The Jersey Life - October issue by The Jersey Life

OCTOBER 2018 | www.life-mags.com

Waxing Lyrical A BEAUTY REVIEW

welcome to

FIRENZE SEI FANTASTICO Florence, the capital of the Italian province of Tuscany

Home Living... home loving

SPICED HONEY IS THE DULUX COLOUR OF THE YEAR FOR 2019 3 STYLISH HOME DECOR TRENDS FOR AUTUMN 6 HOME IMPROVEMENTS THAT WILL ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY PUT ANOTHER LOG ON • KITCHEN STYLE INSPIRATION WELL AND TRULY LIT • HOW TO BOOST YOUR GARDEN SOIL THIS AUTUMN

Visit our showroom soon to view the range of Classic and Handless Pronorm kitchens. From an initial design consultation, to completion, Direct Furniture Supplies can undertake your complete kitchen project, providing conceptual design work to full HD rendered visuals. We like to work closely with our clients, to help them create a sumptuous working and living area. We can also work with your interior designer to help turn a concept into reality. Our extensive displays also show bathrooms and bedrooms, so providing fitted furniture throughout the home. Please feel free to call into the showroom to meet our team, or ring to discuss your requirements.

Direct Furniture Supplies 17/19 Burrard Street St. Helier | Jersey C.I. | JE2 4WS Tel: 01534 732314 E: showroom@dfsinteriors.com www.dfsinteriors.com

Unbeatable vehicle sourcing service, with hand-picked stock cars. A two year comprehensive warranty on every vehicle, competitive funding options and part-exchanges welcomed.

01534 281281

info@jemec.je

www.jemec.je

@Jemec.je

Publisher Fish Media Ltd Head Office 20 Hill Street, St Helier, JE2 4UA Telephone: 01534 619882 Email: thejerseylife@fishmedia.biz Website: www.life-mags.com Editor Juanita Shield-Laignel Art Director Alexis Smith Travel Writer Rebecca Underwood underwoodrebecca@hotmail.com Photography Simon Finch simon@fishmedia.biz Production Sarah le Marquand Sales Executive Juanita Shield-Laignel juanita@fishmedia.biz Accounts and Administration Sarah Donati-Ford accounts@fishmedia.biz Directors Jamie Fisher Peter Smith Contributors Stephen Cohu Penny Downes Martin Flageul Rebecca Underwood Mark Shields Lorraine Pannetier Alistair Shield-Laignel Paul Darroch

Follow us on Twitter: @TheJerseyLife1 Like us on Facebook: The Jersey Life © All rights reserved. The Jersey Life is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in this publication and any loss arising there from. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to The Jersey Life the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such material. Fish Media reserves the right to reject of accept any advertisement, article or material supplied for publication or edit such material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media. We accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes and no responsibility can be taken for the content of these pages.

Will this celebrated autumnal month be as changeable as last I wonder? Evocative of long, crisp walks among beautiful warm toned, falling leaves, lighting the fire and curling up with a good book, October brings much comfort and opportunity to be at home.

radically; Martin Flageul, Wine Consultant, is asking ‘Is Wine Good For Us’? Remaining with beauty, I enjoyed the most wonderful treatment with Rio Hair and Beauty’s newest recruit, Nicky, who was truly wonderful. Read all about my top-to-toe treat on page 63.

However, it can also be a time of year for taking a good look at our homes and making suitable changes in plenty of time for the soon to be upon us, festive season. With this in mind our Autumn Home Living includes some practical articles on home improvements to add value to our properties and we also look at autumn trends.

Not to be outdone, whilst I was being pampered, our Director, Jamie Fisher was enjoying a treat of his own…test driving the new Lexus NX 300h F Sport…he tells us all about his experience on page 70.

Curling up in front of the fire maybe on the cards for some, but for Karen Gallichan, long distance swimmer and fund-raiser, life is wet and cold no matter what time of year. I recently had the enormous pleasure of interviewing Karen…the results can be read on page 12.

Well that’s just about it for another month…work on our November Health and Wealth edition has already begun so it just remains for me to wish you a warm and comfortable October and a Happy Halloween; may your ghouls be truly ghoulish and your pumpkins be plump and ripe, not squash-ed! Ha ha…

Perhaps our ‘Autumn Jackets’ fashion piece on page 58 can help us all to prepare for colder weather and ‘Put Another Log On’, page 34 should warm the cockles of your heart! Creative expression in our work and alternative careers are on rise, Mark Shields corroborates this in his piece ‘Life Coaching – the Career of the Millennium’. Changing career direction is more and more common as we all seek lives that fulfil us on every level. Penny Downes of PennyFeathers is helping us all to ‘Detox’…often thought of as a ubiquitously spring pursuit, Penny thinks different and not to veer off the theme too

September edition’s crossword solutions: Across: 7 Barely; 8 Follow; 10 Capable; 11 Total; 12 Need; 13 Admit; 17 Brace; 18 Oral; 22 Endow; 23 Telling; 24 Cogent; 25 Accept. Down: 1 Abscond; 2 Trapper; 3 Globe; 4 Contain; 5 Elite; 6 Swell; 9 Mendacity; 14 Drawing; 15 Arbiter; 16 Flighty; 19 Teach; 20 Adage; 21 Slack.

Juanita Shield-Laignel If you have an interesting story to share or would like your business reviewed, please feel free to call me on 619882. I’d love to hear from you.

October 2018 5 WELCOME

and The Jersey Life contact information

10 UP AND COMING Events and walks around Jersey

74 REVIEWS AND CLUES Book of the month plus the crossword

INTERVIEW 12 YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE ONLY ONE SWIM AWAY FROM A GOOD MOOD Juanita Shield-Laignel catches up with Karen Gallichan

ARTS, CULTURE AND MUSIC 16 KATE ROYAL Celebration of Armistice Day

HOME LIVING 20 SPICED HONEY The colour of the year 2019

26 STYLISH TRENDS FOR AUTUMN By Gabrielle Fagan

32 HOME IMPROVEMENTS How to add value to your property

34 PUT ANOTHER LOG ON How to choose energy efficient wood burners

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Be excited

Save regularly to reach your life moment with our new Premium Saver account You must be 16 years or over and an existing customer to open an account. You can only have one Premium Saver Account in your sole name, and only one Premium Saver Account in joint names with another person. No minimum deposit is required to open the account; no minimum deposit needs to be made on a regular basis; and there is no maximum balance limit. However, to earn the bonus rate of interest in each monthly bonus period, your account balance must be between £25,000 – £1,000,000 and you must not make any withdrawals in that month.

Visit your local branch Call us on 01534 282828

View natwestinternational.com

Like @Natwest.Int on Facebook

The Royal Bank of Scotland International Limited trading as NatWest International (NatWest International ). Registered Office: Royal Bank House, 71 Bath Street, St. Helier, Jersey, JE4 8PJ. Tel. 01534 282850. Regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. NatWest International is a participant in the Jersey Banking Depositor Compensation Scheme. The Scheme offers protection for eligible deposits of up to £50,000. The maximum total amount of compensation is capped at £100,000,000 in any 5 year period. Full details of the Scheme and banking groups covered are available on the States of Jersey website www.gov.je/dcs or on request. Under the scheme(s) customers are entitled to make only one claim per licensed entity regardless of the number of brands or trading names contained within that licensed entity and customers are entitled to make one claim only per licensed entity in the jurisdiction where the deposits are held. Therefore as NatWest International brand is operated by RBS International it is not licensed in its own right. A person with a deposit in NatWest International and a deposit in RBS International would thus only be entitled to make one claim. NatWest International is a member of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group. The Royal Bank of Scotland plc - Registered in Scotland No SCO83026. Registered office: 36 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2YB. The Royal Bank of Scotland plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. The latest report and accounts are available at www.investors.rbs.com. NatWest International places funds with other parts of RBS Group and thus its financial standing is linked to the Group. Depositors may wish to form their own view on the financial standing of NatWest International and the Group based on publicly available information. The latest report and accounts are available at www.natwestinternational.com/financial-results Calls may be recorded.

44 HOME LIVING 36 LOOKING FOR KITCHEN STYLE INSPIRATION Top trends for 2019

40 WELL AND TRULY LIT New light fittings for your home

42 RENEWABLE HEATING THAT CUTS CARBON And your energy bill

44 COFFEE GROUNDS, HAIR AND SHEEP’S WOOL

Ways to enrich your soil on a budget

HEALTH AND BEAUTY 60 THINK PINK 2018 After breast cancer Jersey

62 RETOX TO A DETOX By Penny Downes of Pennyfeathers

63 WAXING LYRICAL A beauty review by Juanita Shield-Laignel

66 LIFE COACHING The career of the millennium by Mark Shields

FOOD AND DRINK 48 RECIPES FOR BONFIRE NIGHT Stunning recipes that go off with a bang

72 IS WINE GOOD FOR YOU?

By Martin Flageul DipWSET

ANTIQUES 56 THE IMPORTANCE OF CONDITION By Stephen Cohu

FASHION

58 THE BEST JACKETS FOR AUTUMN DAYS By Katie Wright

TRAVEL 50 FIRENZE – SEI FANTASTICO By Rebecca Underwood

54 BRECQHOU AND ITS ONIONS By Caroline Bougeard

MOTORING 70 LEXUS NX 300h F SPORT The latest set of wheels taken for a spin

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Clearr investment. Puree energy.

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Did yo ou know a third o you of JJersey’s Jersey y’’s electricity l i i comes come es from f La Ra nce TTidal idal Barrage e in Rance Franc ce? That’s That’’s 220 million million France? units a year r, enough to o power year, 30,00 00 Island homes u 30,000 using an avera age of 7,200 units s. average units. energy, Secure, a affordable, sustainable energ gy y, we go the mile. extra mile e.

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what’s on...

Our selection of events to enjoy in Jersey this month

Let us know the month before your event is due to take place, and we shall do our best to include it in our listings. Contact: thejerseylife@fishmedia.biz

Arts & Culture Concert at 16 New Street – English Music from the Romantic Period Following the success of last year’s sell-out concert, the Trust has invited back Bella Voce to come and perform in 2018. The Georgian House is the perfect setting for tonight’s programme of 19th century Romantic music as the strong lyrical melodies and rich harmonies written for piano and voice were traditionally performed in period homes such as 16 New Street. Thursday 18 October - 6.30pm; Concert starts at 7.00pm Meeting Point: 16 New Street Price: £10 Members; £12 Non-Members to include a welcome drink Proceeds shared between the National Trust for Jersey and The Jersey Vocal Trust Juliette Burton: Butterfly Effect Following total sell-out Edinburgh Fringe shows in 2015, 2016 and 2017, Award-winning comedian Juliette Burton will be touring the UK this autumn with Butterfly Effect, her hugely popular show, in which she investigates the power of kindness and whether small, kindhearted acts can make the world a better place.

“INTELLIGENT, EMOTIONAL, LIBERATING.” Voice Magazine. At a time when most of us find it hard enough being kind to ourselves – let alone others – is being nice outdated? 20 October 2018 ~ 20:00 to 22:00 Jersey Opera House Gloucester Street, St. Helier Contact: +44 (0) 1534 511115 boxoffice@jerseyoperahouse.co.uk www.jerseyoperahouse.co.uk Magical Mozart by Candlelight From the producers of A Viennese Strauss Gala, this sumptuous fully costumed show immerses us in the wonderful music and the classical baroque world of one of the world’s greatest romantic composers - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With beautiful settings, costumes, lighting, and of course candles, the European Baroque Ensemble and world class opera singers transport you back to the sumptuous past. “A sublime evening…magical, it certainly was!” Jersey Evening Post. 26 October 2018 ~ 20:00 to 22:30 Jersey Opera House Gloucester Street, St. Helier Contact: +44 (0) 1534 511115 boxoffice@jerseyoperahouse.co.uk www.jerseyoperahouse.co.uk

Courtney Pine Presents: Black Notes From The Deep Multi-instrumentalist Courtney Pine CBE is a British born Jazz Giant. In the 80’s he was one of the first black British jazz artists to make a serious mark on the jazz scene. He’s had numerous BBC Jazz Awards, MOBO’s, a Mercury Music Prize nomination and remained at the forefront of UK jazz with a contemporary jazz style that integrates modern British sounds like drum n bass and UK garage alongside soul, hip-hop and deep rooted influences from across the Caribbean. 27 October 2018 20:00 to 22:00 Jersey Opera House Gloucester Street, St. Helier Contact: +44 (0) 1534 511115 boxoffice@jerseyoperahouse.co.uk www.jerseyoperahouse.co.uk

EVENTS

Arts & Culture Sunset Boulevard TimpanAli Productions present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award®-winning masterpiece, Sunset Boulevard, based on the Oscar-winning Billy Wilder film. In her mansion on Sunset Boulevard faded silent-screen goddess, Norma Desmond, lives in a fantasy world. Impoverished screen writer Joe Gillis stumbles into her reclusive world and is seduced by her and her luxurious lifestyle. You’ll find us in Gloucester Street in St Helier, opposite the General Hospital. We’re a 5 minute walk from the main town shopping area and the bus terminus, Liberation Station. 31 October to 03 November 2018 19:30 to 22:00 Jersey Opera House Gloucester Street, St. Helier Contact: +44 (0) 1534 511115 boxoffice@jerseyoperahouse.co.uk www.jerseyoperahouse.co.uk

Food, Fairs & Festivals Cheese Masterclass at Relish Delicatessen Award-winning and picturesque, Relish has the finest cheese, wine, champagne and deli produce available in the Channel Islands. Join us this Autumn, on Thursday evenings, and sit at a beautifully dressed table to learn or improve your knowledge of cheese, and how to create the perfect cheese board. Be inspired and explore the taste, texture and wine pairing available to design your dream plate. This is a ticketed event with 10 places available. 04, 11, 18 & 25 October 2018 18:00 to 22:00 Relish Delicatessen 22 Halkett Street, St Helier Contact:+44 (0) 1534 618844 florian@relishjersey.co.uk www.relishjersey.co.uk Pinkhills with After Breast Cancer Care For one night only, Greenhills is turning Pink, in aid of After Breast Cancer Care. This special evening will include a Pink Champagne reception and a four course Pinkhills themed dinner menu. £45.00 per person. Save the date! 50% of ALL takings throughout the evening at Pinkhills will be donated to After Breast Cancer Care. Call or email to book. 19 October 2018 19:00 to 23:00 Greenhills Country House Hotel Mont de l'Ecole St. Peter Contact: +44 (0) 1534 481042 events@greenhillshotel.com www.seymourhotels.com/greenhills-hotel/events La Faîs'sie d'Cidre - Sponsored by Islands Insurance Celebrating Jersey’s rich heritage of cider production. Bringing together communities, volunteers and of course apple and cider experts. It’s not all about the cider - live music, creative activities for children, dance, great food, great company, competitions, poetry, Genuine Jersey stalls and living history. Lots to do, things to learn, people to meet and fun to be had! Normal admission fees apply. Jersey Heritage members go free.

