‘Voodoo’ knife collection cutting-edge cool. The set consists of five stainless steel knives, including a paring knife, a bread knife, a carving knife, as well as a large and a small cutting knife. All he needs when he wants to get stuck in, in the kitchen. The Set of Voodoo Knives sells for £69.00 and is available online at Fruugo.

Bringing the British modern sharing plate to Surrey. The Rind has established itself as the go-to wine bar for excellent cheese and wine pairing. This gem of a cheese and wine bar serves delicious British cheeses, Dorset cured meat and signature dishes such as truffled grilled thyme and garlic aubergines, cheese toastie, raclette and fondue. There is a fantastic selection of wine to accompany selected from their head sommelier. Get your man vouchers this Xmas and enjoy a fabulous dining experience with him.

This scarf and beanie hat set by Hugo Boss is presented in a lovely box for easy gifting at only £119. Detailed with a signature colour-block design, this accessory set is created in soft yarn blended with virgin wool for cosy comfort. Jacquard-woven Boss logos on both pieces round off this coolweather duo. Scarf measurements are 180 x 30cm. Choose from black and turquoise or navy blue and red designs.

@RAFFAELEIANNELLO WWW.FRUUGO.COM

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01372 377892 WWW.THE-RIND.CO.UK

07757 760042 WWW.DAPPERANDSUAVE.UK

@HUGOBOSS WWW.HUGOBOSS.COM

FEATURES RONI B KITCHEN

SALES@RONIBKITCHEN.CO.UK WWW.RONIBKITCHEN.CO.UK Roni B’s Kitchen was started by Roni from her Surrey kitchen with the aim of introducing Philippine flavours to the UK through her products. She started with 2 products in 2017 and it has now grown to 8 products. Roni B’s Kitchen has recently been awarded The Great Taste Producer seal having received 3 awards in the last 3 years. Roni B has created a selection of festive gift boxes for you to choose from with prices starting from £17.

DINE & SPA DAY

COCKTAIL MAKER

HENRY SCREEN CLEANER

Is he always messing up your cocktails?! Then this nifty little number from Drinkworks allows him to simply put in a cocktail pod and make cocktails in under a minute by just the touch of a button. With 30 plus different cocktail variations to choose from you can wow guests with your cocktail makingexpertise! The Drinksworks Home Bar has an onboard chilling and carbonation device to make chilled, bubbly cocktails for you and your friends. Buy from £399 at Master of Malt.

Do fingerprints on his iPad drive him mad? Well, with this nifty little Henry screen cleaner he can keep all of those little annoying marks off any electronic screen. The Henry Screen Cleaner is also a funky looker in that it’s an exact replica of the classic Henry Hoover design. It’s small enough to carry around and is made from a super-soft microfibre which wipes clean any laptop, tablet or smartphone. Henry is also machine washable and comes in at only £8.99.

@DRINKWORKS WWW.MASTEROFMALT.COM

@HENRYHOOVER WWW.FINDMEAGIFT.CO.UK

01372 571374 WWW.BEAVERBROOK.CO.UK

01372 372771 WWW.TREND1.CO.UK

TREND 1

LUC CLOTHING

Get a Dine & Spa Day Package combining wellness, nature and unique dining, the Dine & Spa day package at Beaverbrook is the perfect way to give the gift of relaxation this year. With the choice of nourishing, fresh dishes at The Garden House restaurant or authentic Japanese cuisine in The Dining Room there’s something for everyone on this day visit package. Guests will enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants and full use of The Coach House Spa facilities, where they can take a dip in the pool followed by a rejuvenating steam and sauna session.

New Italian wine bar and delicatessen, Trend 1, based in Leatherhead are offering hampers which make a perfect gift idea for your loved ones this Christmas - packed full of Italian goodies. It can be personalised too to suit cheese, meat, dessert or wine lovers or a mix of all four. Pop in and ask Giovanni and the team to create something special at a budget to suit you.

Luc Clothing have just dropped their new collection of loungewear consisting of hoodies, sweatshirts, T-shirts and tracksuits. This uber cool brand from You Tube sensations, Woody and Kleiny – currently presenting for ITV’s Tik Tok “I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!” The brand has become a smash hit since its launch in 2018 with celeb fans including footballer Mario Balotelli and TV personalities Chris Hughes and Alex Murphy. Plus, if you order in December with the code ROCKS15 at checkout you can get 15% off your purchases.

ROLEX GMT-MASTER II

BREWERY EXPERIENCE

COFFEE FLAMINGO

If budget is not an option, gifting him a watch like this new Rolex GMT Master II from Rolex will mightily impress him. This watch made from Oystersteel featuring a black dial, two colour Cerachrom bezel insert in a blue and black ceramic with a Jubilee bracelet will ensure he loves you forever! Prices start from £22,000.

With this £85 gift experience your man can spend a day learning all about the fine art of beer brewing and get involved with all the stages of brewing while dining on some of the Brewhouse & Kitchen’s finest pub classics with this Full Day Brewery Experience with lunch and tastings. If he likes beer - he will love this Christmas Gift. With a 12-month validity and 23 locations throughout the UK to choose from.

Coffee Flamingo’s mission is to offer “great tasting, no jargon or snobbery, just beautifully delicious, ethical sourced, hand curated coffee in its simplest form.” Their festive Coffee Lovers Hamper priced at £32.99 is the perfect gift for the coffee lovers in your life. The hamper includes:1x 227g ground Festive Sumatran Mandheling coffee, 1x 227g ground Peru coffee, 1x 227g ground Colombia coffee, 1x Hario V60 dripper, 1 x 40 Hario V60 filter papers, 1 x small bag of cinnamon.

@ROLEX WWW.ROLEX.COM

@BREWHOUSE&KITCHEN WWW.VIRGINEXPERIENCEDAYS.CO.UK

@LUCCLOTHING WWW.LUCCLOTHING.COM

@COFFEEFLAMINGO2020 WWW.COFFEEFLAMINGO.CO.UK

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FEATURES

THE XMAS GIFT GUIDE FOR HER

FAUX FUR COAT

@RALPHLAUREN WWW.RALPHLAUREN.CO.UK Designed with an elongated, slightly oversized silhouette and a hood that provides extra protection, this plush, ultrasoft faux-fur jacket is a glamorous choice for the leading lady in your life. Priced at only £299 in black or pinot noir pictured this jacket is a great gift choice for Christmas and those colder winter months.

Get in her good books this Christmas with our handy selection of gifts that show you really care. From stocking fillers like personalised ‘Reason I Love You’ notes to gorgeous jewellery and designer handbags – plan ahead accordingly and reap the benefits this Christmas season!

FLOWER SUBSCRIPTION

HAIR STRAIGHTENERS @DYSONCORRALE WWW.SELFRIDGES.CO.UK

@PERSONALISEDLOVENOTES WWW.NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM

“A gift that keeps on giving” can come in the form of a subscription of flowers from Hannah Martin every month. Alternatively, this beautiful Rainbow Wreath contains dried flowers, leaves and other festive ingredients creating an everlasting work of art for your wall or door. It is presented in a large pink box alongside a trio of deliciously scented wax melts, a rainbow candy cane and a pouch of rainbow chocolate coins. 5% of proceeds go to the Rainbow Trust too.

Looking for something special for her this festive season? Then allow us to introduce you to the king of hair straighteners, the Dyson Corrale. Built to be used cord-free for up to 30 minutes, the Corrale is kitted out with flexing manganese copper alloy plates to make styling easy and avoid splaying. It uses less heat than an average straightener with three different heat settings and promises less damage as a result; reducing frizz and fly-aways too.

Share the reasons you love someone with this romantic and thoughtful gift. Great for stockings for her or to add onto another gift they come in 12 different designs and come in gorgeous boxes complete with ribbons in a number of colourways. Priced at £16.80 and allow 3-4 working days for delivery.

HANNAH@HANNAHMARTIN.NET WWW.HANNAHMARTIN.NET

BRA & BRIEF SET

LOVE YOU NOTES

@AGENTPROVOCATEUROFFICIAL WWW.AGENTPROVOCATEUR.COM

INFO@FIORSKINCARE.CO.UK WWW.FIORSKINCARE.CO.UK

FIOR SKINCARE

CHANEL MIRROR

Give the lovely lady in your life a new set of underwear from the uber cool designer brand Agent Provocateur. Choose from lingerie, sleepwear or accessories including fluffy kitten heels and silk robes. Made from the finest quality material with celebrity fans including Kate Moss, Kylie Minogue and Victoria Beckham you can be rest assured that this will wow her this Xmas. The featured set called ‘Molly’ starts from £125 and comes in a fuschia pink or Christmas gold.

A beautiful gift set designed to bring the spa experience to your home. Complete with Himalayan pink bath salts with lavender essential oil (250g), three hand poured soy tealight candles with geranium essential oil, a facial cleansing cloth, Hydra Boost hyaluronic acid facial serum (15ml) and Nutra Boost facial cream (30ml). All in a luxury matt black gift box. All products are vegan, cruelty-free and free from parabens, sulphates, silicones and other undesirable chemicals.

Located between Guildford and Farnham The Packhouse sell a huge variety of vintage, antique and one-off buys from furniture and interior finishing touches, like this Chanel mirror pictured, to gifts and fashion accessories. You won’t find a more exciting and diverse mix anywhere else. There are over 60 independent traders who sell unique `items sourced from around the world so sourcing original gifts for her from here is a must!

