The Guide 2 Woking December 2014

NOVEMBER 2014

& THE VILLAGES COMMUNITY | FAMILY | ENTERTAINMENT | FOOD & DRINK | LIFESTYLE | SPORT | BUSINESS

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The Advent Calendar:

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WIN A PRIZE A DAY!

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FOOD & DRINK SEASONAL SNACKS

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DECEMBER 2014

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TheGuide2Woking

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CONTENTS HI HO!

4 OUR CITIZENS 8 HISTORY: END OF YEAR REPORT 10 THE GUIDE 2 YOUR MONTH 16 THE GUIDE TO PANTO 18 SANTA’S GROTTO 24 RECIPES: SEASONAL SNACKS 26 WHERE TO EAT: ON THE GO 30 OH BAUBLES 34 LAST MINUTE GIFT GUIDE

Welcome one and all to the December issue of The Guide. As you may have gathered we’re gearing up to Christmas with typically festive aplomb. In this issue we ask you lovely local people: “What does Christmas mean to you?”

We also suggest some fun ways to fundraise for charity, we’ll take you on a journey of where to watch the best pantomimes, a guide to where to find Santa in the many grottos that he may be residing in, and we look at the details that make Christmas, well, Christmas. Food, decorations, last minute markets – it’s all here.

For the ‘bah humbugs’ out there with no yuletide interest whatsoever, we also have a wonderful array of sporting news, and we look ahead to the crunch tie and local derby between Woking FC and Aldershot Town FC. Now go forth, share your good will, bestow your tidings and see on the other side in 2015.

Mr D’Arcy

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FRONT PAGE NEWS

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Because Christmas is a time of giving and because we work with some wonderfully generous business’- this month we do not have one competition, nor do we have three, but instead marvel at the advent calendar of greatness with some amazing prizes to be won every single day in the lead up to Christmas. Visit www.theguide2surrey.com/ competitions everyday for a feast of good will.

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SAVE A PENGUIN

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For an alternative stocking filler this Christmas, extend your giving far and wide and help preserve our precious wildlife.

Adopt a penguin! The fine folk over at WWF HQ in Woking have taken delivery of inordinate amount of the stuffed one’s which they will exchange with you in return for your adoption of a real life penguin.

Visit wwf.org.uk/penguinadoption and help save the Adelie Penguins of the South Pole.

This product is published by TG Media Group (trading under The Good Time Guide Ltd.) Address: TG Media Group, Unit 6 Cobbett Park, 22 – 28 Moorfield Road, Slyfield Industrial Estate, Guildford, Surrey GU1 1RU Main Switchboard: 01483 456001 General Enquiries: info@tgmediagroup.co.uk Managing Director: Fiona Knowlton Creative Director: Alex D’Arcy-Orga Sales Manager: Sam Massink Photographer: Fiona Digby-Jones Graphic Designers: Emma Lewis & Beth Ormerod This product is printed by Clearsons.

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COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 2014

Our Citizens

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h Christmas… A magical time of year for rosy reunions, eating and drinking and general merry-making. A time of giving, receiving, remembering and of goodwill to all. Or, to the less festive inclined, Christmas can be a time of stress and outrageous expense; a schmaltzy, over-commercialised waste of good tinsel. ‘Bah Humbug’, no less.

We at TG Towers fall happily into the former camp, as, we suspect, do a lot of you. But to get a better understanding of the consensus around Christmas, we put the following question to a few of our fellow citizens:

What does Christmas mean to you?

Stewart, 28, Publican Christmas is good food, good drink and spending time with those you love.

There’s a lot of sappy stuff around it, with adverts and crap decorations and tacky Santas and the like. It taints it slightly, but it doesn’t really spoil Christmas.

Petrina, 52 and Jen, 28 Shop Workers Jen: Guildford is very pretty when the lights are up. It’s childhood excitement through adult eyes. You have lots of other priorities as an adult but there’s always that little pang. I have a little boy so it’s nice to be going through it with him.

Petrina: My boy’s fifteen, so we’ve kind of lost that magic a bit.

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Community

Kev, 41, | Big Issue Seller Christmas is fantastic, not just for children but adults as well. I like to reminisce back to when I was a kid, when the decorations went up and the presents were beneath the tree. The thing that I do miss about Christmas is they don’t do the nativity stuff as much, with Mary and Joseph and the wise geezers and all that.

COMMUNITY

Katie, 21 and Lois, 19 | Restaurant Workers Lois: It’s great to have the family come together, from all over different places.

Katie: I think sometimes it’s a little bit early, but I think the build-up is really nice, when all the Christmas lights are on the high street and you can buy roast chestnuts.

Jess, 19, Hair Salon | Receptionist

Alja, 31, Health Shop | Manager

Christmas is good food, that’s what it means to me. I’m not religious in the slightest, but I love all the shopping and eating, everything lit up and seeing family. It’s great.

It’s time to slow down and spend time with family and friends. It can’t come early enough!

I love the lights and everything that comes with it. It is a little bit over commercialised, with too much emphasis on material things, but it’s really what you make of it.

Joss, 25, | Shop Worker

Rich, 31, | Publican

I don’t really care about gifts; I like giving them to people though. I don’t see my family very much so it’s nice to spend it with them. I hate being in town at Christmas when it’s so busy and frantic. That doesn’t feel like a nice holiday to me.

It’s time to get all your family together – I’m quite lucky because I get on with my family! I don’t think it’s over-commercialised over other times of the year. I didn’t realise Halloween was going to be quite so big in Guildford.

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COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 2014

T’is the Season to Fundraise This Christmas time why not throw some of that festive spirit behind some great local causes? Have some fun, get in the yuletide mood and help raise funds for charity… sounds like a Christmas win for everyone doesn’t it?

FACE THE GRIM CHALLENGE FOR YOUNG EPILEPSY Saturday 6th December 10:00am to 3:00pm Rushmoor Arena and Aldershot Raceway, Aldershot Entry: £35 + sponsorship raised The cause may be noble but as the title suggests, this charity event is no (brisk) walk in the park.

The GRIM Challenge pits entrants against a brutal assault course that includes muddy swamps, cargo nets and other obstacles at

SANTA FUN RUN FOR WOKING & SAM BEARE HOSPICES Sunday 7th December | 10am Mercedes-Benz World, Brooklands You only need a Santa outfit and a bit of wind to help raise funds to support the wonderful work of Woking & Sam Beare Hospices this December. Join hundreds of other Santas, young and old, to jog, walk or run your choice of the 2.5km or 5km routes around Brooklands.

This event is guaranteed fun for families, friends and a great

the Army vehicle testing grounds in Aldershot. Slip, slide, crawl and climb over 8 miles to the finish line.

Places are filling up fast – the event attracted 6500 last year- so visit the website and sign up without delay.

www.grimchallenge.co.uk Young Epilepsy is the national charity working exclusively on behalf of children and young people with epilepsy

www.youngepilepsy.org.uk

corporate team exercise as well.

All adults receive a free Santa outfit and all children a free Santa hat when signing up. It costs £10 for adult to enter and £5 for under 16s, and all sponsorship raised by the Santas will go straight to hospice care.

You can register for the run online at

www.wsbhospices.co.uk/santa or call fundraising on 01483 881752.

Woking & Sam Beare Hospices shops also have details and entry forms.

COMMUNITY

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Community

A FESTIVE FUN RUN FOR PHYLLIS TUCKWELL HOSPICE Saturday 13th December Devil’s Punchbowl, Hindhead

around the Devil’s Punch Bowl, with stunning views of the beautiful Surrey countryside.

Sunday 14th December

The second will take place at 11am in Aldershot, on Sunday 14th December, where the Santas and Rudolphs will complete two laps of the impressive Queens Avenue Playing Fields.

Registration costs £12 for adults and £5 for under-14s, and everyone who completes the course will be given a medal and a selection of festive goodies!

Queens Avenue Playing Fields, Aldershot Another chance to don some Santa threads and get running (or walking), all in aid of Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice in Farnham.

The first of the two fun runs will take place in Hindhead, at 11am on Saturday 13th December, where participants will follow a 3.5km route

SOMETHING A BIT LESS PHYSICAL?

SOMETHING A BIT LESS PHYSICAL? MAGPIE LANE FOLK CONCERT FOR WOKING & SAM BEARE HOSPICES Sunday 7th December | from 10am St Dunstan’s Church, Shaftesbury Road, Woking Adults £15, Children (up to 16) and concessions £12.

with concertina and fiddle, cello and bouzouki; this will be no ordinary carol concert but an exclusive performance by this renowned folk band in aid of the hospices.

A slice of Christmas nostalgia served by fantastic folk band Magpie Lane. Accompanying their traditional folk songs and harmonies

or by contacting 01483 881752.

Tickets available from

www.wsbhospices.co.uk

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COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 2014

OUR HISTORY: THE END OF YEAR EXAM

by Will Knowlton Well it’s the end of another year and I thought I’d round off with something a bit different.

