S U S S EStyleX EXAM STRESS HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD
AL FRESCO LIFE WITH SOFIE ALLSOPP LYNN BARBER THE INTERVIEW G SPECIAL THE WEDDIN
A True Romance The stylish guide to weddings
Be Inspired / May 2014
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S U S S EStyleX May 2014
CONTENTS
40 REGULARS 06 Editor’s Letter 09 News 86 Mum on the Run 97 Comment 98 Last Word FEATURES 12 Dan Raven 14 Crowborough area feature 16 Lynn Barber – the interview 78 Arundel and Littlehampton area feature 84 Steyning Festival round-up WEDDING SPECIAL 34 Fairy-tale wedding feature 36 Off-piste wedding day ideas 40 Bridal gowns fashion 44 Grooms fashion 46 Walk-in-Wardrobe spring fashions 48 Beauty for the big day 50 Wedding nails 54 Cocktails with Cleo 56 Fabulous food for weddings 58 Jewellery advice from Alexis Dove
4 | W WW. S U S SE X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
28
FOOD 24 Food News 26 Taste! Food Festival 28 Valentine Warner interview HEALTH & BEAUTY 30 Get fitter without trying too hard FAMILY 88 Teenagers and sleep issues 92 Coping with exam stress HOTEL & TRAVEL 82 Julie Burchill reviews Bailiffscourt Hotel
72
BUSINESS 94 Jeremy Taylor HOMES & PROPERTY 64 The Fabric Lady 66 Interiors – the best of British 72 Sofie Allsopp goes al fresco
88 66
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Inspired by Brufords Arndale Centre Eastbourne BN21 3NW 01323 410264 www.inspiredbybrufords.com
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Editor Sam Harrington-Lowe
EDITOR’S STYLE
Deputy Editor Katie Wyartt Food & Drink Editor Sam Bilton
Get in touch
We’d love to hear your comments, views and suggestions for Sussex Style so please email me: samhl@ sandrpublishing.co.uk
Contributors Sofie Allsopp, Sam Bilton, Julie Burchill, Jess Denny, Victoria Emerson, Laura Jandac, Emma Myers, Daniel Raven, Cleo Rocos, Jeremy Taylor, Matt Guy Wright Creative Director Lucy Newton Head of Finance Richard Judd Managing Director Seán Kane Published by S and R Publishing Ltd
Welcome to the May issue of
S U S S EStyleX the Taste! food festival in Chichester.
really feeling it at Sussex
I interview Lynn Barber as she visits
Style Towers this month,
Sussex to give a lecture on the condition
as we’ve been working
of the celebrity interview, and in our
our way through our
education section we look at two big issues
glorious wedding section
for parents of teenagers – how to deal with
for May. It’s hard not to get drawn into the
exam stress and why teenagers find it so
romance of a beautiful summer wedding,
hard to get up in the mornings.
and yours truly even slipped on a pair of
Julie Burchill continues her foray as
skyscraper heels to model some bridal
hotel critic, and we take a peek at both
fashions in Hove! All for charity of course…
Arundel (with a bit of Littlehampton) and
In our wedding section there are
and fitness writer, Matt Guy Wright, with
food and naughty cocktails. We also look
some tips on getting fitter without having
at bridalwear, beauty prep for the big day
to try too hard. And we have all our usual
and stunning jewellery too. And if you’re
wonderful writers and contributors,
looking for something a bit different we’ve
bringing you the best in opinion, interiors,
uncovered some of the more unusual
food and business.
Meanwhile, the festival season really
Enjoy this issue. If it inspires anyone to pop the question, do let us know!
starts to kick off from May onwards and we look at a few options – including a
Sam
quick-fire round-up of some of Brighton
Editor, Sussex Style
Festival’s must-sees, and the lowdown on
samhl@sandrpublishing.co.uk
6 | W WW. S U S SE X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Sussex Style Magazine www.facebook.com/ SussexStyleMagazine SussexStyleMag www.twitter.com/SussexStyleMag Cover image: ‘Laguna’ dress by Patrick Casey, £4,497; available from Churchgate Porter, www.churchgateporter.com Photography: Stuart Weston
S U S S EStyle X EXAM STRESS HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD
AL FRESCO LIFE WITH SOFIE ALLSOPP LYNN BARBER THE INTERVIEW G SPECIAL THE WEDDIN
A True Romance The stylish guide to weddings
Crowborough. We welcome our new health
gorgeous photo shoots, fabulous wedding
possibilities for weddings in Sussex.
Summerhill House Hythe Road, Kent TN24 0NE 01273 358850 www.sussexstyle.co.uk
Be Inspired / May 2014
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. EXCEPT FOR NORMAL REVIEW PURPOSES, NO PART OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHERS. NO ARTWORK OR EDITORIAL CONNTENT MAY BE USED IN ANY OTHER FORM OR PUBLICATION WITHOUT THE PUBLISHER’S CONSENT. EVERY CARE IS TAKEN IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAGAZINE, BUT THE CONTENTS ARE ONLY MEANT AS A GUIDE TO THE READERS. THE PROPRIETORS OF THIS PUBLICATION ARE PUBLISHERS , NOT AGENTS OR SUB AGENTS OF THOSE WHO ADVERTISE THEREIN. THEY CANNOT BE HELD LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS SUFFERED AS A RESULT OF INFORMATION GAINED FROM THE PUBLICATION. COPYRIGHT 2014 S AND R PUBLISHING LTD - SUSSEX STYLE TM
PHOTOGRAPHY: JULIA CLAXTON
Love is in the air! We’re
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NEWS STYLE
IF YOU’VE GOT NEWS FROM AROUND SUSSEX, LET US KNOW!
News
SAMHL@SANDRPUBLISHING.CO.UK
Sound Bites
A new festival aims to please families and food-lovers alike. The South of England Food & Drinks Festival in Ardingly celebrates
WAR HEROES
A gave their life in World War I? As re you related to someone who
we mark the centenary of WWI the Royal
local food and drink, as well as the awardwinning artisans, farmers and growers
gave their lives and we are dependent on
that produce it, to the
the general public to help us identify them.’
background of great music.
The Association is currently fundraising
There is foodie fun for kids,
Sussex Regimental Association is looking
to unveil a new Monument on 10th
including cooking workshops and
for the descendants of those who died
September 2014 at Priez, France, where
food tastings, in a special yurt
from September to December 1914 with
the Sussex regiment suffered its first
tent play area. The grown-ups,
a view to including them in a new
casualties exactly 100 years ago.
meanwhile, can enjoy a range of
commemorative monument on the old
If anyone is a descendant of those
ales, ciders and English wines in
battlefield this autumn. Regimental
who served in the Royal Sussex Regiment
the Hay Bale Barn, with live folk,
Historian Col. Roderick Arnold explains:
in the Great War, please get in touch
jazz and swing bands playing.
‘After 100 years, it is difficult to find the
at royalsussexregt@live.co.uk or call
descendants of the very brave men that
Nigel Taggart on 01243 699881
GET DOWN TO BUSINESS
Business events can sometimes be a bit dry but we like the look of this one. Over 150 business leaders will get together at the Grand Hotel in Brighton for the Acumen Business Convention, which includes a champagne reception, lunch and music. Speakers include Levi Roots (pictured), who will be sharing his fascinating journey from Dragons’ Den to national brand, founder of Great Guns Marketing, Liz Jackson, who lost her sight the year she started her business and David Hall, founder of The Ideas Centre. Tickets £79+VAT.
www.acumenbusinesslaw.co.uk
Making it work Are you looking for
more flexible hours that can fit around your diary? New agency Ten2Two is for professionals who want to work part-time and is the brainchild of two mums in Ditchling – Emma Cleary, who has worked for Dow Jones, and Laurie Smith, who has worked in the luxury hotel business. ‘We believe there is a huge waste of talent and skills out there,’ says Emma. ‘And a traditional, nine-to-five job doesn’t always fit in with people’s family or other priorities.’
www.ten2two.org (launches 14th May)
Supporting English Wine Week, the festival is also offering English wine masterclasses from top local winemakers, pairing their wines with gastronomic delights created by Masterchef: The Professionals winner Steven Edwards. The event is a partnership between Sussex-based food events firm Food Rocks (owners Amy Hakim and Simon Teesdale pictured) and the South of England Agricultural Society, bringing together the best of the hip and the traditional together in local food, drink and entertainment.
Advance tickets £8; £9 on the gate, free for children under 14. For more info visit www.foodrockssouth.co.uk ›› MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTY LE .C O M | 9
NEWS STYLE
FESTIVAL FAVES
It’s one of Sussex’s biggest festivals and Brighton Festival (3rd–25th May) has a huge range of fabulous events this year. Here’s our pick of what not to miss
THEATRE Opus No.7 With fire-breathing pianos, towering
VISUAL ART Nowhere and Everywhere at the Same Time, No.2
puppets and blizzards of newspaper
Renowned choreographer William Forsythe asks you to become the
print, Dmitry Krymov – one of the most
dancer in his interactive installation. Audiences walk between hundreds of
influential individuals in Russian theatre
swinging pendulums, avoiding their touch, to create a wholly unique dance.
today – brings his bold and spectacular
3rd–25th May, 11am–7pm, The Old Municipal Market. Free
show to Brighton. 3rd–8th May, various times, Brighton Dome
memoirs and speaks of his time in Paris
spectrum of children’s literature. From
Corn Exchange. Tickets from £10
during the Eighties and early Nineties.
the climax of the Young City Reads
25th May, 8pm, Brighton Dome Concert
project to workshops for budding writers
Hall. Tickets from £10
and illustrators, there’s something for everyone, whatever your age! 4th–25th May, various times, various venues – see website for details
LIVE MUSIC Cat Power Chan Marshall – aka Cat Power – goes solo
DANCE Talk to the Demon
in this one-off UK performance. Expect
Six adult performers and one child
everything from haunting guitars and
take to the stage in the UK premiere of
provocative vocals to upbeat electronica.
choreographer Wim Vandekeybus’ visceral
CIRCUS Sinué
18th May, 8pm, Brighton Dome Concert
work, which explores social media and the
Brussels-based contemporary circus
Hall. Tickets from £10
innocence of childhood.
company Feria Musica guarantees to make
13th and 14th May, 8pm, Brighton Dome
your jaw drop with this thrilling display
LITERATURE Inside a Pearl
Concert Hall. Tickets from £10
of acrobatic and aerial work. Combining
Part love letter to the city, part titillating
FAMILY 26 Letters
to be a stunning visual feast.
account of his various adventures; acclaimed man of letters and spellbinding
The festival within the Festival, this
Concert Hall. Tickets from £10
novelist Edmund White delves into his
series of 18 events celebrates the full
www.brightonfestival.org
Fresh from releasing her ninth album Sun,
10 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
strength, sensitivity and skill, it promises 21st and 22nd May, 7.30pm, Brighton Dome
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CHANG E T H E CHANN E L The BBC isn’t what it used to be, says Daniel Raven, who explains why we’ve fallen out of love with Auntie
W
hen the time recently came for me to pick out a notebook to take on holiday (a bigger task than it sounds – the wife’s very keen on buying notebooks), I found myself drawn
to a plain, understated affair in black, with the BBC logo on the front. Putting that particular notebook in my bag made me feel, for a moment, weirdly pleased with myself, but I didn’t give it much thought until a day or two later, when I saw the same notebook sitting on a restaurant table and started to get the same feeling again. I realised that this
It probably helped that (historically, at least) it never tried
unfamiliar sensation was actually a kind of national pride,
to sell us anything. The gaffer tape that used to obscure
and that it was being triggered by the sight of the BBC logo
the labels of household products on Blue Peter was like a
in a subliminal, almost Pavlovian way – even though it had
proud banner beneath which we, as a nation, could unite in
been several weeks since I’d actually seen or heard anything
suspicion of all things commercial. Terry Wogan’s endless
on the BBC worth a crap. I was baffled and a bit disturbed by
anecdotes about the cramped corridors at BBC TV Centre
this evidence of how thoroughly I’d been programmed. Those
and the poor quality of the sandwiches in its canteen helped
three simple letters... what strange power did they hold?!
reassure us that no one at the corporation would ever be in
The fact is that most people of my generation or older
a position to feather their own nest at the expense of good
still tend to think of the corporation as having an inherent
programme-making. And hardly anyone really minded about
significance that somehow sets it above the pointless bobbins
the licence fee, because we all felt genuinely invested in this
that comprises the vast majority of its actual output. As
unique enterprise that genuinely was, for a time, the envy of
infants, we were hypnotised by that revolving-globe-with-
all other civilised nations. But these days? Hmmm, I dunno...
mirrors thing; when it piped up to tell us Ivor The Engine was
Ever since the mid-Nineties, when John Birt became the first
coming on, we felt as though the BBC was the whole world
director-general to hit on the groovy notion of running the
and the whole world was talking just to us, and we grew up
corporation as if it were a wholly commercial enterprise, the
trusting its word on everything from politics
BBC has been a slowly lengthening shadow
and religion to art and science. And on top
of its former self. And the more that shadow
of that it gave us Fawlty Towers and all those
has lengthened – with the addition of more
other classic sitcoms, The Singing Detective and
and more new TV channels, radio stations
all those other groundbreaking dramas, Badger
and websites – the less distinct it has become.
and... and there’s no other show like Badger.
One of the great joys of watching BBC TV
12 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
OPINION STYLE
❝
Hardly anyone really minded about the licence fee, because we felt genuinely invested in this unique enterprise that was the envy of all other civilised nations
of the shows they were already doing when they were poached. From a licence fee-payer’s point of view, this is some distance away from being Great Value For Money. And the same could perhaps be said of the corporation’s recent redevelopment of Broadcasting House into a glittering, inexplicably steampunk Bastille that makes pretty much every other office building in Britain look like a derelict holiday chalet. The recent Broadcasting House-based sitcom W1A did turn out to be quite amusing at times, but the very fact of its palatial setting was suggestive enough of needless, hubristic overspend to infuriate – and no, I’m not going to say ‘you have to admire their audacity’ for putting that out so close to the date of their forthcoming Charter renewal/ cancellation, because I’m not at all convinced that audacity is what it was. To me, it looked a lot more like classic BBC complacency: ‘We know we’re
used to be that the closest thing you’d ever see to an advert
daft and we’re getting everything
was a static card showing an image from a future show,
wrong but hey, you’ve got to love
accompanied by a bashful announcement along the lines
us – we’re the BBC’.
of ‘And if you enjoy police drama, you might be interested
All of these issues – and so
to know...’. These days, you have to sit through as many if not
very many more besides – are
more adverts while watching the BBC as you do watching ITV.
directly attributable to the BBC’s
Yep, it’s all about the ‘branding’ now: the BBC wants to make
insistence on thinking of itself
sure you remember that it exists (just in case you failed to
as a hard-headed business bastard instead
notice yourself forking out £145 a year for it), and if it has
of the lovable, one-of-a-kind doofus it once was and was
to ‘refresh’ its various logos 17 times a year to do that then
always meant to be. I’d love to think that it could be that
that’s just what it’s going to have to do. Ironically, though,
doofus again, but all those layers of middle management
this obsession with positioning itself as a unique entity in
and marketing moonshine may now be too calcified for that
viewers’ minds has arisen at a time when much of its actual
to ever be achievable. So let’s call its bluff and start treating
output has become virtually indistinguishable from that of
it like the commercial enterprise it’s been behaving like for
its competitors. The high profile flops such as Eldorado and
so long: make it a voluntary subscription service so we can
Fame Academy are just the tip of the iceberg in this regard,
see, once and for all, just how much the British public values
and even if those shows had somehow become smash hits
it in its current form.
they would still have dented the corporation’s dignity – because what, ultimately, is the point of a BBC whose main
And let’s not hang about – I hear there are TV DETECTOR VANS in the area...!
goal is to beat ITV at its own game? On the increasingly rare occasions when something clever and/or original does slip through the net to get shown on BBC TV, it will almost invariably have been made by old hands whose reputations were established years ago; the corporation’s historic responsibility to discover and nurture new talent seems to have completely fallen by the wayside. And this is hardly surprising, given the insane amounts of cash it routinely throws at ‘stars’ such as Jonathan Ross and Graham Norton in order to poach them from rival channels – not to mention the further large sums it takes to produce vehicles for those ‘stars’, which tend to be carbon copies MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 1 3
GREEN AND
PLEASANT LAND Surrounded by fields, parks and a forest, Crowborough has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts – and it’s not a bad commute either, finds Sam Harrington-Lowe
Tell us about it… When you think of Crowborough, you probably think sleepy little village. Or at least I did, until I went there. It is surprisingly large and is also the highest inland town in East Sussex, set within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and bordering Ashdown Forest. It’s so hilly in fact, that it’s been referred to as Scotland in Sussex, and in the late 19th century it was promoted as a health resort, The Freedom Leisure Centre
based on its high elevation, hills and surrounding forest. The gorgeous countryside
has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment and
around the town is a paradise for
facilities include a swimming
walkers and there are facilities
pool, gym, sports hall, children’s
nearby for horse riders, cyclists
playground, model railway, skate
and rock climbers. Crowborough
park and pétanque piste. A main event in the town’s
is around seven miles south of Tunbridge Wells on the A26, and
calendar is its celebration of Guy
can also be reached by train on
Fawkes Night, held annually
the Uckfield line from London
on 5th November. An average
Bridge in just over an hour.
of 5,000 people descend upon
Its most famous resident
Goldsmiths Recreation Ground
❝
The gorgeous countryside around the town is a paradise for walkers, horse riders, cyclists and rock climbers
but how good they are is slightly questionable, with many of them having only a ‘satisfactory’ or ‘good’ Ofsted report. Skippers Hill prep school stands out, with its many outstanding features, but Beacon Academy for secondary level is so good that many Tunbridge Wells parents
was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle,
for this town council event.
commemorated by a statue now
However this is overshadowed
standing at the main crossroads
by Carnival Night, run by the
in town. The town centre gives
town’s Bonfire and Carnival
the impression of being a
Society, which sees the whole
bustling village, with excellent
town taking to the streets on the
The Crow and Gate offers hearty,
supermarket provision and
second Saturday in September.
seasonal pub grub in picturesque
are choosing it over the grammar schools in their own area. Gastro delights?
surroundings, while La Casa in
numerous small, independent Are there any good schools?
retailers, restaurants and cafés.
nearby Nutley serves authentic
There is also the luxury of
There are quite a lot of schools
Italian food at very reasonable
plentiful free parking.
in and around Crowborough,
prices and The Griffin Inn in
14 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
CROWBOROUGH STYLE
On the market
Put your glad rags on for… Eclectic shopping emporium and café Trading Boundaries transforms into a rather wonderful live music and dinner venue on certain evenings, and has an impressive line-up of acts this year including The Brand New Heavies, The Blockheads and local band The Tar Babies. There’s also Hailsham Pavilion
New Stone Cottage, Fairwarp
Cinema and Live Music Theatre,
Offers in the region of £1,270,500
or The Picture House cinema in nearby Uckfield. And of course Tunbridge Wells, with its many restaurants, clubs and theatres is just a 15-minute drive away. Pamper and stay
Stable Cottage, Crowborough Offers in the region of £650,000
There are lots of lovely places to stay near Crowborough, including Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club in Forest Row, which also has a great spa, the nearby Fletching offers some amazing local, freshly prepared food. For something a little more upmarket head through the forest towards Forest Row to the Ashdown Park Hotel, which is home to the rather wonderful Anderida restaurant.
Clockwise, from top: Wilderness Wood; National Cat Centre; Groombridge Place and Enchanted Forest
East Sussex National Golf Hotel, beautiful country house hotel Buxted Park, and Horsted Place
Ivy Cottage, Mark Cross
Country Hotel, which has a 3-star
Offers in the region of £255,000
AA rating and is recommended
All Peter Banfield,
by Condé Nast Johansens.
www.peterbanfield.com; 01892 653333
Anything for little ones?