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01252 781010 WWW.PACKHOUSE.COM

FEATURES T-SHIRT & CARGO PANTS @WONDERLUSTLONDON WWW.WONDERLUSTLONDON.COM

LILY & GRACE

@LOVELILYANDGRACE_ WWW.LOVELILYANDGRACE.COM

LOUIS VUITTON BAG

This ethical range from Wonderlust consists of £75 Luxe Felix Trousers and £45 for their She-Ra Tee. By producing limited quantities, with local skilled workers Wonderlust are fashion forward and a great company to shop with. Not only do they have a minimal carbon footprint with negliable waste, they are also conscious to design pieces that will live in your wardrobe season after season.

A fine gold-plated ball chain adorned with 3 beautifully coloured clay gems coated in resin - all individually handmade. Four colour styles available. Matching necklaces and earrings available in these beautiful sets which make for the perfect Christmas gift. Available as a bracelet (3 gems) for £22 or 18inch necklace (4 gems) for £24. Earrings are £8 or free when purchasing the bracelet and necklace together.

With ‘ethical and reusable’ fashion being the buzzword on fashion forward girls minds these days you can pick up these designer handbags – like the Chloe Daryl Tote, Mulberry Somerset, Louis Vuitton Batton or Michael Kors Tote from as little as £350 from Your Preloved Stories. Check out their website for great designer fashion and accessories at affordable prices.

NATURE-RECLAIMED.SHOP

DINE & SPA DAY

JEWELLERY DESIGNS

This upcycled wine bottle candle features a cut-out label, lighting up as the candle burns down, to reveal a festive robin. A delicious blend of essential oils combining mandarin and tonka, with nutmeg, cinnamon and clove for an indulgently spiced aroma. The perfect candle to get you feeling merry and bright, filling your home with the scent of Christmas.

Beautifully unique sterling silver jewellery inspired by natures colours and shapes. Their collections use gemstones and glass enamel to adorn the pieces to create organic and natural shapes and textures. All pieces are designed and handmade by designer and brand owner Hayley Tea in her Surrey workroom. The Rockpool Collection featured here start from £135.

ORB EARRINGS

STONEWARE CLAY 07912 448823 WWW.PARKGATEPOTTERY.CO.UK

KILLER HEELS

@LOUBOUTINWORLD WWW.CHRISTIANLOUBOUTIN.COM

New for Christmas 2021 these stunning ‘Mayfair Bas Relief Rose Gold’ Vivienne Westwood Orb earrings are made from shining cut crystals with a rodhium-plated brass finish. They are a snip at only £75 and a matching necklace has also been designed for Christmas that won’t break the bank balance at a reasonable £85. Silver are available to and start from £100.

Parkgate Pottery in Newdigate is a small batch pottery creating functional ware made from stoneware clay and glazed in a variety of blues featuring designs inspired by nature. These mugs are thrown on the wheel and finished by hand using a wax relief technique between the glaze layers. £28 each. You can also learn to throw with Andrea and experience vouchers can be purchased on the website for the ultimate Christmas gift.

If there’s one thing Christian Louboutin knows how to execute, it’s a head-turning entrance that only can be likened to that of a modern fairytale. These brand new for Xmas - Hot Chick pumps - priced at £625, are envisioned through this idea and showcase the silhouette’s iconic curves, pointed toe and that flash of red that will be recognised in both an office and dancefloor setting. A great gift idea for her.

ENQUIRIES@NATURE-RECLAIMED.SHOP @NATURERECLAIMEDSHOP

@VIVIENNEWESTWOOD WWW.VIVIENNEWESTWOOD.COM

01372 571374 WWW.BEAVERBROOK.CO.UK

@YOURPRELOVED_STORIES WWW.YOURPRELOVEDSTORIES.COM

HAYLEY@CURIOSI-TEA.CO.UK WWW.CURIOSI-TEA.CO.UK

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

FEATURES

THE XMAS GIFT GUIDE FOR THEM

NINTENDO LEGO SETS @SUPERMARIO WWW.LEGO.COM

Lego Super Mario toy playsets offer a new way to play in the real world with iconic Super Mario characters, Mario and Luigi. The new Lego Starter Courses and Expansion Sets, plus Power-Up Packs, combine in limitless ways to allow fans to build their own levels. Starter kids available from £99.88 and for the full package set aside a cool £289.99. Great for kids aged 6 plus.

The hardest task in any parent’s life is finding gifts that the kids will love. The anticipation of watching them unwrapping a gift in 2 nano-seconds that you have meticulously wrapped for 5 minutes only to hear a sigh of disappointment on Christmas morning – it’s heartbreaking! Hopefully these gifts will be worth the wrapping.

MICRO SCOOTER @ECOSCOOTER WWW.MICROSCOOTERS.COM

AKWA BABY

020 80911895 WWW.AKWABABY.COM

STAY & SKATE PACKAGE

Micro Scooters have launched their new range of Eco scooters made using discarded fishing nets that pollute our oceans. The Eco Maxi Micro Deluxe boasts added durability, performance and eco-credentials. Working with partners, they recover discarded ocean plastic and transform it into the durable, colour-pop material. Micros are built to last - with the highest quality, replaceable parts - so they can be passed on and never end up in landfill. Available in the new ocean green colourway for Xmas 2021.

AKWA Baby, a brand of ethical clothing embracing African heritage and prints, that aim to celebrate colour and diversity has launched with a stunning capsule collection and brightly coloured Jumpers and Tees for Xmas 2021. AKWA Baby’s collection of kids jumpsuits and top and trouser combinations feature the beautiful ‘Obi’ print which means heart in the Lgabo tribe language are made unisex for ethical re-use between siblings. Teaching acceptance and self-love is at the forefront of the brand’s ethos.

Treat the kids to unlimited ice-skating when you visit Beaverbrook for an overnight stay between 1st December 2021 and 31st January 2022. Adding a touch of magic to winter breaks kids can twirl their way around the enchanting rink whilst enjoying wellloved yuletide melodies and indulging in a hot chocolate and sugary treats from their stunning rink-side cabins.

POLAROID CAMERA

FROM ANGIE WITH LOVE

ELLEY JANE DESIGNS

For the budding photographer, this new camera from Polaroid will entertain and amaze for hours. The Polaroid Now+ Starter Set, priced at £179.99, contains the most creative camera yet with 5 lens filters, plus extra creative tools to unlock inside the Polaroid mobile app. With three packs of film inside, this set is all your littles ones need to create great images this Christmas and beyond.

Surrey pet and wildlife artist Angie produces a fantastic range of gifts including prints, greeting cards, mugs, and coasters; all based on her portraits of beautiful animals and birds. These delightful tins make ideal Christmas gifts - especially when you stuff them full of chocolates or biscuits - and are only £12.99 each. Discover something unique and original this Christmas.

These uplifting designs with a sustainable/ethical fashion approach – in Hoodies & Sweatshirts - are made from organic cotton and printed on demand in the UK. The “Shine Bright Like A Star” featured here are the brands best sellers so far. The two hoodies are £32 each and Elley Jane does free shipping anywhere in the UK with any purchases from their website.

@POLAROID WWW.UK.POLAROID.COM

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07909 543312 WWW.WILDLIFEPORTRAITARTIST.COM

01372 571374 WWW.BEAVERBROOK.CO.UK

@ELLEYJANE_DESIGNS/ WWW.ELLEYJANEDESIGNS.COM

FEATURES NEON NAME SIGN

CREATIVE PICKLES

HOT WHEELS

This personalised neon sign is cool for any child at any age – fun and practical. Children will love seeing their name in lights but also the soft glow at bedtime. It is available in 5 colours and any name can be written (even the most unusual!) as the signs are handmade in a studio. Choose from blue, pink, green, red or white. Allow 4-5 working days for delivery so the cut off for Christmas is the 16th December. It comes in at £85 but delivery to the UK is free.

Creative Pickle creates unique and bespoke alphabet prints and gifts for little ones. The fun illustrations and bright colours are created to encourage children to engage, imagine and learn. These transport flash cards, priced at £17, are new to the range and are a perfect gift for toddlers and young children, allowing them to learn the alphabet and modes of transport in a fun and colourful way.

The Hot Wheels Massive Loop Mayhem Track Set is a thrilling playset that gives kids the opportunity to test their Hot Wheels vehicles against each other. The set, priced at £55, features a 71cm wide loop track which is perfect to race Hot Wheels cars. Kids can use the slam launcher to see how many vehicles can run at once and have nail-biting near misses before some awesome crashes start to happen. One Hot Wheels car is included to get the excitement started.

LIBRA FINE ARTS

@NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET WWW.NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM

INFO@SSWCREATIVE.CO.UK WWW.SSWCREATIVE.CO.UK

@ARGOSUK WWW.ARGOS.CO.UK

07595 336062 WWW.LIBRAFINEARTS.CO.UK

O-DEER GAME

@WICKEDUNCLE WWW.WICKEDUNCLE.COM

PERSONALISED BOOKS

This popular Bunny Cosmetic Pouch is priced at £15. The Bunny is originally hand drawn in charcoal and graphite and is perfect for adding little gifts into at Christmas time. You can add make-up, hair ties, chocolates, tickets, passports, pencils and pens. Perfect for secret Santas or instead of crackers. They can be used as a bag on their own or inside a handbag to keep phone and keys safe. Libra Fine Arts plant a tree for every sale to give back to the world. They have a range of art prints, homeware and gifts featuring original hand drawn artwork.

A brilliantly entertaining festive game for up to 7 players - extremely silly and great fun. Dance or dash around the room with a wobbly rack of rubbery antlers on your head. Then try to catch or avoid being hooped by the other players. Full of seasonal silliness and comes with one set of inflatable antlers, six inflatable gold rings, timer and a red nose for Rudolph for only £12.99. Hilarious entertainment for all ages and perfect for prancing around - not another reindeer joke, O-Deer!