20 October 2018 10:00 to 19:00 21 October 2018 10:00 to 17:00 Hamptonne Country Life Museum, La Rue de la Patente, St. Lawerence Contact: +44 (0) 1534 863 955 info@jerseyheritage.org www.jerseyheritage.org Black Butter Making at The Elms Come along and get involved in the National Trust for Jersey’s annual Black Butter making event. It is a real community affair with all ages welcome and it is free! Embrace the community spirit as you participate in the ancient art of making Black Butter peeling apples. Friday 26 October – Peeling will start again at 10am until late! Stirring of the apples and other ingredients will commence mid-morning on Friday in the large ‘bachin’ over a roaring fire in the Bake-House and will continue all night until Saturday lunch-time. Volunteers are invited to peel, stir or contribute to the community supper which will take place on Friday evening with live music. Saturday 27 October – Market Day from 10am until 4pm. Pumpkin carving, stalls selling fresh produce, home baked cakes and Jersey Wonders, cider and sausages as well as art and crafts from local artisans. Participate in the jarring up of the freshly made Black Butter which then goes on sale! Kindly supported by JPRestaurants. Thursday 25 October to Saturday 27 October from 2 to 5pm The Elms La Cheve Rue, St Mary www.nationaltrust.je

Sports & Out and About Walk on the Seabed to Icho Tower Discover a marine world that is hidden beneath the ocean and only appears on the lowest tides of the year. Also called “Moonwalks” our walks are in the daytime and the seabed is more than just a barren lunar-like landscape. Venture into Jersey’s very own wilderness, which is covered by some of the highest tides in the world, on a marine exploration with a local trained guide. You may get your feet wet. Visit our website for all dates and online booking. Book online or by phone. The meeting point is confirmed when you book. 11 October 2018 13:15 to 16:15 La Grande Route de la Cote Contact: +44 (0) 7797 853033 info@jerseywalkadventures.co.uk www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk/go/walk-dates Halloween Half Term This October Half Term, bring your little monsters to the Durrell Discovery Centre for a range of spooktacular Halloween-themed crafts and activities. Free with Zoo admission | Family-friendly | No booking required. 27 October to 04 November 2018 10:30 to 15:30 Jersey Zoo, Les Augres Manor La Profonde Rue Contact: +44 (0) 1534 860000 events@durrell.org www.durrell.org/events

The Witches of 16 New Street To celebrate Halloween this half term, the Trust is holding a pop-up children’s event at 16 New Street with a witchy theme aimed at younger visitors. Meet the wicked witch from Snow White in the Georgian Kitchen, settle down with your broomsticks for a witchy themed story in the nursery and take part in a range of Halloween themed craft activities around the table in the Club Room. Come dressed as your favourite character. Admission: Children: £3.00; Adults £6.00; Free for Trust Members and Under 6s. No need to book. Wednesday 31st October 16 New Street, St Helier www.nationaltrust.je

Boo at the Zoo This Halloween, explore the Zoo after dark to find out which ghosts and ghouls visit the grounds after the animals have gone to sleep. The zoo is situated four miles north of St Helier, in the Parish of Trinity. You can reach the zoo by car on the B31 or the public bus on routes 3, 13 and 23. Enjoy a stunning cycle ride by taking cycle routes 3a, 1 or 1b. 27 October 2018 17:00 to 20:00 31 October 2018 17:00 to 20:00 Jersey Zoo, Les Augres Manor La Profonde Rue Contact: +44 (0) 1534 860000 events@durrell.org www.durrell.org/events

The Medieval Dead - Halloween Special Event Join Jersey Heritage for an evening of Halloween Horror in the Magnificent, Medieval Mont Orgueil Castle…if you dare! Visit the Jersey Heritage website to find out more about this special halloween event. But you'll need a ticket to get past the ghouls! Tickets will be available to purchase online from September. 31 October 2018 ~ 17:00 to 22:00 Mont Orgueil Castle, Castle Green, Gorey, St. Martin Contact: +44 (0) 1534 853292 info@jerseyheritage.org www.jerseyheritage.org

Woodland Wanders After Dark During half term, join us for a wander in the woodland with a difference. Setting off at dusk, we will explore the sights and sounds of the woods as the sun goes down. Watch for bats, listen for birds and enjoy a hot chocolate in Le Moulin de Quetivel. Suitable for children aged 4-11. Please book tickets for children only – accompanying adults are free of charge. Monday 29th and Tuesday 30th October Le Moulin de Quetivel, St Peter’s Valley Free for Members, £5 – non-members www.nationaltrust.je

OCTOBER ISSUE | 11

INTERVIEW

‘You’re Only One Swim Away from a Happy Mood’ The title of this article has become a motto for Karen Gallichan; long distance swimmer, fund raiser, joint Manager of Autism Jersey Boutique and Mum. Karen was certainly happy and glowing with vibrancy on the day she visited my office to be interviewed. Her philosophy must therefore be working for her… and here’s why…interview by Juanita Shield-Laignel

and Spartan Swim Squad and as I grew up would go to the Fort and do a few lengths, maybe thirty or so, from time to time. I did a bit of travelling in my twenties but came back to finance, met my now ex-husband, got married and had children - nothing out of the ordinary up to that point.” “My son was my first child with my daughter arriving four years later. At nursery it became apparent my boy was really having difficulties that hadn’t been so prevalent at home, I think partly because I didn’t have anyone to compare him to and also because he has always functioned fairly well on a one to one, it was the interaction with other children that really first alerted us.” I asked Karen if she could tell me about her experience of her son’s early years and diagnosis. “I must say at this stage, my son is now nineteen and lives independently and whilst he and I are happy to share our story with others, he doesn’t like me to use his name and I have to respect that.” I understood and reassured Karen we would be sensitive to her son’s wishes.

LIKE the majority of people, Karen has had her fair share of challenges in life and yet her demeanour and outlook come across as positive. Our paths having crossed a few times over the years, I was aware her connection with Autism Jersey was a very personal one and was interested to know how a person with her particular set of challenges has coped over the years. I asked Karen to start at the beginning and share the story of her both, traumatic and encouraging journey. “I left school at 16 and went straight into finance, as so many of us did in the 80s. Dancing and swimming were my thing, I was always a swimmer, even in childhood. I swam with the Regent Swimming Club

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Karen continued “We had terrible problems straight away with school, with two suspensions the first term, which is pretty much unheard of, we knew there was something wrong and although it wasn’t plain sailing, he was diagnosed in Yr1. We were really relieved when Aspergers was diagnosed and then on top of that a further ADHD diagnosis. It was only with diagnosis, we realised that familiar behavioural patterns suddenly made sense. It is common for people with Autism to struggle with sleeping and there were times when I was pushing my baby boy around the streets at three o’clock in the morning, trying to get him to sleep and then I would have to leave him in his pram for the rest of night or he would wake and not go back to sleep again.” “In hind-sight, any change was always traumatic; going from breast feeding to bottle was almost impossible, going back to work albeit

INTERVIEW part-time when he was six months old, nursery, when his little sister was born and so on, but it was his behaviour in group situations that was really problematic. Teachers would report he didn’t see the other children as people, but more as obstacles and he would physically push them out of the way with quite a lot of force. His first school found his behaviour just too confronting and weren’t equipped to cope, so diagnosis meant we could move him to a school where they had specialist facilities. This was such a relief, to finally have teachers who understood my child and accepted how he was and worked with it…he wasn’t just being naughty…he was behaving in a way that he couldn’t help. They supported us as a whole family, holistically.” “My daughter was a toddler by this stage and life was difficult for her too. My son needed so much attention there were times I felt I couldn’t spread myself equally between them. Spending time with my daughter was hard, but my son likes computer games and there were large portions of time when that was all he wanted to do, he still needs that now, it’s his way to destress, so I would have time for my daughter then.” “I gave up my work in finance just before my son started secondary school. I wanted to give him the best chance…things were difficult, you know what’s it like when you are working….you rush home, go to the shops, get dinner ready….I realised, if I was at home, I could have all that stuff done, pick him up from school, concentrate on helping him with his homework and just have everything being settled and calm. As it happened mainstream secondary didn’t work for him, but I am so pleased I have no regrets about being distracted by work or anything. Things got progressively worse but at least I know, I could not have done any more and actually gave my children my absolute all. When you have a child who is having difficulties your day is so full, not just with the normal domestic things, but also with phone calls and meetings. If I got him to school, I would often have a call within half an hour, I’d be in the supermarket or any number of places and the school would be ringing, so working as well would have been just too hard.” “There were times over the years when I feared for my own safety and for his sister’s, it was very difficult to keep her safe too. Life was really tough for her, not only did she have her brother to deal with but her father and I were going through a divorce too. It’s funny how sometimes at our lowest ebb, is exactly the time we have to fight the most…” “We fought really hard to secure a place for him at a specialist school when he was thirteen, in the New Forest. It wasn’t the easiest of journeys…he wasn’t in school here and there wasn’t any respite hours, he wasn’t able to attend any kind of youth club or engage in extra-curricular activities, we couldn’t even drive anywhere together as a family because the level of challenging behaviour was more than any of us could cope with. He was completely…‘unhappy’…is too light a word…every area of his life was in crisis, there was no choice but to find care for him, but we had to fight to get him that placement. There was nothing else we could have done, but it was still awful; a sense of relief, but at the same time, I felt guilty that I wasn’t able to cope. A whole circle of emotions took over. We’d fought so hard to have him put into care but signing those papers, was the single most difficult thing I’ve done in my life. Having said that, it has given me a huge sense of resilience and I can talk about that in terms of my swimming too.” “Once he’d gone to the UK, it wasn’t easier, just different. Other parents would say ‘it’s alright for you, you’re not living with the problem anymore’ but the travelling was gruelling. If he wanted to come home, I had to fly over, pick him up, fly back with him, he couldn’t travel independently. And the emotional impact of not having

your child at home with you is more than I can say and then of course there were still regular incidents, so I still had many phone calls and had to go over for meetings. It was difficult for my daughter too because she would have to cope with the change in the family dynamic every few weeks, so it was still tough, but it was the best thing for him.” I was interested to know at what stage Karen had become involved with Autism Jersey. “I’d been a Trustee for quite a while and was around in the early days when I met a lady called Catherine who’s children were also on the spectrum. We started a drop-in for parents once a month and set up events for children like parties, because our kids don’t get invited to parties. I then stared doing five or six hours a week admin for them, just to have something when I gave up my work in finance. Catherine and I have such a bond as we have been through similar experiences. Autism Jersey Boutique had been at The Parade but had been rebranded and moved to Bath Street. Catherine and I put forward a proposal and soon found ourselves working together there. As with all things, the more you put in the more you get out and the Boutique is now the most amazing supportive community. We have volunteers that help and many people on the spectrum come in for work experience and in the five years I’ve been doing it, I’ve learnt that everyone has challenges in their lives.” I asked Karen how she finds time to swim and how she became so involved with it? “When I separated from my husband, I was in a really bad place and a friend asked if I would like to be the swimmer in his triathlon relay team. I thought that would give me something to focus on. I had to train to do the fifty meters justice, so got back in the pool in January 2014 with the triathlon being in the July. The moment I started sea swimming, I discovered I loved it and what’s more, you can’t have your phone with you whilst swimming, so nobody could continues overleaf...

OCTOBER ISSUE | 13

INTERVIEW get hold of me during that time. I also love that I’m out in nature, get to slow down and see things that normally pass you by. Also, being single, weekends can be really long and sport gives you companionship. It’s important for my physical health but so important for my mental health. I always say ‘you’re only one swim away from a good mood’. So we swim all year round, I get itchy if I don’t swim for three or four days, I love the buzz the cold water gives you. In winter we swim on Sunday mornings and it’s really sociable, we go for a swim and then a hot chocolate or breakfast…in summer it’s more about grinding out the hours.” I knew Karen had attempted the Channel Swim recently and wanted to know how that had come about. “I did a couple of round Jersey relays in 2016 and then a solo around Jersey last August 2017. That was one of the best days of my life. I did Jersey to France this year in July, it took ten and half hours and was part of my training for the expected eighteen or so hours to do the Channel. I booked it over three years ago. I was out with Sally Minty-Gravett and too many glasses of wine later, I asked her ‘do you think I could do it’ and she simply said ‘worse swimmers than you have done it’, so I booked the next day. I went to England twice during September this year for the swim, but wasn’t even able to get in the water, the conditions were all wrong so we had to abandon and I am booked again for July 2019. This gives me time to increase my speed which gives me more options, it’s preferable for me to swim on a neap tide as on a spring tide, the movement is bigger and when you’re a slower swimmer you run the risk of drifting up into ferry approaches into Calais and the French Coast Guard will insist the swim is aborted if that happens.” “I’m doing it to raise funds specifically for an Autism Jersey Bursary, through my own experience of seeing the joy of the children when we organised the parties, I can see a gap for adults with Autism in terms of funding to help enhance their employment prospects, or improve their quality of life. My own son wanted to do his Day Skipper when he returned from college in the UK and that cost £800…so I thought a bursary people could apply to for help with that sort of thing, would take a lot of pressure off. Some adults with Autism will never work, but it doesn’t mean they don’t have hopes and dreams and aspirations. So far I’ve raised ten thousand pounds; that will help a lot of people.” I was really pleased to hear that Karen’s son was doing so well in life now and asked how he is faring. “We have always accentuated the positives. He is very funny, really caring, and particularly loyal to his UK college friends. He loves the water too so has his Open Water PADI, Day Skipper, VHF and powerboat level 2 licence, he is a fountain of knowledge on Jersey and a wealth of other facts he knows, but just doesn’t cope with people for large amounts of time…he has a great

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foundation but it’s keeping his self-esteem and confidence and mental health buoyant that’s not easy. I have had some heart breaking conversations with my son, he wants to be normal and often feels useless but he is far from it. He lives independently and is much calmer and happier now in his own environment, but I see him very regularly as I do his house work.” “I wouldn’t change him, he’s brilliant. Having him has made me a very difference person. This sort of thing teaches you what is really important in life. The smallest of achievements can be really celebrated. When I put him into care, signing those papers was the hardest thing but as a result, I know that I can get through anything else life throws at me. It doesn’t protect you from emotions, but I know I can push through them. That is also true of long distance swimming. So much of the pain is in your head, but you have to push through and get to the other side! He has certainly made me a more patient person. In Jersey we can be so focused on material things, I like nice things of course, but I learnt early on, that doesn’t really matter, it’s just ‘stuff’, my son and our challenges helped me re-focus my priorities, and I think I’m a much better person for that.” So what does the future hold for Karen? “Training hard, work on my swimming speed and being with my children as much as possible. My daughter is now fifteen and doing really well and continuing to be part of the Autism Jersey support network. Other people just don’t understand quite how powerful it is when you meet someone who knows what you are going through. That support is so crucial.” With that Karen had to go back to work…to continue her quest to help others. I wished her well in her training and look forward to catching up with her during 2019, when her Channel Swim is finally complete.