Duddleswell Tea Rooms in
Absolutely loads – the area is
Llama Park just outside Forest
the forest near Uckfield offers
full of family activities, with
Row and the National Cat Centre
home-made scones, cakes and
plenty of outdoor space to roam
in Chelwood Gate, which offers
puddings daily, with proper loose
through, including Crowborough
family walks as well an adoption
leaf tea and delicious traditional
Country Park and Wildnerness
centre. If that’s not enough,
tea room dishes; but it’s hard not
Wood, a family-run sustainable
there’s Groombridge Place and
to want to visit Piglet’s Tearoom
woodland with a year-round
Enchanted Forest and loads of
at Pooh Corner in Hartfield, with
programme of outdoor events
walks and trails. Check out the
its menu including Smackerels,
and activities. There’s also Bowles
High Weald website for walks,
Tigger’s Treats and Strengthening
outdoor activity centre, Evolution
places to visit and activities:
Medicines, among other things!
indoor climbing centre, the
www.highweald.org MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 1 5
A
Curious Career S
Notorious interviewer Lynn Barber is making an appearance at the Brighton Festival, holding a lecture on the state of the celebrity interview. Sam Harrington-Lowe went to find out more
till working for The Sunday Times as an interviewer
disapprove of someone, such as Harriet Harman, Marianne
today, Lynn Barber is a writer with decades of
Faithfull or Michael O’Leary it seems to fire up my writing
interviews in the bag and countless press awards,
and I quite enjoy writing a hatchet job. But I don’t go into
and is well placed to tackle this subject, being one
every interview thinking that’s what I’ll do.’
of the UK’s most famous interviewers. At the lecture she
Withering reviews and hatchet jobs are much more fun for
plans to examine the validity of the celebrity interview, the
the reader, there’s no doubt about it. A searing and scathing
role of PRs in the business, and the issues of copy approval.
read will always delight far more than a namby-pamby job,
It’s something we face here at the magazine all the time.
and I for one enjoy shouting with laughter as I read a well-
How can one achieve a good interview, which isn’t just five
written piece taking someone apart. I’m pretty sure Barber
minutes long, or designed to plug a product, or that follows
knows this, and when reading her interviews, particularly the
a script outlined by a PR?
negative ones, it’s often clear to see how she steers the reader.
To tell the truth I was pretty nervous about interviewing
‘I have been often accused of being judgemental but I think
her. A quick google will tell you that she’s billed as one of the
readers are disappointed if you don’t come up with some sort
media’s fiercest interviewers, with a repertoire of hatchet
of conclusion about the person you meet, although when I
jobs that include Vanessa Redgrave, Jerry Hall, Alan Sugar,
started I was sort of told off for it. And now, when I interview
Marianne Faithfull and Rafael Nadal. She has a reputation
someone who I don’t particularly have any strong feelings
for going into the interview bristling and confrontational
about, the readers tend to be disappointed. They like it if I’m
and I wondered what she’d be like as an interviewee.
very enthusiastic about somebody or they like it even better
I thought she might eat me for breakfast.
if I’m hatcheting somebody. And it’s the mushy, in-between
Actually I couldn’t have been more wrong. She is charm
ones that don’t seem to go down very well.’
personified; friendly and chatty, and as we start talking
The lecture in Brighton is linked to the release of a new
I slowly feel I can start to breathe again. I decide to take
book. I’m aware of the irony here, in a ‘pop will eat itself’
the plunge and ask her about being fierce.
kind of way. A lecture pondering the role of PR in journalism,
‘It’s certainly how I’ve built my reputation. I mean, I feel
while at the same time promoting a book? In the book itself,
that actually only one in 10 of my interviews is a hatchet
Barber covers the now infamous interview she did with
job, but those are always the ones that people remember.
Martin Clunes, revealing how she fell out of love with him
And I think perhaps I write them better when I really get
from the minute it started, until he finally ground out the
the bit between my teeth and hate someone. That always
fact that he was only doing the interview to promote his
seems to write well and people seem to like it. When I really
TV series. I ask her how it feels to be standing in his shoes. ››
16 | WW W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
PROFILE STYLE
A literary force At 70, Barber’s writing career is still in full swing
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE .C O M | 1 7
PROFILE STYLE
‘Well I don’t mind, you know I’ve
in’, and I rather hung my head with
been through this kind of thing
shame afterwards. But I’ve never
before with the book and the film (An
made a secret of the fact that I was
Education), and I think it’s fair enough,
promiscuous at Oxford. I rather
if you’ve written a book, or in the case
wanted to make that point actually,
of Martin Clunes, made a TV series,
because when I was growing up I was
and you want people to see it or read
told that if you slept around, no nice
it, then probably you have to do what
man would ever marry you. And
you can to publicise it, or at any rate
I did marry an extremely nice man.
do what your publishers ask you do
So actually I don’t think that spell of
to.’ I press her a bit further, wanting
promiscuity did me any harm at all.’
to draw her out on the subject of
Following her spell of promiscuity,
PRs. She laughs wryly. ‘Well, you’ll
Barber did indeed marry, and marry
find some stuff about that in the
for keeps. Much has been made of the
book, you know, I’m not a huge fan.
50-men story, and also of the fact that
And I’ve said that there are certain
at 16 she was ‘groomed’ by a much older
areas, especially when it comes
man, something that her writing shows
to film stars and, to a certain extent, sports stars, where
she still deplores. But she also spent a great deal of much-
the control by PRs makes it pretty much impossible to get
loved time working for Penthouse, writing on sex and kink.
any decent length of time with anyone, and also they kind
Maybe she just liked sex. Is that such a big deal?
of write a script of what they’re going to say and they just
‘[Writing about] kinky sex was my interest back when
churn it out.’ She continues: ‘When I started out, back in
I was working at Penthouse, in the late Sixties and early
the Eighties, PRs were really terrible. And they are now
Seventies, a long time ago. And in those days it really was
very efficient. But because they are now so very efficient,
sensational – first of all to hear that there was such a thing
they make it very difficult to get a good interview. And
as a foot fetishist, and then to interview one. I enjoyed all
I think it’s selling the reader short if you just swallow
that very much. But I gather that it’s more mainstream now.
their publicity lines and don’t ask any real questions.’
Probably everyone goes around saying they’re a foot fetishist
Going back to standing in someone else’s shoes, I ask her about the now-infamous Desert Island Discs interview where, when pressed by Kirsty Young, she found herself
❝
or something. At my advanced
When I really disapprove of someone, it seems to fire up my writing and I enjoy writing a hatchet job. But I don’t go into every interview thinking that’s what I’ll do
flustered during the interview,
age I’m not really totally abreast of that.’ So what next for Lynn Barber? She’s 70 this year, and shows no signs of giving up yet. ‘I still work for The Sunday
blurting out an unfortunate phrase related to her sleeping
Times and I’ve got lots of book festivals and things to do this
with 50 men in two terms when at Oxford. In her new book,
year,’ she muses, ‘so I probably won’t write anything other
A Curious Career, she says, ‘It was only when she (Young)
than what I’m contracted to write. But I might think about
interviewed me that I realised how very, very good she
another book next year.’ I ask her if there is anyone still on
is. She picked up on the admission that I’d been very
her bucket list to interview, and she laughs. ‘The one I always
promiscuous at Oxford and nagged away at it like a terrier
want but will probably never get is Rupert Murdoch. But
with a bone.’ The resultant tabloid coverage was somewhat
there are quite a few people I still want to interview – there
gleeful and omniscient. Does she regret that, I wonder?
are a load of people that I’ve been trying for years.’ I reckon
‘What was really weird about that was that I say it in my book, which came out about a year before Desert Island Discs, but then because it was on there, all the tabloids
she’s right, and Murdoch will probably prove forever elusive. But there’s one interview I’d definitely like to read. Lynn Barber appears at the Dome Studio Theatre on Saturday
took it up and made it their quote of the week. I used this
24th May at 6pm, Tickets £10. A Curious Career is published
particularly unfortunate phrase, that I was ‘jamming them
by Bloomsbury, and is out in hardback on 8th May, £16.99
18 | WW W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
THE UPHOLSTERER The name of The Upholsterer is synonymous with country style and design. Current and always changing and improving, our customers are confident in our products and service. It is for this reason that we have chosen to showcase the new collection from Sanderson fabrics in collaboration with Emma Bridgewater More popular than ever, it would be hard to find a home in Sussex that didn’t have at least one piece by Emma Bridgewater. Whether it be one of her mugs or a teapot, a tea towel or cake tin they feature somewhere in most of our kitchens. The new fabric and wallpaper collection from Sanderson will be instantly familiar as Emma’s most popular patterns are now available by the metre or roll. Her polka dot design can now be nursery curtains, a kitchen blind or a striking scatter cushion.The popular fig and pomegranate designs would make fantastic curtains or an armchair. The fig design features in the current window display at our shop in North Street. There is such a wide range of wallpapers and fabrics so let Laura at The Upholsterer take you through it and offer her advice or a home visit to make your choices easier and more enjoyable. Throughout May the entire collection from Sanderson will be on display at our North street shop to show off the collection at its best. Whether it is a wing chair or a scatter cushion we are on hand to take the comforting and familiar Emma Bridgewater collection and provide a bespoke service just for you. If you have any queries or require any samples please do not hesitate to pop into the shop or give us a call. It really is a superb collection that you will feel you already know. The chair in the picture is covered in Emma Bridgewater from Sanderson Egg & Feather design and is available to purchase from The Upholsterer at £720. Cushions start from £40. ■
The Upholsterer, 15 North Street, Midhurst GU29 9DH www.theupholsterermidhurst.co.uk laura@theupholsterermidhurst.co.uk Tel: 01730 810284
ART HOUSE
Delve into the intriguing stories behind National Trust mansion Uppark, in a unique exhibition of contemporary arts and crafts that echo the mansion’s colourful past
U
ppark House is a
restoration project, it re-opened
tranquil and intimate
six years later. Captivated by
18th-century house
this ‘phoenix from the ashes’
on the beautiful
story, Zoë Hillyard has created
South Downs, near Petersfield.
her signature hand-stitched
Rescued after a major fire
patchwork ceramics, which sit
in 1989, it houses an elegant
within the house’s extensive
Georgian interior with a famous
ceramic collection.
Grand Tour collection, which,
Unravelling Uppark extends
together with the larger than life
in Uppark’s dining room that
into the ground itself with line
characters from its past, is the
looks beyond Emma’s portrayal
drawing sculptures created by
inspiration for a new exhibition.
as mere male entertainment, and
Agnes Jones. Inspired by the
Supported by Arts Council
reflects on her unfolding story
vivid stories of Uppark’s female
England, Unravelling Uppark
of fame and misfortune.
residents, these artworks on the
In 1825, the 70-year-old Sir
showcases the work of leading
house’s portico represent Mary
Harry scandalised society once
Ann Bullock as Io, an ancient
One artist, Steven Follen,
again by marrying his 20-year-
Greek nymph seduced by Zeus,
has created delicate origami
old dairymaid assistant, Mary
and Emma Hart as the goddess
miniature boats, made from
Ann Bullock. This union has
of prosperity, Euthenia.
folded metal sheets lined
inspired ‘A Milkmaid’s Song’,
with gold leaf and filled with
artist Gen Doy’s captivating sound
Heffernan’s artwork, created
spices, to echo Sir Matthew
piece, set in the very dairy where
using materials rescued from
Fetherstonhaugh’s connections
Sir Harry first heard her singing.
Uppark’s great fire including
contemporary artists.
A more sinister recollection
with the exotic East India Company in the 18th century.
Over in the stables, Caitlin
horse’s tack, jewels and fabrics,
is revealed in Cityscape – an
explores the contrast between
Sir Matthew’s only son, Sir
installation by several artists
the privileged lives of characters
Harry, spent his youthful years
that references science fiction
such as Sir Harry, and those
in wild carousing. He was a close
writer HG Wells’ novel The Time
of the grooms and stable boys
friend of the Prince Regent and
Machine. HG Wells spent much
who worked there.
his entourage included Emma
of his boyhood at Uppark, where
Hart, the future Lady Hamilton
his mother was the housekeeper,
beautiful and thought-provoking
– Lord Nelson’s lover – who
and the spooky servants’ tunnels
artworks at Unravelling Uppark,
allegedly once danced naked
are said to have influenced this
from 4th May to 2nd November
on Uppark’s dining table. Using
famous gothic horror novel.
(closed Fridays and Saturdays).
Following the fire in 1989,
a series of mirrors, video artist
Discover these, and other
For more information visit
Jini Rawlings draws on Emma
all was thought to be lost.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark
Hart’s story with an installation
However, after an incredible
or call 01730 825415
20 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
ADVERTISING FEATURE
by Robert Cooper and Stella Harding; pieces from the Uppark glass collection; ‘In the Red Drawing Room’ ceramics by Zoë Hillyard
PHOTOGRAPHY: ©JIM STEPHENSON
Clockwise from far left: Uppark’s grand entrance; Sir Harry Fetherstonhaugh; ‘Io’ by Agnes Jones; video installation by Jini Rawlings; ceramic basket
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 2 1
facebook.com/chifoodfest
Do visit our website for more details about the event...
www.tastefestival.net
@chifoodfest 01243 839316 / 07779999556
SUSSEX FOOD FLAVOURS In this month’s packed food section we catch up
with celebrated chef Valentine Warner, who talks about his new book, grizzly bears and prawn mayonnaise sandwiches. As well as food news and recipes, we revel in this season’s asparagus, take in a supper club, have coffee in Sheffield Green and explore wine courses. So tuck in and enjoy!
FOOD NEWS, IN ASSOCIATION WITH:
AQUA RIVA TEQUILA
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 2 3
Food news Sussex Style’s bon viveur Sam Bilton on this month’s tastes and treats
ASPARAGUS IN SEASON:
I
feel a bit sorry for anyone who
doesn’t have an asparagus bed in
firm and most definitely not limp. To cook asparagus, remove the
Masters in Wine
Wine buffs who want to extend their
their garden (admittedly a lot of people
woodier end of the stem then steam
knowledge can sign up for the new masters
simply don’t have room for one). Really
for five to eight minutes (depending
in viticulture and oenology (that’s vine
fresh asparagus cooked shortly after it’s
on the thickness of the spear), ideally
growing and winemaking to those not in
been cut tastes amazing. It is spring in
keeping the tender tips out of the water.
the know) being offered by the University
a mouthful – sweet, tender and grassy,
Asparagus loves eggs, so a hollandaise
of Brighton at Plumpton College.
like a freshly mown
sauce is a welcome
lawn – and nothing like
accompaniment,
the stuff you buy in the
perhaps with some crisp
supermarkets.
pancetta crumbled over
If you don’t grow
the top. It also loves
Starting in September 2014 the course will deal with all aspects of grape growing and winemaking, but will focus on cool climate issues, including terroir, climate change and the production of sparkling wine. Students will have full access to the new
your own then look
another spring favourite
for bundles of British
of mine, wild garlic.
asparagus on sale
You’ll find a great recipe
in greengrocers and
for asparagus and wild
farmer’s markets from
garlic tart on my blog,
Estate commercial vineyard and winery.
early May until June.
www.comfortably
Further details and application forms
The spears should be
hungry.com
are available from www.plumpton.ac.uk
24 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
UK Wine Research Centre at Plumpton – which includes a research winery, laboratories and a tasting room – as well as the 9-hectare Plumpton
TASTE STYLE
Time for tea Sussex-based children’s charity Action Medical Research is urging the UK
SUPPER CLUB Fans of the ‘Bloomsbury Set’
will delight in this new book. It contains fascinating excerpts from the diaries, letters and
workforce to take a break
as some distressing
great food, and the Action
on Thursday 19th June
and rare conditions that
Cream Teas really are the
with a cream tea in a box.
strongly affect children.
perfect afternoon treat in
Action Cream Teas will be
This year’s campaign is
a box. And what better way
delivered to workplaces
supported by celebrity
to indulge than with a cream
to raise money for the
chef Lesley Waters. ‘I’m
tea for charity!’ Each box
valuable research the
delighted to support Action
contains scones, jam, clotted
charity supports around
Medical Research’s Cream
cream and tea and costs
stillbirth, epilepsy,
Teas delivery service,’ says
£6 (min. order of 10). Order
meningitis, cerebral palsy
Lesley. ‘My own style is
online by 6th June at www.
and brain cancer, as well
simple, fun and all about
action.org.uk/time4tea
memoirs of Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and their clique, revealing their passion for food.
TRADING BOUNDARIES: SHEFFIELD GREEN (NEAR FLETCHING), EAST SUSSEX TN22 3RB; 01825 790200
Sussex-based author Jans Ondaatje Rolls has collated nearly 200 recipes, each with its
W standing guard outside you can’t
own witty introduction, ranging
miss Trading Boundaries. Inside is a
from Mrs Ramsay’s Boeuf en
veritable Aladdin’s cave of pottery, trinkets
Daube (featured in Woolf’s To
and exquisite exotic wood furniture with
ith two regal white elephants
The Lighthouse) to Ham Spray
an eastern vibe. As you meander through
Triangles (apparently inspired by
the store you eventually come to the
a ménage à trios between Lytton
cavernous Elephant Café. With its ochre
Strachey, Dora Carrington and
arches adorned with fairy lights it has the
Ralph Partridge).
feel of a souk minus the crowds and chaos.
Jans will be discussing The
Coffee Break of the Month
The coffee here is decent and comes with
Bloomsbury Cookbook with
the ubiquitous caramel biscuit. However,
Virginia Nicholson, granddaughter
special mention should go to their cakes.
shops where you will find fashion, art
of Vanessa Bell, on 24th May at
Giant slabs of coffee and walnut cake or
and wine. They frequently host live music
the 25th Charleston Festival,
earl grey and orange sponge beckon and
events in the evenings so keep an eye on
which takes place on 16th–26th
are sure to lead even the most calorie-
their website. www.tradingboundaries.com
May). For more details and tickets
conscious among us astray. They also serve
visit www.charleston.org.uk.
lunch with an enticing array of paninis,
The Bloomsbury Cookbook
sandwiches and heartier dishes on offer.
is available from all leading
After you’ve had your fill in the café you
bookshops, priced at £24.95.
can take a stroll around the courtyard
WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE CAFE IN SUSSEX? LET ME KNOW VIA TWITTER @SJFBILTON
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE .C O M | 2 5
TASTE STYLE Sussex S ty le is th e o m a ga z in e m e d ia ff ic ia l p a r tn e r a s s oc ia te d w it h th e Ta s te! fe s ti v a l
GOOD TASTE
G
Here in Sussex we have a real soft spot for all things nostalgic. Vintage events frequently pop up all over the county and the forthcoming Taste! in Chichester is no exception et your fill of retro fun at the first Taste! artisan
Carr of the Kitchen Academy will also be running several
food festival, which is being held in the historic
cookery classes for children and their parents throughout the
city of Chichester on 14th–15th June. Highlights
festival. And Transition Chichester will be devoting space in
include the Vintage Area, which includes
its community garden for children to sow seeds that they
a pop-up tea room run by Aida from local bakery Whipped & Baked. The tea will be served in proper bone china cups
can watch grow throughout the year. The festival is free to attend and with over 80 stalls selling
by waitresses dressed in outfits inspired by the Lyons tea
local food and drink plus music and entertainment on the
rooms from the Forties.
festival stage it promises to be lots of delicious fun. Taste!