A mixture of traditional Nursery Rhyme favourites as well as brand new personalised poem’s based on a child’s first name. Listed by The Independent in the Top Ten Best Personalised books. Personalise the book with their first name and a special personal message to print at the start of the book if you wish. A wonderful gift for Xmas and any special occasion. Priced at £23.

CRAYOLA ART CASE

KINDLE KIDS EDITION @KINDLEUK WWW.AMAZON.CO.UK

PIANO MAT

@WICKEDUNCLE WWW.WICKEDUNCLE.COM

You can have all the art tools you need whenever and wherever inspiration strikes with the Crayola Inspiration Art Case. Crayons, pencils, markers, and paper are neatly packed into a convenient carrying case. Choose from a huge selection of colours to make your mark on any project. A special compartment for each tool means staying organized is simple and the attached handle brings ease to taking your colouring supplies on-the-go. Only £20 this Xmas.

This small, lightweight reader is the perfect size for kids and comes with a folding cover, a year of Amazon Kids +, and a promise that Amazon will replace it if it breaks within 2 years. That’s a necessity! There are also no games, ads or voice assistants so your child can read in peace. With Free Time Unlimited it includes books like Harry Potter and C. S. Lewis, plus easy to white-list library books and other free content.

Easy to use, this colourful piano dance mat measures an impressive 180cm long and has 24 touch-sensitive keys that are colour coded and numbered. Use your feet to play in seconds, simply following the colour coded songs, with ten classics including Chopsticks, Happy Birthday and Old McDonald, of course. You can record and listen to your tunes or play along to inbuilt melodies, with a choice of 8 individual instruments including the trumpet, guitar, violin and even a harp.

@ARGOSUK WWW.ARGOS.CO.UK

@NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET WWW.NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

 020 8979 8007

 107 Walton Road, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 0DR

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We are delighted you have found us and sincerely hope that you are persuaded to visit one of our five beautiful venues. experience a relaxing and special one. The food we serve is always cooked fresh on the premises and, where possible, we use local experience a memorable one - be it for business, pleasure or just to pass the time. Whether you visit for a quick sandwich in the b same. Our venues are often busy, particularly at weekends and Bank Holidays, so advance bookin

 01737 353 529

 Our Head Office Location Inn on the Green, The Grumpy M

TADWORTH  01737 353529  tadworth@thegrumpymole.co.uk

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Mole, Dorking Road, Tadworth, Surrey, KT20 5RX

 www.thegrumpymole.co.uk

WONDERLUST XMAS PARTYWEAR www.wonderlustlondon.com

Star Studded Jumper £65 Sequin Cabaret Skirt £140

Festive As... Tee £38 Sequin Cabaret Skirt £140

Vixen Cami £45 Sequin Cabaret Skirt £140

Festive As... Sweatshirt £65 Sequin Cabaret Skirt £140

Colin Kimono Dress £160

Vixen Velvet Cami £45 Sarah Skater Jeans £125

Faux Fur Camel Coat £160 Vixen Velvet Cami £45 Sarah Skater Jeans £125

Fuzzy Leopard Jumper £65 Feather Skirt £170

Velvet Dream Dress £160

WELCOME TO LUC LET US CREATE. EVERYONE HAS THE POWER AND FREEDOM TO STEP OUTSIDE THEIR COMFORT ZONE AND CREATE THEIR OWN REALITY. SHINE YOUR OWN LIGHT ON YOUR LIFE AND STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD. #LETUSCREATE

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COOL LASER RE A

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ESURFACING

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

FEATURES and the dark spots had reduced dramatically.” “My eldest grandchild said that my skin looks really good now and lots of other people have commented that I look good. It’s given me more confidence, and although there’s a stigma of being old, and the idea that you shouldn’t waste your money on things like this when you’re old, but I think my generation is getting braver and I’m proof that it’s never too late to try” Lisa added, “Cool Laser works very well with most skin types and really helps to rewind the clock. We can combine Cool Laser with HIFU (ultrasound) and EMS (electrical muscle stimulation), radio frequency with rose plant stem cell therapy and a collagen lifting light therapy, giving you the closest results to a face lift – without needing to go under the knife.” “It’s also vital to remember that good diet and good gut health is paramount to improving skin quality, so we often suggest supplements to our patients alongside our treatment plans.”

HOW COOL LASER RESURFACING WORKS Cool Laser resurfacing treatment from Novus Medical is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that can help smooth wrinkles and improve the appearance of scars, pigmentation such as age spots and melasma and stretch marks. It doesn’t burn the skin as the laser actually heats the water in the skin and vaporises it. It uses a pulse of laser light to target the water within the skin. Afterwards skin may appear pink or tender and within a few days there will be peeling of the superficial layers of the skin. The heat also triggers a healing response in the deeper layer of the skin that boosts collagen growth to make skin look and feel tighter, lifted and healthier. It’s suitable for all skin types.

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CONTACT Lisa Harris Skin Science  @lisaharris_skinscience  97 Queens Road, Weybridge, KT13 9UQ  www.lisaharrisskinscience.co.uk

Welcome to Hummings An experimental café and cocktail bar in the heart of Esher

MONDAY - SUNDAY 09:00 - 16:30 THURSDAY - SATURDAY 19:00 - 02:00

 Hummings, 51A High Street, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9RQ  reservations@hummingsbar.co.uk  07771 626801  hummingsbaresher  hummings_bar

The Woodcote is a stunning collection of 98 ho

Choose from penthouses, Grade II listed conversion apartments, deluxe homes wi These spaces are beautiful on the outside and beautiful on the inside too, w all hand picked and finished

 020 3967 7567

 sales@thewoodcote-eps

omes designed with comfort and style in mind.

ith one, two or three bedrooms as well as freehold houses with beautiful gardens. with integrated appliances, state-of-the-art kitchens and elegant bathrooms, d with style and expertise.

som.co.uk

 www.thewoodcote-epsom.co.uk

OPENING TIMES: 12pm-12am Sunday – Thursday 12pm-1am Friday – Saturday

 27 Church Road, Leatherhead, KT22 8DN  01372 372722   skoopsleatherhead  Skoopsleatherhead@gmail.com  www.skoops.biz

Welcome to our Italian Restaurant and Bar located in Leatherhead High Street. Providing authentic Italian cuisine using only the finest ingredients, we look forward to welcoming you. Monday to Saturday - Midday to 11pm Sunday - Midday to 10pm 24 High Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8AN  01372 373266  www.lultimo.co.uk

Sweet Cheeks offers both sweet and savoury goods, ranging from classic cakes to favourites with a twist and novelty requests! Let us be a part of your day and we promise to create delicious memories lasting a lifetime…  sweet_cheeks_bakes  diyatgupta@icloud.com

WITH FRESH TOPPINGS, HANDMADE DOUGH AND A 400-DEGREE FIRE OVEN NOT ONLY IS IT AUTHENTIC BUT IT'S FAST – AROUND 180 SECONDS!  020 8979 8007 Via App: www.fireaway.app4food.co.uk

Just Eat, Deliveroo & Uber Eats  107 Walton Road, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 0DR

HOME & INTERIORS

HOW TO DECOR YOUR HOME FOR

hristmas for an interior designer is an absolute dream, it is a perfect excuse to spruce up our homes with glitter and twinkling lights. I even tell my husband the little white lie, that I need to do this over the top as it's for my business! But seriously we are in the middle of winter (unless you live somewhere lovely and tropical) and we need this festival ramp-up to lift our moods and add excitement.

Sadie Pizzey Sadie Pizzey Interiors is a full-service design firm based in Guildford. SP Interiors works on both residential and commercial projects and has recently been shortlisted for The International Design and Architecture Awards. Sadie designs with practical knowledge gained from extensive renovation experience. Her exceptional organisation and project management skills mean she keeps projects running to time and budget, developing innovative schemes and beautiful spaces to inspire clients. Sadie’s philosophy is: “We need our homes to be our battery chargers, to help us re-build and recover from everything that life throws at us. Designing spaces that embrace this, will dramatically improve our quality of life”. www.sadiepizzeyinteriors.com

RATE R CHRISTMAS

HOME & INTERIORS

FIVE MAIN AREAS TO DECORATE FOR CHRISTMAS Now maybe in previous years you have only concentrated on a Christmas tree, but Christmas is a time for joy and festive happiness. We need more than that solitary Christmas tree standing in the corner. I am here to tell you the five main areas to focus on when decorating your home for Christmas.

1. The Christmas Tree Most of us usually have a Christmas Tree in our homes, real or fake, it really doesn't matter, it's all about how you decorate it. The lights are hugely important, they are the foundation of your decor. Please, please, please choose warm white, cool white does what it says and creates a cool light. Christmas is about warmth and cosiness, so your lights need to reflect this. Do not skimp on lights, ideally there should be an inner layer and outer layer on each branch to give the tree depth. The colour palette is again a personal choice, for our living room I like to keep it traditional with red and gold. Whatever the scheme, keep it to two or three colours as this creates consistency. Garlands are a really striking element to add to the tree, large wooden beads to delicate gold beads, all down to your preferred aesthetics.

The next important aspect to the tree decor is scale, a Christmas tree needs a variety of large and small decorations to add interest and wonderment. I start with over large bows, but you could use large baubles or pine cones. Then add all you favourite, most treasured decorations, not forgetting to hang them at different positions on the branches again to create depth and intrigue.

