Riverside Journals Spring 2016 by Riverside Journals

The Riverside Journals

Mayfair edition

Spring 2016 • Edition 42 • Complimentary

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The total look with Sassoon Salon Combining inspiration from Vidal’s iconic collaborations with the rising Parisian Ye-Ye fashion and jewellery designers of the ’60s, TORQUE reinterprets the classic Space Age style and showcases beauty in simplicity to complete “The Total Look.”

Torque Spring Summer 2016 Collection

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“TORQUE demonstrates how the Sassoon design process remains as relevant and revolutionary today as it’s always been,” says Mark Hayes, International Creative Director. “Our precision cut and colour techniques fused with innovative products create a truly custom approach to every detail of hair.”

The Iconic Cut In 1963, Vidal finessed hair down to its absolute basics and went on to create the world’s most iconic haircuts including Nancy Kwan and the Asymmetric Geometric. The graphic lines inspire today’s TORQUE collection with the same purity, simplicity and utility in design. “Good design always remains in demand,” says Bruce Masefield, Sassoon UK Creative Director. “TORQUE highlights the beauty in simplicity and showcases undercutting as this season’s tailoring technique.” Top Tip “To maximise a polished, glossy finish ensure you blow-dry the hair in a downward direction and wrap the hair around the head shape to create a sleek, high-gloss shine,” says Bruce.

Effortlessly Dishevelled This season’s colour technique takes cues from the iconic jewellery house of Cartier as Sassoon translates intricate colour through an incredibly fine “slicing” technique. “We use colour to complement the shape of the haircut and create different dimensions within one look,” says Edward Darley, Sassoon UK Colour Director. “Our colours have a natural looking, fibre-optic iridescence that give vibrancy and shine to a haircut.” Top Tip “What’s wrong, is actually really right at the moment and this look is really easy to achieve,” says Bruce. “Add a small amount of Sassoon Professional Texture Refine evenly through your hair and mould into the desired shape.”

The Instant Update The TORQUE collection showcases the NEW Prestige Colour Service ‘Fusion Highlights’. “The skilful blend of iridescent colours and innovative colour placement creates a customised highlight effect designed to fit your haircut, brighten your style and reveal your unique identity,” says Edward. Top Tip Sweeping side fringes were seen in SS16 shows such as Fendi and Markus Lupfer. “This look works best on hair with very gentle natural movement and adds drama to the classic bob.” says Bruce.

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Features Luxury Motoring We bring you some great performance cars including Lotus’s incredible new 3-Eleven. This can be found at their official dealer Hexagon South Kensington and also their new Finchley site North London. Rolls-Royce, the British manufacturer, celebrates its 110th Birthday in 2016 and introduces to you their coupé and Bentley featuring the new Continental GT V8S which is another option for customers who would like to arrive quickly and comfortably.

Sporting/Polo We have a fabulous Reader Offer with Chestertons Polo in the Park on the 3/4/5th June 2016 – a fabulous day out and please quote Riverside Journals to take advantage of their SPECIAL offer. Still on the polo theme HPC, The London Polo Club, will be celebrating their 90th Anniversary this year in the Polo Season and have events from the 30th May through until September 2016, only eight miles from Hyde Park Corner.

Luxury Homes Harrods Launches – Harrods Home presents ‘The London Edit’, a round-up of the season’s essential interior trends. The distinctive styles of four edits will come alive in the store’s famous Brompton Road windows as well as through room sets across the 2nd and 3rd floors.

Hair & Beauty The total look with Sassoon Salon – TORQUE the Spring/Summer 2016 Collection. Combining inspiration from Vidal’s iconic collaborations with the rising Parisian Ye-Ye fashion and jewellery designers of the ’60s, TORQUE represents the classic space age style and showcases beauty in simplicity to complete “The Total Look”.

Travel

Beaconsfield, Chelsea & Kensington, Westminster, Elmbridge, Mayfair, Henley & Marlow, Richmond and Windsor Journals are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form, either in part or whole without permission from Redbrook Media Limited. Whilst every reasonable precaution has been taken, no responsibility is taken for any service or product featured in these publications or any loss arising therefrom. Articles that have been individually authored may contain personal opinion, thus relevant to the piece, but not an opinion or belief shared by Redbrook Media Limited. The Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisement or article which is deemed unsuitable, prior to publication.

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Abena Bailey takes us on a journey to Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. Join Cornish Pottery Holidays and take your craft on holiday. LetsGo2 tell us all about idyllic island escapes.

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Spring 2016 Issue Dear Readers Step into spring with our April/May editions of the Riverside Journals. We have decided that spring is our favourite season here at team RJ HQ; with snowdrops, daffodils, bluebells and crocuses in mind we have a fabulous issue for you with stunning front covers supplied by the very talented Kamal Mostofi. We met with British actress Amanda Redman MBE and Amanda talked to us about her passion for her own drama school, the Artists Theatre School in Ealing, teaching her skills to young children and adults. Pupils are fortunate to learn and be taught by actors and actresses, visit www.artiststheatreschool. com for more information. For the musically minded, The Rolling Stones have produced their first ever exhibition, the ExhibitionISM, held at the Saatchi Gallery. ExhibitionISM has been described as the most comprehensive and immersive insight into a group, and pans over nine themed galleries and two entire floors. On the spring topic we include the latest spring fashion in coats, five of the best hand stitched shoes for gentlemen and we welcome the Chapar into this issue – personal styling for men – and for the ladies summer eye colours and the power of lipstick to go with the perfect outfit for a day at the races. Luxury venues to visit include the beautiful Fairmont St. Andrews – in a stunning location, also Eastwell Manor Hotel and Tylney Hall Hotel all of which are definitely worth a visit. Happy Reading! Team Redbrook Cover Credits Photographer: Kamal Mostofi, www.kamalmostofi.com Makeup artist: Zydre Zilinskaite, www.zyzimakeup.com Models: Karolina Majoraviciute, Sahimaa Jam, Francesca Miles

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Director – Michele Brooks michele@redbrookmedia.com Editorial – editorial@redbrookmedia.com Editorial Team Jill Menghetti Sarah Coughlan Abena Bailey Anne Noakes Alex Bailey-Staines Richard Lucas Jeannelise Edelston Associate Publisher – Kay Woods kay@redbrookmedia.com Business Development Manager – Tina Moore tinamoore@redbrookmedia.com Business Development Manager – Lynda Foskett lynda@redbrookmedia.com Design – John Dunne design@redbrookmedia.com Production Manager – Karen Rolfe production@redbrookmedia.com Sales Executive – Karen Cousins Karen.Cousins@redbrookmedia.com Sales Executive – Chloe Wainwright Sales@redbrookmedia.com Social Media Coordinator – Susan Bosher Twitter: @riversidej Social@redbrookmedia.com Facebook: riversidejournals

Editors’ Letter

Shades

t began with a 46-capsule cosmetics collection expertly edited by Boutique’s creative consultants Jo Saville and Sophia Price. Firmly dedicated to providing specialist artistry expertise, the make-up artist duo bring a wealth of knowledge on what everyday women want, delivering sought-after shades with strong pigmentation for lasting colour and high quality formulas that don’t crease. After immediate success in stores, nearly two years on the range is still flying off the supermarket shelves. Showcasing the hottest beauty trends and classic wearable shades, the brand developed seasonal limited edition collections, offering ‘of the moment’ beauty essentials, keeping make-up bags and shopping baskets up-to-date and full to the brim.

“When developing the Boutique by Sainsbury’s range, our ethos is to ensure that the shades and products created are of professional quality.” Jo Saville, Boutique by Sainsbury’s creative consultant “All products are high in pigmentation, beautiful to blend and soft to wear, in colours we know will appeal to all ages and work on all skin tones.” Sophia Price, Boutique by Sainsbury’s creative consultant

We’ve rounded up the hottest eye shadow shades this season: Think Nude Give your lids a smooth, flawless look with natural nude tones from Boutique by Sainsbury’s. Create some understated attitude with a sweep of Boutique Turn a Blind Eye eye shadow (£4) or Boutique Forty Winks eye shadow (£4). Worn separately, both eye shadows add natural warmth to any look and, when layered together, create a subtle smokey eye flattering for all ages. Top Tip: Light, neutral tones best complement cool blue eyes.

Blue Mood Bright eye shadow is making a major comeback this season, and one of the biggest colour trends? Blue, like this Out Of The Blue (£4) shade from Boutique.

Twinkle in your eye Nothing shouts glamour more than a set of dazzling eyes, and with the help of Boutique Every Cloud Has Silver Lining (£4) and All That Glitters Is Not Gold (£4) these eye shadow shades will enhance your eye colour. The perfect way to easily take your look from day to night in just a matter of minutes.

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The Basic Rules The basic concept of any eye shadow application is to shape and shade in well blended progression of light to dark colours. Three key points to keep in mind:

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Auctioneers & Valuers Antiques | Jewellery | Watches

The Watch Sale Tuesday 26th April at 11am

Omega lots 214, 199 & 224 featuring in this auction

View auction catalogues online & sign up to bid www.fellows.co.uk The Watch Sale is on view in Mayfair on the 19th & 20th April Call 020 7127 4198 or email london@fellows.co.uk for more information VIEW THE FULL AUCTION CALENDAR WWW.FELLOWS.CO.UK Mayfair Office | 2nd Floor, 3 Queen Street, London, W1J 5PA | 0207 127 4198 Jewellery Quarter Saleroom | 19 Augusta Street, Birmingham, B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131

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A grand old time for all

Insider tips on Gran Canaria for every type of traveller by Abena Bailey

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The second most populated of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is blessed with sunny weather all year round. Although over the years it has suffered at the hands of extensive tourism, it is still a good destination choice when sunshine and high temperatures are top of your agenda and whatever type of traveller you are we have the highlights you shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on.

For the VIPs

For the sporty types

If luxury hotel resorts and designer shopping boutiques are your thing, there is just one place you must head to – Meloneras in the south of the island. This beach resort is flanked by the famous Maspalomas sand dunes and Atlantic Ocean on one side and acres of golfing green on the other. What makes it different to any other part of Gran Canaria is that a set of luxury resort operators have chosen to locate here, thus creating an enclave of sophistication. Seaside Palm Beach Residence, Seaside Palm Beach boutique hotel, Lopesan Costa Meloneras, Hotel Riu Palace, Lopesan Baobab Resort, Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort and Thalasso, Club Hotel Rui and H10 Playa Meloneras Palace sit side by side in this pristine neighbourhood. Gone are the topless bathers, microwaved paellas and fraying store fronts of Playa del Ingles. In Meloneras visit Ralph Lauren, enjoy Argentinian steaks and play golf. Lopesan El Faro Shopping Boulevard is lined with designer boutiques including Lacoste, La Perla and Tommy Hilfiger. Also along this stretch is Moonlight open air cinema, which shows films at sunset and at night while serving pizza and sparkling wine. Top tips Have a decent steak and glass of wine while watching a spectacular sunset at El Churrasco Steakhouse. Enjoy a movie under the stars at Moonlight Cinema.

The mountains, good weather and strong winds on the island make it a great place for three key activities: cycling, hiking and kite surfing. During the early part of the year when it is freezing in the northern parts of Europe, sports enthusiasts head to Gran Canaria for the sun and perfect sporting temperatures, which vary between 23 and 28 degrees C in the south of the island. There are excellent hiking routes and the landscapes are particularly beautiful around the small village of Tejeda in the northeastern part of the island where hundreds of almond trees covering the mountain blossom with pale pink flowers. Tejeda leads to the highest mountain points with amazing views of Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga, which are both geological landmarks. While exploring around them you will find archaeological sites and caves. Cyclists can hire everything they need from any of the main tourist areas; Playa De Ingles, Maspalomas and Las Palmas. The cycling routes and conditions are some of the best in the world and there are routes for all levels. Some challenging tours are offered by Cycle Gran Canaria. During the winter months the skyline above the coast is dotted with kite surfers. The summer months are more suited to first-timers as the temperatures soar and the water is just right for activity without the need of a wetsuit. Pro Surf Gran Canaria in Playa del Ingles provides lessons throughout the year. Top tips Hikers can get off the beaten track by staying in the village of Tejeda. Consider travelling with a mobile home as there are a lot of breathtaking camping spots.

For the Foodies As a foodie you may be hard pressed to find some real decent Canarian eats if you follow the tourist track. Insider knowledge here is key. Gran Canaria has fantastic fresh fruit, vegetables and local produce, such as honey, cheese and almonds at its farmers’ markets. Forget booking expensive restaurants, the real foodie adventure comes from exploring the markets and tasting the cheeses, breads, fruits, wine, honey, herbs and vegetables on offer. You can find anything from custard apples to cactus fruit. The best markets are in the island’s mountainous regions. Market days vary from village to village and a lot of markets close at 2pm. Santa Brigida is open until 8pm on Friday and Saturday and San Mateo also has an 8pm close on Saturday. For Spanish tapas head to Mercado del Puerto in Las Palmas during the evening. The lively food hall has bistros offering local delights. Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 8pm are the best times to soak up the bustling atmosphere. Another gastronomic hotspot is the Vegueta district of Las Palmas where ‘La Ruta De Pinchos’ tapas route takes place on Thursdays, which means many of the bars offer beer and tapas for 2 euros. Top tips Stay in Las Palmas where all the best local food haunts are easily accessible. Sample iberico ham and Rioja wine at El Jamonal Wine Bar in Puerto de Mogan.

For the Pilgrims If landmarks and cultural sights draw you like a pilgrim Vegueta, which is the old district of Las Palmas, is your Mecca. It dates back to the 15th century and is the most important area of the city’s historical heritage. Christopher Columbus stopped over here in 1492 because the island is well placed between mainland Europe and America. Columbus House and Museum exhibits the story in fascinating detail. Vegueta is home to the oldest buildings in the city and houses museums, theatres and tapas bars. It genuinely feels like time has stopped here. From Plaza de Santa Ana main square you can explore the cobbled streets, climb to the top of the Santa Ana Cathedral, visit the Atlantic Centre of Modern Art and Museo Canario as well as a plethora of other heritage sites. Nearby, Arucas is well worth a visit. The town’s Gothic church is a centrepiece to this quaint municipality, which is packed full of boutiques and cafés. It has scores of lanes to explore, pretty gardens and the Arehucas rum factory offers free tours and tastings from Monday to Friday until 2pm. Top tips Visit in late October early November to catch the two days of open air street performances that tell the story of Spanish womaniser Don Juan Tenorio. Religious processions take over the Vegueta streets during Easter and throughout the month of February the whole island of Gran Canaria celebrates the carnival season with parties and processions day and night.

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For the natural beauty junkies One of the first things you will notice on the island is that it is dotted with some of the plumpest aloe vera plants you have ever seen. Gran Canaria is a major grower of the health boosting desert lily so having a spa or beauty treatment with it is an absolute must. The Sheraton Salobre’s Aloe Spa, in Maspalomas, has a ritual that consists of scrub, full body aloe vera massage followed by a glass of aloe vera drink and the Seaside Palm Beach Spa has a package dedicated to curing sun damaged skin using an aloe vera body wrap. The cooling gel inside the leaf treats sunburn, fights ageing and is super moisturising. It is a bit of a wonder plant full of antioxidants so there are scores of beauty products available to buy in specialist shops, markets, spas and even in the supermarket. Many of the supermarkets have good fresh plants for sale while the Aloe Vera Fresca store in Puerto de Mogán, stocks its own top quality products including herbal oils, anti-ageing creams and drinks. Top tips Stay in Meloneras where the luxury hotels have the best spas. Visit Puerto de Mogán and pop into Aloe Vera Fresca to stock up on aloe products.

Luxury pottery holidays in the wilds of West Cornwall

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f you were inspired by the Great Pottery Throw Down or just want to get away from it all for a few days, Cornish Pottery Holidays (www. CornishPotteryHolidays.co.uk) are now running luxury residential pottery holidays at the beautiful and secluded Primrose Cottage on the rugged Penwith peninsula in the far west of Cornwall. This is the spiritual home of British craft ceramics made famous by the likes of Bernard Leach and the perfect place to be learn about the wonderful medium of clay – while enjoying peace and relaxation in exceptional surroundings. Primrose Cottage is a 200-year-old traditional Cornish house with all home comforts, set in a sprawling three-acre garden that is a haven for wildlife. It lies in a moorland valley within walking distance of the breathtaking cliffs and coves of the Penwith Peninsula. The surrounding countryside is peppered with Neolithic stone circles and other ancient monuments, and you can stroll from the house to the remains of Iron Age villages – as well as to a splendid pub overlooking the north coast. Nearby are famous sights such as the mermaid church of Zennor, the old harbours of Mousehole and Lamorna Cove, the World Heritage tin mining area of Botallack (much used in the recent Poldark TV series), and the galleries and restaurants of St Ives. Courses run for five full days and six nights and are designed for all levels of ability, from the experienced potter to the complete beginner. Sessions are for a maximum of six people and are personally taught by experienced ceramics sculptor Caroline Winn, who used to work at the Tate and has run pottery courses for the National Trust, Dulwich Picture Gallery and colleges across London. You will learn about hand building, press-moulding and slab work (as well as throwing on a wheel), and you will get an introduction to glazing. There’s plenty of time and space for individual tuition from the ever enthusiastic and supportive Caroline, and your finished pieces will be glazed and fired in the studio’s kiln for you to keep. Meals at Primrose Cottage are freshly prepared and served in the large kitchen or on the lawn. They use the best ingredients from local suppliers, including the famous fish market in Newlyn, the traditional butcher in Penzance, and nearby Polgoon orchard and vineyard. Expect a house party atmosphere, with comfy sofas, cosy bedrooms, log fires and fine wines. Bring your walking boots, leave your cares behind – and get your creative juices flowing.

More information at www.CornishPotteryHolidays.co.uk, or speak directly with Caroline Winn at caroline.winn2@gmail.com or on 07887 645760.

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Oblu, Helengeli Island

Ozen, Maadhoo

ake a selection of impossibly pure desert islands, add a sprinkling of palm trees, season with sun loungers and a dusting of infinity pools and you’ve got the perfect destination for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday: The Maldives. Made up of around 1,190 coral islands, 90 of which are dedicated to luxury resorts accessible only by seaplane or speedboat, these tropical hideaways tick all the boxes when it comes to getting away from it all. Scuba enthusiasts flock to explore the captivating underwater scenery, whilst above water you’ll find some of the world’s best beaches and the finest hotels and spas in the world. This month we are featuring three of the most popular islands in the Maldives for 2016, all part of the Atmosphere group, which is wellknown for offering higher quality All Inclusive escapes. These resorts offer all the white sand, golden sun and turquoise water clichés you can imagine, combined with well-designed accommodation and an excellent level of service throughout, giving you the perfect setting to create some unforgettable memories.