And as no cuppa is complete without something sweet on
will also be helping to raise funds for Stonepillow, a local
the side, there’ll be plenty of delicious treats to choose from.
charity that is working with homeless and vulnerable people
Look out for custard tarts made with Goodwood Farm cream,
towards inclusion and wellbeing.
delicately short melting moments filled with local strawberry
For regular updates and festival news follow Taste! on Twitter
jam and rich, sticky Chelsea buns.
@chifoodfest or on Facebook at facebook.com/chifoodfest
‘We are very excited about Taste!’ says Aida. ‘Whipped & Baked strives to do business with other local food producers,
GETTING THERE
and this festival will showcase all the amazing local food
Taste! is conveniently located next to Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester PO19 6AP. Be green and avoid the hassle of parking by getting delivered to the door by bus. Stagecoach bus company will be running a continual shuttle bus from Chichester bus station and Market Avenue directly to the festival
talents that we have in this city and will pioneer a local food movement in Chichester.’ There will be plenty for the kids to do, too. If you have a budding Mary Berry or Paul Hollywood in your midst then they may want to bring along one of their tasty creations to be judged in the Children’s Bake Off. Jethro 26 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
for a special price of £2 for a return ticket.
likE drinking your firsT day of Holiday Tequila evangelist Cleo Rocos created AquaRiva® Premium Tequila and Organic Agave Syrup in 2011 after working with a Master Blender in Mexico for 10 months. Being featured in the Virgin Atlantic inaugural flight to Mexico in 2012 with Richard Branson, we are proud that AquaRiva® is now available in Virgin Clubhouses. AquaRiva® Tequila is a double gold medal winner in the UK and voted ‘Best of the Best’ in the USA. Available in Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, on-line; DrinkUpNY, thedrinkshop.com, Amazon and in clubs and bars nationwide.
THE PErfEcT MargariTa rEciPE:
aquariva.co.uk
1.
35 mls AquaRiva®Tequila
2.
25 mls fresh squeezed lime juice (juice of one lime)
3.
15 mls AquaRiva® organic agave syrup
4.
Shake with plenty of ice and serve in a rocks glass with more ice. Garnish with an orange zest.
@cleorocos1
aquarivatequila
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE .C O M | 2 7
Eat your heartout Sam Bilton talks to Valentine Warner about prawn mayonnaise sandwiches, grizzly bears and his latest book
V
alentine Warner is
such as the Sri Lankan-inspired
a man after my own
devilled prawns liberally laced
heart. We both love
with chillies (apparently he
cooking and see it as
likes his devil wicked). It’s a laid
a pleasure rather than a chore.
back approach to cooking yet
And we are frequently thinking
appreciative of the ingredients we
about what to eat next, which
have available.
happens to be the title of Val’s latest cookbook. It seems this book is something
In the introduction, Val writes
Above: Valentine Warner likes his prawns spicy
and end up throwing a lot of it away. Last year I travelled across many remote places and people
that if he were to be reborn as
who live in these areas simply
an animal he would choose a
don’t waste food.’ After that answer I concede
of a compromise. Val’s publisher
grizzly bear. ‘A bit of meat, plenty
was keen for him to jump on the
of fish, ants clawed from their
that perhaps there is a touch
express cooking bandwagon.
frantic hill, mushrooms, some
of grizzly in him. We move on
‘Cooking for me is not about
berries and honey to satisfy any
to his favourite foods. Val loves
being fast all of the time,’ explains
sugary cravings,’ he writes. I tell
vegetables, particularly pulses,
Val. ‘I thought ‘well if speed is of
him that I can’t imagine him
but says fish is his real passion
the essence then how did we eat
being a grizzly bear – he’s far
(check out his recipe opposite).
at home?’ My mother always put
too nice. ‘No, I’m quite grumpy
At the risk of rousing the bear
food on the table very quickly.
really!’ he laughs.
inside him again I ask if he has
So we agreed that we would take
I ask him what makes him
any guilty pleasures. ‘I’m a bit of a sucker for a
my mother’s pace and the recipes
angry. ‘Food waste makes my
were going to be things you can
blood boil,’ he says, with a hint
prawn mayonnaise sandwich
cook in under an hour.’
of a growl. ‘The big problem with
in really crappy bread from a
eating today is that we don’t
motorway service station,’ he
mouthwatering recipes that
have any idea about the world.
confesses with a chuckle. So what
reflect Val’s passion for seasonal
We’ve disassociated ourselves
will he be eating next? ‘I’ve got
food, and is influenced by his
from nature and have embraced
some cheese, spring onions and a
travels. There are comforting
consumerism. I think that’s very,
loaf of bread so I’ll probably have
recipes such as cream of chicken
very worrying for the way we eat.
a cheese and onion sandwich,’
and leek soup and spicier dishes
We buy more food than we need
he says. Sounds good to me.
The book is full of
28 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
TASTE STYLE
MACKEREL WITH PASSION FRUIT SALSA Ingredients (Serves 2) For the mackerel
• 2 medium mackerel, gutted and wiped as dry as possible
• f laked sea salt (approx. 1/2 teaspoon for each fish)
•
lime wedges, to serve
For the passion fruit salsa:
• 1 /2 hot green chilli, such as jalapeño or serrano, seeds scooped out, very finely diced
• 3 fat and full passion fruit, flesh and seeds scooped out 1 tbsp olive oil
• • juice of 1/2 small juicy lime • 2 tbsp very finely chopped fresh coriander, including stalks
•
WHAT TO EAT NEXT BY VALENTINE WARNER
(Mitchell Beazley, £20)
is available to Sussex Style readers for £13, including UK p&p. To order, call 01903 828503 quoting Next/ MB596. Offer subject to availability, please allow 7 days for delivery
Top Tip If you cook the fish over charcoal, make sure it is wiped totally dry first then heavily scattered with some good, flaked sea salt, as this should prevent it sticking. Ideally a barbecue would be better than a grill, as charcoal smoke is a magic ingredient
Method 1) Preheat the grill to high. 2) Slash the mackerel three times down each side, and
just cooked but with
season well with a good
a red blood line running
amount of sea salt, probably
along the spine, you have
more than you would
done it perfectly.
normally be inclined to use. 4) While the fish blister, make the 3) Lay the fish on the grill
passion fruit salsa. Combine all
and place them not too far
the ingredients in a small bowl
from the element. Cook for
and season well with sea salt,
approximately four minutes on
tasting a few times.
each side, or until the skin is 5) Remove the fish to two plates
blistered and browned, taking
and spoon over the salsa.
care not to rip the delicious skin when turning them
6) Serve with lime wedges
over. The mackerel should be
2 tbsp very finely diced
cooked, but ever so reluctant to
and eat accompanied by
red onion
pull from the bone without a
cold beer – drunk from the
bit of prompting. If the flesh is
bottle, not a glass.
• flaked sea salt
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 2 9
CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN In the first of his new health and fitness columns, personal trainer Matt Guy Wright tells you how to incorporate a few simple exercises into your daily routine
S
o spring finally made a glorious comeback and summer is now knocking at the door.
This is when we discover that
the sins hidden all winter by
in The Sound Of Music because
our big coats and jumpers will
she was too busy climbing every
be revealed by T-shirts and shorts
mountain to be out of shape.
in the summer. So it’s time to get in shape. Pronto.
Sussex is full of beautiful rolling hills. It’s the Queen
Dust off those trainers and learn how to factor some basic fitness routines into everyday life
steps each day. To start losing weight, they need to walk yet another 2,000 steps a day. So adding more walking into your everyday life is a great start to
county of the South Downs,
get fitter than you are now.
the gym or feel you just don’t
which cover an area of 260sq
I advise all my personal
have time to get fitter, the trick
miles alone. From Seven Sisters
training clients to buy a few bits
is to factor some basic fitness
to Ashdown Forest, we live in
of simple, no-fuss equipment
know-how into your day.
one giant outdoor gym here,
to use, whether you’re out and
and chances are there’s a hill
about, at the gym or at home.
near you – so use it!
These are inexpensive items that
Whether you use a gym, hate
When Rocky wanted to become world champ, he didn’t just join
The average sedentary person
are easy to use, are sold in all
upped, he ran up and down those
who has a desk job walks around
sports shops and won’t end up
steps punching the air to The Eye
2,000 steps each day. To maintain
as a clothes horse to hang your
of the Tiger. Julie Andrews was a
their current weight, that person
shirts on next to the ironing
thin, petite nun spinning around
needs to walk a further 2,000
board in the spare bedroom…
his gym, he jogged, he press-
30 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
HEALTH STYLE
If you do only one thing, buy a Swiss ball. For about £20 you will have one of the most versatile pieces of fitness equipment there is. They’re brilliant for pretty much everything. Abs, back flexibility, stretches, toning your arms, shoulders, stomach, core strengthening, thighs, bums, tums – this magical ball does it all. Google ‘Swiss Ball Exercises’ and 1,060,000 results come up. Just 15 minutes a day, in the privacy of your home, and nobody will laugh at you when you fall off it.
Resistance bands are a cheap and cheerful way to stretch and tone your muscles. Primark sells a pair in a pack for £4 and you can scrunch them up into a tight ball to put in your bag or pocket very easily. Varying in resistance strength, some resistance bands can be more effective at toning your arms and shoulders than lifting weights.
Ab wheels are the trusty assistant to every fitness professional who appreciates how a very little can go a long way. The humble ab wheel gives your core and abs a workout like no other.
I encourage all my clients to buy ankle and wrist weights, such as these pink Pineapple ones from Amazon (£10). It’s simple; put a heavier pair on your ankles (1kg), a lighter pair on your wrists (0.5kg) and wear them while shopping, walking to work or just pottering about at home. They help tone the legs, derrière and arms and you don’t have to
Walk the kids to school instead
do anything
of driving them, walk to work or
more than
the shops and take a longer way
wear them.
to get there. If that route covers
Use your park benches to shape up. A variation of press-ups and tricep dips can be done using a bench. It’s easy and it’s free!
some steep climbs too, even better. Rye, Arundel, Seaford, Brighton, Uckfield, Petworth, Horsham, Crowborough, Haywards Heath and most other towns in Sussex
Wear a weight-vest while exercising
Swim. It’s so good for you.
and you’ll burn more calories and
It improves breathing for asthmatics,
a more robust route to get around
strengthen your
cardio endurance, tones your tum
your own hood, your free cardio
body. All sports
and is a great way to stretch all over.
workout is taken care of.
shops sell them
If you live on the coast, don’t
and Argos sells a
wimp out – the sea is warmer
good one for £39.99.
than you think in June!
9
Eat more raw food. Steam your veg. Eat lots of protein, fish, turkey, lentils, tofu and almonds. Cut out bread and pasta for a month – especially in the evening – and see how quickly puffiness can disappear.
are all built on hills, so by taking
Walk up steps as much as possible. The key is to walk two or even three steps at a time, stepping on the balls of the feet only. You’ll have a firmer butt in no time and will get a lot less out of breath if running for a bus.
Build these tips into your everyday life, slowly but surely, and you will be getting fitter, feeling lighter on your feet and
looking better for it – without it taking up much time, effort or cost. Go at your own pace and make sure you keep adding a little more each week. Even if you only walk an extra bit each day, you’re still moving faster than someone sitting on the couch. Matt Guy Wright is a personal trainer based in Brighton. 07814 765054; www.mattguywright.co.uk MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 3 1
HOTEL DU VIN BRIGHTON
FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY, CHOOSE SOMEWHERE REALLY RATHER SPECIAL
Hotel du Vin Brighton is situated in the Lanes conservation area, a pebbles’ throw from the seafront. There are two private rooms for you to choose from, Dome and Hush Heath. The Dome, as the name suggests is an impressively large and airy domed room with a stunning ‘wineglass’ chandelier centrepiece that floods with natural daylight and can accommodate up to 100 people. Ruinart is a slightly smaller room with French doors, bespoke artwork and an adjoining door to the bistro providing a truly unique space. So big or small we have the perfect space for your special day.
0844 736 4251 events.brighton@hotelduvin.com
w w w. H O T E L D U V I N . c o m 32 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
HOTEL DU VIN & BISTRO, SHIP STREET, BRIGHTON, SUSSEX BN1 1AD
WEDDING SPECIAL
Love is in the air with our Sussex Style summer wedding special. Beautiful bridalwear, stylish weddings, amazing wedding food and even celebratory cocktails! This section is packed with inspiration for the big day, including gifts, beauty and fashion, as well as some unique wedding ideas from suppliers right here in Sussex‌
A l e x i s D ov e
| WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 3 3 MAY 2014 Collections | Commissions | Unique and Unusual Engagement Rings A l e x i s D ov e F I N E J E WE L L E RY
The Needlemakers, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2NZ, 01273 945786, www.alexisdove.com
FINE
JEWELLERY
A Fairytale Wedding
A Sussex Style contributor shares her unique special day with us, and hopes to inspire other brides-to-be in Sussex with some innovative ideas
H
ere at Sussex Style
groom had styled them to have
we’re always on
an ‘Enchanted Wood’ theme.
the lookout for
After the drinks reception, guests
sassy, stylish
entered the tipis to reggae soul
options, so when we decided to
and ska music played by DJ Ken
feature a wedding, we wanted
(who can be seen playing at The
something different. Victoria
Paris House in Hove every week).
and Matt’s wedding was based
Each table was named after
around children’s literature –
a land featured in The Enchanted
specifically Alice in Wonderland,
Wood books, and guest favours
The Chronicles of Narnia, The
were bags of ‘toffee shocks’, as
Enchanted Wood and Charlie
originally made by Moon Face in
and the Chocolate Factory.
the same book. The catering was
The service was held at
by Countryside Catering, with
the beautiful, stunning St.
starters being a trio of ‘eat me’
Bartholomew’s in Brighton,
tartlets and mains being good
and the service included a
old-fashioned bangers and mash.
band, and a flash mob choir
For dessert each guest was
of friends singing ‘Oh Happy
presented with a vintage teacup
Day’. A touch of the unique was
and saucer and a ‘golden ticket’
brought to the proceedings with
that instructed the guest to
the romantic floral creations by
receive some ice cream in their
Greenfingers in Worthing and
teacup and then visit the ‘sweetie
a stunning dress from White
factory’ where they could
Leaf Boutique in Brighton, but
decorate their ice cream with
both the bridesmaids’ dresses
sweets, sauces and fruits.
(Debenhams) and groom’s suit
After-dinner entertainment
(Topman) were from the high
was provided by Flash Mob Jazz,
street. The guests then departed
whose incredible musicianship
to a stunning country house,
and tunes filled the dance floor
Great Ote Hall near Burgess Hill,
with merry revellers. And,
for a reception in tipis. Guests
for that final fairytale touch,
enjoyed strawberry scones and
guests were able to walk into
bubbly on the lawn, with lawn
a wardrobe and find themselves
games and Rockin’ Mark Vis
in ice cold Narnia. Guests danced
on honky-tonk piano.
late into the night as headline
The tipis were by Beautiful World Tents and the bride and
DJs the Dixon Brothers (Kiss FM) took to the decks.
34 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
WEDDING STYLE
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 3 5
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Aisle less Looking for something a bit different for your wedding day? Victoria Emerson goes in search of some less obvious choices from around Sussex
Trodden KODAK
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The
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very bride has their own vision of her 79
big day – we’ve been planning it since
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we watched Kylie and Jason tied the knot. Luckily for us, we live in Sussex, which has the most eclectic and eccentric range of wedding suppliers you can find. Whether you want
arm Coombes F
a traditional seaside theme, a twisted circus or a festival-style
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knees up, Sussex has it covered. If you want the hidden gems,
canvas ready for you to create your vision. There’s a huge
you’ve got to be a super Sussex sleuth, but luckily this Mother
field next door that is ideal for picnics, games, races, music
Hen has done the hard work for you. Allow me to present
and even camping and once again, you have complete free
Sussex’s best kept secrets….
reign as to the caterers you choose.
VENUES DUNCTON MILL FISHERY, DUNCTON
www.coombes.co.uk
THE WEDDING DRESS
This is a DIY wedding dream venue. Travel down a country
VINTAGE ORIGINALS AT HOPE & HARLEQUIN
path or two and Duncton Mill offers an incredible lakeside
This vintage bridal collection is for the bride who wants
location at the foot of the South Downs, ready for the marquee
something not only beautiful and fabulous, but also completely
of your choice. It provides the car park, gorgeous little rowing
original and entirely authentic. Its stunning collection of
boats to entertain the guests, lanterns around the lake and as
dresses is carefully sourced from all over the world. Each dress
much support as you need. The rest is up to you.
is restored, cleaned and can be altered or customised to create
www.dunctonmillfishery.co.uk
the perfect fit or updated for a more contemporary feel. www.hopeandharlequin.com
COOMBES FARM, LANCING The perfect boho and festival-style wedding location. Picture
JOANNE FLEMING DESIGN
the beauty of a fully working farm set within the South
Multi-award-winning Brighton-based designer Joanne
Downs, where you can have the use of a barn that is a blank
Fleming’s bridal collections are a Duchess’s French boudoir
36 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
WEDDING STYLE
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Joanne F
invite some willing wedding party volunteers to create a production line. Don’t be afraid to use everyday items to create a personal touch. My husband and I couldn’t find the perfect save the date cards to suit our Alice in Wonderland theme, so we created them using vintage keys, mini paying cards and ribbon!
THE HEN PARTY GLAMPING AT SWALLOWTAIL HILL FARM Not all brides want limousines, phallic inflatables, and tequila slammers for their hen 81
do. If you are a more discerning and adventurous
es Brighton Cak
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bride-to-be, you should consider glamping. Up to 16 hens can glamp in Swallowtail’s two cabins and cottages-on-wheels. You may like to stay right there and just soak up the peace and quiet but if you’d prefer a more active weekend then they will happily help organise an itinerary, which might include a bushcraft session on the farm, wine tasting at a local vineyard, a boat trip on the river, a woodland walk, a cycle ride, a horseback hack or a beauty treatment in nearby Rye.
of sumptuous silks, ostrich feathers and freshwater pearls,
www.swallowtailhill.com
bursting with romance and opulence. These unique dresses give a modern twist to the silver screen glamour of the
LINGERIE DECORATING WITH MAKEDOMENDERS
Thirties and Fifties and each bespoke or made-to-order
Makedomenders is a group of fantastically experienced
dress is lovingly handmade amid the sequins and Swarovski
tutors in a number of creative crafts and offers fabulous
crystals at the flagship showroom in the heart of Brighton.
hen party activities for the arty type. Its lingerie decorating
www.joanneflemingdesign.com
parties involve bringing along your precious panties and jazzing them up with ribbons, lace, beads and sparkles
THE WEDDING STATIONERY
under the watchful eyes of the pros! They can provide the
HOLLYHOCK LANE
basic customising materials or you can bring your own and
This alternative, vintage-inspired and beautiful eco-friendly
prettify to your heart’s content at this lacy workshop.
wedding stationery is created just for you. All designs are
www.makedomenders.co.uk
exquisitely hand-drawn and painted by illustrator and designer Julie Annis from her little cottage in rural Sussex.
THE FLOWERS
Choose from ‘The Collection’ for ready-designed personalised
PICK YOUR OWN AT SUSSEX CUTTING GARDEN
stationery or ‘Bespoke’ if you have your own ideas.