So, like the last lesson of term, we’ll just have a bit of fun this month.

Our language has always interested me, and as these articles – set lackadaisically in ‘the olden days’ - are generally all about me, I thought we’d investigate.

So getting through Christmas financially without ending up p*** poor is an issue nowadays. Strange phrase that; turns out the poor, to make ends meet, would sell pee to tan animal skins. As with all business there’s a supply chain - and that chain came in the form of the whole family evacuating into a bucket. At the end of the day it would then be taken and sold to the tannery. Therefore - you were p*** poor. If you wanted to join this illustrious career path but didn’t even have the bunce to buy a pot? Well then you wouldn’t have a pot to p*** in.

Our forebears had all the luck…

Baths were an almost state opening occasion. A big metal tub was pulled out of storage, dusted off and filled with hot water. These were the days when there was a pecking order to be adhered to; the youngest child was last. By this point the water in the tub was probably reminiscent of that stuff they pour out of drip trays at last orders, so you could feasibly lose someone in the morass. Hence the warning: “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water”.

Around this time most people tied the knot in June, not because of the lovely summer weather but because the average person took their yearly (YEARLY!) bath around May. So hopefully, they still smelled alright in June (I think it’s fair to say though by that time beetroot would be still sprouting from their ‘pits). So, the future wife would carry a bouquet of flowers to mask the fug (the husband, presumably, just openly stank).

That’s the origin of the bouquet.

Once married you would probably head to your lovely thatch roof cottage. Now the thing was, back then these were nothing more than thick straw piled high, with no ceiling underneath.

Houses were cold and the one warm place for pets was the roof. When the rain came the straw became slippery and animals would slip and fall so it really did rain cats and dogs.

Sadly I’ve been to a couple of funerals recently and it got me thinking about wakes. The olden daysers used to drink out of lead cups, and the cocktail of ale or whiskey with the lead could knock people out; sometimes for days. So you’d find Uncle Touchy lying in the road and be unsure if he’d cashed in his chips, or was merely conked out from lead poisoning. Uncle was laid out on the kitchen table while relatives would visit, take selfies with him and eat and drink waiting to see if he would wake up. This is the origin of the wake.

So there you go a few interesting things to think about. Have a great Christmas, a happy New Year and stop believing everything you read…

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TheGuide2Woking

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CELEBRATE YOUR CHRISTMAS MOMENTS

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ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 2014

THE GUIDE 2 Christmas Crafts / WWF Living Planet Centre 2nd December One for the families, come to the Living Planet Centre in December and make a penguin or polar bear themed Christmas decoration using recycled materials. An opportunity to entertain the over 4s while teaching them about the environment.

Cost: £3 | www.wwf.org.uk

Ripley Christmas Fair / Ripley High Street 7th December With fairground rides on the Green, over 90 stalls on the High Street, carol singing, balloon modelling and circus entertainment, and Father Christmas, come along to Ripley to see the turning on of the Christmas Lights & get yourself into the ‘Festive Spirit’. discoverripley.co.uk

Festive Walk around the Crystal Grotto / Painshill 3rd & 4th December The kids will come here to visit Santa, but you should come to experience one of Surrey’s finest sites. Enjoy a magical moonlit walk in the 18th century landscape garden then follow the special festive route to the amazing sparkling crystal Grotto.

Winter Wine Evening / The Inn @ West End

Cost: Adults £8, concessions £7 (members free)

8th December

www. painshill.co.uk

Kirsty Wilson hosts an evening of wine and other treats. The Inn @ West End is one of the finest foodie pubs in Surrey. A marriage made in heaven, we say channel your inner sommelier… www.the-inn.co.uk

The History of Puppetry / The Lightbox 11th December In this talk, puppetry expert Penny Francis will explore the enduring appeal of puppetry, including how children like to act as puppeteers and how most of us as adults are enthralled by seeing puppets ‘brought to life’…

Cost: £6 | www.thelightbox.org.uk

Christmas Market / Sands at Bleak House 4th December A charitable Christmas market full of local independent stall-holders, all at this wonderful restaurant. Expect a Christmas wrapping service, ale tasting, BBQ, live music, card making, jewellery, cupcakes, and loads of gifts… www.salonseven.co.uk

Woking Choral Society “Beethoven & Brahms” / HG Wells Centre 6th December Woking Choral Society Orchestra perform Beethoven’s ‘A Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt’ & ‘Symphony No 5 in C Minor’ and Brahms ‘Ein Deutsches Requiem’. A festive feast of choral music.

Tickets: £17, students £8 www.wokingchoral.org.uk

Mercenary Rock Gods / Sullivan’s Wine Bar 11th December A classic rock and metal duo playing acoustically?

Colour us interested. A great alternative to listening to Slade and Wizzard over and over again, MRG will be at Sullivan’s in Weybridge on 11th December. Keep checking Sullivan’s’ website and stay updated with their plethora of live music. www.sullivanswinebar.co.uk

The Weekend / Rhoda McGaw Theatre 11th - 13th December

A Horsell Amateur Dramatics Society presentation, ‘The Weekend’ is a comedy by Python legend Michael Palin. A play with depth and poignancy, come and support this local production company put on a fine show at the Rhoda McGaw. A wonderful panto alternative we think…

Tickets: £11 (plus transaction fee) www.atgtickets.com

ENTERTAINMENT

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Entertainment

YOUR MONTH

Create Your Own Wreath / Waterman House

Bad Jumper Christmas Party / Hand and Spear

13th December

19th December

A workshop hosted by Blooming Useful, why not get into the festive spirit and learn how to create your own beautiful Christmas Wreath? Proceeds go to the ever-worthy Woking and Sam Beare hospices.

Bad jumpers have weirdly become cool in recent years, but forget the irony – this is a celebration of the worstest. Don your ugliest knitted garm, head down to Weybridge’s finest The Hand and Spear, and get festive in a sea of equally disgusting jumpers…

Cost: £35 | www.wsbhospices.co.uk

www.handandspear.co.uk

Concorde Champagne Day / Brooklands Museum 13th December A special celebration of Concorde, the day includes a pre-flight Champagne Reception, Concorde Experience flight (with champagne), a visit to the flight deck to chat with Captain Bannister, a visit to the Concorde Simulator and a three course lunch (including wines, soft drinks, tea and coffee) in the Clubhouse.

Christmas Carols / Cellar Magneval 19th & 20th December Two different evenings of carolling at Cellar Magneval; the first being for the family on the 19th with a more grown-up affair on the 20th.

Mulled wine and hot chocolate will warm you up for a lovely hour singing festive songs around the piano. www.cellarmagneval.com

Cost: £109 | www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Big Indoor Flea Market & Collectors Fair / Woking Leisure Centre

Rose Theatre Kingston presents: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Story Trail / RHS Garden Wisley

14th December

20th December

Antique, vintage and modern collectables to second hand and new goods of all sorts. A perfect source of last minute gifts.

Two of Surrey’s finest cultural hotspots combine when Rose Theatre’s magical production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe comes to RHS Garden Wisley. Begin your journey by seeking out the glow of the lamp post. Follow the magical trail through the striking colours of winter; seeking out the loveable Mr Tumnus and a very busy beaver.

A magical time awaits…

www.antiquefairs.co.uk

Silent Night at Woking Football Club / 17th December As part of Silent Night, a nationwide football and community initiative, Woking Football Club will be hosting a Christmas Carol celebration in partnership with the Woking churches and community organisations. The event will recall the Christmas Truce 1914 when opposing soldiers laid down their arms, remembered the hope of the Christmas story, sang carols and played football. www.wokingfc.co.uk

Cost: £12.20 adults, £5.25 children (cost of entry; includes Giftaid) www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

Woking vs Aldershot / Kingfield Stadium 28th December A clash of the conference titans, a local rivalry of epic proportions. Combine the remaining festive cheer with some friendly goading. See our sports pages for more on this match-up… www.wokingfc.co.uk

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ENTERTAINMENT

Where Should You Go on December 31st 2014…?

Latino, Woking NYE doesn’t have to be about being surrounded with alcopops and cheesy music – a night of Italian cuisine with a dedicated menu is a wonderful way to see in 2015…

Latino Italian restaurant in Woking provide an incredible selection of cuisine, and their New Year’s Eve Menu is just as exceptional.

Spaghetti with fresh clams in a white wine and tomato sauce? A fine last meal of 2014…

The wine list is every bit as impressive and get a glass of Bellini on arrival to…

Three Course Meal £35 www.latinowoking.com

Brooklands Hotel, Weybridge The ‘VIP’ option, for all of you looking to enter 2015 in luxury.

Brooklands Hotel is a stunning venue, and you’ll find yourselves at one hell of a party on December 31st…

Walk the red carpet to your glass of Prosecco, tantalise your taste buds with arrival canapés followed by an exquisite five-course meal, then party into the New Year with a DJ. Should you wish to eschew a taxi then you can stay over too.