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ART AND CULTURE

Kate Royal and Celebration of Armistice day Jersey charity Music in Action is delighted to have asked to take centre stage at the island’s official celebration of Armistice Day on 10th November at Fort Regent. The Celebration of Armistice is the penultimate event to the Remembrance Sunday ceremony that will mark 100 years since the signing of the Armistice that ended the Great War in 1918. In the presence of His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, Air Chief Marshall Sir Stephen Dalton GCB and the Bailiff of Jersey, Sir William Bailhache, the Celebration of Armistice concert will draw together the Jersey Chamber Orchestra, the Band of the Island of Jersey, the 300 children in the Jersey Sings Choir, the Jersey adult Armistice Choir and the Jersey Youth theatre, alongside renowned singer Kate Royal. Under the baton of celebrated conductor Stephen Bell, the augmented Jersey Chamber Orchestra will perform musical works by composers linked to the first world war and “Two Brothers” a new commission by Charles Mauleverer, a Jersey composer about two Jersey brothers who fought together one hundred years ago. The piece will be complemented with performances by the Band of the Island of Jersey, popular songs from the Great War by the Jersey Sings Choir, and readings and poetry from the Jersey Youth Theatre. Jersey Life was lucky enough to speak to star soprano Kate Royal who is singing the third movement of the Four Last Songs by Strauss and leading an audience sing-a-long in the Grande Finale including Amazing Grace, I vow to thee my country and Jerusalem. Kate Royal is one of the finest sopranos of our time and was recently described as a sumptuous-sounding soprano.” Her awards include the 2004 Kathleen Ferrier Award, the 2004 John Christie Award, and the 2007 Royal Philharmonic Society Young Artist Award. Her Operatic roles include Pamina Die Zauberflöte, Countess Le nozze di Figaro for the world’s major opera houses, including the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, Teatro Real Madrid, the Opéra de Paris and Glyndebourne Festival Opera. Concert enaggaements include with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Philharmonic, Rotterdam Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra and the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra. Kate, how, mostly, do you listen to music? I’m pretty old-fashioned and still have shelves full of CDs, which I generally listen to in the kitchen on my Ruark music system. My favourite time to put music on is first thing in the morning. It can change the course of the day depending on what gets into your system when you’re still half asleep. I have tried to download albums, but it never seems to work. What was the first recording you bought? The first record that was bought for my sister and me was Kermit the Frog’s Rainbow Connection. Apart from the fact that it is a genius song, the record was bright Kermit green. “Some day we’ll find it, the rainbow connection, the lovers, the dreamers, and me” … pretty thought-provoking for a six-year-old. What single thing would improve the format of concerts? More interaction with the audience, breaking up the odd, starchy atmosphere of some concert and recital halls. In the pop world, artists are constantly talking to their audiences. Hearing the performer speak about the music really helps to break down the formal barrier (but I have to admit the thought of talking to my audience scares me witless). The idea that as musicians we have to be musical intellectuals as well as performers puts me off. The same goes for opera – I think audiences often feel shut out, and directors need to work harder to explain their concepts to the paying public, be it through pre-performance talks or programme notes. 16 | www.life-mags.com

If you had to pick one work to introduce someone to the wonders of classical music, what would it be? It would have be Mahler’s resurrection Symphony. I have experimented with it with my kids and they get pretty excited in the fifth movement. I have performed it many times and had the fortune to be sitting on stage among the brass. It just is an amazing experience to witness a group of people rise to such a climax and feel the earth vibrating. If you had a time machine, which moment in musical history would you travel to? I would like to be transported to Prague on 28 October 1787, the eve of the premiere of Don Giovanni, as Mozart rushed out the composition of the overture in order to hear the completed work the following day. To have gone to the post-show dinner and hung out and got drunk with Wolfgang… What’s the most unusual place you’ve ever performed? I sang a section of Mozart’s Requiem for the BBC’s Holocaust memorial documentary. We filmed it in the snow in a disused arms factory in Auschwitz. Needless to say a pretty overwhelming experience. The Jersey Chamber Orchestra was founded in 2007 as part of the charity Music in Action (MIA). MIA works to promote and support the development of music in Jersey by organising popular cultural events, such as Jersey Sings! and The Liberation International Music Festival and developing music-focused outreach projects for the Jersey community including an employability programme and therapeutic outreach. Alistair Shield-Laignel, Outreach Manager of MIA said: “Bringing high-calibre musicians, soloists and composers to Jersey to work with our young performers is one of our charitable aims of Music in Action so we are thrilled to be able to provide this opportunity to the local community through the performance of the World War One Medley with 300 local children and also lots of choral and orchestral workshops. The show case is set to be a truly brilliant and memorable performance with popular music that we know and love.” Tickets are priced from £20 and can be bought on-line at eventbrite.co.uk or in person from Fort Regent Box Office. For further information on the Jersey Chamber Orchestra or Music in Action, please contact the Music in Action offices on 01534 767547 or email info@musicjersey.com

HISTORY

Jersey: The Story of an Island by Paul Darroch nestling amid rich orchards in St Ouen, until it was swept away in a violent storm one night in 1356.

Appearances can deceive. A visitor might fondly imagine that Jersey’s splendid coastline, its stark granite cliffs and sandy beaches, must surely be as old as the hills. Yet our beloved shores are barely a few thousand years old, carved out in the blink of a geological eye. We are perched on a hill-top above the flood. All around us lies the original, drowned world; the hunting trails and barrows of our ancestors that have now been swept away by the waves. During the last Ice Age, the Jersey highlands towered over a vast plain of meandering glacial rivers and rich hunting grounds. When the ice retreated northwards and the meltwaters rose, Jersey became a peninsula, jutting out from the French coast. Some eight thousand years ago, the land bridge to France was finally severed. Jersey became a fully-fledged Island at last. Folk memories of an older world must have lingered on. Consider the curious legend of La Planche, telling of a sixthcentury bishop of Coutances who still crossed a wooden bridge to greet his flock on the Ecréhous. Today, of course, these islets hold just a few scattered huts on rocks, miles from the shore. Another myth tells of the lost manor of La Brecquette,

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The encircling sea would now shape Jersey’s destiny, bringing in successive waves of traders and invaders. The Constable of France, Bertrand Du Guesclin, besieged Gorey Castle and sought to starve it into submission. In 1781, a French mercenary army marched into Royal Square, and was roundly defeated in the Battle of Jersey. Yet the seas also produced rich fruit, as the impressive cod houses built with Newfoundland fishing money testify. Jersey learned to live by its wits, whether through the lucrative trade in woollen ‘jerseys’; or shipbuilding; or the exquisite oyster harvests of Grouville. The Island prospered. Poised on the frontier of clashing kingdoms, Jersey welcomed more than its share of famous visitors. Governor Sir Walter Raleigh presided over the Island from 1600 to 1603; he graciously spared Mont Orgueil from demolition and commissioned a new fortress: Elizabeth Castle. Few would ever forget the summer of 1846, when the young Queen Victoria stepped ashore to an ecstatic welcome. As tourism boomed in the long peace of the nineteenth century, even the revolutionary Karl Marx and his daughter found time to unwind in the refreshing sea air of St Clement. The encircling sea, watched over from the impenetrable heights of Fort Regent, remained a certain and comforting shield. But Jersey’s splendid isolation would end on a single day in the summer of 1912. It had been a rain-lashed and miserable summer; even the bravura performance of Charlie Chaplin at the Opera House in Mumming Birds would not make up for the sodden potato harvest. Yet a historic spectacle was about to unfold. It was August 26th, and the day of the St Malo-Jersey Hydro-Aeroplane races had dawned. The very first aeroplane was about to land in Jersey.

As the first flying-machine came into view over the horizon, the crowds turned delirious. When the aviator Jean Benoist landed his Sanchez-Besa biplane on the sands near the bridge to Elizabeth Castle, he was surrounded by a swarm of onlookers. Some local youths barged forward, oblivious to the potentially lethal rotors, and tried to carve their names into the biplane’s wings. The Centenier struggled to hold the line. Eventually Benoist refuelled, and with some difficulty, took to the air again. Alas, his advantage in the race had been snatched by another competitor, who had landed at Beaumont on an empty stretch of beach. As the planes vanished over the horizon, the strange hysteria passed, and the people of Jersey returned to their farms and their offices, back to their daily lives. Yet nothing would ever be quite the same again; the Island’s centuries-old solitude had finally come to an end on that summer morning. The sea would no longer define its destiny. For better or worse, the twentieth century had arrived. Jersey: The Hidden Histories, by Paul Darroch, which is available throughout Jersey and on Amazon charts a panoramic journey through the Island’s turbulent history.

welcome to

. . . g n i v i L Home g n i v o l e hom

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Spiced Honey

Is the Dulux colour of the year for 2019 HERE'S HOW TO USE IT... Whether spread across rooms or dipped into on borders and accents, Marianne Shillingford talks to Gabrielle Fagan about Dulux's sweet new hue... A sweet, new look is coming to our homes thanks to Dulux, who've revealed Spiced Honey as its Colour of the Year for 2019. An earthy, caramel hue, according to the experts at the paint brand, it's versatile enough to introduce into a wide range of home interiors - because it can be "calming and nourishing" or "stimulating and energising", depending on the palettes and light surrounding it. "Spiced Honey is a warm caramel with notes of amber, that perfectly reflects our new sense of optimism and resilience for 2019," says Marianne Shillingford, Dulux's UK creative director. "While 2018 was seen as unsettled and unpredictable and saw us retreating and hiding behind our sofas, next year is one where we're ready to 'let in the light'," she adds.

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Here, Shillingford shares her guide to using the colour to create successful settings... WHAT IS SPICED HONEY? "Spiced Honey has a raw, natural quality that works like a warm neutral, which makes it so adaptable to pairing with different materials and styles of decoration," she enthuses. "It looks especially good when teamed with whites and off-whites in furniture and furnishings, which gives it a contemporary feel." WHAT CAN IT DO FOR ROOMS? "Its rich caramel tones visually turn up the thermostat a few degrees, and so it's perfect for creating a relaxed, cosy atmosphere in places where we like to think, dream, love and act," Shillingford notes. "Its the colour of warm woods, and while there's something reassuringly familiar about it, which may pay a nod to Seventies retro, this is a new colour with a fresh, modern spin. continues overleaf...

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DECOR TIP: For an energising atmosphere, partner Spiced Honey with richly pigmented shades, including deep forest green, bold teal and intense terracotta red. With wooden furniture and botanical prints, the effect will be a cosy but lively space. WHERE COULD YOU USE IT? "I'm loving the idea of using this colour on a ceiling, possibly in my bedroom. It's such a liberating way of decorating because the ceiling is the most uninterrupted space in a room," says Shillingford. "Focusing the colour overhead allows you to be much more more creative with walls, so you can hang more art and other decoration. Interior designers are starting to call the ceiling the fifth wall!" DECOR TIP: To create a serene space, pair the shade with romantic powder pinks and blues. Plain pale woods, simple hand-thrown vessels and pretty fabrics will add to the contemplative, centred feel.

"Paired with off-whites and a dollop of deepest inky Cobalt Night, Spiced Honey offers a room a fresh contemporary bite, but introduce soft warm greys and muted pinks like Angora Blanket and Soft Stone, and you achieve a look that is as sweet and delicious as honey on hot buttered toast." DECOR TIP: For a sophisticated living area, use the shade as a backdrop and add touches of soft pink, intense burgundy and sophisticated deep blue. Polished woods, mid-century furniture, graphic rugs and textiles will emphasis will enhance this look. HOW CAN THIS SHADE BE USED IN ROOMS? "It's a colour that's happy to play the supporting role rather than being a full immersion shade on all the walls, but it could be a wrap-around colour in a small room where you want an intimate atmosphere. "Otherwise, feature it in bands and blocks, as well as on interior woodwork or for painted furniture," Shillingford adds. "Be guided by when you most use a room, as well as the light levels it enjoys. If it's mostly used during the day and there's little light, its bronze tones will be more pronounced and it will be more dominating. "If, however, your room is north-facing with large windows and ample light, you could decorate a larger area. Light has such a lovely effect on this shade - which is in fact predominantly yellow in its make-up, so in full sunshine it has an invigorating, uplifting feel. As the light fades and it's seen in lamplight, it takes on a gorgeous cocooning, soothing, almost textile finish. "

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WHAT OTHER WAYS ARE THERE TO FEATURE THE SHADE? "Think of this Spiced Honey as flavour for a room. There's no need to overdose on it, just as you wouldn't if it was a spice in cooking. It works equally well in small doses. Using it that way is the ideal starting point if you want to experiment and see if it's to your taste," suggests Shillingford. "Paint a shelf, create a painted border around a door frame, or feature it as a low band of colour at dado height on a wall to ground a space. Alternatively, pick up on it with accessories." DECOR TIP: Be playful with Spiced Honey and enliven it with pops of vivid red and green among pale pinks, blues and crisp greys and whites. Partner with reclaimed, personalised furniture and bold graphic shapes for an on-trend eclectic look.

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3 Stylish home decor trends for Autumn

By Gabrielle Fagan

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HOME LIVING

Designers have revealed their new decor schemes for autumn and winter. Gabrielle Fagan selects her three favourites. Autumn is the time of year when nature changes it's colours, and thanks to the new home collections, it's easy to ring the changes indoors too. Choose from sumptuous florals, a cool Nordic theme that celebrates easy, stylish comfort, or full-fat maximalism, with its emphasis on luxury and individuality. Be inspired - whether it's a total revamp or just a refresh with a few new accessories - so that your rooms are fashionably kitted out for the seasons to come...

MAKE MAGIC WITH MOODY BLOOMS "Escape the everyday and saturate your home with glorious jewel tones this autumn. There are so many ways to use them - in Oriental, deco, and bold floral prints - I love that it all feels a bit fantasy," enthuses Lois Vincent, home designer at House of Fraser. "You can up the glamour quota by mixing in a few gilded accessories; after all, who doesn't need a flamingo candlestick in their life?" DECOR TIP: Rich plum and berry shades are the perfect autumnal palette for a cosy feel. If you don't want to go full-on floral, choose dusky pink and warm neutrals for a backdrop and then layer up with petal-rich accessories, from throws to bed linen.

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CONJURE CALM CHIC SPACES

DECORATE TO THE MAX

"Simple, minimal and layered - soft crafted neutrals and materials are set against stripped back rustic woods for this calm, tranquil look," says Karen Thomas, head of design for Home at Marks & Spencer.

"We expect maximalism to be one of the breakthrough looks for autumn and winter, and we're already seeing people investing in bold, bright pieces for their homes," says Fionnuala Johnston, senior designer at John Lewis.

"This palette of 'Calming Neutrals' is inspired by the change in seasons, and evokes a restful and relaxing feel for the home. As we move into autumn, we celebrate the urge to nest and stay indoors.

"Maximalism is not necessarily about overcrowding a space, but choosing to be bold by showcasing your own unique style in a creative way.

"Layer soft knits and textures for a casual lived-in feel, and use clean lines and smooth surfaces of cool marble and craft glazes to accessorise your living space." DECOR TIP: If you're reworking your entire living space, keep to a palette of pale grey, wood and white for walls, floor and furniture. Declutter to create a pared-back base, and if you want to warm the scheme, add accents of yellow or green in accessories or plants.

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"Carefully considered mixing and matching of colours, prints and textures is key to achieving the look, and it's the perfect opportunity to layer designs and blend references. "A good example would be combining a contemporary drinks trolley with tropical, vintage wallpaper, for a refined glamour that celebrates old and new style." DECOR TIP: Floor-to-ceiling curtains and reflective surfaces, such as mirrored glass and metalllics, contribute to the luxe look and create an atmosphere of elegance. A successful home will reflect your personality and taste and contain pieces that make you smile - don't be afraid to experiment.

