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Winter 2008

Take a look inside......

Dear readers

Films to see this winter

Warming recipes, tasty indulgences, star buys, party frocks and Christmas gift ideas are just some of the fabulous treats EY has in store for you in this Winter 2008 edition.

If you are doing up your home, take a peak at our DIY section, or peruse the home style for this season’s stylish beds.

Enter our competitions, for your chance to win a meal for two at a prestigious West London restaurant.

If you’re looking for a new wardrobe, take on some of Gok’s advice before buying those must-have fashion pieces for this season. Take a glimpse at what’s in fashion and gain inspiration from the winter trends to complete your look.

Searching for somewhere to get away to? Go as far as North Carolina or look much closer to home and visit Brighton for a spot of shopping or traditional fish and chips.

Check out what’s happening in the coming months, to get you out and about or keep you cosy and warm.

And, last but not least, try some lovely recipes to get your taste buds tingling and keep you warm on those cold winter nights.

Lauren Dunne

EY Editor

Contents.....

Most wanted Christmas toys

Homes and Gardens

5-14

Top Christmas toys

41

Fashion

15-19

Travel

44-49

Beauty

22-27

Out and About

51-56

Weddings

28-32

Staying in

Health

34-36

Fine Dining

Film Celebrity

37 39-40

57 58-62

Motors

64

Classifieds

66-67

To advertise in the next edition of EY contact......

HARROW 01895451000 Winter treats and warming dishes

UXBRIDGE 01895451000

EALING 02085793131

To get in touch with Lauren Dunne, EY Editor, email laurendunne@trinitysouth.co.uk or call 01895 451 071 EY is published by West London and Bucks Newspapers which is a division of...

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Winter 2008

Following the rules of a classic monochrome BLACK AND WHITE’S STILL THE MOST POPULAR TREND AROUND. GABRIELLE FAGAN SEEKS OUT THE BEST MONOCHROME HOMEWARE AND FURNISHINGS SO YOU CAN SHARPEN UP YOUR STYLE.

T

he world of interiors can be a little confusing sometimes, with the trends changing as rapidly as high street fashions.

That’s fine if you’ve got the budget to indulge in every passing interior whim, but most of us really want a style that will have lasting appeal and doesn’t cost a fortune.

Look no further than monochrome – a classic which looks just as good in rooms as it does in an outfit. The black and white combo is in the spotlight this autumn as designers celebrate its charms. Accessorise with warm, chic touches of ‘bling’ gold or silver metallics to bring it up to date. They’re confidently predicting that it will be a leading look in 2009 and beyond.

head of home design at Littlewoods Direct which features a range of monochrome homeware at budget prices.

He says: “It’s not simply a case of putting black and white together. Too much black and your decorating scheme becomes heavy and dark, so always consider the balance of colours.”

Steven recommends mixing matt and shiny gloss combinations of black together to reflect the light and create surface interest. “Textured white cushions and throws make a fantastic contrast with leather furniture whilst a flash of metallic – silver or gold – will bring the look bang up to date.”

Seeing things in black and white means they’re clear and totally in focus and that could be the perfect recipe for home decor.

So, banish the confusion and move to monochrome.

BLACK AND WHITE RULES

The most versatile choice is white walls, or one black feature wall – in a glossy finish this is dramatic. In general, only the brave opt for all black walls.

“Not so,” says Anne Thompson, owner of House Couturier.

“Using very dark colours can give a luxurious appearance to a room. Rooms on a smaller scale are great areas to decorate with black and white – then get a dramatic effect with fabulous mirrors.

“I particularly like a flock wallpaper in black with white skirtings and ceiling, or a black feature wall behind a bed.”

If that’s not your thing, she suggests featuring the colour combination on the floor.

“A black and white floor can

look dramatic. Whether it’s a painted wooden floor, black and white vinyl tiles or a carpet or rug maybe edged with a fabulous black border – the contrasting colours help to set the scene.”

Homebase’s Boutique hotel range includes a snazzy wallpaper, Elinor – a floral pattern on a deep charcoal background, £19.99, while iconic 60s designer Barbara Hulanicki’s Hula wallpaper in charcoal and gold is the authentic choice for retro lovers.

It’s £19.98 a roll from B&Q. Marks & Spencer’s Marcus rug in black and white, £159, is a particularly stylish choice from the excellent rug ranges in high street stores. Try Next and B&Q for a range of monochrome.

BHS’ Maison collection sideboard £849, Lamp £50 and Platinum dinnerware £75. www.bhs.co.uk

So how do you create monochrome magic?

Leading interior designer, Karen Howes of THis Designs, says: “Black and white and cream are hot colours this season, however it is how you use them that’s key.

“It’s all about materials as well as colours, so go for polished steel, acrylic and plastic.

“Most importantly, before you start choosing fabrics and furniture decide which style you’d like to go for so you can plan a complete look.”

There’s a whole choice of interpretations from modern and minimal using pure white and jet black, a more rococo style with elaborate pattern and detail, or the glamorous Art Deco feel with mirrored pieces and shiny black surfaces. “If you can’t really afford a whole re-design but love the look get savvy,” Karen says.

“Take the ‘designer shoes and handbag paired with a Marks & Spencer T-shirt’ approach. Use inexpensive fabrics for large expanses such as curtains or loose covers and then have a mini-splurge on some fabulous designer cushions and accessories, like vases.”

“Follow a few simple rules to guarantee monochrome success,” urges Steven Rowe,

Winter 2008

Homebase’s Lotty 12 piece dinnerware set £29.99, Lotty cup and saucer £2.99, Lotty mug £2.49, www.homebase.co.uk

Finishing Toucheses THESE are key to bring personality says Debbie McKeegan, creative director at

Digetex, an interiors company with an impressive collection of monochrome in its wallcoverings, blinds and murals. “Monochrome themes are elegant and timeless and will always be a designer classic,” she says.

“Use contrasting scales and sizes in accessories to add drama and mirrors to

add illusion.”

One of its most striking fabrics is Silhouette, a digitallyprinted voile fabric with black chandeliers on a white background, from £20 a square metre. It’s easy to let your imagination run wild with the abundance of accessories on offer in monochrome and the essential metallics.

Transform a bedroom with BHS’ toile-de-jouy style Etienne collection, from £20,

add a black chandelier, £190, and a gold throw, and some Smarty vases, £20.

B&Q’s Arnoy glossy black or white table lamps are a bargain at £89, as are its striking black and white photographic framed prints, £34.98.

Take the style to the table with Homebase’s floral Lotty 12-piece dinnerware set, £29.99, or M&S’s Ruby black and white stripe dinner set at £59.

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5

Create a sanctuary for your child D esign savvy parents are turning away from the triedand-tested formula of pastel colours and garishly coloured murals or predictable bunnies and teddies.

These days the nursery is likely to be a stylish sanctuary that echoes the good looks of the rest of the home.

“Quite right too,” says Andrea Maflin, an interior designer whose new book, Children’s Rooms, is packed with inspiring ideas for creating imaginative, practical rooms for little ones.

“Remember that just because this is a room for a child it doesn’t necessarily have to be traditionally childish,” she says.

“You don’t have to sacrifice your own taste and design ideas if you don’t want to – there’s no reason why this room shouldn’t be decoratively as much part of your home as any other room.

“That way you will enjoy spending time in it – especially as for the first couple of years it will be a room where long hours are spent day and night! So, it needs to be comfortable, relaxing.”

All you need is a little knowhow, some imagination and not too much money to create a room that will grow with your child, and won’t need expensive redecoration too often.

Rob Chambers, commercial manager for furniture at Mamas & Papas, also recognises that parents want to harmonise the look of their child’s room with the other living spaces, so good design flows through the entire home.

“Many families are keen to create an individual, more eclectic feel in their children’s bedroom or nursery these days and they also want furniture that will last beyond their children’s nursery years,” he says.

“Oak is a popular wood finish and we are also seeing more interest in the crisp, clean look of white furniture, which reflects interior trends in other parts of the home.”

Follow our guide to create a perfect room for your child.

EASY AS ABC

PROPER planning and preparation is the key to success for a perfect room.

“You can’t do too much of this,” Andrea says.

“Start early and by the time the baby arrives you will have a room ready to welcome your newborn into the world.”

First, measure the room and do an accurate scale drawing of the space. Then draw in, to scale, any pieces of furniture that you already have which will make choosing any new pieces easier

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www.bobokids.net as you’ll know how much room you have for them, and are less likely to make mistakes.

A durable but inexpensive carpet is essential as it will inevitably get stained and need replacing after a few years.

A cot/bed will have a longer life than just a cot. Position it so it’s not in direct sunlight or next to a heater.

Ample storage is another must – if there’s little floor space consider wall hooks and shelves.

Ensure windows can be blacked out for day-time naps.

Blackout blinds plus lined curtains are a practical and stylish solution.

Have two sorts of light – a bright overhead light and a lowlevel light to use at night.

Consider a table lamp fitted with a low-wattage bulb, or a dimmer switch on an overhead light.

Alternatively, fairy lights fixed securely along a picture rail are a pretty way of providing a soft light.

“If the room is for an older child, talk to him or her about it,” Andrea says. “Children often have surprisingly strong opinions and it’s a good plan to take them into account.”

If choosing a motif opt for a classic one – maybe a spaceship and spaceman or cowboy – rather than a cartoon character which may quickly fall out of favour.

TIMELESS NURSERY

A CALM nursery doesn’t have to be dull. Use light colours and reflective surfaces, with accents of stronger pastel colours introduced through accessories.

“This will result in a practical but relaxing room that can easily be adapted as your child grows, and one that you’ll also enjoy spending time in,” Andrea says.

Consider white or cream, or perhaps a soft green or blue for woodwork.

Wallpaper’s in vogue and there’s a host of imaginative ranges to choose from in stores such as B&Q, or Laura Ashley.

An abstract print featuring geometric shapes or florals or one enlivened by fashionable metallic touches for light-catching

shimmer could be ideal.

Use paper on one feature wall, and use a complementary paint shade for the other walls. Tie the whole scheme together by brightening the plain doors of a wardrobe with same wallpaper.

Don’t hide pretty clothes or toys away in wardrobes and cupboards, instead display them to add personality and colour.

High street stores such as Laura Ashley, the White Company and Next have beautiful ranges of co-ordinating bedding and curtains and accessories for both boys and girls.

Check out some of the new trend-conscious companies who offer distinctive ranges for babies and children such as www.bobokids.net and www.aspacebaby.co.uk.

VINTAGE STYLE

THIS style is fashionable for adults and works brilliantly in a child’s room because it’s a way of creating a unique decorative scheme, full of personality and colour at minimum cost. Plus, it’s suitable for both boys and girls.

Andrea says: “If, like so many creative people, you’re a hoarder of fabrics, papers and objets trouvés, then you probably already have all the materials you need to theme a vintage room.

“If not, hunt through secondhand shops, visit auctions and jumble sales to build up a treasure trove of lovely things.

This decorative style allows you to combine and contrast all sorts of patterns and colours in the knowledge that you are adding to the final effect.”

Do follow a few rules. Choose items from the same era and feature at least some of the same colours to stop the room looking too chaotic. Revamp secondhand furniture with a fresh coat of paint, and embellish with images cut from greetings cards, wrapping paper or magazines.

Seal with a couple of coats of varnish (allow to dry between

coats). Spell out a child’s name by cutting out letter shapes from scraps of vintage fabrics, or from outgrown favourite clothes, and appliqueing them to cushion covers.

Create a colourful mural by cutting shapes and designs from old fabrics or wallpapers and pasting them on a wall.

FAIRY GROTTO

MOST little girls love fairies and by using this as a theme you can easily create a magical room.

“For many mothers this room won’t just be an indulgence for their daughter – it will be a dream come true for them, too,” Andrea says.

Use white paint for the walls and ceiling and if you wish add touches of pink to details such as cupboard handles, trims on chairs or the rim of a table.

The White Company has an excellent range of white painted furniture. It’s cot bed is £295.

Source a fabric featuring fairies – Jane Churchill has a charming one, and use it to make a simple bedspread and possibly a decorative bedhead. A pink and white gingham fabric is a classic which would team well with this look. Alternatively, simply buy fairy themed bedding sets from high street stores such as John Lewis. Its Fairy Flowers bedset is £40, or Marks & Spencer’s Faeries bedding set is £9.50.

WHERE TO BUY

Jane Churchill: www.janechurchill.com Earthborn: 01928 734 171/www.earthbornpaints.co.uk Ecos Paints: 01524 852 371/www.ecospaints.com

■ Children’s Rooms by Andrea Maflin is published by CICO Books, priced £16.99.

Call 01256 302 699 quoting GLR1FC to purchase a copy at the special price of £14.99 including free p&p.

Winter 2008

Live like Bond, James Bond

Bond is back and so is his style – lean, mean and ultra macho. But you don’t have to look like Daniel Craig to live like a hero in the ultimate bachelor pad. Use our style guide to create a glamorous home suitable for a secret agent.

T

here’s a little of James Bond in every man – and even if you’re not up to performing his deathdefying stunts you can still imitate his stylish ways.

Quantum Of Solace may be action-packed, but there are still plenty of enviably glamorous interiors to sigh over.

British interior designer Stephen Ryan, whose glittering celebrity client list includes Hollywood A-listers like Michael Douglas and Catherine ZetaJones, has created many homes with macho ‘secret agent’ appeal.

He predicts that the black and chrome look for bachelor pads is finished – and the new trend is for a more retro, decorative style using deep shades of chocolate with metallics such as bronzes and matt golds.

Rest assured however that the ‘wow’ factor is still an essential ingredient for any successful home.

Don’t despair if your bachelor pad doesn’t quite live up to Bond’s high standards. We’ve been on a mission to track down his super sexy style – so you can

invest in 007 kit from the latest film, or some quality look-alikes if you aren’t on a special agent’s salary.

LIVE AND LET BUY Lean, mean and moody has to be the look for a Bond-style living space.

■ Create atmosphere with black patterned paper. Graham & Brown’s glossy Viva wallpaper by Barbara Hulanicki, founder of 1960s fashion destination Biba, is £30 a roll from B&Q. SPLURGE: Lounge like Daniel Craig in the Ischia armchhair, which features in Quantum Of Solace.

It’s a high-backed wing chair with stainless steel legs, upholstered in a deep blue velvet fabric by Manuel Canovas. It’s £2,750 from The General Trading Store, London.

■ Or show your loyalty to Queen and country with a retro Pod-style chair decorated with the Union Jack. It’s £3,299 from Andrew Martin.

SPEND: Get spy style on a budget with a Cross base swivel armchair in mocha from Dwell, for £295.

■ A desk is essential so you can pore over those classified documents and plan your next mission.

SPLURGE: Study Quantum Of Solace and you’ll notice the functional, slim Max writing desk in oak, by Maxalto for B&B Italia.

It starts from £3,325.

SPEND: Alternatively, do your homework on cost and consider Dwell’s walnut writing desk, with two drawers and steel legs. It costs £325.

Winter 2008

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY Seduction’s second nature to Bond and it’s vital to get the bedroom’s romantic ingredients right.

SPLURGE: In the film Bond entertains glamorous Agent Fields, played by Gemma Arterton, on an elegant, contemporary Talamo bed from the AC collection. It’s in oak designed by Italian Antonio Citterio for B&B Italia, and starts from £3,831.

SPEND: Lie back and watch old Bond movies on the luxury Monroe upholstered leather bedstead, which cunningly incorporates a retractable TV at the footend.

It starts from £2,499 (or from £799 without the TV) from Marks & Spencer.

and an on-board entertainment system that car thieves can only dream about. It costs around £20,000.

The Italian Integra kitchen for Pedini, created by Tonino Lamborghini, features the trademark curves, leather panelling and the logo. It starts from £35,400.

SPEND: A high gloss black lacquer kitchen, teamed with a pale olive wood worktop, is handsome enough to appeal to a male who wants to keep the bank balance out of the red. Units with doors start from £81, from B&Q.

■ Find the perfect bedside companions even if they’re not as shapely as the big-screen Bond girls.

SPLURGE: Box-shaped Hypnos bedside tables with an open shelf – handy for popping a weapon or cufflinks on – feature in the film.