Idyllic Island Escapes Following a full refurbishment, Oblu by Atmosphere at Helengeli Island opened its doors on 1st November 2015. The resort underwent a full makeover, and steps were made to preserve the surrounding underwater habitats when the house reef was made fully protected. Located only metres away and a definite must see, the crystal-clear waters are home to a plethora of marine creatures including silver-tipped sharks, lobsters and giant sea turtles. The island offers a range of room types, including a Deluxe Beach Villa offering direct access to the sugar-white sands, complete with an outdoor veranda. 7 nights All Inclusive start from £1475pp

Visit www.letsgo2.com or call one of our Destination Specialists on 020 8329 2631 for more information.

The most recent addition to the Atmosphere portfolio is the hugely anticipated Ozen by Atmosphere at Maadhoo which is due to open July 2016. Following multi-million pound renovations, the Ozen resort intends to take the All Inclusive experience up a notch, promising ‘Ultra Luxury’ with the ‘Atmosphere Indulgence’ plan set to be one of the most extensive in the whole of the Maldives. With easy access by speedboat from Male, Ozen is expected to become one of the most popular All Inclusive resorts in the Maldives. Aside from 41 spacious beach villas, the resort boasts 49 swoon-worthy overwater villas on stilts, each offering sweet seclusion. Team this with a blissful spa, tantalising dining options and a range of activities from yachting to yoga, Ozen is set to become the ultimate atoll escape. 7 nights All Inclusive start from £2445pp

Kanifushi, Maldives

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Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives opened in 2013 and has fast become one of the most popular 5-star All Inclusive islands in the Maldives. The stand-alone villas overlook a mesmerising 2km long turquoise lagoon, where snorkelling is a must. Each villa is shrouded by lush tropical vegetation offering plenty of privacy and direct access to the white-sand beach. The Platinum All Inclusive Plan includes a wide selection of premium brands of spirits, wines and exotic cocktails, as well as dining options at a choice of restaurants. 7 nights All Inclusive start from £1949pp

The Home of Golf and So Much More 24 the riverside journals

By Marion Tamburro

airmont St Andrews is a five-star luxury hotel situated on the outskirts of St Andrews in Scotland. As we drove up the winding driveway there stood what looked like a large stately home with over 520 acres of land which has two championship golf courses. Upon arrival we were greeted by a very polite and friendly Scotsman dressed in full Scottish attire. Although the hotel was very busy that particular weekend this man seemed to know everyone by first name. We were shown into the large, recently refurbished, lobby towards reception where we were greeted by courteous and efficient staff whose purpose was to check us into our room. We were then taken to the deluxe suite. This was a magnificently large room, with floor-to-ceiling windows highlighting the spectacular views of St Andrews Bay and one of the famous golf courses. The living area was furnished with comfortable sofas and chairs, and there is internet access in all rooms, the bed linen was luxurious and the beds very comfortable. There are two main restaurants at the hotel, one off-site at the clubhouse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; St Andrews Bar & Grill â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with stunning views over the golf courses and the bay where I had the pleasure of experiencing their delicious sea bass dish. The other restaurant is Italian called La Cucina which is inside the hotel itself and offers a wide selection of seafood, fish and meats all cooked and prepared to very high standards. There is also food available in the form of more casual dining at the sports bar, The Rock & Spindle, and Kittocks Den where I enjoyed a particularly delicious Caesar salad.

Breakfast is served in The Squire, a vast area but with a warm inviting feel to it. The buffet breakfast offers an extensive variety of both hot and cold dishes, and a live egg bar, you will definitely be spoiled for choice. The chefs pride themselves on sourcing locally produced food where possible. There are plenty of places to go walking for those who love the outdoors – around the golf courses or along the seafront, and there is access to the Fife Coastal path from the golf courses that runs through the property from St Andrews right round to Crail. The hotel aims to give parents time to relax too so have a recently refurbished children’s room offering a soft play area, dance machine, and Xboxes for the TeenZone and other amenities to keep them amused, which was always full of little happy smiling faces. Golf lessons for children are also on offer and at meal times there are children’s menus. The hotel offers a babysitting service should you wish to relax later in the evening knowing your loved ones are safely tucked up in bed, or if they are a bit older they can go to the 106-seat in-house cinema. Fairmont St Andrews is being refurbished at the moment, with minimal disruption to the public, they are refitting carpets and soft furnishings which will incorporate some Scottish materials such as tweeds and tartans. In order to avoid Scottish theme overkill they have put up ‘mood boards’ on the walls in reception for anyone to view and give their opinion. A lighting installation called ‘Zephyr’ by the artist George Singer is being hung from the ceiling in the atrium. He has designed a piece of art which gives the illusion of the sea and sand indoors – a splendid design that will light up to give an ambience feel to the inside and will be seen from all directions on the main floor. I look forward to returning when this has been completed and to taking the family to enjoy all that’s on offer.

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+441334 837000 www.fairmont.com/standrews-scotland

Hand vs Hold Luggage

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When packing for a long holiday, weekend away or overnight business trip, you want the best luggage for the kind of trip you are taking. Hand and hold luggage serve different purposes and you should think about which would be best for you. If you are going away for a weekend, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to have to drag a huge bag around with you and if you are going on a two week holiday, you are going to need more space than a small, carry-on bag can provide.

Hand luggage Perfect for a quick work trip, hand luggage allows you to go straight from the plane to your meeting, without having to wait around the carousel in baggage claim, praying your bag comes around. If you are carrying valuable items, it is always best to keep them in your hand luggage as the bag is carried on and off the plane by you, so there is less chance of something going missing. If you are going to be travelling with just a hand luggage bag, you will want to get one that has the maximum amount of space possible. Think of satchel-like bags that have a main space for clothing with a variety of smaller pockets to store all your other little travel essentials. Try to use a bag that is made from soft material, as it is easier to get into the overhead compartments than one made with hard plastic.

Hold luggage Best for longer holidays or moving if you are moving from one city or country to another, hold luggage is easiest if it is a bag that can stand on its own and be wheeled instead of carried. If you are transporting anything breakable or fragile, a bag with a hard plastic exterior is best as the plastic will absorb the shock waves if the bag is dropped, protecting its contents. A good idea is to get a bag that already has a good locking system in place so that you don’t have to buy padlocks for it. You can take a lot more stuff with you in hold luggage, so it is perfect for holidays as you will probably be coming back with more than you left with! If you use hold luggage you won’t have to fight 280 people for that elusive overhead compartment space – chances are they might be full by the time you get on your flight, or the only space available is all the way in the back over 49E and your seat is in 12A (meaning you have to wait until all the passengers disembark to get your bag). Although hanging around at the baggage carousel can be annoying, make sure to tag your bag with something so that you can see it coming around and avoid picking up someone else’s bag that is identical to yours.

Lock your bags It is advised that you lock your bags before you fly, just as a precaution (you don’t want those £1000 shoes going missing before you get to wear them!). Even if you are only travelling with hand luggage, lock the bag as an extra precaution.

Whether you are opting for hand luggage, hold luggage or both, make sure you check the airline’s policies on the size and weight your bags are allowed to be. Different airline companies always have slightly different rules, so be sure to follow them.

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Check size and weight restrictions

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Chestertons Polo in the Park

Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th June 2016 Hurlingham Park, Fulham, London, SW6

The Event Chestertons Polo in the Park returns to Fulham in June as Hurlingham Park hosts the largest and most entertaining polo tournament in Europe. The event is now in its 8th year and has proved an increasingly popular way to entertain clients, colleagues or friends in a relaxed environment whilst watching the Polo – the king of games, the game of kings. Each of the three days offers a completely different atmosphere for the growing crowds, many of whom have never been to a polo event before, so please do pick a day that suits you and your guests to come along and enjoy yourselves at one of central London’s most vibrant and stylish events; Friday 3rd June: International Day with the feature match of England v South Africa Saturday 4th June: Ladies Day presented by Little Miracles Drinks Sunday 5th June: Family Finals Day with pre-event entertainment from Sharky & George

The Action At Chestertons Polo in the Park you and your guests watch from the edge of the pitch where our simplified rules of traditional polo make the spectacular action even more exhilarating for aficionados and newcomers alike; Smaller Polo Field: the action is never far away from the spectator Team Numbers: more chances to score with only 3 players on the pitch The Dash: an exhilarating start and unique to our event 45 Yard Ring: goals scored from outside this line are worth double the points

Reader Offer Chestertons Polo in the Park are delighted to offer readers of the Riverside Journals a special offer when they book packages in 2016. Book any package and receive complimentary Champagne Lanson to share with your guests at tea plus a special discount over the weekend – Saturday 10% off Sunday 15% off. Please quote Riverside Journals when you call 020 7117 8116 or email sales@polointheparklondon.com to book or request further information.

The Official Hospitality Programme has been created to provide a diverse range of options for you, depending on who you are inviting and on which day; Patron: Formal packages for corporate or private groups; on Friday the reception and lunch are served in the Hurlingham Club, which is recognised throughout the world as one of Britain’s greatest private members’ clubs. At the weekend the full hospitality offering is located in the Pitchside Pavilion High Goal: The Pitchside Pavilion provides a relaxed setting with reserved seating for you to spend quality time with your guests Player: An informal offering to suit those who need a place to meet their friends or colleagues to enjoy a delicious bite to eat and share a drink or two

www.polointheparklondon.com/hospitality

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The Opportunity

hawesandcurtis.co.uk Jermyn St • Regent St • Oxford St • Broad St • Cannon St • London Wall • Victoria • Westfield • Kensington

he Chapar introduces a new way for men to get smart and stylish clothing without the hassle of shopping around in busy shopping malls and high streets. Based online, The Chapar is a new menswear retail concept that reaches a new type of consumer with the best, high quality brands, hand selected by personal stylists and delivered when and where you want it. Once registered on The Chapar website, you will become an exclusive member of The Chapar Club. One of their expert personal stylists will then be in contact to learn about your tastes and personal style. The stylist then hand picks the clothing according to each customer’s personal fashion profile, so that the selection is completely bespoke to you. The Chapar then couriers a trunk of clothing to your home or work for you to try on your great new clothes and decide what you want to keep. They then collect the trunk containing the clothes you don’t want and you only pay for what you’ve kept. Aimed at men between 25 and 50, the company realised that many men want to look good and are style conscious but just don’t have the time or motivation to shop (either in store or online). They also discovered that men like to have their clothes buying decisions approved and ratified by another person, particularly their partner (78% of male clothes purchases are influenced by their partner’s opinion). So the introduction of a free personal stylist (which is usually a pretty pricy service) helping to make those crucial fashion choices, means that the customer is able to leave all the details up to someone who specialises in fashion. The retailer stocks brands that are both high quality and on trend with current men’s fashion, including lines from Lubiam, Hartford, John Smedley, Dockers, Emmett Shirts, Sunspel and Polo Ralph Lauren. Giving you access to 70 plus different brands all in one place so that you are spoilt for choice, shopping through The Chapar is a great way to look stylish without the effort. The company, and its suppliers, see themselves as bridging a gap in the market, providing a functional solution to a series of customer needs and issues and opening up the market to new consumers that were previously difficult to reach. No more spending hours in the shops and then having to go back in to return clothes that don’t match your style. The Chapar acts as the middle man for shopping, leaving you with the time to go about your daily life knowing your clothes shopping has been taken care of.

Get Stylish Menswear Without the Effort of Shopping

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TheChapar.com

Five of the Best: Hand Stitched Shoes for Men Who says men can’t be just as fashionable as women? Men’s fashion is all about style and sophistication, and shoes are no different. The best quality shoes (both for men and women) are those that are handmade, be it leather or suede, if it is hand stitched it is the best quality you will find. Handcrafted styles will last you years if cared for properly, so hunting for traditionallymade designs makes sense in more ways than one.

By Sarah Coughlan

From traditional Italian-made loafers to proudly British-made boots, here are five of the best hand stitched footwear for men.

Arthur boot by Dr Martens From Dr Martens’ special ‘Made in England’ range, these boots were created in its original Northamptonshire factory. They are also hand-polished to get that high shine but, like the classic DMs, they’re made using the long-lasting goodyear welt technique and have the same comfy aircushioned sole. You can choose from tan, merlot and black.

Tanino Low Woven Trainer by Buttero

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The Tanino is Buttero’s take on the classic, low profile trainer design, with a silhouette benefiting from their uniquely Italian eye for form, proportion and style. Made from Italian Vachetta leather, they are closed with classic leather lace and are finished off with Buttero’s embossed stamp of authenticity at the heel. Hailing from Tuscany, Buttero is all about traditional Italian shoemaking. Taking its name from an Italian word for cowboy or shepherd in the Tuscan region of Maremma, Buttero is, and has been since 1974, family-run.

Scribe by Bally Switzerland The process to get this made-tomeasure shoe takes multiple fittings and six to eight weeks to make, but it’s well worth it. There are so many styles of this shoe to choose from so there is something for everyone. You can choose from different skins, colours, and even buckles. The Scribe is Bally’s highest-end shoe and is named after the Scribe hotel in Paris, an icon of luxury.

Derby shoe by Moreschi These impressive looking Derby shoes are made from blue woven buffalo skin with contrast welt. With a rubber sole for comfort and strength, they are the epitome of Italian style. Moreschi shoes are manufactured by hand requiring between 250 to 300 steps to get the finished product. Tradition and innovation come together to provide manufacturing techniques which are handed down from generation to generation.

This lightweight lace-up is made from durable canvas and framed in Calf piping to match the tongue and counter. It includes the signature John Lobb rubber sole. In 1851, John Lobb, aged just 22, left his home in Cornwall and walked several hundred miles to London in a pair of handmade boots. Few luxury shoemakers can lay claim to that level of heritage. Although now owned by Parisian luxury giant Hermès, it’s John Lobb’s rich, distinctly British tradition of craftsmanship, combined with an eye for modern design, that makes the brand a leader in the luxury footwear sector.

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Savannah Canvas Oxford shoes by John Lobb

Proudly and exclusively made here in the UK, award-winning men’s fragrance Gruhme emphasises style through simplicity

ounded in 2013, the brand has already seen traction with some major UK names in the hotel sector and fragrance retail market, including the Hyatt Regency and Roullier White. Their most recent fragrance, Gruhme No.14, named for its 14% concentration, carries a more pronounced sillage than their original 10% version, for those preferring more ‘waft’ as they go about their day. Their intricate blend of the citrus top notes married to an enduring woody base and patchouli heart makes Gruhme a truly versatile scent for the modern gentleman. No surprise therefore to see them pick up this year’s best fragrance in the men’s grooming category from Beauty Shortlist in London. The company is going from strength to strength with ever increasing numbers of stockists across the country, from London to Edinburgh. To enhance their fragrance credentials they have released a sublime Gruhme reed diffuser, based on their popular signature scent, as can be seen in several luxury hotels and a Michelin star restaurant. As if that was not enough for this plucky British start-up, just before Christmas last year they collaborated with the Morgan Motor Company, and together they launched a limited edition fragrance of just 1,000 borrowing the iconic Morgan blue colouring. We are expecting to see big things still to come from this brand and see it as one to watch. Think Tom Ford masculinity with Jo Malone British roots and charm. As Gruhme settles into its stride as a distinctive and elegant fragrance business it also has plans to make a name for itself in the wider male grooming market, with a fine gentleman’s shave cream due to be released later this summer, after many months going over the ingredients. We are not expecting performance to take a back seat with Gruhme and certainly expect it to be a benchmarking company over the years.

BRITISH MADE FRAGRANCE FOR THE DISCERNING MALE

WWW.GRUHME.CO.UK 36 the riverside journals

Switch to the urbane. Gruhme. Available online at www.gruhme.co.uk and through stockists on their website.

Connie - £325

Spring Coats Elise - £325

Hope - £395

graceandoliver.london

Tess - £285

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Lyla - £275

01525 270266 info@tillyairers.co.uk ... Adding a dash of visual charm to any room!

01525 270266 info@tillyairers.co.uk

... Adding a dash of visual charm to any room!

How much is that doggy in the window. The one with the pants on his tail. That is Tilly Dog and yes he is for sale.

www.tillyairers.co.uk www.tillyairers.co.uk www.tillyairers.co.uk 01525 270266

TillyAirers_B.631548_1rm.indd 1

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TillyAirers_B.631548_1rm.indd 1

10/03/2015 16:45

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08/05/2015 13:52

Blue Velvet Shoes Blue Velvet, the home of contemporary and Luxury footwear direct from the heart of Europe, Always one step ahead, they have established themselves on their quality and firstrate service.

174 kings road, sw3 4up â&#x20AC;˘ 020 7376 7442 â&#x20AC;˘ www.bluevelvetshoes.com

Beige - the luxury fashion destination for plus size women

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eige was founded with the mission of providing beautiful, flattering designer clothes in larger sizes in a stylish and welcoming environment. “We’re here to ensure that your shopping experience is always pleasant. We stock a comprehensive collection of the latest designer plus size clothing in sizes 16-28. We particularly love beautiful fabrics and we have the most fabulous silks, fine tailoring and knitwear in precious yarns. Whether you’re looking for something special for a formal occasion, casual weekend wear or stylish ensembles for work, we are the one stop plus size clothing shop in London and online.” Starting with one small shop in 2002, Beige’s owner, Leanda, knew she was on her way to making a dream come true. Leanda trained at Harrods and has a wealth of both fashion and retail experience – “I want to give you real old fashioned retail therapy and that includes being loved up. I am sure you all remember the scene on Rodeo Drive with Julia Roberts from Pretty Woman! As a young woman I struggled with my size, even maintaining size 14 was difficult. I always felt so wretched at not being able to purchase any of the beautiful clothes that I was working with. In later years as my curves escaped and I grew to a size 20, the anger I had whenever I walked into a shop or department suitable for my size was palpable. Not only were the clothes on offer, frankly, not at all gorgeous, the environment and overall experience was always so disappointing.” Inspired by the luxury shops in Bond Street and Knightsbridge, Beige offers its customers pretty boutiques, with impeccable customer care, refreshments and an excellent tailoring service. “a good fit is essential” Each shop has a slightly different style but all are treasure troves full of beautiful clothes, from exquisite pieces for black tie and red carpet events to jeans for those off duty moments. The Beige stores also carry a comprehensive collection of cruise wear all the year around. In 2013 the ecommerce site Beigeplus, was launched, giving access to plus size women all over the world to luxurious beautiful clothes in their size. For spring 2016 Beige has put together a wonderful eclectic mix of well-known designer brands such as Marina Rinaldi and Elena Miro, carefully blended with lesser known independent designers from all over Europe. Exclusive to Beige in the UK is NYDJ jeans in plus sizes up to size 28. Leanda has also recently started her own label BEIGE to complement the existing portfolio of designers stocked.