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6 HOME IMPROVEMENTS THAT WILL ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY ACCORDING TO A PROFESSIONAL Prefer to stay put and renovate than move? Lisa Salmon seeks some expert tips for the projects that promise the best returns. Increasing numbers of homeowners are avoiding the expense plus the physical and emotional upheaval - of moving house, by staying put and renovating instead. In fact, the number of people choosing to do this has risen fivefold since 2013, according to a recent report by Hiscox Insurance - increasing from 3% of households to 15%, representing more than four million homes in the UK. Supporting the notion that we're becoming a nation of homeimprovers, figures from Halifax show that planning applications have risen by a quarter over the last five years. Meanwhile, Hiscox found the average budget for home renovations was around £16,100 for each project, although 18% of the householders surveyed expected to spend more than £25,000. So what improvements are they making? According to the research, homeowners are most likely to either renovate a

CONSERVATORIES The simplest home addition is a conservatory, which Virgin Money research says can raise the value of your home by as much as 15% if it's included as part of an extension, or by 5% if it's just a simple conservatory. Chawla says choosing the right materials can help conservatories blend well with modern and period properties. "The key is to use materials other than the commonly seen white UPVC," he says. "A muted, more sophisticated palette of taupe and grey-painted wooden frames camouflages itself in a natural setting, and the reflective properties of glass help it blend into the outside space more easily."

bathroom or add a new one, followed by kitchen improvements, installing a new boiler or central heating system, or creating more living space. However, not every home-improvement project will automatically add value to a property. "Cheap is cheap - nothing kills the value of a property more than doing cheap work in it. Estate agents have told me they've seen sellers with tears in their eyes, when they find out that construction work worth thousands of pounds hasn't added a single penny to their home," says Ash Chawla, chief executive of the design/build company Duke of Design (dukeofdesign.co.uk). "We live in a world which has become very aware and knowledgeable. There are no shortcuts to creating value to your home." So, what does Duke of Design recommend? Here are six home improvements Chawla says could be a wise investment...

EXTENSIONS Estate agents surveyed by Hiscox believe the best way of spending money on your home is by having an extension built, saying the addition of a new bedroom could boost the average home's value by 11.2%. They reckon a new kitchen, meanwhile, will typically increase a home's value by 5.5% (or £12,400 based on an average UK house price of £226,071), although 28% think a new kitchen can lift a home's value by as much as 10%. A single storey extension can be built in as little as three weeks once planning permission is granted, says Chawla, who suggests an average sized £30,000 single-storey rear kitchen extension on a £500,000 home can lead to a profit of £30,000-£35,000. "Aside from a rise in property value, you also benefit from a stunning home environment with added usable space," Chawla adds.

REMODELLING Remodelling an existing kitchen - by adding high quality units and flooring, purpose lighting and redecorating - could increase a property's value by as much as 4%, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors - although Chawla warns that expensive purchases, such as kitchen units and flooring, should be kept in proportion to the value of the property. "The most successful kitchen extensions consider the whole home," he explains.

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HOME LIVING

"By removing internal walls, you can connect the kitchen to the dining room, creating a functional space for entertaining."

conversions commonly add up to 8-10% to your property value, says Chawla, particularly in areas where parking is a premium.

Alternatively, you may also choose to link the kitchen to the garden by using large windows or patio doors.

LOFT AND BASEMENT CONVERSIONS The Hiscox report says loft extensions are the most popular planning request, and Chawla says loft conversions are usually less troublesome than basement conversions. They don't always require planning permission, although they do need to meet building regulations to be classed as a room. The Nationwide Building Society says the average cost to convert an attic is around £20,000, which rises to approximately £35,000-¬£45,000 if you're creating a dormer loft with double bedroom and bathroom.

GARDEN LANDSCAPING "Often overlooked, the garden can become the hub of home life and can work seamlessly with your home, as if brick and foliage were the most natural partners in the world," says Chawla.

For family-sized homes, ensure the outdoor space is suitable for the growing needs of a family with low-maintenance planting and landscaping, while a small courtyard garden at a city apartment may appeal to younger working couples. The cost of landscaping a garden can be as little as £2,000, but Chawla says spending a little more can lead to a potential return of £40,000 on a £500,000 house.

PARKING Most towns and cities have a parking problem, Chawla points out. "By providing viable parking facilities, you can increase your property price dramatically," he promises.

You could either convert land at the front or side of your property to add a driveway or parking space, or add a garage - possibly by converting an existing outside building, if there's suitable access, or by building a garage extension. Full garage

Just boarding out the loft for storage is unlikely to make much impact on the price of your property, and Chawla stresses: "If financial gain is your goal, converting the loft into a usable room is the way to go. The benefits of adding an additional bedroom to your property can be huge - loft conversions can add as much as £65,000£75,000 to your property value." An alternative is to add a basement conversion if space allows, but Chawla says this is a complicated procedure and potential problems, such as water ingress and foundation issues, can be major concerns.

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PUT ANOTHER LOG ON DIY guru Julia Gray advises how to choose energy efficient wood burners With winter just around the corner you may be inspired to do something about warming up before your teeth start to chatter. How about investing in a natural fire? The problem with open fires is that they’re not very energy efficient, at only around 20%. The majority of wood-burning stoves, on the other hand, are 70 to 90% efficient, so you get all the benefits of a real fire without most of your money going up in smoke. You may be surprised to learn that prices for wood burners start at less than £200 and, while you can pay a lot more for one that has more features, amazing looks or a high output, cheap and cheerful models make wood burners an option if you’re on a budget. That said, remember to add on the cost of the accessories, installation and any associated building working. The good news is that your stove should start saving you money straight away. The more powerful it is, and the smaller and better insulated your home, the more money you’re likely to save, especially if your house has an open-plan layout or you keep the internal doors open, so the stove does more than just heat the room it’s in. Wood burners chuck out heat, and you should need the heating on less when it’s lit. Wood (as long as it’s sustainably sourced) is, of course, a more environmentally friendly fuel than oil or gas - and subject to fewer price rises. Freshly-cut wood contains up to 90% water, so you have to dry it out (season it) before you can burn it. This can take as long as three years. 34 | www.life-mags.com

You can buy wood that’s already seasoned, or you can season it yourself, using a log store. The important thing is to allow air to circulate all around the logs to dry them out. And if you don’t want to only burn wood, you don’t have to - with a multi-fuel stove, you can also burn coal, smokeless fuel, peat and turf (depending on any smoke-control restrictions in your area). The installation of a wood-burning stove must comply with building regulations. Rather than involving your local council’s building control department (which can check and sign off the work) or an improved inspector (who does the same job but is employed by a private company), it’s often easier to use a qualified fitter. HETAS-registered installers deal with wood, solid-fuel and biomass domestic heating appliances and can self-certify that their work complies with building regulations, so it’s safe and legal. Another consideration is whether the chimney needs to be lined before the stove is installed. Homes dating from the mid-Sixties onwards will have had a concrete or clay chimney liner fitted when they were built, but older properties won’t necessarily have a liner - your installer will be able to check for you. There are lots of benefits to having a chimney lined, including better energy efficiency - and who doesn’t want that?

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Looking for kitchen style inspiration? DESIGNERS REVEAL TOP TRENDS FOR 2019 AND HOW TO WORK THEM Natural grains, stone and bolder colour choices will all star in kitchens next year. Gabrielle Fagan finds out how to create a cutting-edge theme

"There's also a real trend for concealment, where a run of fittedcupboards can mask machines and utility areas and allow the area to be an uncluttered zone, perfect for entertaining."

It's the heart of any home - especially now that it's where many of us congregate not only to eat but also to catch up and socialise which is why choosing the right kitchen style is so important.

Here are three more winning recipes for gourmet kitchen style...

So what's on the menu for kitchen trends in 2019? "Industrial style is very much in vogue and still will be next year," predicts Rachael Burgess, creative director at Contour Kitchens, based in Cheltenham (contourkitchens.co.uk). "One of our most popular finishes is concrete, as it offers a cool, grey colour palette along with a textured finish. We're going to pair this with steel doors in our new collection next year. "The contrast of light and dark is still a classic combination in interior design," Burgess adds. "A new colour for 2019 is olive grey, a mixed green and grey hue, which combines well with North American hardwood, Robinia. Veined worktops - quartz, composite and Corian, which is non-porous and stain-resistant are leading the field in popularity.

MAKE IT BOLD, OPEN AND INTERESTING... "Greys and darker blue shades are still a very popular choice when planning the colour scheme for a more modern-looking kitchen and work brilliantly, especially when combined with a clean, contemporary work surface," says Melissa Klink, head of design at Harvey Jones (harveyjones.com). "That being said, we've also seen a rise in homeowners who want a bolder focal point in their design. Choosing to apply a more vibrant colour to their kitchen, whether a brightly coloured island, accessories such as stools or appliances, or painted cabinetry, is a fantastic way to make a statement. continues overleaf...

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reflecting a contemporary twist on classic design." DECOR TIP: Shimmer and sheen are all that's needed for a luxe look. Metal finishes, such as bronze, steel and copper, are making their mark on everything from furniture and tiles to accessories, and can also soften the look of an edgier industrial style space. SHINE A LIGHT "A lighter colour palette works well in most kitchens, because a variety of surfaces and textures reflect light and brighten it, giving the illusion of more space," says Fred Horlock, design manager at Neptune (neptune.com). "A blend of two, three at most, complementary light shades creates a calm and sophisticated space. Our colours, pale green Sage, subtle Old Rose and taupe Driftwood, work well individually or combined. "Generally, islands are an essential ingredient in a kitchen because they act as a sociable hub and provide a perfect place for preparation," Horlock adds. "We can configure ours in a variety of ways, so they can include a sink, hob, an integrated fridge or chopping board cabinet, or be used purely for storage. "Interesting textures are a growing trend and this can be achieved with work surfaces in sandblasted timber, polished concrete, or even with an unpolished natural stone slab," she adds. "Open-plan is still by far the most popular choice for lay-out, as people want to blend or extend the kitchen into the main living space, so it's a social area during everyday family use and an entertaining zone when needed." DECOR TIP: Kitchens are the perfect area for experimenting with colour. When deciding on a shade for cabinetry, consider your space first. Bolder, darker colours work particularly well in large, well-lit areas, while vibrant shades for accessories, such as lighting and kitchen gadgets, can be sufficient to lift a more enclosed space. MAX OUT ON MATERIALS "Maximilism no longer excludes the kitchen when redecorating the home, and increasingly people are looking for a kitchen that has impact," says Nick Bell, sales and design director at Mark Wilkinson Furniture (mwf.com). "Contrasting materials and bold shades have a strong presence in contemporary kitchen design. A kitchen island is the perfect place to be brave with a colour or finish and to embellish with luxury materials. "We'll see a trend in kitchens gravitating towards more natural colours, textures and materials, such as bronze, burnt brass and timber. Next year, colours will begin to warm and soften," he adds, "and contrasting patterns and textures will be more prevalent,

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"Seating's always desirable and, where possible, we'll also include a wine rack, so it's the ideal spot to unwind and relax with friends." DECOR TIP: While whitewashed woods are in tune with the enduringly fashionable Scandi style, there's a growing trend for showcasing the grain of different woods, which brings drama and character to a scheme. Exposed timber can add warmth to a pale scheme, contrast well with smooth surfaces, and is a natural balance for painted cabinetry.

HOME LIVING

Well and truly lit... 7 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CONSIDERING NEW LIGHT FITTINGS FOR YOUR HOME

Wading around in the dark over lighting options? Abi Jackson asks some industry pros for their top tips on honing down the options. Getting the lighting right in your home is one of the most important elements, in terms of style, ambience and functionality. As Clare Griffin, lighting buyer for Habitat (habitat.co.uk), puts it: "Lighting can completely change the look and feel of interiors, so it should always be properly considered when you're putting together a room design." It's easy to think lighting is all about practicality, but it goes far beyond that - particularly for those looking to make a real statement in their homes. "Gone are the days when lighting was seen as just a means of seeing in the dark. Customers are now far more inclined to see lighting as the starting point for a design scheme and will spend accordingly," agrees Mark Holloway, director at specialists Holloways of Ludlow (hollowaysofludlow.com). "Choosing a light has never been so exciting," he adds. "Almost daily, exciting and innovative lights are launched, showcasing both design talent and new materials and technology." But where to start, and what if you're a renter or on a budget, or just not entirely sure which style to go for? Here, experts outline some key questions to get you going...

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1. HOW WILL YOU BE USING THE SPACE? "The most important question to start with, is what are you trying to achieve within the space? If you want a cosy, relaxing environment for a lounge or bedroom, then dimmer switches are key, combined with warm white light bulbs and diffused lighting, such as opal glass globes and lamp shades that soften light, and aren't as harsh to the eye," says Griffin. "In contrast, for rooms that are working environments, like the kitchen, office or bathroom, then bright white light bulbs are needed." "It's very important to be crystal clear what function a particular light fitting will perform," echoes Holloway. "For illuminating an entire space, 'architectural' lighting is often best. This includes downlighting, spotlights, track systems and atmospheric lighting. For more focused illumination, task lighting is required - lighting used to help with specific activities in the home, such as reading, cooking and office work."

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2. CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET - AS THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL COSTS Griffin says your budget should be a main starting point, as some lighting options can have extra costs. "Anything involving an electrician is going to require more expense, so you need to consider what your electrical options are within the space," she notes. "Where are the plug sockets located? Could you create a lighting scheme using just plug-in lamps, or using easy-fit shades on existing light fittings?

5. DO YOU WANT TO MAKE A STATEMENT? If you want to make a statement - go for it. "Go large! You really can go bigger than you think," says Holloway. "The best lighting designs will work in any context. A stunning contemporary pendant, such as a hand-blown glass pendant from Bocci, will work in almost any interior scheme - traditional or modern." The same goes for colour as well as size, Holloway adds: "After a number of years in the wilderness, colour is back. Be bold and let your lighting bring some colour and fun into your home." 6. HOW CAN YOU STILL MAKE AN IMPACT ON A BUDGET? Don't have a big budget to play with but want to create some wow factor? Be creative. "A lampshade with a pop of colour is a good way to make a statement - our French velvet and drum silk ranges do this well," says Griffin. "But the best way to make a statement on a budget, or if you are a renter, is through an easy-fit shade.

3. WHAT DECOR VIBE ARE YOU GOING FOR? "In terms of look, lighting can be used to enhance the decor scheme of a room. If you want a glamorous, luxe feel, then add a metallic contemporary chandelier. If you want a mid-century vibe, add a walnut floor lamp with a velvet shade," suggests Griffin. 4. HOW COULD WELL-POSITIONED LIGHTING ENHANCE THE ROOM'S DIMENSIONS? "Lighting can also change the perceived size of the room. Add up-and-down wall lights to a room with a low ceiling to give an illusion of height, or use a floor lamp to light dark corners to create the illusion of more space in the room," says Griffin. "For space with very high ceilings, add a large dramatic pendant to fill the space and bring the ceiling height down a little." Lisa Broad, head of buying at Harveys (harveysfurniture.co.uk), suggests: "Lighting is the key to making your home cosy. In winter, ensuring your living space is full of soft lighting can add a seasonal ambience to your living space. Place lamps in front of mirrors to instantly double the amount of light in your room."

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These are designed to look like pendants but do not require an electrician, as they attach onto your light fitting like a lampshade. This means different materials, like glass, metal, wood and rattans can be brought into the home without rewiring, and also means more decorative bulbs can be used to make a real statement. Our bestselling easy-fits include Elmley, Margate, Seasalter and Niquita." 7. LAST BUT NOT LEAST, DO YOU LOVE IT? Find making decisions tricky? That's natural, but at the end of the day, don't be swayed too much by trends if it's really not 'you'. "Ultimately, I always encourage my clients to be confident and choose lighting that they love and designs that make them smile," says Holloway.