Decisions decisions, eh?

Tickets: £119 www.brooklandshotelsurrey.com

The Hand and Spear, Weybridge

Cellar Magneval, Woking

Get the speech ready folks, for those good people at the evermarvellous Hand in Spear in Weybridge have A Night at the Oscars shindig for NYE…

This venue is so wonderfully full of things to do that we’re finding it hard not to mention them all the time.

Head down the red carpet, have your photos taken by paparazzi and be greeted by a champagne and canapé reception, then enjoy a stunning five course New Year’s Eve banquet.

Entertainment comes from awardwinning magician Theo Theodoris, live music from Daniel James performing Rat pack classics until the big countdown, followed by a DJ spinning tunes until the small hours.

Tickets £75 www.handandspear.co.uk

With capacity for only 50 you’d better get your skates on, because at Cellar Magneval your ticket will entitle you to 3 glasses of specially selected drinks, including wines, beers, champagne and soft drinks.

Oh, and cheese…

Dress up in your cocktail attire and propose a toast for your new favourite venue of 2015.

Tickets: £50 www.cellarmagneval.com

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DECEMBER 2014

A PURE GENIE-US OF A PANTOMIME! CBEEBIES SUPERSTAR

JUSTIN FLETCHER BEN ADAMS JASON SUTTON

AS WISHEE WASHEE

STEVEN ARNOLD AS PC PONG

AS ALADDIN

SHAHEEN JAFARGHOLI

AS WIDOW TWANKEY

AS GENIE OF THE LAMP

Santa’s Grotto

AND INTRODUCING

STEVEN SERLIN

5-24 December

AS ABANAZAR

FAMILY TICKETS AVAILABLE 5 DEC 2014 – 10 JAN 2015 0844 871 7645* ATGTICKETS.COM/WOKING * www.facebook.com/wokingpanto

@WokingTheatre #wokingpanto

WOKING COLLEGE PRESENTS

*FEES APPLY

PERFORMANCES: WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2014 2.30PM & 7.30PM THURSDAY 11TH DECEMBER 2014 7.30PM FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER 2014 7.30PM TICKETS: £10 ADULTS £7 CONCESSIONS £5 STUDENTS TICKET HOTLINE 01483 761036 ALSO AVAILABLE AT WOKING COLLEGE RECEPTION

G WOKIN E COLLEG G MIN PERFOR ARTS “OUTSTAN DING” OFSTED

A LEVELS Drama | Theatre Studies | Dance Music | Music Technology BTEC Level 2 Acting BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts To find out more contact Claire Nevers: CDO@woking.ac.uk

The Beldam Theatre, Woking College, Rydens Way, Woking, GU22 9DL Tel: 01483 761036 @ wokingcollege www.woking.ac.uk J5228 WOKING COLLEGE FAME AD GFORD&WOK 152x125mm.indd 1

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ENTERTAINMENT

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Entertainment

TALKING TO...

Justin Fletcher From Justin’s House to Gigglebiz to Something Special, he’s the most recognisable face in children’s television, appearing as Mr Tumbles and a host of other Cbeebies characters that are adored by kids up and down the UK. This Christmas, the BAFTA-winning Justin Fletcher MBE appears as the lovable Wishee Washee in the spectacular pantomime Aladdin at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking…

What do you most enjoy about pantomimes?

I really get excited about panto and Christmas time in general. Panto is the one show where you get two year olds up to ninety year olds all coming along. This might be my 15th panto so far, but I enjoy anything to do with live theatre.

I spend a lot of my year in studios which is great but you don’t have that live connection to the audience. So it’s fun to return to Woking and meet the audience here. But what’s key for me is that I can encourage children to come to the theatre for the first time, to have their first theatrical experience and that’s really important.

Is your TV work on hold until the panto season’s over?

Yes it is. Back in the day, as an actor you’d tend to juggle several jobs at once, but with a big production like this you really need to concentrate! But also, for much of the year I’m filming all around the country so this is the one time of year when I can catch up with all my family who live around here.

How did you get into children’s television?

I studied for three years at the Guildford School of Acting. I just

loved it, it was great fun. Even then I would write sketches and create characters. In my third year I met (TV presenter) Phillip Schofield who suggested I put together a showreel. My sister worked in television and she helped me produce a reel I called ‘Justintime TV’. I sent that out and two weeks later I got my first job – the rest is history! Ironically, two of the characters from that original showreel are in Gigglebiz now.

Who were your children’s TV heroes when you were a kid?

Brian Cant was the real governor – with Trumpton and Playschool, that lovely safe kind of pre-school television. I was lucky enough to go to the 50th anniversary of Playschool a few weeks ago. Brian was there as well as Floella Benjamin and Johnny Ball. It was fantastic.

What has been your proudest achievement in your career so far?

The program that has been dearest to my heart has been Something Special which started out on a tiny budget but we used Makaton, a simple sign language to help children who can’t communicate vocally. With that the Mr Tumble character just took off overnight. We’re on our 11th or

12th series now and we can’t make the shows fasts enough!

Are we ever going to see a movie of one of your characters?

There are no plans to do one yet, but I would love to do a Mr Tumble film. But it’s just fitting it in; obviously Justin’s House and Gigglebiz are still going strong.

Finally, to paraphrase John Lennon - among children, are you bigger than Santa Claus?

Ha ha, No! (chuckles that Mr Tumbles chuckle) Certainly not!

Justin Fletcher appears in Aladdin at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking from 6th December 2014 to 10th January 2015.

To book tickets visit the website at

www.atgtickets.com/shows/ aladdin/new-victoria-theatre or call

0844 871 7645.

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ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 2014

Pantomimes, Plays Other Yuletide It’s the festive period folks, which means only one thing – it’s panto time! Oh yes it is! (Sorry…). Here we give you the rundown of all of the best pantomimes, plays and general theatrical merriment that you can expect in the local area. Altogether now: “he’s behind you…”

Aladdin New Victoria Theatre, Woking / Saturday 6th December to Saturday 10th January Is it big budget you want? Then Woking’s New Victoria Theatre have a humdinger for you: the ever-amazing Aladdin, starring Mr Tumble himself, Justin Fletcher!

Cbeebies superstar Justin will be returning to the New Victoria Theatre stage as Wishee Washee, with the titular character played by ex-A1 member Ben Adams (younger readers – he was the Harry Styles of the late 90s).

Rub the magic lamp, enter the cave of wonders and be transported to this fun fairytale world. Aladdin is guaranteed to delight the whole family with all the stunning sets, glittering costumes, wonderful songs and dazzling dancing – this is the extravaganza you blockbuster lovers are after…

Tickets: £12- £39.50 + Booking Fees / www.atgtickets.com / 0844 871 7645

Slingshot Theatre’s ‘Nativity in Creakebottom’ Rhoda McGaw Theatre, 5th December Take a panto, add the nativity tale and take away the massive bloomers and what have you got? Why you have this hilarious tale courtesy of local troupe Slingshot Theatre of course, taking place at the New Vic’s little sister the Rhoda McGaw theatre…

‘Nativity in Creakebottom’ is a madcap show which feels like a mash-up of Shakespeare’s Rude Mechanicals and a medieval mystery play. Gus Blathermouth leads the ‘All-Male Amateur Dramatics Society of Creakebottom’, who are minded to stage a Nativity play in pursuit of their theatrical dreams and to promote the real meaning of Christmas.

While God may be on their side talent is not, and neither is mysterious new recruit Michael Outwit, who in truth is local bombshell Susie Pimpleknickers incognito. When a big-wig producer offers fame and fortune at the price of their message, the men are left to decide what matters most…

Tickets: £12.50, concessions £8 / www.slingshot-theatre.com / 01483 488282

ENTERTAINMENT

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Entertainment

and Performances Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Yvonne Arnaud Theatre / Friday 5th December to Sunday 11th January This enchanting story tells a tale of a beautiful young princess, poisoned by a magical apple from the Wicked Queen, but who is saved by a valiant Prince who tries to wake her with a kiss of true love. But this being a panto, there’ll be boo’s, hisses and general good-hearted japery too…

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe The Rose Theatre, Kingston / Sunday 30th November to Sunday 4th January The gorgeous Rose Theatre over in KingstonUpon-Thames don’t do panto in the traditional sense of the word – instead each year they offer a magical production that’s just as familyfriendly, but a little less… well, without the oversized spotty bloomers…

Anyway you will surely know of CS Lewis’s classic wartime tale of the Pevensie children, Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter, who are evacuated to the English countryside. There they discover a magical realm at the back of wardrobe containing (amongst other things) white witches, fauns, and a talking lion…

The Rose Theatre will bring this wonderful and timeless tale alive in what’s sure to be a gorgeous production, and will inflame the kids’ imagination as well as reintroducing you to what was surely one of your favourite children’s books… A wonderful panto alternative we say.