They start from £1,499 from the Maxalto Simplice collection for B&B Italia.

SPEND: Get the look for less with the Mercel walnut veneer nest of tables, £375 from Marks & Spencer.

BURN UP BRIGADE These days men (and secret agents) want their kitchens to be as flash as their motors.

SPLURGE: Poggenpohl’s teamed up with Porsche to create a kitchen with an aluminium chassis, finger-tip control doors,

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7

Framing a lasting memory DON’T LET THOSE HOLIDAY PHOTOS LANGUISH IN ALBUMS OR ON THE COMPUTER -TURN THEM INTO ART FOR YOUR ROOMS INSTEAD. WE FIND INSPIRING WAYS TO SHOW OFF THOSE SNAPS.

H

oliday photos are a lasting memory of happy times with family and friends.

But don’t waste them by keeping them in albums, boxes or on the computer – or bore friends with endless sessions looking at your latest shots.

Instead, turn them into art for your rooms. Displayed in clever ways they’ll not only add personality to your home but also just looking at them will give you a warm glow long after that sun tan has faded.

Julie Savill, author of 101 Finishing Touches believes it’s easy to enhance photos.

She suggests using a glassfronted box frame to show off a special holiday shot, and including a small souvenir from the place where the picture was taken. Julia says: “For instance, pop in a few shells or pebbles collected on the beach, or maybe a couple of travel tickets or a tiny memento. Make sure the occasion it was taken is never forgotten by writing a small label noting the time, place and people in the photo and stick it underneath the image.”

She recommends grouped images, framed or otherwise, to give them more impact, and advises selecting around 15 to 20 photos for a wall display.

“Ideally, use only black and white photos to give the arrangement unity – colour photos can simply be copied on a black-and-white photocopier.

Fast photo shops offer this service.

She adds: “Arrange the photos on the floor before hanging to help you decide the order in which you want to display them.”

A glass fronted box frame with a holiday shot and shells collected from the beach.

8 Exclusively Yours

To give it extra impact, frame the collection using lengths of dado rail.

Take your pick from these other top tips for holiday photos.

IN THE FRAME DON’T despair if holiday photos aren’t inspiring – there’s an easy way to make a collection of even dull shots look special.

Framing a selection of small photographs within a large mount – so there’s plenty of space around them – can make them look intriguing and interesting.

Theme the photos by using perhaps only beach scenes, or shots taken on one particular outing.

Alternatively, pick out the most atmospheric photo, enlarge it and give it a frame to itself, then have around eight other similar photos divided between two other frames.

Simple, plain black or white frames are ideal so there’s no visual distraction from the photos.

Choose from white wooden picture frames with an ivory mount from The White Company.

A long narrow wall frame is £20, while the large single aperture frame and large four picture frame are both £30.

(0870 900 9555 www.thewhitecompany.co.uk) FAMILY PORTRAIT GALLERY WHY display someone else’s art on your wall when you can display your own? Instead of hanging paintings, get holiday photos blown up and mounted on canvas to bring instant interest and personality to a room.

If you’re hanging several pictures together make sure each is the same size and keep the wall spaces between them even.

The trick is to use a tape measure. As the experts say – measure twice to be sure, then hang once.

Don’t hang canvasses too high up the wall – when standing a short distance away from them you shouldn’t need to tilt you head up to look at them.

You can get enlarged photos on canvas from £40 each at Snappy Snaps – and they can also create a themed montage including photos and holiday memorabilia.

It also has personalised photo cushions which start from £40 each, and come in a choice of silk, satin, or faux suede fabric.

Call 020 8741 7474 or visit www.snappysnaps.co.uk.

WICKED WALLS Wallpaper, especially with a busy pattern, isn’t an ideal background for photographs but ‘Frames’ – a

white wallpaper printed with black hand-drawn picture frames in various sizes – is designed to show off favourite photos.

Simply stick images inside the framed spaces and change them whenever you feel like it – this paper could be a good choice for children’s rooms and it’s so easy you could even get the kids to help! Frames wallpaper is £12.99 a roll from Graham & Brown, 0800 3288452/www.grahambrown.com Alternatively, create wallpaper from one of your favourite photographs or a montage of a collection of snaps. Bespoke wallpaper using photographs starts from £45 a roll from online company 55Max.com. (020 7625 3774 www.55max.com) SHELF STARS PICTURES are far easier to change on a whim when propped on a narrow shelf or ledge rather than hung. There are no nail holes to fill if you want to pop some new ones up, and a random selection of frames in different colours or sizes will only add more interest.

This look works particularly well in a long hallway as it creates a gallery effect.

A white photo shelf kit (frames not included) is £14.98 from B&Q. Join a couple of kits together for more impact. (0845 850 0175/www.diy.com) HALL OF FAME HOLIDAY photos are a decorative personal touch for a desk or perhaps a welcoming feature on a

hall table. A ‘photo tree’ allows you to display more pictures than traditional frames, and it’s easier to vary the show.

A Fotofalls stand in nickel finish has a tiny clip at the end of each of its branches for attaching up to 18 photos or holiday postcards.

It’s £20 from STORE. (0870 224 2660 or email www.APlaceForEverything.co.uk POCKETFUL OF PICS IF YOU can’t resist showing off a whole collection of holiday snaps, simply pop them into Picture Pockets. This hanging photo display gallery takes 40 photos – 20 photos on each side – and you can simply flip it over to reveal a new display. It’s £8 (55x71cm) from The Holding Company. (020 8445 2888 www.theholdingcompany.co.uk) MEMORY TIME TIME will fly by if you mark the hours on the clock with photos of holiday memories. An aluminium photoframe clock from Dwell has space for 12 photos (diameter 40cm). Call 0845 675 9090 or visit www.dwell.co.uk SEE THE LIGHT SHINE a light on your photos by displaying them in a lampshade.

A Clippykit shade, suitable for a lamp or hanging light has 18 photo pockets, or use one enlarged photo to run all round the shade.

Shade (base not included) £25.

(020 7610 0330 or visit www.clippykit.co.uk)

Black and white photographs displayed in a range of different frames all within a dado rail surround, from 101 Finishing Touches (BBC Books £4.99), by Julie Savill.

Winter 2008

Permission needed to pave your garden

F

rom October, planning permission is required to pave over your front gardens.

The new legislation, that came into effect on October 1, means homeowners will be required to submit plans to local authorities before paving over their front lawns and make way for driveways.

This has come as welcome news to the London Wildlife Trust – the only charity dedicated solely to protecting the capital’s wildlife and wild spaces.

Carlo Laurenzi, Chief Executive of London Wildlife Trust, says: “London Wildlife Trust welcomes this new legislation, which will help protect our city’s gardens.

“The capital’s gardens are vital to help to reduce flooding and help the city and its wildlife cope with climate change.

“They can provide shade, absorb carbon, soak up water and help to cool buildings.

“There are more than three million gardens in London.”

London Wildlife Trust’s Garden for a Living London campaign is calling on city gardeners to pledge to do one thing – to create a wildlife and climate friendly garden, helping to transform the capital’s three million gardens into a network of mini nature reserves.

■ For more information on how to join the Trust’s campaign and make your free pledge at www.wildlondon.org.uk.

A wildlifefriendly garden

HEAVEN AND HELL: a paved garden and a non-paved garden. pictures: Richard Barnes

EXPERT SAGE

Computerised Accounts Training Intensive Two Day Course

By Qualified Chartered Accountants

Limited Places: Enrol NOW. Courses available at weekends.

Tel: 020 8567 7733

www.london-school-of-accountancy.com

Winter 2008

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9

Make way for the evergreen I

F YOU have no time and little space in your garden, take a trip to the conifer section of your garden centre.

I know they have a reputation for being drab and boring, but these under-rated, under-used plants can add height and texture to borders and pots, adding colour and shape to the garden and lasting all year.

The range of colours, from silver grey to acid green, yellow and blue, can provide a hugely contrasting border with not a flower in sight.

Place them in pots as dramatic stand-alone features in symmetrical shapes and you create an instant formal look around a door.

Conifer and heather borders can also look fantastic all-year round if you pick conifers with a wide range of leaf colours and stem heights, forming a backdrop to a range of heathers at the front of the border which flower at different times of the year to provide the ultimate lowmaintenance, high-impact border.

Plant them in the right spot and they should only need a little pruning and watering. They are generally pretty disease-resistant and just need a little loving care during really cold spells.

“They create a very striking look

Yellow Cedar (Thuja Occidentalis ‘Danica’)

and have the same impact as a larger feature plant,” says Roger Ward, chairman of the Association of British Conifer Growers.

Good stand-alone specimens in terracotta pots include the conical white spruce (Picea glauca albertian ‘JW Daisy’s White’) for a formal look, while unusual conifers such as the Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria Japonica ‘Sekkan Sugi’) provide a taller, more feathery textured effect.

TARRANTS

TIMBER 020-8421 5989

TRADE & RETAIL SUPPLIES TIMBER ● FENCING ● BOARDS

Cut to Size Service & Delivery ALL TYPES OF GATES AND FENCING SUPPLIED AND ERECTED

● ● ● ●

WIDE SELECTION OF SAWN & PAR TIMBER MOULDINGS ● FENCE PANELS ● FEATHER EDGE CLOSE BOARD FENCING TRELLIS & GATES MADE TO ORDER

● TRADE DISCOUNTS ● DAILY DELIVERIES ● 1st CLASS SERVICE & ADVICE ● CUSTOMER CAR PARK

FULL RANGE OF GARDEN SHEDS TARRANTS TIMBER LTD WYEVALE GARDEN CENTRE, HEADSTONE LANE, HARROW 10 Exclusively Yours

If you want extra height in a shrub border, or a tall feature set in the lawn, good varieties include Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’ or Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata Aureomarginata’. Tough conifers such as taxus, pines and picea are also great for roof gardens as they are naturally hardy and their needlelike foliage is wind-resistant.

Conifers are tolerant of most soils and positions. Yellow or gold

varieties do need sunlight to maintain their richness, so avoid your darkest spot for them. All forms of yew are tolerant of chalky soils and some blue spruces and firs prefer acid soils to give the best colour. Spherical, or bun-shaped, conifers work well as punctuation points at the apex of a border, on either side of entrances or give strong shape in a border of daintier perennials.

Examples include Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Minima Glauca’ and Thuja occidentalis ‘Danica’. Most conifers cannot be hard-pruned to rejuvenate them or reduce their size.

However, yew (Taxus baccata) responds well to hard pruning and mature yew hedges can be cut right back to the bare stems to reduce their width.

Newly-planted conifers are most at risk from the drying effects of strong winter winds, which are more likely to be the cause of browning or death in winter than frost.

The answer is to plant your conifer in a sheltered spot where it has the protection of other plants or a wall. Smaller conifers can be protected with cloches or horticultural fleece, until they are more established.

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All I want for Christmas...

Interior designer Anne Hatton goes beyond the High Street for the best in gifts for your home for everyone in the house.

I

t’s that time again when we put on our coats to trawl up and down the high street, looking for that perfect Christmas gift.

Juggling work and family means less time to search for something unusual and unique.

With this in mind, here’s an easy guide to finding presents that will last and withstand the test of time. By purchasing something for the home, your gift will give pleasure long beyond the holiday season… and all these ideas can be ordered from home, saving you time and shoe leather.

SPARKLE FOR HER

FOR the woman in your life, she’ll love something luxurious and indulgent that she wouldn’t purchase for herself.

Metallic and luxe fabrics are very hot at the moment and can be found anywhere from cushions to bed throws.

A gilt framed mirror, such as the Silver Sun mirror from Lindhurst and Company

(www.lindhurstandcompany.com) would look equally charming in a bedroom or a sitting room. A quirky wall display is the carved wooden angel wings, available from Cox & Cox wwww.coxandcox.co.uk) or a mirrored tile from Plain Gorgeous (www.plaingorgeous.co.uk.)

A good stocking stuffer is a silky tassel to be hung on the key to a dresser or chest of drawers in the bedroom.

THE MALE EVENT

MEN are always difficult to buy for – but who can resist something original and fun, such as the phrenologist’s head from Cox and Cox – a real talking point in his study or sitting room.

He’ll also love anything embossed with the Union Jack, from a leather cushion to a painted wooden chair (log on to www.notonthehighstreet.com.)

One of his prized photos can be made up into anything from a canvas print, to wallpaper or even flooring or garden panels.

Print2Canvas (www.print2canvas.co.uk) has loads of suggestions.

Leather bound books or albums look great on bookshelves and

GREAT GRANNIES

GRANDMAS will also enjoy something for the home. Why not look at plaster plaques that can be displayed on the wall – www.plastercraftinteriors.co.uk has a plethora of ideas and styles, including kits to make your own.

DON’T FORGET GRANDDAD

FOR the granddads, why not consider a clock for the mantel?

The Contemporary Clock Company (www.contemporaryclock.co.uk) has clocks in many styles. tables, especially when personalised with his initials.

DREAMS COME TRUE

MAKE memories last well beyond Christmas – a garden gift that will last a lifetime is a personalised English oak swing seat, complete with rope. (www.notonthehighstreet.com.)

Who knows? Maybe there’s a budding interior designer, ready to go! Happy Shopping and

Happy Christmas!

Anne Hatton teaches interior design through Bucks Adult Learning, as well as running her own interior design practice, Embellishments Ltd. She is an Associate Member of the British Interior Design Association (BIDA.) Call Anne on 01753 882 425 or 07776 171 328 or visit www.embelishmentsltd.co.uk

Reader Offer:

To celebrate the holiday season, why not give a gift voucher to a loved one?

Anne is offering Exclusively Yours readers a £40 voucher

for an hour’s interior design consultation with Embellishments Ltd. normally worth £50. Contact Anne to take advantage of this offer.

Made to Measure Sliding and Hinged Wardrobes

With Modern and Traditional designs we can solve all your storage needs with custom-made interiors.

Sliding Wardrobes

◆ Coloured Glass doors ◆ Mirror doors ◆ Wood effect doors ◆ All glass safe to BS6206 ◆ Interiors to your personal requirements ◆ 10 Year Guarantee

Hinged Wardrobes

◆ Over 30 designs to choose from ◆ Real wood, laminated and Paint effect ◆ Bedrooms and home offices

Design, Planning and Installation

Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 11

Transform your bedroom FOLLOW THE TIPS OF CHRISSIE RUCKER, FOUNDER OF DESIGNER ACCESSORIES COMPANY, THE WHITE COMPANY TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL BOUDOIRS.

O

ur natural inclination at this time of year is to hibernate and escape the chill winds outside and the current gloomy financial situation is surely helping to heighten that feeling.

So there’s never been a better time to snuggle into bed – after all it’s cheap and it could be the perfect place to stash your cash.

But to really benefit your wellbeing, your bedroom should be a sanctuary and a place where you feel soothed, rested and relaxed.

Few people are more expert at creating bedrooms than Chrissie Rucker, founder of designer bedding and accessories supplier, The White Company.

“As a mum, juggling four wonderfully energetic children and a business I love passionately, getting enough quality sleep is crucial,” 39-yearold Chrissie says.

“And for great sleep, a comfortable bed and a lovely bedroom are absolutely essential.

“It’s well-known that sleeping is vital for our whole well-being. It restores the body, refreshes the mind, and may even help boost the immune system. In my view, the perfect bedroom should be a cocoon in winter and a cool, airy sanctuary in summer.”

Chrissie, who was inspired to start her company specialising in bed linen in 1993, after failing to find beautiful white bed linen at an affordable price, has her own pet bed hates.

She confesses with a grimace that “bobbly, poly-cotton sheets and lumpy pillows are guaranteed to make me miserable”.

She also buys the best quality

Kylie Minogue at the launch of her Home Furnishings Range in west London.

Picture: Yui Mok/PA Photos

12 Exclusively Yours

Kylie at Home bed linen, available at House of Fraser. Double duvet cover £75, Oxford pillowcase £12, Large square pillowcase £16, Pintuck cushion £20, Throw £110, Ruffle cushion £30, Organza cushion £25, Rhinestone cushion £18.

mattress she can afford and is disciplined about changing it after 10 years.

I discovered that if your bed is blissfully comfortable it can give you an extra hour of quality sleep every night,” she says.