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www.viberts.com +44 (0) 1534 888 666 property@viberts.com Viberts House, Don Street, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8ZQ

OCTOBER ISSUE | 41

ADVERTORIAL

Renewable heating that cuts carbon - and your energy bill As the days get shorter and temperatures fall, the one thing guaranteed to increase is your energy bill. The price of energy can bite just as hard as Jack Frost and cost can suddenly become a bigger concern than carbon. But if you want to go greener and cut your energy bills, there is no better solution than a heat pump, or hybrid heat pump for those concerned about relying entirely on a renewable energy source for heating their homes in the depths of winter. In Jersey, around a third of the electricity you use in your home is supplied by the hydro power plant connected to the La Rance Tidal Barrage in France. But renewable heating via a heat pump will not only slash your carbon footprint, especially if you currently use a gas or oil powered system, it will also save you money in the longer term because heat pumps can produce up to four times the heat as would the units of electricity used to power them. When correctly installed, air source heat pumps are an incredibly efficient way to meet your home heating and hot water needs because they convert and use the latent heat that naturally occurs in the air, increasing its temperature sufficiently to heat your home and hot water. But if you have reservations about relying totally on a renewable energy source to heat your home or you are in distressed purchase situation, the solution could be a hybrid heat pump that works in tandem with a traditional electric, oil or gas boiler. Vaillant’s aroTHERM and flexoTHERM are traditional air-to-water heat pumps but the aroTHERM hybrid is a smart heating system that switches between renewable technology and a traditional boiler to maximise efficiency and lower running costs. Similarly, the Grant VortexAir brings together a VortexBlue oil boiler with an Aerona³ air source heat pump to

function as one unit, automatically monitoring whether it is more effective to provide heat by the boiler or the heat pump and seamlessly switching to the most suitable method of heating and thus maximising the renewable heat generated. Another advantage of a hybrid system is that if your oil or gas boiler breaks down and needs replacing fast you can restore heat quickly by replacing the boiler immediately and fitting the heat pump later to complete the hybrid system. While heat pumps have traditionally been used as whole-house heating and hot water solutions, market leading heating specialists Dimplex, has produced the Edel unvented hot water cylinder that can heat your water to 60ºC on fresh air – literally – without using the immersion. Built into the top of the tank, the miniature heat pump works exactly like its larger whole-house-heating counterpart. The Edel uses a third of the energy of a direct cylinder. It comes in 200-litre and 270-litre storage capacity, is easy to install and quiet in operation. So if you need to replace your water cylinder, whatever heating system you have, think twice. You could clean up your carbon emissions and clean up some savings with an electric heat pump water cylinder. All heat pumps are ideally suited to Jersey Electricity’s 24-hour uninterrupted heating tariff Economy 20 Plus. E20+ provides 20 hours of discounted electricity at 10.4p a unit (effectively giving you heat from the 300% efficient heat pump for around 3.5pence per kWh) for space and water heating with four peak hours charged at the general rate of 14.8p. For more information, come and see the entire latest low carbon home heating technologies at Smarter Living, situated inside the Powerhouse, and speak to one of Jersey Electricity’s Home Heating Advisers.

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Co Grounds, Hair amd Sh pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wool... HERE'S HOW TO BOOST YOUR GARDEN SOIL FOR FREE THIS AUTUMN

Gardening YouTuber Huw Richards reveals 8 unusual ways to enrich your soil on a budget. Hannah Stephenson reports... Autumn is the time when gardeners dig compost into their beds because the ground is still warm enough to work and their soil will be enriched over winter. Online horticultural expert Huw Richards, who has one of the biggest gardening channels on YouTube and is working in partnership with Dobbies Garden Centres, says adding unusual ingredients including sheep's fleece, coffee grounds, seaweed and hair to the mix can boost your soil. These are some of his favourite soil-enriching additions.

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1. HAIR Visit a hair salon to get a bag of hair (but not dyed or bleached), which contains nitrogen. Give it a year to mature and then mix it into the compost with other materials. 2. SPENT HOPS If you have any local breweries, visit one to pick up some spent hops, which have been soaked for a long time. They are high in nitrogen.

3. SHREDDED PAPER If you know of an office which shreds paper, pick some up to add to the mix. It contains carbon and also will help the soil retain moisture. And don't worry about the ink, which often contains micro-nutrients. However, don't use paper which has a gloss finish or is heavily inked, as this may contain toxins.

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4. COFFEE GROUNDS Visit your local coffee shop for spent coffee grounds. While fresh coffee grounds are acidic, used grounds are neutral. They contain nitrogen and have a pH of around 6.5-7, which is ideal for many plants. Spread handfuls around your plants like a mulch but avoid using grounds on soil around acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas and blueberries. 5. CRUSHED EGGSHELLS If you crush up eggshells to add to your compost, they provide a slow release of calcium, which is particularly beneficial when growing produce such as tomatoes.

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6. SEAWEED Seaweed contains all the main elements to boost soil including nitrogen, potassium, phosphate, magnesium, iodine and calcium. If you live in a coastal area, storms will wash up mounds of brown, red and green seaweed. Collect a variety if you can as they have different nutrient levels. You can chop up it up and use it sparingly. Put it directly on to beds but don't place it in planting holes or directly on to plants as it is salty. However, the autumn rains should wash the excess salt away. 7. WOOD ASH Don't use ash from a barbecue if you are using charcoal, but wood ash from hard woods is fine to add to compost. It tends to be a bit more acidic and is good for plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias.

8. SHEEP'S FLEECE Lay sheep's wool down around perennial plants and add it to the compost bin. It contains nitrogen and, as an added bonus, also deters slugs. If you are clearing ground in the autumn, lay down cardboard over the top of the ground you've dug, followed by a layer of sheep's wool, and finish it with compost or well-rotted manure. Sheep's wool will biodegrade over time and will retain moisture.

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S SMAR RTER LIVING L G SMARTER SMARTER S SMAR TER TE TECH CH I SMARTER SMAR TER HEA HEATING TING G I SMAR SMARTER TER HO HOMES MES Welcome W e elcome tto o a whole n new ew w world orld o off elec electric tric lliving. iving. W Welcome elcome tto o Sma Smarter arter L Living exciting new ne ew home technology technology and and energy energy centre centre se ssett in – the exciting Electricity’s Powerhouse. Smarter brings tthe he heart heart of of Jersey Jersey E lectricity’s P owerhou use. Sma rter Living br rings you and y ou up up close a nd personal personal with the latest latest gadgets gadge g ts for for the connected conne ected h home, well as the most most energy energy efficient efficien nt heating systems systems on n the as well ma rket to to make make your your home future-ready. futu u re-ready. market

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RECIPE

t h ig N e r ﬁ n o B r o f s e ip c e R Bonfire night celebrations are the perfect excuse to enjoy some beautiful autumnal food. Our selection of delicious recipes will make sure that the fireworks won’t be the only thing to go off with a bang!

ONE POT STOVETOP MAC & CHEESE WITH SHALLOTS AND CHILLI This creamy stovetop mac and cheese is a real indulgence you can whip up quickly and enjoy by itself or with a simple salad. A simple one-pot midweek meal that the whole family will enjoy. Serves: 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 25-30 minutes You’ll need: 50g butter 200g shallots, finely chopped 1-3 red chillies, chopped (to taste) 1 tbsp plain flour 400g macaroni 1 litre milk 250ml water (plus a little extra if necessary) salt and freshly ground black pepper 1-2 tsp dijon mustard (optional) 250-300g extra mature cheddar (to taste), plus extra to serve What to do: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over a low heat then add the shallots, cooking very gently for about 15 minutes until really soft but not coloured. Add the chilli and stir, cooking another minute. Stir through the flour, blending it well into the buttery shallots. Tip in the macaroni and stir well then pour in the milk and water. Season well with salt and pepper and stir through the mustard if you are using. Bring up to the boil then reduce the heat to a steady simmer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring often (just like making a risotto) until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickened. It will still be a little liquid at this stage but will thicken with resting. If it seems a little dry add a splash of extra water. Turn off the heat and allow the macaroni to rest and cool for 5 minutes. Scatter over the cheese, stirring until its melted and serve immediately. Resting the pasta before stirring through the cheese is an important step so don’t be tempted to skip it. If you add cheese to the too hot sauce you run the risk of it turning a little granular, which won’t effect the taste of you mac and cheese just the texture. Credit: www.ukshallot.com

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ASPARAGUS, RICOTTA & PANCETTA PIZZA I do like a telly night every now & again so here is asparagus for that occasion. Serves: 4 Preparation time: 25 minutes plus 60 minutes proving Cooking time: 15 minutes You’ll need: for the dough 125ml tepid water ½ teaspoon caster sugar 4g easy blend dried yeast 150g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting ½ heaped teaspoon flaked sea salt ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil for greasing

for the topping 1 small clove of garlic 150ml tinned chopped tomatoes ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp sugar 100g ricotta A bundle of asparagus, trimmed and sliced ½ bunch of fresh oregano leaves a small handful of pecorino cheese olive oil for drizzling What to do: To make the dough, pour the water into a large bowl and gently stir in the sugar and yeast. Put aside for around 10 minutes until the water has a thick beige foam floating on top. Add half the flour and stir gently with a wooden spoon. Don’t worry about clumps in the flour, as these will soon disappear. Gradually add half the remaining flour and continue stirring. Once it’s all incorporated, add the remaining flour and the salt, crushing it between your fingers. Mix with clean hands. As soon as the dough forms a soft, spongy ball, turn it out on to a floured surface and knead for 8 minutes. Add a little more flour if it’s too wet. By this time the dough should be smooth, elastic and no longer sticking to your hands. Put the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover loosely with oiled clingfilm and leave to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, 45–60 minutes. Halfway through the rising time preheat the oven to 240°C/475°F/Gas 9. Make the topping while the dough rests and rises in the bowl. Place the asparagus in a little olive oil & salt until well-greased. In a pan gently heat the oil with the garlic and cook it gently for 2 minutes or so, it must not fry and colour. Add the chopped tomatoes and a good amount of salt and half a teaspoon of white sugar. Simmer briskly for 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly, getting rid of any obviously watery element. Let the sauce cool. When the dough has risen turn it out on to a lightly floured surface and knock back with your fists. Stretch, or flatten the dough with a rolling pin, until about the thickness of a £1 coin. Place each pizza base on a lightly floured baking sheet or tray and brush on top with a little more oil. When ready to assemble, spread the sauce half over each pizza base leaving a clean and narrow margin around the edge. Spread the ricotta over the tomato sauce, scatter over the asparagus spears, then add a grind of black pepper and scatter fresh oregano leaves. Scatter over the pecorino all over the top of the pizzas and finally dribble a generous amount of olive oil over the whole pizza, slide into the oven and cook for 12-15 minutes, the base should be very crispy. Serve immediately. Credit: enjoyasparagus.com

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TRAVEL

Firenze – Sei Fantastico! by Rebecca Underwood

Ponte Vecchio - credits Fototeca ENIT and photographer Vito Arcomano Florence, the capital of the Italian province of Tuscany, was established by Julius Caesar in 59BC as a settlement for veteran soldiers. This much celebrated city, considered to be the birthplace of the Renaissance, attracts millions of visitors, keen to admire its treasures and to explore the historic centre of the city, which was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.

Duomo - credits Fototeca ENIT and photographer Paola Ghirotti Duomo - credits Fototeca ENIT and photographer Vito Arcomano

Crammed with architectural gems and astonishing masterpieces, this small city, located on the banks of the Arno River, features stunning palaces, dating back to the 15th century, beautiful and ornate churches, and a wide choice of museums exhibiting outstanding examples of undisputed talent. The city’s most popular attractions are located on Piazza del Duomo and include the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, which is known as the Duomo. Completed in 1436, its magnificent dome, which was built by Brunelleschi, without scaffolding, remains the largest brick and mortar built dome in the world. Hardy souls may choose to climb the 463 interior steps to view the inner case which provides a platform for the timbers supporting the outer shell. The Baptistry, opposite the cathedral, was constructed between 1059 and 1128 in the

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Florentine Romanesque style and Lorenzo Ghiberti’s fabulous bronze doors, with relief sculptures, demonstrate the artistic flair that led to the Renaissance. Adjacent to both the Duomo and the Baptistry is the free standing campanile, designed by Giotto. The Gothic tower, which soars up to 85 metres, features elaborate sculptural decorations and marble facings. During the 15th century, Florence was home to the influential Medici family, headed by Cosimo di Giovanni de’ Medici, a prominent banker and politician and the first member of the family to serve as a de facto ruler. Cosimo was noted for his patronage of culture and the arts and on his death, his son, Piero, followed by his son, Lorenzo, continued to support talents including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli. To learn more about the Medici’s, visit San Lorenzo, the family’s parish church. The church was rebuilt by Brunelleschi in 1419 in the Renaissance Classical style. In 1520 Michelangelo began work on the Medici tombs and his enormous funerary figures are among his finest works. Michelangelo also designed the Biblioteca Mediceo-Laruenziana to house the family’s vast manuscript collection and the Mannerist peitra serena sandstone staircase is one of his most innovative designs.