Comedy Store Player and ‘Whose Line is it Anyway?’ legend Josie Lawrence will star as the fabulously witty Wicked Queen, who will be evil in that most amusingly ‘pantomime’ of ways.

Along with Josie will be June Whitfield as ‘The Spirit of the Mirror’ as well as an array of local talent.

As those ever-wonderful people at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre say themselves: Don’t be dopey; you’ll be grumpy if you miss out… Book your tickets today!

Tickets: Various prices / www.yvonne-arnaud. co.uk / 01483 44 00 00

Dick - the Adult Panto!

The Star Inn, Guildford / 3rd to 20th December And finally, you may be under the impression that pantomimes are just for kids – far from it, as the Guildford Fringe will confirm. We shall share with you some of their synopsis for ‘Dick – the Adult Panto!’ without comment: “Dick is on his way to London to seek fame, fortune and love (or at least lust) when he meets ‘Peter The Pussy(cat)’ and they form a bond as iconic as Ant and Dec.

Tickets: £11- £28 + fees / www. rosetheatrekingston.org / 020 8174 0090

In this tale of love and power, who will rise to the occasion and who will go down limply like an aroused man with brewer’s droop? Can they make the word ‘election’ sound rude? Against all odds, will Dick stand firm?”

Alternatively…

Ahem. If this family-friendly stuff isn’t your bag then having a bite and a beverage and tucking into some serious innuendo could be just the alternative you’re looking for…

Guildford also offers a sweet production of ‘Arabian Nights’ at The Electric Theatre (18th – 21st December), while ‘I’ve Seen Santa’ at Farnham Maltings (20th – 21st December) is another panto alternative. Want to go traditional? ‘The Beauty and the Beast’ is at Camberley Theatre (8th December – 4th January…)

Tickets: £14.50 / guildfordfringe.com / 0844 8700 887

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ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 2014

CHRISTMAS FUN AT POLESDEN LACEY Throughout December

What better way to get into the seasonal spirit than a traditional Edwardian Christmas? Polesden Lacey is getting all dressed up in time for Christmas…

Expect Christmas carols, indulge in some festive treats at the restaurant or take a sleigh ride – and pop in and see Santa. Also this year the house has been made to a giant living Advent calendar complete with scenes for each of the 24 days. 01372 452048

polesdenlacey@nationaltrust.org.uk

THE CRYSTAL GROTTO AT PAINSHILL PARK, COBHAM 6th to 24th December

One of our favourite grottos. Set in the park’s 18th Century landscaped garden and at the end of a meandering festive route, you will find Grotto Island. On the island Santa’s Elves have pitched their Christmas Wishing tent. Inside there are activity packs and refreshments for everyone and then the elves will guide you through the Crystal Grotto to meet Santa! Booking is essential…

www.painshill.co.uk

SANTA’S GROTTO AT CHESSINGTON GARDEN CENTRE Throughout December

Chessington Garden Centre has a spectacular Christmas experience this year. So much more than a visit to Santa, this will be a fantastic adventure through worlds of fun.

Help Rocket the Reindeer find his lost antler before heading out into the wonderland grotto where you’ll find a quiet country house with a magic wardrobe. Travel through an Icy Winter Wonderland and find a polar bear tea party, ice skating penguins and swinging polar bear band. The elves have set up their magical toy workshop for you to visit before being taken to the Ice Palace to meet Santa.

Phew…

www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Entertainment

ENTERTAINMENT

ALICE IN WINTER WOODLAND AT ALICE HOLT FOREST 13th to 24th December

Everyone in the family will surely love this. Magical illuminated trails that will take you into the heart of the forest, wherein will be a Yurt, filled with fun role-playing, storytelling as well as arts and crafts.

Then there will be a chance to meet Father Christmas…

The whole event is aimed at kids from 2 to 10 year’s old (and maybe the Grown-ups as well!). Oh and by the way, please make sure that when you leave after seeing Santa that you take some time to feed the Reindeer some magic carrots, as we wouldn’t want any delays on the big night!

www.winterwoodland.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2014

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TheGuide2Woking

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Advent Calendar of Greatness . . .

WIN AN AMAZING PRIZE Every Day Until Christmas Eve! Yes folks, you heard us right – every day from the 1st until 24th December you can win a totally awesome prize on our online advent calendar, courtesy of this wonderful magazine!

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There will be a different competition every day, so keep checking back to see what you could win!

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DECEMBER 2014

FOOD & DRINK

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Food-and-Drink

Thirsty Business: Seasonal Supping

What is Christmas without a little something to sup on whilst we wrap up our gifts and pen our seasonal wishes? Mulled Wine is a given in the majority of public houses around town and of course some of you may have a penchant for the Advocaat based Snowball. For something a little different, we visited MKB in Guildford to get a last minute stocking filler from their top notch team of mixologists.

Recipe

Method

40 ml Mandarine Napolean Brandy

Pour contents of recipe into a Tulip Shaker filled with ice. Shake well.

(orange liqueur alternatives will work too!)

10 ml Goldschlager 15 ml Dom Benedictine 15ml vanilla Sugar Syrup 15 ml Lemon juice 50 ml Orange juice

Strain contents into a tall glass stacked with cubed ice Garnish with Holly leaves, Macarena Cherries and finally dust with icing sugar.

Voila, this cracker of a cocktail is ready for your belly. With flavours of orange, spice and all things nice – this is the taste of Christmas. Enjoy. Drink responsibly.

The Stocking Filler Designed by Joseph Robinson Available at MKB, 3 Alexandra Terrace, High Street, Guildford T: 01483 792306 | www.mkbguildford.com

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FOOD & DRINK

DECEMBER 2014

Recipes: What to Let’s be frank; Christmas is the time to eat. If you cannot indulge in some extravagant, over-the-top eating now, then when can you? Obviously the turkey of greatness is the main focus of your culinary planning - but we thought we would give you some ideas for some high impact festive snacks…

Giant Cheese Straws with a Twist Ingredients • 375g ready-rolled puff pastry • 4 slices Parma ham, cut into strips • 100g gorgonzola, crumbled.

You can substitute any cheese you like.

• 1 free-range egg, beaten

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6.

2. Roll out the puff pastry into a thin sheet on a floured surface.

3. Lay the strips of Parma ham onto one half of the pastry, then sprinkle over the gorgonzola.

4. Fold the pastry over the ham and gorgonzola, then roll out again to a thin sheet.

5. Trim the edges of the filled pastry, brush over with the beaten egg.

6. Cut the filled pastry into 1cm strips.

7. Twist the strips and transfer each to a baking tray. Press the ends of the pastry twists down to secure them to the tray and prevent them from unravelling.

8. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden-brown. Set aside to cool slightly, then serve and enjoy.

Oven Baked Camembert and Garlic Bread Ingredients • 1 whole Camembert, in its box • 1 garlic clove, sliced • 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme • 1 tsp olive oil • 1 small ciabatta loaf, cut in half • 30g of butter at room temperature • 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6.

2. Remove any plastic packaging from the cheese and put back in its box, leaving the lid off.

3. Make a couple of holes in the top of the cheese and insert pieces of garlic and sprigs of thyme into them.

4. Drizzle the cheese with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for ten minutes, or until the centre of the cheese is melted.

5. Mix the crushed garlic and butter together in a small bowl. Spread the mixture over the inside of both pieces of bread.

6. Place cut-side down in a hot griddle pan until toasted.

7. Serve the garlic bread with the warm cheese for dipping.

FOOD & DRINK

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Food-and-Drink

Nibble at Christmas Potted Pork Ingredients • 1kg of pork belly with the bones removed and the skin off.

• 1tbsp of salt • 3 cloves of garlic • 3 springs of thyme • 3 bay leaves • 250ml water

Method 1. Heat your oven to 160C/325F/Gas Mark 3.

2. Place your piece of pork into a roasting tin and then cover with the salt. Use your hands to rub the salt into the meat.

3. Then add the Garlic, Bay leaves, thyme and water. Cover with foil.

4. Place in the oven for 3 hours until the pork is tender and falling apart.

5. Lift the meat onto a board and tear it into shreds. Then pack the meat into a china bowl.

Make sure it’s packed in very tightly.

6. Pour the liquid from the roasting tin through a sieve into the bowl, covering the mixture. Leave to cool and then place into the fridge until the fat sets.

7. Serve with toast or bread of your choice.

That’s it! Three simple and effective ways to make yourself look like a gastronomical genius… Merry Christmas!