“That’s a fantastic seven extra hours a week.

“It’s crucial to change the mattress after 10 years. Because during that time it will have experienced 30,000 hours of hard labour and deteriorated by up to 70 per cent from new.”

Chrissie shares the following tips so you can create a bedroom so smart and seductive that it could star in a glossy magazine.

BEDROOM DECOR The bedroom is a personal, private space and one where many people spend most of their time when they’re home.

So you should choose a colour scheme that appeals to you (and your partner) and make you feel relaxed.

Be inspired by schemes used in hotel bedrooms that you’ve stayed in and felt instantly comfortable and chilled. Also look at the clothes in your wardrobe, which will reflect your natural colour choices.

As a guide, soft or neutral colours are suitably soothing, but contrasting those with a deeper shade on perhaps the bedhead wall can be stunning.

Deep plums and rich pinks are fashionable this season, although men may prefer darker chocolate or khaki backdrops.

Keep the peace by reflecting both your tastes – use a neutral background and then pick out colour preferences in the bedding

and accessories so they can easily be changed to suit taste, mood and season.

BEST-DRESSED BEDS “Your bed’s the focus of your bedroom so it should be comfortable and inviting but also work with the surroundings and be dressed to suit the season,” Chrissie says.

Interiors stylists will always look at the whole room before starting to consider how to dress the bed.

“Step back and think about your interior scheme, what colours you could pick out for the bed, and what style of dressing would best suit the space,” she advises.

“A winter bed works well with a warm duvet, and layers of cosy blankets.”

For an autumn bed she advises a nine-tog duvet, and two to three blankets, with cotton, linen or the warmer cotton flannel sheets. Top it all off with a warm, thick bedspread.

TOP STYLING TIPS Layering is the buzzword for beds (as well as clothes).

Not only is it a clever way to quickly adjust the temperature, it’s also a fab way of introducing different colours and textures.

Think about adding a bedspread, throw and runner in complementing colours, but different fabrics.

“When dressing a bed, reveal a generous amount of each layer to avoid it looking mean or fussy,” Chrissie says.

“Place your pillows on the bed with the open ends of the pillowcase towards the middle.

This way the openings cannot be seen from the side.”

A decorative quilt, bedspread, throw or blanket - or even two will finish the bed off beautifully.

Fold it neatly and drape it over the end. Warm, cosy fabrics like mohair or velvet are perfect for this time of year.

Don’t forget the cushions. On most double beds keep the cushions in the front smaller and only use big, square pillows at the back against the headboard.

But if you have a tall or oversized headboard, the big square ones will work well in front.

CHOOSING THE BEST BEDDING Fashion and quality are just as important on the bed as on the catwalk.

Luxurious bed linen featured at No. 14 in Vogue’s Top 40 Don’t Miss List, and celebrity designed ranges are all the rage with Kylie Minogue, Twiggy, and Jordan/Katie Price just a few of the famous vying to dress your bed with style.

As well as visual appeal it’s important to get the right quality so you create a truly seductive haven. Don’t be confused by thread counts.

“In fact, all they really tell you is the number of threads in a square inch of material, and how closely woven the fabric is,” Chrissie says.“Don’t be deceived into thinking that the higher the thread count, the better the sheet, as different types of bed linen require different thread counts to produce the finished product.”

She points out that while cotton sateen has a count of 300 to 600, flannel requires only 115 threads per square inch.

“Bed linen with a very high thread count will not only be extremely expensive, it will also be so fine and silky it won’t launder or last as well as linen with a low thread count and price.”

The quality of the finished fabric is also hugely determined by the quality of the base yarn, so buy from a reputable manufacturer.

BEDLINEN SOURCES Shop around for bargains as many companies are currently offering discounts.

Check out the The White Company’s range, which includes Egyptian cotton and linen with a thread count from 200 upwards.

Create a cosy autumn bed with its 400-count Egyptian cotton Savoy range (£16 for a pillowcase and £85 for a double duvet cover). Top with its new Aldwych velvet quilt (£170 for a double) and cushion cover (£30)

Winter 2008

into that perfect sanctuary in taupe or amethyst.

Dorma’s collections include basic white and luxury options, such as its Jewel range. This 600-thread count set features delicate Swarovski jewels, set on swirling blush embroidery. A pillowcase is £70 and double duvet, £205.

Charlotte Thomas’ bed linen collections boast luxury but with a price tag that won’t make you feel guilty. One of her collections, Justyna, has a sensuous soft, silk feel and its luscious lilac and plum tones are bang on trend. It starts from £26.99 for a single duvet cover.

CHRISSIE’S TIP: When storing bed linen make sure it’s easy to identify. Create a separate pile for each room. If you have a linen cupboard, store sets on shelves labelled by room. Alternatively, store each set in a separate pillowcase, or use coloured ribbons to identify them.

FINISHING TOUCHES It’s those extras, large and small, that turn a bedroom into the ultimate comfort zone.

Matching bedroom suites can look dated. Instead, combine

pieces that work well together or enhance the space.

Mirrored furniture can give the illusion of more space, but make sure it’s not reflecting an unattractive corner of the room or underneath the bed.

The key room ingredients are a bedside table, two mirrors (a dressing table and a full length one), bedside rugs, and a bedroom chair.

Make a dull chair special by disguising it with a cosy throw.

“Flowers can make a bedroom, and they don’t need to be complicated, but avoid those with overpowering or cloying scents,” Chrissie says.

“Simple, white potted orchids work well, or fill a small vase with a few blooms.

Make the room more personal by grouping a collection of photos on a shelf or on top of a chest. Use frames that complement each other in shape and colour – white and silver’s a good combination.”

BEDROOM DESTINATIONS Dorma: 0870 220 9717/www.dorma.co.uk Kylie Minogue bed linen: 0870 160 7270/

Room and bed featured in How To Style Your Bedroom (A Little White Book) by Chrissie Rucker, photographs by Nato Welton, published by Craft Publishing, £10. To order: 0870 900 9555/www.thewhitecompany.com. www.houseoffraser.co.uk Jordan/Katie Price bed linen: www.matalan.co.uk The White Company: 0845 6788150 or call

www.thewhitecompany.com.

Charlotte Thomas: 0845 365 1625/www.charlottethomas.co.uk Twiggy Bed linen: www.ashleywildegroup.co.uk

DRY, SENSITIVE SKIN?

...then you need natural Shea Butter from Ghana

Intoto Kitchen Studio Argyle House Joel Street Northwood Hills Middx HA6 1NS Tel:01923 822 332 www.kbsa.org.uk Fax: 05600 766915 www.intoto.co.uk Email:Northwoodhills@intoto.co.uk

Winter 2008

Shea Butter is the oil from the nuts of Shea trees which grow in the savannahs of Ghana, and is a 100% natural (no perfume or additives), multi-purpose vitamin A & E cream with exceptional moisturising properties. Ideal for:

• Dry skin/chapped lips • Sensitive skin • Eczema • Psoriasis • Wrinkles and sun damaged skin • Dry and cracked heels • Scars and blemishes • Nappy rash (prevention and relief) Can also be used on your pets for skin infections and dry coats!

A 100ml jar costs only £5.00 and is available from

Judy at Goldscissors Hair & Beauty

89B High Street, Wealdstone, Harrow HA3 5DL • Telephone 07958 160931 Exclusively Yours 13

Give your home a festive treat Reindeer tea light holder set of four £10 at Freemans

THESE GREAT FESTIVE BUYS WILL GIVE A CHRISTMAS FEEL TO YOUR HOME Red table top tree £10 at Debenhams

Silhouette snowflake 12 piece dinner set £30 at Next

Signature platinum scratch wine glasses set of two £20 at Next

Prelit 6ft tree £65 at Debenhams

Natural tree £8 at Matalan

Fir cone tree £30 and lanterns £2.50 and £6 at Matalan

Alpine trees £6 from Next

The Art Galler y

• In-situ Ironing • Carpet Cleaning • Regular Maintenance • Moving in or out • Spring Clean • We are happy to help with the tasks you are no longer able to do, i.e. pulling out furniture and cleaning those hard to reach places, etc.

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The Art Gallery

103 Victoria Road, Ruislip Manor, Middlesex HA4 9BN Tel/Fax: 01895 635411 Email: helen@artgall.co.uk www.artgall.co.uk Mon-Sat 9.30am-6.30pm Sun10.aam-2pm Nov-Dec

14 Exclusively Yours

All Staff Fully Insured and Vetted

EST 25 YEARS

Professionally Cleaned Houses Using Commercial Products & Equipment Winter 2008

Welcome Winter with over the knee boots

R

edundant summer wardrobe on your hands?

Fling those unworn flimsy tops and bikinis to the back of your closet, it’s time to embrace the one wardrobe season you’re guaranteed to get wear out of autumn/winter.

Brighten those gloomy autumnal days ahead with some new additions to your wardrobe.

Autumn/Winter 08’s key catwalk

House of Holland.

THE REINDEER ARE BACK

Picture: Joel Ryan/PA Photos.

Winter 2008

looks provide all the fashion inspiration you need for a seasonal shopping spree.

VINTAGE FOLK AS SEEN AT: Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, DKNY, Hermes, Issa.

Boho? In winter? Welcome to the reinvented nu-Boho with all the folkish charm seen from previous summers but with a darker edge. Paisley prints are the way forward and gilets are back from the fashion beyond, but brand new updates for the look include fringing and faux fur.

Pick out fiery autumnal colours like red, orange and yellow on a black background.

CATWALK STYLE TIP: If you’re not smiling about the hippy chic smock comeback, keep that waist cinched in with a bright skinny belt, as seen at Dolce & Gabbana.

GET THE LOOK: Marks and Spencer, Next, or Dorothy Perkins.

GOTHIC ROMANCE AS SEEN AT: Prada, Givenchy, Alexander McQueen, Jenny Packham, Roksanda Ilincic.

It’s dark, it’s moody, but distinctly feminine. Lashing of

lace and sheer chiffon layers make up this soft goth look.

For added drama, designers used Victoriana-inspired high necks and maxi long lengths.

CATWALK STYLE TIP: Get the most from your dark romantic look. Black dresses can be worn for daytime too, pareddown with a contrast colour polo neck or shirt underneath, as seen at Prada.

GET THE LOOK: Debenhams, Monsoon, River Island.

ECCENTRIC HERITAGE AS SEEN AT: Vivienne Westwood, House of Holland, Paul Smith, Antoni & Alison, Daks.

Who knew HRH The Queen would be our style inspiration for winter?

Think headscarves, riding hats, clashing tartans and tweed.The fashion world takes its inspiration from country pursuits with a bonkers twist.

Head for the traditional primand-proper heritage look with a muted colour palette or punk it up with vivid plaids like purple and green to give the trend a youthful injection.

CATWALK STYLE TIP: The

thought of donning a silk headscarf might send some running for the country hills.

Instead, tie around your neck for a more wearable look, as seen at Daks.

GET THE LOOK: Warehouse, Jane Norman, or Matalan.

MEAN BUSINESS AS SEEN AT: Paul Smith, Jens Laugesen, Richard Nicoll, Todd Lynn, Alexander Wang.

Eighties power dressing has got nothing on this season’s tailoring.

Look for lean, mean suiting with shoulder pads, crisp shirts and masculine edges like bow ties and tux lapels.

This season, your wardrobe just isn’t going to cut it without a structured jacket.

To continue your sharp silhouette, opt for a figurehugging pencil skirt or razor sharp cut trousers in superbaggy or skinny cropped fit.

CATWALK STYLE TIP: If you’re working an unusual or angular shaped jacket, keep your lower half chic but simple, as seen at Jens Laugesen.

GET THE LOOK: Princples, Topshop or Wallis.

Santa’s Reindeer Parade comes to the Centre on Saturday 29th November, led by the Marching Brass Quintet.

Santa will be joined by a string of entertainers including Crystal the fairy on rollerskates, a duo of elves and a rollerskating snowman.

The parade starts at 11.00am, takes a short walk around Ealing and then heads back to the Centre’s Town Square where visitors can take a closer look at the reindeer.

SANTA AT THE CENTRE Santa will also be at the Centre on the 29th, 30th November, and 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th & 21st December from 11am-4pm

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS PARADE COMES TO EALING BROADWAY SHOPPING CENTRE ON 29TH NOVEMBER VISIT EALINGBROADWAYSHOPPING.CO.UK FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS AND OFFERS

Exclusively Yours 15

Razzle dazzle ’em NOW IT’S CREEPING INTO DECEMBER, IT’S NEARING PARTY SEASON. SO, WHETHER YOU’RE OFF TO A WORK DO OR OFF TO A HOUSE PARTY, WHY NOT DRESS TO IMPRESS AND DAZZLE YOUR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES BY GETTING A NEW GOWN TO ADD TO YOUR WARDROBE?

Amanda Frill Dress £160 at Monsoon

Tiered Chiffon dress £60 at Freemans.

Finish the look with a stunning necklace like this one at EB by Eric Beamon, £20 at Debenhams

Chloe black crinkle dress, £55 with Hilary wrap cardigan, £34, and rose prom dress £65 from Long Tall Sally at www.longtallsally.com or 0800 900 6885.

Saffron dress, £130 at Phase Eight Pink Hepburn clutch bag, £20 at Monsoon

Lois T-bar shoes, £55 at Monsoon Olympia dress £180 at Monsoon.

Dress £14, cardigan £10 and bracelet £5, all at Matalan.

16 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Staying in check Checks are big this season, in both large and small prints. With a range of tartan this is a look everyone should try – at least once John Rocha lace up boots, Rocha £95 at Debenhams

Grey chunky V-neck knit £90, black and white checked shirt £45 and grey tailored trousers £70, all at French Connection

Crafted Times coat £59.99, check trousers £29.99, at Republic, www.republic.co.uk

Checked shirt £25, dark jeans £38, T-shirt £9 black digital watch £27, all at Next

SUPPLIERS TO TRADE AND DIRECT TO PUBLIC OPENING HOURS: Monday-Saturday 9-5.30pm – Sundays - CLOSED- 4pm Sunday 11.30am

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Fine Art Gallery Large selection of Prints, Original Paintings, Canvas Blocks, Mirrors, etc., on display Specialist picture framing, choose from our huge display of mounting and framing styles – we frame anything

From

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Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 17

Better Health Are you healthy?

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Winter 2008

Dressing for every occasion

TV STYLE GURU GOK GIVES LISA HAYNES HIS INSIDER TIPS ON HOW TO DRESS FOR EVERY OCCASION.

W

ardrobe guru Gok dishes out advice for everyday occasions that might usually flummox us on the fashion front – from nights out to boardroom basics.

GOK APPEAL Former stylist to the stars, TV presenter and now author, Gok has built his career around clothes and women of every age and shape fall at his feet for some style salvation.

But why do fashionista wannabes relate so much to a 6ft 1inch guy who has a love affair with black clothing?

Admitting he’s puzzled by his fame, Gok says: “I think I’m accessible and honest - I try to keep it as real as possible. I’m dead normal. I’m a working stylist primarily, not a TV presenter.”

The master of makeovers says his secret is knowing what suits an individual.

“Several trends are out every

Winter 2008

season but they’re not going to suit everyone,” he warns.

“Understand your body and what works to create your own personal style. But get creative.”

STYLE BASICS Before you tackle the trends – Gok warns folklore, heritage and gothic are all tricky styles to pull off this season – it’s time to nail the all-important basics.

“The average woman has a wardrobe made up of four main areas: jeans, jersey, outerwear and knitwear. Sounds simple, right? Wrong!” says Gok. He’s here to guide us through the “Wardrobe Warzone”.

JEANS If you can’t find the perfect pair despite hoarding denim in every cut and colour imaginable, you’re not alone.

“Top of most women’s list of shopping nightmares is buying jeans,” Gok says.

BOOT CUT: A cut like this works best in darker denim, and a little faded wear on the thighs will draw the eye in and make those pins seem super-skinny.

WIDE-LEGGED: Super-flattering with heels or flats. Make sure the waistband is just tight enough, so that the back is snug around your gorgeous bum.

SKINNY: Wear with flat footwear like ballet pumps for a casual, sexy finish.

A crazy, retro pattern top will distract from any midriff issues.