When planning my wedding, I couldn’t believe how much
www.hollyhocklane.co.uk
florists cost and was determined to do it myself. Luckily I stumbled upon the Sussex Cutting Garden, which offers
MAKE YOUR OWN!
a limited number of large buckets full of mixed cut flowers
Make your way to your local craft shop and get creative!
of your choice during the main season. It’s absolutely
Research different wedding blogs for inspiration and then
perfect for DIY table arrangements and so much fun! If
❝
Picture the beauty of a fully working farm set within the South Downs, where you can have the use of a barn that is a blank canvas
arranging flowers yourself seems daunting, they also offer consultations at the cutting garden where you can see where your flowers are grown and discuss what you have in mind. www.sussexcuttinggarden.co.uk ›› MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 3 7
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WEDDING STYLE
LITTLE LILLIES
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FLORAL SCULPTURES FROM If you are looking for something that isn’t a bunch of chrysanthemums in a matching vase, then maybe it is a floral sculptor you are looking for Sussex Cutting Garden 84
www.little-lillies.co.uk 84
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Bar
Hollyhock Lane
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NAKED CAKES AT BRIGHTON CAKES If you, like me, wince at the idea of a traditional too-sweet-
Cockatoo
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THE CAKE
84
materials – bark, coconut husks, moss… nothing is ruled out.
to-eat royal icing wedding cake, then it’s time to get naked. There really is nothing quite so nice as a Brighton Cakes’
spanning the decades and an in-house resizing service.
naked wedding cake – fresh vanilla sponge, layered with
I cannot recommend this place enough; the staff really knew
lashings of vanilla buttercream and strawberry or raspberry
their stuff and were so helpful. I now have the most beautiful
preserve, then covered with fresh fruit or flowers. Unlike a
Fifties platinum and gold ring that is totally unique.
lot of cake makers, it bakes your cake the day before your
01903 200751
wedding and then assembles it on-site as close to the serving time as possible to ensure it stays as fresh as humanly
THE CATERERS
possible. Delicious and so stunning to look at!
SIR SOFTEE FROSTEE ICE CREAM VANS
www.brightoncakes.com
For an alternative wedding dessert, how about surprising your guests with a traditional ice cream van that arrives
CHEESE CAKES AT PALLANT OF ARUNDEL
playing its nostalgic jingles? Gibbins Outside Caterers has
If you are a cheese lover, then you’ve come to the right place.
a whole fleet of ice cream vans and vintage bicycles on offer
Pallant of Arundel has created a slice of heaven with its
and can serve you everything from 99s and classic retro
ultimate cheese wedding cakes. Piled one on top of the other,
lollies to luxury Belgium chocolate ice creams. It not only
these heavenly towers of cheese can be made up of your
makes for a tasty treat but also a fabulous photo opportunity.
choice of cheeses, including Olde Sussex cheddar, Brighton
www.sirsofteefrostee.wordpress.com
Blue, Ashdown Forresters Oak Smoked and even heartshaped Coeur de Neufchâtel. Order fresh artisan breads,
THE COCKATOO BAR
biscuits and a selection of pickles and chutneys to go on the
If you want a totally unique bar for your wedding reception,
side and you will have your guests grinning from ear to ear.
then a beautifully converted 1965 Morris Ambulance,
www.pallantofarundel.co.uk
re-designed as a fully-functioning Cocktail Emporium is certainly that. The Cockatoo Bar is hosted by a flock of
THE RINGS
wild bird women, trained in both live performance art
JEREMY SILVERTHORNE FINE JEWELLERY COMPANY
and mixology and can be installed inside a marquee, on
When looking for our perfect wedding bands, my hubby
a lawn, on hard-standing and can even drive into some larger
and I searched far and wide for vintage and antique rings
wedding venues. A giant revolving birdcage sits above the
and were surprised to discover they are really hard to find!
mobile cocktail bar, and can set the stage for the first dance,
That was until we found Jeremy Silverthorne’s boutique in
the top table, the photo shoot or the wedding band.
Worthing, which has a collection of stunning antique rings
www.the-cockatoo.co.uk
38 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
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and greenery created by nature, often with the most unusual
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floral displays, using some of the most exotic beautiful plants
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Little Lillies creates incomparable
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rather than a traditional florist.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Bespoke Bridal Jewellery Specialist
A
t RTFJ, we appreciate how challenging it can be
stones that interest you and select the exact ones you wish
to find the right Wedding Ring for your perfect
for your ring.
wedding day. Now that you’re getting married or entering into
a Civil Partnership, why not let us take care of producing your dream ring, handmade to your specifications? It really could be cheaper than you think! Book a no-obligation consultation at our Sussex based studio and enjoy a glass of bubbly whilst you peruse our samples and discuss your requirements. View the diamonds or coloured precious and semi-precious
We’ll then discuss the limitless variations in which you can have it made, from metal colour and type to thickness and height, the settings and finger size. All handmade to order. Why not have your wedding ring fitted to your engagement ring? You’d be surprised how much the two could complement each other. This is a service only available from bespoke manufacturers. 2 Morehouse Business Centre, Wivelsfield, nr Haywards Heath, East Sussex. RH17 7RE Phone: +44 (0) 1444 471 380 E-Mail: info@rtfj.co.uk MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 3 9
This page: ‘Jeanne’ tea-length, Twenties-inspired dress by Joanne Fleming Design Opposite: Silk satin-back crêpe jacket and Dita tulle skirt by Halfpenny London On page 33: Sarah satin-back crêpe cowl-neck dress and lace veil by Halfpenny London
WEDDING STYLE
Love at
First Sight If the traditional ivory wedding gown isn’t for you, let us inspire you with the latest in contemporary bridalwear designs from across Sussex and London
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 4 1
Clockwise from top left: ‘Lily-Elsie’ by Joanne Fleming Design; ‘Margot’ by Charlotte Casadejus, £2,995; ‘The Harebell and the Bee’ by Joanne Fleming Design; ‘Zelda’ by Patrick Casey, £6,141
Patrick Casey and Charlotte Casadejus available at Churchgate 42 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Porter, Fletching 01825 722083; www.churchgate porter.com Joanne Fleming Design, Brighton 01273 683684; www.joannefleming design.com Halfpenny London, Bloomsbury, London 020 3441 8894; www.halfpenny london.com
WEDDING STYLE This page: Vera backless dress with antique lace back by Halfpenny London HALFPENNY LONDON PHOTOGRAPHY: CAT VINTON HAIR AND MAKE-UP: ENZO VOLPE MODEL: EMILIA FOX FLOWERS: VICTORIA FLOWERS JOANNE FLEMING PHOTOGRAPHY: JACQUI MCSWEENEY HAIR AND MAKE-UP: JENI DODSON LOCATION: SWEDISH INTERIOR DESIGN
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 4 3
LOOK SHARP Whether you’re something of a traditionalist or looking for a contemporary twist to your wedding attire, grooms are spoilt for choice this season
Slim-fit tails, hire from £85.99, buy from £499.99
Dinner suit, hire from £59.99, buy from £399.99
Lightweight fitted tails, hire from £85.99, buy from £499.99
Lightweight one-button lounge suit, hire from £85.99, buy from £499.99 44 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
WEDDING STYLE
Navy Lounge Suit, Matching Suit Waistcoat, Velvet Plum Tie Hire from £85.99 Buy from £499.99
2-button lounge suit, hire from £85.99, buy from £499.99
Semi-slim lightweight suit, hire from £85.99, buy from £499.99
Lightweight one-button lounge suit, hire from £85.99, buy from £499.99
William Hunt, Savile Row £699.99
William Hunt, Savile Row £699.99
William Hunt, Savile Row £699.99
ALL AVAILABLE FROM STEPHEN BISHOP SUITING, 28 HIGH STREET, WOKING, SURREY GU21 6BW 01483 728655; WWW.STEPHEN BISHOPSUITING.COM
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 4 5
Charity ON THE
catwalk
Walk in Wardrobe’s charity fashion event showcased the latest fashions as well as supporting some local charities
C
elebrating the new
Coming up next is the
summer collection as
Styling Event on 7th May,
well as spring bridal
which promises to be great fun,
fashions from Hove boutique
and perfect for anyone who
Walk in Wardrobe couldn’t have
would like some advice from a
been more fun. Hosted by Walk
stylist. You’ll have the chance
in Wardrobe owner, Katie Wilson
to rummage through an array
and celebrity stylist Carol Ives,
of fabulous dresses in all sorts
last month’s event at The Hove
of shapes, styles, colours and
Kitchen brasserie was a glorious
sizes, as well as a huge selection
charity fashion show and
of complementary hats and
afternoon tea, marrying two
accessories. Professional stylists
of our favourite things – cake
will be on hand, with tips on
and frocks. What’s not to like?!
what style of dress suits you,
What made it even better
advice on colours and so much
was that the event raised over
more. Again, this is a charity
£900 for local Sussex charities
event for Rockinghorse
Rockinghorse and Martlets
children’s charity, so dig deep!
Hospice at the same time.
If you like any of the outfits
Sussex Style is proud to
you see here, please get in touch
be associated with Walk in
with Walk in Wardrobe:
Wardrobe and over the coming
Walk in Wardrobe,
year we will be supporting these
31 Western Road, Hove
amazing charities alongside the
www.walk-in-wardrobe.co.uk;
Walk in Wardrobe team.
01273 775583
46 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
FASHION STYLE
Model behaviour Guests were treated to champagne and cakes, while viewing Walk In Wardrobe’s bridal and summer fashion ranges. Models included our very own Sam HarringtonLowe (left), who is also pictured celebrating a raffle prize with Sussex Style publisher, Seán Kane (centre)
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PHOTOGRAPHY: WWW.INSTANTFOREVER.CO.UK
The event was a glorious charity fashion show and afternoon tea, marrying two of our favourite things – cake and frocks. What’s not to like?!
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 4 7
BEAUTY STYLE
BLUSHING BRIDE Want to ensure your skin is at its best on the big day? Sam Harrington-Lowe finds the perfect products for you
This Works Perfect Eyes Recovery Cream £28 Your wedding day can be quite an emotional time – for you and your bridal party. Fight the post-tear inflammation with this recovery serum, which contains cucumber and soothing arnica. Available at Flint, Lewes and Ems Beauty Boutique, Rye
MAC Prep + Prime Natural Radiance £29 This is a must for any bride. Perfect for a long day wearing make-up, it’s a silky gel emulsion that improves foundation or powder application, and keeps it all in place! Available at www. maccosmetics.co.uk and MAC, Brighton
Topshop Beauty Sheer Lip in Alibi and Hunky Dory (left) £8 This wearable, butterysoft formula will deliver a delicate wash of nude to pouts – nothing too vivacious, perfect for spring brides. Available at Topshop, stores throughout Sussex
Clarins Truly Waterproof Mascara £21 Offering 12 hours’ hold for emotional brides (and guests). Stay away from panda eyes on your big day. Available at Debenhams and Boots, stores throughout Sussex
Darphin Youthful Radiance Camellia Mask £45 Boost your skin before the big day! Bursting with natural extracts, this has a smooth, creamy texture that leaves skin looking radiant, ultra-smooth and visibly defined. Available at www. lookfantastic.co.uk
Fenjal Classic Indulge and Replenish Crème Bath Oil £11.42 There’s something about weddings that brings out the traditional in us, and bath oils don’t come much more traditional than Fenjal, which is currently having a bit of a renaissance. Available at Boots, Sainsbury’s and Superdrug, stores throughout Sussex
FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT… Heaven Scent advice for brides – free, and includes a glass of bubbly! Visit a Jo Malone boutique for a bridal consultation with one of its senior stylists who will explain how to introduce scent into weddings. The consultation includes: Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Compact SPF 25 £30 Perfect for an even glow, this is make-up made simple. In a creamy compact, we love the way this CC cream goes on. Available at Clinique counters and House of Fraser, Chichester 48 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
discovering and creating a bespoke fragrance, how to scent a venue through candles, linen sprays and diffusers and choosing bridesmaids’ gifts. Available at Jo Malone, Brighton, Gatwick and London
s me
e
th
co . ere .. e H id br
Lily & Grace beautiful bridal collection provides the ultimate comfort for your wedding day. Choose from strapless bras, bridal briefs and thongs and of course suspenders, perfect lingerie for your big day plus other pieces that you will want to pack away for your honeymoon too! Come along for a free fitting and see our luxury lingerie perfect for your wedding day, night and honeymoon. The Studio • Lower Road • Forest Row • East Sussex • RH18 5ES
01342 822122
Did you know you can hire or buy a fabulous outfit at
Let our style team guide you through our NEW day wear collections in sizes 8 to 18 With Weddings and Ladies Days fast approaching, you will want to look your best
31 Western Road, Hove, BN3 1AF 01273 775583 www.walk-in-wardrobe.co.uk
with sustainable, cost effective heating systems
BEAUTY STYLE
Finishing touches
Nails are an essential part of your overall wedding look, so don’t leave them to the last minute, says nail expert Emma Myers
S
ummer is nearly here – thank goodness – and
Gel polish never fails
summer means weddings! We all look forward
The colours available in gel polish are just as vast as the
to a good wedding, but there is so much to prepare
colours in standard nail polishes and any good nail salon
– outfit, hair, gift, hotel booking, not to mention
will have a wide range to choose from. Gel polish lasts well
a babysitter. It’s not until the night before that you realise
and doesn’t chip, giving you peace of mind on the day.
– shock, horror – that you haven’t done your nails! I believe that your nails are as important as your outfit
Bridal nails
and can create more of a talking point than anything else.
In a recent survey, brides voted their nails as important as
If you are going for a DIY job then invest in a good quality,
their hair, so getting them perfect for the wedding day is
chip-resistant nail lacquer such as CND Vinylux from Sweet
paramount. With everything from nail jewellery to lace,
Squared, OPI or Seche. These are the brands used by a lot of
from 3D-roses to gold bands and from painted initials to
professionals, because of their long-lasting, non-chipping
stilettos, the variety is amazing. The one thing that I would
formulas, not to mention their huge array of colour choices
recommend is that if you are not used to wearing long nails
– so even if you’ve picked the brightest yellow frock to wear,
then don’t choose them to be enhanced just before your
you will find a colour to match!
wedding day. There is nothing worse than trying to get ready for the biggest day of your life and not even being able to pick
Go for the pro
up your lipstick. Always ask your nail technician to give you There are some amazingly talented nail
a trial run of the design too.
12-times UK Nail Champion, Gemma
Fully insured
Lambert, whose work is pictured here.
One last thing that is so important is to make sure that
The time and detail, not to mention the
you only use trained and fully insured nail technicians, to
skill, that goes into this nail art, is truly
ensure your nails are being looked after by true pros. Any
amazing. If you wanted to find a nail artist like Gemma to
professional nail technician will be happy to provide all
do your nails, you will need to book early as nail technicians
documentation and will be pleased that you asked to see it.
get very busy, especially around the wedding season. Do your
So, enjoy the wedding season. If you are getting married
research and ask around – there is never a better form of
then have a great day and remember: your nails are jewels,
advertising than word of mouth.
not tools – so look after them!
50 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
IMAGE COURTESY OF CREATIVE NAIL DESIGN INC
artists around these days, including
Feeling the pressure to put your ‘best face’ on for the photos?
Susie helps brides find a wedding day makeup look that’s gorgeously true to you. Hiring a professional makeup artist is one of most valuable things you can do for yourself on your big day. Susie trained at the London of College of Fashion and works one-on-one with each bride to help you find a look you love. Susie’s approach to makeup artistry is to emphasize the power of your natural features as well as your individuality.
No doubt you want to look PERFECT on your wedding day and the last thing you want to worry about is your HAIR. Enjoy the benefits and expertise of a fully qualified and experienced wedding hairdresser, who will bring you top hair salon services in the comfort of your home/venue or at lux One Hairdressing In Seaford there is a new Generation of hair salons. Our contemporary Metropolitan Style, with online booking available, and Free WI-FI Creative Wedding Hair Designs are our specialty and we have a fantastic Bridal Room where you can try out ideas for your complete look before the day 4 Broad Street, Seaford BN25 1LX Salon - 01323 891 700 Book at www.luxonehair.com or Email - reception@luxonehair.com
www.bridalmakeupbysusie.co.uk Tel: 07773 509496 Twitter: @BridalMUBySusie Instagram: @bridalmakeupbysusie Pinterest: BridalMUBySusie
Nail
TECHNOLOGY Bruzz is creating a buzz within the beauty world…
T
he nailbrush is a
the impregnated vanilla extract
bathroom essential,
keeps it – and your nails
yet although it
– smelling gorgeous too.
comes in many
Grubby nails (and fingers)
by containing all liquid within Above and opposite: Bruzz is available in hot pink, blue and white and retails at £11.95
the brush. It can be used on natural nails as well as acrylics, gels, gel polish, fiberglass and all
different sizes and materials,
will be a thing of the past with a
its design remains relatively
simple squeeze of liquid soap into
unchanged. That is, until now.
the centre of the Bruzz, making
Bruzz is a unique design, which
them really sparkle, and it can
The woman behind the brand
is registered and patented, and
also be used dry as a dusting
Bruzz was born when Emma
cleans the top, underside and tip
brush. The removable soft-touch
Myers, a nail and beauty
of the nail in one simple action.
bristles make it easy to clean –
therapist, couldn’t find anything
It nurtures nails with its multi-directional cleaning while
even dishwasher safe – for long lasting results.
the antibacterial bristles ensure
Unlike a standard
upmost hygiene as well as
nailbrush, the ergonomic
maintaining beautiful, healthy
Bruzz prevents excess
nails. Its gentle action gives a nail
water and soap spray
massage at the same time and
splashing the bathroom
52 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
kinds of nail art (including 3D) and even on toes.
better than a standard nailbrush. She worked with a design team, applied for the patent, design protection and trademark and after months of intensive testing, Bruzz is
ADVERTISING FEATURE
creating a buzz. She says: ‘Many nail technicians won’t use a standard nailbrush on a client as they cannot be sanitised properly and are hard on the nails. Bruzz is so easy to use – as a nail cleaning brush, a finger cleaner and a dusting brush. Clients will love them because
❝
Bruzz prevents excess water and soap spray splashing the bathroom by containing all liquid within the brush
there’s nothing more frustrating than your nails being dirty only a couple of days after having your nails done, and the only way to get the dirt out is to use the end of a cuticle pusher. It still amazes me that I have invented this product that actually works and does the job brilliantly.’