Eastwell Manor

by Karen Rolfe

hat a treat it was to go to Eastwell Manor in Boughton Lees, Ashford, Kent. The Norman manor house, which has been privately owned by the Parrett family for 20 years is an AA 4- Red Star Country House Hotel & Spa and is a must for a visit whether booking a special event, arranging a business conference or just for a luxurious relaxation in beautiful surroundings. Situated in picturesque grounds this hotel offers so much; a 9-hole golf course, spa, tennis court heated 20-meter swimming pools (the outdoor pool opens at the beginning of May for you hardy swimmers!) Entering the main hallway/reception my colleague and I were immediately aware of the lovely lingering smell of the wood fire that we were told burns 365 days a year. We had been invited by chef Neil Wiggins to dine in the Manor Restaurant, a spacious room with beautiful wood-panelled walls and a grand piano in the corner that was played gently all evening. Sergio, the restaurant manager, was very engaging, informative and made us feel very special. The Manor Restaurant offers a Table d’Hôte dinner menu of three courses for £35, a Tasting Menu at £60 or you can choose from their A la Carte. Too many choices we thought, but Neil kindly offered us a surprise menu which we happily accepted. So we waited in anticipation and we were not disappointed. First came an amuse-bouche of scallops with king prawn – delicate in taste and texture – followed by a superbly presented fish course of Halibut in a horseradish sauce with asparagus and broad beans conjuring up sublime flavours. With these first courses we were offered a very nice bottle of Sauvignon Blanc, Secret Coast from New Zealand priced at £33. Sergio then brought us two very large glasses of an Argentinian Malbec which made us think we may be having steak. And we were right. Our next course was a very generous Steak Tornado topped with foie gras served with herbed mash and wilted spinach. The steaks were cooked to perfection – tender and moist with hardly the need for a knife. Dessert was Chocolate Bomb served with salted caramel homemade ice-cream, a perfect combination. Feeling happy and replete we retired to the lounge where we relaxed with coffee and petits fours. In the morning we were able to admire the view of the beautiful grounds from our room. Breakfast had the usual selection one would expect from such a high quality hotel and all sourced locally where possible, Stornoway black pudding being an obvious one not sourced locally but a particular favourite of ours. Guests can just come for breakfast, lunch, dinner or to use the spa and gym facilities without having to stay at the Manor. The grounds of Eastwell Manor are indeed fabulous, so we felt we had to take a walk especially after our hearty breakfast. Strolling around we noticed how perfectly the flower beds, paths and outdoor facilities were maintained. Self-contained cottages converted from Victorian stables in Eastwell Mews can be rented offering the choice either to use the Manor’s facilities or cater for yourself. Each cottage is named after a flower and the front doors are painted to match the colour of the flower. Eastwell has an interesting history, some details of which are reflected in the Manor’s bedrooms which are all named after previous owners or affiliates over the years. Built in the 1600s, it is steeped in creaky floorboards and heavy wooden doors – I wouldn’t be surprised if there was the odd ghost or two lurking, something I will investigate more closely on my next visit.

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Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees, Ashford, Kent TN25 4HR 01233 213000 www.eastwellmanor.co.uk

Springtime

Cocktail Hour Mon - Fri 5 - 7pm Barnes Set Lunch 2 Courses £14.95

Annie’s Chiswick 162 Thames Road, London, W4 3QS Annie’s Barnes, 36-38 White Hart Lane, London, SW13 0PZ

540 High Road, Wembley, Middlesex HA9 7BS T: +44 020 8902 6644 E: info@jackmichaelmenswear.com W: www.jackmichaelmenswear.com

A true reflection of artisans at their best!

SF Collection 4 Highfield, Watford, WD19 5DZ Tel: +44 (020) 8428 2817 Fax: +44 (020) 8421 5622 Email: info@sfcollection.co.uk www.sfcollection.co.uk

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he SF label launched by Sunil & Falguni has taken traditional ideas and transformed each individual piece into a contemporary classic. Our motive as designers is to create something that a woman and man can keep for ever! We aspire for our designs and garments to have the esteem of good crafted jewellery, something they can pass on to generations as the new collection marries classicism with modernity. We position ourselves as a luxury brand, which is accessible to everyone. When a client comes to us, we take into consideration their own sense of style, colour, preferences and use our aesthetic senses to create something that they will love and look forward to wearing on their BIG day. Based in London, SF Collection has a global essence not only in terms of the items it creates, but also the clientele it serves. Wherever you are based we can design and create the outfit of your choice. From understated elegance to show-stopping glamour, our couture collection will have some breathtaking dresses for your special day. In our designs we bring forth the latest of the trends making waves on your wedding day be it a traditional Indian wedding, modern English civil wedding or red carpet reception evening. From colours to styles and cuts, everything is uber-modern. Beautiful lace is an absolutely refined fabric made from finest imported yarns which has a regal feel and look to it. Plain fabric like taffeta, organza or glass nylon has been filled with stories written in splashing and refreshing colours, intricate embellishments with distinct patternsÂ so that you can flaunt a look you desire in the upcoming season.

SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL WEDDING GOWNS AND ACCESSORIES

MIRROR MIRROR COUTURE AND INTERNATIONAL DESIGNERS MIRROR MIRROR LONDON 56 PENTON STREET LONDON N1 9QA TEL: 020 7713 9022

A right royal occasion at the St Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster...

The royal menus are available at the St Ermin’s Hotel, St James’s Park, from the 22nd April, from £35 per adult and £15 per child. To book, visit www.sterminshotel.co.uk or call 020 7222 7888.

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nspired by Her Majesty’s favourite foods and made using only the finest British ingredients, the St Ermin’s Hotel presents an exquisite new, royal afternoon tea service – in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II’s 90thbirthday. From delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones, to wonderfully creative sweet treats, the indulgent St Ermin’s Hotel RoyalTea and kids’ NineTea are beautifully presented with impeccable attention to detail. Served in the opulent Tea Lounge, with its exquisite rococo plasterwork and charming décor, RoyalTea is a truly sparkling occasion. Starting with a simple yet elegant “Going Strong at 90” Chambord and Champagne cocktail, the inspired menu includes such delightful savoury bites as dressed Cornish lobster on mini toasted brioche and home cured “puddle-duck” ham with London piccalilli. Freshly baked scones, with clotted cream and homemade jams, are served alongside a delectable assortment of sweet treats, including The Golden Orb – Scottish shortbread with pistachio and lemon lime curd dome with a bejewelled glaze – and the Crowning Glory is an espresso choux bun with crust and decadent decors chocolat. Little princes and princesses can enjoy a delicious NineTea, featuring some of Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite foods and beloved childhood treats. The creative selection of sweet and savoury delights includes chocolate biscuit cake (served at the Queen’s wedding), strawberries and cream cupcakes and one of Her Majesty’s treasured childhood treats – jam pennies… small jam sandwiches cut into circles the size of an (old) English penny!

THE OAKLEY COURT WINDSOR

WINDSOR’S HIDDEN GEM Experience award winning fine dining at The Oakley Court. Executive Chef Damian Broom delivers seasonal produce hand picked from the onsite Kitchen Garden to create an array of stunning dishes served within a backdrop of understated elegance in The Dining Room. Awarded ‘Chef and Restaurant of the Year 2015’ at the Berkshire & Buckinghamshire Life Food and Drink Awards, dining at The Oakley Court is a must. The Oakley Court, Windsor Road Water Oakley, Windsor, Berkshire SL45UR Tel: (0)1753 609988 www.oakleycourt.co.uk

Waterford Mixology takes an innovative approach on fine entertaining with this collection of coloured and clear crystal stemware, barware and bar accessories. Neon set This set features as its centrepiece the Waterford Mixology Decanter. Its brilliant coloured crystal is accented by neon lime green and unique cut patterns. £240. Also featured: hi-ball tumbler, neon tumbler, clear champagne coupe and clear tumbler.

Coupes and Tumblers The Waterford Mixology coloured Coupes and Double Old Fashioned. Each set of 4 features brilliant cuts and coloured crystal including talon red, neon lime green, circon purple and argon blue making the perfect gift. Each set is £200.

Mixology Tumblers The Waterford Mixology Double Old Fashioned, Set of 4, features unique cuts in clear crystal. £125. This Waterford Mixology coloured Double Old Fashioned, Set of 4, features brilliant cuts and coloured crystal including talon red, neon lime green, circon purple and argon blue. £200.

Argon Set This set features as its centrepiece the Waterford Mixology Decanter. Its brilliant coloured crystal is accented by argon blue and unique cut patterns. £240. Also featured: hi-ball tumbler, argon blue champagne coupe, argon blue tumbler, clear champagne coupe and clear tumbler.

Each item can only be bought separately

www.waterford.co.uk

This set features as its centrepiece the Waterford Mixology Decanter. Its brilliant talon red coloured accents are highlighted by a unique crystal pattern. £240. Also featured: talon red double old fashioned and clear tumbler.

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Mixology Set Red

HOTEL, HAMPSHIRE

HAMPSHIRE’S ORIGINAL COUNTRY ESTATE Tylney Hall can be found sitting romantically in 66 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside. Over the years a painstaking restoration programme has taken place to restore the gardens to their former glory.

GA R DE N A P P R E CIAT IO N D AY Saturday 7th May 2016 Explore our 66 acre estate with formal gardens, lakes and water gardens. Enjoy gardening and photography masterclasses, and a three course lunch in our award winning Oak Room Restaurant. £49.50 per person. Full details of inclusions can be found on our website www.tylneyhall.co.uk

Please telephone Marion Bampton on 01256 745533 or email mbampton@elitehotels.co.uk to make a booking. Tylney Hall, Rotherwick, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 9AZ

01256 764881 | reservations@tylneyhall.com | www.tylneyhall.co.uk

CHATEAU LOU CASTEOU Chateau Lou Casteou TENNIS ACADEMY, Tennis Academy, COTE D’AZUR, FRANCE

Cote D’azur, France

Thurs 7th May – Mon 11th May, 2015 September 7-12th 2016,

Four nights luxury accommodation Enrol now to book your place in the nightsprofessional luxury accommodation in the coaching chateau. chateau.Four Daily tennis

Daily professional tennis coaching sessions. Champagne reception. All meals, drinks,reception. wines and aperitifs. sessions. Champagne Tennis Tournaments and Award Ceremony. Transfers fromand Nice airport. All meals, drinks, wines aperitifs. Price: £1,298 inc. VAT per person, for a private room £980 inc. VAT per person, two guests sharing a room. Tennisor Tournaments andforAward Ceremony. The chateau is also available for private rental

and is ideal for special events, parties and luxurious holidays Transfers from Nice airport.

Price:

Please contact Morag@Loucasteou.com with questions for person, reservations. £1,180 inc. VATand per per www.loucasteou.com

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or £980 inc. VAT per person, for two guests sharing a room. Please contact Morag@Loucasteou.com with

Chateau Lou Casteou Body Tonic Luxury Fitness Retreat October 12-16th 2016 Enrol now to book your place Lose weight and improve your Fitness Level Set in the beautiful French Cote d’Azur countryside, minutes from the sea, this luxurious fitness retreat provides the perfect balance of energetic fitness classes, outdoor activities including coastal and mountain treks, aqua-gym, circuit training, gourmet meals and pampered luxury to help guests improve their fitness level or kick start a fitness regime. 5 days luxury accommodation in the chateau in en-suite bedrooms with sea or mountain views. Fabulous nutritious, low carbohydrate meals and elegant 3 course dinners with wine.

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by Janine Connolly

www.tylneyhall.co.uk 01256 764881

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Tylney Hall Hotel

t was lovely visiting Tylney Hall Hotel at the end of a very busy working week. Built in 1700, it is independently owned and one of a small group of four establishments in the Elite Hotels group. This lovely venue is located in an idyllic setting in the village of Rotherwick, Hook in Hampshire. It has a wealth of history and during the First World War served as a hospital and later in 1948 became a boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; school until 1984 when it closed, re-opening officially in 1986 as a hotel and restaurant. On arrival, our initial comments were about the stunning grandeur of the courtyard entrance within this magnificent Grade II listed building. We soon found out that this wonderful establishment is set in over 66 acres of beautiful grounds and historic gardens, woodland and lakes. It is used as a wedding venue offering silver, gold and platinum packages in their Tylney, Newnham and Hampshire suites which are licensed for civil ceremonies. There are also excellent facilities for business meetings and conferences, private functions and parties and, of course, leisure breaks. A perfect venue and only a 60-minute drive from London. We decided to relax and enjoy a light lunch in the Italian or Grey Lounge, with a beautiful fireplace, where you can sit cozily in the winter, and stunning views over the grounds. Here you can enjoy sandwiches, salads and snacks throughout the day and afternoon tea from 3pm. We were joined for the afternoon by a very dear family friend and were thrilled with the whole experience. We spent a pleasant few hours in this lovely lounge with its attractive furnishings and later joined a tour of the hotel and the leisure facilities. The leisure complex consists of a temperature controlled indoor swimming pool, along with a fully equipped gymnasium, whirlpool, saunas and a snooker room. For that extra pampering a Health and Beauty Suite, consisting of five treatment rooms, a manicure and pedicure studio, offers an extensive range of facial, body and beauty therapies. Venturing outside the complex you will find a delightful outdoor pool screened by vines in the summer months recently voted one of the top outdoor pools by the Sunday Times newspaper, and walled gardens. Other outdoor facilities include all-weather tennis courts and croquet lawn, and an 18-hole golf course that adjoins the hotel. After our tour we checked into our delightful suite on the first floor with our own lounge, large bedroom and beautifully equipped bathroom with stunning views over a raised balcony to the grounds and lake. Just when we thought this experience could not get any better we went to The Oak Room Restaurant for dinner, which boasts the RAC Three Ribbon Dining Award and two AA rosettes and which apparently got its name from the rich oak wall panelling. The dining experience is headed up by the excellent Head Chef Stephen Hine, who has been at Tylney Hall for 20 years and is responsible for the excellent cuisine. After spending some time checking out the menu choices, for starters we decided to share the Goats Cheese with beetroot and the Mackerel! And then for the main course I opted for the Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding, winter vegetables and horseradish. The beef was cooked to perfection, on the rarer side, and was delicious. My colleague opted for the Fillet Steak with spinach and mashed potatoes. Our dinner was accompanied by a glass of the house Champagne. Our meal was superb, first class, Michelin-starred quality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; huge compliments to Stephen and his team! To summarise:Tylney Hall is an excellent choice of venue for all occasions and I cannot wait to visit again very soon.

The Olde Bell is a magnificent 12th century property located in the idyllic village of Hurley in Berkshire. Whilst set amongst beautiful countryside The Olde Bell is conveniently located to the towns of Henley, Maidenhead and Marlow and is just a short walk away from the beautiful river Thames. The Olde Bell is a romantic and unique wedding venue compromising of our historic main inn, our sensitively restored Tithe Barn and our detached Victorian Malt House; which can be hired exclusively for weddings. The Olde Bell can accommodate weddings of a variety of sizes from 10-140 guests and is licensed for civil ceremonies.

Available 7 Days A Week | Private Walled Gardens | Exclusive Use Weddings Available | Outside Marquee Space In Our Malthouse Gardens | 48 Rooms Accommodating Wedding Couple & Guests | Robust, Seasonal, Locally Sourced Food, Some From Our Own Kitchen Garden | Only 45 Minutes From London & 15 Minutes From Heathrow

Our Next Wedding Events Our Open Evening & Spring Fair are the perfect chance for prospective bride and grooms to; view The Olde Bell dressed for a wedding, meet some hand-picked local suppliers and chat with the Wedding & Events Team. Entry is FREE and we would love to see you.

Wedding Open Evening Thursday 31st March 6-9pm

Spring Wedding Fair Sunday 10th April 11am-3:30pm

Wedding Open Evening Thursday 28th April 6-9pm

Wedding Fair Special Offer - Pay your deposit within two weeks of our wedding fair and your TOP TABLE CELEBRATES FOR FREE!* To say “Thank You” for booking with us you will also receive a bottle of Champagne. * Terms & Condition’s apply

For more information and to speak with the Wedding & Events team, please contact us THE OLDE BELL H I G H S T R E E T, H U R L E Y, B E R K S H I R E S L 6 5 L X T E L : + 4 4 ( 0 ) 1 6 2 8 8 2 5 8 8 1 | W W W. T H E O L D E B E L L . C O . U K | E M A I L : E V E N T S @ C O A C H I N G I N N . C O . U K

Temple Golf Club Going from Strength to Strength

fter a fantastic 2015 during which more than 200 new members joined the Club, Temple is looking forward to an even more successful 2016. The Club’s Lifestyle membership scheme offers affordable, flexible and familyfriendly membership and prospective members can choose from a range of usage-based options from as few as 9 rounds through 20, 35 and 52 round packages, to unlimited golf. Course Manager Ben Kebby has been in post for a year and has made a significant difference to the golf course which continues to receive rave reviews locally. Predominantly built on chalk, the course has held up well over the winter months with no course closures and very few restrictions despite the extremely wet weather. As well as undertaking some exciting course improvements during the winter, the Club has also been experimenting with the use of a much shorter course. In part an exercise in exploring the Club’s roots by revealing an underlying short course designed by twice Open champion Willie Park Jnr, but also a first look at introducing greater flexibility on, as well as off, the course. The short course layout means that golfers walk straight off a green onto the next tee only a few yards away and therefore encourages a faster round which may appeal to those looking to squeeze in a round at last light on a summer’s evening, or to those wanting a shorter round on a cold or wet winter’s day. Temple’s Women’s Golf School is now well into its second term and together with regular coaching sessions for juniors, both members and non-members, is proving very popular for those new to the game across a range of ages. Away from the golf course, the Club’s newly appointed Front of House Manager, Francis Pereira, and Head Chef, Stefan Maneran Filip, are each putting their stamp on the Clubhouse offering. Francis prides himself on providing a warm and friendly welcome and Head Chef Stefan has a passion for cooking. The Club has arranged four wine and dine evenings with French, Greek, Indian and Romanian themes ensuring that that there is something to suit all tastes. With the flexibility of its usage-based Lifestyle membership scheme, a great golf course with spectacular views and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Temple combines tradition and heritage with modern thinking, momentum and vibrancy.