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Please contact Kris Watts who will be happy to discuss your requirements Tel: 07797 826841 Email: wattscookingjersey@gmail.com www.wattscooking.co.uk wattscookingjersey

TRAVEL

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Il Palagio Restaurant

Artemisia To view more treasures, I wandered around the Uffizi gallery, on the Piazzale degli Uffizi. Florence’s most popular art museum contains the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, bequeathed in 1737 by Anna Maria Lodovica, the last of the Medici family. A labyrinth of rooms displays works by Caravaggio, Raffaello, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Rembrandt and Rubens. Another outstanding masterpiece is housed in the Galleria dell’ Accademia on via Ricasoli. Michelangelo’s colossal Carrara marble sculpture of David, which stands at 17 feet was created between 1501 and 1504. This dazzling piece established Michelangelo’s status as a sculptor of extraordinary talent at the age of 29. All this exploration takes its toll on the feet and visitors eager to take a break and in search of a true Tuscan dining experience should make haste for the Cibrèo restaurant, a family business, founded in 1979, which is located on Via Andrea del Verrocchio. I dined ‘al fresco’, and sampled the succulent Coniglio Arrosto Farcito (roasted rabbit, deboned, rolled with ground beef, sausage and prosciutto and served with caramelized onions) and the flavours, enhanced by a glass of Balze d’Istrice 2013, were simply sublime. For those considering where to stay, location is paramount, and Florence provides an extensive choice of luxurious hotels all over the city. However, consider the advantages that renting an apartment offers; the freedom to live without restriction, and to truly relax and feel ‘at home’. I stayed in a spacious two bedroom / two bathroom apartment (measuring 80m2), and located right on the Piazza del Duomo opposite the main entrance to the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral. Surprisingly peaceful, and airy and cool, the Artemis apartment is ideal for guests who wish to avoid hotel meal time restrictions and with a huge kitchen with every utensil to hand; it’s easy to whip up a late breakfast. Furnished in a contemporary style, the lounge features comfy sofas, an enormous dining table with a wonderful view of the cathedral through the shuttered windows and the master bedroom offers a stylish and comfortable four poster bed. In this prime spot there are restaurants and cafés galore but for a very special dining experience Il Pallagio, a Michelin starred restaurant within the Four Seasons Hotel on Borgo Pinti, is perfect. Glittering chandeliers, tables swathed in crisp, white linens, windows dressed with rich elaborate fabrics, tapestries and frescos adorning the walls, this is indeed an exceptional venue. I sampled the chef’s delicious signature dish, Cacio e Pepe Cavatelli: pasta with marinated red prawns and baby squid, 52 | www.life-mags.com

and accompanied by a sparkling glass of Cuvée Louise 2004, and all served with the utmost savoir faire, it was simply divine. Appetite sated, I embarked on a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Arno River and there, spanning the river, the Ponte Vecchio, came into view, and the words of Charles Dickens came to mind….. ‘Among the four old bridges that span the river, the Ponte Vecchio, that bridge which is covered with the shops of jewelers and goldsmiths, is a most enchanting feature in the scene. The space of one house, in the centre, being left open, the view beyond, is shown as in a frame; and that precious glimpse of sky, and water, and rich buildings, shining so quietly among the huddled roofs and gables on the bridge, is exquisite’. And mesmerised by the view and contemplating on my visit there was only one appropriate response ‘Ferenze, Sei Fantastico!’ ‘Top tip’ – accommodation For more information on the featured apartment visit: https://halldis.com/florence-apartments/apartment/artemisia-woi ‘Top tip’- flights Take advantage of a punctual and reliable service from either London Heathrow or Gatwick direct to Florence. And for friendly staff, easy check-in procedures and very competitive rates visit britishairways.com ‘Top tip’ - Florence tours Isango.com is a specialist retailer of tours, experiences and attraction tickets and offers a reliable service with competitive rates for over 300 destinations including Florence. For more information visit localflorencetours.com ‘Top tip’ - European train and coach travel Download the Trainline Europe app to effortlessly discover and book the best prices on train and coach travel across 36 European countries. ‘Top tip’ - keeping in touch on the move RCA by Venturer has introduced a tablet and laptop, all in one! Maven 11 Pro with detachable keyboard is now available at leading retailers including Amazon and Currys. Features include a built-in 32GB internal memory and a re-chargeable battery (up to 6 hours). For more information visit venturer.com ‘Top tip’ - ground transfers Book private transfers from and to Florence airport /railway station and take advantage of a reliable and punctual, first class service. Prices are all-inclusive and guaranteed in advance, so you can sit back and relax upon arrival. Visit blacklane.com

BRECQHOU

Brecqhou and its Onions Ask anybody what they know about Sark and the first thing they will say will undoubtedly be the absence of cars. The second thing will probably be Sir Fred and Sir David Barclay, owners of the tiny neighbouring island of Brecqhou on which they have built a home. Their troubled relationship with the Sarkese people has been well documented over the years and their attempt to protect their privacy on Brecqhou has, as a result, often been viewed with suspicion. A little while ago, along with other paying guests of one of their Sark hotels, we were offered the opportunity to visit Brecqhou as their guests. Politics aside, we jumped at this chance and on a blustery July morning we assembled at the top of Harbour Hill in Sark with a few other families to be briefed by a man who introduced himself as our Brecqhou Liaison Officer. Each of us was offered a small bottle of water for the journey and we were reminded that we were not permitted to take any photographs whatsoever of Fort Brecqhou, a huge gothic looking residence, now home of the Barclays. "They are very private people" we were told "and it's their home after all". A few of the men in our group acknowledged this statement with a respectful nod. All of us had been asked to sign written agreements not to any take photographs of the house itself and these had been submitted to the Brecqhou authorities for vetting, twenty four hours in advance of our visit. This latest reminder, although delivered lightheartedly, left us in no doubt that the brothers were indeed serious about their privacy. Our travelling companions for the morning were a mixed bunch of people and I guessed they were as curious as us (my other half would say nosey) to make the trip. There was a family which I recognised from the hotel pool the day before, whose children were being ferried frantically to the toilets at the Mermaid Tavern. We were all forewarned that any requirement to spend a penny once we had landed on Brecqhou would warrant a radio call to another member of staff who would arrive by golf buggy to whisk

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By Caroline Bougeard

the offending individual away to a far flung WC on the island. As we boarded the tractor trailer to take us down the dusty hill, I think we were all a bit worried about the toilet arrangements. Down at the harbour a sturdy launch, The Brecqhou Lass, pulled up against the wall. It was high tide and the boat rose and fell precariously in the swell as the crew held the ropes tight for us to step on board. They were dressed smartly in matching navy sweaters bearing the embroidered logo of Brecqhou Island and we were instructed politely in the art of putting on a life jacket. The diesel engines revved noisily as we backed slowly out of the harbour. Pitching and rolling the Captain pulled us firmly on course and the motion soon settled down. We edged carefully around the cliffs of Sark with the gulls circling and crying out above our heads. It was a true Chanel Island scene which couldn't have changed much for centuries. After ten minutes or so the ramparts of Fort Brecqhou appeared on the horizon like a medieval fortress in a Hollywood movie. It was a surreal sight, even from a distance. We edged cautiously into the shelter of Brecqhou's small harbour and started to disembark beneath a large sign on the jetty stating that it was a private island and that no boarding was allowed. I tried to put out of my mind the BBC journalist John Sweeney who was certainly not a welcome guest when he tried to board the island in 1995 to interview the brothers and ended up being sued for breach of privacy. "Welcome to Brecqhou - sorry about the weather" chirped Carl, one of the island's staff, who was waiting to greet us. Discarding the life jackets, we followed him up a steep path the light rain which had just started. "I'm afraid this is the boring part of the tour really, not much to see until we get to the top." As we climbed the hill we talked about everything except the Barclay brothers -the weather, the wildlife, the rough seas and how the island was occasionally cut off during the winter months in storms. By the time we reached the top and eventually stopped to take in the first views of "the Castle" somebody at the back was

BRECQHOU

finally brave enough to ask "...and is anybody in residence at the moment?" "No" replied Carl "We only do tours when they're away otherwise you might bump into them on their golf buggies" It wasn't clear whether such an encounter would be detrimental to the visitors or the residents but it encouraged somebody else in the group to ask when Sir Fred and Sir David were due to return. "Next week sometime," said Carl. "The helicopters are always going to and fro so you never quite know when exactly. Sometimes you're working in the garden and they just drive up behind you in a buggy and surprise you with a hello". By now we were hanging on his every word, poised to ask a whole raft of questions about these intensely private men but Carl continued by telling us about the workings of the island's desalination plant. We had now reached the doors of a tiny chapel. We were ushered inside to shelter from a summer cloudburst. There was a beautiful illuminated alter, several polished wooden pews and a ceiling which we were told had been modelled on the Sistene Chapel with exquisite mosaic tiles. The attention to detail was breathtaking. Somebody asked whether services were ever held in the chapel and we were told of the beautiful Catholic masses held for the Portuguese staff at Christmas. We climbed down the stairs to the small crypt below but nobody was brave enough to ask who would be the first to occupy its shelves. A large wooden cross was erected on the headland facing Point Beleme , the highest point of Sark, providing a sense of reflection as we gazed across the rough waters towards Sark. The cross, we were told, was fashioned from telegraph poles washed up in the storms. The tour continued in the drizzle and we stopped again at the lake, a large expanse of water fashioned on Monet 's gardens at Givergny, complete with Japanese bridge, lilies and a fountain. We took photographs (people had been very sparing of their camera use so far) and then stood on the bridge looking down at the super sized carp swimming happily below. I started to detect a definite feeling of disappointment amongst the group that life on the island appeared so normal and that we were not going to see Sir Fred or Sir David strolling around in their slippers after all. Having learnt about the rat and butterfly populations on the island we moved onto the vegetable gardens and by now the existence of the brothers almost seemed to have been forgotten. The sun had come out and it was like Gardeners' Question Time as Carl was fired with queries about soil quality and harvest dates. We walked through the greenhouses and strolled past the raised beds planted with sprouts, cabbages and rows and rows of onions. Just when we thought we had seen enough onions to last a lifetime, Carl showed us yet more of them. There seemed to be enough onions to supply a small battalion of the British Army on manoeuvres. "Yes, the chef uses a lot of them" he said in response to somebody's question.

unattended amongst the raised vegetable beds with strict instructions not to stray. None of us dared move so we sat down guarded by the onions and waited for his return. The tour eventually resumed and we enjoyed more distant views over Guernsey. Things got a whole lot more interesting when one of the buildings we passed was described to us as the dentist's house. "The dentist's house?" somebody repeated with surprise. Further down the slope we were then shown the helicopter hanger but this didn't seem to provoke anywhere near the same interest as the dentist's abode. We then entered an area called the Village, a cluster of buildings which included an old fashioned red public telephone box and a traditional English style pub called the Dog and Duck. We were told that there were about sixteen permanent staff on the island and this was where they came to relax. We stopped for tea and a chat with the island manager who asked if everything was to our satisfaction. We replied that everything was indeed to our satisfaction and the conversation was again steered carefully towards the flora and forna on the island. After tea the island manager, a clipped and well educated man in a shirt and tie, escorted us around to the front of the house where we got the best view of it yet. It was without doubt a magnificent building, one of the biggest private residences, we were told, to have been built in Britain in the past two hundred years and it's rolling lawns were manicured to perfection. He explained to us how the sophisticated heating system worked, how the grouting in between the blocks of Spanish granite was being renewed and he pointed out the hand crafted lead guttering above our heads, the drainage boxes bearing the alternate initials of Sir Fred and Sir David. Truly impressive stuff and we were allowed to stand and marvel at the building for a bit. After a few minutes our youngest daughter asked "What is there inside?" She saw that the Island manager seemed momentarily thrown by this question so quickly clarified "...you know, is there any stuff like gyms and swimming pools?" "Oh yes, there's a lot of stuff inside" he replied. So with the Barclay brothers' privacy firmly under wraps, we proceeded down the hill to the harbour. Amidst much radio communication between invisible staff, we were counted back onto the boat wearing our life jackets and there was visible relief on the face of the island manager as we eventually pulled away and the staff waved goodbye to us from the jetty. We came away from the trip knowing plenty about Brecqhou but nothing really about it's famous residents -exactly, I imagine, as what was intended by its organisers. So if you ever get the chance like we did, do visit the sixth largest of the Channel Islands. It is indeed beautiful and, oh, I almost forgot - the onions are awesome.

After ten minutes of wall to wall vegetables we were starting to tire a bit but had an unexpected breather when somebody was whisked away on the dreaded golf buggy for a toilet visit. The mention of the toilet promoted unease amongst the group and suddenly about half of those present also expressed a desire to go. Much radio communication ensued between Carl and his invisible colleagues elsewhere on the island and eventually, unable to track down another buggy, he had no choice but to take a contingent on foot himself and leave the rest of us

OCTOBER ISSUE | 55

ANTIQUES

The Importance of Condition

By Stephen Cohu

It is rather obvious to say that the better the condition of an item the more it will be worth. This is almost always true but of course some things will retain more of their value when damaged compared to others that may be rendered virtually worthless. It is very difficult to apply general rules when assessing condition versus value as there are many factors to be taken into account. There are many different collecting fields where condition and originality are the prime drivers of value, particularly where there are many damaged and worn examples compared to the extreme rarity of the same items in perfect condition. If you want a good example of this then look no further than vintage and antique toys and coins but more on that later. We will take a very general look at different classes of antiques and collectables and give some pointers as to what to look for with regard to condition and whether to restore a damaged item or leave it as it is. RARITY The most important factor of whether condition problems will affect the value of an item to a greater or lesser degree will be its rarity. This will be the overriding factor in any class of antique, vintage or collectable item. This may seem obvious but very often potentially valuable items will be thrown away because they are damaged. If you do not know whether an item is still valuable even if damaged then it is always better to get it checked out before you make an uninformed decision to bin it- check it out before you chuck it out as we have said many times! It an item is unique or of extreme rarity then damage may not affect the value very much, if at all, especially if the item is sought by many collectors as the “Holy Grail” of their collecting field. If there are no perfect examples known or available then collectors will fight to own the best example. A recent example is the discovery of the earliest known sealed shaft and globe shape black glass wine bottle dating from the English Civil War period. It was chipped and had a crack but sold for over £100,000! A later common example of a broken bottle is more than likely worthless- but can you tell the difference?! AGE The age of an item will also affect how much value will be lost through damage. As things get older they are more and more likely to get damaged, indeed some things of great age and antiquity will rarely be found perfect. Good examples are ancient Egyptian carvings in granite, they are almost invariably damaged and indeed a perfect example would be regarded with great suspicion. Generally speaking, damage is more acceptable the older an item is. An 18th century plate with a stapled crack may still be worth something based on its age but a Clarice Cliff plate from the 1930s with an ordinary pattern that has been broken and stuck back together with be worthless. Then again should it be thrown away simply on the judgement of its financial value? A broken example with a rare pattern may still be valuable so age cannot be considered in isolation of rarity. AESTHETICS AND RESTORATION A damaged item may no longer be pleasing to the eye, being disfigured by perhaps an ugly or incompetent repair, a badly

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restored painting for example. In this case the extent the value will be affected will depend on two main factors- can the look of the item be improved and how much will it cost to restore properly. Restoration of many items is carried out to conceal the damage- restoring it does not make it any less damaged! Museums will often only repair or restore to a level which makes the item possible to display, any additions or repairs will be left obvious to retain the integrity of the item. For example, the bowl on display at La Hougue Bie in which a coin hoard was originally buried had been smashed but it has merely been glued back together. It has not been overpainted to conceal the damage. In fact, over-restored items may actually be worth less than the same item left in damaged condition. That way the owner can decide how far they want to go in concealing or repairing damage. A much restored painting that has cracked and flaked in large areas with significant recent overpaint could be considered no longer to be a work by the original artist and its value reflected accordingly. BOOKS The condition factors of a book would be enough of a topic to fill this whole magazine let alone a short paragraph in one article. Most books have little or no second hand value and this is especially true if they are in poor condition. Books are designed to be handled and read rather than put in a A first edition of From Russia with cabinet as decoration! With Love. Even with a damaged dust this in mind they are often jacket worth hundreds of pounds. soiled, ripped, pages falling out, missing dust jackets. Rarity is the prime factor when considering book values, first editions by little known authors who have gone on to be very famous being a good example. A first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J K Rowling, originally issued to public libraries in very small numbers will be worth at least £25,000 even if tatty. A first of The Order of the Phoenix, one million printed, is worth a couple of quid even in pristine condition. Generally however it is true to say that books in poor condition will not be collectable or desirable but as ever check it out before you chuck it out! COINS Every day in the shop people bring us collections of old coins to look at with a view to sale. Perhaps of any collecting field, other

ANTIQUES

than stamps, condition is crucial to the value of a coin. Never polish or clean old coins as this takes away their value. Coins are graded according to condition usually ranging from fine, very fine, extremely fine and uncirculated. Common coins will only be worth collecting in top grades; the rarer the coin the higher the value will be in poor condition. Coins may of course have a value not An 1891 silver crown in slightly worn condition worth £30. In relevant to their condition perfect condition it is worth £300. because they contain precious metals. A sovereign for example has a fixed value as it contains 8 grams of 22ct gold, condition is not important.

value as wear and tear over hundreds of years will obviously take its toll. FURNITURE Furniture has the advantage that generally things even in poor condition can be restored to bring them back into a good state. Sympathetic restoration of antique furniture is generally acceptable and in most cases will enhance rather than reduce the value of the piece. Bad or insensitive restoration will have the opposite effect. Extensive restoration may affect the originality of a piece but these issues only affect the very finest items at investment levels. The primary consideration regarding condition of most furniture now is how much it will cost to restore compared to its restored value. Most items are not worth restoring and are best left as they are unless they are dangerous or unusable. Minor condition issues may actually add to the character and appeal of many old pieces. With furniture the older it is the less poor condition will detract from value as wear and tear over hundreds of years will obviously take its toll.