2. Christmas Tree Two Now I know what you're thinking, a second Christmas tree are you nuts! But this does not and should not be the same, elaborate feature that the main Christmas tree is. There can only be one star in the show! However, with most of us living in more than just our living rooms, a second tree just adds to the Christmas spirit. This tree, however can be completely different to the main tree. In my home I have a large, real traditional tree in our living room but in our family room I have a faux snow tree, covered in just fairly lights. The branches covered in very convincing snow, creates the winter wonderland feel and is really magical for our girls. If you are restricted on floor space, then table trees or wall mounted trees are also a gorgeous feature. If you have kids, this second tree can also provide an opportunity for them to have their own tree. I am pretty precious about my main tree but for the other tree, they take charge and hang their favourite, handmade decs.

SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

HOME & INTERIORS

3. The Entrance Hall It makes me very sad when I enter someone’s home in the Christmas season to be presented with a non-festive hallway. The easiest area in your hall to add sparkle and festivities is your staircase. Garlands both real and faux, look beautiful around the banisters and then you can add anything you like. From woodland finds, to glittery baubles, it all looks fabulous interwound up your staircase.

As our home is fairly modern, I use a variety of sized pompoms going up my staircase. I use enormous to tiny in three striking Christmas colours and then add the wired (battery powered) fairly lights in between to make them all sparkle. If you have a large hallway, this maybe is the perfect place for your second tree. Alternatively, oversized reindeers and other Christmas statues are so gorgeous for kids. It immediately sets the festive mood when you arrive home. If you like to keep your home traditionally decorated, there is a huge range of rattan Christmas decorations, which look beautiful with twinkling fairy lights. If you like to entertain over the festive period, then setting up a small hall table for welcoming guests is another perfect area to add some sparkle. When we welcome neighbours to our home, I create a prosecco table with large white ostrich feathers, it's glamorous and fun!

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HOME & INTERIORS

4. Table and Kitchen Island Decorations I'm not just talking about decorating your table for the big day, although that is obviously very important but for all the days leading up to Christmas. Now I'm not suggesting that you cover your worktops in baubles and glitter, leaving you no space to cook, but adding a few gorgeous elements still gives you that warm Christmassy feel. Beautiful Christmas plants are a perfect addition to your table or island. There are so much to choose from, from Poinsettias to Christmas roses, allowing you to create a perfect festive vignette. For long tables three plants, interlined with wired fairy lights or candles looks beautiful. For islands and worktops, cluster a few plants together and you add some Candles, providing an opportunity to fill your home with a perfect Christmas scent. If you want your home to appeal to your kids, then tall glass jars filled with festive Christmas candy canes and gingerbread also looks magical, although the contents may not last that long! If you want your home to appeal to partying adults, then setting up a festive drinks counter with gold and glitter accessories, it really adds a wow factor to the festive celebrations!

5. Christmas Hanging Decorations When we take on a new project, we always remember to look at the spaces from all angles and all heights. It doesn't matter if you have the most amazing flooring if you've left your ceilings

completely bare. This is the same with decorating for Christmas, how a home looks from the floor to ceiling is very important. It all comes back to scale and perspective. Hanging Christmas decorations increases the sense of scale and allows your eyeline to be transported around the entire space. Now you can hang whatever you like, wherever you like. My preference is along tall patio, sliding or folding doors. When most of us extend or renovate our homes, we often add large expanses of glass to bring in the light and connect us to our gardens and nature. This provides a brilliant opportunity at Christmas to use them in our decorating schemes. Alternatively, a large wall also works well. For this rustic wall we added fairly lights and paper pin wheel decorations that create an incredible impact. You can string fairly lights, stars or even snowflakes and the finished effect is beautiful and magical. So there you have it, a very simple guide to bring in that much needed Christmas spirit into your home. We hope you enjoy transporting your home into a Christmas wonderland. And when those Christmas decorations all come down in January and you start to think your home might need a refurb, then get in touch with us.

www.sadiepizzeytinteriors.com info@sadiepizzeyinteriors.com SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

 020 83

 info@niku

 www.nikubaran

 @nik

 Niku Bar, 92 Ewell R

399 9980

ubar.co.uk

ndrestaurant.co.uk

ku_bar

Rd, Surbiton KT6 6EX

3 UNIQUE SPACES ALL UNDER 1 ROOF IN SOUTH WEST LONDON Eat with us Drink with us Dance with us

HOME & INTERIORS

ART FOR

ART’S SAKE

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HOME & INTERIORS

ncle Stubble started graffiti writing around the explosion of hip hop hitting the UK shores in the early 1980’s. After being arrested twice around the age of 16, he decided that he couldn’t put his mum through it anymore and quit! He continued to draw from time to time but put his creative energies into music, being in local legends such as Family Fandango, Spank and Life’s Circus. Also having a record deal in the mid 1990’s. Encouraged by his future wife, he began painting again in the 2000’s. And quickly started livening up grot spots in the area and local youth clubs. This lead to a lot of charity work and word of mouth. Now in 2021, it’s a full-time occupation, with no surface unpaintable. From walls, to wood, to canvas to fridges, anything is possible. With a deep desire to inspire kids with colour, whilst in Northampton recently, he also realised that what he does is for more than even he’d thought. “I was painting in Northampton, and it’s in a run-down area, where the homeless hang out. I was hired to paint a mural to brighten up the area for a forthcoming mini festival to bring people back to that part of town and not see it as an eyesore. I was watched and then chatted to some homeless guys for the whole time painting. Near the end one of the guys tried to give me his last £5. I was really moved. Like really moved. “I had to repeatedly explain that there was no need. We chatted some more and he explained his love of art and that he really appreciated what I was doing; talking about his history and how he missed that part of his life. It really changed my view on who I paint for. And who appreciates my art. It was a big eye opener.” Uncle Stubble has also recently begun giving talks in local Surrey schools about the history of graffiti, and the difference between graffiti and street art.

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HOME & INTERIORS

You can see his art or contact him for commissions on  Uncle Stubble 2 or  Stubbleuncle. Alternatively  unclestubble@hotmail.co.uk

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HOME & INTERIORS

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Harriotts Lodge, Ashtead £1,500,000

Harriotts Lodge is a superb family home set in the favoured Lane’s area of Ashtead, ideally located for the numerous outstanding local schools, including Downsend, St Johns, St Peters and St Andrews - all within easy reach and within catchment areas. The ground floor accommodation offers an elegant lightfilled drawing room with its dual aspect, feature fireplace and bi-folding doors to the garden. The bespoke kitchen/breakfast room offers a plethora of hand-crafted and painted cabinets, high quality granite worktops, a large central island with built-in wine fridge and breakfast bar seating. The opulent amount of space allows for a formal dining area with bi-folding doors to the garden, while just off the kitchen is a useful vestibule boot room with a stable door to the garden and handcrafted shoe and boot storage and access to the cloakroom, ideal for pool users. There is also a utility room which leads to the double width garages. Returning to the hall, you have the cloakroom and the study/media room. The stunning sweeping staircase leads you to the galleried wrap around landing. The stairs divide and to the left you find the stunning master suite with floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, leading through to the stunning en-suite bathroom. The spacious guest suite also boasts an en-suite shower room. Across the landing is the family bathroom that services the three further bedrooms and there is also a spacious gym. The house is set in a delightful plot with landscaped gardens, a driveway that offers parking for several cars and access to the double width garage. This property won’t be on the market long so early viewings are recommended.

Reads Property  01372 308963  hello@reads-property.com  www.reads-property.com SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04 105

LEATHE

ERHEAD

 iconstyle.co.uk  iconstyle_beauty_surrey  www.iconstyle.co.uk

ENJOY YOUR PERSONAL LUXURY EXPERIENCE TREATMENTS INCLUDE: Mesotherapy HIFU Non-Surgical Facelift Fibroplast Skin Tightening Lip Filler/Enhancement Semi-Permanent Make-up Microblading Laser Hair Removal Tattoo Removal

 07760 932357  13 Anyards Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 2LW

GASTRONOMY L’ULTIMO

% 01372 373266

WWW.LULTIMO.CO.UK Popular Italian restaurant in the heart of Leatherhead high street serving authentic Italian dishes with the finest, freshest ingredients. Great atmosphere and live music acts help to create a real buzz on weekends. Family friendly too. Bookings advised.

WHEN IT COMES TO DINING OUT IN SURREY WITH OVER 2,000 RESTAURANTS TO CHOOSE FROM - WHERE DO YOU START? WELL, HERE’S A GOOD PLACE! ENJOY OUR INDISPENSIBLE GUIDE TO THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN SURREY.

FETCHAM TANDOORI % 01372 374927

THE GARDEN HOUSE RESTAURANT % 01372 571300

THE RIND

% 01372 377892

WWW.FETCHAMTANDOORI.CO.UK

WWW.BEAVERBROOK.CO.UK

WWW.THE-RIND.CO.UK

Established in 1983, this family run restaurant serves traditional Indian classics as well as a bold and refreshing take on traditional Asian cuisine such as Coconut Shrimp and Rajasthan Lamb Chops. All ingredients are sourced from local farms and cooked fresh every day.

Tucked away behind the Beaverbrook Estate’s beautiful traditional walled garden, you’ll find The Garden House, a place where rustic, comforting, home-cooked, Mediterranean-style dishes and interiors inspired by the surrounding gardens create a delightful dining experience for all the senses.

Bringing the British modern sharing plate concept to Leatherhead. This gem of a wine & cheese bar serves delicious cheeses, Dorset cured meat and signature dishes such as Truffles, Grilled Thyme and Garlic Aubergines, Cheese Toastie, Tartiflette and Welsh Rarebit to name a few - with a fantastic selection of wine to accompany selected from their head sommelier.