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For more information on how you can join Temple Golf Club please call 01628 824795 or visit www.templegolfclub.co.uk/membership.

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Flight Experiences and Introductory Lessons Buy a unique and exciting present for a special person - from £90! White Waltham Airfield near Maidenhead - 30 miles from London- a beautiful and historic wartime airfield with a different aircraft for every occasion.

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‘Loop the loop’ in a Pitts or fly straight and level, go for a 4 seater Piper and take a friend. Experience a wartime flight in the Harvard or the Chipmunk www.wlac.co.uk Visit our bar and restaurant or sit on the lawn and watch the aircraft. White Waltham Airfield is Berkshire’s best kept secret - come and find us… West London Aero Club, White Waltham Airfield, Maidenhead SL6 3NJ 01628823272 wlac.co.uk

Fréjus fulfills your every wish

Yasemen Kaner-White

Founded in 49 B.C. by Julius Cæsar and designated by the French state – ville d’art et d’histoire – a city of art and history, it’s the perfect place to stay while discovering the rest of the Côte D’Azur...

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ixty-five kilometres from Nice and 35km from Cannes and currently run by 28-yearold Mayor David Rachline, Fréjus embodies numerous significant Roman remains, including a theatre, amphitheatre and an aqueduct. The old town of Fréjus houses the Groupe Episcopal buildings, featuring an 11th century cathedral, 5th century baptistery with stunning carved wooden doors – one of the oldest in France, cloisters which have beautifully painted panels and an impressive archaeological museum, as well as the Episcopal Palace. Guided tours are a must. Fréjus is the workplace of many artists; the local authority rents out town centre studio spaces for vastly subsidised rates to artists and craft workers. Their work can be purchased from the plethora of shops, found among the quaint narrow streets. Water babies will fall in love with the nearby stunning sandy seaside, a mere 10-minutes ride from the old town and boasting terrific turquoise waters. Port Fréjus is one of the most modern marinas in the area and less crowded than its neighbour, St Tropez. Base Nature Francois Leotard can be found at the opposite end of St-Raphaël, along the marina, a vast area of public land with yet more beach. Those wanting the excitement of water activities including white water rafting, head to Aqualand Fréjus. With a jam-packed calendar, annual events keep the interest of locals and visitors alike. Top picks would be the Film Festival in the Historical Centre in January, Plants Day in Park Villa Aurelia in April and Festival Theatre in the Roman Theatre Philippe Leotard in August. Every Friday evening during the summer months at 22.30, the Town Council puts on firework displays at Port Fréjus. A good family outing is a visit to the bustling Sunday morning market along the beachfront, with everything from local delicacies to take-away knick-knacks. Adults will have plenty of choice for bars and restaurants when the evening sets in. One of the most popular local clubs is La Playa. A few must-have dishes to tuck into whilst there, include local speciality – ratatouille, fish soups – bouillabaisse and bourride with a dollop of rouille (garlic/chilli mayo) and of course, being along a gorgeous coast – fish, fish and more fish, with a sprinkle of Provençal herbs. Volcanic soil and a Mediterranean climate providing 3000 plus hours of sunshine, with little rain, accounts for the excellent local wines. Finding accommodation is easy, there is a huge range of hotels from 4* hotels such as Hotel Arena or Hotel La Bastide du Clos des Roses (which has an excellent restaurant) to selfcatering apartments, sweet family-run guest houses, or indeed campsites; which are more and more appealing, as we increasingly love to be closer to nature during time away from the office.

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How to Fit Art and Antiques into Modern Interiors A talk by Susie Rumbold

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President Elect of British Institute of Interior Design

The Olympia Art & Antiques Fair 27th June-3rd July

f you want to create really unique interiors that reflect your personality, mixing contemporary with antique is the perfect way to do it. Use contemporary upholstered furniture and modern storage solutions, to give you the comfort and practicality you need to enjoy your home, then layer on older accent pieces to provide craftsmanship and substance and to give your rooms personality. Luckily vintage pieces are quite easy to work into modern decorative schemes. Look out for compact items of furniture, one-off pieces like odd chairs and occasional tables, decorative objects and works of art. Larger pieces of furniture can be hard to adapt for modern use and can dominate smaller spaces so approach these with caution. Similarly, antique upholstered pieces are often not comfortable by today’s standards. Identify gaps in your rooms that could take items of furniture and make a note of what size you can accommodate without crowding the room. Generate well-lit spaces for eye-catching pieces by adding table lamps (either old or new) to provide mid-level lighting. Look for objects in materials and colours that work with your schemes. It can be a good idea to carry a small wallet containing tiny cuttings of your paints, fabrics and other finishes with you when you go shopping, and a measuring tape. Don’t be frightened of introducing an eclectic mixture of styles: you don’t want it all to feel too matchy matchy. Create “tablescapes” for collections of smaller objects, but be objective. If you have too many pieces to display without the result feeling cluttered, put some of them away and ring the changes through the year by alternating what you put on show. For example change the vases that you use depending on what flowers are in season. Beware of having too many small knick-knacks. Fewer slightly larger pieces will have more visual impact, and be sure to balance the groups in terms of height, material and colour remembering that groups of three objects are particularly visually pleasing. When you are curating your own collection, choose the items that please you most, and that work with your chosen colour scheme and try them in different combinations. And when displaying art, feel free to hang groups of works mixing different styles for maximum impact. It can also be worth considering reframing some pieces to give the groups greater synergy. Time acts as a quality filter, so the joy of adding old pieces is that they will be skilfully made, beautiful objects with a sense of history. They provide a visual and emotional connection to the past in a way that modern mass produced items almost never do. The Art & Antiques Fair Olympia – A key event in the global art and antiques calendar. Now in its 44th year, it plays host to a vast array of items from antiquity to the present day. As London’s original art and antiques fair, it offers more choice and diversity of high quality vetted art, antiques, furniture, jewellery and collectors’ pieces than any other event in the British capital. 160 dealers will showcase over 55,000 items with prices ranging from £100 to £1 million and an eclecticism to cater to seasoned collectors, trade professionals and those looking to acquire beautiful and unusual items. A tailored events programme will take place throughout the fair, featuring high profile speakers from leading art and heritage organisations. A Collectors’ Preview, late night openings, champagne bar and specially created menu at the Mosimann’s restaurant all make this a must-attend event.

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Living the Al Fresco Life By Sarah Coghlan

As a nation that only gets great weather for a few weeks out of the year, we take full advantage of the fact as much as we can, from garden parties to simply strolling the shopping streets. When it comes to summer time dining, we almost always opt for the al fresco option. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to love about eating great food under the stars (or sun) with a fresh breeze blowing in your hair?

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The River Thames is dotted with waterside restaurants with both indoor and outdoor tables, which of course get busy during the warmer months, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good bet to pre-book your table or arrive early to get the best seats along the river. Take a look at our picks for the best al fresco dining experiences this summer.

The Folly Riverside dining is epitomised in the creation of The Folly, Oxford’s unique riverside restaurant and boating venue. Whether you are visiting for a quiet meal with the family, drinks with friends, a venue for your special event or a cosy and romantic meal for two, The Folly offers great service, beautiful views and a fine range of wines, spirits and cocktails.

The Perkin Reveller Inspired by Medieval times, this indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar is situated between the Tower of London’s moat and the River Thames. Offering a variety of traditional British dishes and drinks, guests are able to enjoy the iconic London sights with the sun on their backs and a drink in hand.

Riverside Vauxhall The Riverside Bar and Restaurant is an oasis hidden away in the St George Wharf complex on the banks of the River Thames. Boasting amazing views up and down the river and over London’s skyline, it’s the perfect place to spend a long summer afternoon with friends or family. With an outdoor terrace that can seat up to 200, you are sure to get a great waterside table.

OXO Tower Brasserie Al fresco doesn’t have to be at ground level as is epitomised by this restaurant. Their glass-walled, top-floor venue has breathtaking views of the London skyline and River Thames. The best place to be in the city as the sun sets in summer, the terrace allows you to feel like you are dining in the sky above London. From lunch and afternoon tea to dinner and cocktails, summer on the OXO Tower Brasserie terrace, with live music playing in the background, is the place to be.

Côte Located on Kingston’s riverside, Côte serves classic French dining from breakfast through to lunch and dinner. Inspired by new trends in Paris, the restaurant is dedicated to serving authentic dishes with a modern twist. Besides the great food, the view is more than enough reason to visit, with a stunning outdoor patio and glass doors that open up completely so that even those sitting inside can get some fresh air and a view of the river. Spend the afternoon sipping wine while watching the house boats gently floating on the water.

Gaucho Canary Wharf Boasting an amazing riverside location and great food, it is the place to be after work in the summer. With river views and a continental feel provided by the large summer terrace covered by trees, guests can enjoy al fresco drinking and dining while watching the world go by.

The Anglers of Walton A traditionally British pub with some of the best pub dining you will find. It is open all year round but really flourishes in the summer when, in addition to their outdoor seating area, they provide deckchairs, evening blankets and boat rides.

Camden Lock Camden is famous for its diverse street food stalls and its canal, so why not put the two together? Browse the food stalls and choose your meal, from traditional Spanish paella and sangria to something more adventurous like a crocodile burger! Then wander over to the canal where locals sit along the banks sipping drinks and chatting in the sunlight.

On a bit of a budget or don’t want to fight for an outside table at a restaurant? Why not make your own al fresco picnic and go down to your local park. Marks and Spencer and Fortnum and Mason sell some great picnic foods with a wide variety from simple, family picnics to champagne and salmon picnic hampers.

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Al fresco picnic

A Year of the English Garden

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In celebration of one of England’s greatest attractions and to mark the 300th anniversary of ‘Capability’ Brown, Visit England are promoting this year as ‘The Year of the English Garden’. They are going to celebrate England’s fabulous gardens for the whole year.

www.richardlucasgardens.com

Happy garden visiting! Richard

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Images: Richard Lucas

hen you think of an English Garden surely it must be Roses, immaculate lawns and herbaceous borders. Of course it is, but often now it is also all of this with added treats of unusual varieties, botanical rarities and a contemporary twist to traditional garden style. This is certainly how most current gardeners work, and if you visit any garden open to the public on a regular basis one thing that you will notice is that they are not static, gardens evolve, change and bow to certain horticultural trends too, usually set at places such as The Chelsea Flower Show. One garden I have been involved with over the years is the garden, or really gardens, at Lakeside Hotel, which is a multi award winning privately owned hotel situated on one of the more quieter shores of England’s largest lake, Windermere. I say gardens as apart from the main lawn and terrace that are right on the lakeshore, the garden is made up of many much smaller elements that wrap around the hotel itself. This provides opportunity for a great variety of individual spaces, and some ground floor rooms have their own private gardens too, and it’s not just the Hotel that receives the awards, last year the gardens achieved ‘Best Cumbrian Hotel Garden’ from Cumbria in Bloom for the third year in a row. The gardens at Lakeside Hotel really are in an unrivalled position; the front gardens are on the beach and afford excellent views across the lake, and also northwards up Windermere to the mountains over 10 miles away. Having the largest lake in England at the edge of the garden provides a stunning view, but it also creates a microclimate. In the winter when the air temperature drops below freezing the water ends up being a few degrees warmer than the air, and so severe frosts are avoided due to this gentle warming effect which, in turn, enables us to grow some slightly tender plants such as Tree Ferns. I have always planned that the hotel’s gardens should be of interest to all visitors, whatever their level of horticultural knowledge, so throughout the gardens there are more unusual varieties tucked in amongst more familiar ones, for the expert gardeners to discover! The front garden is open and sunny at one end and partially shaded at the other, allowing for a range of different planting styles. In keeping with an English Garden theme there are Philadelphus, Lilacs and shrub roses providing a succession of fragrant blooms through the summer. In early summer Sweet Rocket, Sweet Williams and Foxgloves are all blooming away and are evocative of the quintessentially English images created by Beatrix Potter, who used to live just up the road from here at Far Sawrey. These traditional biennials fill that gap between the dazzling spring display of Wallflowers, Forgetme-Nots and Tulips and the start of the traditional summer and autumn herbaceous plantings. At the sunnier end of the borders there are drifts of Phlox, Geranium, Aster, Cirsium and Helenium, whilst Hydrangeas and ornamental grasses provide structure, and extra summer and autumn colour is provided by tender Salvias, Dahlias and one of my more unusual favourites, Diascia personata. This upright growing Diascia species from South Africa is hardy and grows to about three foot tall, producing its small pink flowers from May to November. In the shadier areas the main lawns are surrounded by deep borders with Japanese Azaleas and Camellias for early colour, with shade-loving Hostas and evergreen ferns adding further interest, and for summer colour several named varieties of Crocosmia are here too, including Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ and ‘Limpopo’. Also planted in the part shade are more Hydrangeas; these do especially well at Lakeside and are quite happy growing under the mature Oak trees. They are a most valuable garden shrub, providing colour for months on end. We have several varieties of Hydrangea that have come from the National collection of Hydrangeas, at Holehird Gardens, near the town of Windermere. Several years ago I created some private gardens for some of the ground floor rooms, and each of these has its own theme. One of these is a ‘Scented Garden’ which is small but packed with scents and aromas from both blooms and foliage all year round; even in the middle of winter there are Sarcoccoca (‘Christmas Box’) and Viburnum bodnantense releasing their fragrance into the air. Daphne, Lilac and shrub roses are the following acts, and throughout the summer the garden is packed with the aromatic foliage of scented Pelargoniums and Lavender. Now to me this is an English Garden in miniature, but move next door and you enter ‘The Subtropical Garden’, where bold foliage dominates and Palm trees flourish. Everything is hardy, of course, and as is usual in these gardens a rarer shrub makes an appearance, the exotic looking Daphniphyllum macropodum comes from Japan and mingles with the lush foliage of Phormium, Magnolia grandiflora and Fuchsia ‘Riccartonii’. Further themed gardens include a ‘Calm Garden’ which is an oasis of green and white, plus an ‘Aromatherapy Garden’. There are a wealth of other gardens to visit in the area; Holker Hall, a historic estate with award winning gardens; Stagshaw, a typical Lake District spring garden; Holehird Gardens, the home of The Lakeland Horticultural Society, and Levens Hall with its famous topiary garden. These are all open to the public on a regular basis, and in addition to these there are also many private gardens that open under the National Gardens Scheme too, making Lakeside an ideal base for plant lovers to explore from, and for this year or next, to discover some of England’s finest gardens.

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Artists Theatre School Principal: Amanda Redman MBE Directors: Julie Legrand (Artistic) Ann Mutlow (Music) Freda Gill (Business) Patrons: Sir Richard Eyre, Sir Ian Holm, Sheila Hancock CBE, Dame Harriet Walter

The Artists Theatre School is a nonprofit-making organisation which was founded 20 years ago by Amanda Redman to pass on knowledge to students of all ages who have a genuine love of drama. Classes are given by professional actors who draw on a wealth of experience gained in Film, Television and Theatre.

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The focus of the workshops for the Junior School, age 5 to 17 years, is on enjoyment and increasing confidence through improvisation, plays, poetry, songs and drama games, culminating in an end-of-year show. The Adult workshops mirror those practised by professional theatre companies. Amanda and her fellow teachers audition for the Adult Course which runs for a year, culminating with Amanda directing a play which is then performed at The Questors Theatre in Ealing.

Michele Brooks and Karen Rolfe meet

Amanda Redman We started about 20 years ago mainly with our own children and it has gone on from there. I feel I just want to pass on my knowledge and experience to the children. When I was young my parents encouraged me to do an Open University Degree in Drama at the same time that I was taking my A levels; a lot of young people are not interested in the mechanics and just interested in becoming famous. I then attended Bristol Old Vic theatre school where I trained and travelled with their Rep company learning on the job. My first film was “Richard Things” with Liv Ullmann.

Can you give a short description of the theatre school? It’s a non-profit-making Saturday drama school for all ages covering from 5-year-olds to adults. The younger children are in the morning but I work mostly with the adults and we have a big show at the end of the year. At the moment we have around 70 pupils which can fluctuate and a large team of excellent drama teachers who are trained actors and prepared to give up their time to be involved.

What is the theatre school best known for and why? It’s had an enormous success rate in getting young adults into the top five drama schools in the country – possibly more successful than other drama schools. When we put on our shows, the audience know that it will be totally professional with proper stage management and backstage staff who give up their time voluntarily as the school is non-profit-making and they want to give something back.

What inspires you to help create and nurture the next generation? The children themselves are the only inspiration I need and I get back so much from them. It gives me so much pleasure to see them develop and grow as confident individuals and I feel the school is one of my greatest achievements.

How long does it take roughly from inspiration to showcase? It takes approximately two terms for the adults with a lot of hard work, and for the junior school it can take up until one year, as the young children are not always there every week.

How do you help students get the work/home balance? I think by showing the students that I give up my own time and still work then they can too, because if you are passionate about something then you will make time. I give up my time and in return I expect a lot from them and I believe that you should lead by example. I say to them, “I was working in the theatre last night/filming and I wasn’t late!”

You have worked with some of the most elite names in the acting industry. Do you get lots of support from fellow actors on a regular basis? Yes, most of the people I have worked with support us especially our Patrons of which we have an impressive list, many of whom have taken part in master classes which takes an enormous amount of work.

What areas do you serve, and what are your future plans for expansion? That’s a difficult one as we have been asked to expand so many times but it’s the commitment as I still work. So it would mean giving up a lot more time and it would be too much, as we are not teachers and also do not want to alienate children from coming to the school, so by keeping it at reasonable costs all can attend.

What is it about your drama school that has made you most proud? I think helping the children who may have been traumatised, who may be shy, and helping them develop into much more confident children is so rewarding. This also helps their communication skills for future jobs and life skills, but by having fun while doing it which is fantastic. A lot of the students have gone on to do well in the industry; it is lovely to see the children blossom and find traits that include courtesy and discipline.