For more recipes and for the full Christmas Feast as well as all the trimmings, visit www.theguide2surrey.com/recipes

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FOOD & DRINK

DECEMBER 2014

WHERE TO Woking has to be one of the best destinations for Christmas shopping for miles, but facing the crowds this December requires some serious fuel to keep you going. So whether you’re after a quick snack or a quiet meal away from the madness, here are our suggestions for some great eats to be found in Woking this Christmas…

The Breadstall Street Bakery Market Walk, Woking www.breadstall.com The Christmas Lights may be tinkling above Woking but perhaps an even more cheerful sight might be the golden glow from this high end bakers, right on Market Walk. James and Luca serve up fresh baked pizzas with authentic Italian toppings and seriously good sandwiches – how does pulled pork shoulder in a brioche bun and fennel slaw sound? Fuel up with one of their award winning sausage rolls and, while you’re at it, pick up some of their artisan sourdough loaves, fresh from their bakery in Battersea.

Café Class 14 The Broadway, Woking www.cafe-class.co.uk Tel: 01483 723080 It’s barely been open a year but this family run café has shot to the top of Tripadvisor and won the hearts of Woking diners. It’s not hard to see why.

Part café, part delicatessen, part wine bar; the antipasti here is superb as are the fantastically authentic Italian house specials. Throw in great wine, great coffee and warm and friendly staff and you’ve got a perfect reason to duck out of the crowds over the Christmas season.

Fuel The Peacocks Centre, Woking When you’re right in the trenches at Christmas, pressed up against hordes of other shoppers, shoulders straining from bags of presents and no end in sight, you’d be forgiven for flagging a little. So if it’s a healthy boost you need, stagger that little bit further to Fuel Juice Bar (formerly Zest).

Here you can load up on super healthy, handmade juices that contain a revitalising mix of fruits and vegetables to help you get back into the fray.

Fresch Crown Square, Woking Tel: 01483 767171 Fresch has stood at the corner of Crown Square for nearly a decade, and is overwhelmingly popular among local workers drawn to it by their great range of fresh sandwiches (try the Popeye special), wraps, baguettes and pastries and fantastic coffee. Maxine and her team also offer a warm welcome to everyone – always needed, particularly in these colder months. Office bound? Don’t worry – they deliver. This bright, cheerful café is ideal for a fast lunch on the go, or a hearty breakfast to kick off the day’s shopping.

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Food-and-Drink

EAT: On the Go Bép Viet Market Walk, Woking 07747 641 688 www.bepviet.co.uk Bringing a real taste of the Far East to the spangly new Market Walk, Bép Viet have got their authentic Vietnamese street food down perfectly, offering vibrant, fresh flavours and great value portions to eat tableside or back in the office.

Here you can try fragrant Cóm; jasmine rice and Asian herb salad with lemongrass beef, Hanoi grilled chicken or deep fried tofu among others. Or – our favourite- silky Bánh Cuon; steam rice rolls filled with pork or seafood.. Hitting the town on Sunday? Swing by for some of their delicious Phó (noodle soup).

Café Lisboa 9 Goldsworth Road, Woking A humble little café on Goldsworth Road, Lisboa still retains owner Maria’s Portuguese roots in her lovingly prepared home cooking. A favourite for her hearty English breakfasts and crowd pleasing English classics given a Portuguese twist, Maria also bakes some outstanding cakes, ideal for enjoying with real Portuguese coffee.

Squisitos 109A High St, Horsell, Woking Tel: 01483 728005 www.squisitosuk.com A great idea that you rarely see: a takeaway serving fresh, authentic Italian food. Oh, and rotisserie chicken!

A cousin to Woking’s popular L’Aroma restaurant, this is a perfect stop-off after some busy shopping to pick up some fresh, handmade pizzas and pastas, salads, sides and sweets for dinner. Keep a look out for some great value meal deals and rotisserie turkeys available over the season. They also deliver to within a five mile radius.

FOOD & DRINK

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FOOD & DRINK

DECEMBER 2014

FARMERS’ MARKETS

& OTHER FOODIE EVENTS

GUILDFORD FARMERS’ MARKET Tuesday 2nd December | 11:30am – 3:30pm | High Street

CRANLEIGH FARMERS’ MARKET Wednesday 3rd & Saturday 20th December 10am to 2pm | the Village Hall

RIPLEY FARMERS’ MARKET Saturday 13th December | 9am-1pm | the Village Green

WOKING FARMERS’ MARKET Thursday 18th December | 9am to 2.30pm | Town Square

CAMBERLEY CHRISTMAS FARMERS’ MARKET Friday 19th & Saturday 20th December | Park Street, Camberley

WALTON-ON-THAMES FARMERS’ MARKET Saturday 20th December | 9.30am – 2pm | The Heart

MILFORD FARMERS’ MARKET (Secrett’s) Sunday 21st December | 10am to 1.30pm Secretts Farm Shop car park

COBHAM FARMERS’ MARKET Saturday 27th | Hollyhedge Parade

FARNHAM FARMERS’ MARKET Sunday 28th | 10am to 1.30pm | Central Car Park

Reincarnate Reinventing lifeless, old furniture with personality and style

Reincarnate looks to reinvent and breathe life into pieces of furniture that have potential to be a stylish, beautiful and unique part of your home.

www.reincarnateltd.co.uk www.facebook.com/reincarnateltd reincarnate@gmail.com

01483 224785

07762 558191

FESTIVE LUNCHES AT WISLEY RHS Wisley / 8th – 24th December A warming, filling lunch from Wisley’s festive menu followed by a languid stroll through the gardens in the crisp winter weather? Christmas is gooood at Wisley. www.rhs.org.uk

THE GUILDFORD INSTITUTE CHRISTMAS LUNCH Guildford Institute, Ward Street Wednesday 10th December and Friday 12th December The institute’s hidden gem of a vegetarian restaurant, the Beano, is pulling out the festive works and with a fantastic veggie feast while the institute offers a fun and challenging quiz. £14.00, open to all. www.guildford-institute.org.uk

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Richard Onslow Pub, Cranleigh Saturday 20th December Meet Mr Christmas himself and receive some early presents while enjoying one the Richard Onslow’s hearty breakfasts.

TheGuide2Woking

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An Aladdin's cave of Christmas delights..

Open 7 days a week See website for all details and updates

New Haw Rd Addlestone Nr Weybridge KT15 2BU Farm Shop 01932 852630 Info 01932 853886

Visit Santa's Secret Forest

www.crockfordbridgefarm.co.uk

Artisan Coffee, Homemade Cakes, Sandwiches, Salads & Light Lunches.

Children Welcome

Yarns Embroidery Silks Haberdashery Project Assistance Made to order – Scarves, Hats etc

Bookings taken for High Tea and Private Parties

If we don’t have it we can get it!

Opening Hours Mon - Sat : 8.30am to 6pm Sunday 10am to 5pm

www.facebook.com/ GatherGoodCraft andYarns

PI NNOCK'S COF F E E HOUSE. HI G H S T RE E T , RI P LE Y, S U RRE Y , GU 23 6A F www.pinnockscoffeehouse.com https://twitter.com/pinnockscoffee https://www.facebook.com/PinnocksCoffeeHouse

Gather Good Craft and Yarns Kiosk 12, Market Walk, Woking GU21 6GB

LIFESTYLE

DECEMBER 2014

The Best Baubles 1

2

4

One’s Christmas tree displays one’s personality upon the evergreen branches of the fir.

Therefore, be bold and be brilliant with your choice. See how they shine amongst the lights strewn so prettily...

5

3

Stockists:

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1

Spotty, £9 from Heal’s www.heals.co.uk

2

Father Christmas, £13.45 from One Forty www.oneforty.co.uk

3

Aqua, £3.95 from Packhouse www.packhouse.com

4

Cowbell, £3.50 from The Nest www.nest-home.com

5

Snowflake, £4 from Gift Search www.giftsearch.co.uk

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Lifestyle

LIFESTYLE

D.I.Y Decorations

Craft work and Christmas go hand in hand like reindeers and sleighs - have a peak at what can be achieved when we spend the afternoon making and creating. To find out, step-by-step how to make your very own D.I.Y decorations visit www.theguide2surrey.com/lifestyle

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DECEMBER 2014

g of tin m up ok ipa fro ck Bo ic d 4 Pi tle art for 201 it p ild r r L om Gu be ou s fr in em r s ov ffe er N O tail th re 20

Experience

FREE parking in Guildford

On four selected Thursdays from 4pm on 27th November & 4th, 11th, 18th December you can experience free parking in selected car parks. *Park all day Boxing day.

Participating car parks are: Bedford Road Multi Storey, Leapale Road, Millbrook, G Live, Bedford Road Surface, Mary Road, Bright Hill, Commercial Road pay and display, Old Police Station, Upper High Street.

*Park all day Boxing day, in all car parks except on road parking. Look out for stickers on ticket machines identifying times and dates and which car parks are involved.