NAVA THAI

JAPANESE GRILL

HUMMINGS

% 07771 626801 WWW.HUMMINGS.CO.UK

WWW.NAVATHAI.CO.UK

% 01372 571300 WWW.BEAVERBROOK.CO.UK

Café by day, Bar by night. Hummings Café is open from 9am to 4.30pm serving breakfast, brunch and lunch with an experimental twist on modern dining. Choose from Full English to Mediterranean at breakfast. Fresh, healthy and delicious choices for lunch change on a daily basis. The constantly evolving food menu always keeps customers enticed.

Serving the best, most authentic Thai Cuisine using only the finest, freshest local ingredients. Based in Ashtead High Street, Nava Thai, is owned and run by lifelong friends and business partners Saitarn & Nawarat. Open for lunch and dinner, for takeaway or collection this gem of a restaurant, ticks all the boxes for taste, quality, service and price.

Located in the Beaverbrook Main House, the Japanese Grill offers an elegant menu of delicately flavoured selections of sushi, sashimi and nigiri and the finest cuts of meat and fish from the Josper Grill. There are regular seasonal tasting menus where the Grill’s talented chef guides you through a selection of locally-sourced, modern Japanese gourmet specialities.

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% 01372 278909

GASTRONOMY CuVée VIII

% 01372 468880

GRUMPY MOLE  the_grumpy_mole

DEL FUOCO

% 01372 877374

WWW.CUVEE8.COM

WWW.THEGRUMPYMOLE.CO.UK

WWW.DELFUOCO.CO.UK

A classic French, Esher-based restaurant with famed chefs Marcellin Marc and David Fetigny. You’ll be hard pushed to find such exquisite French cuisine in a more beautiful Surrey setting. CuVee VIII also benefits from having a decadent wine bar, cocktail bar, secluded alfresco garden and private settings which plays host to the best DJ’s on the weekends & iconic musicians at their Jazz Club on Wednesday evenings.

Destination gastro pub The Grumpy Mole first opened their Tadworth restaurant in 2006. Fifteen years on and the group now own and run 4 further restaurants in Epsom, Cheam, Brockham and Oxted. The food is superb and the menu extensive catering for lunch, afternoon tea, snacks and dinner. A true Surrey success story. You must try if you haven’t already.

Italian café, restaurant and lounge serving delicious pizzas, pastas and Mediterranean-inspired starters, mains and desserts. Del Fuoco is one of the most popular restaurants in Bookham offering takeaway, delivery and dine in options. Excellent quality at affordable prices – if you haven’t tried yet Del Fuoco is a must.

BELUGA

CAFÉ DE LA POSTE

DITTO

 CAFEDELAPOSTE.BOOKHAM

% 01372 200142

% 020 8398 8662 WWW.DITTOTHAMESDITTON.COM

The ultimate destination Sushi bar/ restaurant is coming to Leatherhead this Autumn. Expect great food, spectacular cocktails, amazing ambience, world class DJ’s and unparalleled service. The new restaurant will be glam, decadent and definitely the place to be seen in Surrey as you can see from their stunning décor.

Freshly made happiness. A new smoothie and juice bar from the team that bought you Del Fuoco Italian. Serving coffee, smoothies, fresh juices, milkshakes and a wide range of paninis, sandwiches and salads. Located on Church Road in the heart of Bookham High Street, Café de la Poste is open for takeaways and deliveries.

Located in the heart of Thames Ditton, Ditto has a Mediterranean inspired menu and a beautiful secret garden for al fresco dining. Enjoy live music on Friday, relaxing BBQ on Sunday or Chess Nights on Tuesdays. There’s something for everyone including Diddy Ditto’s for kids.

THE GOOD EARTH

FIREAWAY PIZZA

 beluga.surrey WWW.BELUGA.BAR

% 01372 462489 WWW.GOODEARTHGROUP.CO.UK Hands down one of the best Chinese restaurants in Surrey. Established in Esher in 1967 this restaurant has standed the test of time with its fine cuisine, décor and service. Celebs including Karen Brady say, “Still wowed by the great food and impeccable service which has remained consistent even after 40 years.”

SKOOPS

% 020 8979 8007 WWW.FIREAWAYPIZZA.CO.UK

% 01372 372722

The fastest growing pizza company in the UK, Fireaway in East Molesey serves 12-inch Artisan pizzas with a choice of 4 bases and fresh, unlimited toppings. Choose from sweet or savoury too and enjoy your pizza cooked in 180 seconds in their 400° pizza oven. Be sure to check out their new waffle and ice-cream bar, Two Scoops of Fire.

Crepes, Waffles, Cookie Dough, Ice Cream & Shakes are the mainstay of this delicious American inspired eatery. You can try their desserts in hundreds of different ways such as Kinder Bueno, Ferrero Rocher, Daim or Oreo with your choice of syrups, ice-cream and fruit. There’s a huge selection of savoury snacks including Piri Chicken, Burgers and Sides.

WWW.SKOOPS.BIZ

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GASTRONOMY THE FRUIT MACHINE

MARBLE LOUNGE

THE VICTORIA OXSHOTT

WWW.MARBLELOUNGE.CO.UK

% 01372 238308 www.thevictoriaoxshott.com

Newly arrived to Cobham, The Fruit Machine has been established in Surrey for over 10 years, serving the best in local fruit and veg to markets in Epsom, Guildford & Worthing to name a few. Their first high street shop is a testament to their popularity in the area. It brings the best London markets have to offer, including the Strasberry - yes a raspberry infused with a strawberry! The best service and quality around.

Marble Lounge in Weybridge serves the finest waffles, crepes, cakes, sweets, ice-creams, milkshakes, smoothies and coffees. Check out their amazing new Diageo cocktail selection, their secret garden, flamingos and 6ft giant, huggable teddy bears and photo wall. It is perfect for a day out with the kids and an even better evening out for the adults. Also available for parties or private hire.

The Victoria Oxshott is a neighbourhood pub from Matt Larcombe, former head chef of The Crown at Bray, and Simon King of Igniting Hospitality from Gordon Ramsey, The Ritz and Fat Duck heritage. A pub has always been the heart of a community and this establishment is an exceptional new offer for Surrey. The Victoria offers an amazing dining experience with a menu of elevated British classics including fish & chips, steaks, gourmet burgers and traditional Sunday Roasts.

THAI TERRACE

63RD + 1ST

 fruitmachine83@gmail.com  @FRUITMACHINECOBHAM

% 01483 503350

% 01932 910452

% 0330 4605555

THE HIVE

% 07824 846941

WWW.THAITERRACE.CO.UK

WWW.63RDAND1ST.CO.UK

www.packhouse.com

Award-winning restaurant, Thai Terrace, serves only the finest, authentic Thai food. Located behind Guildford Castle this stunning rooftop restaurant offers superb panoramic views across the whole of the historic market town of Guildford. Choose to eat in the main restaurant with its exquisite décor or dine al fresco under the stars on the outdoor terrace. There’s also a grand bar area for pre-dinner drinks.

Inspired by the original Manhattan Bar that TGI had on 63rd and 1st, the US conglomerate has diversified launching a new, more upmarket enterprise. Interestingly, the only two 63RD & 1sts are in NYC and Cobham, Surrey. As much as our reviewers wanted to dislike the start of the new chain; the service, food, décor and cocktails requests we tested them on – were on point. A brave, bold move but this restaurant excelled on every level.

The Hive at The Packhouse serves Mozzo Coffee, Birchalls Teas, Nordic Wellness drinks and much more. For those looking for snacks or a light lunch; pastries, cookies, cakes, toasted sandwiches and other delights are available from 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on weekends. They also offer the best ice-cream from top local supplier, Meadow Cottage Farm, and have fantastic outdoor pods with WiFi for an exclusive gastronomy experience.

LUCIO’S

THE LOST BOY

THE PALM HOUSE

 info@lucios.co.uk  @LUCIOSCOFFEEDELI Focused on the best quality ingredients, original Italian coffee shop and delicatessen, Lucio’s is bringing fresh, authentic, Artisanal produce to Surrey. On their menus are arancini’s, Sicilian style pizzas, sandwiches from homemade bread and Focaccia, lasagnes, aubergine bakes and a wide selection of cakes and Italian sweets. Launching end of September in Leatherhead to eat in or takeaway.

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WWW.THELOSTBOYFARNHAM.CO.UK

% 01252 781423 www.palm-house.co.uk

Pizza, pasta and burgers are the best here. Sunday Roasts have been described as “exceptional - a new era for dining with an edge”. Don’t get lost with Lost Boys in Farnham, the menu is vast and may fool you, but they are the talk of the town at the moment. Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner – this new gastropub is exceptional in terms of service, décor and quality.

Make a day of it and combine your Packhouse shopping trip with breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea at the newly opened Palm House, with its beautiful art deco inspired botanical interior. Enjoy late night shopping until 7pm followed by dinner on Thursday and Friday evenings, or make Saturday night extra special with dinner from the exquisite brasserie style menu by Head Chef Nico Scarsini.

% 01252 947252

GASTRONOMY RED BAR & CAFÉ % 01932 850222

The Watermill

 The_watermill_dorking

www.red-restaurant.co.uk

www.thewatermill-dorking.co.uk

Popular Weybridge bar and restaurant Red is now offering a brunch, lunch and dinner option for Surrey residents from Tuesday to Saturday. Get in early for a fantastic coffee and breakfast/brunch served from 9.30am to midday and then enjoy lunch and dinner till late. Great food, décor and service as always with Red. Plus, there are great deals to be had with Thursday diners enjoying 40% off their food bill.