CONTACT US www.bruzz.com www.bruzz.com t: t: 0208 0208 677 677 7777 7777 e: Hello@bruzz.com e: Hello@bruzz.com MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 5 3
MIX IT UP
Treat your wedding guests to some fabulous cocktails full of natural ingredients, and you’ll help avoid over-indulgence, says AquaRiva Tequila’s Cleo Rocos
I
t’s a wedding! Fabulous!!
three cocktail recipes featured
What could go wrong?
here do not contain any added
The bride looks ravishing,
sugar. The Positive Margarita
the groom is divine and
is made using organic agave
so naturally the air will be filled
syrup, which is a natural fructose
with heady excitement, delicious
sweetener and also has a low GI
chatter and, of course, all sorts
rating. This is mixed with a high
of brewing tensions. There will
quality 100% agave tequila and
be tight outfits, stiff collars and
fresh lime juice, which means
hundreds of uncomfortable
there are no additives in it. This
shoes. And all this is happening
is a very popular and delightful
before your guests are even
wedding cocktail as it is
offered a drink. So the last thing
refreshing and clean and allows
you want is for your guests
your guests to gleefully become
to become ‘over-refreshed’ on
a favourite version of themselves.
gallons of champagne, fizzy wines or sugary cocktails. Many alcoholic drinks are
I have included a Fake Pink Gin as an option. This allows guests who do not want to drink alcohol
loaded with sugar and chemicals
to enjoy a cocktail that looks like
that promote over-consumption,
a party drink, although it does
which will unfortunately leave
contain a few drops of Angostura
your guests bloated, inebriated
bitters so there is technically the
and unnecessarily emotional.
tiniest bit of alcohol in it. Having
‘Tears and sick’ is an all too
jugs of this cocktail on hand
familiar combination, as is
means that your guests can have
‘heat and tempers’.
a stylish choice without looking
Cocktails are stylish, and a
like a party pooper.
good, clean cocktail makes for
Cocktail recipe imagery supplied
happier wedding guests – and the
by www.diffordsguide.com
54 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
DRINKS STYLE
RECIPES POSITIVE MARGARITA (For one)
• 3 5ml 100% agave Reposado tequila (I recommend AquaRiva, Herradura or Siete Leguas) 2 5ml fresh lime juice
• • 1 5ml organic agave syrup
(For 50 servings)
• 2 .5 bottles 100% agave Reposado tequila
• 1 .25l fresh lime juice (around 50 squeezed limes)
• 7 50ml organic agave syrup
Shake or stir all the ingredients
Pour ingredients into a jug and stir
together and serve in a rocks glass
well, serve in rocks glasses with lots
with lots of ice and garnish with
of ice and garnish with lime wedge
lime wedge or orange peel
or orange peel
MOSCOW MULE (For one)
• 3 5ml vodka
Cleo’s Party Tips 1) My first tip is the investment wee, which is popular with royals and VIPs globally. To avoid having to repeatedly go to the loo at a wedding, head to the smallest room before the event and do what you have to do. Then remain there for one minute more than you think you need to, and even when you feel that you don’t have a drop left to give, you will find that there is
(For 50 servings)
(I recommend Finlandia,
• 2 .5 bottles of vodka • 1 .25l fresh lime juice
Ketel One or Chase)
(around 50 squeezed limes)
• 2 5ml fresh lime juice • 4 dashes Angostura bitters • F ever Tree ginger beer to top
• 2 00 dashes Angostura
Shake first three ingredients with
Stir first three ingredients together
ice and strain into a tall ice-filled
in a large bowl with ice. Add ginger
glass. Top with ginger beer and
beer and stir. Serve each drink in a
stir. Garnish with a mint sprig
tall glass with lots of ice and garnish
or lime wedge
with a mint sprig or lime wedge
bitters (or to taste)
• 2 .5 litres Fever Tree ginger beer
FAKE PINK GIN (NON-ALCOHOLIC) (For one)
•O ne small bottle of tonic water (Fever Tree, Fentimans or 1724)
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters
(For 50 servings)
• 4 large bottles of tonic water • 2 00 dashes Angostura bitters (or to taste)
always a small amount left, which acts like a frequent trigger if you do not expel it from
Stir together in a tall glass
Stir ingredients together with ice
your bladder. Invest one minute now and it will
with ice and garnish with
in a large pitcher and serve in tall
dramatically increase the amount of time
a slice of lime or lemon
glasses with a slice of lime or lemon
you have before you need to go again. 2) My second tip is to never drink with dreary people under any circumstances. 3) My third and final tip is to always have three great stories to tell. It will take the pressure off meeting all those new relations!
❝
Cocktails are stylish, and a good, clean cocktail makes for happier wedding guests – and the three cocktail recipes featured here do not contain any added sugar MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 5 5
Wedding Fare
Looking for something a bit different – and locally sourced – to feed your wedding guests? Sam Bilton finds out how to give your wedding feast the edge over others
Y
ou’ve booked the
designs check out the creations
venue, found the
of Mia Tambini at Fat Cakes
perfect dress, ordered
Design in Worthing. Want a cake
the flowers and sent
shaped like a Doc Martin boot?
out the invitations. Now all you
Chatter - naked wedding cake
need to do is find an innovative
She’ll be happy to oblige. ‘I get my inspiration from all
way to feed and water your
over,’ says Mia, who has studied
guests. Fortunately, we live in a
art and interior architecture.
county full of creative people who
‘I like to get outside, look at
will ensure your day is original
nature, architecture, fashion,
and remembered by all involved.
patterns from anywhere… even the shape of a lamp post
Say it with cake
or pattern on somebody’s shoe
Everyone knows the bride is the
may hold the answer that I am
centre of attention in a wedding
looking for when stuck for ideas!’
party but surely a close second
Unique designs by F at Cakes
is the cake? Gone are the days of
Cooking up a storm
the three-tiered heavy fruit cake
Hog roasts have been popular
covered in shatter-proof royal
at all manner of celebrations for
icing. Today anything goes.
centuries. I’ve got nothing against
‘Fruit cakes only make a rare appearance at weddings
some terrific animals in Sussex
nowadays,’ explains Tess
so why not ring the changes with
MacMahon of Chatter Cakes in
a different kind of beast?
Eastbourne. ‘Couples are really
❝
I’m currently working on Mojito wedding favours as it’s the bride and groom’s favourite cocktail!
56 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
The first that springs to mind
getting excited about more
is lamb. Sussex Lamb has been
interesting flavours such as
rearing sheep in the county for
strawberry and elderflower
over 20 years. As an offshoot of
or ginger and butterscotch.’
its successful farming business
It’s not just the flavour of the
Sussex Lamb, yummm!!!
the humble hog but we breed
it has converted an old-style,
cake that is changing. A quick
mobile shepherd’s hut to cater
scan of the spectacular cakes on
for weddings and other events.
Tess’s website demonstrates that
As well as succulent burgers it
not everyone wants a traditional
can offer dishes such as lamb
wedding cake complete with the
tagine with couscous and
requisite bride and groom figures.
cucumber raita or glazed sizzling
For some truly innovative
chops served with a spicy dip.
FOOD STYLE
If a barbecue is more your thing and you fancy something with an American twang then look no further than The Little Blue Smokehouse. Although pulled pork remains its most
Sussex Sparkler!
popular menu item it also offers smokehouse chilli, pulled mutton and pastrami, all served with homemade pickles and a
Marshmal ow madness!
side of slaw with a soft challah
different and fun,’ says Kellie
bun. It sources all of its meat
Sutherland of I Love It Sweet.
and ingredients from local
‘We love working with brides
smallholdings and producers
to create something as unique
then brines, cures and dry rubs
as they are. I’m currently working
it before smoking it slowly over
on some Mojito wedding favours
oak. ‘I love the techniques of
as it’s the bride and groom’s
smoking and barbecue,’ says
favourite cocktail!’ Its marshmallows are created
director Martyn Cotton. ‘I have a passion for quality, seasonal produce and believe that it tastes better because it’s fresher.’
using products that celebrate
Lovely Sugar M
the best that Sussex has to offer,
ice ladies
including locally produced beer, spirits and even bacon! Its
Cheers!
most popular flavour is lemon
Toasting the bride and groom is
a boozy sorbet rather than
traditionally done with a glass
Champagne? This is just one
of Champagne. With Sussex
of the suggested uses from
boasting some of the best
enterprising friends Ruth Borg
sparkling wines in the country
and Ali Harvey who run the
(and indeed the world) why look
Sugar Mice ice cream caravan.
any further afield for your fizz?
The pair from Ditchling have
Above: From sweets to fizz, Sussex is home to a plethora of unique food and drink companies
meringue made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, swirled with zesty lemon curd and studded with crushed meringue. Other flavours include salted caramel, mudslide (a decadent mix of chocolate, Baileys and
lovingly restored a vintage
Kahlua) and candied bacon
several awards for its range of
caravan to sell a variety of
and maple syrup.
sparkling wines. Most recently
mouthwatering ice creams at
The Bluebell Vineyard has won
its Hindleap Brut Rosé 2010 came weddings, fairs and festivals in third in a competition to find
London and the South East. Their
the best English sparkling wine,
homemade ice creams include
beating 92 other wines from 47
chocolate brownie, pina colada
different producers. A beautiful
and sorbets such as gin and tonic.
pale salmon colour, it delivers wild strawberries and rose petals
For alternative wedding favours, why not try
on the nose and a clean crispiness marshmallows in place of the on the palate.
traditional sugared almonds? ‘People love the idea of
Sweet Treats
marshmallows because they
Have you ever thought of starting want something that’s personal your wedding breakfast with
to them. Something bespoke,
DIRECTORY .co.uk; 01825 791561 rd ya ne lvi el eb lu .b w ww .uk; 07817 608995 www.chattercakes.co 1 co.uk; 01903 52278 n. ig es sd ke ca at .f w ww eet; 07595 321802 w its ve lo /i m co k. oo www.faceb 72 327070 @littlebluesmoke; 077 ; 07983 409765 uk o. .c ed it im el ic m ar www.sug o.uk; tcateringcompany.c hu ds er ph he es .th w ww 01403 741366 MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 5 7
Get your
B
C RO KS ON Don’t know where to start when choosing your wedding rings? We asked award-winning contemporary jewellery designer Alexis Dove for her advice
ased in Lewes, East Sussex, Alexis Dove is an award-winning jewellery designer
who makes her collections by hand at her traditional workshop, which forms part of her shop, situated in The Needlemakers. All of Alexis’s jewellery is heavily influenced by her love of the What sort of rings are most
nature surrounding the South
It is important to consider a
Downs and her own curiosity
lot of different factors such as
and love of jewellery. She is
the customer’s job and lifestyle.
inspired by the jewels from her
Personal style is very important,
own grandmother’s jewellery
but choosing something that you
box and antiques that she owned.
will always love is important
There is a vintage sense of style
too, as you will be wearing the
sapphires and tourmalines. Halo-
throughout the collections, but
rings for a very long time. My
style rings with tiny pavé-set
the design remains on trend.
customers usually come to
diamonds are also very popular
me because they are looking
as they lift and compliment
How should a couple approach
for something unique that is
the central stone. Palladium is
choosing their rings?
personal to them. They also come
especially popular with men and
As a designer I always encourage
to me because they like the style
customers tend to be opting for
couples to come into my shop for
I work in, this is very important
slimmer rings. We are also seeing
a consultation, which enables
when choosing a designer.
a huge rise in customers looking
me to sit down and discuss their
A jewellery designer’s website
for something unique – having
ideas, but it also gives me a
is a very important tool for
a high street mass-produced
chance to understand what their
customers to look at the type
ring is becoming less popular
interests and needs are.
of thing they have made before.
as customers look to have
58 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Clockwise from top: Sapphire beaten rings, POA; vintage engagement rings, POA; Lydia pearshape ring, POA
popular for engagements and weddings at the moment? For me, the most popular styles include grey diamonds, rose-cut diamonds and unusual coloured
JEWELLERY STYLE
something that is unique and
Do you find people choosing
special to them.
alternative options or additional items of jewellery?
What is the average price that
Yes, we frequently sell
couples spend?
bridesmaids gifts, cufflinks and
Traditionally, an engagement ring
often design special items of
has always been a month’s wages,
jewellery for the bride or mother
however customers vary hugely
of the bride for the special day.
in what they want to spend and
Last year I designed an exclusive
we cater for budgets from £450
pair of earrings for Olympic
upwards. It is always good to
cyclist Victoria Pendleton for
have a budget in mind so that you
her to wear on her wedding
can narrow down what you are looking for. It is very important to me that customers with a small budget feel as comfortable as those with larger budgets and feel equally as valued and special when they are here.
❝
Clockwise from top: Foxy pendants, from £100; Beachcomber Urchin hoops, from £85; Dove Blossom Wren bangle, from £95; Curio Vintage Bunny pendant, from £100; Wild Rose ring, from £135; Blossom Lilac earrings, from £135; Aphrodite Leaf hoop earrings, from £75
Having a high street mass-produced ring is becoming less popular as customers look to have something that is unique and special to them
day, along with a tie slide for her husband. What is your own favourite style of ring? That’s a hard question. I can’t say I have a favourite really, I love all style of rings because I collect stones and am always excited about new designs and stones I have to work with. The most exciting part of my job is working with customers to come up with a unique ring that is right for them. It is a wonderful moment when a customer collects their ring and they see the finished item for the first time; it is the best part of my job.
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 5 9
THE GIFT LIST
Looking for wedding gift inspiration? Home furnishings specialist Rusdens has a range of stylish and contemporary items that are perfect for newly-weds
Aura, from Rusdens’ white collection. Rusdens has a sumptuous selection of sheets and bed linen. From £50
Vi-Spring mattresses and divans offer the ultimate in comfort, with specially made springs for support and the highest quality fillings for comfort. Rusdens offers the best prices around, from £1,280
This pretty hanging heart is decorated with bells and buttons, and would make a lovely addition to any room. £9 (small), £12 (large)
Christy Supreme towels are made from 100% Supima combed cotton, making them soft, fluffy and superabsorbent. From £3.50 for face cloths to £30 for bath sheets.
60 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
ADVERTISING FEATURE
This distressed white wall clock is perfect to accessorise a shabby chic or coastal décor. £25
Rusdens has an extensive range of duvets and pillows to suit every need; from natural goose down to the ultimate in synthetic fillings. Duvets from £42.50, pillows from £15
The Valentine range is a stunning 100% wool hand-tufted and carved rug. Available in four different colours. From £102
Textured dusky pink cushion with silk-feel flowers. Available in six colours. £27.50
Medium stainless steel lantern with double heart cut-out decoration, perfect to light up a summer’s evening. £50
Large mosaic crackled glass heart wall mirror. £195
Stunning life-like potted orchid spray in a ceramic bowl. £349
Invitingly soft and casual, the Catalina sofa is the ultimate in flexibility. A versatile corner unit system, it is designed to suit any home. Available in different sizes and fabrics.
87-89 London Road East Grinstead West Sussex RH19 1EJ T: 01342 325033 www.rusdens.co.uk
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 6 1
HOME STYLE
Your Care Questions Answered carers, and with surprising speed. Many customers receiving care will actively enjoy the company of someone new to support them in the house. Care services understand how important it is for both the customers and care worker to feel comfortable with each other. This is particularly important in the case of live-in care, so they work hard to create the right match. Q: I often see care workers in uniform. If a care worker lived in my house would they wear uniform? A: I would sincerely hope not. Care Q: I know I am getting older and I am
workers who visit customer homes
The right balance is usually to have
finding everyday tasks increasingly
wear uniforms – this is to present a
a main care worker who may work
difficult – but when do I need care?
professional service. A live-in care
for three weeks, and then to have a
A: This is a very personal matter, and
worker however is professionally care
member of the team for one week,
different people will decide this at
trained, but is also there as a personal
before your main support starts again.
different times. A good indication is
assistant – and may well join you
This is a tried and tested model and
to ask yourself what things you are no
out shopping, or to the hairdressers
works very well.
longer doing that you’d like to be. This
etc. Most customers would not want
may be going to the shops, standing in
to stand out in crowd and for it to be
Q: Who else would I generally see and
a shower or cooking. If you thinking
obvious they were accompanied by care
speak to beyond the live-in care worker?
about care, then it would be best to
support, so live-in care staff will wear
A: A leading agency would have weekly
speak to someone about it – call a care
normal relaxed clothing.
contact with both the customer and
company for a chat, they won’t charge
care worker, and would be doing
anything and you will learn a lot during
Q: If I were to consider live-in care
this in person around once a month.
the discussion.
could I get the same care worker
Having someone live in the house
all the time?
can create occasional tensions – and
Q: I am not used to having strangers in
A: It is important to all customers that
having someone else to speak to each
my house and I may find that difficult.
they get, consistently, the same live-in
week means this these matters are
How can you help with this?
care worker. This is not only important
never more than niggles, and dealt
A: Firstly it’s important to know that
to the customer, but also to the live-in
with quickly. At Bluebird Care we
it’s fine to raise this point – many
care worker. No live-in care worker
have positive customer and live-in care
people feel the same. The second point
would be assigned permanently – this
worker relationships lasting many year
is that the vast majority of people
would mean no time off and would
– testament to developing a form of
develop good relationships with their
ultimately be detrimental to all parties.
service that works.
62 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
LIVE IN CARE Caring for your lifestyle
LIVE-IN CARE
TO FIND OUT MORE CALL
Live-in care with Bluebird Care provides our customers with full-time live-in support. This provides a realistic alternative to residential care when full-time support is needed, and is completely flexible so that you, or your loved ones, can continue to enjoy an independent lifestyle in the comfort of your own home.
Chichester Eastbourne Haywards Heath Lewes
01243 839859 01323 727 903 01444 891135 01273 616494
www.bluebirdcare.co.uk APR IL 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE .C O M | 6 3
INTERIOR STYLE
BRIGHT IDEAS
S
Add a touch of tropical print to your home and every day will feel like a holiday, whatever the weather, says the Fabric Lady, Laura Jandac
o the sun has finally appeared and my husband,
Clearly my husband is a tad trendier than I give him
like so many others at the first sniff of sunshine,
credit for because as I looked around I spotted quite a few
announced that he was off to buy some shorts.
fabrics and furnishings that wouldn’t have looked out of
Having hibernated through the winter, the legs
place in the wardrobe. Sanderson (www.sanderson-uk.
were coming out. He informed me that I didn’t need to
com) has a fantastic new range called Voyage Of Discovery,
go with him, as he was more than capable of shopping
which includes a fabric called Floreanna (pictured above),
for himself. He is very soon to be 40 so I figured he had
and cannot fail to put a smile on your face. Designers Guild
a point. It seemed a good idea at the time.
(www.designersguild.com) can always be relied on for
Clearly not cut out for the sort of shopping marathon undertaken by the female side of the family, he returned a few hours later. I couldn’t quite believe what he’d bought. There was, I kid you not, a Hawaiian shirt in there and at least three pairs of Bermuda
❝
bright colours and Manuel Canovas (www.
Bright colour doesn’t have to be everywhere. Just a little touch can put a smile on your face
manuelcanovas.com) is equally as bright and cheerful. Curtains may be a little brave and perhaps expensive but you can achieve a similar result if you buy a few scatter cushions, new plates or even a shower
shorts. He was so pleased with himself. I was horrified.
curtain. This amazing parrot doorknob from Rockett St
I uttered the most hateful thing you can say to a man so
George (www.rockettstgeorge.co.uk) is a sure way to jazz up
proud of his accomplishment, ‘They look like a pair of
any cupboard and at just £20 each they won’t break the bank.
curtains!’ This comment is second only to ‘My dad has one
Bright colour doesn’t have to be everywhere to have an effect.
of those!’ My poor husband was mortified. I felt dreadful
Just a little touch here and there can put a smile on your face.
but they really were terrible. I wasn’t joking, though – they really would have made a cracking fabric for a cushion or an armchair, and it got me thinking. 64 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
And if the thought of my husband’s white legs in floral Bermuda shorts is enough to wipe that smile off your face, fear not. They have now been turned into some fabulous cushions and a beach bag! So all is not lost.
CuckfieldBathrooms presents Style Moderne by Samuel Heath a collection of taps and showers inspired by the iconic Art Deco design era of the 1920’s and 1930’s.