Have any of your students walked through the door and you have immediately thought they have got star quality? Yes, definitely. You can usually tell immediately but, in saying that, it doesn’t always mean that they will be successful because 90 per cent is luck in our industry; discipline is paramount and, of course, fun. Other students blossom over time and then they go on to get the breaks.

Are there many students who have left the school to become a very big name in the acting world? Oh, yes, lots! To name a few: Henry Lloyd Hughes who is starring in “Indian Summers”. Russell Tovey has appeared in Gavin and Stacey and many other series and most recently on Broadway in “View from a Bridge”. Sean Macguire, now an established actor in America who started as a pop Idol then onto his acting career in Eastenders. Howard Charles who recently starred in the BBC series “The Musketeers”.

You must be very proud to direct the end-of-year showcase performance at The Questors Theatre in Ealing. Are you involved as to which agents and casting directors are invited? Oh, yes, most definitely. I practically bully them into it but they are delighted to be a part of this. Sheila Hancock is very hands-on and such an inspiration and a very special lady. Having the Patrons and fellow actors attend is great for the students; they cannot believe that they have been bothered with and that is what makes it wonderful!

Which play are you directing at The Questors Theatre this year? The play I am directing this year with the adult group is “Table” by Tanya Ronder which was performed at the National Theatre a couple of years ago. The play covers over 200 years of the table’s life and the family that owns it. The play will be performed at The Questors Theatre in Ealing at the end of July. The junior school is rehearsing an original play “Old Gods” written for them by Duncan Taylor who has written children’s plays for the Edinburgh Fringe. Basically, Greek Gods decide to get jobs on Earth and arrive to teach in a school – it is great fun and also educational as the students learn about the Greek Gods!

So what is next for Amanda Redman? Not really sure. I have a few things in the pipeline but until they actually materialise – it is a funny old thing when you are young in your 30s you should do everything to gain as much experience, but as you get older you become more choosy with what you want to do and there’s no point if it’s just for the sake of it – only when you really love it!

For more information please contact Freda Gill on 0208 537 1648 www.artiststheatreschool.com

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What motivated you to start the Artists Theatre School and when?

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We all have a dream, for some the dream is to be an actor and the bigger dream is standing on that stage at the Oscars holding that small gold figure in their hand. As we know the reality of that happening is afforded to a small group of people. Therefore for most the actual acting dream is to be a working actor and getting paid to do what they love on a daily basis. That way it never feels like work. The challenge is how to make that happen.

The Reel Scene: Helping the dream come to life… The Reel Scene have come across many actors wanting to pursue a career in acting and who are striving to get into the industry but not sure how. This is where the Reel Scene can help, having identified those actors that have the passion, drive and focus but do not have the insight into what is required, lacking professional headshots and show reels. We provide actors of all standards with the training, tools, and the networking opportunities needed to secure acting work and progress careers. With a 100% success rate to date, all actors have been signed by professional agents and are now being put forward for TV and film roles!

Within a week you have all the tools to make your dream come true The Reel Scene Event is an intensive week designed to take your acting career to the next level. We ensure we put into practice what we teach you! Actors will experience real life auditions, be coached by professional known actors and work on a professional set being directed by a professional crew including a Hollywood director.

The Reel Scene is the Real deal The actors will get an exclusive opportunity to showcase their talent in front of a host of leading industry professionals including agents, directors and well-known actors, for their chance to obtain representation. By the end of the week the actors will leave with first-hand experience of the industry, professional footage for your show reel and headshots, all the essential tools required to launch your career!

Meet people who are already living the dream With special guests, networking opportunities, we are confident you will find the Reel Scene both challenging and rewarding and help you make your acting dream come true. Support someone’s dream today! Join The Reel Scene family and community, book a place on our next event 1st-6th August 2016. For more information visit http://reelscene.co.uk call 0207 849 4525 or email info@reelscene.co.uk

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The Reel Scene:

When first starting out as an actor, it can be difficult to figure out which steps to take in order to turn your talent, knowledge and passion into a viable career. There are so many choices of courses to enroll on, but it can also be a decision about whether to go to university or drama school. Then there are those actors in full-time work wishing they had pursued their dreams.

INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AGED 4 -13 YEARS

OPEN EVENTS Come and see The Mall School, meet the team and tour our state of the art facilities. Let our boys welcome you and show you the school through their eyes.

FRIDAY 6 MAY 2016 9.00am – 11.30am MONDAY 13 JUNE 2016 9.00am – 11.30am

Please email: admissions@themallschool.org.uk to book your place Or call: 020 8614 1082

www.themallschool.org.uk

185 Hampton Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW2 5NQ

Bringing out the best in every boy

Indoor activities From indoor crafts, baking and games, there are tons of activities to do when the rain is falling outside. A great way to keep babies and younger toddlers busy is to make a DIY ‘busy board’ that will keep them interested and improve their motor skills. All you need is a large piece of wood and bits and pieces from around the house that can move, make sound or are interesting textures. Theme the board or just add anything you can find, but make sure the objects you put on the board aren’t harmful or can be pulled off and swallowed. Play dressing up or build living room tents or forts made from boxes and sheets. If you are not shy of a little mess, pull out any kids’ dressing up clothing you have, as well as some of your own clothing you don’t mind them wearing. Once they are dressed up, help them to build a fort and then have teatime in it. Ever seen the movie ‘Bedtime Stories’? Children have wild imaginations, so why not harness their minds and ask them to come up with their idea of the best bedtime story. Write it down for them and ask them to draw a picture to go with it.

Outdoor activities When the sun is out, it is always a great idea to have the kids outside for a couple of hours too. If you have a garden, there are plenty of home outdoor activities to think about, but don’t worry if you don’t have a garden, just head down to your local park and play there instead. Have a treasure hunt in your garden or in the local park. Buy some cheap toys and hide them around the bushes and give your child clues as to where the treasures are hidden. If you are fine with a little mess, buy some safe paints and some white cardboard, get the kids in old clothes and let them express themselves with the paint. Buy some plain pots for plants and ask them to decorate them, then plant some flowers in them together. Play car wash with them. A car wash is probably one of the few chores that can be turned into playtime. Get out the buckets, rags, and bubbles, and let them have fun with it. You can also make a trike and bike car wash for them to get cool with some water splashing on them. All you need is some PVC pipe and a garden hose and you can transform your driveway into a car wash for them to ride through. Reward them for their hard work with a trip to the sweet shop!

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Keep the Kids Entertained this Spring

The warm months are here, but so are those long holidays where you rack your brain thinking of entertaining and stimulating activities for your children to do instead of playing TV games or mindlessly sitting in front of the TV for hours on end. Despite being spring, there is still always the chance of rainy days or days too hot to be outside for very long, so here are some ideas of things to do both in- and outdoors that will keep the kids happy and you sane!

An A level and IB school

Whole school open morning

Sixth form open evening

Saturday, 10th Sept 2016

Thursday, 16th June 2016

9.00am - 12.30pm

6.00pm - 8.15pm

Year 7 open evening

Junior school open morning

Monday, 13th June 2016

Friday, 24th June 2016

6.00pm - 7.45pm

9.30am - 12pm

Senior school recruiting at 11+, 13+ and 16+

Junior school recruiting at 7+, 8+, 9+ and 10+

020 8255 5300 路 admission@kcs.org.uk

n October 2013 while fighting a very rare cancer – Precursor T-Cell Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma – Samuel, my son, started Samuel’s Charity. Samuel lost his battle to cancer on the 22nd January 2014. He was 9 years old. Samuel started his charity because he wanted to give the kids on the children’s wards in St George’s Hospital, Tooting, better food. The meals were awful, lacked choice and were for adults. Very few of the kids ate the food – this is very important as surviving serious illnesses requires eating! Two years on and we have begun to succeed in what Samuel started – a transformation in the food service and menu. The next big success was the WiFi. When we first arrived at St George’s the WiFi for the kids’ wards was expensive and the coverage within the wards was poor. All kids’ wards now have good quality, free access. Other items include seven Accuveins. This is a hand held scanner that shows where your veins are so an injection or cannula is done first time, every time and with much less pain. We have provided a range of other things from specialist sensory equipment to toys, games, electric cars so kids can drive themselves to scans or theatre (a huge hit!), air conditioning and heating units, fulfilling wish lists for individual wards and much more. We help individual kids too – a weekend away or an IPad or Tablet as they cannot afford one and it is so often the only way a bed-ridden child who has very little energy can find some fun and escape. To raise money for all this we do a range of fundraising activities. We have, as a charity team, done runs, obstacle courses (I am in the middle of doing 100 Miles of Mud this year!) charity club nights, skydives, bake-offs and many more events. Often individuals participate in their own event or challenge. The next big one is the Bristol 5K Family Fun Run and Fête on 17th September in Aston Park Estate.

Our future plans We are now a registered charity so are beginning to help hospitals and children around the UK. We know there are many hospitals and too many kids that are in need of support and we will do all we can to help as many as we can – with your help.

How can readers help?

I hope you never know the pain of losing a child, but I hope you do feel what it’s like to be so inspired and humbled by your children. I may have lost Samuel but he gave me so much. Martin, Samuel’s dad.

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Join us in the events like Tough Mudders, skydives, 10k runs, cake bakes etc. Donate! This is how to find us: http://www.totalgiving.co.uk/donate/samuels-charity Come to our 5k family fun run and fête in Bristol on the 17th September at Ashton Park. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/samuelscharity Visit our website at www.samuelscharity.co.uk Contact me at martin@samuelscharity.co.uk

Windlesham INDEPENDENT BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 4 TO 13

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 21ST MAY

Registration at 9:30am followed an individual tour of the school then coffee & presentations from the Headmaster & Director of Studies RSVP - call admissions 01903 874701 whsadmissions@windlesham.com | visit windlesham.com Windlesham House School, Washington, West Sussex, RH20 4AY

Consider the differing types of school. All independent school have strengths which will suit different children. For very bright children there are a number of highly academic, selective schools. For musical or sporty children, there are schools with excellent facilities which offer professional coaching and encourage pupils to put time into these activities. If your child has special educational needs or a disability, he or she will need specific support and there are many independent schools which offer the best provision in the country for this. Make sure you find out about extra support, specialist staff and appropriate facilities. Take note of the wealth of co-curricular opportunity available. Involvement in a club or society will almost certainly form an important part of your child’s school experience so it is worth looking at the variety of opportunities available. You’ll find everything from debating to sailing to Combined Cadet Force and all the options will help add to an exciting, broad and stimulating all-round education. Attend school open days. Because every independent school is different, it is important to attend school open days with your child. These days provide an excellent chance to talk to teachers and existing pupils about what they like about their school. Meeting with the admissions team, registrar or head teacher is also useful. Viewing a school’s inspection reports will also give a good indication of its strengths. When visiting a school on an open day pay attention to the behavior of pupils – are they happy, polite, respectful, well-presented? Do staff and pupils have a good relationship with one another? Does the school have well maintained facilities? How academic is it? Is it selective or non-selective? Will it cater for your child’s talents in music, drama and sport? You should come away from any visit to a potential school feeling impressed but at ease. If you like what you see, arrange an appointment with the head teacher and take it from there. Good luck and enjoy it!

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ndependent schools are at the forefront of educational achievement in every way. They are the most academically successful schools and offer excellent teaching, extensive facilities and an astonishing breadth of co-curricular activities. Over half of ISC pupils’ A levels were graded A/A* in 2015 and over 92% of pupils our schools went on to Higher Education. Parents choose independent schools because of these high classroom standards but also because of what they offer outside the classroom as well as a highly professional approach to pastoral care. Teachers provide an education that is attractive to both parents and children. This is because the independence of our schools means they have fewer restrictions and the freedom to focus on each pupil’s individual needs. With so many great independent schools to choose from and with such strong credentials, here are a few tips on how to make your decision a little easier.

By The Independent Schools Council

How to choose the right school for your child

Journey Senior School Open Morning Friday 29 April 9.00am - 10.30am

of Discovery

Junior School Open Morning Friday 6 May 9.15am - 11.00am

Win Tickets to the Nation’s Favourite Pet Show

The Abbey School, Kendrick Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5DZ

theabbey.co.uk Riverside Journals Spring 2016 - Abbey.indd 1

03/02/2016 13:40:31

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Bespoke design and build treehouses, playhouses and elevated platforms for all ages

he National Pet Show returns to ExCeL London on 7-8 May 2016; an unmissable event for pet lovers, owners and families nationwide, and you can be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets! Get up-close and personal to hundreds of different animals, from small furry creatures in the Burgess Small Furries Zone to aquatic wonders in the Fluval Aquatics Area, feathered friends in the Fluval Animal Zone, handsome stable yard members and exotic species, and not forgetting your favourite felines and fourlegged friends in the popular Hill’s Cat and Royal Canin Dog Zones. Receive top tips and free pet care advice from a host of leading experts including trusted vets, nurses, trainers, behaviourists, breeders, animal associations and charities. Whether you own a pet already, or are deciding which one would best fit in with your lifestyle, find out all you need to know about your favourite animal and learn about each type of pet. Loyal fans of The Supervet will have the chance to see Noel Fitzpatrick as he takes to the stage as part of the Eukanuba Supervet Live Tour. This is your chance to take a front row seat to hear firsthand from Noel as he recounts the latest heart-warming stories from his popular Channel 4 series, and reveals the latest advances in the veterinary profession. The Eukanuba SuperTheatre will also play host to live performances from the canine stars of SuperDogs Live sponsored by Confused.com, an amazing Birds of Prey display plus a spectacular reptile show with the renowned Crocodile Joe! Riverside Journals is offering 5 lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the UK’s favourite pet show. Tickets are valid any day and are limited to one pair per winner. So what are you waiting for? Send name and address to competitions@redbrookmedia.com by the 30th of April 2016.

For more information visit the National Pet Show website: www.thenationalpetshow.com

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Active GOLD COLLAGEN® This makes the perfect gift for any dad who leads an on-the-go lifestyle and likes to keep active. It helps to reduce fatigue, increase muscle recovery and improve joint comfort, as well as helping to make skin look younger. RRP: £35.99 Available from www.gold-collagen.com, Boots and online, Harrods, Selfridges, and www.lookfantastic.com

skinChemists Wrinkle Killer Pour Homme Collection Keep Dad’s skin healthy and wrinkle-free with this three-step collection from skinChemists. The serum, eye serum and moisturiser all work powerfully together to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. RRP: Serum £54.99, Eye Serum £57.99 and Moisturiser £49.20 Available from www.skinchemist.com and www.lookfantastic.com

Ferrari Man in Red Ferrari Man in Red is a fruity scent, with hints of amber. This fruity ambery fougère is an intense and compelling scent: strong, bold, charismatic from the outset, revealing a heart of sweet and tender notes and a distinctive signature that stays etched on your memory. Man in Red makes the perfect Father’s Day gift. RRP: From £39 Available exclusively from House of Fraser

Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Sea Salt Often men are subject to irritations and oily scalps, which could be a result of wearing a helmet, pollution or stress. To combat this, the Christophe Robin scrub is ideal for cleansing and rebalancing sensitive or oily scalps. A gift with a difference! RRP: £39 Available from Fortnum & Mason, Fenwick Bond Street, Harrods, Net-a-Porter, and lookfantastic.com

Christophe Robin Purifying Hair Finish Lotion

Father’s Day Gift Guide

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This Purifying Hair Finish Lotion from Christophe Robin is a no-rinse, low-maintenance hair lotion which is suitable to use on greasy hair. It makes the scalp healthier, light, clean, and helps hair to stay shiny for longer. It also works wonderfully as a toner, and an after-shaving tonic. For men who don’t spend too much time worrying about their hair, or for men who live busy, on-the-go lives, this will make the perfect gift. RRP: £36 Available from Fortnum & Mason, Fenwick Bond Street, Harrods, Net-a-Porter, and lookfantastic.com

The Rolling Stones unveil their first ever major International Exhibition at Saatchi Gallery

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Exhibitionism

6 April 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sept 2016

Image: Rolling Stones Archive

he Rolling Stones will stage their first ever major exhibition at London’s prestigious Saatchi Gallery, opening to the public on 6 April 2016 until September 2016. EXHIBITIONISM will be the most comprehensive and immersive insight into a group described by critics as ‘The Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band’, taking over nine themed galleries spread across two entire floors at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery in London. As well as over 500 Rolling Stones important and unseen artefacts from the band’s personal archives, the exhibition will take the public through the band’s fascinating 50-year history, embracing all aspects of art & design, film, video, fashion, performance, and rare sound archives. At the heart of the exhibition is, of course, the Stones’ musical heritage that took the group from being a hard working London blues band in the early 1960s to becoming inspirational cultural icons adored by millions. Over five decades the Stones have shaped popular culture, often in their own image, and this exhibition will look back through every facet of the band’s career to offer a unique perspective that only the band’s own archive can provide. EXHIBITIONISM will be the largest touring experience of this kind ever to be staged by a band or artist, and continues the proud tradition by the band of groundbreaking innovation combined with the highest production values. EXHIBITIONISM has taken three years of meticulous planning and will offer a comprehensive insight into the band in a way that has never before been attempted. The exhibition is an interactive tour through the band’s vast artistic oeuvre, and includes original stage designs, dressing room and backstage paraphernalia; rare guitars and instruments, iconic costumes, rare audio tracks and unseen video clips; personal diaries and correspondence; original poster and album cover artwork, and unique cinematic presentations. Collaborations and work by the vast array of artists, designers, musicians and writers will be included in the exhibition – from Andy Warhol, Shepard Fairey, Alexander McQueen, and Ossie Clark to Tom Stoppard and Martin Scorsese. Mick Jagger commented, “We’ve been thinking about this for quite a long time but we wanted it to be just right and on a large scale. The process has been like planning our touring concert productions and I think that right now it’s an interesting time to do it.” Keith Richards commented, “While this is about The Rolling Stones, it’s not necessarily only just about the members of the band. It’s also about all the paraphernalia and technology associated with a group like us, and it’s this, as well as the instruments that have passed through our hands over the years, that should make the exhibition really interesting.” Ronnie Wood said, “The scene was great down the King’s Road in the 1960s. That was where you went to hang out to watch the fashions go by. So it is appropriate that our EXHIBITIONISM will be housed at the wonderful Saatchi Gallery.” Charlie Watts added, “It’s hard to believe that it’s more than 50 years since we began and it is wonderful to look back to the start of our careers and bring everything up to date at this exhibition.” EXHIBITIONISM is promoted and presented by Australian company iEC (International Entertainment Consulting) with the full participation of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts and Ronnie Wood. The immersive exhibition will use nine different rooms spanning over 1,750 square metres, each with its own distinctly designed environment, that will show how the band has changed the way we experience rock and roll. The exhibition will start with an introductory ‘Experience’, giving visitors a look back at the high points of the band’s career through a new film, with a high-octane soundtrack. It will then be all the way back to the band’s beginnings and take you on a remarkable journey that made them the Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band in the World. It is planned that following the London exhibition, EXHIBITIONISM will visit 11 other global cities around the world over a four-year period. DHL is proud to be the Presenting Partner of EXHIBITIONISM – The Rolling Stones first ever global touring exhibition.