Opening this month, The Watermill offers an array of classic pub dishes, fusing tradition and innovation. The pub is all about great social food, from sharing plates and stix, to artisan pizzas and brunch. For those seeking the perfect spot for a nightcap there’s an extensive drinks menu featuring crafted cocktails and classic martinis. The Watermill’s Christmas menu, available from opening, is packed with festive delights such as free-range Bronze turkey, venison and gingerbread trifle.

POUNDING HEART

TREND 1

% 01372 700901  POUNDINGHEARTESHER

% 01372 372771

Pounding Heart Cocktail Bar & Pan Asian Kitchen celebrates the flavours of Pan Asian cuisine in a welcoming, exciting, vibrant and fun environment. Their cocktail bar is a social destination, serving popular cocktails and artesian spirits throughout the day with great 2 for £12 offers. The Esher-based restaurant creates delicious authentic Chinese & Indian cuisine for lunch and dinner.

Newly opened, Trend 1, in Leatherhead High Street is a delicatessen on the ground floor and late-night wine and piano bar on its second floor. Enjoy the finest Italian food for lunch, dinner, takeaways, events and private parties. A perfect spot - also with an outside lounge terrace - to enjoy fine wine, delicious food and a great atmosphere. From Giovanni Agozzino the owner of popular Italian restaurant, L’Ultimo, so you know it’s going to be Amazing.

ARTO RESTAURANT % 01306 644844

 TREND1

THE IVY COBHAM BRASSERIE

WWW.ARTORESTAURANT.CO.UK

% 01932 2901777 WWW.THEIVYCOBHAM BRASSERIE.COM

Arto is an independent restaurant in the heart of Dorking High Street that offers a varied menu, inspired by the idea of simple and honest cooking with a Mediterranean twist. Experience classic recipes to new age kitchen adventures, where each dish reflects Arto’s passion for the highest quality food using only the freshest ingredients.

With something for everyone, The Ivy Cobham Brasserie offers an all-day menu that ranges from lunch through to dinner including light snacks, and sandwiches. Now with a dedicated weekend brunch menu with some delicious alternatives to their mid-week à la carte and a drinks menu featuring much loved cocktails, including some classic favourites served with a twist.

Do you know a

Fantastic

S U R R E Y Restaurant? We’re not talking run of the mill here! The food, service, setting and ambience has to amaze...

If so PLEASE

EMAIL info@ rocksmag.com Recommend the restaurant, the reason why and we’ll endeavor to visit and test to include in our new

Gastronomy

Guide SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04 113

Pounding Heart Cocktail Bar & Pan Asian Kitchen celebrates the flavours of Asian cuisine in a welcoming, vibrant and fun environment. Tuesdays to Saturdays: Happy Hour cocktails 2 for £12 (6pm to 9pm) Thursday Nights: Live Singers Weekends: Dim-Sum Bottomless Brunch DJ’s playing the finest in Latin, Funky, Soulful House and Disco.  01372 700901

 hello@poundingheart.co.uk   poundingheartesher  110 High Street, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9QL

The Modern British Sharing Plate Concept Comes to Surrey.

Rind - Wine & Cheese - 2021  48 High Street. Leatherhead. KT22 8AJ  01372 377892  saycheeseandwine@gmail.com  www.the-rind.co.uk   Rind.uk

RESTAURANT REVIEW

TREND 1 TANTALISES N

ew Italian delicatessen and wine bar, Trend 1, offers the finest Italian food and drink to eat in or takeaway in the heart of Leatherhead High Street. Choose from the finest Italian cured meats, charcuterie, cheese, arancini, desserts, pastries, cakes and the best Italian condiments. It’s extensive drinks menu includes fantastic Italian, French and New Zealand wines and a great selection of cocktails and Italian aperitifs. From the owner of popular mainstay restaurant, L’Ultimo – located just opposite Trend 1 in Leatherhead; the new Italian inspired venue offers a fully stocked delicatessen on the ground floor - which is now open 7 days a week from 9am to 7pm and a late-night wine/piano bar open on the second floor which opens from 8.30pm till late Thursday to Sunday evenings. Trend 1 caters for hot or cold food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and takeaways as well as events and private parties for up to 60 guests. Also available are hampers which make a perfect gift idea for your loved ones this Christmas packed full of Italian goodies. It can be personalised too to suit cheese, meat or wine lovers. Pop in and ask Giovanni and the team to create something special at a budget to suit you. Trend 1 is a perfect spot, also with an outside lounge terrace, to enjoy fine wine, food and a great atmosphere. Also, every Thursday to Sunday Trend 1 has live music from 8.30pm till late featuring the best in local talent including local

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Leatherhead singer and pianist Hannah Perrin and Weybridge singer, lyricist and chart topper Agnes Jones.

OUR EXPERIENCE We were pleasantly surprised on arrival to Trend 1, the service was warm and welcoming, and we were asked where we wanted

RESTAURANT REVIEW

to sit - a nice touch in a restaurant when three or more tables were available, as was the case on our Thursday review night. We decided to sit near to the piano as we heard the great news a live singer was due on at 8.30pm. We started off with a cocktail – the Mojito was amazing and had lots of lime but not too much sweetness from the brown sugar and the Daquiri was amazing too. The glasses were huge too – another bonus! We opted for a meat and cheese sharing platter instead of the usual courses and

it was the perfect accompaniment to the evening. There’s something truly wonderful about breaking bread with friends – it is so sociable. Our waiter asked us if we preferred red or white so to pair us with the right wines to go with our dinner. We opted for red and an Italian favourite Negramaro from Puglia was recommended. It went so well with our platter and did not break the bank either at £5.50 for a large glass or £27.00 for the bottle. The singer came on at 8.30pm as advised and wowed the wine bar – the piano playing in the background is such an elegant touch to an evening out. We could have been in Capri not Leatherhead High Street!

SUMMARY In summary, I have to say we had a blast and stayed on for another cocktail to enjoy the music and ambience. Food wise there was the widest selection of Italian cured meats and hams and the cheese was sublime. The fresh bread had lots of doughiness and crunchy crust – perfect for eating with the cheese, ham, olive and condiments on offer. Even the breadsticks were good too! We will definitely be back.

CONTACT  01372 372771  info@trend1.co.uk  www.trend1.co.uk  31 High Street, Leatherhead, Surrey SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04 117

LET THE FES

his month started off with my son Zachary’s 4th Birthday Party which was pretty epic. As he is obsessed with pirates, we went for a pirate theme party in a local hall (which is definitely the way forward when you have 20 four-year olds running around!) My mum aka party planner extraordinaire managed to source a giant pirate ship prop which is actually used for film sets. So extra I know but anything to keep the little ones entertained! Lots

Ria Elaina Atkins A Mum’s Life Let me introduce myself – I’m Ria, Mum of two, married to my handsome hubby. I’m born and bred in my beloved Surrey and spend most of my time between here and London. I’m a handbag and shoe addict and lover of all things luxe. To find out more about Ria’s luxe lifestyle follow her on Instagram @ria.elaina 118 SURREYROCKS | ISSUE 04

STIVITIES COMMENCE of fun was had all round with the pirate entertainers, including a Jack Sparrow lookalike, who was a huge hit with the mums! For more information on who we used for the suppliers, please check out my Instagram. With the festivities kicking off in full swing this year, it’s no wonder that people want to go all out when it comes to decorations. I think it’s a wonderful way to express your creativity and makes for such a lovely atmosphere. While traditionalists believe that Christmas trees should go up 12 days before Christmas, we love to enjoy the festivities for a little longer and so our tree is up by mid-November. The wonderful Fabienne Egger and her team helped me style it by sourcing some wonderful decorations. I also have a collection of my own decorations from over the years which gives my tree some history and meaning. London is my absolute favourite city in the world, there’s no place like it. The dark late afternoons of December help make the lights and Christmas decorations all the more spectacular. My favourite place to eat out at Christmas is 34 Mayfair. It’s named ‘Miracle at 34’ because of its extravagant festive makeover which features 14,000 decorations covering every inch of the wall and ceilings. It certainly is a dazzling festive haven. London hotels are fabulous for those festive celebrations. My favourites being The Savoy and Claridges. The Savoy always has a special place in my heart as it is where I got married 8 years ago. This year their decorations have transformed the hotel into a magical forest of tapering trees dripping with champagne coloured ornaments and lights. They have partnered with Nyetimber, which if you didn’t know, is the leading English sparkling wine

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producer and is absolutely delicious. The iconic unveiling of the Claridges Christmas tree has everyone in suspense. Each year they collaborate with a leading creative from a fashion house to create a unique tree. Rumour has it that this year the collaboration is with Dior, I cannot wait to see that one. The most magical place for families at this time of year has to be Lapland UK. It is a fully immersive experience including a theatre show, building your own toy in the toy factory, decorating gingerbread men with Mother Christmas, ice skating, seeing real life reindeer and meeting the main man himself, Father Christmas. Each family gets to meet with him in a cosy log cabin with a roaring fire after having been lead through a forest with snow topped pine trees by a friendly elf. Whilst we were waiting to be seen an elf discreetly checked that Santa had all of Zachary’s personal details to make his meeting with him extra special, which it certainly was! Whatever you wish for, the best gift of all, is love.