TOYS We regularly see on the antiques and collectables shows on television people bring along toys to be valued. By their nature they are usually always in used and often poor condition. They were supposed to be played with so those that are in perfect condition especially if they retain their original packaging are worth a huge premium to play worn examples. Rarity is again a key factor and often old toys that are in bad condition have a higher value as decorator’s pieces rather than collectables. Damaged toys are more collectable than restored examples so never repaint or repair old toys as you will devalue them. STAMPS I am not even going to attempt to give any guidance on the condition of stamps other to say even the tiniest imperfections will render most stamps worthless. That is however a huge generalisation and it is always best to get stamps appraised by an expert. FURNITURE Furniture has the advantage that generally things even in poor condition can be restored to bring them back into a good state. Sympathetic restoration of antique furniture is generally acceptable and in most cases will enhance rather than reduce the value of the piece. Bad or insensitive restoration will have the opposite effect. Extensive restoration may affect the originality of a piece but these issues only affect the very finest items at investment levels. The primary consideration regarding condition of most furniture now is how much it will cost to restore compared to its restored value. Most items are not worth restoring and are best left as they are unless they are dangerous or unusable. Minor condition issues may actually add to the character and appeal of many old pieces. With furniture the older it is the less poor A damaged Chinese vase from the Jiaqing period, still potentially valuable. condition will detract from

A good painting with a large tear, still very much worth restoring.

PAINTINGS AND ARTWORK Condition will seriously affect the value of artworks especially if it affects their aesthetic qualities. A faded watercolour for example cannot be restored and will be worth little in comparison to an unfaded example. Poor condition will affect the value of high value art to a lesser degree but it will still have a significant impact especially if restoration will be difficult or expensive. POOR CONDITION DOESN’T NECESSARILY MEAN WORTHLESS! The impact of poor condition on value will be dependent on many factors. Just because it is in poor condition doesn’t mean you should chuck it out. Value is measured in more ways than simply financial- these pieces are our heritage. Many damaged items can be improved or restored but many are simply best left showing the effect of the passage of time. Remember- check it out before you chuck it out!

OCTOBER ISSUE | 57

FASHION

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THE BEST JACKETS FOR AUTUMN DAYS

(Est. in Jersey since 1997)

where beauty meets science

Fall into beautiful skin this Autumn

Katie Wright reveals the trends to try now - from blazers to bikers to boucle.

NON SURGICAL PROCEDURES, LASER,

NEW PLASMA PEN, DERMAL FILLERS AND WRINKLE RELAXING INJECTIONS. Call Julie Naidu, Elizabeth Butler or Kathrin Baumert on 888272 to book your consultation. The Laser Centre. Island Medical Centre, 14 Gloucester Street, St Helier, Jersey Email: enquiries@thelasercentrejersey.co.uk www.thelasercentrejersey.co.uk In the fashion world, they call it the 'transitional' period - that early autumn phase when it's too cold to go completely coatless but if you actually put on a parka, you'd end up sweltering in minutes. Jackets, therefore, are the order of the day, ready to layer over dresses or under jumpers when it gets chilly. A good jacket will come in handy for spring too, and on holidays when you need a cover-up for evening, so invest wisely now and you'll be thanking us for years to come. As for now? Here are autumn's top jacket trends... COLOURED BIKER JACKETS It's safe to say a black biker jacket will never go out of style, but a coloured version will give your dark autumnal dresses a new lease of life. BRIGHT BLAZERS Last year was all about grey check blazers, but this year we're loving block brights paired with cropped culottes and ankle boots for the office, or jeans and white trainers at the weekend. CORD JACKETS If you're loving the AW18 Seventies trend then a cord jacket is a must, whether it's a casual cosy trucker or a sharp blazer. BOUCLE JACKETS There's really no need to shop at Chanel when the high street does the cropped boucle jacket so well. Make sure yours is boxy and buttonless for an authentic could-be-designer look. SUEDE JACKETS Create a fabulous texture and colour clash by teaming a suede jacket with slouchy knitwear and patent block-heeled boots.

OCTOBER ISSUE | 59

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

THINK PINK Month Cheryl Raphael explains the ABCs of ABC... that ABC can help you with, but also financially. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be incredibly debilitating so whilst receiving treatment ABC can help with cleaning and ironing services, childcare costs, and flights to the UK for treatment and appointments so that a loved-one can accompany you.

After Breast Cancer Jersey was set up almost 20 years ago and continues to go from strength to strength in helping local breast cancer patients and their families through treatment. Like many local charities, you don’t tend to know or hear about them until you need them. Don’t be misled by the name of the charity; After Breast Cancer are here to help from the point of diagnosis to completion of treatment. ABC hold monthly meetings at The Oasis at Macmillan’s Lido HQ on the last Wednesday of each month except August & September. Some meetings are purely a get together over tea & biscuits, and sometimes we have talks from a variety of health care professionals, beauty experts and alternative therapists. ABC also have a dedicated helpline, a Facebook Page and a well-informed website with up-to-date news, events and helpful information. If you would prefer to meet in the privacy of your home or somewhere on a one to one basis then we are only a phone call away. It is not only the emotional side of cancer

For ladies requiring surgery, ABC pay for post-operative bras which will be specially fitted by the Breast Care Team, ensuring the correct support is given after surgery. If reconstructive surgery is needed ABC fund nipple tattooing, this is carried out locally and the results are incredible. In recent years through fundraising ABC have also supplied much needed medical equipment for Oncology,The Breast Care team, Jersey Hospice and the Mammography Department. These have included 2 Portable Scanners, a Chemotherapy Fridge, a Vein Finder, a fully stocked Library Trolley, and a Lipo Sculpture Machine to name but a few. Due to the success of our recent Ball we are in the process of purchasing a moisture meter for the Lymphedema Department at Jersey Hospice and also a patient monitor and new robes for the Mammography Department. Over the past 4 years we have also helped bring over members of the UK charity CoppaFeel who are truly amazing at raising breast cancer awareness in the local schools and collages in a fun and informative way. Thousands of Jersey students have now been made breast aware and this is invaluable in early diagnosis and should lead to saving lives.

Two years ago we proudly launched ABC Fitness. This program is deigned specifically for breast cancer patients by Georgina Hopkins, a Level 4 Cancer Rehabilitation Specialist. Thanks to her and the amazing team at Healthhaus, who provide the fitness rooms, we are able to help women gain flexibility and fitness and give them confidence to start exercising again. The 12-week program has proved invaluable to so many women and runs alongside weekly health talks. Many of the attendees have formed friendship groups and have regular get-togethers to catch up and also to support each other. ABC may only be a small local charity but by us all working on a voluntary basis we can achieve so much. We were therefore incredibly proud and overwhelmed to have won The Small Charity of the Year Award in 2015, and came 3rd in 2017. We work tirelessly all year around and rely entirely on the incredible generosity of the local companies and the general public who support us. Every penny we raise stays in Jersey and helps us support local women and their families through their treatment.

If you would like to help ABC you can donate at our Just Giving Page After Breast Cancer Jersey. For further information about ABC please go to www.afterbreastcancer.org.je or visit our Facebook page. We also have a designated helpline 07797 814522.

For further information about ABC please go to www.afterbreastcancer.org.je or visit our Facebook page We also have a designated helpline 07797 814522

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HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Retox to a detox... By Penny Downes of PENNYFEATHERS Beauty, St Clements As we head into the later part of the year and look towards 2019 our diaries begin to fill with celebrations, late nights, early morning and a general period of over doing it. Having fun is the task of the day and we all love it! However during this period our bodies do take the pressure and always need a little extra TLC to look good and feel great. During and After a period of over indulgence we need to detox and rebalance the body. Our skin is a biggest living organ and the one everyone's sees so after a period of over doing it, we can look lack lustre. Here's some top tips to detoxifier skin, body and mind to restore your new year glow. To motivate we always need a quick fix. So every morning Drink hot water with lemon. The Lemons support your liver and kidneys, whilst the hot water stimulates good digestion hence it starts to clear up the skin. Keep hydrated with water throughout the day to keep the goodness going. By adding more water the puffiness around the eye area can be reduced radically. You can improve your skin with a simple weekend detoxâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and it doesn't involve fasting, purging, or a complete rearrangement of your life. There are some easy methods like massage, exercise and facials that flush out waste and toxins. All So you wake up Monday morning with a fresh, radiant complexion. Another step to detox the mind is to Clear the clutter. Simply straightening up the junk on your coffee table or doing a load of laundry will prepare you for the inner cleansing to come. Then Stock the fridge with scrumptious skin loving healthy food such as fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Let their antioxidant levels help repair, and prevent, damage to your skin. Adding the lean protein (chicken, turkey, and tofu) will keep you sustained during your detox. During a busy time why not take the opportunity to streamline your skincare. Less is more so stick to the basics. Keep out your cleanser, serum, moisturiser and banish the rest. Your exfoliator and mask will be used for a home facial but aren't needed daily. Next it's self massage time. By relaxing your body with massaging the skin, you Encourage the elimination of waste by manually moving lymph 62 | www.life-mags.com

through the lymphatic system. Concentrate on massaging the neck, armpits, stomach, groin and behind the knees, all areas where there are a lot of lymph nodes. Gentle stroking movements are good trying not to pull or push at the skin too much. Post massage why not try a fake facial at home. Lay back and relax with an at home steam. Pour hot water into a small bowl and add a few drops of a citrus essential oil. Soak a hand towel in the water, then wring out and drape over your face. Lie down for ten minutes and let the steam open your pores, prepping your skin for the detoxifying mask that follows. Look for masks made with clay, which absorbs excess oil and pulls toxins and impurities out, while adding in necessary minerals. The harsh cold weather,later nights and parties also means we should remember to step up our body care. With our face being nicely cared for and our internal organs feeling the food and drink benefits we need to look after our body with a Scrub. Wake up your senses with a sloughing session in the shower. Exfoliate with a product that contains coffee to remove dead, dulling skin cells, boost circulation, and pump toxins from the body.Moisturise after to hydrate and soothe the skin. Next let's Sweat it all out. Light exercise helps eliminate toxins from your body. Why not try Taking deep breathes too. They all stimulate the lymphatic system as it brings cleansing oxygen into the body with each inhale, and expels waste on each exhale. January comes and it's time to Start your detox period, think about home facials that you nourish and calm your complexion. Not only have you cared for your body but you would of relaxed your soul, bringing you a brighter and better complexion just after a couple of days. Let's start the season as we mean to go on! Supplements take a huge part in taking care of us from the inside. Winter is a time where bugs breed and a good armoury of vitamins can help fight them. Increase your VitaminC and B12 for energy and immunity. Think of adding probiotics to your diet too to aid in good gut health which can be reduced after a overindulgence period. Good gut health helps to promote good overall body health. www.penny-feathers.co.uk

Waxing Lyrical… RIO… A BEAUTY REVIEW When on a recent cold, rainy Sunday, I sat to write this, with my dogs cuddled against my legs, I felt I could fill the page with the words; RIO, NICKY, AMAZING…and be done, but of course when Director Brian engaged me to write a rave-review about Rio’s latest recruit…I rather think he expected a little more…review by Juanita Shield-Laignal. “Come along and have a treatment with Nicky,” said Brian. “She’s great at massage and Reflexology and has been on a Dermalogica training course in London, so we’d also love you to have a facial too”. Well how could I refuse! Knowing Brian’s high standards for both professionalism and delivery of high end products, I expected it to be good, but it was oh so much more. I arrived one Friday morning at 10:30 and was greeted by a young woman dressed top to toe in smart black therapy uniform. We sat, initially in the reception area of the hair salon, where Nicky conducted a Face Mapping Skin Analysis, to ascertain my individual skin needs. Having established my skin is basically good, with the exception of occasional dry patches, Nicky invited me upstairs through a warren of corridors into a gently lit, warm treatment room. I was asked to ensconce myself between clean, fluffy towels. Nicky Switched on soft background music and began the first part of the treatment; a body massage. The moment Nicky placed her hands on me, with a confident and perfectly pressured touch, I knew it was going to be good. I allowed myself to relax and enjoy for a while, but then just had to know how she had come by her experienced routine. “From a young age I had wanderlust and after completing my beauty training, I worked on several cruise ships” explained Nicky. I was interested to know in which parts of the world and learned - the Baltics, Caribbean, Italy, Croatia and Hawaii. I made observational comments on her great massage techniques and Nicky confirmed she uses a mixture of all the different techniques learned over years, including Swedish, Thai and Hawaiian. “I like to bring the different techniques together in the best way to help my client on the day” Nicky shared. So this is what makes her treatment so unique and great. After working on the back of my body Nicky asked me to turn over and then massaged the front of my body paying particular attention to my arms, which felt amazing. Then onto the individually tailored Dermalogica facial… after a thorough cleansing and toning, Nicky brushed Dermalogica i35, containing Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHAs) all over my face explaining it

would eat away at dead skin cells ‘in a pac-man manner’. I was to expect a slight tingling sensation as the ingredients did their work. Whilst this was going on, Nicky began some work on my feet using her Reflexology skills but also including some deeper Thai massage techniques…this was both relaxing and invigorating in one. I asked Nicky if she also does regular beauty treatments such as waxing and nails and so on…It turned out she does and having arrived in the Island just a few years ago, had previously been employed at top hotels. The top layer of my skin having been suitably eaten away, Nicky laid a hot towel over my face, then wiped away the remnants of the masque leaving my face feeling fresh and clean. A facial massage ensued and then a layer of Dermalogica Multi-Vitamin recovery masque was applied, containing Vitamin C, A, E and B5. With this needing ten minutes or so to seep deeply into my dermis, Nicky used the time to deftly administer a wonderful scalp massage. I was unable to ask further questions at this point…so relaxed was I and in another dimension (possibly dribbling…but we won’t mention that!) and then the rest of the treatment was a blissed out blur, but in a really good way. Two and half hours after I arrived, Nicky asked me to carefully sit up, when she handed me a glass of water to help me come round. She then left me to dress. Following Nicky back downstairs, I thanked her for her amazing treatment and vowed I would return. I couldn’t leave without seeking out Brian and assuring him he had ‘found a real catch in Nicky’. “I know” he said simply and grinned. I wandered back out into my day, returning to work and then to school for a ‘meet the new teacher’ session. Some of the Mums commented on my glowing skin and blissed out state…I carried the relaxed feeling into the evening and my skin felt amazing for days. Nicky has magic hands and I can’t wait to go back and experience further treatments with her, although, I’m not sure Nicky’s top-to-toe pampering can be bettered…

Love Bird Gifts & Pottery Studio You’ll choose from a variety of bisque (ready to paint ceramics) pieces. Our helpful staff will then guide you on your path to ceramic painting bliss. We’ll get you started by showing you our color selection or beautiful papers for decopatch. We have no studio fee – you just pay for what you paint or decorate! We’ll provide instruction on how to apply the paints using a multitude of techniques such as: sponging, bubbling, stencils, stamping, tool decorations, taping, glaze pens, or free forming designs on with a pencil. We’re happy to assist you with any design questions or color consultations. We want you to love what you make and smile while you’re doing it!