www.stonesexhibitionism.com www.rollingstones.com www.facebook.com/therollingstones www.twitter.com/rollingstones

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For more information visit:

Be part of our 90th Anniversary polo season May 30 Club Open day – Everyone welcome Mixed Doubles Tournament Final

June 4 Chakravarty Charity Polo – Ticketed Event

ne of the oldest polo clubs in England; HPC, The London Polo Club, is perfectly situated just 8 miles from Hyde Park Corner set in the grounds of the old home farm of the magnificent Ham House, a Jacobean Manor House in the leafy village of Petersham, nestled between the foothills of Richmond Park and the banks of the River Thames. HPC’s grounds are a ‘secret garden’ and a haven from the hustle and bustle of London. It is proud to be the last remaining polo club out of a dozen that used to grace the Greater Metropolitan Area and still retains the warmth and family atmosphere where parents can unwind and children make new friends whilst watching an exciting game of polo. Also potential players can try out the sport under the guidance of our HPA qualified instructors. This year the club will be celebrating its 90th Anniversary having been established in 1926 and there will be a series of events during the season including a themed Roaring 20s Ball and hopefully a 1920’s-style picnic Sunday for both members and visitors where everyone will be invited to dress in the manner of the bygone era. Here are a few dates for your social diary for the 2016 Season. The club’s new website will feature the full list of scheduled events from the start of the season at the beginning of May to the final day on the first Sunday in October. The club runs clinics for all age groups, with an international team of professionals – Will Healy, Charlie Wood, Martin Roman and Juan Cruz Araya – who are available throughout the season should you, your daughter or son wish to learn and experience the adrenalin rush of hitting a ball at 35 miles an hour. You might even catch a glimpse of a practice match when driving through Richmond Park on a warm summer’s evening. The Roehampton lawn was first used by the club in 1926 and featured the second ever game played in England. The Roehampton Cup, one of the oldest played for in the United Kingdom, will see the final of this tournament sponsored by London Square on 21 August 2016. www.HPCLondonPolo.com Polo Office: 020 8334 0000 Administrator@HPCLondonPolo.com Images courtesy of Mark Beaumont www.markbeaumont.co.uk

June 11 90th Anniversary Roaring 20s Ball in aid of Facing The World – www.facingtheworld.net Tickets available via the website and the polo office June 16 Laureus Sunset Polo Charity Match and after party Tickets available via Laureus Sport for Good – www.laureus.com July 16 Pakistan Charity Support Day Tickets available through Eventbrite July 22 FIP 90th Anniversary Event –Ticketed event August 7 Austin Healy Car Owners Club August 13 Alumni/Inner Circle Summer Polo Club Tickets available via Inner Circle August 14 Stagshead Young England under 14s August 21 Roehampton Cup Tournament Finals Sponsored by London Square August 28 MG Car Owners Club September 10 Saraghari Challenge Cup – Ticketed Event Date to be confirmed 1920’s themed picnic with vintage cars –

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Check website for other events and dates

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estling in the rolling hills of The Chilterns is a sleepy little village called Seer Green, only a 35-minute train ride from London. If you want to get out of the rat race and the hustle and bustle of town or city life, I highly recommend paying The Jolly Cricketers, in Seer Green, a visit. They offer bar and restaurant food with a good selection of wines and beers and they hold a variety of special events and live music for everyone to enjoy, and welcome walkers with or without dogs in the main bar – which is worth knowing, too. As is often the case these days most pubs turn their hand to ‘gastropub’ status and serve the posh version of fish and chips or sausage and mash however this freehouse/restaurant can really carry it off. The menu is extensive and excitingly put together and the food is all of very high quality and as locally sourced as possible – I say that as we don’t have many squid in the Chiltern hills, but the crispy Cornish squid, chilli, garlic and soy dip I had as my starter was absolutely delicious. We were having a birthday celebration so there were quite a few of us. I was delighted all the dishes came out at the same time, and at the correct temperature; the service was impeccable and the staff all friendly and knowledgeable. Our waitress recommended the house white after the wine drinkers agreed on a colour, and it was a very good choice and a very reasonable price. The ale and beer drinkers had lots to choose from, too, and they were happy. One of the most popular dishes in our party was the Stockings Farm pork belly with local black pudding, bramble apple purée, coriander potato cake with Bok choi and Yuzu dressing. It looked like a work of art and the taste was so delicious that it was still being talked about the next day! On their website I see that they have been nominated in the Bucks Food and Drinks Awards 2016 for Best Freehouse – we wish the owners Chris Lillitou and Amanda Baker, Head Chef Matt Lyons, Front of House Manager Emily Meeking and all their lovely staff every success. They have already acquired an impressive list of awards – too many to list here! We would most definitely return to this superb pub/restaurant and, in fact, will be looking forward to trying their new acquisition, The Garibaldi, which is in Bourne End, Bucks – another lovely village in the ever-increasing gastronomically delightful area known as the South East.

www.jollycricketers.co.uk Tel: 01494 676308

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REVIV treatments are the future of wellness Dr Mariette Grant has joined the REVIV brand to offer vitamin treatments to the people of Buckinghamshire and the surrounding areas. A fantastic opportunity for the health and image conscious to boost their B12 intake to feel good on the inside which ultimately leads to looking great on the outside. For in-clinic appointments you can visit any of three locations: The Laser Clinic in Cookham, Tanning Lounge & Beauty Clinic in Marlow or Opalus Aesthetics located in Henley-on-Thames. Dr Grant also offers an exclusive concierge service, the REVIV experience can also be brought directly to you, allowing you to relax whilst replenishing in the comfort of your own space. Additionally we work with corporate clients to tailor packages for performance and staff wellbeing.

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Allergy Relief

ur recovery-line of IV treatments are specifically designed to flush out allergens and treat the symptoms. Our ULTRAVIV and ROYAL FLUSH IVs contain electrolyte based solutions with anti-histamines and anti-inflammatory medications to target and reduce the symptoms involved in the immunologic responses with allergies, helping our clients feeling better and increasing productivity. Nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, cough, and wheezing are common symptoms associated with seasonal allergies or hay fever. These symptoms result from an immune response generated by the body when exposed to an allergen. People often experience worsening symptoms after recurring exposure which is typical of most immunologic reaction after repeated challenge from the same agent. Together these symptoms significantly decrease the quality of life and productivity. Fortunately, there are some remedies that range from ingestion of locally sourced honey to desensitize the body from regional pollen to over the counter medications. Now a superior alternative exists in the form of IV therapy at IV bars in NYC, London, Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles and other major cities. Allergies are manifested when an agent, called the allergen, triggers an immunologic response. This occurs in a similar manner when the body fights off an offending infection. The allergen in this case triggers a whole cascade of bodily responses that results in inflammation and histamine release. Together they cause blood vessels in the body to become leaky and spasm of muscles lining the respiratory airway which is what causes the significant itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and wheezy cough that people experience. Treatment typically involves the administration of anti-histamines; however, the concept of hydration and allergen dilution is often de-emphasized. The human body is an evolutionary masterpiece that has developed mechanisms to defend against offending agents for as long as we have lived. The central theme to this mechanism is hydration and elimination of the irritant. Even though the watery eyes and nasal congestion may be extremely uncomfortable, it is the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way to locally flush out allergens and limit further exposure. IV drips are so effective at reducing symptoms because they similarly systemically flush out the allergens and inflammatory mediators from the inside.

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We would like to invite all Riverside Journals readers for a complimentary VISIA skin analysis and Universkin consultation until 31st May 2016** Please contact S-Thetics on 01494 670990 or info@sthetics.co.uk and quote ‘RIVERSIDE JOURNALS’ * S-Thetics are one of the first 5 clinics in the UK to offer Universkin, skincare truly personalised to you and exclusive to Buckinghamshire ** This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions

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How to achieve your facial aesthetics goals

acial aesthetics at S-Thetics covers a broad range of advanced non-surgical treatments designed for the face and body. These include advanced cosmeceutical skincare, innovative technology, and the occasional and subtle use of facial injectables to help you achieve your aesthetic goals for 2016 After a detailed consultation and assessment, we will formulate a customised treatment plan for you with the aim of delivering safe and effective results with little or no downtime. We will ensure you have a maintenance program set in place and will review your results with you to ensure you achieve the outcome you desire. At S-Thetics we believe in a ‘less is more’ approach to facial aesthetics with the aim of making you look and feel the best version of yourself. With our medical director Miss Balaratnam’s extensive plastic surgical background, these treatments are combined with her deep understanding and knowledge of facial anatomy and facial ageing to help you understand and optimise your ideal skin health.

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Step up for Spring Rakhi Shingadia, Community Sports Manager at Better Leisure, offers her expert advice on the best ways to re-activate a fitness programme and discusses the myriad of exercise options available in the Thames Valley. Getting started For many people, Spring signals a time to start getting fit. However it can be hard to decide on the best way to begin exercising after a winter hiatus. A good plan is to pick a few different types of exercise to try. Fun group classes, a gym induction and a swim in the pool are a great way to start.

A varied approach Whatever the exercise path taken, a combination approach is always best so that one kind of exercise complements another. Many exercise classes or sports have multiple benefits. Total Body Conditioning, one of the classes offered at Better leisure facilities, is good for this as it’s a high-energy class that combines cardio and conditioning. Gyms are typically designed to offer a broad range of benefits and Better gyms help to make the most of three types of training – cardio training designed to improve heart health and aid weight loss, strength training that improves balance and posture and functional training, a low-impact option designed to strengthen specific muscles.

New beginnings A tip for people just starting out with exercising is to find somewhere with a wide range of membership options. Dance classes are a great, light-hearted way to begin working out – Better has a range of options for this, from Dance Aerobics which is a great work-out for flexibility, fitness and cardio health to Zumba Gold which is a dance class set to Latin music. In the same way, Pilates is something that can raise the fitness level of someone who is already very fit or can be adapted to help improve mobility for those recovering from an injury. We also have a Buggy-a-cise class and Spring is a lovely time for mums with winter babies to get back into exercising by making their buggy part of their work-out.

Tips for staying on track Different things work for different people but these things can help with staying active: Team up with a friend or someone you’ve met in class. Stay hydrated while you exercise. Set goals that’ll help you stay on track and measure progress. Mix it up – try a different type of exercise every now and then so that you’d don’t get bored and lose motivation. Think about your work-out wardrobe. Some people find a new outfit very motivational.

Please see www.better.org.uk to find out more about your local facilities.

The benefits of exercising are widespread and not limited to improving physical fitness. Exercise is great for both body and mind and the endorphins released when exercising can help to boost mood and combat stress.

Whatever your style, there is something for everyone.

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Hidden benefits

Coach on the Couch

here are many benefits of living in London including the cultural aspects of the city, the entertainment venues, and the many different and diverse activities, events and things to see and do. However, living in any major city is also going to be extremely stressful at times, the stress can sometimes become a significant impact on your emotional and mental well-being. Stress from London living can occur in several different forms. It can include the challenge of being a parent, of maintaining a healthy relationship with your partner, in dealing with challenges in the workplace and in struggling with the high cost of living in the city. Additionally, many people living in big cities often feel alone, isolated and disconnected, without anyone to turn to turn to for assistance in working through life’s challenges.

The Advantages Offered by Psychotherapy To address stress, psychotherapy offers a confidential, private and very safe place to talk to a trained professional about the challenges in life. The psychotherapist will listen to your experiences, emotions, and challenges and work with you to develop a program to help you to learn effective coping strategies to address the challenges and stress in your life. By having a safe, confidential and compassionate professional to talk to you can unburden yourself from the stress. By talking about the issues and emotions that are causing concern, you can free your mind and your body, helping to create a positive mindset and a healthier you. For many people, psychotherapy is an excellent opportunity to bring their work and life balance into harmony. The therapist will work with the client to set priorities and to allow professionals to reconnect with their partners and family that may have been taking a back seat to the pressures and stress of their profession. Additionally, a psychotherapist can help you to discover the beauty all around you. Through encouragement and scheduling, you can find time to view an art gallery, visit a museum or spend time enjoying the healing experience of visiting one of the many parks and nature areas in and around this amazing city.

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www.philippejacquet.co.uk 020 7206 2438

Importance of Talking Therapy

uccessful communication allows us to share our experiences, feelings, excitement, sadness and joy with those around us. When this interaction breaks down, for whatever reason, we can feel anxious, out of sorts and ultimately, often depressed, resulting in many of us visiting our GP, whose time pressures frequently mean that, instead of offering time to talk, they reach for their prescription pad. Talking therapy should be the first resort for maintaining our mental health and resilience. It teaches us an understanding of both our inner selves and how we develop our beliefs about the world, based on our background, culture and life experiences. You will be really listened to and then helped to develop a strategy to help you move forward to a better place. We all have physical and emotional needs that we need met and when we make good choices we flourish and are happy, but bad choices can result in depression and anxiety. To feel happy and content we need to feel loved and valued, this leads to an empowerment and self-confidence from which anything can be possible and everything can be within our reach. Our ability to successfully articulate what we are thinking is crucial for personal growth and development. Talking to friends and family is often all we need, but if you can’t do this, for whatever reason, don’t allow the feeling of being overwhelmed to take over, don’t reach for medication… think about engaging in some talking therapy. A skilled talking therapist will bring clarity and focus, whatever your issues, helping align your values and enabling you to achieve the outcomes that allow you to be content and fulfilled in a completely confidential, non-judgmental and safe space. Remember, no matter how tough life is, you can always make it better. Contact Coach on the Couch, Alex Bailey-Staines

www.baileystainescoaching.co.uk alex@baileystainescoaching.co.uk 07710 328 586

Managing the Stress of Life in London

It’s good for your body and your mind

Spring is here and that means many people pull themselves out of a winter funk and get back into a system of regular exercise. Even those who are able to resist sitting on the couch all winter long have to resort to exercising indoors. As you spring clean your life and put away your winter coats, you may want to throw out your gym membership too. We all know the benefits of getting regular exercise, and working out outdoors could be even better for your health, and your bank account.

It may make you feel better about yourself Many of us feel uncomfortable working out in a gym, especially if you are already a self-conscious person. So you sign up and only go once or twice because it sometimes felt like all eyes were on you and that made you less motivated. When you’re exercising in nature, the local wildlife doesn’t care about your struggle. Exercise in general is good for your confidence, but outdoor exercise may be even better and will motivate you to do it more often.

Outdoor fitness may be easier to stick with Finding an exercise routine that continues to motivate you is difficult, but once you find one that you enjoy, you will naturally want to keep up with it because of the feeling you get while doing it. So that shot of pleasure you get from being outdoors may mean it’s more likely you’ll stick to your program.

Improves energy levels and decreases stress There have been many studies done to prove that there is a clear connection between spending time outdoors and a reduction in stress. Plus, fresh air and increased oxygen helps release the feel-good chemicals that make you happier, and boosts your energy levels. No artificial LED lighting can give you energy like the sun can.

Best of both worlds Not ready to give up your access to those fancy workout machines? You don’t have to choose just one place to go. It is totally possible to find a happy balance between indoor and outdoor workouts. Some workout groups exist entirely outdoors and lots of gyms offer seasonal classes outside. It has become clear that mixing up indoor and outdoor sessions is a great way to keep exercise exciting and, most importantly, fun. Even if you are not able to do strenuous exercises, get outside in the fresh air by taking a walk down your street or in a park to get your dose of vitamin D and stimulate your endorphins.

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The Benefits of Outdoor Exercising

We work out primarily for the physical benefits, but in this day and age with our lives being run by technology and machines, getting outside and away from these things will do wonders for your well-being too. Getting out in the sunlight increases your body’s intake of vitamin D, improving your immune system and increasing endorphins throughout your body, making you feel happier. Running outdoors instead of on the treadmill also means you work harder without realising it. The turning belt of a treadmill means the machine is doing some of the work for you. When you run outside, you provide the movement, and due to air resistance you will increase your workload from 2 to 10 per cent.

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Have you been noticing increased hair loss when washing, brushing or just on your hands? Is your hair thinning? Do you have an itchy, flaky scalp? There is no need to suffer in silence seek expert help and advice, and make a difference.