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 29 Church Street, Weybridge, KT13 8DG  01932 910452  info@marblelounge.co.uk  www.marblelounge.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

XMAS SHOPPING AT THE PACKHOUSE

he Packhouse is gearing us up for Christmas with a series of Late Night Shopping Events for its customers. Guests were able to enjoy mince pies, bubbles and a live singer on Wednesdays ticketed events plus every Thursday and Friday in the lead up to Xmas the beautiful interior design and antique store will have late night shopping till 7pm.

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OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

THE WATERMILL WOWS LOCALS

ollowing months of renovation, The Watermill in Dorking opened its doors to guests for a sneak preview on 24th November. Guests were treated to complimentary drinks and canapes from their carefully curated pub menu while enjoying tours of the extensive new 310 capacity gastro pub destination with its Box Hill views and live music from local singers.

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OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR COMES TO OXSHOTT

he Oxshott Village Christmas Spectacular, organised by local businessman James Davis and sponsored by Oxshott Properties Ltd, kicked off the start of Christmas with a fun filled evening of festive activities. John and Toni Terry turned on the Christmas lights followed by an evening full to the brim with locals and familiar faces; such as model Olivia Arben, actress and singer Ciara and Måns Zelmerlöw and footballers Matt Jarvis and Scott Dan, at the newly reopened The Victoria Oxshott in the High Street.

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OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

SURREY HILLS SUSTAINABILITY PROJECT LAUNCHES

he first Surrey Hills Champions’ Tree Planting Day was held on Sunday 21st November at Clandon Wood Nature Reserve. It kick-started the planting of many new trees and hedgerows within the Surrey Hills, supported by the community themselves. The event was held as a celebration of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and of the local people who have pledged their support for a sustainable future for the region. Well done to all those involved in this fantastic, first of its kind, event.

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Tarot Card Of The Month Let’s see what December will bring for you

Where Did Tarot Begin?

Before we start talking about the card of the month, let’s dig a little deeper into the history of Tarot. Many people believe that Tarot is something to be afraid of, but this isn’t the case. When they were first created, Tarot cards were used as just another card game. As printing hadn’t been invented yet, each Tarot card was handmade, which meant it cost a considerable amount of money to buy them. Therefore, they were the most popular amongst wealthy families. The universal use of Tarot cards started in the 1700’s, when JeanBaptise Alliette published the first guide to Tarot reading.

How Does Tarot Work?

When imagining a Tarot reader, do you think of a woman in dark robes with candles and a crystal ball in front of her? If the answer is yes, don’t worry, most people imagine this too! However, this isn’t (necessarily) true. In reality, Tarot cards aren’t made to predict someone’s fortune or future, they are merely tools to connect you to your higher self. They are messages from the universe, but it is all down to you to understand and address what they are saying. Tarot cards don’t make any decisions for you, but instead guide you to make decisions for yourself.

How To Make The Most Of Your Tarot Reading

Getting a Tarot reading is a special thing and of course, you want to make the most out of it. First, remember that you don’t have to go into a reading with a question in mind. It is the job of the Tarot cards and the reader to guide you in the direction you are meant to go down. Second, yes or no answers won’t be as simple as you want them to be. Tarot is a journey and it may take a while to come to a conclusion that feels right. Lastly, Tarot is all about you. This is your time and it is up to you to take it. Both the cards and the reader are there to discuss your life, so don’t be afraid to open up, they are only there to help you.

The High Priestess

Now for the fun part, your Tarot card of the month is none other than The High Priestess. The High Priestess is the guardian of the subconscious mind and wants you to know that the world isn’t always as it seems. She symbolises wisdom and shows that December is set to bring enlightenment to you. Now is the time to remain calm so that you can tap into your spiritual side. Access your inner wisdom and use the information that comes to you to connect with your true self. Look for areas in your life that seem out of balance and use that sense of calm to fix them. The High Priestess is a sign that you are on the right path and is calling you to embrace your compassionate and empathetic side. By Pia Louisa

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December 2021 Hot Stars!

Your December Astro Forecast from Astro-Mama Aries

Gemini

Leo

21 MAR – 20 APR

22 MAY – 21 JUNE

24 JULY – 23 AUG

Taurus

Cancer

Virgo

21 APR – 20 MAY

22 JUNE – 23 JULY

Don’t leave home without a Plan B if travelling on the 4th. A total eclipse in your house of mass transit and long journeys could send you down a blind alley. Or you are setting out minus the facts. This house also rules legal matters, learning and mass media - the internet being the one media outlet we all have access to. Eclipses cover up. You’re in the dark and someone moved the light switch. It’s what you’re not being told or can’t see yet that matters. Career moves or even your love life needs careful planning and consideration now. Wait for the New Year to undertake that job search or start swiping. Before the year’s out it’s as if someone turned that light back on or you’ve got a high speed link to hidden truths. It’ll set you free by January, Aries.

Is someone being all precious about something even though it’s the season for giving? (Add a Gollum-like hiss for emphasis!) This can revolve around money, assets, possessions or even those precious ideas and beliefs. Anyway, they’re holding on and refusing to budge or simply not sharing. It’s all theirs and that’s not changing. If you are involved with anything which involves deal making or breaking around the total eclipse on the 4th, the other side may refuse to budge or someone just isn’t about to change their position. Wait until after the 21st if you can. The year ahead expands your horizons via friends and people you meet. You’ve so much support around you now, Taurus, that you no longer have to put up with anyone who isn’t willing to compromise or meet you halfway.

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Does someone make you go ho-ho-ho or ho-ho hmmmmm, Gemini? The total eclipse in your partnership zone on the 4th is all very C+C Music Factory Retro. As in things that ‘Make you go hmmmmm’ feel you don’t have the big picture or that someone is holding something back? What emerges from the shadows are true colours and eventually the truth. Especially if this isn’t the first time they’ve had you hmmmmm-ing along. Expect illumination by the 19th and a big reveal. Single? Not the time to ask Santa for that red hot lover as chances are they’ve gone back to the North Pole by January. And if it’s not right, nothing now will keep you there. From the 21st, you realise you’re more powerful and capable than you’ve been giving yourself credit for. Hopefully those close to you see you in the same light. Next year brings solutions, opportunities and the sheer bliss of expansion again.

As you head towards 2022 you’re in a deep cycle of healing where hearts are mended and you step free of wounds, trauma and heartache. Go with your gut on the 4th when a total eclipse hits your sign on the 6th. Especially when it comes to what your body is telling you. ‘Tis the season to be jolly and as the Sun arrives in your 7th of partnerships on the 21st, that includes someone to be jolly with. That healing could take place via a second time around love as you are one of the signs where kiss and make up under that mistletoe is possible now. The holiday season won’t see you slow down as you’re the gangster of go-getting glory when it comes to tackling those tasks. This sees you ready to kick back and enjoy the holidays before revving it up again ahead of a year designed to take you places, Cancer.

When your ruler the Sun is eclipsed – love, or your signature Leo shine, goes dark. We have a total solar eclipse on the 4th so expect a blackout when it comes to romance, children or what you love to do. Under an eclipse it’s like mysteries take the elevator and the truth the stairs but in the end - both meet on the same floor. Until they do, wait and use caution. Mars in this sector makes for impulsiveness which is the one thing you want to avoid now. And that hot lover could turn out to be so not by January so try to resist jumping them too. Take time for the small things and to find the joy in them. Especially when your Sun moves into your work and daily support structure sector on the 21st. If there’s a joy deficit going on, look at how you can make this right for ‘22. That’s a year which promises release, passion and freedom. Don’t worry - even if that delivery is delayed, the universe has taken note of just how nice you’ve been.

24 AUG – SEPT 3

Love makes the world go round. Love is a many splendoured thing. Love is actually – all around you or will be in 2022, Virgo. Just not right now when it comes to new loves, okay? So, by all means pucker up with your current bae or even kiss and make up with a past one under that mistletoe this holiday season. But that new one? No, no, no. Focus your signature attention to detail on home and family matters as property, lifestyle or those you live with are a blind spot this month due to a total eclipse in this sector of your chart on the 4th. Look beyond the obvious if involved in real estate dealings. Or what’s going on with that close relative, including your children. Don’t ignore those gut feelings. From the 21st onwards you’re fully embracing the holiday vibe and it’s time to skip back to that Christmas past vibe and act like a kid again. Joy to the world and to love for you in ‘22, Virgo.

Libra

Sagittarius

Aquarius

24 SEPT – 23 OCT

23 NOV – 21 DEC

21 JAN – 19 FEB

SCORPIO

Capricorn

Pisces

24 OCT – 22 NOV

22 DEC – 20 JAN

20 FEB – 20 MAR

Take nothing you are told at face value on the 4th and simply question everything. Your internet use and deep fakery are abound due to a total eclipse in your house of communication. You should in fact avoid signing any important documents two days either side of this eclipse if you can. And read the small print. Get expert advice if necessary. Watch where you go on the internet and avoid suss links or files. If you feel someone is not being entirely truthful with you, hold that thought. Yes, the truth is out there Libra. But you may have to wait until it emerges. Especially when coupled with your ruler Venus retrograde right now. Avoid excess expenditure and that lover who appears too good to be true. Whether it’s a bargain or that potential boo it probably is. This is a time to revel in what you have and simply wait for the big reveal when it comes to hidden information or what you should do next. ‘22 brings you exactly what you’ve been wishing or waiting for.