113 High Street, Cuckfield, Sussex RH17 5JX Telephone: 01444 414 888
www.cuckfieldbathrooms.co.uk
Photography- @tedtofield
Main: Style Moderne Freestanding Bath/Shower Mixer in Antique Gold Left: Duravit Happy D.2 basin & drawer unit c/w Dornbracht IMO basin mixer Right: Lefroy Brooks Metropole basin & Style Modern 3-Hole basin mixer in Antique Gold
Britain
MADE IN
Jess Denny from Spotted boutique in Steyning picks her favourite British-made design finds for May
Hampstead Heath tea set This teapot set relaxes and calms its users as it stands gracefully among any tea set. It will fit into any surroundings and conveys self-assurance as opposed to arrogance. £100, www.alimiller.co.uk
Boing bracelet Fabulous, fashionable and attractive rope wristbands, ankle bands and neckbands made from genuine sailing and climbing ropes. Simple but beautifully designed, these will appeal to men and women who love the great outdoors. £35, Spotted, Steyning
Roy cushion Introducing a luxury silk Welsh terrier called Roy! In 100% silk with a black velvet backing measuring 74cm tall and 36cm wide. £125, www.silkenfavours.bigcartel.com
Belle birdfeeder Birdball Belle has been designed to hold both large and small fat balls, fruit and kitchen scraps. It can also be used to hold nesting materials. Belle allows small birds such as tits, sparrows, nuthatches and finches to feed, yet deters larger birds. £24.95, Spotted, Steyning
Tin Can ceramic mug with karabiner handle This genius, quirky mug is the perfect hybrid of two widely used practical items. Inspired by a love of the outdoors and a desire to replace the throwaway, this precious bone china mug is as indispensible at home in the kitchen as on a ‘glamping’ trip. £15, Spotted, Steyning
66 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
DESIGN STYLE
Precious Pussies luxury silk cushion For cat lovers everywhere, Precious Pussies features cats in a heart-shaped design with a pale pink background on the front, black velvet reverse cover and mint piped edging. £95, www.silkenfavours.bigcartel.com
Ara mirrors Ara mirrors are made from acrylic and hang from a simple brass chain. Full of vintage influences yet timeless, with their clean, contemporary finish. £35, Spotted, Steyning
Ceramic pinch pots with wooden base Perfect for everyday table or kitchen use, these rusticyet-chic little seasoning pots are ideal for adding interest to any table or worktop. £22 for two, Spotted, Steyning
Boozy Bunny artwork Created using vintage beer mats, solicitors’ letters and shipping forecast books, each Boozy Bunny is totally unique. Each one is mounted in an obeche wood box frame and numbered, titled and signed by the artist. £70, www.emilymaude.com
Arthur The Dog On Wheels pull-along A beautiful wooden handmade pull-along dog on wheels. Perfect for the person who still relishes their childhood, this attractive pull-along will sit beautifully in any home. £50, www.emilymaude.com
Jojo hook Jojo porcelain wall hooks are incredibly strong – as strong as the screws you put in the wall, and will happily take the weight of a filled rucksack. These are a take on the kitsch Thirties three flying ducks, only more beautiful and functional. These ducks can face any direction, so you could have them in formation or simply having a little swim... you decide. £48, Spotted, Steyning
MAY 21014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 6 7
THE SKY’S
THE LIMIT Creating your dream home does not necessarily mean starting from scratch. In Yorkshire an imaginative architect has effectively delivered a new build home for the price of an extension and refurbishment
P
hotographer Iain Richardson and his wife Donna,
was a practical shape and size so I suggested building
a teacher, were looking in the Huddersfield suburb
upwards! This way we could re-use the existing foundations
of Almondbury for a project that would give them
and most of the existing external walls, saving them a lot
the larger home they would eventually need to
of time, effort and money.’
accommodate their future family. They bought the dilapidated bungalow at a property
The basic brief was to turn what was originally a 2-bedroom bungalow with limited living spaces into a
auction, recognising the potential of its large plot and mature
generous 3/4-bedroom, 2-bathroom, family home. Building
trees. Within days of the purchase they contacted their
upwards meant that this could be achieved without
architect friend Timothy Smith, with whom Iain had studied
compromising the garden and driveway space. ‘Initially the
art and who was by then a partner in his own successful
idea of building upwards seemed far too ambitious for our
London-based architectural practice Timothy Smith &
limited budget,’ says Iain, ‘but the architects built models
Jonathan Taylor. After visiting the site and knocking ideas
to explain to us how simple and efficient the construction
around in a local pub for various single story extensions,
would be, and how the staircase would actually help the
Timothy suggested a more radical approach.
layout of the floors. We were immediately convinced and
‘Extending a bungalow horizontally can end up with a sprawling building cursed with corridors or through rooms,’ says Timothy. ‘The basic footprint of the bungalow 68 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
we loved the way the ground floor rooms each have a clearly defined function but they flow together. The staircase is also open right up into the roof pitch,
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Light Up: Black brick piers give the building an elegant vertical proportion, and are separated by seven sets of French doors, which let the light into the living room (above left) and galleried study (above right)
which brings plenty of daylight into the heart of the house and gives a great sense of space and drama.’ ‘Building upwards also provided the opportunity for us to radically alter the character of the building.’ explains Timothy. ‘The street is characterised by detached suburban houses and bungalows and we didn’t want to disrupt this setting with a “statement” building. It was also important that the project gained planning permission quickly as Iain and Donna were paying the mortgage on their previous house. I’m happy to say that it flew through the planning system with no difficulties!’ While on the front façade the existing walls and openings were maintained – albeit with lower window sills to give better light and views – it is at the rear of the property that the architects have really made their statement. Black brick piers give an elegant vertical proportion and a bold appearance to the garden. The piers create window seats to the living room and a galleried study space at first floor level, with seven sets of French doors letting in plenty of light and air. The upstairs layout was planned in advance to enable a partition to be built to turn the study area into a smaller fourth bedroom. Not only did building upwards make efficient use of the budget, but it is an environmentally robust approach too. As Timothy explains: ‘The house is significantly upgraded in terms of thermal efficiency, with a highly insulated roof, insulated walls (the original wall cavities were hollow so insulating foam was blown into them) and new double-glazed windows. However, the real environmental benefit is that ›› MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 6 9
Going up: Building upwards let the architects dramatically alter the character of the building, and the ground floor rooms (opposite) all flow together
so much of the original superstructure was re-used; the design takes the bungalow’s footprint and shell to create something completely new, without the waste of demolition and re-build which could have been a temptation. A generous amount of daylight means that artificial lights are required only in darkness and the house is naturally ventilated by the stack effect provided by the stair volume and opening rooflight above.’ Iain is very proud of his log-burning stove, situated in the hearth in the heart of the house. ‘In the winter I can put a small log in there and close the door tight and it will keep the house warm all day; we hardly ever use the central heating!’ For cost reasons the project was procured as a self-build, with Iain and Donna engaging a local builder for the superstructure and individual tradesmen thereafter. ‘It was definitely worth having a full set of very detailed drawings to guide us and clearly define scope of project,’ says Iain. ‘This helped us to source and supply many of the materials directly. Timothy and Jonathan visited site intermittently during the build and advised on any changes to the design during construction – but we are happy to report that these were minimal!’ ‘We often work with our clients to design interiors that augment the architectural design,’ explains Timothy. ‘Unlike many architects we have a keen interest in colour and pattern but in this case we were confident that Iain and Donna’s natural creative flair would result in a clean contemporary look but with their eye for colour, texture and pattern giving a comfortable and welcoming interior.’ A lime green BoConcept sofa is perfect for lounging in and looking out of the windows of the double-aspect living room. Elsewhere, the architects have used internal windows from different rooms into the stair void to increase the sense of space and give wider views of the surrounding countryside. ‘These features are so easy for a client to see as “extras” that can easily be cut out, but they transform the nature of the house and add surprise and delight,’ says Timothy. Since completing the house Iain has commissioned Smith & Taylor to design a photography studio for the garden, which was designed to complement the main house and, until the children grow up and demand it as their den, it means Iain can stay local while he works. The house was a finalist in the Royal Institute of British Architects’ regional awards and in the Architect’s Journal Small Projects competition, so not only is it perfectly accommodating the Richardson family, but the imaginative solution has been recognised in the design fraternity, too.
70 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
ADVERTISING FEATURE
KEY SUPPLIERS ARCHITECTS Timothy Smith & Jonathan Taylor LLP www.smithandtaylorllp.com; 020 7241 1494 PHOTOGRAPHY Iain Richardson 07712 284995 BUILDER Neil Turton, Hopton FURNITURE BoConcept www.boconcept.com WINDOWS AND KITCHEN FRONTS Wood & Laycock www.woodandlaycock.co.uk
Come
❝
Is there a scent more evocative of summer than the smell of cut grass?
Outside With fine weather on the horizon, Sofie Allsopp shows you how to create your own piece of Eden
S
pring has definitely
edging, not to mention the right
had some false starts
amount of sun – there is a science
this year – one moment
to creating and maintaining
you’re peeling off
that emerald grass. My lawn in
your 70-denier tights and
London was impossible – the
contemplating the first Pimm’s
neighbours’ walnut tree blocked
of the year, the next you’re
out the light and the grass never
huddled in a bus stop trying
really got going.
to shelter from hailstones large
The solution? Artificial lawn.
enough to concuss Ricky Hatton.
What it lacks in softness it makes
But that is behind us by May, one
up for in ease and good looks. It
of the finest months of the year,
takes about a day to install. There
which is blessed with bluebells,
is no mowing, no watering and no
birdsong and the promise of
mud – it is green year-round and
summer. It’s also time to get
is pet- and child-friendly.
reacquainted with the great
The Artificial Lawn Company
Opposite: Big Green Egg barbecue £675; Walker Tweed picnic rug £28; Willow picnic hamper £150; recycled wool picnic rug £20; Maison wool picnic rug £65; Willow hamper (basket only) £18, all John Lewis Below: Medium Pompeii Planter from Garden Trading
filled with lavender, box hedges, rosemary, olive trees, a palette of sage greens and faded blues, the smell of herbs and the sun on your face. Although we can’t guarantee sun, it’s still possible to recreate a corner of Provence in Sussex. While olive trees do prefer a Mediterranean climate they grow happily in pots in the UK, placed in the sunniest part of the garden with some protection from north and east winds. Garden Trading makes some of the prettiest pots I have seen, in a wide variety of materials –
outdoors and spruce up your
has an extensive grass range
from cast iron to teak. A set of
garden for the barbecue season.
from the inexpensive Easy Lawn
two Medium Pompeii Planters
(£16.95 per sq m) to the Luxury
(£85) and a couple of olive trees
of summer than the smell of cut
Is there a scent more evocative
Lawn (£27.95 per sq m). Bald,
would look wonderful on
grass? For me there is almost
muddy, brown back yards will
a balcony, patio or garden.
no greater pleasure than lying
be a thing of the past, and
If your outside space is a bit
on a perfect lawn in the sun –
the grass is so realistic the
on the bijou side then you could
but the perfect lawn is no easy
neighbours will never know.
do worse than Dobbies’ Folding
feat; it takes serious dedication.
In my mind, heaven is a
Bistro Set (£99) – two chairs and
Weeding, watering, cutting,
Provençal garden: terracotta pots
72 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
a little café table in a subtle sage ››
HOME STYLE
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 7 3
HOME STYLE
❝
Although we can’t guarantee sun, it’s still possible to recreate a corner of Provence in Sussex green. Buy some cheap terracotta pots from your local garden centre, paint them in a variety of colours and plant herbs or flowers, then arrange at different heights around your garden or balcony for an established higgledy-piggledy look. Historically, we are a nation of picnickers rather than grillers. Across the pond they take barbecuing seriously – no £5 disposal trays; their yards resemble outside kitchens, with grills the size of cars. However, we are finally catching up – the likes of Jamie and Hugh are constantly extolling the merits of outdoor pizza ovens and our barbecues are raising their games. For me there is only one outside cooker you need: it’s big, it’s green, it looks like an egg and, for some reason, it’s called The Big Green Egg. It is the ultimate grill and it cooks everything from steaks to pizzas, whole chickens
trampolines in various stages
to casseroles, and its design is
of dilapidation – giant eyesores
modelled on the domed clay
that are both lethal and, for
cooking vessels that were used
the most part, only fleetingly
by the Chinese Qin Dynasty.
used. Tree houses and forts, on
I was first introduced to it by
the other hand, are the perfect
my sister, Kirstie, who is a card-
garden addition. When I was young my father
carrying member of the Egg fan
Above: Playhouse on a raised platform, from The Playhouse Company Below: Dobbies’ Folding Bistro Set in green
than our actual home. The Playhouse Company builds incredible tree houses, forts, castles and dens. If you can think it up, they will create it – from the simple and beautiful clapboard toddler house (£980), to castles on raised platforms
club. Having sampled hot pizza
built us a tree house. I spent
and tree houses fit for an army of
straight out of the egg, I, too,
hours playing in it, and even
Ewoks. These wooden creations
have been converted.
smoked my first cigarette there.
will not only give your children
When we moved,
years of pleasure but
train between Edinburgh and
I think I was sadder
they will also provide
London. Staring out of the
to be saying goodbye
window you see thousands of
to the tree house
I spend a lot of time on the
74 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
a welcome alternative to the iPad and Xbox.
YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT KITCHEN STUDIO
The Kitchen People 61 The High Street, Lindfield West Sussex RH16 2HN Tel: 01444 484 868 Email: paul@kitchenpeople.co.uk
www.facebook.com/kitchenpeople @kitchenPsarah
PICTURE
PERFECT Victoria Emerson heads to the picturesque, fairytale town of Arundel, before hitting the beach in charming Littlehampton
Tell us about it…
owned and lived in by the Duke
This is a town fit for romance.
of Norfolk and his family for
Not a romance of an everyday
the past 850 years, and remains
nature, but a fully-fledged
the official residence even now.
blockbuster movie fairytale
Today, Arundel attracts visitors
train station is about a 10-minute
romance of epic proportions.
and residents from far and
walk (in heels) away from the
The entire hillside cathedral
wide who marvel at the town’s
town centre and trains come
town is built like an artist’s
cornucopia of indie boutiques,
and go direct from both London
impression of ‘happily ever after’,
galleries, cafés and restaurants-a-
Bridge and London Victoria and
with Arundel Castle, its fantasy
plenty, as well as the thriving arts
take about 90 minutes.
fortress, standing tall at the top.
scene and yearly festivals.
Its gothic setting and the
Aside from serving as a home
Although Arundel offers the whole family some fantastic
picture-book turrets of the castle
for the Duke, the castle now
facilities for days out, shopping,
create a stunning silhouette,
opens its doors to the public
community activities and
and as you get closer you cannot
throughout the spring and
clubs it falls a little short on
help but be charmed by the
summer season, with its stunning
schools in the immediate local
higgledy-piggledy winding streets,
beautiful gardens, 14th-century
area. Primary school-wise, you
appearing almost like a chapter
chapel and medieval castle keep.
needn’t travel far as the Ofsted
list of the town’s social history. The castle itself has been
If you’re thinking of nesting in Arundel, then commute-wise, the
78 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
‘outstanding’ Arundel Church of England School is highly
ARUNDEL STYLE
On the market
Gastro delights Visitors to Arundel are spoilt for choice when it comes to restaurants and, best of all, they are nearly all independents, apart from Prezzo. Standing to attention on the High Street, facing Arundel Castle is The Town House, a European finedining restaurant of high ranking, commended by anyone that matters, including the AA,
11 Surrey Street £330,000
Visit Britain, the Michelin Guide
A flint cottage built by Napoleonic
– and now me!
prisoners of war. It offers a lounge/
We chose to dine at The Bay
dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms
Tree, as it had come highly
and a family bathroom.
recommended by the locals. It really wasn’t difficult to see how it’s achieved its glowing reputation. Located in quirky Tarrant Street, the 16th-century
regarded by the locals. When it comes to secondary schools it pays to travel a little further afield. Firstly there is the famous Lancing College, just outside Worthing, which has produced outstanding results for many years. Or, for an option that can actually prove more
Clockwise, from left: The elegant Bay Tree restaurant; the stunning Arundel Castle; the individual Town House
building oozes elegance and
charm. We visited on a slightly
8 Park Place £485,000
chilly April evening, and so the
A Grade II-listed 3-bedroom double-
cosy and romantic interior suited
fronted cottage, built in circa 1530s
us perfectly, however there is
and situated opposite the stables in
a stunning terrace for those al
the heart of Arundel.
fresco summer evenings. The food here is perfect and guests are treated like members of an extended family – probably something to do with the fact that most of the staff have been 61 Maltravers Street
there for many years.
Offers in the region of £1,950,000
If it’s good pub grub you are
affordable, the renowned Christ’s
after then I would go as far as
A Grade II-listed 7-bedroom Georgian
Hospital, south of Horsham,
saying The Black Rabbit will
townhouse in excess of 5,800sq ft,
is an excellent choice. Here,
knock your socks off. Sitting right
with views to the coast. A much-
‘independent education of the
on the bank of the River Arun,
loved family home for over 30 years.
highest calibre’ is available
this pub is a local institution –
All Sims Williams,
with pupils’ fees being assessed
not just for its great selection of
www.simswilliams.co.uk;
according to family income.
beers and ales plus the high- ››
01903 885678 MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 7 9
ARUNDEL STYLE
Where to shop
quality staple pub fare menu,
Anything for little ones?
but for its stunning views of the
Arundel is a potterer’s paradise,
Arundel is swarming with
castle, the river and the area’s
hoarding antique shops, markets
activities for the kids all year
wildlife. Then there are the cafés
and an incredible amount of
long, including boating at the
and tea rooms. Arundel is riddled
independent and very luxurious
beautiful Swanbourne Lake,
with them, all with vintage
homeware boutiques. For clothes,
wildlife-watching and boat safaris
interiors and offering exceptional
Envy Boutique is pretty chic and
at Arundel Wetland Centre and
cream teas. Of the huge selection,
fresh, and in Tarrant Square,
outdoor swimming at The Lido.
we chose Lulamae’s, lured by the
Squibbly Biskit has an amazing
Arundel Castle also holds very
kitsch interior, bountiful cakes
range of children’s clothing.
popular Pirates and Smugglers
on the counter and fun little
For interiors, be sure not to
vintage nick-nacks for sale.
miss the Antiques Market at
Nineveh House. Foodies are well
Days throughout the year.
? You wouldn’t know this but…
Put your glad rags on for…
catered for at Pallant of Arundel,
Arundel’s Catholic Cathedral
Choose from murder mystery
an indie specialist food shop that
was built in 1868 and was
and comedy nights at Arundel
champions small local producers
designed by Joseph Hansom,
Jailhouse, theatrical tour de
and has cheeses bigger than your
who designed the first taxi.
forces at the Arundel Playhouse,
head, or at the wonderful local
Jazz lunches at Sage restaurant,
family-run Arundel Butchers,
upmarket cinema screenings at
which prides itself on its finest
Arundel Town Hall or live music
quality sausages.
at The Eagle pub every week. The crowds arrive in the
❝
The entire town is built like an artist’s impression of ‘happily ever after’, with its fantasy fortress standing tall at the top
summer, when Arundel Festival marches into town. Arundel Castle takes centre stage, playing host to four days of concerts, plays and exhibitions in the grounds and around the town. Picnics, Pimm’s and Shakespeare under the stars is a must. Pamper and stay The aforementioned Town House is number one for ultimate splendid decadence,
Littlehampton
with individually designed
We couldn’t look at Arundel without mentioning Littlehampton. The seaside area is only
rooms starting at a surprisingly
a few miles south of Arundel and bringing the addition of a seaside space into the equation
reasonable £130 a night. If you
rounds off the area’s offerings. Together, Arundel and Littlehampton have everything –
would like something a little
castles, river, shopping and seaside!
cosier, then the Norfolk Arms is
Littlehampton seafront is a lovely walk, and is home to one of the bravest buildings
very central and offers chintzy
we’ve ever seen, in the form of the East Beach Café. If shopping is more your thing, then
rooms from only £50 a night,
tear yourself away from the stunning beach views and dive into the town centre. Here
and if you prefer the intimacy
you’ll find a wealth of independent shops such as L. Guess Jewellers for beautiful bling. Silk
of a B&B then April Cottage just
Road restaurant adds a touch of the Mediterranean if you’re eating out, or if you’re feeling
down the road on Crossbush Lane
adventurous, Coastal Cycles bike hire will give you the opportunity to explore the stunning
comes with high praise.
seafront and get fit at the same time!
80 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Stylist Independent Ladies Boutique. Designer Clothing Labels from Italy, Paris & the UK Tel: 01903 882 642 Envy-Arundel
BAILIFFSCOURT HOTEL & SPA
I
Sussex Style’s hotel inspector, Julie Burchill heads to Climping, where its luxurious hotel makes up for its less-than-luxurious name ’ve always been partial
trying to get back to Grimsby.
to a pretty place name.