JERSEYS + KNITS We all need a wardrobe full of snug jerseys and knits to fall back on in the autumn/winter season.

But how do we wear them?

“The key to jersey basics is to embrace the fabric itself,” Gok says, “It’s a great, heavy, slinky fabric that skims rather than clings, and can look super-sexy or dressed-down casual depending on how you wear it.”

OVERCOATS “From a classic bomber jacket to a woollen winter coat, these pieces are good to invest in,” Gok advises.

LEATHER BIKER JACKET: Can give a tough urban edge to your sexy Saturday night dress, without covering it up.

CLASSIC TRENCH: Belt it across your slimmest part to keep you looking super-toned, or keep it open and cinched at the back to reveal what’s underneath.

SMART BLAZER: Will instantly give slim jeans and simple flat pumps a ‘grown-up’ European look. Roll up those sleeves for an even more confident look.

LAYERING Having difficulties moving from summer to winter?

Layering up with basics is your key to transition dressing.

Keep base layers in a thin fabric so that they don’t overheat: it’s tricky to remove the underneath layer once you’re out and about.

Keep top layers low cut and short sleeved, so you can see the layer underneath, to make a confident style statement.

How To Dress: Your Complete Style Guide For Every Occasion

by Gok Wan is published by HarperCollins, priced £18.99. Available now.

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20 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Winter 2008

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Alluring autumnal hues Step into autumn pouting with the sultry colour of berrys. Let that little bit of red allow you to turn a few heads.

Clinique colour eyeshadow stay Matte in Midnight £11 from www.cliniq ue.co.uk.

L’Oréal Paris Colour Appeal three eyeshadows in beige/taupe

SHOW OFF YOUR EYES:L’Oréal Paris Colour Appeal Chrome Shine.

L’Oréal Paris Glam Shine Natural Glow Lip Gloss.

Mac Sonic Chic Mineralise Blush in Dainty, £15.

Max Factor Masterpiece Glide and define liner in Smoke, £6.99

L’Oréal Paris Glam Bronze Blonde Harmony Duo Sun Powder.

Mac Mattene in this deep berry red from £11.50 at www.maccosmetics.co.uk MAC skin finish £18 at www.maccosmetics.co.uk

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Winter 2008

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DAVID BARRY OUTLETS Classic Ladieswear

KINGSHILL CARPETS 270 Kingshill Avenue, Hayes, Middlesex UB4 8BY Tel: 020 8842 0088 Fax: 020 8842 0089 E-mail: kingshillcarpetshayes@googlemail.com www.kingshillcarpets.com

Winner of the Branded Supplier Award 2007 DAVID Barry Outlets, a renowned manufacturer of classic ladies clothing, and winner of the Branded Supplier Award 2007, now has an outlet in Field End Road, Eastcote.

The new store opened five months ago and has already achieved a fantastic response, with clothes literally flying off the rails.

David Barry Outlets, which also supplies clothing to high street stores including Debenhams, TK Maxx and The Edinburgh Wool Company, specialises in ladies outer wear, with the autumn / winter collection boasting a whole host of jackets, coats, knitwear, trousers and rainwear.

The wide-ranging collection caters for all ages, from funky and fashionable 20-somethings to more conservative attire for senior citizens.

Garments are available in sizes eight to 24, while larger sizes can be ordered if necessary.

But the best thing about David Barry Outlets is the price. The company has reduced its costs significantly by cutting out the middle man, and is pleased to offer some of the best value clothing in the borough.

Hundreds of customers have already snapped up the bargains on offer, and with a continual supply of superb stock, why not visit David Barry Outlets and have a browse? Find it at 176 Field End Road, Eastcote, or call 020 88682491 for further information.

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24 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Become a goddess the lazy way Stylist Hannah Sandling reveals how to do beauty routines the lazy way.

F

orget the paparazzi flash bulbs of the fame game, if there’s one part of our lives we could swap with A-listers, it would surely be their beauty entourages.

Wherever celebrities like Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham and Mariah Carey go, you can bet their team of hair stylists, makeup artists and facialists won’t be far behind.

But back to our reality... wobbly mascara applications on the bus, unruly hair scraped into a Croydon facelift and hairy legs covered up with opaques.

Fancy bucking up your beauty ideas? In her new book, The Lazy Goddess, celebrity stylist Hannah Sandling reveals how to cut corners and still look gorgeous.

THE LAZY GODDESS “I spent the best part of five years living and looking like a trog!” admits Hannah, saying she spent so much time styling celebrities that she neglected herself.

“My life was so busy that I was sacrificing all those lovely little essential things that make you feel so good and special - girly lunches, exercise, pedicures, facials and good old retail therapy.”

With speedy solutions collected from celeb friends and family - she counts Sienna Miller as one of her buddies - Hannah learnt some shortcuts to beauty.

“Most of the answers to your beauty problems are already lurking somewhere at the back of your fridge or kitchen cupboards, which means they’re quick and easy to solve,” she says. “Even better, they’re dirt cheap too.”

Here Hannah reveals how to become a gorgeous goddess the lazy way.

QUICK-FIX HAIR TRICKS Tresses need some SOS? Try Hannah’s advice for a red carpetready glossy mane.

Mayonnaise is amazing for rehydrating dry and damaged locks. Simply massage into your hair, wrap your head in a plastic carrier bag, leave for 20 minutes and then wash as normal. Apply a light amount of conditioner afterwards, then rinse out.

Make sure you wash your brush and comb with hair shampoo every two weeks so you don’t pass on old grease to fresh yummy-smelling locks.

If your hair has gone AWOL and you don’t have any serum, tame it down by smoothing a mini blob of hand cream over the surface instead.

Give your hair a real pampering session: rub a mixture of warm water, a touch of salt and two teaspoons of vinegar into it and leave for a couple of hours. Rinse with cold water to keep oiliness at bay.

SPEEDY MAKE-UP MASTERCLASS Beauty routine need a lift?

Hannah reveals how to get “lovely luscious lips and a killer stare”.

Get plumped-up and fuller lips by using two different shades of lipstick. Apply the darker one in the corners and the lighter one to the more fleshy part in the middle of your lips.

To get the perfect eyebrow arch, spray a little hairspray onto your fingers and quickly apply to your eyebrows. Brush them into shape using a dry toothbrush and leave them to set.

If you’re going for a vampy vixen look and want to create smoky eyes, pop your eye pencil under the hot water tap or onto a light bulb for a few seconds before you apply it. You’ll notice how much thicker and minxier it goes on.

Baby oil works a treat as a cheap and gentle eye make-up remover.

CHEAT BODY BLUFFS Get a goddess body in an instant.

Hannah show us how: To make your skin cuddly and soft, put three tablespoons of

Winter 2008

powdered milk into your hot bath, then lie back and relax. This helps to get rid of dead skin cells.

Before you go down the plastic surgery route to get your boobs enlarged, try shading in a pair! All you have to do is put some bronzer onto your bronzing brush and swish it down your chest where you would normally see a cleavage shadow.

To make your legs look thinner and longer, rub a little shimmer cream down the centre of your calves and shins to highlight them.

Get rid of bloating by eating watermelon – it helps prevent water retention.

TRIED & TESTED LASIK eye surgery, The London Vision Clinic (0800 587 4705), £4600.

In the name of no more glasses, I put my eyeballs on the line and signed up for LASIK eye surgery. It sounds scarier than it is – my surgeon dealt me with from day one, and the barrage of tests left me feeling really safe.

Just 20 minutes after going into the procedure room shaking with nerves, I found myself relaxing in the recovery room, pain free, spectacles-free and looking forward to a whole new world. I find I can apply my eye make-up better all of a sudden, and other people notice it too, no longer hidden behind frames. Definitely worth the expense.

coming beauty launches for the year ahead. The diary, £45 (70 Euros), is available at selected Estee Lauder counters nationwide and online at www.esteelauder.co.uk from October 6. A whopping £25 (35 Euros) from each purchase will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

DRAGON’S SCENT Seems the Dragon’s Den moguls didn’t breathe fire on the intriguing Scents of Time idea.

Stars of the BBC Two entrepreneur show, Peter Jones and Theo Paphitis, backed perfumer David Pybus’ range of scents, which recreate lost perfumes from the past. The four fragrances, Nenufar, Pyxis, Ankh, and Maya will be available from £45 at www.johnlewis.com. ● For more information visit www.scentsoftime.co.uk. ● The Lazy Goddess by Hannah Sandling is published by Metro Publishing, price£9.99.

Available now.

BUY IT NOW Work of art or make-up palette? We can’t decide! Snap up MAC’s Manish Arora limited edition make-up range during October, exclusive to www.maccosmetics.co.uk.

BEAUTY BULLETIN Hannah Sandling DIARY DATE reveals a few Do your bit for Breast beauty secrets Cancer Awareness month.

Estee Lauder is supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation with a new Pink Ribbon Diary for 2009 - perfect for noting down all those up-and-

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Winter 2008

Get a green makeover

T

he demand for ‘green’ products is growing.

More than 2,260 ethical cosmetics and skincare products were launched in Europe last year, according to Mintel research.

But going green isn’t enough for some beauty sticklers who want to know precisely what they’re putting onto their skin.

Korres is the first brand in the beauty industry to lift the lid on exactly what is in its products, scheduled to hit shelves in November. With consumers becoming more inquisitive about their products, it’s little wonder the grass is looking greener for organic beauty.

Co-authors of The Green Beauty Bible, Sarah Stacey and Josephine Fairley, explain how to do green beauty and reveal their top tried-and-tested products.

GOING GREEN Switching to green beauty doesn’t have to mean sweeping out the contents of your bathroom cabinet and starting again. “Simply buy yourself a multi-tasking tube of an organic balm such as the inexpensive BalmBalm (www.balmbalm.com), which won the Soil Association Organic Beauty Award,”

Josephine suggests. “It works as a cleanser, moisturiser, cuticle treatment, heel softener, lip gloss - and much more. It’s also a wonderful way to streamline and simplify your beauty regime and have time – and money – for other things. The important thing is to look for a certification symbol such as the Soil Association symbol, or the Ecocert symbol. These guarantee the ingredients are sustainably produced, without pesticides, herbicides or fungicides, and with minimum environmental impact.”

Stacey and Fairley recommend organic newbies try websites like www.victoriahealth.com and www.lovelula.com.

BODY Swapping some of your bodycare products for eco-friendly buys is

a great way to make the gradual move to green goddess. “I am a really big fan of the Neal’s Yard Remedies organic range - which is growing all the time as they convert their existing range as well as launching new organic products,” Fairley says.

“Origins Organics body products, including deodorant and body powder, are superb too.

It’s great to see such large companies coming into the organic market.”

TRY: Liz Earle Naturally Active Energising Body Scrub, £12 www.lizearle.com; Trilogy Botanical Body Wash, £15.94 (www.lovetrilogy.co.uk); HAIR

Ditch the heavy chemicals and turn your tresses into flowing green-friendly locks. Even trips to the hairdressers can be turned into a green affair.

“You can go greener even if you go to a salon that isn’t - yet green itself by taking your own natural products and asking your stylist and shampoo-er to use them,” Stacey suggests.

“You can also seek out salons that are unabashedly green and even totally organic. Over in Manhattan, green beauties head for John Masters, known as ‘the

organic hairdresser’ and a big hero of ours.”

TRY: Logona Gingko Repair Shampoo, £8.50 (www.logona.co.uk); Origins Clear Head Mint Conditioning Rinse £10 (www.origins.co.uk); MAKE-UP Thinking of revamping your make-up bag to go greener?

“Colour wise there’s much less choice, although a small avalanche of new brands and products falls through our doors almost weekly now,” Staceysays.

“Dr Hauschka have some lovely products - particularly their mascara - also Bare Escentuals and Inika mineral cosmetics.

There’s a range from France called Couleur Caramel which is just appearing on the British market and has some fabulous products.”

TRY: Philosophy The Supernatural 4-in-1 Mineral Makeup, £32 (www.hqhair.com); Logona Duo Compact Blusher, £14.25 (www.logona.co.uk); Aveda Lip Tint SPF15, £10 www.aveda.co.uk; Palladio Herbal Mineral Eyes, £6 (www.beautynaturals.com); Origins Fringe Benefits mascara, £11 (www.origins.co.uk).

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Exclusively Yours 27

Diamonds are forever

C

ARAT, emerald cut, marquise and brilliant. Welcome to the wonderful world of diamonds – still the most-popular choice for engagement and wedding

rings.

When you’re spending the traditional month’s wages on the perfect band, you really should do your homework and make sure you know what you’re looking for.

All diamonds are shiny and all show off a rainbow of colours when the light bounces off them, but there is much more to know about these precious gems.

Composed of carbon, diamond is the hardest natural substance in the world – formed around 200km below the earth in temperatures of up to 1300 degrees Celcius and carried to the surface by volcanic eruptions to be mined.

But how they come to be is of less importance when it comes to choosing the perfect wedding or engagement ring.

What you really need to bear in mind is

what are known as ‘the 4 Cs’.

Created by the Gemology Institute of America, this yardstick has helped to standardise diamond grading worldwide – focusing on cut, colour, clarity and carat.

While shape is not one of the key determining factors when classing diamonds, it is also crucial as it tends to be the one area most people have strong opinions about.

Available shapes range from pear to emerald and princess, although round is the most popular, making up 75 per cent of sales, due mostly to the fact that round stones tend to sparkle a lot more than other shapes.

When buying a ring, you first need to find out your partner’s taste so you have a starting point. Ask about shape and the sort of mounting they would prefer, as well as whether they want a single diamond, multiple stones or a mix of diamonds and other precious stones like emerald, ruby and amethyst.

Next, decide on your budget, which is traditionally equivalent to a month’s wages, and be sure to stick to it as you can easily be drawn into spending many thousands.

If you don’t want to give away your intentions by quizzing your partner personally, ask their friends and family members for their opinions or get them to quiz your partner discretely for you.

Then you will need to know their finger size. You can either take them to get measured or take a ring from their jewellery box, which you know will fit, and match the size. You can even tie a piece of string around their finger while they are asleep and mark where the two ends join.

Sizing is very important as rings can only be altered to a degree, so if your measurements are way out, you will have to get the stone reset at an additional cost or take it back and change it.

Other options include second-hand rings, which most couples steer clear of for superstitious reasons, although family heirlooms are often handed down through families. If you are thinking of recycling a family ring, make sure you offer to pay to have it reset and fitted as, while your partner may appreciate the gesture, times change and diamond cuts go in and out of fashion. Whatever ring you finally decide on, always get the certificate of authenticity which comes with all true diamonds and keep the receipt, both in case you need to change the ring and for insurance purposes.

■ For more information on diamonds see www.wildaboutdiamonds.com or your local jeweller.

Choose the perfect cut

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In honeymoon heaven

Cyprus

Mexico

I

f you’ve blown the budget to get the perfect wedding that you’ve always dreamed of and there’s little or no money left for a romantic getaway, help is at hand from leading travel website alpharooms.com, who is currently offering a range of luxurious honeymoon destinations at prices that won’t break the bank.

With the average spend on a honeymoon exceeding £2,580*, excluding spending money, the fantastic deals offered by the UK’s leading discount travel website ensure newly-weds can enjoy a romantic honeymoon in a selection of fabulous destinations.

Honeymoon for …

Under £2,000

Mexico

The luxurious 5* Golden Parnassus and Spa is an outstanding adults-only resort situated in Cancun. For couples wishing to be pampered after their big day, the spa at the

Rhodes

Golden Parnassus is truly luxurious and definitely worth a visit. With alpharooms.com, a seven night stay on an all inclusive basis, departing on 27 August 2009, based on two adults, costs just £742.64 in a double bedroom. Return flights from all major UK airports through alpharooms.com start from £470 per person including all taxes and charges. Total cost £1,682.64

Under £1,500

Cyprus

The beautiful 4* Akteon Holiday Village is situated directly on the sea front of Chloraka Village, just a few minutes drive from the picturesque harbour of Paphos.

For honeymooners looking to soak up the sun while relaxing on heavenly beaches, this romantic island and delightful resort is just for you. With alpharooms.com, a seven night stay on an all inclusive basis, departing on 9 September 2009, based on two adults, costs just £643.32 in a double bedroom.

Return flights from all major UK airports through alpharooms.com start from £264.98 per person including all taxes and charges. Total cost £1,173.28

submerge themselves in history while enjoying all the opulence of the resort.

With alpharooms.com, a seven night stay on an all inclusive basis, departing on 16 September 2009, based on two adults, costs just £501.67 in a double bedroom. Return flights from all major UK airports through alpharooms.com start from £273.98 per person including all taxes and charges.

Total cost £1,049.63

Under £1,000

Tenerife

The magnificent 5* Costa Adeje Gran occupies a prime location on the island and is the ideal resort for newlyweds looking for luxury for less. From fabulous roof-top pools with panoramic views of the Atlantic and extensive tropical gardens to a la carte restaurants, the Costa Adeje Gran is a must for

honeymooners on a budget.

With alpharooms.com, a seven night stay on a half board basis, departing on 15 September 2009, based on two adults, costs just £571.16 in a double bedroom. Return flights from all major UK airports through alpharooms.com start from £152.15 per person including all taxes and charges.

Total cost £875.46

■ FOR couples looking for a

dream honeymoon in 2009, visit www.alpharooms.com for more details and to book. www.alpharooms.com is one of the UK’s leading websites for discount worldwide travel, offering competitive deals for hotels, flights, transfers, car hire and travel insurance.

A one-stop shop for all holiday requirements and ABTA and ATOL bonded for peace of mind, the award winning company is the travel website to visit.

Tenerife

Under £1,150

Rhodes

The 5* Grand Hotel is the first luxury hotel in Rhodes Town, overlooking the beach and the beautiful blue of the Aegean Sea. Home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Colossus of Rhodes, the island is packed full of ancient landmarks, enabling cultural couples to

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Winter 2008

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Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 33

Make a date to roller skate THE 80S EXERCISE CRAZE IS WELL AND TRULY BACK. SARAH O’MEARA FINDS OUT WHY GYM-SHY WOMEN ARE TAKING TO IN-LINE WHEELS, AND HOW TO GET STARTED WITHOUT MAKING A FOOL OF YOURSELF.

S

o if you’re looking for a cheap way to keep fit and forget about the 80s-style recession, what could be more appropriate than reembracing the roller disco?

However before buying those leg warmers, Andy Cation, who runs website Rollergroove.co.uk, explains that roller skating is about far more than glitter balls and hotpants.

“Skating has experienced a resurgence in the last few years which is why I launched my website,” he says.

“But the only the exposure skating only ever seems to get as a cheesy disco activity - an idea which is long gone.”

Cation says roller skating is a sport for everyone.

“There are different pockets and styles depending where you go,” he explains.

“At one end of the scale are the cheesy club nights, then you have family activities and at the other end of the spectrum are very underground events, with hip hop, rap and reggae music.

These nights are probably more urban than any club you can go to.”

SKATE YOUR CARES AWAY People who are new to recreational skating can choose whether to hit (hopefully not literally) their local park or find a group event. But the main thing is to get yourself well equipped first.

Both Cation and the president of the British Roller Sports

Federation, David Nichols, agree that choosing your style of skate is key.

The traditional quad skate, which has a wheel at each corner, is typically used by those using a roller rink. Inline skates, which have wheels arranged in a single line, and are often known by the brand name Rollerblade, tend to be favoured by those looking to skate outdoors. “If all you want to do is get the park and glide around then inlines are the way to go, because they have less rolling resistance and friction,Cation says. But in my opinion quads are more flexible than roller blades and Ithink they’re better looking.”

Nichols agrees that inlines are safer for skating in parks, as they “push any stones and things out of the way”. But he doesn’t think that quads offer any more versatility. Roller discos tend to be quad based. I don’t know why,” he says.

“But whatever you see done on quad skates can be done on inlines. I’m 58 and I still teach and use both.”

The focus of skating in the UK has historically been on competitive areas such as speed skating, artistic skating, figure skating and roller hockey. But as Nichols explains, the emphasis has shifted in the last few years.

“I’ve been trying to make skating more accessible,” he says.

“Lottery-funded national body Sport England is keen to push recreational skating and we’re currently setting up a section dedicated to recreational skating on our website. Our official publication, Skate Magazine UK, will also soon be available free of charge online, with news about local events, clubs and groups.

And in the meantime you can contact us directly to find out that information. We’ll also be able to tell you about funding available for skating. When I started I talked to people running roller discos and skating groups who said, ‘No one gives a damn about us’ and I said, ‘We do actually’!”

Nichols says that apart from

obvious the physical benefits, skating has a very positive psychological effect.

“The first time people slap on a pair of skates they feel frightened.

But in a very short period of time they can go forward and do turns. It builds their confidence.

Quickly mastering something they couldn’t do before turns people on and that feeling never stops.

“We’ve done a lot of work with special needs adults. One woman in her 60s who was in a wheelchair was in tears. She had some feeling in her feet, and used the skates to push herself around. She said ‘It’s the first time I’ve ever done anything useful with my feet in 30 years’.”

SKATE FOR LIFE According to personal trainer Michael Staddon, co-founder of Create Yourself lifestyle company, skating can help tick off your workout minutes.

“It’s an aerobic activity and can really make positive changes to your health and fitness while you enjoy the social and competitive aspects of exercising with friends,” says the fitness guru.

“The primary muscles used for skating are quadriceps, hamstrings, calves and gluteal muscles, while tummy muscles such as the abdominals and obliques also play their part. The skating movement is generally long and slow which can help increase flexibility and goes a long way to increasing muscular

endurance and stamina.”

Staddon says there are a few simple ways to maximise your workout while enjoying skating.

“Learn the correct technique by watching other people or taking a lesson or two, reduce the number of times you rest and keep your heart rate up to help burn calories and increase stamina. Though of course, know your limits. For those that apply themselves, skating is a comparable cardiovascular workout to cycling or running, but with a better muscle workout for those hips and thighs.”

Like most sports, there are some risks involved.

“Your first skating experience doesn’t have to end in tears. Try starting with someone who can show you what to do - and what not to do. It’s almost inevitable you will fall a few times so start slow on flat ground and wear protective hand/wrist, elbow and knee guards. Don’t rush it, but hang in there because you’ll be zooming past walkers and joggers with the sun on your skin and the wind rushing through your hair in no time! Of course, then you’ll have to make sure you don’t run into anyone. Do bear in mind though, if you’ve had problems with your back, hips, knees ankles or calves in the past it might be good to see your GP before you start.”

For more information about your nearest skating group, email Tracy Bowen, the secretary of the British Roller Sports Federation, at Secretary@brsf.co.uk - or visit www.brsf.co.uk. Find out about national roller skating events at www.rollergroove.co.uk.

WHERE TO SKATE: Rollback, at Byron Hall, in Christchurch Avenue, Wealdstone. www.rollbackskating.com Family skating at The Beacon Centre, in Scott Crescent, South Harrow, on Saturdays between 12-3pm.

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Winter 2008

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Marry to reduce risk of dementia Following a new report which claims that having a long-term partner can halve your risk of Alzheimer’s, SAM WYLIEHARRIS looks at the health pros and cons of single versus married life.

T

hey say everything in life has its price. While some of us may savour being a single, free spirit at 40, experts now claim that an independent lifestyle and solitary mind could increase your risk of becoming senile in later life.

According to latest research, people who are unmarried or not living with a partner in mid-life could have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. A new study by the Karolinksa Institute shows that people who are married or living with a significant other have 50 per cent less chance of being affected by dementia than those living alone.

Researchers in Stockholm also found there were differences between groups of people who had been living on their own for different reasons.

Key findings indicate that living with a partner in mid-life makes you significantly less likely to show cognitive impairment compared to all other categories: single, separated, divorced or widowed.

Life-long singletons had a double risk of contracting the disease.

Divorcees who stayed single from mid-life onwards had a triple risk. And most dramatically, people who were widowed before mid-life and remained alone had a six times higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those who remained married from midlife.

Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, afflicting more than 700,000 Britons.

To reduce the risk, research suggests that maintaining regular social interaction can contribute to maintaining brain health as we age - and possibly decrease the chance of developing the disease.

“Some evidence suggests remaining socially active may reduce your risk of dementia and living with someone is certainly a good way of increasing social interaction,” Dr Susanne Sorensen from the Alzheimer’s Society says.

“However, there are many other lifestyle factors associated with being married that may help reduce your risk of dementia, whether it’s reaching for the vacuum cleaner or going for long romantic walks.”

The Society also says freespirited singletons shouldn’t

36 Exclusively Yours

worry as there are many other ways to reduce your risk of dementia that don’t involve popping the question and running up the aisle.

“The best evidence is around eating a Mediterranean diet, exercising regularly and not smoking,” Sorrensen says.

According to a recent report in the medical journal Neurology, eating fish three times a week may lead to a reduction in harmful brain lesions that can trigger Alzheimer’s disease and stroke by up to 25 per cent.

Britons are already advised to eat fish at least twice a week, including one portion of oily fish.

Whether you’re single or married, the experts advise staying clear of the local chippie and filling your shopping basket with tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines which are all high in omega-3 fatty acids.

SEVEN HEALTHY REASONS TO BE MARRIED ■ It’s not a myth - marriage is a medicine.

A healthier lifestyle and personal wellbeing means you’re more likely to live longer. Married men have a longer life expectancy than single men and both of you can save on your medical bills.

Single people spend twice as much time undergoing treatment in hospital.

■ It’s an accepted fact that after time, love-making can become routine. But you probably have a far more fulfilling and better sex life than most of your single friends!

■ Bad day in the office darling?

Being in a loving relationship makes it easier to cope with the strains of working life. People who are in long-term relationships are more laid-back and less stressed.

■ You probably spend less time

at the pub. Being respectful to your significant other means you’re more likely to cut back on the booze and smoke less.

Single men are more than three times as likely to die of cirrhosis of the liver than married men.

■ Contentment has its rewards.

Thanks to elevated feelings of happiness, happily marrieds have lower blood pressure than singletons or couples in unhappy relationships.

■ When did you last suffer from a cold? Married people tend to have stronger immune systems and are less likely to catch colds and develop other illnesses like headaches and back pain.

■ Married men and women have lower suicide rates. A meaningful social network of friends and relatives gives people a sense of personal value and a feeling of responsibility to others.

SEVEN HEALTHY REASONS TO BE SINGLE

■ What better social interaction is there than flirting? Being single gives you the complete freedom to flirt with whoever you want, whenever you want.

■ A constant companion at dinner is a dead cert for piling on the pounds. Singletons stay slimmer, especially women. Let’s face it, you have more motivation and can’t afford to ‘let yourself go’ in case Mr or Miss Right suddenly turn up.

■ You have more time for activities. No one’s stopping you from going for a cycle ride in the park on a Sunday morning, spending a weekend at a yoga retreat or pumping iron in the gym as often as you want.

■ Relationships are synonymous with compromise.

Eventually you will have to sacrifice something you really like – facials and body treatments or footie nights with

the boys. Enjoy being single and treating yourself. Selfishness can sometimes be good for the soul.

■ You can get a good night’s sleep – and go to bed when you like. Who wants to be woken up by heavy snoring or constant trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night?

■ Being single means you can be spontaneous and adventurous. Life experiences like travelling alone or taking in a show will boost your confidence and give you greater self-esteem than some of your married friends.

■ Tired, irritable and depressed?

You can have PMT as bad as you want without having to explain anything.

■ Enjoy the peacefulness of your own mind and relish the calm that comes from solitude, with no one nagging at you, criticising you or finding fault.

For advice on coping with dementia or Alzheimer’s, call the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Helpline (0845 300 0336) or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk TEN WARNING SIGNS OF ALZHEIMER’S ■ Memory loss ■ Difficulty performing familiar tasks ■ Problems with language ■ Disorientation to time and place ■ Poor or decreased judgement ■ Problems with abstract thinking ■ Misplacing things ■ Changes in mood or behaviour ■ Changes in personality ■ Loss of initiative

Winter 2008

Filmtastic STUCK FOR SOMETHING TO DO? CHECK OUT THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST RELEASES

Jacob, and Kathy Bates. Gort has not been cast at this time and will most likely be created using SFX.

RELEASED DECEMBER 26 AUSTRALIA

Directed by Baz Luhrmann, with Hugh Jackman and NIcole Kidman An epic mix of war and drama. Set in northern Australia before World War II, an English aristocrat, who inherits a ranch reluctantly pacts with a stock-man in order to protect her new property from a takeover plot.

As the pair drive 2,000 head of cattle over an unforgiving landscape, they experience the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by Japanese forces firsthand.

BEDTIME STORIES

Directed by Adam Shankman. With Adam Sandler, Keri Russell, Guy Pearce A family comedy about a hotel handyman (Sandler) whose life changes when the lavish bedtime stories he tells his niece and nephew start to magically come true.

RELEASED JANUARY 1 CHANGELING IS RELEASED ON JANUARY 1

RELEASED DECECMBER 5 TRANSPORTER 3

Directed by Olivier Megaton. With Jason Statham, François Berléand, Natalya Rudakova This film will continue the story of Frank Martin, a professional ‘transporter’ who has relocated to Paris to continue his low-key business of delivering packages without questions.

This time the rules are the same, except one.

MADAGASCAR: ESCAPE 2 AFRICA

Directed by Eric Darnell, Tom McGrath.

With Herman Almendarez, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric the Entertainer In the sequel the New York Zoo Animals, Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo, still stranded

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa

Winter 2008

on Madagascar, start to leave the island.

All of a sudden, they land in the wilderness of Africa.

There, Alex meets his family and starts having problems communicating with them – for much of his years have been spent in a zoo.

RELEASED DECEMBER 12 THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL

Directed by Scott Derrickson. With Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm The 2008 remake, of the 1951 classic film about an alien and his indestructible robot will star Keanu Reeves as Klaatu, Jennifer Connelly as Helen Benson, Jaden Smith as

Transporter 3 is out on December 5

CHANGELING

Directed by Clint Eastwood. With Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, Jeffrey Donovan In the film, Christine Collins’ (Jolie) prayers are met when her kidnapped son is returned. But amidst the frenzy of the photo-op reunion, she realizes this child is not hers.

Facing corrupt police and a skeptical public, she desperately hunts for answers, only to be confronted by a truth that will change her forever.

RELEASED JANUARY 16 DOUBT

Directed by John Patrick Shanley. With Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams Set in 1964, Doubt centers on a nun who confronts a priest after suspecting him abusing a black student.

He denies the charges. Much of the quickfire dialogue tackles religion, morality and authority.

Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman star in Australia

Exclusively Yours 37

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38 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

ALI BASTIAN

ACTRESS Ali Bastian was born in 1982 in Berkshire, and now lives in west London.

She rose to fame playing Becca Dean in Hollyoaks, and plays PC Sally Armstrong in The Bill IF YOU HAD TO BE STUCK IN A LIFT WITH SOMEONE, WHO WOULD IT BE? “My mum, because I’m a little bit claustrophobic. She’s one of the few people that can actually talk me down – and we can natter for England.”

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR? “I’m really scared of snakes.”

DO YOU HAVE ANY SUPERSTITIONS? “I’m not hugely superstitious, but I do touch wood if I feel I’m tempting fate.”

IF YOU COULD HAVE ONLY ONE SONG ON YOUR IPOD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? “Id probably change my mind about this daily, but today it would be Smells Like Teen Spirit

by Nirvana, because it reminds me of my youth and it’s good to jump around to.”

WHATS THE MOST EXPENSIVE THING YOUVE BOUGHT, NOT INCLUDING PROPERTY? “It would be my car, a Mini Cooper S Convertible. I also have a slightly-expensive handbag. I do use it every day, though, so that’s how I justify it.”

WHATS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOUVE BEEN GIVEN? “My roomie at work is Lucy Speed, who is a little fountain of knowledge and she comes in with these things and sticks them on the notice board sometimes.

She’s got a new one up, and I really like this: Don’t get caught up explaining yourself to everyone; simply have the courage of your convictions and get on with it. I think that’s the best I’ve heard for a while.”

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED AND WHY? “I watched the film Into The Wild and that really made me cry a lot.

It’s a really beautiful film.”

HOW ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY ARE YOU? “I try to be. I do recycle and I try and buy organic food and support local farming and all that sort of thing.”

HOW MANY TEXTS DO YOU SEND IN A DAY? “About four or five. Not loads, just checking in with people. I’d rather speak to people to be honest.”

WHAT ITEM COULD YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT? “Probably my iPod.”

Winter 2008

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE? “I would be my inability to wakeboard; it’s like snowboarding on water. I tried to do for most of last summer and just could not achieve it. I’d be really happy if I was able to do that.”

Exclusively Yours 39

Christmas wish list...

T

he top Christmas toy predictions have been revealed by Toys R Us, with High School Musical, Ben 10 and In The Night Garden heading children’s expected wish lists.

The High School Musical Dance Mat and Hannah Montana Tour Bus are expected to be high on the girls’ wish list, and for boys it’s the Ben 10 Omnitrix watch and the latest craze, Bakugan Battle Warriors.

For younger children, there’s In The Night Garden Upsy Daisy and her bed. But parents who don’t recognise any of the toys can take comfort from the fact that Lego and the latest edition of Monopoly are high on the wish list too.

In the night garden ninky nonk vehicle £9.99 www.mailorderexpress.com

Talk plush iggle piggle from In the Night Garden £18 at www.toyshop.com

Plush Upsy Daisy £14.99 at Woolworths

Bakugan Battle Brawlers can be found at www.theintoy.co.uk

Hannah Montana Tour Bus is a must for girls this Christmas, £79.99 at www.toysrus.co.uk

Ben 10 Omnitrix £12.99 at www.worldwideshoppingmall.co.uk

MONOLOPY MANIA: Monopoly Here and Now UK Edition, £19.99 at www.whsmiths.co.uk and stores nationwide.

LOVE LEGO: Below, Indiana Jones: Temple of the Chrystal Skull £69.99. Find Lego at toy stores nationwide and at www.shop.lego.com

MONOPOLY WITH A TWIST: Why not try Family Guy or Pirates of the Carribean Monopoly? £29.99 at www.starstore.com

Winter 2008

Skeleton Tower £39.99.

The Good Wizard £1.99

Troll Warship £49.99

Exclusively Yours 41

Shop & Skate on Ealing Each year Christmas keeps getting better on Ealing Broadway. We have London’s best value ice skating rink and this year it is an open-air rink with a truly festive atmosphere.

A great way to celebrate children’s birthday parties is on the ice and we have a designated party area. You can bring your own food and have fun skating as well.

Call our children’s party booking number: 020 8231 2423 to book your party now.

This year we’ve teamed up with our town centre businesses to bring you a wonderful range of Christmas shopping offers and discounts to make your money go even further.

Whether it is buying gifts for your friends and family, enjoying a Christmas party or night out, some beauty pampering or a lunch time work party you’ll get more for your Christmas here in Ealing.

Every year we improve our festive lighting in our trees and on our street lights, making us the envy of other west London town centres. Last year we introduced two 40 ft Christmas trees and this year we are having an extra lighting extravaganza on Haven Green with seven 60 ft trees being lit up for all to enjoy.

Ealing Broadway has lots to offer – for you to see, do and enjoy this year. Merry Christmas! See you on the ice!

Check out our website for more information on what is happening this Christmas: www.ealingbroadwaybidco.uk Brought to you by:

42 Exclusively Yours

Festive Events: Reindeer Parade: 11.00am Saturday 29th November Santa arrives with his reindeer and elves at the Ealing Broadway Centre on Saturday 29th November led by the Marching Brass Quintet. The parade starts at 11.00am, takes a short walk around Ealing and then heads back to the Centre’s Town Square. The entertainers will be performing around the Centre until 4.00pm

Christmas German Market In the Ealing Broadway Centre Town Square from the 1st - 24th December

Santa at the Centre Talking with children and handing out small gifts on 30th November and 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th & 21st December from 11.00am to 4.00pm

Late Night Thursdays Music Medleys Barbershop Quartet - 4th December from 4.30pm - 7.00pm A great musical attraction performing popular festive tunes around the centre Miss Christmas and the Christmas Children (Singing and dancing) on the 11th and 18th of December from 5.00pm See website for further information: www.ealingbroadwayshopping.co.uk

Winter 2008

Broadway this Christmas Come Ice Skating at Ealing

From 28 November 2008 to 4 January 2009

Bring your family and friends and soak up the atmosphere of open-air skating amongst the trees on Ealing’s Haven Green, conveniently located opposite Ealing Broadway Station.

Tickets on sale now Advance booking strongly recommended Book on line: www.ealingicerink.co.uk Book by phone: 0871 230 7136 (booking fees apply) Enjoy the fun of London’s best value skating experience

Competition:

To celebrate our festive ice rink we’re offering 3 family skating tickets (worth £30 each) for you to win. Enter our competition by completing and returning the coupon below for your chance to win! Each family ticket entitles 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children to come skating absolutely free. Combine this with one of our special food offers and enjoy a great day out in Ealing.

Your Name: Your Address:

Telelphone Number: Email:

Winter 2008

1

How many 60 ft trees are being lit on Haven Green this Christmas?

2

Is the ice skating rink an open-air rink this Christmas?

Yes Ye No

Closing date to receive your entry is 1st December with the results announced in that week’s edition of the Gazette.

Please post your coupon to: Ealing BID Company Ltd, Walpole House, 18-22 Bond Street, Ealing, London, W5 5AA.

Exclusively Yours 43

Bohemian and eccentric B

by Ken Bennett

righton, one of Britain’s liveliest cities, has a bohemian, artistic and eccentric atmosphere that’s hard to match anywhere else in the UK. Combining the modern with the traditional, Brighton has a heritage that is rooted in the Regency era and is brought up to date with a unique cultural offer.

There’s elegant architecture, museums and galleries, great shopping, stylish cafés, bars and restaurants, glittering nightlife, arts and theatre – plus all the fun of the seaside.

Nightlife is relaxed and funfuelled, with stylish bars, traditional pubs and the biggest selection of restaurants outside London – more than 400 serving mouthwatering cuisine from around the world.

There’s live music nearly every night of the week and the club scene is legendary. Home to world famous DJ’s like Fatboy Slim, the clubs host some of the most exciting nights around.

Fashionable, funky and loaded with style, Brighton & Hove is the perfect city break by the sea.

What to see:

Don’t miss Europe’s most extraordinary palace, the Royal Pavilion, King George IV’s seaside fantasy, with its Indian domes and oriental interiors.

There’s all the fun of the fair on Brighton Pier with its whirling waltzers. Stroll the vibrant beachfront with lively cafés and bars, pubs and clubs, artists’ and fishing quarters, beach volleyball court, children’s play area and dramatic sculptures framing the sea views.

The city’s made for walking, so explore the narrow alleys of the 17th century Lanes, a maze of

smart shops selling antiques, jewellery and designer clothes, and the bohemian North Laine, full of unusual and eccentric shops selling everything from bonsai trees, bongos, oriental silks and far eastern furniture.

Find all your favourite high street names under one roof at the award-winning Churchill Square shopping mall or discover the designer discount outlets at Brighton Marina.

The arts play a major part in city life especially in May when the Brighton Festival, England’s largest international arts festival, attracts thousands of people to hundreds of events for three weeks.

There’s everything from contemporary dance to comedy, operas to exhibitions and circuses to street theatre. The city’s museums are treasure houses of inspiring objects from all eras and cultures. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery has undergone a £10 million development and now has dynamic and innovative new galleries, including World Art, 20th Century Decorative Art Fashion & Style, Body and Social History which feature exciting interactive displays appealing to all ages.

What to eat:

Head to the beach and enjoy a plate of delicious freshly caught seafood. Or, if you just fancy a beer, a latte or some organic juice, spend time with friends in one of Brighton’s cafes or cosy pubs. With a fantastic range of restaurants, pubs and bars, eating out in Brighton is pure gastro heaven.

Consistently topping awards at the Observer Food Awards, whether you’re after fine cuisine, veggie treats, a tasty beachfront brunch or delicious cheap nosh,

North Laines for a spot of shopping eating out in Brighton is a culture in itself.

When to go:

Brighton & Hove is one of the most vibrant, colourful and creative cities in Europe – at any time of the year!

In winter the town is alive with a seasonal round of festivals, concerts, performances and exclusive events, making the run up to Christmas the perfect time to explore all the city has to offer.

Spring and autumn offer an unrivalled shopping experience, iconic attractions and famed nightlife. If the sun is shining, explore the hip North Laines neighbourhood or do a bit of shopping in the lanes.

Best bargains:

Visit Brighton often teams up with hotel and restaurant partners to offer special seasonal rates.

Check out www.visitbrighton.com for special offers.

Find out more about Brighton: www.visitbrighton.com www.enjoyengland.com/cities Brighton Pier

Brighton Pavillion

44 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

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Bright lights of Edinburgh T

hinking of going on a Christmas break? Why not look a little closer to home and consider Edinburgh as your winter holiday destination?

The city comes alive during the month long festival Edinburgh’s Christmas, which has plenty to do and see including a spot of skating at the large ice rink, a go on the snow slide, a trip on the Edinburgh Eye and a visit to the German market. Get into the Christmas spirit as Edinburgh makes it a December to remember with fantastic festive celebrations and a month-long Christmas party. From the glittering lights of George Street to the Edinburgh Eye, a visit to the city is a spectacular seasonal treat.

Explore the German market for unusual gift ideas, tasty treats and warming mulled wine or take to the ice at Winter Wonderland.

Whatever your age Edinburgh’s Christmas is a magical way to make the most of the season of good will.

And it doesn’t stop there. The Christmas festival culminates with the world famous Hogmanay – the largest New Year event in the world. The festival is best

known for its New Year’s Eve street party which attracts up to 100,000 people every year who sing, dance, hug and kiss to celebrate the New Year below the backdrop of the stunning Edinburgh Castle.

Be part of the incredible atmosphere of the Torchlight Procession as it lights a path through the city towards the midwinter fire festival on top of Calton Hill.

On December 30, join Europe’s leading street theatre companies at the Night Aford celebrations and then dance underneath the stars on Hogmanay itself.

There will be a range of international artists, which last year included Kasabian and Calvin Harris, performing on four stages as part of the Royal Bank Street Party. And on New Year’s Day, the firm favourite – the One O’Clock Run – will take place.

If on your visit you have a few spare minutes why not do a little Christmas shopping – you’ll be spoilt for choice. The Nutcracker Christmas Shop, at 52 High Street, The Royal Mile, is open all year and is crammed with decorations and Scotland’s only stockist of Steinbach

Nutcrackers. To plan your winter break in Scotland visit www.visitscotland/white, for a range of hotel deals log on to www.visitscotland.com/shop/ holidaypackages and click on Edinburgh Hogmanay.

Above: the German market Right: A Steinback Nutcracker at £80 and Below: Winter skyline.

Edinburgh Inspiring Capital

The Santa Walk during the annual Santa Weekend in Edinburgh Picture Rob McDougall

Edinburgh ice rink and below German Market in full swing.

46 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 47

Travel

Uncover Blackbeard’s

Kate Whiting takes a journey to Ocracoke off the North Carolina mainland – well worth it for those seeking a real American treasure

A beautiful day on Ocracoke beach, in North Carolina.

The Travel Facts

I

n Ocracoke harbour, the pelicans perch on wooden mooring posts in the setting sun, as if to welcome the fishing boats back after a long day out at sea.

And they couldn’t have found a better – or more secluded – place to rest.

Ocracoke, one of the narrow sandbar islands that run down the coast of North Carolina, was for years one of America’s best-kept secrets.

In 2007, however, it was thrown into the global spotlight when its virgin beach beat more than 650 sandy havens

to be named the best beach in the entire United States.

It was the first time a beach, outside of the more popular sunspots of Hawaii and Florida, had been chosen and, sitting on the warm white sand, I could easily see why.

Ocracoke island boasts 15 miles of uninterrupted, undeveloped, pristine beach with gently sloping sand-dunes and spectacular views stretching out over the Atlantic.

There are none of the oversized chain hotels, beach bars or banana boats of

All parties must be booked in advance and confirmed with a mini-mum deposit of £5 per person.

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Same package ex-Manchester from £575, and ex-Gatwick from £559.

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Destination information is available from North Carolina Division of Tourism: 0207 367 0937 or at www.northcarolinatravel.co.uk

Winter 2008

Travel

beautiful little hideaway built-up resorts. Ocracoke defines understatement and simplicity.

US Beach expert Stephen Leatherman (fondly known as Dr Beach) selected Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach on the basis of 50 criteria, ranging from sand quality and colour to wave size and even traffic.

There certainly aren’t many cars in Ocracoke, mainly because the island has only 700 residents and because its location, 26 miles from the mainland, means many visitors fly into this unspoilt paradise instead of struggling with the three-hour car ferry.

But the journey is well worth it for those seeking a real American treasure.

Besides its beach, the island, and the surrounding Outer Banks boast some of the most extraordinary history, set in a carefully preserved landscape.

One exciting way to explore is by kayak. Ride The Wind surf shop, in the centre of Ocracoke’s snug historic town, offers guided Eco Tours, which take you to the very spot where the notorious pirate Blackbeard met his demise.

Blackbeard, an Englishman known as Edward Teach, had often used the island as a refuge when taking a break from smuggling and pillaging.

He was finally killed by Lieutenant Maynard, who chopped off his head in a ferocious battle, just off Springer’s Point in 1718.

Paddling through Teach’s Hole, you could almost sense the battle, which had once rocked the now still waters.

But perhaps more eerie was the legend that Blackbeard’s headless body had swum around his boat three times before it sunk to Davy Jones’ Locker.

The kayak tour, led by friendly Ocracoker Bob Chestnut, took us away from the ocean and up

Ocracoke beach at sunset

Winter 2008

A pony basks in the sunshine in Ocracoke. some of the island’s natural inlets too, where we found oysters, hermit crabs, turtles and even a sea snake darting among the reed beds. Our sunset return to the harbour was shadowed by a continuous line of cormorants migrating South for the winter – a most incredible sight.

Later we would meet another islander Philip Howard, who leads historical ghost walks around Ocracoke’s closely woven network of paths.

As a descendant of William Howard, who first bought the land in 1759, for 105 British pounds, Philip perhaps lays most claim to knowing the island’s history.

As we wandered slowly through the dark town, Philip gently conjured tales of an unknown diver who haunts the main street, chairs that rock by themselves and townsfolk who had been buried alive.

Among the many small cemeteries dotted around the island is one dedicated to four

British sailors from HMS Bedfordshire. The men were laid to rest on Ocracoke in 1942 after their ship was torpedoed on May 11 by a German submarine.

After bidding farewell to Philip we went for dinner at the Back Porch restaurant and wine bar – one of the island’s culinary gems – offering such delicacies as steak with Roquefort and an excellent range of seafood dishes. We stayed at the Captain’s Landing, a wooden hotel in keeping with the traditional 18th century houses, which had spectacular views over Ocracoke harbour and lighthouse.

The next morning, we took bikes offered at the hotel and cycled round to the harbour to catch a boat over to the deserted town of Portsmouth on a neighbouring island.

Once a thriving port town with more than 685 residents in 1860, Portsmouth lost its purpose when shipping lanes moved north, and saw the last residents leave its shores in the early 1970s.

A handful of the buildings are open to the public, including the US Lifesaving Station, General Store and Methodist Church – all immaculately preserved by volunteers exactly as the community had left them.

We were powered back to Ocracoke by Rudy Austin, who was born and raised on the island and spoke in its distinctive brogue, a bit like a UK West Country accent, where ‘high tide’ is pronounced ‘hoi toide’ and ‘there’ is ‘thar’.

The accent is derived from the Scots-Irish settlers who came to

the island in the 18th century.

They were exposed to decades of geographical and social isolation from the mainland, which marshland had made virtually unreachable.

Over time the islanders developed their own culture, as well as the soft-sounding dialect.

To give ourselves some geographical perspective, we headed to the historic town of Beaufort on the mainland, which lies at the heart of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

From Beaufort, it’s easy to take day trips to other sandbar islands, which make up the Outer Banks, and one of the most spectacular is Cape Lookout.

Just a quick powerboat ride away, you’re on another wild beach that could almost rival Ocracoke’s, with warm currents making the sea as tempting as a bubble bath.

Cape Lookout’s lighthouse, with its large black and white diamond pattern, is iconic of the Outer Banks and so are the wild ponies, which roam nearby Shackleford Banks. Legend has it that they swam ashore from Spanish shipwrecks hundreds of years ago and have gone on to colonise swathes of land across the Crystal Coast.

Beaufort itself is the third oldest town in North Carolina and was considered a health resort by Victorians, who drank its special seawater tonic with honey.

You can see the town to its best advantage from the top deck of a vintage 1948 double decker bus, which takes you through the Beaufort Historic Site and includes Hammock House, which was built in 1709 and where the notorious Blackbeard once stayed. North Carolina’s coast has become a hotspot for diving – with some 2,000 ships found wrecked in its rocky waters.

Understandably the coastline is called the Graveyard of the Atlantic. The North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort boasts artefacts said to be salvaged from Blackbeard’s flagship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, found in 1996.

Sharks and sea turtles happily swim through a replica of the sunken pirate ship at the North Carolina Aquarium, a short drive from Beaufort, in Pine Knoll Shores.

As the sun glinted off the Atlantic at the end of another beautiful day on the Outer Banks it was easy to see why North Carolina is so justifiably proud of its unique coastline.

Exclusively Yours 49

50 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Why not get out and about?

What could you get up to during the Christmas holidays? Here are a few ideas to get you on your way out of the house.

Mend” Workshops for children aged 5 and above will take place from 11am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm. For more information call 020 8358 4896.

WARTIME CHRISTMAS WHEN: December 18-19 WHERE: RAF Museum London, Grahame Park Way, Hendon, NW9 5LL.

E

ver wondered what it was like to celebrate Christmas during the Second World War? Find out how life changed between the years 1939 and 1945 during the season of goodwill and make wartime cards, gift tags and paper chains. A small family display will show how the men and women of the Royal Air Force celebrated Christmas during the Second World War. A special wartime activities booklet will also be available for an additional charge. Christmas “Make Do and

CHRISTMAS GROTTO WHEN: December 20-23 WHERE: RAF Museum London, Grahame Park Way, Hendon, NW9 5LL.

T

his year the museum will be having a special guest visting Aeronauts in December, Father Christmas. Children of all ages are welcome to visit him in our specially constructed Grotto before he departs to Lapland to double-check all his final preparations and flight-plans for Christmas Eve. In return for a small fee of £3 per child, each child visiting Santa will receive a special gift and be able to tell Father Christmas what they would like their presents to be on Christmas Day; whilst Mum and Dad can take photography of their visit.

Generous to the end, Father Christmas has very kindly agreed

to give all monies received to the Museum for the upkeep of our aircraft collection; helping us in our aim of conserving these wonderful air-craft for future generations. And as an extra fillip he has organised a Christmas Raffle. Tickets may be purchased from the Museum shop at £2 for a strip of 5 with Prizes including an RAF Collection Jacket signed by the Red Arrows plus 2 Tickets for England’s World Cup qualifier against Ukraine on 1st April.

Father Christmas will be available to greet people from 11am each day until 5:30pm and he will draw the raffle on December 20.

LONDON ZOO WHEN: Open daily 10am-4pm WHERE: Regent’s Park, Baker Street, London.

W

ith so much to see and do, a visit to ZSL London Zoo is the perfect day out for people of all ages.

Meet some of the most popular of the zoo’s 750 species and find out more about the animals,

including where they live, what they eat and whether they are endangered in the wild (their IUCN status).

A new children’s zoo is set to open at Easter, so this area of the park will be closed while development is ongoing.

But don’t worry, the zoo will continue to provide an exciting range of shows, talks and up close experiences for younger visitors.

Give your child a head start!

Tumble Tots is the leading national active play programme for children

* Sitting - walking * Walking - 2 yrs * 2 yrs - 3 yrs * 3 yrs - 5 yrs * 5 yrs - 7 yrs * Structured play with four individual programmes * Music, action songs and rhymes BRING THIS AD * Specially designed equipment AND RECEIVE * Parent participation * Great fun 50% OFF ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE! Harrow, Hatch End, Ruislip & Edgware SATURDAY CLASSES IN SOUTH HARROW

020 8143 7641

mai.law@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/harrow

HARROW LEISURE CENTRE Willesden • Ealing Hanwell • Hatch End www.aquababies-uk.com Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 51

NEW TO GERRARDS CROSS

FINEST INDIAN FOOD GRILL AND PAN ASIAN MENU CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN TAKE AWAY AND DELIVERY SERVICE BUSINESS LUNCH AND DINNERS PRIVATE FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE CALL FOR YOUR RESERVATION INDIGO HOUSE, OXFORD ROAD, GERRARDS CROSS, BUCKS SL9 7AL

01753 883100

www.indigobarandgrill.co.uk 52 Exclusively Yours

BAR AND GRILL Winter 2008

Pantomime season is here once again C

HRISTMAS just wouldn’t be the same without a family friendly pantomime, and this year, the Chesham Elgiva is hosting yet another spectacular show.

Following the success of last year’s Wizard of Oz, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs promises to be an equally enchanting version of the well-loved children’s classic, with stunning scenery, eye-catching costumes and, of course, plenty of comedy.

Children and big kids alike are sure to be enthralled watching the beautiful Snow White escape the evil clutches of Queen Sovainia – her wicked stepmother who is obsessed with being the ‘fairest in the land’. And, true to the fairytale story, the Elgiva’s version will have a happy ending, with Snow White rescued by her handsome prince – but not before she embarks on an adventure and discovers a cottage in the woods, which is home to seven new friends – Cheeky, Dippy, Sniffly, Grumbly, Snoozy, Blusher and Pop. The show runs from December 4 to January 4.

Many dates are already sold out, so book your tickets now to avoid disappointment.

The Salvation Army will also

Swashbuckling action at The Beck Theatre THE tale of a boy who never grew up is set to capture your imagination this winter, as Peter Pan comes to The Beck Theatre.

With stunning sets and fabulous costumes, Peter Pan is set to become the theatre’s most successful pantomime ever with ticket sales well ahead at the same point of last year’s record-breaking production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

Heading the cast of this year’s spectacular show is Leslie Grantham in the role of Captain Hook.

Best known for his role as Den Watts in EastEnders, he has starred in numerous pantos and has become one of the country’s top

54 Exclusively Yours

Snow White is poisoned by the apple

be holding A Christmas is Coming, an evening of music, carols and dance on Monday, November 17. The event is in aid of The Mayor of Chesham’s Charity Appeal and The Salvation Army, and features the talents of The Salvation Army Band, Brushwood Junior School

Choir, Hillingdon Salvation Army Dance and Timbrel Group, and Lissa Hermans.

■ For more information about these events and the many other shows at the Elgiva to mark the festive season, call the box office on 01494 582 900 or visit www.elgiva.com.

Mark Jones is Hook’s sidekick Smee

panto villains.

Everyone’s favourite bird joins the cast of this year’s show as Toby Hull and Emu create havoc as the pirates.

Returning to the Beck, after becoming a hit with panto audiences in last year’s Christmas show, Mark Jones plays the role of Captain Hook’s bumbling sidekick Smee.

Make sure you book early to avoid disappointing your loved ones this Christmas.

■ Peter Pan runs at The Beck Theatre, from December 12January 4. Tickets start at £16.50 (with concessions and special rates for groups and schools) can be booked on 020 8561 8371 or online at www.becktheatre.org.uk.

Winter 2008

stillwater

bathroom centre

With over 30 years experience specialising in bathrooms, the Stillwater team are committed to providing elegant bathroom solutions.

From luxury vanity basins to the latest whirlpool bath technology, our showroom boasts a broad range of products designed to make your bathroom beautiful, as well as functional.

To ensure you make the right choice, our in-house designers have the latest computer aided design technology at their disposal. Using this service you can see how different combinations look in your bathroom before you make your final decision. Stillwater offer a full project management and installation service.

We at Stillwater pride ourselves on our impeccable customer service and superb efficiency, so come to us and make your ideal bathroom a reality.

85/87 Field End Road, Eastcote, Pinner, Middlesex HA5 1QG

020 8869 9699

Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sundays 11am-4pm. Parking available.

www.stillwaterbaths.co.uk Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 55

A skating wonderland T

he time has come for outdoor skating rinks in the most spectacular settings in London to open once again.

Among them includes the Tower of London, the splendour of Henry VIII’s Tudor Palace at Hampton Court to the magnificent backdrop of the illuminated Temperate glasshouse at Kew. The Natural History museum is yet another setting where you can skate and

enjoy the architectural delights of one of London’s most magnificent buildings.

Whether you pop along with friends during your lunchtime or decide to make a day of it at one of these world-famous venues, visit the London ice rinks for some magical winter fun. Advanced bookings are highly recommended as skating sessions around Christmas and the New Year dates sell out fast.

Kew Gardens

November 29 – January 4 www.kewgardensicerink.com London’s most magical ice rink returns to the Royal Botanic Gardens for another festive skating season.

Situated in the heart of the Gardens

in a majestic woodland setting beneath the dramatically illuminated Temperate House, it’s a breathtaking skating experience.

Tower of London

Until January 11 www.toweroflondonicerink.com Situated in the dry-moat beneath the fortress of the Tower of London, the rink offers the chance to skate in a truly unique setting on the banks of the River Thames. So grab a hat, gloves and scarf and take time out of the hustle and bustle of London to experience skating under the battlements by the Thames.

Natural History Museum Until January 18 www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Our 900-square-metre Ice Rink is set in the Museum gardens.

For younger skaters there is a 100-square-metre junior rink linked to the main rink via an ice

bridge. Ice marshals will be available if you need any help on the ice. While there why not enjoy a mulled wine and walk around the Christmas market.

Hampton Court

November 29 – January 11 www.hamptoncourticerink.com For the sixth year, one of experience. The real-ice London’s most dramatic rink is set against the ice rinks returns to the stunning backdrop of banks of the River Henry VIII’s historic Tudor Thames for the ultimate palace, and is beautifully festive skating illuminated at night.

56 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Curling up by the fire

As the days get colder and the nights longer why not curl up by the fireplace with a good book?

HEART AND SOUL

BY MAEVE BINCHY Published in hardback

by Orion Books, £18.99.

BEGINNING a new Maeve Binchy book is like slipping into a warm bubblebath – relaxing and oh so good.

Binchy is the queen of the ensemble novel, and Heart and Soul shows she will be hanging onto the crown for some time yet.

Set in the present day, in a heart clinic based at a large Dublin hospital, this is a book which enfolds the reader and keeps them enthralled from start to finish.

Meet darling junior doctor Declan, Polish girl Ania who finds a bright new future, caring boss of the clinic Clara and Father Brian, victim of a deranged stalker.

The cast list goes on for pages, but be assured that every one of them will seem real thanks to the skill of this most Irish of writers. A perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine and a box of tissues!

A FINDER’S MAGIC

BY PHILIPPA PEARCE

Published by Orion, £9.99, for readers seven and older.

RENOWNED children’s author Philippa Pearce (Tom’s Midnight Children) wrote her final book in 2006, just months before her death. Two years later, A Finder’s Magic is being published with illustrations by Helen Craig.

The story is simple and entirely reminiscent of Pearce’s winning style. When young boy Till’s dog Bess goes missing, the answer comes to him in a dream.

Heading to his garden gate, he finds a man willing to offer his services as a

Winter 2008

‘finder’ and the two of them set off to find Till’s lost pet. With the help of a heron, a mole, a riddling cat and two little old ladies, this part-detective story, part-fairytale is bound to become another children’s classic.

A LION AMONG MEN

BY GREGORY MAGUIRE Published in hardback by Headline Review, £14.99.

SINCE the international success of theatrical musical Wicked! based on his best-selling book Wicked: The Life And Times Of The Wicked Witch Of The West, author Gregory Maguire has become a household name.

The third and latest novel in his series of ingenious fantasy stories, which provide a fictitious back story to the classic tale of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Frank Baum, features the beloved Cowardly Lion.

As civil war looms in Oz, an ancient and tetchy oracle named Yackle prepares for death. Before she can return to dust, however, the Cowardly Lion – an enigmatic figure named Brrr – arrives seeking knowledge about Elphaba Thropp, the Wicked Witch of the West who defended him when he was a cub.

Yet another stimulating and entertaining tale from Maguire.

Fans of witches, politics and magic will adore this book.

REVELATION

BY C.J. SANSOM Published by Macmillan in paperback, priced £12. Available now.

SHARDLAKE fans prepare to free up a weekend to dive into another gripping and gruesome Tudor mystery that’s every bit as good as its predecessors. As reformers plot the marriage of the King to Catherine Parr, a serial killer seems intent on destroying their

plans and only our favourite lawyer can stop him.

WORLD WITHOUT END BY KEN FOLLETT Published by Macmillan in paperback, £12.99.

THE setting for the sequel to Follett’s enormously popular novel, The Pillars of the Earth first published almost two decades ago - leaps forward from the 12th to the 14th century.

Depicting the plague and warridden world of late medieval England, Follett’s ability to combine historical fact with a terrific story creates a gripping, if gruesome, read.

SILVERFIN: THE GRAPHIC NOVEL BY CHARLIE HIGSON AND KEV WALKER Published in paperback by Puffin Books, priced £9.99.

For ages 10 and over

Show star Charlie Higson, was first released as a novel in 2005 but now gets a makeover for this lushlyillustrated, 160-page adaptation.

The tale begins as young James Bond arrives for his first day at Eton. There, he encounters a number of friends and as many foes – most notably George Hellebore and his tyrannical father.

Once the action moves up to Scotland and the home of Bond's aunt and uncle, the plot moves on in leaps and bounds and, enhanced by Walker's lavish and easily-read illustrations, it becomes difficult to put Silverfin down. Of course, the story feels abridged compared to the full novel version, but with such stylised drawings, this graphic novel is a feast for the eyes as well as the imagination.

WITH the latest film in the James Bond franchise ready for release on Halloween, there's perhaps no better time to get back to the beginning of the superspy's life and revisit his formative years.

Silverfin, written by Fast

Exclusively Yours 57

The colour of winter

Chef patron of Friends restaurant, TERRY FARR, returns with some seasonal recipes

W

hile discussing this season’s column with a friend she suddenly, but eloquently, recited the first few lines of To Autumn.

Nearly two hundred years ago, the celebrated poet, John Keats, in his beautiful Ode, wrote:Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run; To bend with apples the moss’d cottage-trees, And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core; To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells With a sweet kernel; to set budding more, And still more, later flowers for the bees, Until they think warm days will never cease, For summer has o’er-brimm’d their clammy cells.

What a vivid summary of this

time of year! The wonderful colours that signify the onset of autumn, are a good reason to be cheerful, changing almost daily, with cooler evenings and long nights. Even when the days are fine and sunny, the dark nights soon remind us of the beginning of winter. What could be better, than to curl up in front of a glowing log fire, with a book of poems, such as this wonderful ode, by Keats, capturing the warmth of late summer, not yet a distant memory.

It makes the mist sound beautiful, not threatening.

In the Autumn of 1983, I did a stint in a restaurant named after this gifted man, Keats in Downshire Hill, in Hampstead – how appropriate that I should remember this now. This is of course, close to where he lived, Wentworth House, now a museum, (Keats House) in Keats Grove. Although I prefer the warmth of the summer months, I can’t help but look forward to this time of year, in part, for the kind of food that is appropriate to these cold nights. Mellowed by some fine verse, I am now in the mood for some real food. Un-cork the ’99 Gevrey Chambertin, prepare the Haggis Cakes, cook the Grouse, and ready the Chocolate Fondant-it could be a long night! Now, for me, that’s an evening in!

■ These recipes will be included in my new book, to be published early next year. For more or to book a table at Friends, call 020 8866 0286 or visit www.friendsrestaurant.co.uk

Roast Grouse

Serves two 2 young grouse 2 rashers of streaky bacon 25g unsalted butter 25g each of chopped onion, celery and carrot 50ml red wine 150ml chicken stock Few sprigs of watercress Bread sauce as required (many people add more than I would!)