For more ideas on where to go and what to do this christmas, visit www.experienceguildford.com

LIFESTYLE

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Lifestyle

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Last Minute Markets Don’t want to face the throngs on the High Street this Christmas? We don’t blame you. Fortunately, Christmas markets, fetes and fairs are ideal for buying seasonal, handmade gifts for your loved ones, all while basking in the kind of festive glow that makes this time of year so special…

Everything You Need for Christmas Sunday 30 November | 10.30am – 4.00pm St Johns Memorial Hall, Woking

Local craftsfolk and skilled makers get together at St John’s to offer their wares to canny shoppers searching for that elusive handmade treasure to give someone this Christmas – or beyond. A great, relaxed vibe throughout with refreshments available from Seasons Coffee Shop and Deli.

as Fair

Chobham Christm

- 8.00pm mber | 4.30pm Friday 5th Dece to festivities Chobham in style th anks

The Farnham Pott Christmas Market ery

Frida y 5th December | 6p m – 9pm The Farnham Pottery, Qu ennells Hill, Wrecclesham, Farnham

its Christmas on t Not Antiques Chobham gets the villa ge. Wha wn do d an e Friday up happening m 3.00pm on th otto starting fro shops will Gr al a’s loc nt e Sa th s All st . ho ay 0pm on Saturd 1.0 painting and ce fa am o 10 o als and als and there’ll be rs pe op around the sh r re fo he be open late s salon. Elsew om Ro t lve Ve l singing, e th th making, caro glitter strands at s dancing, wrea rri tertainment. en Mo d n’s fin re l ild u’l villa ge yo trinkets and ch d an fts gi g llin market stalls se

This annual Christmas Ma rket proves popular with local families and the wider creative community and offers a rich variety of local ceramics and knitwear, festive food and drink and live music, all in the lovely old historic pottery building.

Cellar Ma

gneval Chris

tmas Mar

Sunda y 14 Decem b 3 Churc h Path, W er | 11am-4pm oking This v

ket

ery spec ial event with disc will su ou and nibb nts on the Cella it foodies and w r’s fanta ine aficio les. There stic wine cheeses ’l s as well nados and mea l be wine tastin as beers g with C ts from from Tw ha The Fren o Ducks ch Comte teau Cabezac, , ha and swe , h andm et treats nd painted sign ade gifts s from V from MK h ampers ictoria’s Pastry A , mull ed W rt orkshop s . w T h in row in c the who e and m u le da y h ince pie s and yo stom appil y ‘s hopping u could spend ’ at Cella r Ma gne val. www.ce llarma gn eval.com

The Weybridge Handcrafted Christmas Market Sunday 7th December | 11.30am-2.30pm Christ The Prince Of Peace Parish Hall, Portmore Way, Weybridge Celebrating four successful years, the Weybridge Handcrafted Christmas Market is attended by 600+ people who come to explore the stalls selling a wide array of crafts and gifts including jewellery, woodwork, toys, cakes, and furniture. There’s music from St Charles Borromeo Choir, a Living Nativity Scene and the chance to meet Santa.

How’s that for Christmas?

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LIFESTYLE

DECEMBER 2014

LAST MIN

STOCKIN 9.

13.

1.

12.

15.

3.

10.

2.

Stocking filler stockists: One Forty, Cranleigh: www.oneforty.co.uk

The Nest, Ripley: www.nest-home.co.uk

12. Desk Globe £5.95

6. Elephant Head Coat Hook £24

8. Fig Tree Soap Bar £5.50 15. Archivist Best Matches £5.95

Godalming Food Company, Godalming: www.godalmingfood.co.uk

13. King Brown Sauce £3.75

10. Orange Chocolate Chaud £12

7. Wing Commander Balsa Wood Plane £3.50

14. Hogs Back Advent Ale

LIFESTYLE

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Lifestyle

NUTE:

NG FILLERS 14.

4.

11.

6.

7.

5.

8.

Heal’s, Guildford: www.heals.co.uk

RHS Wisley: www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

5. Sugarplum Garden Mirror £6

1. Miniature Digger £5.50

Packhouse, Runfold, Farnham: www.packhouse.com

2. Wind Up Tiger £2.99

9. Faux Brass Bird £3.95

11. Candle and Cover £???

4. Antique Tambourine £15

3. Giant Milk Chocolate Coin £2.99

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LIFESTYLE

DECEMBER 2014

For Him

Six Scents

Eight & Bob

Eau de Toilette (£125/100ml)

For Her

Eight & Bob came about when Albert Fouquet, the son of a Parisian aristocrat, experimented with fragrance essence in the family chateau.

Upon receiving a visit from John F. Kennedy, Albert discovered his biggest fan.

After returning to New York, JFK requested 8 samples of Albert’s fragrance and requested a further one for his butler, Bob. Fouquet sent the fragrance signed, Eight & Bob, this gave the scent its catchy name.

Carthusia Fiori di Capri Eau de Toilette (£69.50/100ml)

Fiori di Capri was discovered by accident when the Carthusian Monks received a royal visit and prepared some flowers to dress the occasion.

Whilst disposing of the flowers, the Monks discovered that the aroma of wild carnation, ylang ylang and amber had penetrated into the water creating a magical floral scent.

Ulrich Lang Lightscape Eau de Toilette (£70/100ml)

Lightscape is the perfect scent for the modern dandy. Notes of galbanum, Sicilian lemon and violet leaves open the scent and quickly dry-down into a long-lasting aroma principally formed of iris, cyclamen and tonka bean.

It’s uplifting, energising and beautifully masculine.

Czech & Speake No.88 Cologne (£85.00/100ml)

Histoires de Parfum 1873 Eau de Parfum (£74.00 / 60ml) Top notes of grapefruit, orange, tangerine and bergamot rest over middle notes of violet, orange blossom and lavender. The dry down is chiefly formed of vanilla, caramel and white musk striking the perfect balance between freshness and depth. Youthful, sparkling and mischievous.

No.88 is a truly English scent that is powerful and wonderfully aromatic.

Bergamot, rose otto and exotic frangipani have been fused with vetiver, sandalwood and geranium to deliver a welladjusted aroma that is balanced and charming. No.88 is best suited to those who like to turn heads.

Escentric Molecules - Molecule 01 (£65.50/100ml) Developed by German master perfumer Geza Schoen, Molecule 01 is a simple, inquisitive aroma formed from just a single ingredient. ISO E Super is a ‘molecule’ used in many fragrances but Schoen has refined it to create a scent that is mysterious and completely individual. Molecule 01 has a pheromonic effect on the nose.

All available in Surrey from www.thegroomingclinic.com

TheGuide2Woking

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SPORT

DECEMBER 2014

WOKING VS ALDERSHOT TOWN FC Following financial meltdown at Aldershot Town and continued optimism at Woking FC, both teams were always likely to have varied 2014/15 campaigns. Indeed, as many predicted, the season thus far in the Vanarama Conference has been a tale of two very different stories. While the former yo-yos in amongst the tables midriff, the latter teases, winks and waves with the thought of promotion.

Garry Hill’s Woking side, however, play host to Andy Scott’s Aldershot Town, in a Christmas Cracker of a derby match, on the 28th December. It was a superb Guiseppe Sole free-kick that gave Woking their first ever league victory at Aldershot back in September - a victory that is sure to add to the rivalry the sides already have, in this reverse festive fixture.

ALDERSHOT TOWN

After following Aldershot football for over sixty-six years, there’s not much John Hannah hasn’t seen regarding the Shots. Despite being a little down on the season so far, John hasn’t lost hope of promotion…

“In all honesty, it’s been a frustrating season so far” How would you rate your season so far, John?

In all honesty, it’s been a frustrating season so far. Whilst our defence is tight and we aren’t conceding many, simultaneously, we don’t score many either.

What/Who has surprised you this season?

The thing that has surprised me most is the inconsistency of the Shots. Never sure which team will turn up. One day you could get an attacking, free-flowing side, with plenty of ideas and on another day, it could be completely the opposite.

Who’s been your key player up to this point?

Kieron Forbes on loan from Forest Green Rovers has been our best player. He’s a hardworking, industrious midfielder. I hope we can extend the loan in January.

What are your ambitions for the remainder of the season?

Hopefully we can finish high mid table to play-off position. That was the aim after administration last season and it would show superb progress.

We caught up with couple of supporters of the teams to get the low-down from the stands.

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Sport

SPORT

THE BIG MATCH PREVIEW WOKING FC Jacob Greenway, Woking FC’s media man and die-hard supporter, seems somewhat surprised with his side’s start to the season Optimistic, mind.

“Who knows? The season could yet end at Wembley Stadium!”

How would you rate your season so far, Jacob?

It has been a very good start. With over a quarter of the season gone Woking FC seem to be gathering momentum and really challenging for promotion. Although at the start of the season fans knew we had a good side, it has been very impressive watching it all come together.

What/Who has surprised you this season?

The attacking threat from Woking has been incredible and this was also assisted by the unexpected loan signing of Jack Marriott we performed very well on loan at Kingfield last season.

Who’s been your key player up to this point?