Since moving to Sussex 20
When I lived in London,
years ago, I’ve avoided Steyning
I was pleased to ask the
and Fulking like the plague,
Above: The gorgeous spa with its impressive interior design
Less than an hour from Brighton, it’s somewhat like stepping into Game Of Thrones, without the orgies and slaughter (this time,
cabbie to take me home to the
though apparently they’re very
Angel or Bloomsbury rather than
pretty. I once felt this way about
Cockfosters or Balls Pond Road.
Climping too – it sounds like an
And that classic song of ennui ‘Do
injury a woman might sustain
loathes spas. This beauty makes
You Know The Way To San José?’
while attempting to do the
nonsense of the modern epidemic
wouldn’t have sounded half so
splits – but Bailiffscourt Hotel
of so-called ‘spa hotels’, which
lovely if the chanteuse had been
changed that some years back.
are just regular flop-houses
82 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Right: One of the 39 beautiful bedrooms
anyway) but with extremely good cocktails and a gorgeous spa – and I speak as one who
HOTEL STYLE
‘with a photo of a pebble on the
does not go hand-in-hand with
reception desk’, as one wag said.
having some hyperactive brat
Best of all, Bailiffscourt has
repeatedly yelling ‘I want to
– or no – sea swimming, but
Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa, Climping, West Sussex BN17 5RQ, 01903 723511, www.hshotels. co.uk
Bailiffscourt is just five minutes from the beach and accessed
a gorgeous swimming pool –
do a poo!’ across the otherwise
two, to be precise, side by side,
tranquil pool area while dive-
separated by a wall of glass,
bombing the affronted bathers,
one inside and one outside.
as I have sadly witnessed in
There’s a lovely decked veranda
other high-end establishments.
or buildings as far as the eye can
overlooking it, where you can
I don’t hang around children’s
see, but Atherington beach, just a
order drinks and admire the
playgrounds spoiling their fun,
few minutes along the coast, was
spectacle of sterner souls exerting
and in return I expect them to
recently named seventh best in
themselves through rosé-wine-
keep their distance from the
Britain by Sunday Times Travel.
coloured glasses.
hard-earned privileges that my
And, to extend this civilised motif, children may only swim during restricted hours and must be kept on leads, sorry, ACCOMPANIED by adults at all times. It’s lovely to be in a place that openly acknowledges that the reason most people go to expensive hotels is to RELAX, and that for most people, relaxation
by a woodland pathway. It’s somewhat disorientating to discover a part of the South Coast coastline where there are no cars
OK, so it’s not really Medieval
particular playgrounds should
at all, and it was built as a folly
bring with them.
in the Twenties by the Guinness
Often, I find that hotels that
family – but with its peacocks,
have excellent pools have bad
four-posters, brilliant food and
❝
all-round gorgeousness, I could
There’s a lovely decked veranda where you can order drinks and admire the spectacle of sterner souls exerting themselves through rosé wine-coloured glasses
have stayed at Bailiffscourt forever. Even if the name DOES suggest somewhere that staying in too many luxury hotels will make sure one ends up in.
MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 8 3
Jointhe
PARTY Now bigger than ever, this year’s al fresco Steyning Festival has something to entertain the whole family. Here are just some of the highlights…
W
hat better
all on the menu from 1.30pm.
place to be on
As well as an open day at
a beautiful
Steyning Grammar School, a free
summer’s
Enviro Green picnic is planned
afternoon than strolling through
on St Cuthman’s Field from 1pm,
one of West Sussex’s gems,
and the green-fingered among us
Steyning, with its stunning
will no doubt be tempted away
15th-century architecture,
by plant and vegetable sales (and
quaint thatches and pretty
a BBQ) at the nearby Canada
cottage gardens? This will be the
Gardens’ allotments.
backdrop to Steyning’s largest
On Sunday 25th,
ever arts, cultural and community
we’re promised the
festival, with 120 events planned
typically English
from 24th May to 8th June.
sound of leather on
Unusually, for such a
willow as Steyning
quintessentially English affair,
takes on the Harry
there is a big emphasis on the
Baldwin Occasionals
outdoors. Inspired by Spanish
XI, founded by actor/
fiestas and Caribbean carnivals,
writer Michael Simkins
Steyning is embracing the open-
and featured in his Fatty
air festival spirit this summer!
Batter book (2pm).
Drums and Samba music will
Sunday’s other offering
sports club sessions, live music bands and children’s activities. Su ss ex St yl e is th e of fic ia l m agaz in e m ed ia pa rt ne r as soci at ed w ith th e St ey ni ng Festi va l
Bring your own picnic or enjoy cream teas and upmarket fast food from the likes of Pizza Oven and Vintage Ices.
be heard alongside bell-ringing,
might not sound as peaceful
as the Steyning Festival bursts
but rest assured, the ‘Roam on
into life on 24th May with a
the Rifle Range’ is not dangerous
THE BEST OF THE REST
Children’s Parade through the
and there has long been a
A famous cultural tradition
town, featuring giant animal
ceasefire! (3pm).
at the Steyning Festival is its
figures and hundreds of local children in costume (11am start). The Chanctonbury Ring
Theatre Trail, named for the
On Bank Holiday Monday, Steyning’s tradition of outdoor partying is being revived with a
Morris Men will dance their way
giant Community Fun Day and
along the route before stopping
Picnic on the Memorial Playing
off at The Star Inn’s family fun
Field. Watch out for wacky races,
party, where jugglers, puppetry
including the hilarious Cuthman
and music from local bands are
wheelbarrow race, ‘have a go’
84 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Above: The town’s legendary wheelbarrow race is named after the town’s Saint Cuthman; children enjoy dressing up for the parade and craft activities
first time this year after the late founder of the Festival, Ann Poupard. The sell-out Theatre Trail involves a small audience strolling around the historic town watching scenes from new plays in different locations such ››
FESTIVAL STYLE
as people’s private homes and gardens or cafés, museums and marquees. It encourages new playwrights and new perspectives on drama every time! (1st and 8th June; £30 including lunch) The popular Art Trail will attract visitors from far and wide (see www.steyningarts. co.uk for information) over the three weekends of the Steyning Festival and will feature open house displays of work by local artists, ceramicists, jewellerymakers and sculptors. Poetry in motion enthusiasts, Lyn Martin and Linda Johnson, will lead the Poetry Trail on 29th May (10.30am) for budding writers
expert, Andrew Armitage,
the estate’s sparkling wines.
and verse lovers, who are invited
who loves teaching people
Local produce, including
to bring along works to read.
to distinguish between
cheese, meat, bread and
the dawn chorus songs
dairy products will be
the Storytelling Walk at Daylands
of the nightingale,
on offer along with
Farm, Ashurst, organised by Jamie
whitethroat and
festival fun at Steyning’s
Crawford, who is known for
yellowhammer. Breakfast
regaling tales of hunters, pedlars
will be cooked campfire-
and farmers in his own unique
style (28th and 31st May).
Off-roaders should also enjoy
style. (1st June, 4pm). Creative juices will be flowing,
round the historic gardens at
The legendary Steyning Scandals Walk (1st June, 10am),
too, at the outdoor Creative
led by Janet Pennington, also
Writing Workshop led by writer
involves rambling, but around
Emma-Jane Hughes on 7th June
the town’ streets and twittens
(10am), again combined with a
this time, to hear who did what
ramble through the countryside.
to who – and it is definitely not
For those who enjoy the
Farmers’ Market on 7th June. There is also a tour
suitable for children! Janet, a
Wiston House (29th May, 3pm) Above: Local produce on offer at Steyning’s Farmers’ Market; the town enjoys a street party, pictured here celebrating The jubilee in 2012
and an exploration of the trees and arboreal development on the estate (5th June, 11am). Glorious views of the grounds can also be enjoyed by lucky ticket-holders as they wander up the driveway to the 1614 Dance at Wiston – the
rolled-up sleeves type of outdoor
local historian, goes on to lead
unique finale event of this year’s
activity, the Steyning Downland
a pub crawl with a difference on
Steyning Festival on 8th June.
Scheme has plenty to offer. On
3rd June (7pm) as she traces 700
Become a friend of the Steyning
30th May (2.30pm) visitors can
years of local pub and brewing
Festival to benefit from early bird
see the progress so far and on 7th
history ending at The Chequers
booking from 17th April (Contact
June, those inspired by this trip
for a well-deserved pint.
Jenny Toomey: jenny.toomey@
can join the rangers and work on some conservation tasks (9.30am). Early birds and bird-watchers
Glasses will be raised at
hotmail.co.uk; 01903 814167).
Wiston Estate Winery on 27th
Tickets go on sale on 22nd
May and 6th June (2.15pm) when
April at the Steyning Bookshop
alike will delight in Songs of the
winemaker Dermot Sugrue
or online. For full arts, cultural
Dawn, an early morning (7am
invites guests to walk through
and community events details go
meet) walk with feathered friends
the vineyard and taste some of
to www.steyningfestival.co.uk MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 8 5
MUM ON THE RUN Starting school means your child’s circle of friends suddenly gets a lot bigger… and then they start coming over for tea, discovers Laura Jandac
M
y son started school in September. It’s been a huge learning curve for him – but also more than a bit of a learning curve for me too. Our life suddenly seems to be just that
bit more rushed these days and the endless lists of things to remember to take to school on any particular day is a challenge for anyone. Cardboard boxes on Monday, a teddy bear on Tuesday and it was a torch last Wednesday. I don’t feel that Sundays belong to me anymore, as I fight my way through the pile of school uniform requiring laundering ready for the week ahead and attempt to pin my son down to try a bit of reading at the table. He’s also gone from a small, select group of friends to a class of 35, so we now have a birthday party virtually every weekend and there is an endless stream of little people coming for tea. With my son’s few nursery friends you quickly got to know what made them tick, their personalities and their foodie know anything about these children and yet they arrive
it’s time for his new friend to go home. He has another friend
expecting five-star service, 24-hour entertainment and
who is clearly a Bill Gates in the making. He will seek out
a Michelin-starred tea. I have also started to realise that
all electronic equipment, laptops, iPads and even a disused
my son behaves quite differently with different friends –
television and attempt to disconnect any cables and wires
to the point of being unrecognisable on occasion.
so that he can reconnect them. He’ll try to re-tune the main
He has one friend who, when over for tea, just makes for
television and will connect up the iPod to the sound dock
a manic and loud afternoon. The two of them will charge
and go through my (more than a little embarrassing) music
around the (very small) house. The word poo is beyond
collection. He has just turned five. My son thinks it’s great
hilarious and they will argue like a married couple until
but doesn’t have quite the knowledge of his friend so when
86 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
ICONOGRAPHY: LUIS PRADO
likes and dislikes. But I am now in unknown territory. I don’t
FAMILY STYLE
❝
I don’t know anything about these children and yet they arrive expecting 24-hour entertainment and a Michelinstarred tea
everyone has gone to bed my job is to plug everything back in and generally put the house back together.
being bossed around and cries every time she goes home. I’m probably only halfway through the list of potential
My son also has a new girlfriend who only ever wants to
candidates coming over for tea and I am excited to see who
play with what he is playing with and insists that she should
I meet next and what side of my son’s personality they will
be able to because she is the guest. She wants to choose what
bring out. I’m worried that I will get a reputation for only
to have for tea because she is the guest and even wants to
serving pizza (because I’m banking on everyone liking it),
choose which plate to eat it from because she is indeed the
but the more I get to know these children the more I can
guest. It’s a little like having Veruca Salt for a playdate – but
relax. He is enjoying school and making friends – and for
of course my son adores her and actually seems to enjoy
that I am eternally grateful. MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 8 7
TIME T WAKE UP How much sleep do our teenagers really need? And are we wrong to make them get up so early in the mornings? Sam Bilton finds out
I
t’s been a standing joke for decades that teenagers don’t do mornings. For years parents have assumed that their offspring’s desire to sleep in has been a mark of laziness or outright rebelliousness. However, it seems
that they have a good reason to be sleepy in the morning. THE SCIENCE OF SLEEP In his book Dreamland: Adventures in the Strange Science of Sleep, David K. Randall explains that for the majority of teenagers, the concept of getting an early night is ‘a biological impossibility’. Although teens may argue that they don’t need eight hours or more sleep each night, they are actually impeded from getting sufficient sleep due to their circadian rhythm, which is the timing of periods of sleepiness and wakefulness throughout the day. It is controlled through the release of a hormone called melatonin. In adults, more melatonin is released as daylight fades and less as morning breaks. Randall explains that as a result of puberty, teenagers’ circadian rhythm is moved backwards by three hours. This means that their bodies do not emit sufficient melatonin to induce sleep until at least 11pm, and, what’s more, they continue to pump it out until well past sunrise. ‘With all that melatonin in their bloodstream, teenagers who are forced to be awake before eight in the morning are often barely alert and want nothing more than to give in to their body’s demands and fall back to sleep,’ writes Randall. ‘Because of the shift in their circadian rhythm, asking a teenager to perform well in a classroom during the early morning is like asking him or her to fly across [the world] and adjust to a new time zone – and then do the same thing again every night for four years.’ HOW IS THE SITUATION MADE WORSE? According to NHS advice, teenagers need between eight and a half to nine and a quarter hours of sleep per night. In the
88 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
WHAT IMPACT DOES A LACK OF SLEEP HAVE ON TEENAGERS? THE MOST COMMON EFFECTS OF INSUFFICIENT SLEEP INCLUDE: • Sleepiness Particularly during periods of low stimulation, which for many teenagers means sitting in a classroom. • Tiredness The psychological effect of sleepiness, which results in a general apathy towards any task they view as tedious. • Emotional Changes Sleep-deprived teenagers can be irritable, impatient and more prone to depression. • Behavioural Issues Because of the above, teenagers have a short attention span and in some cases this has led to children being diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). • Illness A recent study in the Journal of Sleep Research found that teenagers who have insufficient sleep are more prone to illnesses such as colds, flu and gastroenteritis.
FAMILY STYLE
US, a study by the National Sleep Foundation found that only 15 per cent of students achieved this amount of sleep on a typical school night. Part of the problem is that children are in a constant state of stimulation. An Ofcom report last year found that around three in five 12–15-year-olds own a smartphone but 26 per cent now also own a tablet computer, a figure that is up from just seven per cent in 2012. With constant peer pressure to be available 24 hours a day, whether it be via texting or social media interaction, it’s no wonder finding time to sleep is problematic. In order to combat their drowsiness some teenagers are inclined to reach for caffeinated drinks, cigarettes and even alcohol. These are all stimulants that provide further interference in the body’s attempt to obtain sleep. So how do we break this cycle of sleep deprivation?
❝
Asking a teenager to perform well in a classroom during the early morning is like asking them to fly across the world and adjust to a new time zone
WHAT’S THE SOLUTION? One solution, which has been trialled in several states in North America, is to move the start of the school day for high school children. These trials have seen an improvement in pupil attendance, academic performance and emotional stability and behaviour. Crucially, many students involved in these studies reported that they were getting more sleep as a result and were not feeling as tired during the school day. This system of a delayed start time for teenagers has been introduced at the UCL Academy in London. The school, which was the first in the UK to be sponsored by a university, allows its sixth formers to begin their day at 10am. This move has been praised by experts on sleep patterns such as Russell Foster, professor of circadian neuroscience at Oxford University. He stresses that teenagers need to understand why sleep is important rather than using a delayed start to the school day as an excuse to go to bed later. After the introduction of the later start time, the principal of UCL Academy, Geraldine Davies, has said that attendance and punctuality at the school are excellent, stating that ‘youngsters are turning up alert and ready to learn and are focused and engaged in lessons.’ Could this be the way forward for sixth forms in Sussex? Let us know what you think. Email your thoughts to samhl@sandrpublishing.co.uk MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 8 9
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Give your children the head start in life they deserve
P
arents know that from the moment our children
a happy, secure start to their education.” ISI inspection report
are born the questions never stop! One of the
2012
most important decisions we face is choosing the education we can give them. The choices we make
Our purpose built pre prep building also caters for Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 classes. You only have to visit to
shape the rest of their lives. So, is it any wonder that, when
discover what a very special place it is. The outside wall of
it’s not the babies themselves causing sleepless nights, it’s the
each classroom is glass, overlooking the school’s outdoor play
choice of future school?
spaces and woodland.
At Pennthorpe, our dedicated staff foster a love of
Children have an endless capacity for imagination and it’s
learning, develop a sense of adventure and encourage an
our aim to give every child a chance to explore their curiosity.
understanding of community from an early age. Our cosy
Every day at Pennthorpe is a new adventure. Classrooms
Honey Pot and Beehive pre-school classes ensure your child
resonate with energy and yet the small class sizes allow
develops an appetite for ‘school’ from the start, offering a
a feeling of calm and a focus on the individual. Specialist
structured learning environment that’s designed especially
teachers enrich the curriculum, giving the opportunity for
for pre-school children. Learning is always fun and every bit
every pupil to develop their talents and become a genuine
as creative as the dynamic and innovative school that our
Pennthorpe all rounder.
children progress to. Flexible sessions and experienced staff
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if these don’t suit, please do call Fiona Long on 01403 822391, who
“The warm, caring environment ensures that children have 90 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
will be happy to arrange a personal tour with the Headmaster.
An excellent education from the very beginning Come and find out how we ensure our youngest pupils are happy, confident learners who excel in all areas.
pen mornings Tuesday 6th and Saturday 10th May
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APR IL 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE .C O M | 9 1
I
n a few weeks’ time the 2014 GCSE exams will begin. Hundreds of thousands of pupils will sit
in school halls, pens poised, ready to answer questions on which their future career – academic or otherwise – depends. While there is much bleating from us grown-ups about how easy GCSEs are now compared to how it was done ‘back in our day’, it doesn’t alter the fact that sitting exams can be very stressful. ChildLine provides support for children up to the age of 18,
UNDER
tackling difficult issues ranging
PRESSURE
from sexual abuse to exam stress. Thirty-one per cent of the calls they receive are from 16-18-yearolds. During 2012-13, ChildLine carried out 2,433 counselling
Sam Bilton speaks to Sue Minto of ChildLine about how we can help our children cope with exam stress
sessions where exam stress was mentioned as a related concern. Of these, 20 per cent were handled by the ChildLine base in London (although the children could have been calling from
concerned that if they perform
anywhere in the country).
badly in exams they will
‘Parents should never
disappoint their parents. Plus
Above: Parents should never understimate the pressure children are under towards exam time
Some children will become irritable or depressed. Others may appear more anxious about
underestimate the pressure
there is a natural tendency for
children are under towards exam
children to compare themselves
time,’ explains Sue Minto, head
to their peers. It’s easy to feel
a child to lose interest in food
of ChildLine. ‘We really start to
inadequate if you know someone
or to overeat. Poor sleep patterns
see calls to ChildLine build at
who is a high achiever. They need
may also indicate your son or
this time of the year.’
to understand that not everyone
daughter is stressed. Although
can be, or indeed needs to be,
it is not classed as an illness it
a straight-A student.
can manifest itself in physical
Sue points out that stress is not just caused by the thought
So how do you know if your
of exams. Children are aware
what appears to us to be trivial things. It’s not uncommon for
complaints such as headaches
of the pressure the government
child is stressed? Stress can
and stomach pains. It can also
puts on schools for their pupils
manifest itself in many ways.
lead some children to self-harm
to perform well. This in itself can cause children to worry about whether they are receiving the appropriate level of education from their teachers to ‘meet the grade’. Children are also
❝
I have my exams coming up soon and I’m really stressed and down. I feel like I’m going to fail and people will be disappointed in me
92 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
and, in extreme cases, even make some children feel suicidal. The following quote, which comes from the ChildLine annual report, is from a 16-year-old girl: ‘I don’t know why I am like this but one
FAMILY STYLE
SUE’S TIPS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH STRESS
01
Open the door for discussion. Don’t wait for your child to come to you with their problems. Many children feel that their parents are not approachable or believe they will be too busy to listen to their concerns. Make the discussion informal, perhaps while you are washing up or preparing dinner. Don’t arrange a ‘meeting’ as this can increase the pressure and unease on the child.