Love Bird Gifts & Pottery Studio is more than an ordinary gift shop, it’s a creative place to inspire giving, beautiful living and let your imagination sparkle! Owned by Charlotte Langley, Island Girl and illustrator, Love Bird was launched in 2010 purely as a gift shop selling my own designs and illustrations, the Jersey Gals, Little Jersey Bean, China & Ink and Coastal Blue amongst other quirky and different gifts, however, I always knew I wanted to incorporate my love of arts and crafts into the business. Such an opportunity came along when I opened Love Bird Gifts & Pottery Studio at Jersey War Tunnels – Over the last few years the pottery studio has taken on a life of its own, hosting ladies nights, baby groups, birthday parties, hen parties and a few date nights – it is a really fun way to start off the day or evening and a great ice-breaker! In the studio we have a huge selection of white bisqeware waiting to be decorated. Items range from functional to decorative mugs, moneyboxes, figurines, plant pots, teapots, trinket boxes and much much more! Some of my favourite pieces to create are the clay family impressions, a stunning way of capturing those little hand and footprints, lasting mementoes of those little fingers and toes that grow so quickly. No Reservations Necessary for groups of 4 or less. At Love Bird Gifts & Pottery Studio, no reservations are needed to pop in anytime we’re open to paint ceramics between 10am -5pm everyday – last painting time is 4pm.

I truly enjoy watching people paint and decorate ceramics especially when they believe they have limited artistic talent, we show them some tools give some advice and then they go ahead and create some amazing and beautiful, pieces that they are proud of. I sell all sorts of things that I love in the shop, and that I hope you will love too. From pretty things for your house to Little Jersey Bean babygros, the full range of my ‘Jersey Gals’ cows, amusing things to make you laugh, crafty things for the crafty minded, and nostalgic bits for those who like to reminisce. As a mum of two some of the most important people are the staff of Love Bird, the girls. We as a team all have different strengths, abilities and roles yet we work together making sure we deliver the best service and experience we can, always learning, trying, failing, dreaming big, enjoying the small stuff and helping each other every day. Creativity is at the heart of everything we do, along with a healthy dose of laughter everyday – welcome to Love Bird! X

Love Bird Gifts and Pottery Studio is located at Jersey War Tunnels, Les Charrieres Malorey, St Lawrence, JE3 1FU. Open 7 days a week between 10am – 5pm • Telephone: 865972 • Email: charlotte@lovebirdgifts.co.uk www.facebook.com/lovebirdgiftshop • www.facebook.com/nestartstudio (Closed between 19th December – 1st March, although open for parties and by appointment)

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Life Coaching - The career of the millennium Mark Shields Explains... Life coaching has exploded into mainstream society in the past ten years and once upon a time only the very wealthy and A-list celebrities would have been able to employ their own personal coach. Nowadays one in three of us, at some point in our lives, will need the services of a professional coach. Life coaching has been quoted many times in the press and the media as the occupation of the millennium. Life Coaching helps you to make deep and lasting personal change within yourself. It is based on a number of disciplines, like neuro-linguistic programming or hypnotherapy, which can lead you down a path of self-actualisation. Mentoring, values assessment, behaviour modification, behaviour modelling, goal setting and other techniques are also used. Unlike counselling, it does not focus on the past, but on where we are now and where we want to be. By learning these skills, you can be supported and empowered throughout every area of your own unique life journey. Who uses it? Everybody faces day-to-day challenges, whether they are in relationships, at work or at home. Sometimes we are held back from achieving our true potential. Emotions derive from powerful thoughts some positive and some negative and when the latter occur on a regular basis they can prevent people from achieving what they want in life. If you suffer from a lack of confidence, assertiveness or self-esteem, it can have a dramatic effect on your personal and work/life balance. You may suffer from fears or phobias that can hinder your life. One client of mine

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many years ago was an executive based in Jersey who was required to fly all over the world in order to carry out his job – he had a fear of flying. …and this impacted his life enormously.

As a result of excessive stress at work you could be experiencing panic attacks, anxiety or, in some cases, depression. These symptoms are all a result of your stress response firing off one too many times and taking its toll at a biological level within your body. You were not born like this and have therefore learned to feel this way. Many of us spend much of our time thinking and thoughts can have a positive or negative affect on the body. If you think of thoughts as small energy cells or entities they will either build into large positive entities or large negative entities – that then create the emotion and subsequently the behaviour according to the type of cell it is. One aspect of life coaching can teach you how to switch off the negative thinking and encourage the positive thinking whilst also creating some action planning and goal setting towards your chosen outcome for the issue at hand.

A coach can help you to unlearn restrictive habits and present your life in a more acceptable light. The attraction of life coaching is that it can offer relatively fast results, as long as one is prepared to be brutally honest with oneself and willing to take responsibility. It is possible to see your life in a different capacity and make changes for the better. Many life coaches divide their clinics into personal and business coaching, others simply focus on one area or the other. Personal coaching tends to be on a one to one basis, and business coaching is aimed from the self-employed small business individual to large corporations, executives and company directors. It is deemed that everyone has the scope to improve and develop oneself and reach his or her full potential. The financial cost of hiring a life coach can vary immensely depending on the experience of your chosen coach. Typically sessions are charged at an hourly or daily rate. £95 to £180 per hour is the range. It is vital that you are offered a chance to discuss with your potential coach that you are looking to hire what they can do for you in terms of your end goal, how many sessions that may take and how long they have been practising as a life coach. Ask them how they became a life coach, where they did their training and are they accredited to any professional bodies – this will give you a better chance of identifying the right coach for you. Personal development is so important to grow as an individual and it can in turn raise one’s confidence, self esteem and lead an individual to their purpose of leading a fulfilling and happy life. Mark Shields has been a trainer of NLP, Clinical Hypnotherapy & Life & Business Coaching since 2005. He continues to run his Life Practice clinic whilst also offering his training courses via the Life Practice Online Academy for online training and the NLP Coaching Company for face-to-face courses. For more information, telephone 01462 431112 or visit his website at www.nlpcourseschannelislands.com

MOTORING

Ferrari Portofino: THE ITALIAN GRAND TOURER PAR EXCELLENCE The Ferrari Portofino is the new V8 GT set to dominate its segment thanks to a perfect combination of outright performance and versatility in addition to a level of driving pleasure and on-board comfort unparalleled on the market. Capable of unleashing a massive 600 cv and sprinting from 0 to 200 km/h in just 10.8 seconds, the Ferrari Portofino is the most powerful convertible to combine the advantages of a retractable hard top, a roomy boot and generous cockpit space complete with two rear seats suitable for short trips. Starting with the V8 power unit, which has won the outright International Engine of the Year award for two consecutive years in 2016 and 2017, Ferrari’s engineers worked on several different fronts to deliver a power output of 600 cv at 7500 rpm, the equivalent of 156 cv/l, introducing new mechanical components as well as specific engine management software. The Ferrari Design Centre-penned Portofino is an aggressivelystyled car with a two-box fastback configuration - unprecedented in a coupé-convertible with a retractable hard top - that adds extra sleekness to its silhouette, lending it a sportier character without impinging on its elegance and dynamism. While the Portofino’s exterior exudes a stylish compactness and instantly marks out its GT vocation, its cabin too has also been carefully designed and developed. The Ferrari Design team pinpointed certain specific essential requirements, the foremost of these being formal and functional coherency between the car’s 68 | www.life-mags.com

exterior and its interior, weight reduction and creating more space for occupants. The new car, which takes its name, Portofino, from one of the most charming villages on the Italian Riviera, an eponym for stylish elegance, is the most versatile model in the range. A Ferrari designed to be driven every day that also effortlessly converts from an authentic ‘berlinetta’ coupé to a drop-top capable of delivering a unique Ferrari soundtrack and superb driving pleasure even in day-to-day situations.

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MOTORING

LEXUS NX 300h F SPORT By Jamie Fisher

Radical and challenging in appearance, the NX has been designed for people who want to stand out from the crowd.

WHAT IS IT? The Lexus NX 300h F Sport is a self charging Hybrid which has an electric motor and petrol engine which are connected to the front wheels and joined by a second electric motor which is connected to the rear wheels, making it a four-wheel drive car. Lexus call this ‘E-Four” because it’s unlike a traditional 4WD, which connects the rear axle to the engine via a prop shaft. Instead, the electric motor at the rear only needs an electrical signal via a wire to start turning.

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Facts at a glance Model: Lexus NX 300h F Sport Engine: 2494cc four-cylinder petrol Max Speed: (mph) 112 0-62 mph: 9.2 seconds MPG (combined): 54.3 Emissions (g/km combined): 121

MOTORING

bumpers at front and rear; and the unique roof treatment which peaks above the heads of the rear occupants then slopes down abruptly to the rear, giving the car its highly distinctive profile. The front lights have a uniquely futuristic look and the famous Lexus ‘spindle grille’ has never appeared more dynamic on the NX. WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? The visual impression is fantastic, a colour palette that combines force with finesse in an unmistakably urban way.

It’s a completely automatic system, so there’s no 4WD button. If you’re on a slippery surface, the car’s computer will decide to reduce power to the front wheels and divert it to the motor at the rear. Lexus claim that this reduces fuel consumption and emissions. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? When starting off, the powerful front and additional rear electric motor on All-Wheel drive models can swiftly propel the NX up to 40mph, thus with electric power supplied by the hybrid battery. At this point the vehicle is almost silent, uses no petrol and produces zero emissions. A super vehicle for commuting or for the school run and a perfect size for our meandering country lanes.

The luxury is reinforced by the leather sports seats which hug you when in your driving position. There’s lots to admire, the intuitive Touch Pad that lets front seat occupants interact with the central10.3 inch display, which is as easy to use as a smartphone or a tablet. It also has multi-function steering wheel which controls the audio and communication system. There’s a cup holder, made of high-friction elastomer, that allows you to unscrew a bottle cap with one hand and there’s a small, lined container in the centre console that features a detachable lid which doubles up as a vanity mirror. VERDICT A superb hybrid of great craftsmanship, an excellent vehicle for island driving. I would highly recommend the NX.

When in sports mode and accelerating you can feel the power of the electric motors instantaneously supplementing the 2.5 litre petrol engine. Together they deliver a potent surge of torque to give breathtakingly fast linear acceleration when you need it. When decelerating or coming to a stop, the petrol engine turns off, cutting emissions to zero. Brake, or take your foot off the accelerator, and regenerative braking harnesses the kinetic energy lost in other cars. It converts this into electrical energy for storage in the hybrid battery, which is one reason why you never need to recharge a Lexus Full Hybrid. HOW DOES IT LOOK? The NX is lean and rough in a cool contemporary way. The diamond shape when seen from above; the muscular

OCTOBER ISSUE | 71

WINE

Is Wine Good for You? by Martin Flageul DipWSET, Wine Consultant

In August this year a report was published regarding the consumption of wine and its possible adverse effects on your health. In September another report was published giving wine a huge “thumbs up” stating that moderate consumption of wine can help with certain medical problems. There are merits in both views so a few explanations might help you to decide for yourself.

LONGER LIFE EXPECTANCY Centuries ago wine was used to treat certain medical conditions. Monasteries in Medieval times were convinced that their monks lived longer than the rest of the population due to their regular consumption of wine in moderation. Although this cannot be totally attributed to the monks’ wine consumption, science in recent years has indicated that this could well have contributed to their longevity. However, it must be stressed that any health benefits of wine consumption only apply to moderate drinking. DRINK WINE RESPONSIBLY Healthy eating, exercise, proper rest and a balanced lifestyle are also key to looking after your well-being if wine consumption is going to give any possible benefit to you. It is well known that people from countries with a moderate drinking culture like Italy, France and Spain, who also tend to consume some food whilst drinking wine, live longer and suffer less heart disease than people from USA and Britain. It is better to drink quality, well-made wine in smaller quantities with food and spread your consumption out over the week. There are certainly no health benefits from binge drinking WINE IS GOOD FOR THE HEART Wine contains powerful antioxidants, which are considered to be more effective than vitamins C and E. The formation of clots in blood vessels can be prevented because the antioxidants found in both red and white wine bind with and chase away free radicals. The wine mix of polyphenols and alcohol has an anti-inflammatory effect which leads to a reduced risk of a heart attack. The aspirin like qualities found naturally in wine help with the reduction of fatty cells in arteries. A study at the University of Barcelona suggests that drinking one or two glasses of wine daily leads to decreased incidence of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. ALCOHOL AND RESVERATROL Small quantities of wine intake can also have a beneficial effect on cholesterol level. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is increased with moderate alcohol consumption thus reducing the LDL (low-density lipoprotein). Too much LDL cholesterol can build up in the artery walls making one prone to strokes or heart attack. Resveratrol is a compound contained in grape skins and the vine plants use it to fight off bacteria and fungi and also to protect against ultraviolet rays. It has been proven that wine consumption enhances gut microbiota which could reduce the risk of heart disease due to the presence or resveratrol, particularly in red wine. DEPRESSION AND DEMENTIA A study carried out in Spain over a seven-year period using data for over 5,500 men and women aged from 55 to 80 years old showed that those who drank between two and seven glasses of wine weekly were less likely to be diagnosed with depression, even after taking their individual lifestyles into account. The content of resveratrol in red wine reduces the stickiness of blood platelets thus helping the blood vessels to be open and flexible promoting a good supply of blood to the brain. A long-term study of data from 19 nations found a statistically lower risk of dementia among moderate red wine drinkers in 14 countries.

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Go ahead and grab a glass of wine and enjoy responsibly! Good Health!

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Reviews & Clues! QUICK CROSSWORD 1

6 7

11 12

15 16

20 21

Across

Down

1. Public display (10)

1. Fifty-fifty odds (5)

7. Sea (5)

2. Good-looking (8)

8. Inconsistent (7)

3. Beer-maker (6)

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Answers can be found in next month’s edition of the Jerseylife.

BOOK of the month... AN ABSOLUTELY REMARKABLE THING by Hank Green is published in hardback by Trapeze, priced £14.99 (ebook £7.99). Available now YouTuber Hank Green's debut novel is part millennial social commentary, part sci-fi novel. An Absolutely Remarkable Thing is both completely realistic and utterly fantastical, while managing to touch on some incredibly deep themes, including gender, the internet, fame and humanity. Green's first-hand knowledge of YouTube fame and fortune gives complete authenticity to the protagonist - 23-year-old April May, who is the first to discover one of 64, 10-ft-tall sculptures (named Carl) that suddenly appear on Earth. The novel follows April as she shoots to internet, and then worldwide fame, and has to deal with everything that comes with that - not to mention what the Carls are and what they're doing here. It's an adventure that starts off with excitement, and ends with a lot of questions, about love, life, the media, and what's beyond Earth. (Review by Rebecca Wilcock)

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LEXUS JERSEY 21+8)9-//) !2%( "7 "%9-285 )56); "

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JERSEY

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the Jerseylife | OCTOBER 2018

ISSUE 155 | THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE