The Riverside Journals by The Riverside Journals

The Riverside Journals

Notting Hill edition

September/October 2017 • Edition 50 • Complimentary

Give a little piece of Scotland Gi ve a l i tt le p ie c e o f S c o t la n d Scented candles in hand painted bowls Sce nte d ca nd les in hand paint ed bowls Christmas wrapped up in Mar ylebone Chri stma s wrapped up in Mar ylebone

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Ristorante Italiano Celebrating our 40th Anniversary

A Family owned fine Italian Restaurant in the heart of Sheen, serving exquisite Italian regional food A great place to entertain friends & family and enjoy classic Italian cooking

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Cover

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Accessorize Multi Scarf

your shoulders

f you thought that scarves are the fashion statement of this generation then think again! Scarves have been worn and flaunted for centuries and can be dated back to the ancient Egyptian civilization. The use and types of scarves has evolved since, and is being worn more and more by women and now even by men across the world. In some countries, the scarf is used to keep one warm in winters and in other countries it is an important element of their religion and faith. Autumn can bring an array of weather from sunny and dry to dull and wet, and sometimes a coat can feel a little cumbersome. This is where the simple scarf can offer you a warm but stylish alternative to your winter coat. We have found a range of scarves and wraps to suit every style.

Oliver Bonas Woven Grid Scarf and Sparkle pom beanie

Hobbs Gabriella scarf

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Laura Ashley Scarf

Oliver Bonas Scarf and Red beanie

Oliver Bonas Soft check scarf

MUSEOM at Catryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 255 Fulham Road London SW3 6HY Tel 0207 352 7551 email to bonjourgonzague@hotmail.com

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With MUSEOM Ltd, change your idea about Taxidermy. Buying our animals helps preserve the species remaining alive with funds collected. The benefit of their purchase goes to the protection of endangered species. All animals come from EU Zoos where they died of old age. Enhance the beauty of your interiors or of your Company with your dream animal. Contact us to check if it is available. MUSEOM Ltd proposes over 800 different mammals and 1200 birds ready to be naturalised in the position of your choice. Imagine a magnificent Lion sitting in your living room, a stunning polar bear standing in your entrance. Our realisations are relegated to the rank of Artwork and their value will increase over time. For instance, the value of a snow leopard born in a Zoo has tripled in the past 4 years. Certified by the Ministry of Environment with whom we have been working for 5 generations, all our animals are equipped with a microchip ensuring their legal provenance and offering a total traceability. Buy with your company of donate one of our rare specimens to a Museum of Natural History to raise awareness of younger generations about the dramatic disappearing of species threatened with extinction. Together we can change the World and save the Wild.

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Features Fashion

When the temperature starts to drop it’s nice to have a wrap or a scarf to keep the cold out. We feature some lovely examples of how to achieve the look of comfort and warmth without compromising your outfit. We have a lovely piece on high-end, pre-owned luxury goods from clothes to tech gadgets and everything in-between. Mixing antique jewellery with modern pieces can be effective and change the look of any outfit.

Travel Lake Como looks delightful any time of the year and we have a lovely spread on how to enjoy it at it’s best. If you prefer something as beautiful but with a bit more adventure then you must read our NC500 piece. Scotland may not always have the weather but you’d be hard pushed to find better scenery.

Food/Drink If gin’s your thing then we have the perfect article for you and if you’re in Henley you may want to try some Hobbs Gin. Raymond Blanc has given us his soup and tart recipes to recreate in our own little Le Manoir. If you prefer to be waited on, we feature lots of fabulous venues such as the American Grill Bar at The Beaumont, the Nags Head in Great Missenden, Bucks, and the Royal Horse Guards. Motocom Street in Belgravia on 27th September between 5pm and 10pm will be buzzing with food, drink, live music and shopping – bliss.

Homes/Gardens From colourful kitchen utensils to the Scandinavian Hygge way of living – if minimalistic is more to your liking – to the world of antiques; whether it be the interior or the exterior of your dwelling our Homes Feature has something for everyone. Moving to the garden, Katie Gould gives us the best tips on lighting our spaces with her “Do’s and Don’ts” to get the best effects.

The Arts On an unexpected journey into a philosophic state of mind, we were privileged to meet and interview London artist Patrick Faure. Patrick invites you to a private viewing of his work on the 11th October 6-8pm at the Sicily Bar and Restaurant in Chelsea. We also have a very interesting read on Bernar Venet, the artist whose sculptures are resident in the beautiful gardens of Cliveden.

Something for the Men Geo. F. Trumper are proud to still be producing sumptuous grooming products for gentleman. For over 100 years Trumper have enticed the worldwide traveller to explore the wonders of being surrounded by beautiful mahogany display cases and booths at the flagship Mayfair and St. James’s shops.

Hair/Beauty

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

the riverside journals

Sassoon Salon are now offering a luxe nurturing treatment service using the system professional LuxeOil range, which leaves the hair looking, feeling and smelling amazing. In our beauty section we look at which skin products help ward off the winter dryness and how to combat looking like the morning after the night before!

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Editors’ Letter Dear Reader

Sassoon Salon now offer a luxe nurturing treatment service using the System Professional LuxeOil range. A combination of oils provide a truly indulgent experience that will awaken the senses, leaving hair looking, feeling and smelling amazing. Coupled with its unique EnergyCodeTM Complex, it leaves hair instantly energized and brings long-term improvement to hair structure. The experts at Sassoon are on hand to ensure your summer hair is perfectly prepped for winter. This completely reinvented high performance collection results in hair that looks and feels luxurious.

I warmly welcome you to the crisp autumnal issue of The Riverside Journals and hope that you have had a fabulous and relaxing summer. Some of you may have been able to enjoy the amazing events on and around the Thames. This summer was particularly busy for our team, collaborating on many of London’s premier events. We danced till dawn at the Henley Regatta, picnicked in the park, and some lucky members of the team enjoyed a hypersonic day at Salon Privé, celebrating 70 years of Ferrari. Autumn brings harvest, root vegetables, cucurbita (squash, gourd and pumpkins) and orchard fruits. With this in mind we have sourced some mouthwatering recipes from Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons – if these inspire you check out their latest cookery courses, a must for any foodie. Talking about food, we share our experience of dining at the prestigious Colony Grill Room complemented by evening cocktails in the American Bar at the Beaumont Hotel, a jewel in the heart of Mayfair. Our front covers for this issue have been supplied by Fashion and Beauty Photographer Garcia Morales. Originally from Barcelona, he now bases himself in London. I hope you will join us in congratulating him on this stunning project; we think he is an inspirational and imaginative photographer. This issue is once again packed with suggestions for the best events in and around the Capital throughout autumn. I can personally recommend The Affordable Art Fair (don’t forget your wallets) in Battersea 19th-22nd of October or perhaps The Regent Street Motor Show 4th Nov, a showcase of 125 years of motoring including veteran, vintage, classic, and modern-day cars (leave your wallets at home!). If like me you are already thinking about holiday destinations for next year, look no further….. we feature cosy cottages in Northern England, the beautiful Italian Lake Como, and a child free holiday in the lush Balearic gem of Menorca. Did someone say gems? Let me share a couple of finds from this issue: Madame Spotlight Boutique in Beaconsfield (Warwick Rd) the final word in fashion, and Cudoni, an online site offering the UK’s premium luxury goods resale service for trendsetters with busy lives and overflowing wardrobes. Wishing you a wonderful autumn, Claire Matyus-Flynn, Editor Cover Credits Model: Natasha Elise Estdale Makeup artist: Roseanna Velin www.roseannavelin.com Hair: Will Lamb at Daniel Granger Hairdressing Photography: Garcia Morales www.garciamoralesphotography.com Hair Assistant: Nathanel Mensah

Director – Michele Brooks michele@theriversidejournals.com Editorial – editorial@theriversidejournals.com Editorial Team Jill Menghetti, Claire Quirk, Sylvia Richards, Anne Noakes, Alex Bailey-Staines, Claire-Marie McDonnell, Adam Jacot de Boinod, Tim Allan, Lindsay Scott, Kerry Allan, Ruth Brindle, Jeannelise Edelsten, Steve Oliver Associate Publisher – Kay Woods kay@theriversidejournals.com Business Development Manager – Lynda Foskett lynda@theriversidejournals.com Design – John Dunne design@theriversidejournals.com Production Manager – Karen Rolfe production@theriversidejournals.com

Twitter: @riversidej Facebook: riversidejournals Instagram: #riversidej

To book visit www.sassoonsalon.co.uk to find your nearest salon.

Brook Media Limited St Mary’s Court, Amersham, Buckinghamshire HP7 0UT TeI: 03333130068 www.theriversidejournals.com

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Social Media Manager – Susan Bosher social@theriversidejournals.com

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AW17/18 Collection has arrived

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New & Lingwood’s

ew & Lingwood have released their AW17/18 look book which – in their signature style – displays a wide array of bold colours, exquisite fabrics, and rich silk prints and jacquards. Tailoring is strong and rakish, with influences of the great Tommy Nutter which come through the roped shoulders, wider cut lapels and bold fabrics in stripes, checks and velvet paisley. A highlight of the collection is the subtle but striking Woodland three-piece suit, which has been created using a ‘cut-about’ technique where each panel is a contrast to the next. The subtlety is achieved by using similar scale Prince of Wales and puppytooth checks in black and white. At first glance, the design is deceptively simple but take a closer look and you’ll discern the skilfully juxtaposed cloths. The knitwear collection features the finest cashmere in hues of English mustard and burgundy and then there’s wonderfully soft merino in the intricate trellis cable from a small Irish artisan, available in an array of shades, from dark olive to rust red and cool turquoise. This hand-framed Irish knit takes inspiration from an archive of traditional fisherman designs, influenced by the pattern of their nets. Robert Noble have produced an exclusive tweed in colours redolent of the Scottish moors, cut through with rich wine, purple and rust. It has been used to create a jacket, trousers, waistcoat and even an Inverness cape, which team beautifully with the richness of the knits, silk accessories and brushed cottons shirts. Definitely a piece for the more free-spirited, confident dresser, they work beautifully with the Apsley printed velvet jacket or trousers. In keeping with the Scottish theme, a pair of New & Lingwood’s new Chicksan Tartan trousers go perfectly with their latest Devon Boot in antique burnished chestnut calf. It’s an exciting time for New & Lingwood as their Jermyn Street store undergoes a much-anticipated renovation and their shoe collections are brought to the fore. Seven brand new, exclusive shoe styles, from finest French aniline calf brogues to pebble grained country boots and leather-fringed loafers, will find their home in the new shoe shop, taking prime position on the ground floor. Of course, no new season can be released by New & Lingwood without an exclusive new English silk dressing gown or two… Autumn/Winter welcomes the Large Paisley gown in bright magenta and black or burnt orange and keep an eye out for the Gothic fantasy inspired, fire-breathing Dragon gown.

Madam Spotlight Ltd, Beacon House, Warwick Road, Beaconsfield HP9 2PE Tel: 01494 681143 â&#x20AC;¢ Email: info@madamspotlight.co.uk

Madam W Spotlight Boutique

e were intrigued to visit this hidden gem in Beaconsfield and meet with the co-founders Joanna Lizak and Marta Muskietorz and their right-hand lady Sarah Colvin. Before sitting down to have a chat we asked them to tell us in their own words about their new boutique: “We decided to open Madam Spotlight because we were unable to find anywhere local to buy elegant, unique and comfortable clothes; Italian clothes that make you look and feel like you’re always in the “spotlight”. “It is important to us that when customers visit our boutique they are welcomed in a friendly atmosphere and that their shopping experience leaves them feeling delighted. We like to inspire and surprise our customers weekly, so they will always find something new, as well as exclusive.

Specialising in Italian design for clothing, shoes, bags and accessories.

What were you all doing before opening your boutique and creating your own brand? Joanna: “My background is office and retail work.” Marta: “Also office work/clerical and focusing on bringing up my two children.” Sarah: “I have worked in fashion for over 20 years, working in retail fashion.” At what point in your lives did you decide fashion was for you? Joanna and Marta both replied, “We have been friends for over 12 years and we have enjoyed many shopping trips together. We love Italian clothes and we relished the opportunity to meet new people and discover new brands. How did you come up with the name Madam Spotlight? Joanna: “Madam is a very distinguished name.” And Marta added, “Spotlight, well, suggests your own space and illuminated area.” What do you love and enjoy most about your job? Sarah: “Meeting customers and being able to give honest feedback to them gives me such a buzz, and offering a personal touch and forming good relationships.” Your garments are beautifully designed with unmistakable elegance and excellent tailoring. I believe they are sourced from Milan. What inspires you when choosing your next collection? Joanna and Marta: “Quality is paramount. In this day and age lots of companies produce cheaper, inferior goods and it is hugely important to us that we work with companies whose products are ‘Made in Italy’ for both production and quality. Everything we sell is unique to us and we only ever order in one of each size in a design and this, we believe, gives the strong appeal factor to our customers. We are planning on offering beautiful handmade jewellery and also stylish shoes in the near future.” Do the collections that you buy suit a specific age group? “Our garments are aimed at ladies from 30 plus, offering a wide age range.” Your outlet is fitted and designed beautifully . . . Marta: “Being an independent boutique, we want to ensure that there is a comfortable and friendly atmosphere with somewhere to sit, perhaps a comfy seat for the long-suffering husband or partner, where he can wait and relax with a complimentary beverage! Will you be having private viewings, an exciting opportunity for working mums to come and see your beautiful garments? Joanna and Marta: “Yes, we will be open for private viewings throughout the season and plan to host two special events in October and before Christmas.” How do you achieve the work/home balance? All three ladies agreed that the key is helping each other. “The three of us work as a team and can step in and help with cover when required – you are only as good as your team.”

Madam Spotlight, Beacon House, Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks. HP9 2PE 01494 681143

Ladies, what makes you the proudest about your business to date? Joanna and Marta: “The main thing is what we have managed to achieve so far by ourselves but we couldn’t have done it without Sarah’s invaluable hard work and her shining personality. We believe the key to success is to keep positive at all times.” “We plan to hold many more exciting events in the future so please visit and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up-to-date with all of our news and details of our new collections.”

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What plans do you have for the future and do you envisage Madam Spotlight expanding into other local areas? Joanna and Marta both replied: “We plan to open other branches within the local area to include a boutique for men.”

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A Utensils

Blend, chop, whisk and mash with Smeg’s new retro HBF02 Hand Blender Smeg, the luxury Italian appliance brand, has announced the latest model to join its family of 50s style SDAs – the brand new HBF02 Hand Blender. The Hand Blender has been meticulously crafted to help prepare a versatile range of dishes thanks to its classleading technology and accompanying set of accessories. The blending attachment has been purposely developed to perfectly blitz the trickiest of ingredients. Its unique Flow Blend system, created by the specific dome and shape of the blades, is able to produce an optimal flow which ensures a smooth, even consistency, regardless of whether you are making soups, smoothies, dips, purees and desserts. Fashioned from stainless steel, the arm and blade offer superb strength for quick and efficient blending.

By Claire-Marie McDonnell

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A beginner’s guide

ccording to Wikipedia a kitchen utensil is a small handheld tool used for food preparation. Common kitchen tasks including cutting food to size, blending, and chopping have different utensils available for each task. A general purpose utensil such as a chef’s knife may be used for a variety of foods; but other kitchen utensils can be specialized and may be used only in connection with preparation of a particular type of food, such as an egg separator or an apple corer The number of utensils in a household kitchen varies, some purists favour only the knife while other zealous cooks have cupboards busting at the hinges, with a plethora of tools and gadgets. If like me you’re on the fence, I love my sleek selection of knives, but I’m often found lurking in the basement of a well-known (poignant Christmas ad) department store, you will understand my enthusiasm for any new labour saving device. I find gadget use fairly seasonal; autumn brings out my desire to stew, soup and slow cook. Unfortunately my team of commis chefs, aka my children, are reluctant to help with all the prep required to produce a bubbling vat of goodness. This year, whilst preparing a delicious version of Cock-a-Leekie, with pork, I discovered to my horror that my handheld thingamajig was broken. A cherished gift from my practical mother some 20 years ago, I felt it had had a good innings and swiftly dispensed it to the bin. Dipping my proverbial toe in the water of new handheld blenders, I was delighted to discover that there had been advancements in this area unparalleled to any of the knife! The choice was vast, blenders, choppers, dicers, grinders, mincers, graters and sushi makers…okay I made the last one up but the functions are almost endless. In the end I chose a Smeg, www.smeguk.com, their sturdy craftsmanship and modern designs are complemented by a vast range of colours – I’ll have one of each please. Smeg has packaged these beautifully to appeal to the chef within us all.

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Hygge heaven Exploring this cosy Danish lifestyle and interiors concept

ith the nights drawing in and the weather on the turn, it’s time to do as the Danes do and bring a bit of hygge heaven into your life. Hard to explain, but even harder to pronounce, the Danish word hygee, pronounced ‘hoo-gah’, is all about the art of creating comfort in your home and your life. The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) describes hygee as a “quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being” and it’s been part of the culture in Denmark for the past 200 years. And thanks to hygee, even in the depths of winter when there is very little daylight, Denmark’s inhabitants remain the world’s happiest people. “Hygee is about creating cosy social gatherings with friends, families and loved ones. It’s the feeling of comfort, security and a warm atmosphere. It’s about feeling happy and stress-free, while enjoying the simple pleasures in

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Main picture: Create a sanctuary you can relax in by indulging in a deep-pile carpet in a rustic heather hue www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Insert above left: Lauren Aston’s chunky knit blankets are the epitome of feeling snug. This giant knit blush blanket brings a wow to any room; £250 laurenastondesigns.com Insert above right: ‘Patchwork tartan’ design throw; £74.95, cushion; £39.95 annabeljames.co.uk

Insert below left: Danes love candles and use them morning, noon and night. Stag candle; £11.95 for set of three www.annabeljames.co.uk Insert below right: Lavender and geranium scented candle gift set; £24.95 annabeljames.co.uk

life,” explains Fishpools interior designer Kelly Laird. As daylight is usually in short supply in Denmark, it’s no surprise that flickering candles are essential to make your home more ‘hyggeligt’ (translate: cosy). They not only help make a room smell incredible, but they also evoke a sense of safety and calm – you want to make your home feel like a sanctuary and the exact opposite of the stressful workplace and the bitter chill outside. Choose from huge metallic candle holders, which can light multiple candles at a time, or just one, extravagant scented candle to create the perfect refuge as you drink an indulgent hot chocolate with cream and extra sprinkles. Few things evoke feelings of cosiness and warmth more than a roaring fire, so light a fire if you can and make sure to have big piles of logs at the ready. Warm and chunky knitwear, fluffy throws and huge sofas you can curl up in, all help make up a ‘hygge’ home. They are also a great way to add some personality to your interior design, as a mixture of textures and subtle patterns create that warm, lived-in feel, which is essential to the concept of hygge. But you don’t need to overhaul your interior to make it more hyggeligt – tiny additions can transform any moment. Fill your room with items that bring you joy and lift your mood. It could be a vase of flowers, ornaments, or a piece of art. Artist Yvonne Coomber, whose glittering wildflower paintings epitomise hygge, says: “People write to tell me that my paintings create a happy place in their homes which inspires joy and comfort. I think hygge is a wonderful and achievable concept. “How to create hygge means living for the moment and enjoying the beauty and joy of life.” And even though the Danes claim hygee is in their soul, now we too can get in on the act and embrace this cosy concept. Never forget: the traditional Sunday roast, followed by a walk in the countryside, is a quintessentially hygge experience that we Brits have been doing for years.

Hygee Factfile Hygge contributes to continuously keep Denmark at the top of world-wide happiness and quality of life surveys In 2016, it was included in the list of 10 values to have particularly shaped Danish society by the Ministry of Culture The Danish holiday cottage is the epitome of hygge with more than 200,000 Danes owning their own holiday home The Danes burn more candles per head than anywhere else in Europe

Above: Luxury sofa £1.049 www.michaelmurphy.ie Middle: Cow hide bucket www.thefabulousfleececompany.co.uk Below: Cushions and throws from £39.95 www.annabeljames.co.uk

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The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking (£9.99, Penguin Life) gives practical steps and tips to become more hygge: all backed up by Meik’s years of research at the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen

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The truth about the current temporary relaxation of the planning laws in relation to Conservatories and Extensions

For a free design consultation, expertise and advice with any conservatory or orangery extension with either a lightweight solid roof, double glazed roof or roof lantern light, contact the experts at Hazlemere Window Company on 01628 879244 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk

25 the riverside journals

hilst homeowners can in theory have larger extensions at present, the temporary rules are not a blank cheque and there are still plenty of legalities that need to be adhered to, so before adding an extension make sure you have understood what you can and cannot do before placing an order with an installer, as having something built that exceeds what is permissible under Permitted Development (PD) may end up being a mistake. Most modern housing developments tend to have properties where the PD Rights have been withdrawn by the local planning authority as part of the deal with the developer to allow them to build more houses than would otherwise have been permitted if each new build house had intact PD Rights. According to the PlanningPortal.gov.uk website an extension or addition to your house in England is considered to be permitted development (on properties where these are intact), not requiring an application for planning permission, subject to a whole host of conditions that can be viewed online. The temporary potential increases to the size limits for single-storey rear extensions (which commenced in May 2013) must be fully completed by 30 May 2019, under the associated Neighbourhood Consultation Scheme. Before any homeowner gets too excited, the extra temporary increased extension size limits for conservatories etc. are still subject to planning law, and in practice only going to be permitted if not a single neighbour objects, and your local council agree that your written submission and the professionally drawn plans of your proposals that they require comply with both planning law and the Building Regulations. A downside of the Neighbours Consultation Scheme is that you have to wait 8 weeks for a determination. Plus, if any neighbour objects, your local council is probably only going to allow development if it falls within the limits of Permitted Development (i.e. a maximum of 3m projection from the back of the original rear wall for attached houses and 4m for detached houses). They will then advise you that should you want to have a larger development considered, you will need to submit a full planning application. Consequently, the smart way to go in the first place is to apply for full planning permission should you want to have an extension greater than these sizes, as this immediately saves you 8 weeks, and if done in consultation with your local councils and planning professionals, you’ll stand a far better chance of gaining an approval. The new temporary increases don’t apply to “designated land”, Conservation Areas, Listed Buildings or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If your property is part of a relatively new development, your local council may have withdrawn your PD Rights, which would mean you’d need to submit a planning application even if it was, say, only wanting to add a 3m x 3m conservatory onto the original rear elevation. So before you embark on any extension it is always worth checking your property has sufficient PD Rights still intact to carry out the project you are looking to have done.

(Ann Barr & Peter York’s The Official Sloane Ranger Directory 1984 – Ebany Press). A helpful note about our bath and hand soaps – after use run the tablet under cold water. This helps prevent the soap from softening and will make it last longer.

27 the riverside journals

Geo.F.Trumper are proud to still be recognised as producing sumptuous grooming products for gentlemen.

or over 100 years Trumper have enticed the worldwide traveller to explore the wonders of being surrounded by beautiful mahogany display cases and booths at the flagship Mayfair and St James’s shops. To enjoy being pampered with a shave and hot towel and face massage which will exfoliate the skin and allow the skin to breath. Elegance is the long lasting silkiness of a Trumper clean shaven skin and beautiful styled haircut. To be surrounded by the exquisite and euphoric notes of sumptuous colognes being used to cool your scalp and neck with vibrant notes of many lavish fragrances which hang in the air and surround you; what a wonderful timeless irresistible appeal. Linger amongst the sparking glass showcases and indulge yourself with the bright green bursts of the tangy sharpness of tropical limes, while vibrant citrus flashes allow a gentleman’s mind to surge with the majesty of life, as every pore is infused with the zing and zest of freshly squeezed West Indian limes; or arouse your olfactory senses with the woody warm murmurs and piquant suggestion of pepper from the sumptuous, sultry depths of the sandalwood range. A gift from the prestigious range of Trumper fragrances, toiletries or quality grooming requisites will bring cheer and healthy looking radiance to a gentleman’s skin. To give Trumper is to give pleasure. All grooming products from the exquisite world of Trumper can be finely boxed as a personalised selection or beautifully wrapped. “And so it was that a gift-wrapped box from the world of Trumper transformed a tiresome chore into an eagerly anticipated pleasure each and every morning.” “Henry doesn’t approve of men pampering themselves; but Trumper make lots of manly shampoos, soaps etc. Caro slips them into his stocking.”

28 the riverside journals

Timeless Classics The art of vintage watches

29 the riverside journals

When we talk about Old Masters, images from the great classic painters such as Goya, da Vinci and Raphael fill our minds with richly adorned canvases layered in oils from burnt umber to yellow ochre. Just like fine wines these Old Masters are a few of the things that seem to improve with age. Now it seems â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Old Mastersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cannot simply be reserved for fine art.

30 the riverside journals

ealing in time seems to be a lucrative and specialist trade, reserved for experts rather than enthusiasts. Certainly one can marvel at the significant advancements in the making of watches. Horology – the study of mechanical time-keeping devices – has seen the production of timepieces with innovation comparable to that of the motor industry. Today’s watches focus on the latest technology, they offer refinery coupled with practicable use. One fine example is Omega’s Speedmaster, oozing with spirit and design with a Racing Master Chronometer, based on its classic 1968 model but with better readability and expanded subdials. Meanwhile designers such as Rolex concentrate on the finest raw materials, with every component designed, developed and produced in-house. Their Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 37 is a testimony to their attention to detail. The model features a noble mix of gold and steel, with a dial which is fashioned from 18ct gold. The bracelet is a work of art, the perfect alchemy of form and function, aesthetics and technology, designed to be both robust and comfortable. Watchmaking is certainly a craft, with artisan craftsmen changing our perception of the common wristwatch, and common they certainly were. Less than 100 years ago, no self-respecting gentleman would be caught dead wearing a wristwatch. During this period gentlemen carried pocket watches, with a gold half-hunter being the preferred status symbol of the time. Wristlets, as they were called, were reserved for women, and considered more of a passing fad than a serious timepiece. In fact, they were held in such disdain that many gentlemen were actually quoted to say they “would sooner wear a skirt as wear a wristwatch”. Many fine horologists considered the watch to be inferior. Because of their size, few believed wristlets could be made to achieve any level of accuracy, nor could they withstand the basic rigors of human activity. Therefore, very few companies produced them in quantity, with the vast majority of those being small ladies’ models, with delicate fixed wire or chain-link bracelets. However, there seemed to be a shift change in the 19th century, when soldiers discovered their usefulness during wartime situations. The wristwatch became a vital part of the kit due to its easy use (far less fiddly than a pocket watch). It is believed that Girard-Perregaux equipped the German Imperial Navy with similar pieces as early as the 1880s, which they wore on their wrists while synchronizing naval attacks, and firing artillery. So it seems that the wristwatch, essential part of the military kit list, was a functional item. One must then ask how it became such a coveted finely crafted piece of art. Even with their success in combat, the popularity of the wristwatch was still limited to ladies’ models. They didn’t reach the mainstream market until some two decades later, when soldiers from around the world converged on Europe to help defeat the German Empire in WWI (1914-1918). Due to the strategic lessons learned in the Boer War, the demand for reliable, accurate wristwatches was now at its peak. Wristwatches were no longer considered a novelty but were now a wartime necessity, and companies were scrambling to keep up with the demand. One company that enjoyed success during this time was Wilsdorf & Davis Ltd, founded in 1905 and later renamed The Rolex Watch Company Ltd in 1915. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder and director of Rolex, was a pioneer of wristwatches. While others scoffed at them, Wilsdorf continued to experiment with their accuracy and reliability. Thus, some would argue that he did more for their advancement than anyone in history. Rolex first concentrated on the quality of the movements. The relentless quest for chronometric precision rapidly led to success. In 1910, a Rolex watch was the first wristwatch in the world to receive the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision, granted by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne.

Today classic timepieces, carefully sculpted by craftsmen, have now become the new collector’s choice.

The following few decades saw watch companies slowly add additional models to their catalogues, and by the mid-1930s they accounted for 65 percent of all watches exported by Switzerland. Thus began the art of watchmaking. Watchmakers such as Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Patek Phillipe and Jaeger-LeCoultre led the way in refining wristwatches. Whilst practicality was always at the forefront of the wristwatch, attention to detail, quality components, superior technology and the finest craftsmanship gradually became equally meaningful. Choosing a timepiece that accomplishes the same function as using a more complicated older mechanical technology, a premium quartz technology that is marginally more precise, in a casing with highly refined detailing or of precious metal, or bearing the design hallmarks of a famous maker, are all values that exist only to bring personal and intellectual satisfaction and enjoyment – in other words, jewellery value. The truth is that the value of jewellery is entirely emotional. Spending over £100 on the price of a watch is buying you only more jewellery value and greater emotional satisfaction in having something more unique – nothing more.

The real value of a vintage watch The truth is that anything is collectible if someone wants to collect it. Some of the most valuable collections were items that people had no idea would be valuable in the future. Collectability can be subjective but it is also hugely influenced by other factors such as provenance, celebrity and media. Collectability is usually defined by a watch’s condition, originality, rarity and most importantly, story. For anyone thinking of investing in a classic timepiece there are some important considerations: Brand reputation is important: Learn about the reputation of the watch manufacturer, read all you can about the brand history. There are many websites offering insider knowledge on the most respected brands. Resale value: It is easy for buyers to lose money on purchase decisions based on poorly understood measures of “high resale” value. The dealer: Where you shop is crucial. Research the dealer, ask on forums and check out blogs for recommendations. Many dealers will have stores founded some time ago, with experienced staff that can assist in your search. Know your onions: Some of the finest brands of watchmakers are not as well heard of as, say, Rolex or Tag Heuer. It is far more beneficial for you to research all your options instead of blindly selecting among the few brands that are ‘household names’. Brand history: While many brands trace their heritage back 100 years or more, it is worth considering a number of more modern brands bearing fine names with equally rich origins. Watch movement: Unless you are an expert, connoisseur or collector, do not worry too much about the details of the movement inside a watch beyond whether it is a) quartz, b) certified mechanical (Chronometer), or c) non-certified mechanical.

Buying a vintage can be costly, but it should also be rewarding, and now you know what makes a great watch and why some watches command such status, respect – and price-tags. Is it time for you to take the plunge? Sell the car, downsize the house, and treat your wrist to a master of time?

By Claire-Marie McDonnell

31 the riverside journals

Price: Price is only one measure of the value of your timepiece, however unless you have an infinite budget this is vital when choosing your watch.

One Whitehall Place

New Years Eve Black Tie Dinner Dance One Whitehall Place is located on Victoria Embankment with stunning views over the River Thames and London Eye. It is an elegant Victorian style venue with high ceilings, a dedicated entrance, doormen in top hats, a grand marble staircase and glittering chandeliers. With some of the most magnificent views over the Thames, One Whitehall Place’s Black Tie Dinner Dance is the only place to celebrate the New Year in indulgent luxury and style!

Package at £395.00 per person • Glass of Champagne and canapés on arrival • 7 course fine dining dinner followed by freshly brewed coffee and mince pies • Unlimited house wine, beer and soft drinks during dinner • Celebrate with a glass of Champagne at Midnight • View of the firework display through our floor to ceiling windows

To book please call 020 7451 9386 or email christmas.royalhorseguards@guoman.co.uk One Whitehall Place at The Royal Horseguards Hotel, 2 Whitehall Court, Whitehall, London, SW1A 2EJ

To Gin or not to Gin t seems like everyone I know is drinking gin and I can’t remember how or when this happened! Last week I went to our local pub and offered to buy a bottle of wine but my offer was turned down in favour of four gin and tonics. At a recent BBQ I was offered a gin and tonic on arrival instead of the usual prosecco. In fact I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t being offered or accepting a gin and tonic and for once I’m convinced it’s not because of my age! So when exactly did all this happen and gin start taking over our drinking habits? Gin had been around and popular for years. In fact, it first became popular in the back streets of London in the 17th century. The wealthier classes were drinking Genever, a newly imported drink from the Netherlands, but the poorer classes made a cheaper alternative which became known as gin. Gin was scorned by London’s elite until the 19th century when new and glamorous gin palaces opened which became fashionable with anyone who could afford to visit them. Gin gained its partner – tonic – when it started its journey around the world as the drink favoured by the British Empire because it was thought that the quinine in the tonic acted as an anti-malarial agent. However, it was in the 1920s that saw gin reach the heights of glamour and fashion when it was adopted by society’s ‘Bright Young Things’ as the choice for parties and social occasions. In the 1960s the gin and tonic started to lose its fashion status. Gin’s fans were getting older as young people turned their attention to a cool new spirit: vodka. Several vodka brands were launched with slick advertising campaigns that made Swinging Sixties’ teenagers abandon traditions and follow new crazes. For decades gin would languish unloved in the back of your mum and dad’s cocktail cabinets as most of the Victorian distillers either moved out of London, sold up or closed down. But, Oh how fashion comes round again and again! Gin shops and distilleries have opened up all over London and other towns and cities outside London. A wonderful range of gins and different flavoured tonics adorn gin bars, hotels and pubs and if I’m honest maybe there are a few too many on show in my kitchen. But then I adore a really cold refreshing gin and tonic. I enjoy experimenting with different flavours and different tonics and I’m so glad there is such choice and quality to choose from. But what about those poor souls who don’t like gin – what should they drink? My advice would be to learn to love it, join in and embrace the gin culture.

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By Claire Quirk

DINE 100FT ABOVE LONDON

Enjoy delicious seasonal British dishes for lunch and dinner, cocktails on the terrace and live jazz every Tuesday. t 0207 368 3993 e babylon@roofgardens.virgin.com www.roofgardens.virgin.com @Babylon_London

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botanicals botanicals andand creating creating thisthis delightful delightful gin.gin. Make Make your your wayway over over to to www.mrhobbsgin.com www.mrhobbsgin.com andand discover discover more more about about MrMr Hobbs Hobbs family family tipple. tipple.

HENLEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FIRST HIGHLY SPIRITED GIN In 1870 Mr Harry Hobbs was renowned throughout Henley for his flamboyant nature and home-distilled gin. Recently, the Hobbs family have brought the spirit of Harry back by sourcing local botanicals and creating this delightful gin. Make your way over to www.mrhobbsgin.com and discover more about Mr Hobbs family tipple.

Available to buy online today at www.mrhobbsgin.com @mrhobbsgin @mrhobbsgin @MrHobbsGin @MrHobbsGin

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The Rajdoot

Esd.1964

Indian Restaurant

Tel: 020 7486 2055/020 3581 9760 info@therajdootindian.com www.therajdootindian.com 49 Paddington Street, Marylebone, London W1U 4HW

The Raymond Blanc Cookery School is one of the only ‘schools’ in the world to offer visitors the chance to watch, learn and practise in the kitchens of a twoMichelin starred restaurant. The autumn Seasonal Dinner Party Course reveals how to entertain guests with minimal effort and maximum effect with great ideas for simple, seasonal dishes that are sure to impress friends and family. There will be six to eight dishes demonstrated, including three that guests will prepare from scratch. Prices for a day start from £365 per person. www.belmond.com/le-manoir-aux-quat-saisons-oxfordshire/cookery_courses Apple tart ‘maman blanc’

Introduction A very easy soup, which has lots of richness and flavour. The success of this dish depends very much on the variety of the pumpkin. The best I have found is ‘Potiron Muscade’, which is quite large, relatively flat, with dark brown skin and very pronounced curves. In my opinion, this is the best variety to make the soup. You can replace the pumpkin with butternut squash and should you wish you could serve this soup with a generous serving of crème fraiche. This soup can be prepared one day in advance.

Introduction Simply the best apple tart…here, we have used apples, but plums or cherries would be equally delicious.

Serves (Yield): 4 Preparation time: 20 mins Cooking time: 20 minutes

For the pastry: 250g 125g 1x 1x 1g / 1 pinch

Plain flour Butter, unsalted, diced, at room temperature Egg, organic, free range, medium Egg yolk Sea salt

For the filling 2-3 mixed together 10g / 2tsp

Cox’s, Worcester or Braeburn apples, peeled, cored and cut into wedges about 6mm thick. 30g /2 tbsp Butter, unsalted, melted 15ml / 1 tbsp Lemon juice 30g / 2 tbsp Caster sugar 15ml / 1 tbsp Calvados (optional) Caster sugar for dusting

Ingredients 400g Ripe pumpkin flesh, outer skin removed & diced 2cm 200g / 1 small Onions, chopped finely 40g / 2 tbsp Butter, unsalted 8g / 8 pinches Sea salt ½g / 1 pinch White pepper, freshly ground 6g / 6 pinches Sugar, caster 300ml Milk, whole, organic 300ml Water Crème fraiche optional Method On medium heat, in a 25cm saucepan, soften the onions in the butter for approximately 5 minutes without colouring. Add the diced pumpkin and soften for approximately 6-8 minutes (the softening with the butter will bring out the sweet flavour of the pumpkin) stirring from time to time. Add the milk & water and bring to simmering point and simmer for 10 minutes (*1). Liquidize the soup until it reaches a smooth velvety consistency. Season with salt, pepper and caster sugar if needed. Serve in a warm soup tureen with a touch of crème fraiche if desired. Chef ’s Notes *1 If you boil the milk too long it will separate, so cook very gently. Variations A couple of tablespoons of Kirsch (Cherry alcohol) boiled for 2 seconds is a classic addition. Some grilled croutons topped with Gruyère cheese would be a delicious accompaniment. Toasted pumpkin seeds or hazelnuts can also be added to the dish. Finely chopped chives also add a little colour and texture.

Serves (Yield): 8 Preparation time: 40 mins Cooking time: 30 mins Special equipment: 2cm x 18cm Pastry ring Ingredients

Method For the pastry: In a large bowl, rub together the flour, butter and salt using your fingertips until it becomes sandy in texture. Create a well in the centre and add the egg. Work the flour and butter mixture into the egg, then press together to form a ball. Lightly flour your work surface and knead with the palms of your hands until the pastry is consistently blended for 30 seconds. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Lining the pastry ring: Pre-heat the oven to 210°C. Roll the pastry out to a thickness of 2 mm. Line the pastry ring with the pastry. Place on a tray lined with greaseproof paper and reserve in the fridge for 20 minutes to relax the pastry. For the filling: Lay the apple segments, tightly packed, into the base of the tart case. Brush with the melted butter, sugar and lemon juice, dust liberally with caster sugar and place in the pre-heated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes brush the apples once again with the melted butter, sugar and lemon juice and continue to cook for a further 10 minutes until the pastry becomes a light sandy colour and the apples soften and caramelize. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before sprinkling with icing sugar and serving.

37 the riverside journals

Ironbark pumpkin soup

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Festive and beautiful Christmas tablescapes: ideas and inspiration from Robert Welch

nce the countdown to Christmas begins, your dining room table becomes a key focal point in the home; lots of family dinners and friendly get-togethers make it THE season for entertaining. Renowned British designers Robert Welch, who have been at the very heart of the British table for over six decades, have released their Christmas styling tips and beautiful tablescapes to inspire your place settings this Christmas, along with hints on how to achieve the ‘look’ at home. As each small table detail makes the magical difference to your seasonal dining look, Robert Welch has everything you need to provide the perfect centrepiece or finishing touch that will make this Christmas, one to remember. Here, Robert Welch give you their top three dining trends to help you style Christmas your way, whether you prefer a more traditional or modern setting:

Scandinavian Chic The RW2 cutlery collection is an essential for your modern Scandinavian style and more unconventional Christmas – perhaps those that don’t have their turkey and all the trimmings! Create a warm and understated tablescape with a rustic and wintery feel by completing the look with a scattering of pinecones or fragrant cinnamon sticks, along with dark blue or teal accents and copper accentuating pieces for an elegant finish. Available in a bright or satin finish, with soft concave detailing on each handle, the RW2 set is the perfect table addition for those looking to add contemporary luxury to their Christmas dining experience. Re-create this look at home with the RW2 Satin Cutlery Set. Available in a 24-84 piece set. RRP £135-£420.

The Homemade Table The Hidcote cutlery collection is the perfect pairing for the homemade table. For those who enjoy a more traditional, personal Christmas, bring foliage to the table with red and green accent colours, and include all your handmade Christmas treats; place settings tied with ribbon and a wreath or garland to dress the centre of the table. The soft and comfortable grip and curves of the Hidcote cutlery collection lends itself to plum-colour accents, sprigs of holly and mistletoe, and all that captures Christmas for a stylish and simple tablescape. Re-create this look at home with the Limited Edition Hidcote 30pc set which comes with six free steak knives. RRP £84. Clove tea light holder, set of 3. RRP £46.

The third sees the Radford cutlery collection (the most extensive from the Robert Welch range) for those who wish for an opulent Christmas setting. The ultimate celebration, and the excuse to use all your finery. For those who love to impress, Radford cutlery is a classic design made of the highest quality 18/10 stainless steel and available with a Silver Plated finish. Think golds, beautiful glassware and a room drenched in candlelight for a warm and awe-inspiring Christmas dining experience. Pair with warming notes of nutmeg, the amazing scent of a bowl full of fresh oranges, and a sprinkling of Christmas cranberries to surround your guests with luxury. Re-create this look at home with the Radford Bright Cutlery set. Available in a 16-84 piece set. RRP £90-£420. Radford Napkin ring, set of 2. RRP £11. Clove tea light holder, set of 3. RRP £17. Robert Welch offers a unique range of British designed cutlery, kitchen knives, utensils and tableware. To find out more, please visit www.robertwelch.com

39 the riverside journals

Seasonal Opulence

MOROCCAN, MEDITERRANEAN, MEZZE BAR & RESTAURANT

RESTAURANT M O R O C C A N , M E D I T E R R A N E A N , MMOROCCAN, E Z Z E BMEDITERRANEAN, A R & R E SMEZZE T A UBAR R A&N T

An infusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan food with vibrant colours and flavours. Our mouthwatering food is freshly prepared daily by expert chefs know a thing or two Anwho infusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan food with vibrant colours andas flavours. about Moroccan and Mediterranean food An infusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan food with vibrant colours and flavours. Our mouthwatering food is freshly prepared they have worked in restaurants in Windsor forprepared Our mouthwatering food isafreshly Our daily by expert chefs who know thing daily mouthwatering by expert chefs whofood knowisa freshly thing or prepared two more than 20 years.daily by expert chefs who know a thing or two An infusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan food with vibrant colours and flavours.

about Moroccan and Mediterranean food as or two about Moroccan and Mediterranean food as they have about Moroccan and Mediterranean food as they have in worked in restaurants in Windsor for “No wonder locals have they have worked in restaurants in Windsor for worked restaurants in Windsor for more than 20 years. An infusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan more than 20 years.

more than 20 years. warmed to the place,

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warmed to the place, despite thethefact that Meimo is much more Marrakech thanMarrakech Windsor” is much more warmed to place,

A family restaurant run by Abdul and Amina Aitbenmoussa

OurCampion mouthwatering food is freshly prepared Windsor” despite the fact thatCharles Meimo writing in than Casual Dining Magazine is much more Marrakech Charles is much more Marrakech daily by expert chefs whoCampion know writing athan thing or two Windsor” than Windsor” in Casual Dining Magazine Charles Campion writing Lunch Menu about Moroccan and Mediterranean food Charles Campion writing in Casual Diningas Magazine 2 courses £11.95 • 1 course £8.95 in Casual DiningMoroccan Magazine theystyle have worked in £restaurants in Windsor for 3 course meal 27.95 despite the fact that Meimo

Book more early tothan avoid20 disappointment years. 69-70, Peascod St69-70, Peascod St 69-70 Peascod “No Street, Windsor, West have Berkshire SL4 1DESL4 Windsor, West1DE Berkshire SL4 1DE Windsor, West Berkshire wonder locals 69-70, Peascod01753 St 862222 www.meimo.co.uk 01753 862222 www.meimo.co.uk

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www.meimo.co.uk 01753 862222 www.meimo.co.uk despite the fact that Meimo is much more Marrakech than Windsor” Charles Campion writing Let us make your home or in Casual Dining Magazine

69-70, Peascod St Windsor, West Berkshire SL4 1DE

01753 862222 www.meimo.co.uk

business special this Christmas We specialise only in Christmas and provide a full design, install, removal and storage service ensuring your Christmas is free from hassle. Contacts us Now at: Dave (All other areas): 01753 670012 dave.hill@thechristmasdecorators.com Shobhna (Central London): 0203 318 2161 shobhna@thechristmasdecorators.com

www.thechristmasdecorators.co.uk

My name is Sarah, I am a fully qualified and fully insured Wedding Planner and Events Manager. I have been planning weddings and events for many years. I offer vairious wedding planning and event management services in and around London and across the UK. My prices are very competitive and if you find a better deal from other event management companies I will try and beat it! I can cater for weddings, special occasions, parties or events. Whether your budget is large or small, I can create that perfect, memorable day for you! Whatever your dreams are, I can turn them into a reality! From the very first point of contact, I will be with you every step of the way right until the very end. Making sure you have that perfect day, that your guests will be talking about for a long time to come! If you want to have a bespoke, memorable, wedding or event. Then give me a call or send me an email to discuss all your needs and requirments, so I can take all your stress away and you can just relax and enjoy every moment!!! 07729368808 sarah@dreamsweddingsandevents.co.uk www.dreamsweddingsandevents.co.uk Facebook: /dreamsweddingsandevents Twitter: @DWELondon

Richmond TW10 5AL • Tel 07454022243 www.bennicarolphotography.com

Breathtaking outdoor civil ceremonies • Personal professional and flexible approach Intimate candlelit indoor weddings and receptions • Brand new bridal preparation area ‘The Nook’ Superior quality sound and lighting • Unrivalled bride and groom crash pad • wood fired oven W W W. T H E T Y T H E B A R N . C O . U K • T E L : 0 1 8 6 9 3 2 1 4 4 2

Wedding Gifts Panic or Pleasure?

By Claire Quirk

43 the riverside journals

n mid-September my niece is marrying her handsome young man in a festival themed wedding on the Isle of White and I am really looking forward to it as it will be less formal and more relaxed than the other three weddings I’ve been a guest at this year. However, there is still the stress of the wedding gift minefield to navigate before I can truly enjoy the day itself. Selecting a gift for the bride and groom is as traditional as cutting the cake or watching the first dance but the gifts themselves are no longer as traditional. Most couples today have lived together before their special day and have an overflowing bottom draw. Over the years the etiquette surrounding wedding gift giving and receiving has shifted to reflect changes in society but this has just made things harder for both the bride and groom and the wedding guest. The most important thing of all is to give a gift, even if the happy couple have said no gifts on the invitation. You have been invited to the wedding because you are important to them and surely you would want to give them something to mark the occasion or to help them on their way. Most couples write a list that is shared on line and can be managed by a shop but it is becoming more common to ask for financial contributions to honeymoons, mortgage funds or other events. My niece has covered all options with the John Lewis list but also a range of other options for cash donations. However, they have been very thoughtful and offered a range of gifts that would suit different budgets. Knowing how much to spend can be an additional dilemma, but the simplest idea is to spend what you can afford. If there is nothing on the wedding list that you can afford then just buy something else. In fact, this year I have brought three gifts from the wedding lists and I haven’t enjoyed buying or gifting any one of them so this time I really want to buy my niece something that I would enjoy giving. I don’t want to offer money towards the honeymoon or choose something from the list because I really want to give them something that reflects me and demonstrates my relationship with them. Something that they’ll keep and I can share in for years to come. Of course, there’s always the danger that they won’t like it but then given enough thought and care the gift will be something that gives us all pleasure. So, after much thought I have chosen something that reflects our family love of cooking and food and chosen them a fantastic food processer and luckily it was on the wedding list! A final thought: if you want to avoid ‘the list’ and personalise your gift then why not visit www.theartisanhouse.co.uk.

ÂŠ James Grist Photography

Discover a beautiful and historic location in the heart of Essex Braxted Park is said to be one of the most beautiful venues in Essex, rich in histor y and surrounded by breathtaking views across the estate, we are truly what wedding memories are made of.

braxtedparkweddings.co.uk 01621 770855 | Braxted Park Estate, Witham, Essex CM8 3EN

Maid for Them

“Always the bridesmaid, never the bride”,

45 the riverside journals

my friend would mutter as she struggled into the umpteenth, unflattering confection of chiffon and headed in the direction of yet another church. And there she would stand, alongside two or three other bridesmaids, supportive of the bride, smiling brightly yet dreading the resulting photographs. For they would detail bridesmaids, dressed in the same, sometimes unflattering, colour and style, irrespective of their body shape, size and colouring. Of course, there was always the one bridesmaid who suited the proffered offering, and every bridesmaid willed it to be her, but it was a lottery that was rarely won. How times change. Today, the Go to Gals, formerly referred to as bridesmaids, have hit the jackpot. Anything goes so long as the bride concurs. It is now all about individual style; choosing an ensemble that complements the bride as well as her ‘squad’. An apt name that reflects the military like precision involved in the organisation of a wedding and the trend towards more bridesmaids rather than less. However, the more bridesmaids one has, the more decisions to make and the more egos to placate. And what a choice there is. From jumpsuits to romantic glamourous gowns, flowing or fitted silhouettes, clashing prints, soft pastels, vibrant colours, tulle skirts, cashmere cardigans, florals, vintage or both, there is a look available to suit every style and shape. One bridesmaid may choose to wear a halter neck, while another may choose strapless and yet another, backless. The bridal party can accommodate all. Versatility is key as is choosing a style to suit each person’s body shape and colouring. Dress lengths may vary from mini to maxi and in between. Even though a colour may be chosen as a theme to co-ordinate, different shades may be worn to complement skin tones. No colour is taboo, including black, which I imagine could look quite striking depending on the time of year and day worn. Looking at photographs from a local wedding I noticed the bridesmaids were all wearing mix and match separates in shades of white and grey. One of the bridesmaids informed me that, although sisters, they were all different sizes and shapes. Separates were the obvious choice and if desired could be worn independently again. Although fashions change, the duties of the bridesmaids remain the same. The chief bridesmaid’s role is to maintain a calming influence and offer emotional and practical support to the bride. The other bridesmaids support her in this to ensure the day runs smoothly. Duties may include helping with pre-wedding tasks, being available to run last minute errands on the day, introducing guests to each other and dancing the first dance with the groomsmen. Bridesmaids can graciously accomplish all this and more, safe in the knowledge that whatever they chose to wear, it will look as though it was made for them. So, let the weddings begin and the compliments, along with champagne, flow.

Stoke Park Wedding Stoke WeddingShowcase Showcase SUNDAY15TH 15TH OCTOBER OCTOBER 2017 - 3:00PM SUNDAY 201710:30AM 10:30AM - 3:00PM Stoke Park’s Palladian Mansion is truly one of the most breathtaking

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An intimate event showcasing Stoke Park as a Wedding venue along with a selection of suppliers and our Wedding Co-ordinator on hand to answer An prestigious intimate event showcasing Stoke Park as a Wedding venue along any withquestions. a selection of

prestigious suppliers and our Wedding Co-ordinator on hand to answer any questions.

Entry from 10:30am until 3pm with Champagne and Canapés on arrival. There’s no entry fee, however we request you book your place, so please RSVP to mconnelly@stokepark.com Entry from 10:30am until 3pm with Champagne and Canapés on arrival. There’s no entry fee, however by 14th October 2017

we request you book your place, so please RSVP to mconnelly@stokepark.com by 14th October 2017 info@stokepark.com

01753 717171

www.stokepark.com

Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG

info@stokepark.com

01753 717171

www.stokepark.com

Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG

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Luxury resale booming amongst HNWIs & super-rich ahead of London Fashion Week

f you’re looking to get your hands on rare designer goods ahead of London Fashion Week, there’s no better time than the present. That is, according to ‘Cudoni’, a premium service dedicated to helping busy people sell their pre-owned luxury goods. They claim that the city’s high-net-worth-individuals and super-rich are clearing out their closets just in time for the biggest event in the fashion calendar. “It makes sense” the founder of Cudoni, James HarfordTyrer stated. “It’s a new season and people want the most current items available. Fashion week creates a change in the air, and people want to be ahead of the curve.” This statement is clearly reflected by their customer-base, which has seen a sevenfold increase in number since the brand re-launch in May of 2017. From fashion to accessories and tech gadgets, there are gems to be found in the Cudoni vaults. Rare luxury goods, such as the iconic Hermès Birkin bag and an exclusive Patek Philippe Nautilus watch worth five figures. According to Cudoni, this has boosted average basket values by 300% over the summer. Other luxuries include a classic Burberry Prorsum trench coat in heart print, Gucci Marmont metallic gold pumps and a custom Chanel clutch bag. James spoke of their recent success in glowing terms: “It’s fantastic to see how far we’ve come in just a few months. Demand has been unprecedented; we’ve had to hire several new team members and source private warehouses to store incoming stock.” “August especially has been a record month, with people making space for next season’s trends ahead of Fashion Week. They’re also selling more; average basket sizes have increased by 40%.” Harford-Tyrer credits Cudoni’s success to the VIP service offered to all who join and the company’s ability to generate higher earnings for its customers, an average of 30% more than they would find if they sold items on their own. He adds: “As schedules fill up with responsibilities, people have less time and patience for sifting through sales platforms and uploading information about products. We’ve found this is especially true amongst London’s super-wealthy.” “Simultaneously, there is a raised awareness and dedication to sustainable living. It’s not just the thrill of the sale, people also want to lessen their environmental impact.” It seems clear then, that as the summer draws to a close and Fashion Week looms, people will be increasingly eager to make a change. We wish Cudoni every success during this period, as they sell many more exciting items on behalf of their clients. After all, there is only so much space in one wardrobe.

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hakra balancing is a beautiful and natural healing method which serves to align and balance you in a gentle and non-invasive way. The word Chakra is derived from the Sanskrit language and literally translates as “wheel” or “circle”. Chakras are regarded as energy centres and points of spiritual power. A practical way to view the chakras is as meeting points between the mind and body or the physical and spiritual. There are seven main chakra points located along the midline of the body. Each chakra has an attachment to separate body areas, including glands and organs. Although chakras do not have a physical form, they do have an effect upon the organ systems within the body. Each chakra can be seen as an energetic gateway, transmitting, receiving or in the case of Chakra Balancing, replenishing life-force energy into or out of the body. The body’s job is to maintain the balance and free-flow of this life-energy, however with today’s fast-paced lifestyle, the chakra system is constantly changing in response to the joys and stresses of everyday life. Since our body, mind and soul are intimately connected, an imbalance in one area will not only impact the functions associated with its own related chakras, but will also have far-reaching effects on all other chakras. Therefore during Chakra Balancing, depleted energy is released and life-energy is replenished within the depleted chakras. This ensures optimal flow and even distribution of energy is created throughout each chakra, resulting in balance and powerful healing.

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was delighted to be asked to wear, and review, a pair of loafers made by Duke & Dexter. Duke & Dexter are a British born footwear label, specialising in premium loafers for those who appreciate modern, functional and spirited apparel. Designed in London and handcrafted in England, they always put comfort and style first and foremost. There is the option to buy on trend or design your own with their bespoke service which gives you lots of choice, check out the website for more details on that. Since launching in 2014, they have received international recognition, selling to over 100 countries worldwide, alongside reputable retailers including Liberty’s, Fenwick and Selfridges and Harrods in the UK. They also have a celebrity following with some of the more hip and trendy names in the business who all proudly sport their Duke & Dexter loafers. Each Duke & Dexter shoe is handmade in Sheffield, England. D&D believe that on top of exceptional quality, there is a unique charm and authenticity that comes from traditionally handcrafted products and that comes to life when you slip on a pair. I went for the Tobacco Tassel loafer and you can feel the quality as soon as you wear them; they may be my first pair of D&D’s but they won’t be my last and I particularly love the ‘Handmade in England’ stamp on the sole.

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Jewellery Pairing Vintage and Modern Pieces

ntique jewellery may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking of the latest fashion trends, but Lynn Lindsay is here to show us what we might be missing. A proprietor of Wimpole Antiques she specialises in wearable period jewellery from 1790 to 1970, and according to her expertise – mixing antique jewellery with modern pieces is becoming an increasingly popular fashion trend. “Antique jewellery is becoming increasingly fashionable with earrings the most popular, but we’re also finding that in particular, young women are increasingly drawn to antique engagement rings. “Pairing antique jewellery with modern pieces is the most notable trend we are seeing. It is very versatile and plays to the individual taste. We see clients who may purchase and wear an antique choker with a modern chain alongside it, an antique ring paired with a modern ring with similar colours and same sort of stones, or even a modern watch with an antique chain paired with it, for example. “We’re also seeing new trends in how women wear jewellery. Most of the clients we see at Wimpole Antiques are buying pieces of jewellery that are versatile pieces that they can wear in the day through to the evening. “That being said, there is most definitely a trend in antique jewellery being passed down through the generations also, being passed from mother to daughter, for example. Often, if a client has two daughters, as an example, it is likely that they would buy two pieces that they would like to see become family heirlooms gifted to each of their daughters. These pieces are unique and so it differs from person to person as to how they wear these pieces – be it for every day or for special occasions. Wimpole Antiques will be exhibiting this year at the acclaimed Winter Art & Antiques Fair Olympia. Running from 31st October until 5th November, it is the flagship art and antiques event in the British winter season and is the perfect destination for those looking for a varied collection of high quality jewellery from the distant past to the present day. Featuring pieces from distinguished names such as Teresa Diniz, Anthea A G Antiques Ltd, A Rakyan Collection Ltd, Horton, John Joseph and including Wimpole Antiques, the Fair offers an unrivalled selection of rings, broaches, necklaces and watches to suit all tastes.

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Antique jewellery – family heirlooms or an up-and-coming fashion trend? by Lynn Lindsay of Wimpole Antiques www.wimpoleantiques.co.uk, who will be exhibiting at The Winter Art & Antiques Fair Olympia

Cliveden Estate Outdoor art exhibition by contemporary artist Bernar Venet on display until mid-October 2017 When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

nationaltrust.org.uk/Cliveden ÂŠ National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography ÂŠ National Trust Images\Courtesy the Artist and Blain|Southern, Photo: Jonty Wilde.

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Taplow, Berkshire, SL6 0JF Tel: 01628 607107 Reservations@clivedenhouse.co.uk www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

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Sculptures by Bernar Venet Internationally renowned artist Bernar Venet exhibits sculptures at the National Trust’s Cliveden in Buckinghamshire this summer

For opening times and further details www.nationatrust.org.uk/cliveden or telephone 01628 605069

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©Courtesy the Artist and BlainSouthern, Photos Jonty Wilde

he series of 10 sculptures, by the artist considered the world’s greatest living French sculptor, is being exhibited in the historic grade 1 listed gardens until mid-October. This significant installation marks the first outdoor exhibition of Venet’s work in the UK since 1976, and the unveiling of a brand new piece for 2017; Seven Leaning Straight Lines. Venet has an insatiable curiosity and desire to push both his own limits and the frontiers of art. Mathematical investigations of chance and chaos provide the starting point for his distinctive outdoor steel sculptures that explore variations on the simple line. The project is part of the National Trust’s ‘Trust New Art Programme’, an initiative established in 2009 to bring contemporary art to the places in the Trust’s care. The National Trust is working in partnership with international gallery Blain Southern to bring these impressive works of art to Cliveden. Venet’s large-scale 9-metre high sculptures are afforded the space they need to be appreciated in Cliveden’s designed landscape. There’s a dynamic tension between the angular geometry of the formal gardens and the soaring arcs and bars of the solid steel structures. Cliveden’s Head Gardener, Andrew Mudge, is interested in how the sculptures will reconnect Cliveden’s visitors with some key viewpoints in the landscape and the existing sculpture collection. Oonagh Kennedy, Cliveden Curator said: “Cliveden’s owners have all been great patrons of the arts. All have embraced the new in the pursuit of edifying the setting of Cliveden. From the Duke of Buckingham’s theatrical setting for his mansion house and the Duchess of Sutherland’s pioneering carpet bedding, to William Waldorf Astor’s extravagant Waldo Story sculpture, Cliveden’s owners have viewed themselves at the forefront of contemporary taste. They operated at an international level and we are continuing this work.” Running alongside the new contemporary art exhibition is ‘The Shock of the New’, 19th century style. This is a short, self-led tour exploring some of Cliveden’s most controversial sculptures. Lord Astor was an avid collector of relics and brought many interesting sculptures to Cliveden, such as The Shell Fountain, also known as The Fountain of Love. He put this impressive piece at the end of the Grand Avenue, prime position to greet visitors as they arrived. The works of Bernar Venet are available to view until mid-October 2017. The exhibition is included within Cliveden’s normal admission price. The ‘Summer of Bernar Venet’ includes a retrospective exhibition of Bernar’s work at Blain Southern’s gallery in London in June along with the unveiling of a brand new sculpture in Regent’s Park.

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PATRICK FAURE-SPINETTA A Private View

Wednesday 11th October 2017 6-8pm

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An unexpected journey into a philosophic state of mind

atrick Faure welcomes us into his warm London apartment which is adorned with his paintings. There is no mistaking it: you enter an artist’s personal space. His eyes sparkle with intellect and his passion for drawing and painting is palpable. He takes us straight to his studio which has sketches on the floor and paintings pinned on the wall. He is working on one of his trademark American Indian portraits, as well as one of his stunning racing car paintings and a very large oil on canvas which takes up most of the back wall. This is the crux of Patrick’s work: the cars are inspired and informed by his childhood lived in Monaco, where he saw his first race at the age of four; the American Indians idea was developed by his life in Arizona, when he started a series on portraits of Civil War generals. A show in Frankfurt would make him develop this theme by progressing into his now renowned Indian oil paintings He has probably done over a 150 of these and used to have a two-year waiting list. He is so prolific, the car and portrait we are looking at were only started simultaneously in the early hours of the morning and they are already well advanced. Patrick’s real artistic passion is surrealism: inspired by his vast knowledge of philosophy, his love for myths and history, all his surrealist work is full of anecdotes: nothing is left to chance, it is all cleverly orchestrated. He is not frightened to open his mind to philosophers and writers such as Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre, Franz Kafka, Plato as well as his ‘bible’, ‘the Odyssey’ by Homer. He uses their words to inspire his paint strokes; one sentence from any of these authors can be the catalyst for a whole piece of work. He uses a 15th century Flemish technique of working on a white background and using thin layers of oil paints, going from light to dark to make the light hit each layer and reveal form, shape, light and shade. I look at his masterpieces and see striking bodies on canvas or paper: ambiguous naked female forms or male torsos, intertwined in metal masks or extending arms adorned with wings all so full of energy and sometime menace. They lure me into their grip and make me ask the question, like Sartre once said: ‘Why are we here?’ I believe that is what Patrick is also trying to find out through his art and I can tell that he is also moved by Greek and Roman history; his oil paintings, watercolours and drawings often refer to them: a Babylonian dragon here, a horse head there all used as a means of expressiveness. The work can sometimes be uncomfortable and even a little shocking. Often the colour palette adds to the discomfort such as the use of vivid reds. However, it can also be subtle for his hyper realist reflective work. The vegetation is always Monegasque and gold can be used to inject some sense of wealth. Pencil details of the date of the work in astrological signs can also be spied here and there: the work is a real world of discovery; I am soon sucked into it. Patrick is extremely talented with a mind in constant effervescence: he speaks six languages (French, English, Italian, Russian, German and Spanish). He used to be a Colonel in the American Army and currently holds the position of Program Director for an International Company. He is also a writer with four books to his name, the most recent being ‘The Datura Solution’, ‘Anton Müller’. He is an accomplished cook and has an avid interest into astrophysics. For such a multi-talented man, it is easy to see why surrealism is a constant focus. He confirms that his favourite artist is Paul Delvaux (1897-1994), a Belgian Surrealist and confesses his admiration for 15th century portrait painters such as Van Eyck, especially his ‘Adoration of the Lamb’ in St Bavo, Ghent, Belgium, probably one of the most important works of art in the Western world. With this in mind, it isn’t hard to understand why Patrick finds the current contemporary art world a little uninteresting. This does not stop him trying to enthuse and inspire people by taking part in art shows or talks such as the one he has planned for UNESCO in the next few months. In the past his clients have been Pespi Cola, NATO, Torvec Inc, the US army. And yet, Patrick stays humble and is more than happy to let us delve into his artistic and philosophical mind.

a visit by Jeannelise Edelsten into Patrick Faure’s life

patrick.faure@btinternet.com patrickfaure.com

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I would highly recommend that you see his work as he is one of the most honest and intelligent contemporary artists I have met in a long while.

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he Festive Season might be months away, but it’s already time to plan your Christmas shopping if you don’t want to miss out on the Capital’s annual free-to-view motoring extravaganza, the Regent Street Motor Show. While the leading shops and boutiques on the Capital’s ‘Mile of Style’ are crammed with Christmas goodies for you and your loved ones, the famous road itself is shut to through traffic and, instead, filled with cars from motoring’s past, present and future. The date to remember is Saturday, 4 November from 10am-4pm, the day before the famous Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run supported by Hiscox makes its annual trip from London to Brighton. Both the Regent Street Motor Show and the Veteran Car Run are key events in the week-long London Motor Week run by the Royal Automobile Club. The first Regent Street Motor Show was staged in 2005 and it has now become a hugely popular must-see spectacle. In 2016, more than 400,000 people visited the show. Taking centre stage along Regent Street are 100 veteran cars taking part in the International Concours d’Elegance. With many of the drivers and passengers also dressing in period costume it’s a photographer’s delight. Several one-make car clubs take part – one such last year was the Jaguar Drivers Club, which displayed Jaguar sports cars through the years from the XK140 and E-type to the rare XJ220 and the current F-type. Another highlight in 2016 was James Hunt’s McLaren M23 F1 car, displayed on the 40th anniversary of his championship year by Hunt’s son Freddie. And there will be masses more besides with motorcycle displays, a stunt motorcycle team, dance troupes and simulator drives. “There’s something for everyone here. Cars from the dawn of motoring rub shoulders with the latest, technically advanced, zero emission electric vehicles to book end the history of motoring. “It’s free-to-view and a real highlight of the Royal Automobile Club’s London Motor Week,” said Peter Read, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club’s Motoring Committee. “And with all the shops and restaurants on and around Regent Street open for business, it’s the perfect time and place to go Christmas shopping.”

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Enjoy the craic at London Irish

stablished in 1898, London Irish rugby club has always been famed for its warm Irish welcome and nothing has changed, with fun for all ages, a warm welcome and top flight rugby on every match day at the Madejski Stadium in Reading. The club is looking forward to some cracking Aviva Premiership Rugby games against Northampton Saints, Leicester Tigers, Bath Rugby and Wasps to name just a few this season with adult tickets from £23 & U13s from £3 for top class Aviva Premiership Rugby games. And grab a bargain afternoon out for the family at European games against Edinburgh and Stade Français with U13s tickets only £1 throughout the stadium! Digger, the club’s Irish Wolfhound mascot, will be hosting Junior Exiles in Digger’s Den at every game, where there is plenty of entertainment for the family including London Irish players signing autographs and giving away free London Irish flags. Budding rugby stars can also get the chance to train with top London Irish Community Coaches before watching the game as the professionals take to the pitch. London Irish match day coaching clinics are the ultimate day out where players get the chance to develop their rugby skills, decision-making and game knowledge together with a Q&A with a London Irish player, free membership to the Junior Exiles Club, a team photo at the Madejski Stadium, and the chance to be in the Guard of Honour to welcome both home and away teams onto the pitch.

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To find out more about how you can become part of the London Irish family, visit www.london-irish.com

Temple to the golfing gods By Tim Allan

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Few golf clubs in England can combine as much old world charm and modern thinking as Temple.

rom the delightful rambling clubhouse, which stands high on a ridge overlooking the Thames Valley, to the intricate challenges of the course, Temple offers all that is best about the game of golf. While the course dates back more than 100 years, the options for playing it are designed for busy people who face pressures on both their time and their money. The parkland layout stretches over 140 acres of prime Berkshire real estate and stands testament to the abilities of Willie Park Jnr, who won the Open Championship in 1887 and 1889, and went on to forge a highly successful golf course design business. During a career spanning more than 40 years, he built some of the most famous courses in the world, including the Old Course at Sunningdale, but none of his designs can boast better views than Temple.

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Golf may be a very old game but Temple is moving with the times and the result is a true delight.

Standing on the first tee, you can see a wonderful panorama across the Thames Valley to Marlow and the Chiltern Hills beyond. You feel as though you have all of Berkshire to hit into, but, as on many of the holes at Temple, there is plenty of challenging rough to snag a poorly-directed shot. The first hole takes you down into the valley, with a roller-coaster descent to the green more than 380 yards away. From there, the holes wend their way through some perfect English countryside, with views up to Danesfield House, the luxury hotel where George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin held their 2014 UK wedding reception. As if to emphasise the rural splendour of the setting, on the day I played a pair of red kites flew low over a couple of the fairways before landing within 20 yards of us. The course features three very challenging par three holes, including the 235-yard 10th, which has a green set in a deep bowl, making it invisible from the tee. Just aim at the marker and take enough club to get you to the lip of the crater! The course finishes with a superb short par four, which challenges even the mid-handicap golfer to go for the green with a driver from the tee. The hole runs directly in front of the clubhouse terrace, so there are usually plenty of witnesses to your efforts! The course is kept in magnificent condition. The fairways are immaculate – as good as the greens on some courses – while the relatively small greens are perfectly smooth and true. The chalk downland base means the course drains well, yet remains lush in all but the driest of summers. Secretary Keith Adderley warned me that anyone who plays to their handicap around Temple will usually feature in the prizes. Since I didn’t play close to my handicap, it’s hard to give an accurate assessment of that! While not long by modern standards – just 6,200 yards off the very back tees with a par of 70 – the tightness of the driving lines and the subtle borrows of the greens make Temple a true test for golfers of all standards. The club has a close association with the Oppenheimer family, formerly involved with the South African diamond industry. Louis Oppenheimer joined the club board in 1912 and Raymond Oppenheimer, who played off plus two and captained the British Walker Cup team in 1951, was a leading member. The large wooden honours boards in the character-filled clubhouse bear eloquent testimony to the family’s golfing talents. Temple can also boast one of golf’s most colourful characters as a former club pro – the legendary Henry Cotton, who won The Open in 1934, 1937 and 1948 and was the leading British player of his era. He took over at Temple in 1959 and remained connected with the club until the early 1970s, when his burgeoning golf interests on the Algarve coast of Portugal became all-consuming. But it would be wrong to think of Temple as stuck in the past or living off former glories. In recent years, the club has made a determined effort to broaden its appeal and attract new members. As their tagline insists, they want to make golf ‘affordable, flexible and family-friendly’. To that end, they have introduced several levels of lifestyle membership, which start with the Bronze at just £720 a year including a food and drink commitment of £150. That entitles you to play 20 rounds a year, buy extra rounds at £30 and sign in guests for £30 a round. The levels then rise through Silver and Gold up to Platinum, which costs £1,625 a year including a food and drink commitment of £150 and allows you to play unlimited golf and sign in guests for just £20 a round. Temple has a very active junior membership and regular golf schools for women as the club seeks to broaden the appeal of the game. The course is also open to visitors, so just call secretary Keith or pro Mike Whitby on 01628 824254 to book your time.

Once upon a time . . . Our history starts in Italy, in the city of Florence, the capital of art and culture. This area has been a cradle for Italian Medieval and Renaissance history and for fine arts. Here many artists and geniuses were born, lived and worked: characters such as Giotto, Michelangelo, Dante Alighieri, Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo Galilei, Carlo Collodi, Giovanni da Verrazzano, Amerigo Vespucci, and still the tradition continues. Florence is also one of the largest districts of the Italian Fashion and Luxury Industry. A lot of inspiration comes from the area.

An overwhelming passion for special pens Mr Poli sr was working in the pen industry and he became a pen enthusiast; he owned a huge pen collection since 1950: more than 1500 pieces, as well as many books on pens. His son Luigi Poli couldn’t avoid being drawn into the same passion. Luigi’s office was close to Dante’s shop. Luigi and Dante became friends and quickly the pens world gained in Dante another very passionate fan which, in the forthcoming years, proved to be a milestone for the world pen market. Since 1988, the company brought the writing industry back to Florence after a bleak period of over 30 years and has turned Florentine and Italian craftsmanship into an icon of its products accompanying its fundamental values of Italian design and creativity, craftsmanship, quality and luxury. For many years the name ‘Visconti’ has been synonymous with extraordinarily elegant writing instruments coming from very intense historical and technological research into fountain pens, rollerball and ballpoint pens. Visconti offers a wide range of high quality items, regular, limited, bespoke, all showing strong characters and features. Visconti is now one of the most important players in the luxury pen world market.

Visconti Atelier Visconti is focused to be a niche manufacturer of extraordinary writing and time instruments. The description “luxury” is not because of the price but most of all because of the uniqueness of the pieces, the special manufacturing process and the craftsmanship used. Thanks to the skills of its Atelier in Florence, Visconti is able to offer bespoke products, to manage the full process from a dedicated design to custom manufacturing, for very special people.

Homo Sapiens Bronze Pen Collection

Florentine writing Instruments

Homo Sapiens Bronze Basaltic Lava from Etna Volcano

Visconti conceived the Homo Sapiens writing instruments line for real writers, for those for whom the fountain pen continues to represent a travelling mate, a daily friend to share with the same civilization that writing contributed to create. The material in this pen is as antique and natural as the world itself – lava from the Etna volcano in south Italy. Nevertheless, it has several characteristics that render it unique in the manufacturing of writing instruments. Visconti has successfully produced a compound containing over 50% of pure basaltic lava, catalysed together with resin in a formula – patented therefore obviously kept secret – whose extraordinary characteristics practically transform it into a material perfectly fit for writing instruments. Inspiration for all metallic parts was drawn from the Bronze Age, almost contemporary to the invention of writing. www.visconti.it (0) 207 267 5001 prices start at £328

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Name Version Material

Luxury on Lake Como

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by Adam Jacot de Boinod

ake Como is pretty much unanimously considered the most beautiful of the Italian Lakes. Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore may be bigger but Lake Como is surely the most impressive. It’s the deepest lake in Europe and is an enchanting and truly restorative setting for a vacation. It’s where the Duke of Windsor holidayed with Mrs Simpson, where Verdi wrote La Traviata and where Mussolini was executed trying to escape to Switzerland two days before Hitler poisoned himself when the game was finally up. George Clooney has a villa at Laglio and hosts of celebrities are drawn like moths to this visual and sensual delight. And it’s all about the aristocratic villas and hotels and their elegant gardens. Each of you will have your favourite. Posh Milanese families vie for grandeur and style on this lake rather like New Yorkers with the Hamptons. The hotels and villas have different colours and shapes. There are yellows and greens with canopies and umbrellas or muted pink and terracotta with grey shutters. And their wonderful proportions blend into a pleasing harmonious row. It’s almost as though sometimes they are in communion with each other across the water. I certainly felt that with the hotels of Tremezzo and Serbelloni and their respective villas of Carlotta and Melzi.

For Villa Camilla see www.vaanyc.com/destinations/italy/lake_regions/lake_como/villa_camilla.html Adam had support from stanstedexpress.com and chepstowcars.com Classic Collection Holidays (0800 047 1064; www.classic-collection.co.uk) offers 3 nights/7 nights at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni from £1159/£1909 per person. Prices based on 2 adults sharing a classic park view room on a bed & breakfast basis and includes return flights from London Gatwick to Milan and private transfers.

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Image –Property of Provincia di Como Settore Turismo

Adam Jacot de Boinod worked on the first series of the BBC panel game QI for Stephen Fry. He is a British author and travel writer.

As for the gardens, my favourite, and the most famous, is in Bellagio set in the Villa Melzi. It has just the right level of human adaptation. Yes it’s well-kept and tailored but it manages to keep a sense of wilderness and a lack of appearing manicured. Positioned along the banks of the lake it has lots of pleasing surprises: spongy lawns that invited me to take off my flip-flops, a neo-classical gazebo in which to meditate, and a serene family chapel in white, beige and gold. And there’s a working garden and greenhouses to give it real authenticity. The villa was built for the vice-president of the short-lived Napoleonic Republic of Italy and both house and garden reflect the taste of the period. The house is neo-classical in style while the garden, apart from a classically Italian lake terrace with lily pool and statuary, is designed in the romantic English style that invaded Italy at the time. I stayed in Bellagio at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. And very spoiling it was at breakfast to look up at the coffered ceiling, the frescoes and chandeliers of the ballroom where I ate. The walls were all soft corals and pinks, pale greens and lilac grey with white and gold, with the light from the seven large windows reflected by mirrors everywhere. The liveried uniforms and varnished panelling of the wooden counters of the concierge round off the notion that class is timeless when it comes to this Italian hotel. I stayed next at the wonderful Villa Camilla, the old family home of the Marchesi di Rozzano. The villa looks across the three parts of Lake Como and the beautiful mountains above and beyond. On arrival I went upstairs, the polished floors creak wonderfully all the way up the sweeping staircase. It was like a museum and I was dying to explore every nook and cranny. Along its walls are hung a catalogue of horse paintings strongly hinting at the family passion. The bathrooms are an array of vibrant and surprising colours to counteract their sober and traditional adjoining bedrooms. With ten bedrooms the house is often taken for family reunions and groups of friends. And there’s a lovely downstairs bedroom and en suite bathroom for an elderly or infirm occupant. It’s all been thoroughly thought through. I was fortunate enough to enjoy a private boat ride on the lake. It was unquestionably the icing on the cake and the ultimate experience exploring the serene lake with the towering Swiss Alps looming from every angle. I pulled into a secret cove to swim, before lunching at a small restaurant overhanging the lake taking it all in with a crisp glass of wine. It’s the most beautiful and therapeutic experience. I reached total relaxation as I absorbed the wonders of mother nature. I had a wonderful dinner at the new and modern funkily designed L’Escale restaurant at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Chef Martin Vitaloni was as inventive as sommelier Andrea Montini was selective. To go with my amuse-bouche of grilled ham (a mini-burger in effect) I was granted a glass of Franciacorta Extra Brut Lo Sparviere champagne. To assist my delicious entrée of ravioli alla papa al pomodoro and red prawns I drank Dama Rose Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo that was pleasingly light. All in eager anticipation of my main course: the monkfish ossobuco with green peas and candied lemon was so fresh it was clearly caught that day and went well with the Lugana Prestige Ca Maiol, a refreshing white wine. To finish and to have with my dangerously generous serving of Tiramisu I sipped on a charming pudding wine called Sule Caluso Passito Orsolani. One real treat of a dinner. I just had time on my way back to the airport to pop in on the Villa D’Este. This 16th century villa has been a hotel for the rich and famous since her inception over a hundred years ago. Though it has nothing to do with the Este family, much of the Renaissance garden has gone but the lovely double water staircase remains, framed in an avenue of cypresses and magnolias. Quintessential Lake Como!

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he spectacular scenery of The North of England is seductive. It captivates and inspires. An area of some considerable size, it is as diverse as it is beautiful. It contains a rugged coastline, impressive cliffs, commanding mountains, extensive sandy beaches, verdant valleys, and heather laden moors. It is home to five National Parks and six World Heritage Sites. City sprawl, market towns and villages nestle among such a landscape. It offers something for everyone and is close to heaven for walkers. By day it is exhilarating to experience the outdoors whether catching a boat to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, walking historic Hadrian’s Wall, striding the Yorkshire Dales or climbing in the Lake District. However, as the day ends and you return sated, windswept, and possibly wet, you welcome the warmth and comfort of a cosy cottage that is your home for the duration of your stay. Fortunately, comfortable, characterful cottages are a given in the North of England. There are many to choose from and they are as unique as an individual’s requirements. Some people require a home from home including Wi Fi, television and a pub/restaurant within walking distance. Others are happier getting away from it all. The overriding requirement for all is comfort. Whatever the choice, there will always be an interesting view, whether picturesque, panoramic or both. Former weaver’s cottages, in appealing rural villages, trail along cobbled streets affording vignettes of treetops and slated roofs from upper floors. Built of stone, their unconventional layouts only add to their charm. Low ceilings ensure warmth. Always a priority. Rooms tend to be compact and cosy. Natural light is often a feature, a legacy of their former use. Farm and miner’s cottages, due to their location, offer spectacular uninterrupted views. You can sit indoors, by a wood burning stove, luxuriating in comfort while admiring the scenic environment. Former mill workers’ cottages nestle in quiet rural locations, while converted mills, in secluded valleys, offer luxurious space. From converted character barns, to former stone built stables, converted castles, lodges and lighthouse cottages, it is, ultimately, all about the location. The beauty of nature is literally on your doorstep, wherever you choose to rest. The National Trust offers several cottage properties of interest including a fellside cottage, once owned by Beatrix Potter. Comfort comes in the form of period features complemented by something close to boutique chic. There may be inglenook fireplaces and beamed ceilings but there will also be gas fired central heating, wood burners, crisp clean bedlinen, beds to sink into, soft towels, comfortable sofas and throws – not to mention a well-stocked kitchen with all the amenities and, most importantly, a bottle opener for that well-earned drink. After all, you want to embrace the elements by day but preferably escape them by night.

Cosy Cottages in Northern England By Sylvia Richards

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Balnakeil Bay

Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Romantic Road Trip The NC 500 Claire Quirk

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All images: www.northcoast500.com

Spending a week driving 500 miles around the North Coast of Scotland wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the first place that I thought of when I was propositioned with a romantic road trip this summer. I dreamt of following the Romantic Road in Germany, Les Corniches in France or even the Amalfi Coast but certainly was not dreaming of Scotland. All I could think of was cold, wet and windy days driving around desolate scenery with only cosy evenings in a camper van to look forward to! However, I packed my bags, including woolly hats and sunglasses, put on a brave face and left London for seven days determined to enjoy myself. And to my great surprise, enjoy myself is exactly what I did!

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

Castle of Mey

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he NC 500 follows 500 miles around the most northerly roads of Scotland from Inverness around to Lochcarron and then back to Inverness. Along the way it takes in some of the most beautiful and spectacular scenery in the world and is full of fairy-tale castles, mystic ruins, atmosphere and surprises that start the minute you cross the Moray Firth heading towards Dornoch for the first overnight stop. Dornoch is a pretty town, like a film set with small interesting shops, a cathedral and the Dornoch Castle Hotel which makes the best whisky, ginger beer and lime cocktail in the world and is perfect to tease your appetite for dinner. Before leaving Dornoch make some time for a walk on the beautiful unspoilt beach to set you up for the next stage of the journey. It’s a long drive to Dunnet Head as there are so many things to stop for and visit along the way. A few miles outside Dornoch is Dunrobin Castle. This pretty fairy-tale castle is a must-see when there are so many to choose from along the route. Try and take some time to appreciate the gardens and wonderful views out to sea. There are falconry displays and stylish topiary that make the small-scale gardens so interesting. It’s easy to imagine the life and history of the Sutherland family who have lived in the castle for centuries. Leaving Dunrobin Castle behind we headed up towards Wick for a picnic lunch and then up to John O’Groats. So far I was yet to experience the cold, wet or windy weather I was expecting, as the sun was shining and the clear views were anything but desolate. By now I was totally immersed in the scenery and the magical atmosphere had well and truly spun its spell Bucholie Castle on me as we diverted off the main road into John O’Groats and headed out to Duncansby Head. It’s only a short 15 minute walk out to the Duncansby Stacks and well worth the fresh air. John O’Groats was as busy as you would imagine but it’s still very charming and of course you’ll want to take your turn with photos standing by the famous signpost to worldwide destinations! We then drove the last stretch to Dunnet Head for the evening. The next morning we woke up to light rain, but rather than spoil the view it added to the mystical beauty of the environment. We decided we’d make that day a bit more of a driving day and to stock up on essential supplies as we were determined to try at least one night of a wild overnight stop as it’s permitted in Scotland. Driving along the North Coast we started to get a bit of a flavour of the roads yet to come as in places they became single rack, more windy and more fun! The showers and sunshine throughout the day added to the spectacular scenery. There were times when we saw no other cars for miles and then we would be surrounded by a group of motor bikes making the same journey, or being overtaken by the sports cars or classic cars navigating the bends and sweeping coastal roads around Loch Eriboll leading to Smoo Caves. The caves are well worth a visit and we couldn’t have been luckier because rain only adds to the dramatic waterfalls and interest of the caves. The last stretch of the journey was dotted with lochs and deserted crofts and then scattered with tea shops and places to stop around Scourie. Just before the steep drop down to the bridge going into Kylesku we spotted a lay-by leading to a small area overlooking a small loch so we pulled up and spent our first night in complete wilderness with our own private view. The next day was clear, bright and very sunny. Driving through Unapool we ventured onto some of the scariest roads I’ve ever been on. The single track roads were nearly too narrow for our camper van and some bends were completely blind with overhanging rock and sheer drops on the other side. Arriving in Lochinver for brunch was a real treat as there is the best pie shop in the world in this small town. Stopping to walk out to Ardvrck Castle and then driving to Ullapool for a walk along the beach before dinner, was the perfect ending to a perfect day. Ullapool is a lovely, busy town with a number of shops and a ferry out to Stornoway. The little harbour is pretty and busy with fishing boats and small yachts. We took a boat ride out to the Summer Isles. On the way out to sea we saw an eagle guarding its nest, seals sunning themselves and porpoises swimming alongside the boat. Stopping off on Tanera Mor we were served free tea and homemade fruit cake in the village hall by a couple who are the only permanent inhabitants of this tiny island. After lunch we drove to Kinlochewe for the night to get ready for the drive around Bealach Na Ba. Some people start their trip around the NC 500 by tackling Bealach Na Ba first but I’m so glad we didn’t as we had saved the best driving until last. You know you’ve started the Bealach Na Ba route around this beautiful peninsular when you pass the great big warning signs! The roads are predominantly single track, sheer drops, blind bends and sharp S bends that lead through some of the most spectacular scenery and pretty little towns including Applecross. The windy roads depend on every driver respecting each other’s safety and enjoyment of the road. Motor bikes, cars and the odd camper van snake around these exciting and exhilarating roads and when you get to the end you just want to do the whole thing again. We couldn’t though, as we had to face the long drive to Berwick just across the Scottish border and then back down to London the next day. And as we crossed the border back into England my heart sank a little to be Dunrobin Castle leaving Scotland and leaving the NC 500 behind us. The road trip had been truly amazing, it offered everything it should; spectacular scenery, exciting roads, natural beauty, castles and ruins, rugged coasts and gentle lochs. My only advice about this trip would be to forget mainland Europe and make sure you drive the NC 500 before it’s too late and too spoilt. Everyone should travel Scotland’s Romantic Road their own way and I’m so glad we did it our way.

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The Beaumont Hotel

Pure luxury located in the heart of the beating pulse of London, accessible to all the main tourist spots, museums and galleries, and shopping as only London knows howâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ś.

The Beaumont, Brown Hart Gardens, Mayfair, London, W1K 6TF +44 20 7499 1001 • www.thebeaumont.com

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ust a hop, skip and jump from the hustle and bustle of Selfridges – The Beaumont is set back off the main drag and tucked quietly away on one of London’s lovely squares. Within the building itself is the epitome of 1920’s Art Deco Hollywood, with framed images on every wall, artworks, furniture and furnishings all reflecting the era and with 73 rooms, 23 of which are suites and studios. We were lucky enough to stay in one of the three Mayfair Suites which has a large bedroom with seating area; a lounge area in which were two large sofas, coffee table, TV and so on; a dining area that included an open cabinet with a fabulous selection of books; a dressing room and a large bathroom including a large rain shower, as well as a bath, furnished with extras like scales and a magnifying illuminated mirror for the perfect powder puff finish. A second guest bathroom came in handy and in the lobby was the mini bar, with complimentary soft drinks and snacks. Coffee, tea etc. is only a phone call away delivered to your suite by the very efficient room service staff. All the staff we came across at The Beaumont were friendly, helpful, attentive and knowledgeable when entrusted with their proud owners Jeremy King & Chris Corbin’s first hotel and its smooth running. This luxury 5-star hotel can be proud of its AA Hotel of the Year 2016/17 commendation and its insertion in the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2017. The hotel guests, together with their visitors, without exception have full use of The Cub Room – a beautifully decorated, comfortable private area, where they can help themselves to complimentary tea, coffee, juice, home-made viennoiseries and preserves in the mornings. Also complimentary to guests are Wi-Fi and local and national landline calls, as well as all the in-room movies. Guests can also arrange to be dropped off locally in the hotel’s vintage Daimler. The American Bar is a fabulous area to enjoy a snack or pre-dinner drinks. There you find yourself distracted from the business in hand and end up playing ‘guess who’s who’ with your partner as you look around at all the framed photos, and when you get stuck just ask any of the staff. I don’t know how they do it but they seem to know every frame and who’s in it! The Colony Grill Room is where we had our dinner and breakfast the following morning. The portions are generous but – not knowing this at the time – I started with the Chicken and Sweetcorn Chowder (priced at £9.25) then the Fillet of Cod, ‘Mouclade’ of Mussels with roasted broccoli, fried courgette (£24.00) while my partner had Calf’s Liver and Bacon (£25.00). The food was perfect. While my fish was delicate and delicious, my colleague was sent way back to her childhood with her liver and bacon (she had to admit a whole lot better than her mother had cooked!). Happy and suitably satiated, we headed up to our suite to don the cotton robes and slippers left out for us to relax in. Half an hour later we muscled up the strength to pick up the phone and order a Caramelised Banana Split and The Colony Club Sundae with the choice of so many toppings we were spun into indecision for a while. After a very relaxing night in our luxurious beds we went to the gym and spa for bit of a work-out then headed up for breakfast where the Kedgeree with poached egg on top set me up for the rest of the day. When we checked out the British weather was doing what it does best in July/August and the concierge made sure we each had an umbrella. We thought it was on account of us being at the salon earlier but in fact everyone we saw leaving the hotel was given this service. It is said the hotel was named after a famous American hotelier, a Mr Jimmy Beaumont. Mr Beaumont, the story goes, was fed up with running hotels in the Prohibition era in New York, when someone suggested to him: “Why don’t you go over the pond and open up in London; that’s where it’s all happening?” And so he came over and made a huge name for himself in London, running his eponymous hotel. Such was his renown that Savile Row tailors designed and made especially suits for him, which were recently displayed in their windows during London Craft Week 2017. The only thing is this character is fictitious and it seems never existed except as a myth in everyone’s minds!

The secret to a getting a good night’s sleep with baby

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Ewan the sleep sheep is available from Bella Baby London.

Cocoonababy is available from Bella Baby London.

reparing for the arrival of a new baby is one of the most exciting and often overwhelming times in one’s life. Nine months on and baby is here, the most precious little love of your lives. While new parents are swept up in the bubble of new baby bliss, a number of common challenges can present themselves in the coming days, weeks and months after baby arrives. Being aware of these difficulties and having some solutions and plans in place can really help your family transition smoothly into your ‘new normal’. Sleep, or lack thereof, is the most common issue new parents and babies face. You may feel bombarded with advice on routines, schedules, naps and biological timekeeping, however you will soon figure out what works best for you and your baby. The one secret that you absolutely need to know is actually so simple, it’s all about recreating the womb after baby is born in order to ease the transition to the ‘outside world’. Two of the best products on the market for achieving that safe and cosy womb-like sensation are the Cocoonababy Nest and the Sleepyhead Pod. Along with white noise and a darkened room, your baby will soon feel as cosy as they did while they grew and developed in the womb. The Cocoonababy Nest is an ergonomic sleep positioner suitable from birth to around 4 months, or when baby starts to move around independently. Designed by a French paediatric physiotherapist to alleviate colic and reflux symptoms, the Cocoonababy is a comforting, reassuring, womb-like space. The ergonomic cocoon helps a newborn baby make the transition to the outside world as smooth as possible. The semi-foetal, gently curved position reassures baby and encourages peaceful sleep for baby and parents as a result! Improving the quality and length of sleep, as well as reducing the startle or Moro reflex, the Cocoonababy will limit reflux and colic issues and minimize the risk of flat head (plagiocephaly). The Sleepyhead Pod is similar in many ways to the Cocoonababy in that it offers the same cosy sensation of reinventing the womb. A safe, snug and soothing environment is what baby craves, and the Sleepyhead pod offers just that. Reducing the moro reflex, easing the risk of plagiocephaly, and providing portability. How it differs to the Cocoonababy is that it comes in two sizes; the Deluxe Plus is suitable from birth to approx 8 months, and the Grand size is suitable from approx 9 months to 36 months. The Sleepyhead is completely flat so will not ease the symptoms of colic or reflux when used on a flat surface. It is a multifunctional product in that it is also a crib reducer, great for tummy time thanks to the rounded bumper, and moving on to the Grand size will help ease the crib to toddler bed transition. It creates the perfect microclimate for your baby, made from super safe materials; it is breathable, hygienic and non-toxic, with excellent air permeability. The Cocoonababy and Sleepyhead are both available from Bella Baby London. Visit us at www.bellababy.co.uk for more information or call in to see us instore at 58-60 Richmond Road, Twickenham.London. TW1 3BE.

Career first Pregnancy second

Professor Tim Child is Director at The Fertility Partnership, the largest provider of fertility care in the UK, with clinics in Marylebone and along the Thames, Maidenhead and Oxford.

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he majority of us spend our twenties, and increasingly our thirties, getting an education, maybe travelling and pursuing our career before thinking about starting a family. Add to that ever growing house prices and not to mention meeting Mr or Ms Right, it’s clear why there’s a steady shift towards postponing starting a family. In fact, we’re leaving parenting later than ever before. There are now more women giving birth in their forties than in their twenties and the average age of a mother is now 30.3 years old. Men are also delaying fatherhood, with the average age of a first time dad now 32.9. This may mean we feel better prepared to start a family and we may see lots of older couples around us having babies, but our biological age hasn’t changed. Once over 35, one-third of women experience fertility problems, rising to two-thirds when over 40. This tends to be because the number and quality of the eggs in the ovaries declines. But developments in fertility are leading to an increasing number of people taking steps to prepare themselves for later family plans. A growing number of young single people and couples, not quite ready to start their brood, are taking fertility tests to answer to the question ‘what’s my fertility?’ As if fertility problems are spotted early, it can improve chances of conception later. A clinic should work closely with you to ensure you receive a fertility test appointment that includes the right package of investigations for you. Five tests to ask about include AMH Blood Test, Ultrasound Examination, Antral Follicle Count, Semen Analysis and Full Review of Medical & Reproductive History. Armed with your test results and family history, your consultant will be able to give you an accurate picture of your fertility and if any steps need to be taken now to preserve your future family plans. An increasing percentage of women are now also considering egg freezing to preserve their fertility. Until recently there wasn’t the technology to freeze and thaw eggs safely. Ice crystals tended to form, causing damage to the cell. However a new procedure called vitrification, is changing what’s possible. Vitrification offers a rapid way of freezing the egg, so there is no crystal formation and the eggs don’t lose their viability. It’s early days for vitrification and clinics are seeing success rates using frozen eggs of around 35 per cent. Before undergoing this procedure, ask for a very simple test to assess your ‘ovarian reserve’, to help clarify how much it will help your fertility planning. Also ask about a clinic’s success rate, as this varies. Egg freezing gives you another option to consider carefully. We know from experience that many couples spend years trying to find out the cause of their infertility. This needn’t be the case. So arm yourself with fertility health information personal to you. Boston Place Clinic: bostonplaceclinic.co.uk Thames Valley Fertility: thamesvalleyfertility.co.uk Oxford Fertility: oxfordfertility.co.uk

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Katie Piper Launches Maternity Collection with Want That Trend. Com

Blue Bardot twist front detailed dress £24.95

3/4 Sleeve wrap-over belted dress £24.95

‘Mother’ By Katie Piper

ollowing on from the huge success of her debut clothing collection with e-retailer Want That Trend.Com, Katie Piper is delighted to have launched her maternity clothing collection, ‘Mother’ By Katie Piper. Katie’s new maternity collection consists of 26 pieces in a variety of block colour ways, prints and vibrant tones to match Katie’s own style. Items within the collection include skater, bodycon, wrap over and midi dresses, along with a mix of t-shirts and jumpsuits to ensure every mum-to-be feels confident, comfortable and stylish during her expecting months. Each piece was carefully selected by Katie and the Want That Trend team to ensure all mothers-tobe can find the perfect outfit to embrace their bump at an affordable price point. The collection is available in sizes 6-18 and gives women across the UK the opportunity to feel amazing in their fashion choices during a time when women often struggle to flatter their changing shape. As with Katie’s previous collection with Want That Trend.Com, £1.00 from the sale of each dress from will be donated to The Katie Piper Foundation, to support their great work with burns survivors.

The Katie Piper ‘Mother’ Maternity Collection with Want That Trend.Com is available at www. wantthattrend. com

Navy strappy wrap-over culotte jumpsuit £24.95

‘I wanted launch my own maternity range as soon as I found out the wonderful news that I was expecting my second child. Throughout my first pregnancy I struggled to find any maternity clothes that I liked and couldn’t believe how expensive maternity clothes were – especially as you are only able to wear them for a few months! Pregnancy is a time where our body hang-ups become exaggerated and our confidence is tested, so I hope that other women are able to embrace the changes to the body that pregnancy brings and feel gorgeous in my ‘Mother’ maternity collection.’

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Katie Piper comments: Images: Ruth Rose

Daisy printed belted midi swing dress £22.95

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Focus on Functional Fitness

oing to the gym isn’t all about lycra and big muscles. Functional fitness exercises train your muscles to help you do everyday activities safely and efficiently. For many people, exercise is a way to maintain or improve their quality of life. And that’s the focus of functional fitness. Functional fitness exercises are designed to train and develop your muscles to make it easier and safer to perform everyday activities, such as carrying groceries or playing a game of football with your kids. Some ways to help with this can be:

A E S T H E T I C S K I N T R E AT M E N T S FOR WOMEN AND MEN

pianolobby_Layout 1 28/09/2015 12:54 Page 1

Come & try our beautiful range of pianos Come & try our beautiful rangePlaying of pianos piano is fun for all the familybeautiful & also helps your child of pianos Come & try our range

Chi and Yoga involve varying combinations • Taiof resistance and flexibility training that can help build functional fitness.

gyms have a gym ball. Ask the instructor • Most for some advice as exercises done sitting on this will strengthen up the torso without you even knowing it.

lunges help prepare your body • Multidirectional for common activities, such as vacuuming and gardenwork.

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get ahead at school! -------------------------------Playing piano is fun for all the Pianolobby is infamily SE London & also helps your child & we are expertsget ahead at school! in matching people -------------------------------to their ideal upright piano. is in SE London Pianolobby & we are experts Please call Julian on 020 3645 3930 or email: in matching people julian@pianolobby.co.uk | www.pianolobby.co.ukto their ideal upright piano. Please call Julian on 020 3645 3930 or email: julian@pianolobby.co.uk | www.pianolobby.co.uk

Playing piano is fun for all the family and also helps your child get ahead at school!

Please call Julian on 020 3645 3930 or email julian@pianolobby.co.uk www.pianolobby.co.uk

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Pianolobby is in SE London and we are experts in matching people to their ideal upright piano.

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Saving face this autumn

e all feel a little sluggish this time of year. Suddenly the nights start drawing in while the summer is busy packing its bags to fly south. Spare a thought for your skin at this time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; having worked hard to protect you through the warm and sunny summer months it can respond by leaving you looking tired and run down. Dehydrated skin can result in a dull complexion and also result in higher oil production in the skin which can in turn cause blemishes and blocked pores. Experts suggest that autumn is the perfect time to give your cells a boost, with prescriptive facials ready to rejuvenate your complexion and enhance your protection from the harsh winter elements ahead.

So give your skin a break, let it unwind and kick of its proverbial flip flops ready to embrace autumn in all of its glory.

Matt Taylor, Brand & Education Manager, Eve Taylor London explains: “As the winter season approaches so does the onset of environmental changes to our skin’s condition which can lead to a whole range of uncomfortable issues. “Icy cold winds and sub-zero temperatures strip vital lipids from the skin resulting in dryness, flakiness and a lacklustre dull appearance. The inside environment can be arid with little moisture in the air as we crank up the central heating which can leave skin feeling tight and with more fine lines. These temperature fluctuations can lead to sensitivity as we move from freezing cold outside to warm and toasty inside leading to impairment of the skin’s natural barrier function. Skin can become red and flushed as the body adjusts to the temperature differences. The lips are particularly prone to dryness in the winter months, with flaking and chapping leaving them sore and sensitive. Skin can also be particularly susceptible to UV damage in winter even though it may not be hot outside. UV rays will still have a detrimental effect on the skin by generating free radicals that lead to sun damage and premature ageing. Snow reflects the UV rays and can increase the UV exposure by twice as much. “Additional lifestyle changes can make a big difference to your skin condition. We give advice to our clients about the way they actually maintain their skin as well as product advice; adjustments to their lifestyle alone can often make noticeable improvements.”

Advance Ultra Rich Moisturiser £26.99

Matt advises:

•

Reduce the temperature of water used to cleanse; even though it is tempting to take hot baths and showers to rewarm the body after exposure to the cold, hot water strips away vital lipids from the skin which are vital to keeping the skin hydrated. Lukewarm/tepid water is sufficient to thoroughly cleanse the skin and try to avoid long baths and showers.

•

Turn down the heat. When warm central heating is turned on it causes a lack of humidity in the air which in turn causes dehydration to the skin. Investing in a humidifier could be a prudent move but simply placing bowls of water close to the radiators will increase the humidity levels in the air and assist in maintaining hydration levels in the skin.

•

Avoid using lots of water-based formulations on the skin during the coldest months. As we know, water has a freezing point and icicles on the face is both a bad look and not good for our complexions so opt for lipid rich bases which won’t freeze.

Seal and Protect Lip Balm £3.99

The Eve Taylor ® Winter Rescue Facial was created to combat the effects of cold winds and warm central heating with this hydrating, barrier repairing facial, created to leave skin supple and protected from the harsh elements and is ideal for all skin types and conditions, especially those with dry and dehydrated skin, sensitivity and sensitization, outside workers or those exposed to the elements.

Ultra Soothing Cleanser £15.49

Stoke Park Country Club and Spa, based in Buckinghamshire, suggests the Thalgo Collagen Radiance Facial, which is 70 minutes of indulgence skincare. This facial will give a collagen boost to a tired, dull complexion and is also ideal to combat the signs of ageing. The Collagen facial includes a thorough cleanse and exfoliation following Thalgo’s signature moves to create a feeling of deep relaxation by the sea. The treatment includes a specific anti-ageing facial massage routine and a treatment-only intensive collagen mask which instantly lifts, hydrates and nourishes the skin for a bright, radiant complexion. You will receive a relaxing scalp, neck and shoulder massage whilst the mask is transforming your skin and the treatment will finish with an application of products to leave your skin fresh and hydrated. They also offer a Hydra Marine Facial that treats dry dehydrated skin. Treating any visible signs of fatigue over the winter months, the Hydra Marine Facial is packed full of ingredients to not only intensively hydrate the skin but also lock that hydration in to keep the skin looking fresh and radiant. The intensive mask is a must for all skins over the winter months and can be enjoyed as a product to use at home to continue the good work of your facial treatment.

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The Eve Taylor ® Winter Rescue Facial is designed to give immediate improvements to the skin. If homecare is used consistently between treatments then we recommend ongoing treatments at 2-4-week intervals over an 8-12 week period. The Eve Taylor ® Winter Rescue Facial has an average price of £35.00.

World’s first laser for fat reduction and body contouring Non-invasive treatment with no downtime FDA approved to reduce up to 24% of treated fat in the flanks, abdomen, inner and outer thighs and back Over 50,000 SculpSure treatments performed globally with zero complications S-Thetics Clinic in Beaconsfield have the 1st ScupSure device in England outside London Contact S-Thetics to request your SculpSure consultation

Non-Invasive Body Contouring Treatment

BEACONSFIELD’S FIRST DEDICATED MEDICAL AESTHETIC CLINIC S-Thetics specialises in the very latest in advanced non-surgical treatments for the face and body • Surgeon-led by Miss Sherina Balaratnam • Advanced skincare and medical facials • Non-surgical skin rejuvenation using medical grade technology • Facial injectables • SculpSure body contouring now available • As featured in The Times, Good Housekeeping, Conde Nast Brides Magazine, Coutts Magazine and more “Best for ageless skin” - Conde Nast Brides Cosmetic Beauty Guide 2016

Contact us for your complimentary consultation and receive £25 off your first HydraFacial treatment Marlborough House, 45 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LZ P. 01494 670 990 E. info@sthetics.co.uk www.sthetics.co.uk

Let there be light: All about laser treatments By Miss Sherina Balaratnam MBBS, MRCS, MSc(UCL) Surgeon and Medical Director, S-Thetics Clinic Beaconsfield

n aesthetics, medical lasers are devices that use precisely focused light sources to remove or treat tissues. Lasers are a key part of my clinical practice as they can safely and effectively target a broad range of skin conditions, from facial veins, acne and surgical scars, through to sun damage, stubborn pockets of fat, stretch marks, wrinkles and more. Skin can also be revitalized and overall appearance improved by reducing wrinkles and fine lines. But where do you start? The choice of treatments can seem overwhelming, with a range of devices all claiming similar benefits. Here are my top tips if you are considering having a laser treatment:

What does laser mean?

Laser stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

How do lasers work?

Medical lasers use precisely focused wavelengths to direct light energy to chemical targets in skin, known as chromophores. For instance, a laser wavelength may target melanin (pigment), water or hemoglobin (blood). As an example, a wavelength that targets melanin can target and remove or reduce freckles, brown spots, or age spots

What is IPL?

Unlike lasers that generally work with a single wavelength of light, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses many wavelengths of specifically filtered light. Both lasers and IPL devices are designed to treat specific unwanted targets in the skin like pigment from sun damage, broken blood vessels or hair.

Does laser resurfacing hurt?

Patients typically describe the sensation during a laser treatment as like a rubber band snapping against the skin. This sensation will vary according to the area and depth of treatment. A topical anaesthetic can be applied prior to treatment, to minimize any potential discomfort.

Timing is key:

Whilst laser treatments can be undertaken all year round, the Autumn is typically the peak time as daylight hours start to shorten and we have less direct sun exposure.

Qualifications and research:

Finding a qualified practitioner is vital to ensuring a safe treatment, for any aesthetic procedure. In the hands of a poorly trained individual, lasers can be ineffective and even dangerous. Ask your practitioner about their qualifications, medical background, complication rate and experience with laser treatments.

*This offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. * Fully refundable deposit required to secure appointment.

S-Thetics Medical Aesthetic Clinic Marlborough House, 45 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LZ P. 01494 670 990 E. info@sthetics.co.uk www.sthetics.co.uk

Consultation:

You must have an in-depth consultation with your practitioner who should record your medical history, any known allergies and discuss any safety concerns associated with treatment. Knowledge and technical delivery are crucial but most important is your actual consultation, assessment and mutually agreed treatment plan.

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen:

This should always be your starting point. Sun damage is the main cause of premature skin ageing and skin cancer. UV damage replaces your skin’s natural glow with dryness, discoloration and, eventually, wrinkles. Use a minimum of SPF30 daily, reapplying regularly. SPF in make-up doesn’t give the protection you need.

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We would like to invite all Riverside Journals readers for a complimentary VISIA skin analysis and £25 off your first HydraFacial treatment until 30th September 2017* Please contact S-Thetics on 01494 670990 or info@sthetics.co.uk and quote “Riverside.”

CLINICS NATIONWIDE

The FAST track way to a NEW you JEANETTE LOST

4st 7lbs with only

21 weeks of treatme nt!

My health has much improved and I am no longer on medication.

Due to working long hours with my Nursing career, it gave me little time for myself and over the past few years my weight has increased. Overall this was making me feel unhealthy. I was prescribed medication for back ache and oesophageal reflux disease. I have tried many diets over the years with little success, but this has been the best decision I ever made and have not looked back since. My health has much improved and I am no longer on medication. I am much more confident now and very happy with my new look. I have gone from a size 16/18 to a size 10/12. I feel fantastic and have bags of energy to chase my 18 month old grandson around. I’ve learnt a lot from this experience and have started at the gym and intend to maintain my new look.

Jeanette before treatment

Jeanette after treatment

Alevere London 11 Gees Court | Mayfair | London | W1U 1JN | tel: 0207 399 9939

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Identification of the Type The pervert narcissistic can be male or female, both will have similar patterns of behaviour. He or she will be initially very charming, attentive and completely enamoured with the partner. There will be an immediate sense of connection felt by the partner as the pervert narcissistic will manipulate and evolve to be just what the partner looks for and desires. However, once the relationship is established, typically through a marriage where the partner feels secure, the pervert narcissistic starts to show his or her true personality. There will be constant nagging, fighting and humiliation which begins undermining the partner’s sense of selfconfidence and self-esteem. This will all be done very privately, often with significant emotional and mental abuse, while in public the pervert narcissistic will continue to be the attentive spouse and dedicated lover. These people are, in fact, moral perverts, using seduction, power and manipulation to torture and demean their partner. It is as if they gain power by the humiliation of the person they profess to love the most. The Impact of the Relationship The impact of being in a relationship with a pervert narcissistic can be devastating to a man or a woman. The narcissists choose people that may already be hurt or lacking in self-confidence, then they seek to become the “perfect partner”. They shower attention and build the partner up, but it is all about creating an emotional trap to then have the time to emotionally tear them down over and over again. They also tend to look for people that are very empathetic, sympathetic and personally generous with their relationships. In most cases, the pervert narcissistic will use isolation of the partner from friends and family as a start to their systemic manipulation and emotional destruction. This isolation forms a type of brainwashing and, with the emotional control exercised by the pervert narcissistic, it is highly effective. In reality, the pervert narcissistic is projecting everything he or she doesn’t like about him or herself onto the partner, then systemically destroying that individual. All the issues he or she is having will be blamed on the partner, and nothing is ever good enough to “fix” the often imagined problems. Women and men that are in these types of relationships can have a range of different damages from the interaction. All will have a dramatic drop in their self-esteem, often requiring years and therapeutic interventions to undo the damage caused by the partner. There is also a high risk of developing anxiety, depression, fears and an incredible distrust of others. People can begin to question their “good” qualities as for so long they have been told they don’t have any. In some cases, people may even feel they have become what the pervert narcissistic has been accusing them of being, which is a distorted view of the negative traits of the abuser.

www.philippejacquet.co.uk 020 7206 2438

However, taking that first step can be hard so how can we best set ourselves up for our journey through life? Believe in yourself and not the demons within that seek to undermine you. Talk to yourself as you would to a good friend. You wouldn’t tell a friend they were unworthy and useless so why listen to such negativity from yourself. Everyone makes mistakes and does things they are not proud of sometimes. Choose to focus on the positive and the good. Accept that sometimes times are tough and sometimes you will feel that you are too broken to ever function again. Take a moment… know that we are all made up of many facets… sometimes strong, motivated and invincible… other times fragile, demotivated and vulnerable. That’s OK and it’s all part of our life journey. Change is positive and evolution inevitable. Change is not always welcome or embraced but, when we look back, we see that it was the best way forward. So when something isn’t working for you – and it may well have served you well in the past – move on! Work out the difference between what you want and what you need. When you should compromise, and when you need to fight. Choose your battles wisely – think strategically, your aim is to win the war but to do that you don’t necessarily need to win all the battles! Be grateful and be mindful… Sometimes moments need to be enjoyed, sometimes endured, but inevitably the moment will pass, good or bad! We are all but small cogs in a big universe; our connections with others make us the people we aspire to be. Be kind and caring to those in need and they will be there for you in times of trouble too. Always keep in mind it is more important to have done one’s best than to be the best. Do you need some help to make your first step? Coach on the Couch, Alex Bailey Staines, is available by appointment for private consultations and motivational meetings.

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here are different types of people in the world, some of which are overtly easy to discern as unsafe, dangerous or abusive and those that are well disguised and are able to hide their negative and damaging side until in a relationship. One of the most problematic of these hidden, manipulative personality types is the narcissistic pervert. This may also be known as the perverse narcissistic or the pervert narcissistic. Regardless of the term used they are people that thrive on power and control over those around them.

A journey of a thousand miles starts with one small step…

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

The Impact of a Relationship with a Narcissistic Pervert

Coach on the Couch

Country house living at its very best

Tel: +44 (0)1225 742777 www.lucknampark.co.uk LUCKNAM PARK HOTEL & SPA, NR. BATH, SN14 8AZ

How to look bright-eyed and bushy-tailed (even if you don’t feel it) If waking up after a spirit-filled weekend leaves you looking more ghostly than glowing, don’t despair. These simple beauty tips to incorporate into your daily routine will guarantee you end up looking fresh, rested and probably better than you deserve to

WUNDERTOX & WUNDERLIFT both £19.95 www.wunder2.co.uk

Keep your make-up light – highlighter/ concealer is your best friend and will help make you look more awake – but stick to liquid formulas, such as Clinique’s All About Eyes Concealer that won’t crease or settle into fine lines. To counter the blue and purple tone of under-eye circles, use a yellow shade if you have light skin and an orange shade if you have darker skin. Add highlighter to the corner of your eyes; below the brow bone and on the centre of eyelids to divert dark shadows and make you look instantly more awake. Avoid smokey eyes – they will only make you look sleepy and heavy-lidded. Instead, line your waterline with a nude pencil to make them look brighter. Then apply eyeliner and mascara to the upper lashes, skipping the bottom lashes to prevent smudging and cast a shadow, further enhancing the bags under your eyes. Restore colour – brush a few extra swipes of bronzer all over the face to restore its natural sheen. And use a blusher with pink tones on the apples of your cheeks for a refreshed look. Moisturise those lips – combat dehydration and flakiness with a lip balm like Dior Addict Lip Glow to enhance the lips and bring out their natural colour. Apply alone, or team with a lipstick for even more radiant results.

Drag yourself into a warm shower and use Elemis Revitalise-Me Shower Gel with its refreshing citrus scent of essential oils to leave you feeling instantly rejuvenated. While you’re in there, use an exfoliating scrub, such as Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, to brighten your face, or try a face mask as a quick-fix for tired skin. Cleansing and purifying mask WUNDERTOX, which is packed full of antioxidants, starts as a treatment gel, then instantly turns to a lightweight foam that sinks into damp skin within minutes, transforming lacklustre skin into a radiant complexion full of life.

Brighter skin in a flash Slather on a hydrating moisturiser to banish dry skin and blotchiness. Alternatively, use a pick-me-up face primer in place of your moisturiser. Pop Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow Instant Soft-Focus Beauty Flash into your handbag and you can add a tiny amount to your cheekbones and brow bone throughout the day to perk up your complexion and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Wake up your eyes Tried and tested home remedies such as soothing cucumber slices, teabags — or even anti-haemorrhoid cream — will temporarily tighten the skin and relieve puffy eyes and don’t forget over-the-counter lubricating eye drops to provide relief from redness. Use an anti-wrinkle serum, like WUNDERLIFT 60-second wrinkle reducer, which releases mirco-fillers that gently penetrate and plump the surface of the skin to eliminate the appearance of puffiness and dark circles for up to eight hours. According to the experts, dark circles aren’t actually caused by lack of sleep, but rather the result of broken capillaries under your skin. And while the tightening serum gets to work, why not have a cup of green tea? It’s bursting with tannins and caffeine that help to constrict blood vessels and banish the racoon look. Follow our advice and you can ditch the sunglasses and hide the tell-tale signs of over-indulgence. But once you’ve made it through Monday, aim to get 8-10 hours of ‘beauty sleep’ for the next six nights to get your body clock back to its normal cycle.

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Make-up tips

Scrub up well

A BETTER WAY TO KEEP FIT There’s something for everyone at your local Better leisure centre. Activities include: • • • • • •

Gyms Swimming and swimming lessons Group exercise classes Birthday parties Racquet sports And much, much more

Why not try something new today?

For more information and to find your nearest Better centre visit www.better.org.uk

Not all activities are available at all centres. Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398

New School New You

aving your child off at the school gate for the first time can be exciting, even a relief, but can also be tinged with a little sadness. However, this can also be the start of something new for you. The school gate can give you a whole new life, new friends, activities and interests that you didn’t know existed before. Although it can all seem very overwhelming at first this will be the most significant part of your child’s life for the next seven years so enjoy and embrace the opportunities the school gate has to offer. For many people the Parent Teacher Association is a fulfilling way to meet other parents as well as help the school. A good hard working PTA can raise much needed funds for the school and often pays for the ‘icing on the cake’. Your children as well as the rest of the school will enjoy the important extras that the PTA pays for such as visiting theatre companies or extra PE equipment. There are events to organise such as the Christmas Bazaar, Quiz Night, May Ball and Summer Fayres. It’s also worth remembering that not all events need to be fund raising but can include opportunities to socialise such as family fun days or a good night out for the grown ups! Some of you may prefer to go into school on a regular basis to help out during the school day. Most schools welcome and appreciate your time and contributions. Many parents enjoy the opportunities to go into school and listen to readers, help out on school trips or with school events. If you can’t offer your time regularly then look out for the chance to offer specific help such as sharing your areas of interest and experiences. Maybe you could help out during Art Week or give a talk during Science Week. Your child will love seeing you as a visiting expert. However there are other ways you can help without having to go into the school and work with the children. If you have a particular talent or skill set then you may be invaluable to the head teacher or school office. Offering a service with a specific objective such as marketing, project management or grant research may not only raise thousands for the school but could also save them thousands as well as providing a service that the school is unable to meet itself. So as you wave your children goodbye at the school gate say hello to a new life for you and remember that not only would you be benefiting the children and whole school community but you will hopefully find it an enjoyable and very rewarding experience.

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By Our Education Expert Claire Quirk

Every Heathfield girl has verve! A character trait that we encourage as your daughter grows and develops into a confident young woman. As well as providing an excellent academic education coupled with top-class pastoral care, we help your daughter understand her unique strengths, live her ambitions, celebrate her talents and spirit and develop as the best version of herself. Live life like a Heathfield girl.

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Wednesday 4 October 6.30pm WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 14 October 10am to 12 noon To book, email registrar@heathfieldschool.net

Boarding and Day for Girls 11-18

heathfieldschool.net | +44 (0) 1344 898343

e’ve all heard the stories of young children demanding access to an iPad when they wake up – or witnessed in restaurants when NannyPhone comes out to entertain the kids. If you have children, you probably know how difficult it can be to get them to put devices down. Study after study suggests that children are spending too much time in front of screens and not enough time playing games or using their imagination. Is it something we should be worried about? In many ways, as adults, we need to set the example. If children see us constantly checking emails, looking at news, catching up on Facebook and using our devices to snap non-stop pics of kids, who can blame a child for seeing a device as desirable. Added to this, anyone who has, or looks after young kids, also understands that if you need to entertain kids – a quick game on a phone or tablet is one of the easiest ways to do so. It’s an easy fix that doesn’t require you to have a bag full of games and distractions. Part of the concern is what devices are doing to children – with overuse of technology being blamed on kids not being able to socialise together, on the need for instant gratification and whether devices are affecting mental happiness. While some, or all of this may be true, I also seem to remember that both game consoles and MTV were blamed for much the same thing when I was a child. And before that it was TV. And before that, it was comic books. And before that, it was pop music. And before that, it was something else. The way that kids interact today may well have changed. They may well spend more time using technology, but they are doing much of the same behaviour as they used to. They are using technology to be creative, to play and to socialise. They are learning how to shoot and edit video, they are learning how to code and just about anything else you want to learn from YouTube or the Internet. Learning how to use technology at a young age will benefit kids when they’re older. We all need to use computers in our daily lives – it’s a reality that is hard to escape. However, technology use does need to be limited. Clearly, no-one should be spending all day staring at a screen or not interacting with other people around them. But the limits have to come from parents and be something that the parents also follow. Children will learn how to interact with other people from their parents – so if you are spending all your time staring at a screen, your child will think that’s normal. Parents also need to be aware of what their children are doing on devices. There are plenty of built-in parental controls on devices which can be used to limit what kids use, and even when they are used. There are plenty of educational apps and services that can be used. Ultimately, it’s about encouraging positive use of technology and just being aware of what is going on. By Robert Haslam www.bigideasmachine.com

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Is Too Much Tech Damaging for Kids?

What to see Where to go selected by Jill Menghetti

Special Exhibitions Until Sunday 29 October Waddesdon Manor Buckinghamshire

This splendid Louis XI-style mansion was built in the 1870s for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to display his extensive collections and entertain fashionable guests. Current exhibitions, together with lovely autumnal gardens, make now an ideal time to visit the National Trust property. Power and Portraiture shows how Elizabeth I and courtiers promoted themselves in a dangerous world. It includes two Nicholas Hilliard paintings, complemented by Lucian Freud’s portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and Ann Carrington’s Pearly Queen of Shoreditch. Creatures and Creations, with contemporary collages and couture dresses, draws on Walter Rothschild’s ever-popular collection at nearby Natural History Museum in Tring. Aylesbury HP18 0JH 01296 820414, waddesdon.org.uk

The Best Man Until Saturday 23 September, Theatre Royal Windsor Monday 2-Saturday 7 October, Richmond Theatre

How far would you go to be the most powerful man in the world? Martin Shaw heads a starry cast in a pre-West End run for the UK premiere of Gore Vidal’s political thriller about the race for the White House. Two opposing presidential party candidates are neck and neck in an unscrupulous battle for the nomination. The only thing that separates the esteemed ex-Secretary of State and his newcomer populist opponent is an endorsement from a respected ex-President. But where does compromise end and corruption begin? And who in the end will prove to be “the best man”? 32 Thames Street SL4 1PS; 01753 853888, theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Little Green TW9 1QJ; 0844 871 7651, atgtickets.com/richmond

Flashdance – The Musical Monday 18-Saturday 23 September, New Theatre Oxford Monday 2-Saturday 7 October, New Wimbledon Theatre Monday 20-Saturday 25 November, Aylesbury Waterside

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What a feeling! In a joyous return to the 1980s, this musical about the power of holding on to your dreams and love against all odds is based on the original movie with its iconic score. Strictly Come Dancing winner Joanne Clifton plays 18-yearold Alex. A welder by day and “flashdancer” by night, she dreams of going to the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy and becoming a professional dancer. When romance complicates her ambitions, she harnesses it to drive her dream. Ben Adams joins Jo as Nick on the UK tour. George Street OX1 2AG; 0844 871 3020, atgtickets.com/oxford The Broadway SW19 1QG, 0844 871 7646, atgtickets.com/wimbledon Exchange Street HP20 1UG; 0844 871 7627, atgtickets.com/aylesbury

The Real Thing Tuesday 3-Saturday 14 October, Rose Theatre Kingston Monday 6-Saturday 11 November, Yvonne Arnaud Guildford

24-26 High Street KT1 1HL; 020 8174 0090, rosetheatrekingston.org Millbrook GU1 3UX; 01483 440000, yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

A Woman of No Importance Friday 6 October-Saturday 30 December Vaudeville Theatre London

New company Classic Spring rediscovers Oscar Wilde with his four great Victorian plays which shocked and redefined British theatre and still resonate today. First up is this play, directed by Dominic Dromgoole, former artistic director of the Globe, and starring Eve Best as the respectable widow with a disreputable past, Eleanor Bron, William Gaunt and Anne Reid. Dromgoole has formed the company to celebrate the groundbreaking work of proscenium playwrights in the architecture for which they wrote. The Oscar Wilde season continues with Lady Windermere’s Fan, An Ideal Husband and The Importance of Being Earnest. 404 Strand WC2R 0NH 0330 333 4814, classicspring.co.uk

Private View of Formula 1 Paintings Wednesday 11 October, 6-8pm Sicily Restaurant London

Marking Ferrari’s 70th anniversary, the exciting car racing paintings and drawings of renowned portrait artist Patrick Faure-Spinetta are showcased in London for the first time. This is a unique opportunity to see artworks that depict legends of the sport, to meet fellow fine art and car enthusiasts, relax and enjoy great Italian food and drinks. Featured are Enzo Ferrari, Sebastian Vettel, Kimi Raikkonen, and the famous Ferrari F2015, which marked the renewal of Scuderia Ferrari. The exclusive by-reservation one-night event is part of a series of shows that are being presented in Europe and the United States. 2a Elizabeth Street SW1W 9RB For RSVP contact robert@eatatsicily.com

Dog Day Afternoon Saturday 14 October 11am-5pm Cabbages & Frocks Market London

Dog-lovers won’t be able to resist amazing displays by the Good Boy Dog School, headed by Dima and doggy dance partners George and Teddy, as seen on Britain’s Got Talent. Free woofy competitions include tricks, waggy tail, miniatures and toy breeds, matching pairs, best puppy, and oldies but goodies. Also on hand will be pet portrait artist Claire Thorogood and trainer Rob Alleyne, author of The Trouble-free Dog, from BBC3’s Dog Borstal. There’ll be fashion and vintage stalls, plus the latest in canine couture and accessories. Why not match your bag or belt to your dog’s beaded collar and lead? St Marylebone parish church grounds, Marylebone High Street W1U 5BA cabbagesandfrocks.co.uk

Magical Museum Sleepover Saturday 21-Sunday 22 October 7pm-9pm V&A Museum of Childhood London

Something different for half-term, designed for sixto 12-year-olds. An evening of fun creative activities, storytelling and a magical trail after dark, followed by a special night’s sleep in the company of fairies, puppets, dolls and trains. Next morning there’ll be breakfast on the Marble Floor before the museum opens to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and you’ll need to take a snack for later in the evening, together with a sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. The museum houses a fascinating collection of childhood-related objects and artefacts dating from the 1600s to the present day. Cambridge Heath Road E2 9PA vam.ac.uk/moc/events/magical-museum-sleepover

Son of a Preacher Man Tuesday 24-Saturday 28 October, New Theatre Oxford Tuesday 14-Saturday 18 November, New Wimbledon Theatre Tuesday 28 November-Saturday 2 December, Wycombe Swan

Featuring the soulful music of Dusty Springfield, with a book by Warner Brown and directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, this new musical promises to have us laughing, crying and singing our hearts out to some of the greatest songs ever written: The Look Of Love, I Only Want To Be With You, Spooky and of course, Son Of A Preacher Man. Debra Stephenson creates the role of Alison in a funny and touching tale of three random strangers, generations apart but all in need of help with their hopeless love lives… George Street OX1 2AG; 0844 871 3020, atgtickets.com/oxford The Broadway SW19 1QG; 0844 871 7646, atgtickets.com/wimbledon St Mary Street HP11 2XE; 01494 512 000, wycombeswan.co.uk

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Laurence Fox stars in Tom Stoppard’s modern classic, a clever, poignant and entertaining drama about love and infidelity which combines witty wordplay with some of Stoppard’s most tender and touching writing. Successful playwright Henry is married to Charlotte, playing the lead in his current play about adultery. Her co-star Max is married to Annie, also an actor. When Henry’s affair with Annie threatens to destroy his own marriage, he realises life has started imitating art. But are they really in love? This is a co-production between the Rose Theatre, Theatre Royal Bath and Cambridge Arts Theatre.

Cézanne Portraits Thursday 26 October-Sunday 11 February National Portrait Gallery London

Picture: Boy in a Red Waistcoat (1888-90) by Paul Cézanne. National Gallery of Art, Washington

Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne (1839-1906) is regarded as one of the most influential artists of the 19th century. The Cubists, Fauvists and successive generations of avant-garde artists were all influenced by his analytical approach to nature and his unique method of building form with colour. So this exhibition is sure to be a hit as it brings together for the first time more than 50 of his portraits from collections across the world, including works never before on public display in the UK. It will include the remarkable portraits of his Uncle Dominique, dating from the 1860s. St Martin’s Place WC2H 0HE 020 7766 7344, npg.org.uk

Matilda the Empress Thursday 2-Saturday 18 November St James’s Church Reading

Beth Flintoff’s new play follows on from her successful Henry I of England, telling the powerful story of his only remaining legitimate child. It gives a fascinating glimpse of what Reading town would have been like almost 1,000 years ago, and introduces one of the most formidable females in history, who had a lifelong battle against gender inequality. Matilda gave her father the fabled hand of St James at Reading, which led to the naming of the church where the play will be performed, and drew thousands of visitors to the Abbey (currently undergoing a multi-million pound regeneration).

Abdullah Ibrahim and Hugh Masekela revisit their days in 1950s South Africa, while there’s a brand-new project from Marcus Miller and a special concert for the 90th birthday of Jobim with his songbook interpreted by Carminho. Other gigs include a visit from Gipsy Kings & Chico, the infectious energy of Harlem Gospel Choir touching down from New York, and Paolo Conte’s powerful blend of jazz and tango rhythms. efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk

Cowardy Custard Wednesday 8-Saturday 11 November New Wimbledon Studio Theatre

Featuring the words and music of Noël Coward, this revue was originally devised as an affectionate 70th birthday tribute to the Master and first staged in 1972. Now Torch Theatre performs an imaginative and innovative presentation of his achievements, which also shows us something of the man himself. The show includes snippets of plays and dialogues, material from his autobiographies and even a few of his poems. There are scenes from several of Coward’s brilliant comedies, while classic medleys and duets demonstrate his wide musical range, from the comic to the romantic and lyrical, to blues and jazz. The Broadway SW19 1QG 0844 871 7646, atgtickets.com/Wimbledon

Abbot’s Walk, Forbury Gardens RG1 3HW www.readingbetweenthelines.co.uk

Living with the Gods

What to see Where to go

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Opens Thursday 2 November British Museum London

Celebrated author Neil MacGregor and his documentary programmes have become renowned for their unique way of telling stories through objects. This important exhibition supports his new panoramic history of belief being broadcast on Radio 4 over six weeks from 23 October. Objects in the exhibition include the prehistoric Lion Man ivory sculpture, thought to be between 35,000 and 40,000 years old. It’s the fourth collaboration between the museum, MacGregor and Radio 4, following on from Germany: Memories of a Nation (2015), Shakespeare’s Restless World (2012) and A History of the World in 100 Objects (2010). Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG 020 7323 8299, britishmuseum.org

EFG London Jazz Festival Friday 10-Sunday 19 November Various venues

Celebrating 25 years of the festival, a bumper line-up includes a wealth of international legends, with new music, emerging British stars and outstanding collaborations all added into the mix.

War Horse Wednesday 13 December-Saturday 6 January New Theatre Oxford

Following eight record-record breaking years in the West End and having played in 11 countries to more than seven million people, the National Theatre’s acclaimed production begins a UK tour this autumn and lands in Oxford for the festive season – so book up early! Young Albert’s beloved horse Joey is sold to the Cavalry and shipped to France at the outbreak of World War One. He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey. Albert, not old enough to enlist, embarks on a treacherous mission to bring him home. George Street, Oxford OX1 2AG 0844 847 1585, atgtickets.com/venues/new-theatre-oxford

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The Script To Screen 98 the riverside journals

Steve Oliver is a veteran film aficionado, having been involved in the world of feature films most of his life. His experiences, carved from an established career of 35 years in the heart of the film industry, gave him an opportunity to follow films from the script to the screen and with that a chance to be involved in the distribution of some of the biggest and most amazing films of the past three decades. Steve believes a great film must come from a great writer or script, and has assembled a noteworthy list of those films with pedigree expected to a screen near you soon...

22nd September

Borg Vs McEnroe Director JANUS METZ / Writer RONNIE SANDAHL

It’s the summer of 1980 and Björn Borg (Sverrir Gudnason) is the top tennis player in the world, dominating the sport both on and off the court. A powerful and rigorously disciplined player, there is only one obstacle in his pursuit of a record-breaking fifth Wimbledon championship: the highly talented but ferociously abrasive young American, John McEnroe (a perfectly cast Shia LaBeouf). With three days until the tournament begins, Borg trains religiously in his lavish Monaco home, aided by his coach and mentor Lennart (Stellan Skarsgård) and girlfriend Mariana (Tuva Novotny). But McEnroe’s explosive confidence and wrecking-ball persona continue to infiltrate Borg’s ice-cool and normally unshakable temperament. With each man the antithesis of the other, both players delve into their formative memories as the climactic tournament draws near and anticipation reaches fever pitch. Visceral and breathlessly tense, the match itself – regarded as one of the greatest of all time – would mark the pinnacle of the ‘Fire and Ice’ rivalry between Borg and McEnroe; an exhilarating battle of personalities that set the world of tennis alight.

The Kingsman – The Golden Circle Director Matthew Vaughn / Writer Jane Goldman

“Kingsman: The Secret Service” introduced the world to Kingsman – an independent, international intelligence agency operating at the highest level of discretion, whose ultimate goal is to keep the world safe. In “Kingsman: The Golden Circle,” our heroes face a new challenge. When their headquarters are destroyed and the world is held hostage, their journey leads them to the discovery of an allied spy organization in the US called Statesman, dating back to the day they were both founded. In a new adventure that tests their agents’ strength and wits to the limit, these two elite secret organizations band together to defeat a ruthless common enemy, in order to save the world, something that’s becoming a bit of a habit for Eggsy… 29th September

Brimstone Director / Writer Martin Koolhoven

Brimstone is a suspenseful tale of guilt and retribution that unfolds at the end of the 19th century in the American West. An epic thriller told in four chapters, about a young woman and her family, whose lives change drastically when a diabolical preacher comes to town. Starring Dakota Fanning (War of the Worlds, The Secret Life of Bees) and the Emmy-award winner Guy Pearce (Memento), following a young woman’s epic quest for survival. Our heroine is Liz (Fanning), a young and beautiful woman who is being hunted by a vengeful Preacher (Pearce) – a diabolical extremist and her nemesis. But Liz is a genuine survivor; she’s no victim but instead a woman of fearsome strength who responds with astonishing bravery to claim the better life she and her daughter deserve.

Manolo: The Boy who made shoes for Lizards Director Michael Roberts/ Documentary

This is the story of how a boy growing up on an isolated Spanish island became the world’s most influential shoe designer. The film reveals how Manolo Blahnik’s love for his craft, and each and every one of the shoes he creates, drives his artistry. More than simply a celebration of shoe design, the documentary opens a window on Manolo’s vibrant inner world, serving as a gripping character study on a man whose name is ubiquitous but who remains largely a mystery. The film features Manolo himself, with Anna Wintour, Rihanna, Naomi Campbell, Iman, Rupert Everett, Sofia Coppola, André Leon Talley, Paloma Picasso, Eva Herzogiva and John Galliano amongst others. 6th October

The Mountain Between Us Director Hany Abu-Assad / Writers J. Mills Goodloe, Charles Martin Chris Weitz

Stranded after a tragic plane crash, two strangers must forge a connection to survive the extreme elements of a remote snow covered mountain. When they realize help is not coming, they embark on a perilous journey across hundreds of miles of wilderness, pushing one another to endure and discovering strength they never knew possible.

13th October

The Snowman Director Tomas Alfredson / Writers Hossein Amini Peter Straughan

Michael Fassbender (X-Men series), Rebecca Ferguson (Mission: Impossible—Rogue Nation), Charlotte Gainsbourg (Independence Day: Resurgence), Val Kilmer (Heat) and Academy Award® J.K. Simmons (Whiplash) star in The Snowman, a terrifying thriller from director Tomas Alfredson (Let the Right One In, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), based on Jo Nesbø’s global bestseller. When an elite crime squad’s lead detective (Fassbender) investigates the disappearance of a victim on the first snow of winter, he fears an elusive serial killer may be active again. With the help of a brilliant recruit (Ferguson), the cop must connect decades-old cold cases to the brutal new one if he hopes to outwit this unthinkable evil before the next snowfall.

Loving Vincent Director Hugh Welchman & Dorota Kobiela / Writers Jacek Dehnel, Dorota Kobiela, Hugh Welchman

LOVING VINCENT is a stunning, fully painted animated feature, starring Douglas Booth and Oscar-nominated Saoirse Ronan and directed by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman. It explores the life and controversial death of Vincent Van Gogh, told by his paintings and by the characters that inhabit them. The intrigue unfolds through interviews with the characters closest to Vincent and through dramatic reconstructions of the events leading up to his death. This the world’s first fully painted feature film, bringing the paintings of Vincent van Gogh to life to tell his remarkable story. Every frame of the film is an oil-painting hand-painted by 125 professional oil-painters who travelled from around the world to the Loving Vincent studios in Poland and Greece to be a part of the production. 27th October

Breathe Director Andy Serkis / Writer William Nicholson

Claire Foy and Andrew Garfield lead this drama, which tells the story of an adventurous young man who is struck by Polio in his late 20s. Paralysed and only able to breathe with the help of a machine, he defies his doctors, who give him months to live, by travelling the world. Supporting cast includes Hugh Bonneville and Tom Hollander.

Call Me By Your Name Director Luca Guadagnino / Writers James Ivory, Walter Fasano

It’s the summer of 1983 in the north of Italy, and Elio Perlman (Timothée Chalamet), a precocious 17-year-old American-Italian boy, spends his days in his family’s 17th century villa transcribing and playing classical music, reading, and flirting with his friend Marzia (Esther Garrel). Elio enjoys a close relationship with his father (Michael Stuhlbarg), an eminent professor specializing in GrecoRoman culture, and his mother Annella (Amira Casar), a translator, who favour him with the fruits of high culture in a setting that overflows with natural delights. While Elio’s sophistication and intellectual gifts suggest he is already a fully-fledged adult, there is much that yet remains innocent and unformed about him, particularly about matters of the heart. One day, Oliver (Armie Hammer), a charming American scholar working on his doctorate, arrives as the annual summer intern tasked with helping Elio’s father. Amid the sun-drenched splendour of the setting, Elio and Oliver discover the heady beauty of awakening desire over the course of a summer that will alter their lives forever. 3rd November

Murder on the Orient Express Director Kenneth Branagh / Writer Michael Green

What starts out as a lavish train ride through Europe quickly unfolds into one of the most stylish, suspenseful and thrilling mysteries ever told. From the novel by best-selling author Agatha Christie, “Murder on the Orient Express” tells the tale of thirteen strangers stranded on a train, where everyone’s a suspect. One man must race against time to solve the puzzle before the murderer strikes again. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast including Penélope Cruz, Willem Dafoe, Judi Dench, Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Daisy Ridley and Josh Gad. 10th November

The Florida Project Director Sean Baker / Writer Chris Bergoch

Professor Marston and the Wonder Women Director & Writer Angela Robinson

The unconventional life story of Dr William Marston, Harvard psychologist and inventor, and the relationship between his wife and his lover, who became her lover after his death, that inspired the iconic super heroine Wonder Woman.

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Halley and her 6-year-old daughter Moonee live in a motel that’s managed by Bobby, a man whose stern exterior hides a deep reservoir of kindness and compassion. Despite her harsh surroundings, the precocious and ebullient Moonee has no trouble making each day a celebration of life. Her endless afternoons overflow with mischief and grand adventure, while her mother soon finds herself exploring increasingly dangerous options as a way to keep them both alive.

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Winter Art & Antiques Fair, Olympia

31 October – 5 November

he acclaimed Winter Art & Antiques Fair Olympia returns to London this October for its 27th year. Running from 31st October until 5th November, it is the flagship art and antiques event of the British winter season. One hundred of the UK’s very best dealers will be offering an incredible array of over 30,000 one-off, diverse and truly original pieces – all within the iconic setting of London Olympia. The fair is an inspiring destination for home owners and interior designers as well as seasoned collectors. It is particularly popular with those looking for unusual, not-on-the-high-street Christmas gifts. The six-day event is expected to attract over 20,000 shoppers from the UK and internationally, all looking to buy works priced from £100 to hundreds of thousands of pounds. Ranging from signed jewellery, artwork, furniture, ceramics, glassware, clocks, fossils, textiles, mirrors, silver and sculpture – the Fair will host an amazing choice of pieces that is sure to inspire the experienced buyer or the first time follower. Mary Claire Boyd, Fair Director says: “The Winter Art & Antiques Fair Olympia has become an important event for the winter arts season, attracting consumers and trade alike. The Fair also runs at the same time as Asian Art in London when major collectors descend on London. The diversity of pieces on sale from our dealers is extraordinary and ranges from diamonds to dining tables and from lanterns to Lalique. “Interest in antique furniture appears to be increasing as interior fashion favours an eclectic mixture of old and new. These pieces provide long lasting durability and many years of pleasure to live with.” It is the only fair in the UK to work in association with the top two trade associations, BADA (The British Antiques Dealers’ Association) and LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers). There is a very strict vetting process in place whereby everything is checked by independent experts to ensure that every piece for sale is genuine and correctly labelled. There is a complimentary interiors and arts talks programme and highlight tours from an independent art advisor. Both are included within the ticket price. Anthea Gesua from Anthea A G Antiques is one of the UK’s top specialists in gem set jewellery from the likes of Boucheron, Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels, and has exhibited at the Fair for many years. She says: “The Winter Olympia Fair has always had a special slot as the last London fair of the year and offers visitors a great mix of period through to later items with a real feel of a true antiques fair. We are looking forward to meeting new, and old, clients there again.” Patrick Sandberg Antiques are experts in late 18th and early 19th Century English furniture and bronze and ormolu works of art. Patrick Sandberg says: “Business is always brisk at the Winter Art & Antiques Fair Olympia. We have exhibited there ever since its inception and it is a great event that attracts good clients and has a lovely atmosphere. The Winter evenings really do make the Fair sparkle.”

Ticket prices for Preview day are £30 while standard advance admission is £15* and £20 on the door. The Winter Art & Antiques Fair Olympia will take place at the Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX. For more information visit www.olympia-antiques.com

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From 4pm until 9pm on Tuesday 31st October, there will be an exclusive Preview Event where visitors can have a first view of the incredible array of pieces on offer.

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Calling all business owners

hat if we told you that you could be sitting on an opportunity that could help transform your business and set you on the path to success? Thousands of business owners around the country are losing out on potential sales and instant financial gains – How? They own commercial and industrial sites in the centre of towns and villages; sites that do not add value to the business and can hinder its growth. The increased success of internet sales, shopping centres and supermarkets is making it increasingly difficult for retailers and merchants in commercial buildings and industrial sites to compete. Family owned businesses are struggling to stay afloat and landlords often cannot find new tenants. In fact, in the first half of 2016, as many as 15 high street’s shops closed every day and the number of new openings fell to its lowest level for more than five years. While a prime location in the centre of a town or village was vital to achieving success, changes in consumer spending habits in the last two decades have changed the rules of the game. Today, many of the companies that own these locations are now better suited to retail parks, which offer both competitive prices and on-site parking. Industrial sites and commercial properties with multiple floors have the highest potential. These second-floor spaces are often seen as a by-product of business operations and are not utilized. However, while it may appear that the bulk of the property’s value lies in the bottom floor, today that is simply not the case. Nearly a quarter of a million homes in the UK lie empty – wasting both space and money. By transforming these commercial properties and industrial sites into residential spaces, the population in the area will grow. This will lead to more business for companies in the area, especially those who have acquired loyal customers. Are you the owner of a commercial property or industrial site in a town or village centre? If you are, then it may be time for you to find out what potential opportunities await you and your business. At SJD Projects, we advise property owners like yourself on the potential of your site and introduce you to property developers looking to add to their portfolio. If you have any concerns about moving the location of your business, we can also find you a new space in which your business can thrive – especially with your newly acquired funds.

How you could be sitting on an opportunity of a lifetime

Contact Stephen Donnelly at steve@sjd-projects.com today to find out more information. Our advice is free of charge and, in most cases, the developer will cover all the relevant fees.

sJd – developing potential If you think your property could be developed, why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence. Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs.

Call us now

twitter.com/projects

Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 0845 456 8969

web: sjd-projects.com • email: steve@sjd-projects.com

We are alWays on the lookout for property With development potential SJD-Half (Alt) 190x133.indd 1

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for regular updates, visit us at

18 King Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1EF - 01628 624 546 1A Brickwall Lane, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 8JR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01895 621 651

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Tribute A homage to Hästens 165 year history

ince 1852, Hästens has been committed to crafting sleep, with the finest handmade beds. To celebrate its 165-year history Hästens has created Tribute – a special edition of the acclaimed Hästens Luxuria with an exclusive new taupe check fabric. The special edition Tribute, features a new fabric, Taupe check, using a new special weaving technique to bring a deep, textural hand feel. The inspiration behind Hästens Tribute bed comes from Hästens’ long history and roots as a master saddlemaker. The combination of the fabric and its discrete colour tones result in a rustic surface structure reminiscent of the heavy decorative drapes of the 1800s. “The production process for a new fabric is always complex. Each time we develop a new design it has to fit into our existing design DNA naturally. We have chosen Taupe as a colour and the fabric’s special weaving technique as a symbol for our history and way we use only natural material. The new fabric’s colour composition reminds us of the cotton, wool, flax and pine within a Hästens bed,” says Perla Munhoz, research and development manager at Hästens. Hästens Tribute bed has an exclusive name plaque and four edge legs in oak and aluminium. “We are a company that has been running for 165 years. With Hästens Tribute we are referencing our future and our legacy at the same time, with a contemporary colourway drawn from our humble beginnings.” finishes Munhoz. Since 1852, Hästens has handcrafted the finest beds from its atelier in Köping, Sweden. Every Hästens bed is handmade using only premium sustainable natural materials and techniques handed down through six generations.

Hästens Tribute + BJ Top Mattress 180 x 210 Material: Made from 100% cotton in a jacquard weave, Hästens has created a unique new taupe check, that is nuanced colourway, easy to style and blend in with any bedroom setting. Only available from September 1st to 31st December, 2017.

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Hästens Fitzrovia 66-68 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SR 0207 436 0646 – 0207 436 0654 fitzrovia@hastensstores.com Hastens.com

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Taplow Riverside Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire Berkeley Homes

ith an exclusive waterfront location along the River Thames and Jubilee River, Taplow Riverside is an exciting new development offering a range of new and refurbished luxury houses, apartments and penthouses. Surrounded by large areas of open space with beautiful meadows and picnic areas, these homes sit in a truly unique location. Alexander James Interior Design have designed the interiors for both the 4-bedroom show home at Jubilee Meadows and the 2-bedroom show apartment at Jubilee Mill.

Comment from Stacey Sibley, Creative Director of Alexander James Interior Design: “Taplow Riverside has an established feel that will appeal to residents from the surrounding villages, those wishing to downsize and those looking for a refined lifestyle, outside of London. The show home is a 4-bedroom property suitable for families, downsizers and professional couples – this is a popular area for those wanting to downsize from the surrounding rural areas and professionals coming out of London due to Crossrail connectivity. We maximized the space in the hallway using mirrors to create a grand entrance, enhanced by bespoke joinery. This then flowed into the first reception room on the ground floor, being the kitchen/dining/family space. Keeping all the joinery of the same style and colour palette, provided a greater flow. Accessories were also used such as oars as a hint to the river Thames and pictures of Maidenhead for local feel. The pictures were used as a device on the staircase to encourage the journey to each floor and the colour palette extracted elements from the outside environment with blues and greys which blended well with the warmer metallic and elements of the river and woodland surrounding. In the lounge we used warm metallics to create an impression of age and calm fabrics with lots of movement for an established feel and river influence. In the master bedroom we again used a warmer palette, linked by the blue green elements of the riverside to create a calm relaxing master suite. With sumptuous velvets and silks, together with delicate watercolor washed prints and pure wool throws, the master suite provides a relaxing sanctuary at the end of a busy day.”

www.berkeleygroup.co.uk/new-homes/buckinghamshire/taplow/taplow-riverside £650,000 - £2,125,000

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Having grown up in Taplow, AJI Managing Director Robert Walker and Sales Director Laurence Walker have fond memories of the Skindles Hotel and the Valbonne nightclub that once stood at Maidenhead Bridge. With feelings of nostalgia, they were thrilled to be a part of the exciting development at a site that held such great memories for them. Show homes are available to view now. The Marketing Suite is open 7 days a week 10am-5pm. Please contact the Marketing Suite on 01753 336 121 for further information.

Ride the range at Wildcatter Ranch

The best of cowboys and culture in Texas 110 the riverside journals

Ruth Brindle combines ranch relaxation and city life

As I sit in my rocking chair looking out over the tranquil north Texas hill country with its cacti, mesquite, oak and juniper trees leading down to the Brazos River I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but feel the rich history of this area.

The longhorn herd at Fort Worth’s Stockyards

Wildcatter Ranch, Texas

hile the story of the American west has been told in films such as The Searchers, The Sons of Katie Elder and the TV series Lonesome Dove, this is where it was really played out – pioneers and outlaws, cattle drives, Indian settlements, buffalo hunts and oil exploration. This adds an extra dimension to staying on the gorgeous Wildcatter Ranch in Graham, not least because owners Anne Street Skipper and her brother Glenn Street’s great grandfather Colonel E.S.Graham first bought the land in 1870 and founded the town that takes his name. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Fort Worth and makes an ideal place to test out your own cowboy skills, www.wildcatterranch.com The 16 luxury suites are built in the style of cabins with a porch. One evening, as if on cue, I heard coyotes howling out in the brush. It was exciting but sends a shiver down your spine. Also the cabin names such as Brazos Indian Reservation, Warren Wagon Train and Elm Creek Raid truly reflect the area’s past. It’s so relaxing and the temptation is to do very little, but if you want to channel your true cowboy instincts try riding and shooting – both shotguns and bows and arrows. I loved it. The ranch restaurant’s house speciality, mesquite-grilled steak, is a required treat. During my 48 hours on the ranch I enjoyed a trail ride on horseback and in a jeep through the 1,500 acres of north Texas hill country, negotiating rugged hill terrain learning about the wildlife from Nick my Stetson wearing guide. I even fed the impressive Longhorn cattle. There are ultra-modern comforts here too, such as an infinity pool, jacuzzi and massages offered in a cabana nearby. This is a place I’d love to come back to, it has a special atmosphere and the staff are so friendly and treat you more like friends than guests. But even cities in Texas have their fair share of cowboy experiences on offer. Check out what’s on offer from Fort Worth and Dallas that are within easy driving distance of each other and from Wildcatter Ranch.

For cowboys

For culture

Book in to the cowboy heart of Fort Worth at the historic Stockyards Hotel, where Bonnie and Clyde once stayed, www.stockyardshotel.com

In Fort Worth: The Kimbell Art Museum is known as America’s best small museum, www.kimbellart.org. The Modern Art Museum’s stunning building includes works by Bacon, Picasso, Pollock and Warhol. Superb brunch at Café Modern, www.themodern.org

Watch a cattle drive, buy a cowboy hat and experience everything cowboy in the Stockyards National Historic District, www.fortworthstockyards.org

Wildcatter suite

Visit Billy Bob’s Texas, the biggest honky tonk in the state for country music, bull riding, line dancing, arcades and much more, www.billybobstexas.com Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were regular Fort Worth visitors. Walk in their footsteps in Sundance Square, www.sundancesquare.com Study the Chisholm Trail Mural in Downtown. Enjoy thrills and spills of modern-day cowboys at the spectacular, once-a-year Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, www.fwssr.com

Sixth Floor Museum Dallas

In Dallas: stay at The Magnolia Hotel and enjoy its art deco beauty, www.magnoliahotels.com Get a stunning 360-degree view of the city from the GeO-Deck at Reunion Tower, www.reuniontower.com Take an easy walk to see the Pegasus at the Omni Dallas, the John F.Kennedy Memorial, the former warehouse district of West End, Thanksgiving Square, The Eye sculpture and the flagship Neiman Marcus store. The fascinating Sixth Floor Museum reveals all about the JFK assassination. 2017 marks the 100th anniversary of his birth, www.jfk.org

Learn about Annie Oakley at the National Cowgirl Museum, www.cowgirl.net

The 68-acre Dallas Arts District is a pleasure. At the Nasher Sculpture Centre there are more than 300 masterpieces, www.nashersculpturecenter.org

In Dallas take a picture in Pioneer Plaza among the bronze sculptures of cattle to honour those early settlers.

Across the road is the equally awesome Dallas Museum of Art, www.dma.org

Visit Old Red Courthouse Museum for the story of Dallas County from prehistoric times to J.R.Ewing and beyond. If you love American sport watch the Dallas Cowboys football team play, www.dallascowboys.com

Klyde Warren Park is built above a six-lane motorway, dine at Savor restaurant and watch the action, www.klydewarrenpark.org Two great areas for dining and nightlife are Trinity Groves, www.trinitygroves.com and Deep Ellum, www.deepellumtexas.com

Modern Art Museum Fort Worth

Texas Cowboys and Culture

Price based on two people sharing. For more information contact 020 8742 8299, sales@americaasyoulikeit.com or visit www.americaasyoulikeit.com Magnolia Hotel Dallas

To find out more about Texas, visit www.traveltexas.com, www.fortworth.com and www.visitdallas.com

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From £2,119 per person, including return flights from London Heathrow to Dallas Fort Worth (on BA), seven days fully inclusive economy car hire, two nights room only at the Stockyards Hotel, Fort Worth, three nights full board, including all activities at the Wildcatter Ranch and two nights room only at the Magnolia Hotel, Dallas.

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Designing successful small gardens Lighting, the basic do’s and don’ts

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ighting is an important consideration in a garden if you want to use it in the evenings. I am increasingly asked by my clients to incorporate lighting into their garden scheme especially in town gardens where the smaller spaces have to work extra hard and often through antisocial hours. In our opinion, LED lights are invaluable. They are both long lived and cost effective to run and work well as recessed lights in paving and decking where they can highlight steps and changes in level on or around the house. Used carefully they also work well to highlight pots and planters. Generally you need to think of these as feature lights; they won’t give you enough light to dine out or entertain by but used in combination with other lights in the garden they help to create a pleasing picture. It is amazing how much it takes to highlight a plant or tree successfully. Up-lights; i.e. those lights that are ground mounted, are the best for highlighting plants. Yucca, Phormium, Dicksonia, Phyllostachys and Trachycarpus all look dramatic when up-lit at night. The light diffuses up the plant and softly away into the night, which means that the light does not cast great halos into the dark sky. In town settings urban light pollution is a problem for migrating birds, bats and insects and so consideration has to be put to these things too, as well as to neighbouring properties. If you wish to dine by light outside then the kindest way of doing this is by candlelight. A soft and flickering glow around a table casts a warmer and more inviting light than artificial light and can always be combined with a Citronella scent to keep biting insects at bay. Tea lights in little holders make excellent marker points through a garden for special occasions and a good old-fashioned hurricane lamp is hard to beat. Money speaks volumes with garden lighting and paying for a good light fitting such as those made by Hunza, Collingwood or Aurora will return dividends in the longevity of their use. Inexpensive fittings can be more trouble than they are worth and in a garden setting where water and electricity have to mix I would always rather pay for peace of mind. Kate Gould is an award winning garden designer based in Hertfordshire. A regular exhibitor at the Chelsea Flower Show where she has been awarded four gold medals and three best in shows, Kate specialises in transforming gardens and outdoor spaces across London and the Home Counties. Kate will be speaking at ‘The Landscape Show’ in September where she will be giving a talk entitled ‘Beautiful Balconies’. Visit www.kategouldgardens.com for more info

Alison Tyldesley, Windswept Goldan Moorland, The Linda Blackstone Gallery

Affordable Art Fair

Pam Carter, Rum On The Horizon, The Art Agency

Michele Mikesell, Arizona Tumbleweed, Decorazon Gallery

ith the art season in full swing, hot young talent will join household names as the Affordable Art Fair returns to leafy Battersea this October 19th-22nd. The four-day event will see a diverse line-up of artists showcasing a mix of contemporary paintings, editioned prints, sculptures and photography, all priced between just £100-£6,000 – so there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Among those showing at the fair will be Italian digital print artist Dito von Tease, whose playful celebrity portraits will be available through Ingo Fincke gallery over the weekend. Guests will also be able to pick up works by Great Pottery Throwdown contestant Nam Tran, who will be showing his Ego Man series through Mint Art Gallery. Elsewhere, moving portraits from artist Giovanni Cocco, of his sister Monia, will be available from Arte Globale gallery, whilst Lisa Norris Gallery will be bringing innovative works by textiles artist Sonja Weber. As well as investing in stunning contemporary art, visitors can get involved in some of the innovative workshops and tours set to take place at the fair. For those looking to get in touch with their creative side, Central Saint Martins will be hosting free short courses on collage, drawing and idea generation across the four days. And for expert tips on how to buy artwork, the team at London Art Salon will be offering insights on How to Own a Hirst, whilst CSM curator Andrew Marsh will be demystifying the art world and art market in his Saturday talk. Arts journalist Melissa Scallon will also be hosting a Tour du Jour each day showcasing exciting works of photography and sculpture from across the fair, as well as picking out highlights for below £500. Artichoke printmakers will also be returning to the fair with their hugely popular print workshops, to be hosted in the print studio throughout the weekend for the whole family to enjoy. For a first look at all the art on offer, this year’s charity preview will take place on Wednesday 18th October from 5.30-9.30pm in support of Imperial Health Charity. The Affordable Art Fair Battersea opens its doors to the public on Thursday 19th October and runs until Sunday 22nd October.

Tickets 114 the riverside journals

Weekday Adult: Advance £10/Door £12 – Concessions: Advance £8/Door £10 Weekend Adult: Advance £12/Door £15 – Concessions: Advance £10/Door £13 Free entry for children under 16 accompanied by an adult Nam Tran, Ego Man Raku, Mint Art Gallery

Tickets are available now from: affordableartfair.com/fairs/battersea-autumn

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