Scott Rendell is currently top scorer in the league and has been very impressive in front of goal. Giuseppe Sole has also been key to the side’s success with spectacular goals from set pieces and, of course, the winner against Aldershot. Christ Arthur, on loan from AFC Wimbledon, has also been very impressive, both going forwards and in defence. In that sense it’s hard to say, but it’s between the three.

What are your ambitions for the remainder of the season?

Barnet look as if they are going to mount a very strong challenge for the title and with Woking significantly better than sides in the middle of the table, I hope they can push for a play-off spot. Who knows, the season could yet end at Wembley Stadium!

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DECEMBER 2014

Ring-A-Roses Surrey’s Florist

A unique range of homewares handpicked for their style and originality

01483 608614

Remembering your loved ones at Christmas Memorial Wreath available 7 Hermitage Road, St Johns, Woking, Surrey GU21 8JE

01483 756579

Our Christmas Showroom and Shop will be open from 24th November to 23rd December Monday – Friday 9am-5pm Unit 3 Sterling Barns, Knowle Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8JP

Shop online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: www.alsohome.com

flowers@ring-a-roses.net | www.ring-a-roses.net

ALSO HOME 1/4 Nov 14 NEW.indd 1

21/10/2014 16:48

Give the gift of Go Karting

This Christmas with Gift Vouchers for your loved ones

“For drivers aged 8-80!”

Daytona Sandown Park, More Lane, Esher, Surrey KT10 8 AN T: 033 033 27870 | E: sandown@daytona.co.uk

buy online at www.daytona.co.uk

TheGuide2Woking

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SPORT

DECEMBER 2014

ON YOUR MARKS...

“ Events like

Gofest aren’t just about what they can do for someone over a weekend, but for a lifetime and a lifestyle

“

- Kevin Keegan

SPORT

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Sport

GET SET... GO FEST!!

By Tayler Willson

Taking place between the 10th – 12th July 2015 is a brand new Guildford-based festival experience with a twist. Gofest has been organised to tackle an ever-growing epidemic of inactivity in the UK...

Over the three-day period, 15,000+ people will travel to Surrey Sports Park from all over the United Kingdom to partake in more than fifty sports and activities, no matter what their ability or age, ranging from football and rugby, to downhill skiing and aero-Ball (I know, me neither!).

The daytime activities will be perfectly complimented by exciting evening entertainment and offsite camping - completing the ultimate festival feel.

Gofest ambassador and former England football superstar, Kevin Keegan, believes that despite governing bodies highlighting the ever-growing inactivity in our youngsters, it’s high time someone took action to help the crisis – the exact reason why he was keen to get involved in the project.

“As soon as they [Gofest] approached me, I said right away that they could count me in. In terms of the people involved and the ambition Gofest has, it ticks so many boxes for me. There’s always talk about obesity and tackling obesity; the Government talks about it, the health service talks about it, but what they don’t tell us is who’s going to do something about it. Events like Gofest aren’t just about what

they can do for someone over just a weekend, but for a lifetime and a lifestyle; giving someone a chance to try something they might really enjoy or be good at, but they wouldn’t have had the chance to try without the festival. It really can finally tackle the problem.”

Keegan, who will be attending the three-day event next year with his own project ‘Sokka’, will also be joined by fellow Gofest ambassador, and former Olympian, Sharron Davies.

Sharron, who runs a website called Parents4Sport that advises parents on getting their kids into sports, admitted she was confident that Gofest will be a success and that it will ultimately encourage youngsters to put down their phones and computers, and really break a sweat – something she cares deeply about.

“I worry terribly about the country’s rising obesity rate

and where we, as a country, are going to go and will be in, say, twenty years’ time.

Kids are becoming less and less active and how we hot-wire our children are, usually, how they continue into their teenage and adult lives and I’m certain that events like this will encourage more sporting participation and will give everyone a fair chance.”

Tickets are available directly from www.gofest.co.uk and are at a special early-bird rate until December 31st 2014, when prices will go up between 15-20%!

By Tayler Willson

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DECEMBER 2014

BALLERS:

TALKING TO SURREY UNITED After a troubled first campaign in the British Basketball League, Surrey United are eager to improve on last season’s standings.

Tayler Willson caught up with some of the side’s players to discuss the season so far, their expectations and, well, Nando’s…

Kramer Knutson

Trevor Setty

What are your thoughts on Surrey Sports Park?

When you’re not on court or in the gym, do you go out and about round Guildford and Surrey?

I am proud to call Surrey Sports Park my home, it is world class. Everything you need to improve as an athlete is all in one place. It’s this, alongside recreation and relaxation that makes Surrey Sports Park a place where I spend hours.

When you’re not on court or in the gym, do you go out and about round Guildford and Surrey?

In Guildford I go with my girlfriend to walk the stone paved high street, check out the Guildhall clock and have a look in the shops.

What are your expectations for Surrey United this season?

We play entertaining and exciting basketball. The playoffs are in sight for us. We have a talented and hard-working team that is very capable of playing and winning in the postseason.

I love shopping and Guildford has some great shops that fit my tastes. My favourite clothing shop, Urban Outfitters, gets most of my attention!

It’s great to get a strawberry and ice cream waffle at Creams too.

How’s it going this campaign, both on a personal level and team one too?

We are in a bit of a transitional rut but it’s very exciting. We will be firing on all cylinders here shortly so it’s definitely a fair idea to get some tickets and come on down, personally I feel like I will be playing my best basketball as the season gets deeper. It’s even more fun to play in front of fresh eyes.

What are your expectations for Surrey United this season?

We can go as far as we allow ourselves to go. I’m excited for this next part of the season and you should be too. I am ambitious and the crowd can really spark some energy and create momentum!

SPORT

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Sport

Elvisi Dusha

Erick Forson

What are your thoughts on Surrey Sports Park?

What are your thoughts on Surrey Sports Park?

It’s a fantastic place to train, the facilities are insane and, to be honest, it’s the staff that makes it really what it is. They’re really into what they do and not just there because they have to be – it’s really great. They make game days what they are for us.

What are your expectations for Surrey United this season?

I believe that we will make the play-offs. I’m not saying I hope we make them, I simply know we will make the play-offs. Changes have been made and we’ve improved. The fact we had a shaky start shouldn’t stunt us. We will make the playoffs.

With Christmas fast approaching, can you tell us what that time of year means to you?

Most importantly I just love spending time with my family. Even though I don’t live far from them, I rarely get time to go and visit and Christmas time provides an opportunity for me to see my brothers, my mum, my dad and the rest of my family. That’s what’s important to me.

The Sports Park is really great for us. It’s full of good people who really look out for the team and really care about what they’re doing. We’ve a good fan base there, despite the rough start to the season we had.

When you’re not on court or in the gym, do you go out and about round Guildford and Surrey?

Honestly, I’m not from around the Surrey area, but recently we’ve started to go out after matches and training a lot more - Even if it’s going to Guildford town centre and grabbing a bite to eat. We’re doing it more.

How’s it going this campaign, both on a personal level and team one too?

This is my first year here and it’s been a good experience so far, we just need to win more games. I feel like we just need to increase our team chemistry and in-turn our performances will rise. The more games we play, the better we’ll get.

What are your expectations for Surrey United this season?

We definitely have the talent to turn the season around and we know that when we’re on our game, we can beat anyone in this league. We know that if we play to our full potential each game, we’ll be a very competitive team in this league.

Kirk Crecco What are your thoughts on Surrey Sports Park?

During the last year and a half that I’ve been in England, I’ve been fortunate enough to have played in a number of great athletics facilities across the country, but I think that Surrey Sports Park is definitely one of the premier venues for sport. It has been, and is, a fantastic home for us as players. The stands have been filling up despite some of the struggles we have had early on, and that means a lot to us.

When you’re not on court or in the gym, do you go out and about round Guildford and Surrey?

I’ve always tried to get out and explore the cities where I’ve been fortunate enough to play. I’m big into films, so I’ve really enjoyed going to the cinema. I also like to do as the locals do (when in Rome, right?) and relax/catch up with friends at

a few quiet pubs in. And I can’t forget to mention that I am a regular at Nando’s (they have the best chips!).

How’s it going this campaign, both on a personal level and team one too?

On the court, we’ve started off a little bit slower than I think most of us anticipated, but I think it’s natural for us to go through some growing pains early on. We have a whole new roster in comparison to last year’s team with many new faces. So it’s to be expected. On a personal level, I’ve enjoyed the greater opportunity I’ve been given to demonstrate my skills here and the increased level of responsibility that that comes with it. I only expect that my play will get stronger as the year goes on.

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DECEMBER 2014

SPORTS NEWS WOKING WALKING BASKETBALL Wednesdays 11:30am until 12:30pm You may remember we featured Walking football recently; well here’s your chance to try another sport in the same vein at Woking Leisure Centre Designed to help people get active, Walking Basketball is also a great way to get people back playing basketball who are recovering from injuries.