Performance cars

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erformance cars come in many forms these days, and the modern version is much more accessible and approachable than some of the raw and iconic machines from years gone by. Britain is leading the way in the realm of cars that offer a combination of sublime power and supreme luxury, meaning that power need not come with compromises in terms of comfort. But, as with the best high-end suits, automotive luxury comes tailor-made these day, and there are endless possibilities to make these performance cars your own. Rolls-Royce, the British manufacturer that celebrates its 110th birthday in 2016, is one of the premier exponents of this combination. The Rolls-Royce Wraith is perhaps the best example of having it all. The £235,416 coupé comes with a 6.6-litre V12 engine that takes the Wraith from 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds and boasts a power output of 624bhp, making it the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever made. This power and pace is all wrapped up in a car that offers sublime levels of luxury, with the softest leathers and hand stitching sitting alongside fine woods and a high level of technological specification. One such highlight is the Satellite Aided Transmission, which uses the car’s GPS system to read the road ahead and anticipate the driver’s next move based on the car’s location and the current driving style. It then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain ahead. Its rear-hinged coach doors offer something genuinely different to the norm. Rolls-Royce is not the only manufacturer that is offering access to performance without compromising luxury, with the Bentley Continental GT another option for customers that want to arrive quickly and comfortably. The Continental GT V8 S is, like the Wraith, a four-seat coupé and its 4.0-litre 520bhp engine is just as quick, with 0-62mph coming in just 4.5 seconds and it can keep going until a top speed of 192mph. The £149,800 Continental GT V8 S is an ultimate long-distance cruiser, and allows a high level of personalisation that allows you to take your pick of colours, materials and more, inside and out the car. Both brands can be found in London in an appropriately prestigious location, with the two showrooms sitting side-by-side in Berkeley Square in Mayfair as part of the long-established H.R. Owen group. H.R. Owen has seen a high demand for this combination of power and luxury, with marketing manager Tom King saying: “Many of our clients are seeking a blend of exclusivity, luxury and comfort but don’t want to compromise on performance and speed. These cars give all the opulence anyone would wish for, with the performance of a supercar.” Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London 15 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6EG Tel: +44 (0) 20 3308 9134 Jack Barclay Bentley Sales 18 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6AE Tel: +44 (0) 333 240 1587 www.hrowen.co.uk

stablished more than 50 years ago, Hexagon Classics is one of London’s premier classic car dealers operating from two showrooms in the capital – boasting an impressive stocklist of ultra-exclusive period performance cars. Just arrived at the company’s South Kensington mews location is a 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Touring, one of only four produced worldwide in the eye-catching combination of Olive Green paintwork with a black leather interior. With 1,580 made in total, it’s one of the rarest examples of a Porsche that many believe is the finest 911 ever made. The subject of a recent full restoration, including a complete rebuild of its 210bhp 2.7-litre flat six-cylinder engine, the car is in concours condition. Moving right up to the present day is Lotus’ incredible new 3-Eleven. As Lotus’ official London dealer, Hexagon is offering the new flagship supercar at South Kensington and its Finchley site in north London too. The 3-Eleven is Lotus’ quickest series production car ever with a 450hp supercharged V6 engine and a 0-60mph time of less than three seconds. Production will be limited to 311 models and with prices starting at £82,000, it’s also the most expensive Lotus ever. Currently undergoing a major renovation, the Finchley site will, by the end of the year, boast a restaurant with a menu from a Michelin star chef, a coffee bar and a men’s lifestyle store. Not to mention space for over 50 of the world’s finest cars. Hexagon Classics 6 Kendrick Place, Reece Mews, South Kensington, London SW7 3HF Tel: +44 (0) 207 225 3388 www.hexagonclassics.com

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Classic cars have become immensely desirable over the past five years as values for certain rarified models have rocketed, delivering healthy returns for owners.

The London Motor Show returns to the capital

Stephen Maitland-Oxley, Events Director at London Motor Show says: “We’re thrilled to have The London Motor Show in the capital. It’s a hugely exciting time for everyone in the automotive industry and there’s an exciting buzz amongst all the exhibitors. For visitors, there’s something for everyone; as well as admiring the latest cars and listening to inspiring guest speakers, there’s a huge range of activities available for children and the whole family to enjoy – making this a must-attend event for all. We look forward to seeing you there.” The general early bird admission ticket is £15 from 6th-8th May and children under 10 go free. For more information visit www.thelondonmotorshow.co.uk/

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his year sees the return of The London Motor Show to the capital. From the 5th-8th May 2016, Battersea Evolution will play host to the ultimate, must-attend event in the automotive calendar. The show kicks off on Thursday 5th May with an exclusive preview evening where HRH Prince Michael of Kent will cut the ribbon to open the Show. During the three days that will follow, some 35 car brands and 130 models will display some of the very latest vehicles, costing anything from £8,000 to over £200,000 to cater to everyone’s pocket. A healthy selection of some of the world’s most well-known and renowned manufacturers will be included including Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Ferrari, Ford, Volvo, Mini, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, BMW and Jeep together with unique supercars to be seen in London for the first time. A fantastic line-up of honoured speakers will take to the lecture theatre stage throughout the duration of the event, including Sir Stirling Moss, Tiff Needell, Ben Collins, Nigel Mansell and Afzal Khan. All of your burning automotive questions will be covered as those who know best discuss topics such as hybrid and electric cars, design and innovation and campaigning for the new safety initiative called ‘Stop the Crash’. For visitors there will be ample opportunity to rub shoulders with some of these legendary names during book signing sessions and whilst they test drive cars during the show. The exhibition is designed with families in mind with fantastic activities and games on hand to keep everyone entertained. Children and parents alike can experience what it’s like to be a racing driver in the TOP GEAR simulator where original BBC HD footage is used to showcase the full force of acceleration, slick gear changes and phenomenal braking. Fans of the racing game, Project CARS, can take the opportunity to try it out using a VR (Virtual Reality) headset and experience life in the fast lane.

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Start Fresh this Spring Spring is here and there is a fresh feeling in the air. Most of us give our houses a general quick clean a couple times a week, but not often do we get down and dirty and really clean from ceiling to floor. We have gathered a few tips to help you give your home a deep clean to make it feel bright, airy and new.

Don’t rush it Not even small apartments can be spring cleaned in one day. Choose a weekend or a couple of days in the week if you have the time. It may seem like a daunting task that you would rather rush through, but once you are done you will feel great about all the work you put in.

Be systematic Try to be organised with the way you clean. Either clean room-byroom or choose one task, like washing the windows, and do that task around the house till all the windows are done, then move on to a different task like clearing out all the closets.

Don’t overlook small spaces From window frames and sliding door tracks to skirting and ceiling fans, make sure you clean these too, even though they are usually out of sight. Sliding glass door tracks probably aren’t the first spots you’d think to clean, but you’ll appreciate having done it before the outdoor entertaining season gets into full swing. Try scrubbing the tracks and other small spaces with an old, dry toothbrush to loosen debris, then use your vacuum to remove it. Finish with a wet sponge and they will look good as new.

Move furniture You may not normally think to move your bed while you wash or vacuum the floors, but during your deep spring cleaning, move everything from beds and sofas to desks and coffee tables. Dust and dirt can get trapped anywhere so make sure you don’t miss those places where dust builds up.

Give up the junk Throughout the year we will collect things in our home, from old clothing and unused trinkets to magazines and stacks of mail. As good as it feels to bring things into our homes, it feels just as good to let go of things we don’t need. Go from room to room looking for five things you can easily let go, like expired medicines, old magazines and clothing that you no longer wear.

Get organised We start out each year planning to use all those life hacks we see on Pinterest and Facebook, and sometimes do use some of them, but it usually quickly falls away as we get along with the hustle and bustle of daily life. Pick up bits and bobs that don’t have a home in your rooms and get some containers to store them in. Organisation hacks are great ways of keeping your house de-cluttered.

In this country, you’re lucky if you have a decent sized garden, so look after it just as much as you look after your house. No matter the size of your garden, make sure any grass you have is cut, weeds are pulled out and the area is generally tidy. Feeding your plants a spring tonic, like compost or fertiliser, means more blossoms and healthier plants when summer comes.

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Gardens are just as important

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Make moving day easy – and benefit local charities too

oving home can be an exciting and memorable time, but the process of actually moving your possessions from your old home to your new one can also be stressful. John Watson, Managing Director UK Services of Royal Warrant holders Abels Moving Services, gives some tips about advanced planning that could help to make the run-up to and your moving day easier. Plan early; once you decide to move and put your house on the market, research and contact moving companies – at least three accredited and approved by the British Association of Movers. Visit them unannounced to get a feeling as to how they will manage your move. Tatty trucks and warehouse will often transpire to tatty work practices! Home survey; for a full house move, a sales representative will visit to chat through your requirements, check the access for large removal trucks and assess the items. A professional company will mould their services to suit your needs. It is recommended that the same person meets each company to avoid conflicting instructions. Identify sentimental and high value items; so that the surveyor can advise how they will protect them and take notes for their removal team so that special care is given on moving day. Professionally pack everything/owner packing/part packing?; ask yourself whether you want the movers to take care of the entire move (while you maybe take a holiday). You may prefer to do some things for yourselves, such as packing personal clothing or paperwork prior to the moving day. Packing materials; if you prefer to pack some or all cartons yourselves, the moving company can supply suitable packing materials. “Beware of buying low-cost materials from the internet,” warns John, “as these are often inferior quality unsuitable for being stacked up 10ft high in a truck and often the quantities will not suffice, resulting in you needing to re-order more!” Dismantling and reassembly; remember to spray bolts on outdoor items with WD40 well ahead of time, and label to allow for easy re-assembly ensuring that nuts/bolts are kept together in a safe place or loosely tightened. Storage needed?; if you gain buyers quickly and before you have found your new home, discuss with your mover going into their storage facility. Check that they have on-site security and fire prevention in place at their warehouse. Insurance required?; for moves within the UK, your home contents insurer may cover you, for moves to Europe and internationally your mover will provide comprehensive cover. Please be wary of extended liability insurance as this can leave you in a battle over who was to blame should a claim arise. Delivery to your new home; look at the access and advise your removal company, they may do an access check if necessary. Charity donations for unwanted items; Abels has a brilliantly simple solution to this difficulty. They will collect the items free of charge and pass them on to two charities close to the company’s heart, the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and The Big C Charity, for sale in their charity shops. These must be in good condition e.g. ornaments, books, china, glassware, furniture and some white goods. Upholstered furniture must have fire retardant labels. As John Watson says, “Everyone benefits from this kind of recycling. Our clients do not have to worry about disposing of their unwanted goods, which instead of being taken to landfill, the charities benefit financially from selling and giving them stability.” EACH, whose Royal Patron is HRH The Duchess of Cambridge, is currently working hard to raise £10 million to build their fourth children’s hospice. The Big C Charity has 10 charity shops in Norfolk and Waveney, raising money to finance drop-in centres across the area, supporting people affected by cancer. Abels also supports the East Anglian Air Ambulance which depends on donations to provide a 24-hour helicopter emergency service. John Watson summed up the company’s philosophy by saying, “We believe that giving something back to the wider community is very much part of being a successful company today.”

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Sunrise recognises companionship in all of its forms.That’s why we offer a range of couples’ suites specially designed for older people, often with differing care needs.

Our introductory visit to your garden focuses on your needs and includes an hour's consultation. For £145.00* one of our award winning horticultural experts will meet you in your garden and make recommendations on using mature plants to increase your privacy, optimise your enjoyment of the garden, as well as enhancing your home. *(plus VAT)

So not only do you get to enjoy everything that sets Sunrise apart, including our round-the-clock personalised care, beautiful homelike setting, and five inspiring activities every day, you’ll also get to enjoy it all with the person who means the most to you.

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Timeless Luxury

a huge gallery of slabs to allow you to choose the stone that will suit your home in indoor comfort. The rest of the ground floor is a dedicated kitchen showroom featuring stoneCIRCLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s granite and quartz worktops on top of contemporary German and solid oak handmade English kitchens. There are top end brand appliances such as Neff, Wolf, Gaggenau and Sub Zero on sale. Chesney stone fireplaces and solid fuel stoves are on display and available to order in both showrooms.

More information on stoneCIRCLE can be found on www.stone-circle.com/stone-to-life by ringing 0333 003 0632 (calls charged at local or standard network rate) or by emailing sales@stone-circle.com

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atural stone adds a touch of luxury to homes and has been used since Roman times to make bathing special. Whether you prefer to soak your cares away in a bath or blast them with a power shower, a stone bathroom can add to the experience. Cool marble vanity tops teamed with tiles and bath surrounds and perhaps a marble basin, tumbled travertine for that livedin feel, or limestone shower trays to match the limestone tiles and basin. Quartz and marble composites can also be used where more uniformity is required. Stone is not only stylish and versatile it is extremely durable, needing only a little care and attention to last years. stoneCIRCLE has been making stone products in its state-of-the-art Basingstoke factory since 1968. With the exception of tiles which tend to be standard sizes, everything is made to order in the stone of your choice and to your specification. The company is an approved fabricator for many of the leading types of engineered stone, such as Silestone and Q-Stone, giving a huge choice of composite quartz as well as granites, marbles, limestones, onyx etc. It has two showrooms: one in Newbury and one on the A339 near Basingstoke with examples of kitchen, bathroom and other items in different stones. The Newbury showroom also has

Farrow & Ball’s key colours for the home this spring represent different aspects of our lives and the way we choose to live them.

Key colours for spring 2016

amed after the indispensable dust sheet used by painters and decorators, Drop Cloth is a charmingly uncomplicated neutral which creates walls that feel soft and familiar. Drop Cloth is a step away from the cooler greys that have dominated contemporary homes over the past few years, being more sensitive to the natural world and reflecting outdoor space. The colour can be used in any combination with neutrals such as Shadow White and Shaded White, either on walls or woodwork, to create a scheme that feels delightfully earthy. It is also much enhanced by combination with the delicate shades of Oval Room Blue and Setting Plaster. Inspired by the chiffon gowns traditionally worn by ladies when brushing their hair in boudoirs, Peignoir is the softest of pinks with a big dose of grey which makes it feel serene and sophisticated. It is best combined with Great White on the woodwork as this duo of uncertain pinks creates a perfect harmony. When used with Dove Tale on floors and moody Inchrya Blue as an accent it becomes more exciting, creating a wilder, rustic space. Yeabridge Green, the colour created from an original colour found in an 18th century Georgian farmhouse in Yeabridge, Somerset, is a clean and uncomplicated green, with definite earthly undertones. Despite being powerful in colour, its natural tone makes it very easy to live with. Yeabridge Green can be used as the stronger shade in tone-on-tone green colour schemes, creating a sophisticated and confident feel. Try using Yeabridge Green on walls with the glowing neutral Lime White on woodwork and its perfect partner Cooking Apple Green as an accent. For a bold, fun scheme, combine Yeabridge Green with Incarnadine and Hague Blue; these three strong colours will create intense impact in any space. Salon Drab, Farrow & Ball’s new muted drab, can be used to evoke a classic 19th century feel while remaining the perfect go-to ‘chocolate brown’ for modern homes, The colour has rich natural tone, which feels exuberant and luxurious, while working as the perfect dark accompaniment to both the yellow and red-based neutrals. Combining Salon Drab with the glowing cream of Ringwold Ground on woodwork will help create a feeling of calm. However, if you wish to attract more attention, the inclusion of botanical Calke Green or the rich burgundy Eating Room Red will create an indulgent scheme with appealing warmth.

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Charlotte Cosby Head of Creative Farrow & Ball

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Making sure you don’t get “burnt” when replacing windows

For example, in instances where there is, say, a top hung, opening out, fanlight window above a large fixed pane in an existing bedroom, any replacement window will need to be of a different design in order to comply with the Building Regulations, and thereby provide a means of escape. Either the bottom section needs to be made into one large opening, or the window will need to be completely redesigned. The temptation to save money by replacing an unsafe window, with an equally unsafe window (as the less the number of openings, the cheaper a window costs to buy) should be outweighed by the risk of putting lives in danger by not providing the means of escape the law requires. Not only could such selfishness and thoughtlessness lead to injury and death, but also to the property owner being sued by remaining relatives, and/or their local authority, if they are able to prove that lives were put a risk through non-compliance with the Building Regulations. If you are considering replacing a window or windows and would like a no obligation assessment of whether or not the replacement window design you have in mind should comply with the Building Regulations or not, why not call the replacement window experts at Hazlemere Window Company for their opinion, as they have been designing, manufacturing and installing replacement windows for over 30 years. Visit the website for information about energy rated, energy saving aluminium and UPVC double glazed and triple glazed replacement windows.

01628 879244 www.hazlemerewindows.co.uk

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f you are a property owner, or know one who is considering replacing windows, it pays to be aware of the current England and Wales Building Regulations, as UK home owners can get their fingers badly burnt by either a) not bothering to find out what they must do to comply, or b) knowing the regulations. The Building Regulations in relation to safety and fire egress are there for everyone’s safety, including all those who visit or live in your household. An example of non-compliance would be to allow a replacement bedroom window to be fitted without a sufficient enough opening to allow a person out, and/or a fireman with an air bottle in, as it is possible such a non-compliant window in fire could be the cause of someone getting trapped on the inside and dying from smoke inhalation or incineration by fire. To comply every replacement window should have “an unobstructed openable area that is at least 0.33m2 and at least 450mm high and 450mm high”, plus “the bottom of the openable area should be not more than 1100mm above the floor”. As the Building Regulations make clear “with increasing height more complex provisions are needed because emergency egress through upper windows becomes increasingly hazardous. It is then necessary to protect the internal stairway. If there are floors more than 7.5m above ground level, the risk the stairway will become impassable for occupants of the upper parts of the dwelling house is appreciable, and an alternative route from those parts should be provided.” The important thing is to apply common sense so that, in the event of a fire, there is means of escape from any room, on whatever floor.

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Except it wasn’t. Are we teetering on the brink of 2008 all over again? Well I believe that the Asian economies are having their own version of 2008. I predicted this in early 2014 which is one of the reasons why, for the last two years, I have been dissuading clients from buying in most of the new build developments (due to their over-reliance on Asian investors). Of course, the fear is that what is happening in Asia, and China in particular, could be contagious. The indicators I use are pointing to some interesting outcomes. If you would like to receive further information on this and a complimentary copy of my report, The Properties To Avoid Buying in 2016, please email veronika@mercuryhomesearch.com quoting LRE or call 0800 389 4280 (or +44800 389 4280 from outside the UK) and quote LRE.

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The Big Lie About Property & The Stock Markets

Politicians, central bankers and other busy bodies like to think that they can control markets and global economies but history suggests that they have absolutely no idea what they are doing. A point that was rather neatly made by Her Majesty when she visited the London School of Economics in 2009 and asked, “Why did nobody see this (the Great Financial Crash) coming?” Quite simply, economies are not engines that can be tinkered with. It is impossible for a room of civil servants to control them. So let’s look at some numbers and I mean massive numbers. The following is courtesy of Savills’ latest residential property focus: $6 trillion – the value of all the gold ever mined. $55 trillion – the total value of global equities. $217 trillion – the total value of worldwide real estate. These figures help explain a point I have made before but (nearly) everyone refuses to believe: Property prices are rarely affected by share price movement and when they do correlate it is because land prices have moved rather than vice versa. Quite simply the banks are far more exposed to land than they are to equities. The situation we faced in 2008 was precipitated by a land price crash which then led to a house price crash, bank defaults and subsequent rise in unemployment as money evaporated. To oversimplify a complex issue, the price of land had been driven up to such levels that it was impossible to be profitable. Ironically, economists and city analysts got this completely wrong. If you read commentary in the press from c. 1998 to 2005 the commentary was mainly bearish. Then hubris kicked in and there was talk of a new paradigm: We had a “goldilocks economy”, Gordon Brown had abolished “boom and bust”, the only way was up!