02
Look out for the warning signs listed in this article. If you think your child is stressing about exams then ask them how you can help. It’s easy to assume you know what is best for your child but sometimes your good intentions may be perceived as unnecessary interference and may inadvertently increase their stress.
03 minute I feel like I want to die
and people will be disappointed in me. I have been self-harming
of information on its website on dealing with exam stress can talk to other children with similar concerns.
I have my exams coming up down. I feel like I’m going to fail
get additional support from ChildLine. There is a wealth and revision techniques as well as chat rooms where they
and the next minute I don’t. soon and I’m really stressed and
If your child declines your offer of help then suggest they
04
Create a conducive place to study. Children often complain that studying at home is hard due to lack of space or interruptions by other family members. Try
because I’m so angry and it helps
to create a quiet space for them and encourage siblings
me release everything. I’m scared
not to disturb them while they are studying.
I’m going to do something stupid.’
FURTHER INFORMATION ON EXAM STRESS
05
Develop a revision plan with your child, ensuring it makes
06
Help your child look after themselves. Ensure they eat
www.childline.org.uk 0800 1111
(children’s helpline) www.youngminds.org.uk 0808 802 5544
(parent helpline) www.nhs.uk/livewell
provisions for regular breaks. Even a quick walk around the block can be enough to clear the mind and relieve stress.
a balanced, healthy diet rather than bingeing on food and drink that’s high in sugar, fat and caffeine. Encourage them to go to bed at a sensible time rather than burning the midnight oil. MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 9 3
BUSINESS STYLE
Looking
GOOD
Recognise how and where you can add value to someone’s business or make their life easier – and you’re on the path to success, says Gatwick Diamond Business CEO, Jeremy Taylor
❝
Most of us are fighting against time, budgets and resources and our working life is not easy. By helping to make someone else’s life easier you will be remembered
T
o my mind, succeeding
What do you do that others can’t
in business is all about
or won’t do? I’m sure many of us
making other people look
have seen an idea, an invention or
or feel good. I learnt this
a new process and been struck by
lesson a few years ago while working
its simplicity. And we’ve all thought,
with one of the London boroughs on a
‘I could do that’. However, very few
project to promote inward investment
people actually do that bit extra. When
and job retention. There was a perfectly
I meet people I will often try to find out
capable team working under good
what issues they have, and where they
leadership but I was still being asked
see a solution to a problem. So go out
to come in and work with that team on
of your way to become the source of
a project basis. When I asked my client
information, ideas, advice and contacts;
why they kept giving me the work (at
people rely on good sources.
a higher rate than they paid their staff)
What do you do that adds value? Many
she told me, ‘You make me look good.’
people talk about ‘adding value’ but it
In another role, I was working with
By adding value you can enrich other
running a series of workshops where
people’s lives and experiences. Again,
civil servants had to meet and discuss
I would ask you to think about your
issues with employers. I again asked
work and personal relationships here.
the question and he said, ‘Your
Try to identify people who are on the
workshops make my boss look good.’
way up. Work with them, help them,
Think about your own network of
and make sure you stay in their minds.
colleagues (or family and friends) and
This may sound somewhat mercenary,
who has recently made you look good.
but they are a part of your future.
In anything you do, ask yourself some
Again, make their life easier and you
key questions about your approach
will be remembered.
to your business:
94 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
is not always clear what that means.
a national government department,
Of course, all of this requires you to
What can you do that makes another
be sure that what you do – whether it’s
person’s life easier? Most of us are
a product or a service – can be charged
fighting against time, budgets and
out for more than it costs you, and so
resources and our working (and
I’ll come back to that topic next time!
personal) life is not easy. By helping
Jeremy Taylor is CEO of Gatwick
to make someone else’s life easier you
Diamond Business.
will be remembered.
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READERS STYLE
Get in touch
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COMMENT NEWS, VIEWS AND WORDS FROM SUSSEX
Dear Sussex Style
Dear Sussex Style
PROFILE STYLE
❝
I really liked the interview you
Food has become my treat when I’m touring. It’s got to the point now where we book certain gigs, just so we can go to
did with Norman Cook about
Home d Cooke
food. He is a bit of a star in our house and my son plays his
with not drinking, which must be really hard when you have that kind of lifestyle. My husband and it was difficult to find things to do that didn’t involve alcohol, and our lives really had to change for a while until we got used to it. But we both thought it was good
28 | WWW.SUSSEXS TYLE.COM
2 Ship Street, Brighton. www. hotelduvin.com;
Ingredients Serves 4
• 100g Roquefort (diced into 2cm
❝
I always like to try the recipes and we thought the Roquefort, Pear & Walnut salad from Hotel du Vin was amazing. Thanks for making us try new things!
Serves 4
• 625g chocolate • 125g butter • 10 eggs, separated • 12ml double cream
• 4 lemon sole (skin and head removed)
roughly chopped)
• 4 lemons (segmented) • 50g parsley (cut into thin strips) • 200g butter • 100g Lilliput capers
• 1 red Belgian endive, washed and prepped
• 1 white Belgian endive, washed and prepped
• 50g dandelion leaves • 50g frisée • 12 chervil leaves • 4 slices brioche (crusts cut off,
For the crème Chantilly:
• 100ml double cream • 13g sugar • ½ vanilla pod
Method For the salad, segment the
lemons
Method
(reserve the heart of the lemon to season your beurre noisette) and prepare your watercress. Flour the fish and pan-fry on both
cut into 2cm cubes and fried in butter until golden brown)
Gently melt the chocolate and
butter over a bain-marie until melted, add yolks and combine.
Lightly whip the cream to ribbon stage and beat the egg whites
sides until golden brown. Add
Method
the butter and, when foaming, remove the fish and add to the centre of the plate. Finish the sauce by squeezing in your lemon heart, add the parsley and capers and spoon over the fish. Garnish
Mix all ingredients together in a mixing bowl, assemble in a clay bowl and garnish with the chervil.
to soft peaks. Fold cream and egg whites into the chocolate
mixture and transfer to individual ovenproof dishes. Bake at 180°c
for 9 mins, then allow to stand for 20 minutes before chilling and
with your lemon segments and watercress and serve.
refrigerating. To make the crème Chantilly, whip the cream to soft
❝
I always like to | 29
Baked Valrhona Pot au Chocolat With Crème Chantilly
Ingredients (Makes 10) For the pot au chocolat:
Ingredients
pieces)
food section.
TYLE.COM APRIL 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXS
Lemon Sole Meunière With a Lemon and Watercress Salad & Beurre Noisette
• 1 pear (cored and thinly sliced) • 100g walnuts (toasted and
and I love the
| APRIL 2014
to spend too long in the kitchen? Hotel du Vin Brighton has some simple but gourmet-tasting recipes for you to try
01273 718588
a real spring feel,
N
interesting was how he manages
Feeling foodie but don’t want
Roquefort, Pear & Walnut Salad
and bright with
|
FINE DINING AT HOME Hotel du Vin,
issue is! Light
JONES PHOTOGRAPHY IVAN
Slim, lives in a big house orman Cook, aka Fatboy we couldn’t have picked right on the beach, and visit. His home is light a more beautiful day to the photo shoot quickly. and airy, and we set up being photographed and He doesn’t seem comfortable we’ve seems to like the spot he although bit, a shuffles about of the bung me in front of one chosen. ‘Most people just he says. groynes, or the smileys,’ snaps away, I chat to him While our photographer names gossiping about old Brighton throughout the shoot, and I can’t relieved when it ends, and faces. He is clearly with being odd that he still struggles help thinking it seems awkward. it just never stops feeling photographed. Maybe by the the house, on the decking Outside, at the back of sun, and cups of tea in the glorious sea, we settle down with about his I’m here to talk to him life gets more comfortable. out’ about he’s been allowed to ‘come love of food, something kept it team in the past have a bit more. His management roll’, but he’s ‘not really very rock and be to it judging quiet, food. closet now. Cook loves properly out of the foodie just what conjecture locally about There has been much as follows: ›› record, his interests are the for so, in he’s involved
TASTE STYLE
fresh air the April
certain restaurants
musical star, with a career Norman Cook is a global years. But he’s also cautiously spanning some 30-odd Sam Harrington-Lowe emerging as a real foodie. see what’s on the menu… caught up with him to
records a lot. What was really
stopped drinking a few years ago,
What a breath of
peak stage, add the sugar and vanilla pod and beat to stiff peaks. Spoon on top of the chocolate pots and dust with coco powder.
Inspired by French home-style cooking, Bistro du Vin’s Gallic-influenced food has an undeniably British flavour
22 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE.C OM | APRIL 2014
try the recipes in magazines and we thought the Roquefort, Pear & Walnut salad from Hotel du Vin was amazing. Thanks so much for making us try new things! Mrs F Shadows, Hailsham
that he talks about this and that being in that kind of lifestyle. Good for him! Jane P, Brighton
HOTEL STYLE
THE GEORGE IN RYE
M
critic. This month she experiences some Julie Burchill is Sussex Style’s new hotel a touch of modern-day luxury old-fashioned glamour with more than
y friend’s mum once considered going to live in the Medieval Sussex
village of Rye, but having viewed it, concluded ‘It’s very pretty, but where would you buy a bucket?’ The all-top-hat-and-no-trousers theme remarked on by this wise woman carried through to our room at The George. Quite lovely, with a huge roll-top, free-standing metal tub and Art Nouveau mirrors, it lacked a mini-bar, something of an obsession of mine. One of the reasons I’ve come to favour sleek 5-star chain hotels over the discreet charm of boutique brands is the habit the latter have of implying that
mini-bars are part of a modern plague of mercantile commerce,
taking the magic out of staying in a hotel. But at the end of the day
you’re still a paying guest – and it would be nice to have a brandy in your room without winding your way back down to the bar again.
Above: The Grill restaurant offers fresh and seasonal food Right: One of the 34 individually designed bedrooms
There wasn’t even a plastic bottle of water in the room. And yes, I KNOW it’s a real First World Problem but whenever I have to drink from a bathroom tap I
recall the old bit of business from
❝
and The bed was a gorgeous cloud of Frette the bathroom stocked with REN products, to while a Roberts Radio was pre-tuned Us Radio 4; a pleasing nod to People Like
Dad’s Army where Pike repeatedly wakes up his ‘Uncle Frank’ Wilson with cries of ‘I want a glass of water! NOT BATHROOM WATER, KITCHEN WATER!’ There’s just something WRONG about
gaining sustenance from a room housing a toilet. But the bed was a gorgeous cloud of Frette and the bathroom stocked with REN products, while a Roberts Radio – the Corby Trouser Press of the
upmarket boutique hotel – was pre-tuned to Radio 4; a pleasing nod to People Like Us. Downstairs in the Grill restaurant we drank Sancerre and ate a lunch and dinner composed of such fresh and lively ingredients that I halffeared that passing cod, squid
and chickens might put their heads around the door and enquire as to the whereabouts of their respective cousins. In the Tap bar, we nursed bourbons and listened to the pleasant clientele discussing dogs. ‘I’ve got a miniature pinscher!’ exclaimed one lady and I didn’t know whether to congratulate her or offer my
apologies. In the narrow cobbled streets we marvelled at the nerve of the shop calling itself GLASS ETC: ANTIQUES AND HIGHCLASS JUNK and admired the clock on the tower of St Mary
The George in Rye 98 High St, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7JT, 01797 222114 www.thegeorge inrye.com
the Virgin – which strikes not on the hour but on the quarter – and
atmosphere of Fifties Britain with a 21st-century level of luxury, the
George in Rye’s your guy. We were only there long enough to get
drunk, eat, argue like hellcats and kiss and make up. But I’m very much looking forward to going back for a more leisurely time
not in which to buy a bucket.
feels like to go back in time to an
| 37 APRIL 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE.COM
| APRIL 2014 36 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYLE.COM
Dear Sussex Style I enjoyed the April edition with one glaring exception. I thought Julie Birchill’s (sic) hotel review was shallow, self centred and largely irrelevant – she seems John T – by email
LIFE COACHING COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to the lucky winner of the free coaching session, Richenda Sabine from Brighton. We hope it helps you get off that hamster wheel!
this summer – Rye looks like a lovely place to get lost in, if
drank at the Cinque Ports Arms. If you’d like to know what it
obsessed with alcohol.
APRIL COMPETITION WINNERS
ROSEMARY MOON COOKERY BOOK Congratulations also to the two winners of the fabulous Rosemary Moon book, A Feast of West Sussex. Books are on their way to Maggie Blake from Chichester and Jacqueline Porter from Worthing
MUM ON THE RUN
FAMILY STYLE
❝
I once lost an entire afternoon peeling grapes for one particular Annabel Karmel creation
Faced with so many options of what to eat and how to eat it, it’s not surprising that our children are getting so particular about their food, says Laura Jandac
H
ave you seen the bit
in When Harry Met
Sally where Meg Ryan takes forever to order her food because she is so particular about how she would like it served? Well in my house at the moment I feel like that scene is on repeat. My four-year-old son has gone all Jamie Oliver on me. Historically I’ve never had a problem getting food down him. Always breathing a sigh of relief watching friends with difficult eaters, mine was never fussy and generally anything that was put in front of him was gratefully appreciated, but recently he seems to have an opinion on everything culinary. I asked him yesterday what he wanted for tea and was duly told that he wanted pasta, spaghetti not twirls, red sauce not green sauce (that’s pesto, not anything too sinister) and he would like cheese, but not on top of the pasta; he wanted it in a bowl on the side. eat bananas anywhere Oh, and some juice but at home. He wouldn’t – but with a white touch them straw not a red one. at nursery or with Wow. friends and not even for Granny. It turns Where did it all come out that my friend cut them in a particular from? A friend of mine way and her son struggles because her daughter was convinced that will only eat from they tasted different certain coloured and he didn’t like plates. She also has them if they were cut to choose her own in any other shape. knife and fork or she goes into complete But is it our fault? Do meltdown. I recently we pander to our darlings decided it was time so much to replace all of our that they simply do babyish plastic plates not compute that they with some more can’t have exactly grown-up ones and what they want? Am decided on a selection I going wrong by even in lots of bright asking my son colours. Big Mistake. what he wants? Maybe I had three screaming I should just plonk children on it in front of my hands as they all him with a like-it-or-lump-it wanted the green one! attitude and see if he plays Another friend couldn’t ball. When he was younger I would slave understand why her over recipes, son wouldn’t creating meals worthy of a Michelin star. I once lost an 62 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E.COM | APRIL 2014
ICONOGRAPHY: LUIS PRADO
he has found a way to cope while
entire afternoon peeling grapes for one particular Annabel Karmel creation. I have even been known to take a photo of a breakfast that I was so proud of and duly award myself ten out of ten for presentation and appearance. So maybe I have to take some responsibility for my son’s perfectionist streak. Even during the day we are inundated with food programmes, and Jamie Oliver and two beards (the hairy bikers) are very popular in our house. After one episode of Nigella a friend’s daughter asked if the chocolate she was having as an afternoon treat was organic! Have we created a herd of monsters or should we be proud that they are taking an interest in what they are eating and what it looks like?
We are lucky to have, just a 10-minute drive away, a pickyour-own farm. I can take my son and his friends to dig up and pick their own fruit and vegetables and help them to recognise a carrot from a tomato and start to learn about seasons and availability. I do have a bit of a way to go though because my son still gets frustrated that he can’t pick his own bananas in West Sussex! Monsters or not, I was the proudest mother in Sainsbury’s last week when my son shouted out loudly, for the whole aisle to hear, that he wanted smoked salmon and scrambled eggs for breakfast – but they had to be happy eggs! I’m clearly doing something right after all. APRIL 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL
E.COM | 63
Dear Sussex Style Your ‘Mum on the Run’ article this month really made me laugh. I too have fussy kids and I really can relate to some of this – having to cut crusts off bread for sandwiches, trying to make sure they eat a ‘rainbow’ of fruit and vegetable colours. And my son has this thing for olives stuffed with anchovies! It’s hard to get them to eat sometimes, so it’s always good to hear that other parents have similar troubles. Pietra R, Worthing MAY 2014 | WWW.SUSSEXSTYL E .C O M | 9 7
LAST WORD
A fine
PERFORMANCE
A
DANIEL RAVEN EMBRACES THE FESTIVAL SPIRIT
h, the Brighton Festival – where would be without
Les Inscrutables
it, eh? Year in, year out, it brings the cultural
This unique new project brings world-famous circus artists
riches of the world to our very doorstep, and no
Les Chiens D’Oubliette to the Pavilion Gardens for an
two years have ever been even remotely the same.
unforgettable night of juggling, fire-eating and papier-mâché
You just literally never know what sort of thing they’re going
head-things. Watch out for the star of the show, Opaquina
to come out with next but, as luck would have it I happen to
– a giant, fire-breathing rabbit, although it could be a goat.
be a very close personal friend of the guest director for next
There’s also a man wandering around with a bag of glass
year’s festival, and they were kind enough to offer me a sneak
eyes for some reason, who comes up and says stuff to you in
peek at the line-up. Here are just a few of the treats in store...
French – probably their version of a clown?
AIEEEE NIMMO!
Michael Rosen: KURT’S 4 KIDZ!
This unique project marries the tedium of classic opera with
World-famous children’s novelist and poet Michael Rosen
the baffling, chaotic horror of Lithuanian pantomime to tell
returns to the festival yet again with an award-winning
the story of Nimmo, a boy otter (or is it otter boy?) who runs
stage show/workshop that introduces 6-9-year-olds to the
away from home with dreams of becoming a pilot but is
life and works of legendary German composer Kurt Weill.
kidnapped and forced to work in a factory by an enormous,
This unique new project sees Michael taking on the roles of
sentient boot. World-famous master clown Atari Smirnoff electrifies as Nimmo; his gift for improvisation means that a single performance can last hours, days or even weeks.
❝
both Weill and his cheeky cleaning
It brings the cultural riches of the world to our very doorstep, and no two years have ever been even remotely the same
lady ‘Flo’, who interrogates her employer around notions of cultural identity while struggling to keep her bloomers from falling down.
Jugglers on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
Ball’s Well That Ends Well (sponsored by Southern Water)
This unique project from radical feminist juggling collective
This unique new project presents an irreverent take on the
B2P (Balls 2 Patriarchy) explores the relationship between
classic Shakespeare play: the venue is Brighton’s world-
expectoration and the male gaze. The performers juggle a series
famous sewer system and all the actors are encased in ‘zorbs’
of objects that represent the different stages of a woman’s life;
(transparent plastic orbs). Find out why this is known as
if any man in the audience is heard to cough, the performers
one of Shakespeare’s ‘problem plays’ as the eponymous balls
freeze, letting everything crash to the floor, and Patsy Cline’s
slowly fill with their occupants’ vomit and you are called
Who’s Sorry Now is played. The performance then resumes,
upon to pursue them through surging rivers of effluent.
but with the addition of an ungainly ‘male’ object (eg starter pistol, pornographic magazine). ‘Devastating’ – Lady Gaga 98 | W W W. SU SS E X ST Y L E.CO M | M AY 2014
Actually, now I come to look at this again, I guess it’s pretty much business as usual...?
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