What’s best it about it though is that sessions are FREE! www. woking.gov.uk | 01483 743804

JUDGEMENT DAY, BAGSHOT (21st December) Today we have the country’s first team-only obstacle course race event!

Taking place on the Army Alpine Training Area in Bagshot, Judgement Day will feature women’s, men’s and mixed categories races (as well as mud and fun). Your team must have at least 6 members and if you’re running with a mixed team there must be at least three women and three men. Up there with the likes of Tough Mudder, this is a great race to get involved in and well worth the effort as it will justify all the eating and drinking that comes with the season. www.judgement-day.co.uk

DAYTONA RACING, SANDOWN Throughout December Sandown Park offers not just horseracing and live music – there’s an awesome outdoor go-kart centre too…

Featuring two tracks, the GP Circuit and the Indie Circuit Daytona is a great place to hone your motorsport skills.

The GP Circuit is the full 900m track, designed to suit racers of all abilities.

The Indy Circuit is a reduced 475 metre track; with five tight turns and a couple of short straights, it is ideally suited to smaller adult groups and junior events.

Whichever you decide, this will be a blast from first to last! www.daytona.co.uk.

WINTER FESTIVAL, KEMPTON PARK 26th & 27th December

Racing aficionados, you will have this very much on your calendar – for the Boxing Day session (the first of this two day festival) sees Kempton Park’s flagship race; the King George VI Chase. If cold turkey on December 26th isn’t your bag, then coming to Kempton is a rather tempting alternative…

The second day of the Festival, on Saturday 27th December 2014, stars two Group 2 races and a host of competitive handicaps, always providing key clues for the rest of the National Hunt Season.

The William Hill Winter Festival is a must for any jump fans during the festive season. Wrap up warm, head down to Kempton and enjoy some top drawer horse racing. Visit www.kempton.co.uk for more info.

TheGuide2Woking

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G

E

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0FFING! 15% C SERVI

The Perfect Venue

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MAJOR

E

SERVIC

BOOKED YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY?

FREE collection and delivery on requ est.

Local friendly service with over 40 years experi

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3 Course Menu including Coffee & Mince Pies £23.00 per person through to Sunday 21st December

We are able to cater from 2 to 110 people and are ideally situated between Guildford and Woking, easy access off the A3 with ample FREE parking Please visit our website

www.suttongreengc.co.uk/functions/sunday-lunch or contact our Events Team on

01483 770199

From lunches to parties, let Surrey Sports Park host your winning festive celebrations this December.

Get in touch, let us know your plans and sit back while we organise your Christmas celebrations!

01483 683888

thebench@surreysportspark.co.uk

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OFFERS

DECEMBER 2014

#small card BIG OFFERS EVERYDAY HEROES...

SCHZAM! Clarke, Woking’s Super Recycler, shows off his shower power by recycling plastics from all over the house!

!

OW P A K

BE SQUEAKY CLEAN AND RECYCLE YOUR PLASTICS! By recycling your plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays at the kerbside, you can help to: L

L

L

Save time – oil is used to make plastic; the more we use the higher its price Save the planet – Woking families use 40kg of plastic each year; enough to make 1,000 bottles Save energy – one recycled plastic bottle saves enough energy to power a 60-watt light bulb for three hours!

BE AN EVERYDAY HERO. RECYCLE FOR WOKING. Twitter: @WokingCouncil #RecycleForWoking Phone: 01483 755855 www.woking.gov.uk/everydayheroes

TheGuide2Surrey.com/Offers

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DECEMBER OFFERS For the one who holds THE ORANGE CARD in the palm of their hand...

Below, for you dear reader, are our exclusive offers, sourced solely for you, the people who hold the ORANGE CARD in the palm of your hands.

Saving money whilst savouring Surrey’s delights has never been so easy; either sign up online for your pocket sized card of fun or be digital and get the app for your smartphone.

It’s all free and so easy. For more good times visit www.thegoodtimeguide.com

HAIR AND BEAUTY KOKO, Guildford 25% OFF Selected stylists

The Legion BUY ONE GET ONE FREE ON ALL COCKTAILS (BEFORE MIDNIGHT)

Phillip Hussey, Guildford 25% OFF (New clients) Monday-Thursday Julia Lampard 20% OFF TOTAL BILL with selected stylists MJ Crystal Beauty 40% OFF OPI NAILS Beauty Case London 20% OFF dermatological facial treatments Anis barbers 15% OFF sunbeds

Surrey Sports Park, Guildford BUY ONE GET ONE FREE SWIMMING

Anis barbers 15% OFF tattoo and hair removal (Mon - Wed) Gina Ballerini 30% OFF hair services (new customers) Gina Ballerini 20% OFF beauty treatments (new clients)

Spectrum, Guildford BUY ONE GET ONE FREE On any public ice skating sessions

Keystone BUY ONE GET ONE FREE ON BURGERS

Fountain Beauty Therapy £15 OFF selected treatments

FOOD AND DRINK

Victory Chop House KIDS EAT FREE AT SUNDAY CARVERY Haywards at Hurtwood 20% OFF FOOD BILL. Mon-Thurs The Legacy Thatchers Hotel 25% OFF FOOD Burrito Loco GET AN 8” BURRITO FOR £3 (Normally £5.50)

HOTEL The Legacy Thatchers Hotel 12 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 9 MONTHS On new gym memberships

FILM & THEATRE Ambassadors, Woking FILM TICKETS FOR £5.50, £7.50 FOR 3D Electric theatre FILM FESTIVAL TICKETS £5 THEATRE

SPORT Spectrum, Guildford TWO GAMES OF BOWLING for £5 Spectrum, Guildford £20 OFF FAMILY FUN DAY TICKETS

Britannia 20% OFF FOOD BILL

Daytona 15% OFF EXCLUSIVE EVENT Bookings sports and leisure

Cau 20% OFF LUNCH Monday-Thursday

OTHER

Café Fig 25% OFF TOTAL BILL Fox & Pelican, Grayshott 20% OFF LUNCH AND DINNER

Mr Simms, Guildford 20% OFF ALL PICK AND MIX

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ME

DECEMBER 2014

GILLY BOTTE The Party Planner Who are you and what do you do?

I am Gillian Botte and I am an event organiser.

I started out as a Cordon Bleu chef and had an outside catering business which I ran for 8 years in Yorkshire. I was out in muddy fields in a marquee, doing the food; but all I could think of was ‘how on earth do we make this look attractive?’! I loved it.

How did you get into party planning?

What was your inspiration?

Do you follow trends in order to create your party themes or do you have a distinct style?

My first job on my own was back in 1988 with the Australian and New Zealand cricket teams, putting together a programme of events for them in Dubai. It was simply the right place and the right time. You need organisation and structure to party plan, but also creativity and attention to detail.

I like to meet with the clients and they will usually have a clear idea with a budget. I try and get as much information and to make them feel relaxed. I ask what they do for a living, where did they grow up etc. Which are questions they’re not expecting, but I’ll then work out what might suit them based on my experience. I’ll usually give them two options; one which is the ‘sensible’ one, which is a glorified running order, and the other option is crazy and all out, where we’ll bring all potential ideas in.

What’s the best party that you have planned?

What would be your ideal Christmas party?

Family parties are great when you see everyone coming together. I think my favourite has been a recent event that lasted three days. We also did a James Bond party with pyrotechnics and helicopter landing etc. It was great.

A real, traditional Christmas definitely: glitzy golds and deep reds; lots of mulled wine and champagne. The Christmas tree would be mega and I’d have waiters and waitresses dressed as elves serving interesting canapés.

Music wise I would have traditional carols being sung - and cocktails, got to love the cocktails!

I think it was from growing up overseas. I was always being dragged to a party. We would be at parties three times a week and the family were forever entertaining. I’ve got a real passion for food and for me, that is the core.

What factors contribute to a successful party?

That’s a tricky one. I actually think it’s when the client is surprised by the outcome, which sounds ridiculous. Our most discerning clients will say “people are still talking about it!” and then they book follow up parties on the back of it.

Local People.

Extra Ordinary Lives.

What do you enjoy most about living and working in Surrey?

For me, I’ve always moved around and lived abroad. I’ve been in the area for a while now and it feels so nice to have a base and it feels like home. The people are so diverse, the culture is great and it feels really cosmopolitan now. There’s such a plethora of things to see and do.

For some wonderful party planning, get I touch with Gilly at www.thegreatbigevent.com

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WE’RE VERY HANDY FOR CHRISTMAS

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COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

T: 01483 763 661 E: woking@gibbsanddandy.com

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Thistle Magnetic Plaster - an innovatiove plaster that attracts magnets Turn any wall space into a fun gallery or interactive notice board with our easy-to-apply Thistle Magnetic Plaster, which can be applied to new or existing walls.

T: 01483 763 661 E: woking@gibbsanddandy.com