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Show Boat Opening Saturday 9 April New London Theatre

Hop on board the Cotton Blossom and be swept away by one of the most romantic musicals of all time. Daniel Evans’ acclaimed lavish new production of the 1927 groundbreaking show by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II sails into the West End direct from a hugely successful run at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre. Set in America’s Deep South at the turn of the 20th century, it tells a powerful story of freedom, loyalty and love. Featuring the timeless songs Ol’ Man River, Make Believe and Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man, its themes are as vital, passionate and moving as ever. 166 Drury Lane WC2B 5PW, 0844 412 4654; showboatmusical.co.uk

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What to see Where to go selected by Jill Menghetti

How The Other Half Loves Until Saturday 25 June Theatre Royal Haymarket

The first major West End revival of Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious tale of social graces and matrimonial mishaps boasts a starry cast, including Nicholas Le Prevost, Jenny Seagrove and Tamzin Outhwaite. As Bob and Fiona clumsily try to cover up their affair, their spouses’ intervention only adds to the confusion. William and Mary Featherstone become hopelessly stuck in the middle, falsely accused of adultery and with no idea as to how they’ve become involved. The plot culminates in two disastrous dinner parties on successive nights, shown at the same time, after which the future of all three couples seems in jeopardy… 18 Suffolk Street SW1Y 4HT, 020 7930 8800; trh.co.uk

Wellbeing in the Royal Parks Until Wednesday 14 September Royal Parks Foundation Education Centre London

Did you know you can escape the hustle and bustle of town, and enjoy wellbeing sessions and guided walks in the beautiful Royal Parks? These events are specifically designed to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Private gardens in the heart of Hyde Park are the peaceful setting for yoga, zen through healthy eating, mindfulness and Pilates. Walking tours include an early morning dawn chorus walk on Sunday 8 May and an evening bat walk on Friday 20 May. There are also nature talks, family learning and discovery days, something to inspire all ages. Hyde Park W2 2UH, 020 7036 8040; SupportTheRoyalParks.org/experiences

Regent Street Cinema London Just a two-minute walk from Oxford Circus, this beautifully restored cinema is the perfect place to catch a movie. Its heritage and history is as fascinating as the eclectic old and new classics on its constantly changing programme. It was the first UK venue to show a moving picture to the public in 1896, and the first to show an X-rated movie in 1951. Currently offering free membership, it’s ideal to while away a few hours whether you enjoy a good matinée classic or a contemporary blockbuster. Kids’ Kino Club runs every Saturday morning, showing recent releases and old favourites. 309 Regent Street W1B 2UW, 0207 911 5050; regentstreetcinema.com

Until Monday 31 October Stanley Spencer Gallery Cookham Berks

This new exhibition is crammed with glorious depictions of the natural world by the great 20th century painter, Sir Stanley Spencer. It includes exquisitely executed flower paintings, garden vistas and landscapes, forming breathtaking panoramas along the walls. These are interspersed by figurative and spiritual scenes set against further natural world backdrops. Make a day of it by visiting all that’s on offer in Cookham, Spencer’s own beloved “village in heaven”, where he lived and worked for most of his life. You can enjoy riverside walks, a quaint High Street with boutiques, and lovely food in high quality village hostelries. High Street Cookham SL6 9SJ, 01628 471885; stanleyspencer.org.uk Picture: Magnolias, 1938. Courtesy of Sotheby’s ©The Estate of Stanley Spencer

Open Air Theatre Season Friday 13 May - Saturday 17 September Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre London

This season opens with the theatre’s largest-scale project ever: Running Wild, a new adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s story about a boy called Will, an elephant called Oona and a tsunami… This co-production with Chichester Festival Theatre has a cast of 40, with puppetry design and direction by Finn Caldwell and Toby Olié, previous associate puppetry directors on War Horse. The new programme in the magical and intimate park setting has something for everyone. Running Wild is followed by Henry V with Michelle Terry as the king, Jesus Christ Superstar, and the 2013 sell-out production of Pride and Prejudice. Inner Circle Regent’s Park NW1 4NU, 0844 826 4242; openairtheatre.com

Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair Tuesday 19-Sunday 24 April Battersea Evolution London

These fun and relaxed fairs run three times a year and bring together 150 exhibitors from the UK and Europe offering a wealth of unusual period design, 20th century classics and eccentric accessories, mixed with lovely antiques. Also on sale are works of art from the ancient to the contemporary, including sculpture, paintings, prints and photography. The spring event is a great place to find garden decoration such as planters, urns, statuary, stone benches and metal tables. Marking the Queen’s 90th birthday, the foyer display will have a royal theme, with pieces relating to the Royal Collection, palaces and homes. Battersea Park SW11 4NJ, 020 7616 9327; decorativefair.com

The Richmond May Ball Friday 13 May Richmond Green Surrey

Held in an imposing marquee on the green the night before the traditional May Fair, this is the most prestigious event in Richmond’s social calendar. Some 400 local and celebrity guests are treated to a lavish champagne reception, a four-course gourmet dinner and a quick-fire auction of exciting prizes followed by dancing the night away to a live band. The glamorous black tie event habitually sells out, so would-be guests are advised to get in touch soon to secure their places. This year the well-deserving charity beneficiaries will be the Victoria Foundation and the Holly Lodge Centre. Richmond TW9 1LX; richmondmayball@gmail.com

A Midsummer Night’s Dream: A Play for the Nation Tuesday 17-Saturday 21 May The Barbican London

This is part of the nationwide tour to celebrate Shakespeare 400, with Royal Shakespeare Company professionals performing in each location with local amateur performers. In London, members of the Tower Theatre Company play Bottom and the rude mechanicals, while east London schoolchildren form Titania’s fairy train. The beguiling comedy takes us on an adventure in which four young lovers find themselves wrapped in the arms of an enchanted forest where sprites lurk and fairies rule. There’s a feuding fairy king and queen, and chief mischief-maker Puck is on hand to play his tricks in games of fantasy and love. Silk Street EC2Y 8DS, box office 020 7638 8891; barbican.org.uk

RHS Chelsea Flower Show Tuesday 24-Saturday 28 May Royal Hospital Chelsea

Thousands of hand-knitted and crocheted poppies, inspired by the Tower of London poppy display, will greet visitors at this year’s perennially popular show, as a tribute to those who served in all wars. The theme for 2016 is the health and wellbeing benefits of greening-up our grey spaces, with plenty of ideas for visitors to take home to their own gardens. In the Great Pavilion more than 100 specialist plant breeders, nurseries and societies will create wonderful floral exhibits with plants at the peak of perfection, and of course there will be an amazing range of spectacular show gardens. Royal Hospital, London SW3, 0844 338 0338; rhs.org.uk

Jackie The Musical Tuesday 7-Saturday 11 June New Wimbledon Theatre

A recent divorcée looks for advice in the problem pages of her old Jackie magazine annuals and revisits the dizzy world of the teen bible from a time with no mobiles, no online dating and no Facebook. With her ex and a handsome new guy in tow, the valuable lessons she learnt as a girl begin to influence her future and she discovers that the one person in control of her life is... her. This promises to be a fun and feisty night out, accompanied by a soundtrack of classic 1970s hits, with original choreography by Arlene Phillips. The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1QG, 0844 871 7646; atgtickets.com/wimbledon

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Stanley Spencer: Visionary Painter of the Natural World

Conchord Festival Friday 10-Sunday 12 June St Mary’s Church, Twickenham Riverside

This exciting new event brings worldclass chamber music to run alongside the Twickenham Carnival. Including a fun family concert on the Sunday afternoon, it features prestige performances from the London Conchord Ensemble and special friends James Redwood, Roderick Williams and Duncan Ward, and actor Simon Callow who will narrate Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale. The acclaimed ensemble was formed in 2002 by husband and wife Emily (oboe) and Daniel (flute) Pailthorpe with the pianist Julian Milford. Since then, the group has built a glittering reputation across Europe, New Zealand and Emily’s native USA, tackling everything from Bach to contemporary music. Church Street TW1 3NJ, 020 7976 5041; conchord.co.uk/conchordfestival

Fashion Rules Restyled Current exhibition Kensington Palace London

This hugely popular exhibition has been restyled with iconic new dresses from the collections of the Queen, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. Their wardrobes show how they each negotiated the rules of dressing fashionably while in line with their royal duties. Fashions of the day are reflected, from Princess Margaret’s 1950s New Look glamour, the Queen’s 1960s and 1970s elegance, and the tailored drama of outfits created for Diana in the early 1990s. Tickets include access to the palace, gardens and Victoria Revealed, an exhibition telling her story and including personal objects and works of art.

What to see Where to go

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Kensington Gardens W8 4PX, 0844 482 7799; hrp.org.uk

Hampton Court Palace Festival Wednesday 8-Thursday 23 June Tudor Court Hampton Court Palace

Tickets sell out fast for these annual evening concerts in an intimate and beautiful setting. As usual there’s something for all tastes; this year’s star-studded line-up includes Tom Jones, Van Morrison, Katherine Jenkins, Art Garfunkel, George Benson, Caro Emerald, Jools Holland and Anastacia, plus an evening of fanfare and fireworks with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. You can take your own picnic and relax in the gardens before the show, visit the open-air bars and gourmet stalls or pre-order a luxurious festival picnic. For even more indulgence there are exclusive VIP packages with dinner in the sumptuous state apartments. Hampton Court, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU; hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com

Shakespeare in Art Until Sunday 19 June Compton Verney House Warwickshire

Fancy a day out with a difference? Head for this art gallery in a Georgian mansion set in a park landscaped by Capability Brown, nine miles from Stratford-upon-Avon “where art meets nature”. A major new exhibition marks the 400th anniversary of the death of Shakespeare whose plays have always been a vital source of inspiration to artists. It includes works across the ages, from George Romney, Henry Fuseli, Rossetti, John Singer Sargent and GF Watts to Karl Weschke, Kristin and Davy McGuire and Tom Hunter. There is also a sound score and readings by leading Royal Shakespeare Company actors. Compton Verney CV35 9HZ, 01926 645500; comptonverney.org.uk

Harrods Launches Harrods Home presents ‘The London Edit’, a round-up of the season’s essential interior trends. The London Edit will comprise of four styles: the Shoreditch Loft, the Chelsea Townhouse, the Notting Hill Villa and the Hampstead House.

The distinctive styles of these four edits will come alive in the store’s famous Brompton Road windows, as well as through room sets across the Second and Third Floor, allowing discerning design lovers to live all four of the different styles across Harrods Home department. “Two years on from the relaunch of Harrods Home, we are so thrilled to be able to highlight the breadth the interiors offering across the second and third floor with these four trend-led edits, which not only feature beautiful furniture and home accessories from the most luxurious classic and contemporary design houses, but exclusive launches from brands such as Kelly Wearstler and Anglepoise, as well as Matthew Williamson’s vibrant , fashion-led collaboration with Duresta.” Annalise Fard, Director of Home at Harrods

Shoreditch Loft The Shoreditch Loft will feature iconic pieces from renowned leather brand, Poltrona Frau - who will be launching at Harrods as part of the London Edit – alongside an exciting launch from quintessentially British lighting brand, Anglepoise, as well as SS16 collections from Mud Australia and contemporary linen brand Society Limonata, to create an aesthetic which is chic, urban and epitomises the concept of loft living.

Chelsea Townhouse For the first time, the lifestyle collection from U.S. interior designer Kelly Wearstler will be available in the UK, as she launches her contemporary interiors range exclusively with Harrods, leading the Chelsea Townhouse edit. Celebrating an aesthetic which fits perfectly with Wearstler’s collection; the Chelsea Townhouse’s neutral colour palette is juxtaposed with metallic and marble accents from brands such as The Marble Tree and Anna New York.

Notting Hill Villa The Notting Hill Villa has been styled to reflect the ideals of British bohemia. Matthew Williamson’s first ever bespoke furniture collection takes pride of place thanks to his collaboration with British sofa manufacturer Duresta. The statement mid-century style upholstery showcases exclusive fabrics fusing a vibrant colour palette with botanical-inspired motifs.

Hampstead House The Hampstead House, contrastingly, is based on the ever-stylish colour palette of white and blue, playing on elements of the traditional London home, with contemporary twists you might not expect. Dining chairs by Sé London - a visionary British design brand committed to couture-style collaboration - as well as unique furnishings by Mood, Flexform’s oh so relaxed sister brand, sit alongside heritage homeware brands to create an eclectic aesthetic.

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“At Harrods, lovers of design are able to move across the Harrods home and furniture departments, living different styles from brands who, while their aesthetics vary hugely, all value craftsmanship and the provenance of each and every one of their products. Many of our brands offer Harrods customers the opportunity to create an individual piece or even an entire look which has been truly bespoked to their tastes, their very own ‘Edit’!”

‘The London Edit’

Chelsea Townhouse

Notting Hill Villa

Hampstead House

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Dressing for a day at the races

By Sarah Coughlan

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ace day is just as much about the fashion as it is about the actual races, so dressing up in your best fashionable outfit is required! There’s nothing like a race day to let your style shine and for you to enjoy the chance to dress up, and although almost anything goes in the race day fashion world, there are a few simple rules to follow to help you achieve that fabulous race day look. Dress accordingly. Ladies, you are not going to a beach party or for a night out at a London club, so make sure you dress for the occasion and the weather. The races are all about class, so don’t have your skirt too short, wear heels you can’t walk in and have too much flesh on display. Adhere to the dress code. While there is a more strict dress code at the big races like Royal Ascot, The Epsom Derby or The Grand National, dress codes are generally a little more relaxed at other venues, with smart casual being the order of the day. At the Royal Ascot where the rules are very strict, strapless, halter or spaghetti-strap dresses are banned. Straps must be wider than an inch and dresses and skirts must be at least knee-length. Hats are necessary in the Royal Enclosure and Grandstand. Fascinators are forbidden, as is any headpiece with a base of less than 4 inches (10cm). Think about the day to evening transition. One of the great things about going to the races is that you can wear those fun outfits that you can’t figure out what to do with. But be sure to plan the outfit so that it can easily adapt from a smart casual day outfit to a more dressed up dinner outfit. This can easily be achieved by adding different accessories, a light coat or adjusting your hairstyle. Go classic with solid colours. Loud and proud colour combinations make for a vibrant, confident look. Feel free to mix it up with another colour or be bold and stay true to your chosen colour from head to toe. Stand out with modern prints. This is a fun trend to try out. Mixing up abstracts with colours can create a bold and fun look. Pair a print skirt with a solid top, or be daring and mix two prints together. Prints can give you free reign in your clothing choice and shows that you can take a risk and still look fabulous. Monochrome is always a good bet. Black and white may be safe, but to spice things up you can play with separates or prints to get the monochrome trend. A little black dress with bold accessories is always classy. Want to try something different? Try a monochrome jumpsuit, pair it with a bold red lip and small clutch and you look like you are ready for the Red Carpet. Embrace the season. With spring in full bloom, opting for a floral dress will prove to be a worthy investment. The modern way to wear your florals is big and bold. Or, for something a little more understated, think about a single colour outfit with a floral collar or a pastel floral print. Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise. Accessorising is a must for the races. It’s a great way to bring your personality into your outfit from shoes and hats to bags and necklaces. One good tip to remember is that your accessories don’t always have to be big and flamboyant, sometimes less is more. It’s all about complementing the outfit and getting that polished look that you still feel comfortable wearing. Shoes can make a statement all by themselves. If you’re keeping your look simple, go all out with some statement heels to make an impact. Block heels are a practical solution too if you will be on your feet all day. But don’t rule out flats, an embellished flat can be as pretty as sky-high stilettos. Hair and make-up. Your hair and make-up can make or break your look, so pay as much attention to them as you would your outfit. No matter what your outfit, understated is always best when thinking about your race day hair and make-up style. Remember that it’s mostly a day event, so try not to go overboard with darker make-up shades. Keep it simple, with winged eyeliner and brown or subtle gold eye shadow paired with a bright lipstick.

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The Power of Lipstick

earing lipstick can be a pain, you need to make sure it’s perfectly applied, shaping your lips just right, not to mention the amount of times you need to touch up during the day or on a night out! But can that little tube of colour actually improve your mood and well-being? Apparently, it can. In the famous Alexander Pope poem ‘Rape of the Lock’ he speaks about a woman putting on her makeup as if she is applying war paint and armour. It makes you feel confident and ready to battle the world. Many people think wearing lipstick is about looking good for other people, but there are plenty of reasons why applying some lippie will make you feel good. It might be to make yourself feel more feminine or prettier, or adding a fun colour to your lips might just make you feel happy, it doesn’t always have to be about making yourself look better. Although red is seen as the most sexual colour, that doesn’t mean that you should only wear red. If you feel most comfortable in brown or pink, wear it and own it. From the bold reds and neon yellows to the more subtle nudes and pale pinks, lipstick has so many psychological benefits. As we know, the UK is a bit of a grey weather country. Choosing a brighter shade of lipstick like red or bright pink to wear on a grey, rainy day can instantly brighten up your mood. So your lipstick works as a great mood enhancer. Lipstick acts as a great tool for women with terminal illnesses or those who have gone through very traumatic experiences. Applying and wearing lipstick can make women feel worthy of self-care, making them feel ‘normal’. Wearing a work-appropriate shade of lipstick can also make you feel more professional and up your motivation to do the best you can at your job. It gives you a weird but great confidence that says ‘yes, I am a woman who cares about my appearance and still am perfectly capable of doing well in my career’. Lipstick can also enhance the feeling of being unique and individual. Yes, there are the ‘normal’ colours like red, pink and nude. But then there are the women who choose to be different and wear colours that others wouldn’t dare touch, like blue, neon yellow or black. Of course, we are not endorsing self-obsession; there is a line between self-care and selfobsession. Constantly wearing lipstick for the approval of others is not the road to go down. Instead, wearing it for self-confidence and to enhance self-esteem can do wonders for even the most confident of women. Even if you are just having a day of running errands, there’s something powerful about the act of caring for yourself, whether it’s the simple act of curling your lashes or adding a touch of colour to your lips. But, at the end of the day, the thing that makes lipstick so powerful is how you feel when you wear it. When you pick a shade that you feel great in, it can become what differentiates you from others, helping you find what makes you, you.

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