Hopefully ‘21 lets in the light for you in the form of more space and freedom around where you live or that lifestyle. If this didn’t happen yet – don’t worry. ‘22 promises your sign gets to move on up and also lets more love or sees you realising those ambitions, Scorpio. For now however, keep a tight grip on those purse strings as a total eclipse hits your money zone on the 4th. The ruler of this house, Venus happens to be retrograde right now. So, all the more reason not to see this as the season to splurge. In fact, stop and ask if you are buying from the need to fill emotional obligations or that empty space within you. Making a present of your presence, time and love for those you care about could just be sufficient. If there’s a conversation you need to have in the name of love, then wait until after the 21st to have it. By the end of the month, you’ll begin to feel your choices and your world expand again. Deciding to pursue that dream in ‘22 may simply be the best way to spend your resources.

Once upon a time there was light in your life – now there’s only love in the dark. Or so it may appear when a total eclipse of the heart hits your sign on the 4th, Sag. This is a total cover up on an up close and personal basis. A ‘can’t see the wood for the trees’ moment where what you need to know is hidden in plain site but so obvious you overlook it. Take it you need to hold off on new beginnings until at least the end of the month when ruler Jupiter begins to open doors for you and let in that light again. Keep a tight rein on your spending due to Venus which rules your purse strings as well as those heart strings. The same goes for giving away your heart. Don’t. That person may not be worth it. So, what is the remainder of your birthday cycle good for? Planning your big moves for 2022, Sag. Your lifestyle or home life will get an upgrade. And as for you standing out and attracting like a sheer gravitational force – it’s effortless whether it comes to opportunities or that new love.

Happy birthday, Capricorn. As we head towards ‘22 what’s that secret you’re keeping? I have to ask as you could be formulating some ambitious moves for the new year – but are simply not ready to reveal them yet. Keep them to yourself and nurture them like precious seedlings right up until the end of January if necessary. The total eclipse in your house of secrets, hidden truths and mysteries says something big is under wraps. If it’s not your own plans and you have an uneasy feeling someone is withholding the truth from you – know that three things can’t stay hidden for long. The Sun, the Moon and yes, the truth. Watch and wait. You begin your fresh cycle with Venus planet of love and money in your sign. This is also about working on a new version of you behind the scenes. You’re readying now for a relaunch – to dazzle and surprise. You may just test it out to gauge feedback over the holidays. Don’t be your old self. Becoming someone new is the ultimate gift.

Jupiter in your sign should be acting like Fat Santa right up until Dec 28 when it enters your money zone. If you are owed anything – from money to soul satisfying Pay it Forward karma, get ready to receive what you’re due now. You’re going to be on a winning streak from the end of January onwards. The past catches up with you this month and you could be hearing from someone you never thought to again. Especially around the 4th when we have a total eclipse. Just ensure that someone doesn’t have a hidden agenda when they reach out. It’s also time to rework that vision board or list of goals to ensure they remain relevant. Soul satisfaction is on offer this holiday period and you may be focused on what money can’t buy you. Friends, family, connections and the company you keep for instance. As well as the memories you make together. You have an opportunity to reclaim or renew the parts of your past that still resonate and release those that don’t. Head into ‘22 with what truly matters.

If you are on the right path, rewards could be heading your way as ‘21 comes to a close. If not, expect a break free opportunity following the total eclipse on the 4th in your house of career and recognition. But please – guard your public image and don’t indulge in water cooler gossip or speculation. Or the Zoom equivalent in these days of hybrid working. If there are rumours in your workplace, you need to stay silent and watch and wait. This month sees the return of your ancient ruling planet Jupiter to your sign on the 28th. It will deliver solutions, opportunities, expansion and soaring self-confidence in spades. You are set for a once in many lifetimes kind of year - where if you take that first step towards a goal, you will see the universe place so many ‘lucky’ coincidences, synchronicities and people in your path it may seem you are leading a charmed life. Make the most of it now, Pisces. The only limitations may be the ones you tell yourself about what you can have, do or experience. From now until May ‘22 and then again towards the end of the year, it may simply feel like the holiday season all the time. Ho ho ho to you.

Follow Astromama on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.astro-mama.com for in-depth, personal horoscope readings and personal consultations which turn you into a hot star on earth!

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John Altman is best known for playing Dot Cotton’s son ‘Nasty Nick’ in EastEnders from the soap’s debut in 1985 till his onscreen death in 2015. Despite being most well-known for acting (also starring in 1979 hit ‘Quadrophenia’) Surrey resident John has always had a passion for music appearing in various musicals being the frontman for The Heavy Metal Kids. He has just released a 12-track self-penned album called “Never Too Late to Rock and Roll” and is in the process of setting up a new band.

JOHN ALTMAN HOW IS THE NEW ALBUM BEING RECEIVED? Very well actually – a couple of really good reviews. People are enjoying the eclectic mix of songs on the album and are pleasantly surprised - which is pleasing! HOW MUCH INVOLVEMENT DID YOU HAVE IN CREATING THE ALBUM MUSICALLY AND LYRICALLY? I wrote all the lyrics, some of the music and did the percussion on a few tracks like ‘Hallucinating You’ and ‘Eyes to Blue’. ARE THERE ARE PLANS TO TOUR AND GIG AGAIN SOON? Yeah definitely, I did a few gigs this summer but now we’re putting a new band together and we’re going to start touring locally around Spring 2022. Charlie Chandler who has a guitar shop in Hampton Wick is in the band. He’s a fine musician and a great character. WHAT’S YOUR FUNNIEST TOURING/ GIGGING STORY? I was in a punk group and we performed at a private gig in Charlbury – ‘Castaway’ actress Amanda Donahue was our lead vocalist. Unfortunately my bass player found the wine cellar and got out of his brains that night! We played so loudly the cows in the neighbouring field stampeded and the police had to shut us down! DO YOU STILL GET SPOTTED IN THE STREET HAVING PLAYED ‘NASTY NICK’ FOR 20 YEARS – ARGUABLY THE LONGEST RUNNING VILLAIN IN A TV SOAP? Yes still - even though I’ve not been in the soap for 5 years! I don’t mind and just get on with it!

I played a nice character (that hadn’t murdered 4 people in EastEnders) more people might be coming up to me right now! WHAT WAS IT LIKE STARRING ALONGSIDE EASTENDERS GREATS LIKE DAME BARBARA WINDSOR, (YOUR ON-SCREEN ‘MA) JUNE BROWN AND MARTIN KEMP? Dame Barbara Windsor was a lovely soul – we became great friends and I got on really well with Scott her husband. I gave her a lovely hug last time I saw her. As we’re both Surrey residents June Brown and I got on from day one and I still speak to her as often as possible. Actually thanks for reminding me, I’m going to call her today! Martin’s a lovely man and Spandau Ballet are a class act. WHO WAS THE MOST FUN OF THE EASTENDERS CAST TO WORK WITH AND WHY? June was great fun – we had some heavy scenes but we always had a laugh. One time when we came to the end of a scene in the launderette we just carried on adlibbing! We improvised for an extra 3 minutes and the crew were looking baffled as the script had ended – eventually they called “cut!”. Gary Whelan was a good laugh too and we used to do a lot of onset pranks. One time he missed an Italian meal I cooked for him so I posted it to him in a jiffy bag. IF YOU HAD TO TAKE THREE THINGS TO A DESERT ISLAND, WHAT WOULD THEY BE? Margot Robbie for company, The Beatles White album to listen to and The Complete Works of Charles Dickens to read.

WHO ARE YOUR 4 IDEAL DINNER PARTY GUESTS? Stephen Fry, Paul McCartney, David Attenborough and Euro News reporter Anelise Borges. BEST ADVICE EVER GIVEN? Actor Ron Moody said, “If you love acting – just go for it.” I worked my way up from backstage to treading the boards after this single piece of simplistic advice. MOST EMBARRASSING ITEM IN YOUR WARDROBE? Cherry red platform boots – I’ve given them away to a charity shop now though. WHAT ALL THE LADIES WANT TO KNOW, ARE YOU SINGLE? At present yes! WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A WOMAN? Blonde hair, blue eyes, adventurous, tidiness, femininity and a sense of humour please! WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE GROWING UP? A film director. I’ve directed short films but directing a feature length film is still something I’d want to do in the future. WORST HABIT? Impatience can’t queue! IF YOU WERE AN ANIMAL WHAT WOULD YOU BE? One that’s hunted or humiliated probably! But I love water so I’m going to choose a dolphin. FRIDAY NIGHT OUT OR SUNDAY DAY IN? Sunday chill in day for sure.

WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST THING A FAN HAS SAID TO YOU? Someone kept calling me Nick in the Post Office queue. When I said my name was John she said, “I know that Nick!” That made me laugh.

WHO WOULD PLAY YOU IN THE MOVIE VERSION OF YOUR LIFE? Someone very handsome, slim, dark hair and brown eyes (who loves music and movies!) Casting now… please get in touch!

WHAT´S THE BEST THING ABOUT SURREY? So many good restaurants, rivers, parks and stunning views. I recently discovered Leith Hill and love it there.

DO YOU FIND IT HARD (BEING A NICE GUY!) THAT PEOPLE STILL ASSOCIATE YOU WITH NASTY NICK COTTON? It’s an advantage actually because if

IF YOU COULD PERPETUATE A MYTH ABOUT YOUSELF WHAT WOULD IT BE? I was offered a knighthood but turned it down!

WORST THING? The Box junction on the one-way system in Kingston!! Apparently the council made over a million in fines last year.

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SURREY ROCKS DECEMBER ISSUE

Articles inside

60 Second Interview John Altman

Xmas Spectacular Comes to Oxshott

The Watermill Wows Locals

Xmas Shopping at The Packhouse

Ria Elaina – Let the Festivities Commence

Cool Laser

What’s On

Celebrities

Chill In

Xmas Gift Guide

Earthshot 2021

Rock Out

Calendar

Shakira