Game chips, or crisps to garnish Truss the grouse, wrapping the bacon around the breast. Season inside and out with a little salt and pepper. Brush the grouse with the butter, and place on one leg, in a hot oven, 250C/ Gas 8, for five minutes. Turn them onto the other leg and roast for another five minutes.

Turn them onto their backs and

Chocolate Fondant

Pan-fried Haggis Cakes with a soft Poached Duck Egg Serves two 1 large potato, boiled in the skin, but still firm, slightly under-cooked Half a small haggis (McSween’s from Edinburgh would be good) 2 egg yolks 25g diced swede, lightly cooked 25g diced carrot, lightly cooked 2 duck eggs, poached until soft, and cooled in a bowl of iced water.

4 small rashers of thinly sliced pancetta, cooked until crispy 50ml double cream 25cl Scotch Whisky 50g cold butter 1 tbsp chopped chives Peel and grate the potato into a mixing bowl. Spoon out the haggis filling, and add to the

58 Exclusively Yours

potato, together with the diced vegetables. Add the yolks and a pinch of salt, and mix well.

Shape the mixture into two cakes, on a lightly floured surface. Pan fry the cakes in a little hot vegetable oil until golden brown on each side. Keep warm. Make the sauce by boiling the cream and whisky together, and whisking in the butter, cut into small cubes.

Add the chives and season to taste.

Meanwhile, reheat the duck eggs in simmering water,for about two minutes, then drain them on a cloth.

Place the haggis cakes onto hot plates, put an egg on top of each one, spoon over the sauce and garnish with the pancetta, in a criss-cross fashion.

Serve at once.

roast for another five minutes.

Remove from the pan and allow to rest, for 10 minutes. Remove the legs and breasts and keep warm. Add the chopped vegetables to the pan and colour lightly, leaving in the roasting juices. Roughly chop the carcasses and add to the pan.

Add the wine and stock, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the stock and reduce by half, keep warm.

Return the grouse to the oven to reheat them, and then arrange the legs and breasts on the plates. Garnish with the game chips and watercress, pour the gravy over the top and serve the bread sauce separately.

Wow, this is one of the most unique aromas of the kitchen!

The wine will go very well with both the starter and main course.

Serves two 50g caster sugar 75g unsalted butter, cut into cubes 75g dark Chocolate, grated 2 whole egg 1 egg yolk Half a tbsp plain flour

Lightly grease two individual moulds or ramekins. Place the sugar, butter and chocolate in a bowl, over a pan of simmering water. Stir until completely combined, and then remove from the heat. Beat in the eggs and yolk, and then fold in the flour. Pour into the moulds and allow to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes. Place them onto a baking sheet and put into a preheated oven, 190C/gas mark 5, for 10 minutes.

When cooked, allow to stand for a couple of minutes, then turn out onto warm plates, and serve with clotted cream and a little chocolate sauce.

A glass of chilled Tawny port will compliment this nicely.

Terry Farr is offering one lucky reader a meal for two at Friends restaurant.

To enter answer this question: Which poet did Terry Farr take his inspiration from for this season’s column?

Send your answer, with your name, address and telephone number, to Lauren Dunne, Gazette House, 2nd Floor, 28 Bakers Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 1RG by December 19.

Offer not available during December or on Saturdays and Sundays

Winter 2008

PALM SUITE NOW OPEN SUNDAYS (from 16th November) SPECIAL OFFER Sunday 2-course Lunch

£10.95

Book now!

Our meat is sourced direct from Quality Assured Farms. We insist that the animals are free-range and are fed naturally. Our friendly, expertly trained staff will help and advise you on any specialist cuts that you may require.

We specialise in the following quality produce: • Certified Aberdeen Angus Beef • Scottish Highland Lamb • Free-range Pork • Free-range Chicken • Award-Winning Sausages • Wild Venison from The Balmoral Estate • Dry Cured Bacon • Home Cooked Pies/Hams • A large range of delicious oven ready products

New 2-course evening menu £11.95 (Mon-Thur) Children’s 2-course main and ice cream dessert £5.95 Quick and tasty lunch menu from £6.50

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS

CHRISTMAS 2-COURSE also available, please call for more information Christmas Cracker for All!

Fabulous 3 Course Christmas Menu

Our Festive and Main Menus are fully interchangeable.

Please feel free to choose from both. You will only be charged for what you order.

Large parties welcome

Served Lunchtimes and Evenings

£19.95

FULL A LA CARTE MENU AVAILABLE

Now Taking Bookings – Please Call 01753 652100

52 St David’s Close, Iver Heath, Bucks SL0 0RT www.palmsuite.co.uk

THE CULINARY EXPERIENCE Our concept is simple; Great Italian food full of flavour served by warm and friendly staff in charming grade II listed buildings.

With its contemporary furniture combined with wonderfully restored original features Zaza is the ideal setting for an intimate meal for two, a fresh & healthy treat for the family or even a party celebration.

W I N E TA S T I N G E V E N I N G S

£29.50 per person

Our wine club is a popular gathering of food and wine lovers alike. This enjoyable evening is held at Zaza in Rickmansworth on the last Sunday of every month from 7pm onwards. Diners have the opportunity to sample 6 wines from around the world in unlimited amounts alongside a fantastic three-course dinner menu selection, and all for £29.50 per person. The wine is available throughout the whole evening so we advise guests attending to arrange transport. Our wine tasting evenings are very popular so booking is essential.

Please see www.zazarestaurant.co.uk for this month’s wine & dinner menu.

21 Church Street, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, WD3 1DE t. 01923 772287 3-5 High Street, Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 7AU t. 01895 675352

Winter 2008

Exclusively Yours 59

Warm up this winter with an old fashioned beef pie From oxtail to offal, pies to the perfect steak, Masterchef judge John Torode is mad about beef. He shares his passion for red meat along with several recipes from his new book, John Torode’s Beef And Other Bovine Matters. asterchef judge and restaurateur John Torode can talk about beef until the cows come home.

His new book, John Torode’s ‘Beef’, is devoted to all things bovine -from the most succulent steak to offal and other cuts that have fallen from favour in recent years. It’s not for the squeamish or part-time vegetarian, but a passionate head-to-tail celebration of this mighty meat.

The Australian chef, who has lived in the UK for more than 25 years, says he felt compelled to write the book after realising that many people felt confused about what cuts of beef to buy – and how to get the best out of them.

“When I opened Smiths of Smithfield in 2000, I was already well into my love affair with all things beef, but eight years on the relationship is well and truly cemented,” John explains.

“So much of what I have read about beef is pointed toward the selected and lucky few, who have bags of cash and can afford to spend huge swathes of money.

“Good meat is not cheap, but it should not break the bank either,

M

and there are plenty of butchers who are more than willing to give you sound advice.”

While he champions the work of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, a conservation charity devoted to Britain’s native livestock breeds, John says he is a realist.

“I know full well that most people do go to the supermarket, and the majority of Britons do most of their weekly shop in big stores,” he says.

“So I’m happy to tell you that one thing the supermarkets do really well is cuts for stewing and braising. You can’t go wrong with great hunks of shin – I make the best rendang using shin, it can’t be beaten for flavour and texture.”

But he does want to encourage people to find a local butcher, who they can get to know and trust.

“This really helps when buying any type of meat. As you build a relationship with them, they will point you towards the best cuts and specials in any given season.”

If you don’t know a sirloin from silverside, and you’re worried about looking like a meat-head at the butcher’s or the meat counter, the inside of the book jacket features a complete guide to beef cuts. Swot up before you shop!

John shares this recipes from his new book – a good oldfashioned Potato-Topped Pie. His meaty dishes could be just the thing to serve up at your next Sunday lunch.

■ John Torode’s ‘Beef’ - And Other Bovine Matters by John Torode is published by Quadrille is priced at £20 and is available now.

The recipe for this Steak Tartare can be found in John’s book Beef and Other Bovine Matters

POTATO-TOPPED BEEF PIE

“My father always said ‘You can’t beat a good pie, son’, and no truer word was spoken. Great pies are full of great fillings and the great fillings come from rich, slow-cooked beef,” John says.

Serves 6 1 sheet ready-rolled shortcrust pastry 1 egg, beaten 3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 50g butter, melted, for brushing For the filling: 50g butter 2 small onions, finely chopped 1kg beef clod (from the muscly neck area, great for mince) without too much fat, chopped 80g plain flour 250ml beef stock 2 thyme sprigs 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 handful chopped parsley Salt and pepper 1 pinch grated nutmeg First make the filling. Melt the butter in the saucepan.

Add the onions and fry over medium heat until they soften. Add the beef and fry, pressing down with a fork until it has browned.

Drain off the pan juices, adding them to the stock.

Sprinkle the flour over the meat, stir, and continue cooking for another two minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and gradually add the stock, mixing well.

Return the pan to the heat and stir constantly until the mixture boils and thickens.

Add the thyme, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt and pepper and nutmeg. Cover the pan and leave to simmer over a low heat for 30 minutes.

Heat the oven to 240C/Gas Mark 9. Line your pie tin with the shortcrust pastry and prick the base several times with a fork.

Cover with a sheet of greaseproof paper and weigh down with baking beans. Bake blind for 20 minutes, then lift out the paper and baking beans and brush the pastry case with beaten egg.

Decrease the oven temperature to 190C/Gas 5.

Spoon the filling into the pastry case and top with the sliced potatoes. Brush the potato with lots of melted butter, then put the pie into the oven and bake for 50 minutes to one hour. Serve with tomato ketchup.

Time to dust of those flares

A

re you tempted by the thought of a glass of Mateus Rose? What about a crystal goblet of sweet German Liebfraumilch, or a hearty shot of creamy advocaat?

These 1970s favourites might have fallen out of fashion in recent years, but they could be on the way back. Certainly, Marks & Spencer is doing its level best to resurrect the humble Lambrusco – once responsible for many a pounding head.

M&S has just launched its own version of the sweet Italian fizz, claiming that UK drinkers will be pleasantly surprised by it.

Proper Lambrusco, made from grapes grown in the Emilio Romagna region of northern Italy, is much drier and more refreshing than the sickly sparkler you might remember.

The company’s wine expert Jo Ahearne reckons shoppers will be pleasantly surprised by the zingy, red ‘autentico’ version.

“I am determined that UK wine drinkers discover our authentic Lambrusco and give it the credit

it deserves,” she says.

“In Emilio Romagna, locals enjoy Lambrusco Autentico with food – it goes especially well with meaty dishes such as lasagne and spaghetti bolognese as it cuts through the richness of the sauce.”

So dig those old crimpelene flares out of your wardrobe and strut on down to M&S to pick up a slick-looking bottle at the 2008-style price of £7.49.

There’s a lot to be said for nostalgic drinking – last Christmas, Waitrose supermarkets noticed a 40 per cent surge in advocaat sales after Nigella Lawson advocated using it in festive cocktails. The Dutch egg yolk, vanilla and brandy liqueur flew off the shelves as Nigella fans embraced the super-kitsch Snowball (advocaat, ice and lemonade).

Even Manns Original Brown Ale, the oldest continuously-brewed British bottled beer, has seen an 11 per cent rise in sales over the last two years.

Its modest 2.8 per cent ABV, low-hop bitterness and sweet toffee flavour are finding favour with a new generation of drinkers – who are possibly also keen on its £1.19 price tag.

Sherry has become achingly cool in recent times – you don’t get the likes of Heston Blumenthal waxing lyrical about your charms without some kind of flow-on effect - and sherry giant Harveys has just launched its latest offering, Harveys Reserve.

This sherry, which is aged longer than Granny’s favourite, Harveys Bristol Cream, is made from a blend of delicate Finos, aged Amontillados and fragrant Olorosos, then sweetened with Pedro Ximenez. Treat yourself to a generous pour over ice, or slosh some over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s £10.99 at Threshers.

For a new twist on an

old favourite, fans of fortified wines might like to try pink port.

It might look a little girly, but a glass of the new generation of light ruby ports over ice is surprisingly refreshing.

Try Croft Pink Port (£9.99 at Sainsbury’s, Asda and Costcutter) or M&S Pink Port, £7.99 – but be aware that at around 19.5 per cent ABV, it packs quite a punch. Hangovers, after all, are so out of fashion.

ACHARI Flavours of India

Fully Licensed and Air-conditioned Authentic Indian Cuisine Restaurant "Your satisfaction is our Success" Free Delivery throughout Heathrow

Book early for Christmas to avoid disappointment!

Order your food online or reserve a table www.curriesonline.co.uk/achari

Opening hours: Sunday to Thursay 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 11pm Friday & Saturday 12 noon to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 11.30pm 361 - 363 Sipson Road | Sipson | West Drayton | Middx tel: 020 8476 1100 | tel/fax: 020 8476 0909 web: www.achari.co.uk

62 Exclusively Yours

Winter 2008

Victoria Road, South Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 0LJ

Tel: 020

8845 3551

1-23 Merrick Road, Southall, Middlesex UB2 4AU

Tel: 020

8571 7830

A WIDE SELECTION OF APPROVED USED HONDAS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.THAMESHONDA.CO.UK The Jazz 24 hour test drive offer is open to UK residents aged 18 years or over with a valid UK driving licence. All test drive bookings are subject to arrangement with participating Honda dealers and subject to availability of demonstrator vehicles and dealership hours of business. The Promoter and their dealers reserve the right to decline to permit any person to drive demonstrator vehicles without being required to give reasons. Each permitted driver is to complete a Disclaimer and sign acceptance of the Terms and Conditions of Use. Test drive vehicles can only be driven by the permitted drivers who are liable for any parking, congestion charge or speeding ďŹ nes. Promoter: Honda (UK) – Cars, 470 London Road, Slough, Berkshire SL3 8QY. Honda (UK) is a division of Honda Motor Europe, Registered in England and Wales No 857969. Please do not write to this address.

Winter 2008

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UK designed Nissan Note – one savvy car

N

issan’s Note is an unrepentantly sensible car. Appearing on the shopping list of savvy buyers up and down the country, Nissan describes the UK designed and built model as non-conformist.

It’s not hard to see why. The Note is a difficult car to place.

It’s larger than a traditional Bsegment super-mini such as the Nissan Micra but more compact than a C-Segment family car such as the Ford Focus.

The fact that Nissan doesn’t have a C-Segment contender will not have been lost on smart potential Note customers.

The need for one is cleverly negated through a combination of the Note and the popular crossover Qashqai – meaning Nissan essentially has two inventive models in place of a single conventional one.

Packaging is key to the Note’s ability to transcend genres.

From the outside it has a kind of old-school boxy appeal, but the design is not without its quirks.

The rear lights extend over the downward slope of the roofline,

64 Exclusively Yours

giving the rear end a more distinctive look, particularly in profile, while the bug-eyed front with its short bonnet is reminiscent of the Micra and brims with slightly goofy charm.

Height seems to be one of the model’s key attributes and, although it’s actually shorter than some of the mini-MPVs, it still offers a considerable amount of headroom.

Although hardly cramped, the rear will not accommodate three adults without a struggle.

Two adults will find it comfortable though, thanks largely to the ability to slide the rear seats forward and back and maximise the already generous legroom.

There’s also potential to maximise boot space. In an eminently sensible car, the 1.5litre diesel engine makes the most sense.

Away from the stop-start urban environment the high power diesel Note is more at ease, with a firm chassis and measured ride, responsive steering and well weighted controls.

The interior layout is traditional and very easy to live with,

although the smaller gauges are bordering on too small, with digits that can be hard to read at a glance.

High-end equipment such as auto lights and wipers are included, along with a six-disc changer, part leather, folding mirrors, alloy wheels and privacy glass. Importantly for family vehicle, ESP is standard, too.

Roomy extremely practical and cost effective, its part hatchback part MPV styling shouldn’t put off those more used to a traditional shape, as the benefits are plain to see.

Richard M Hammond

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Nissan Note 1.5 dCi 103 Tekna, £14,245 on the road.

Engine: 1.5-litre diesel unit developing 101bhp and 130lb/ft of torque.

Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox as standard, driving all four wheels.

Performance: Maximum speed 112mph, 0-62mph 11.1 seconds.

CO2 emissions: 136g/km.

Economy: 55.4mpg.

Winter 2008

www.reliance autotest.co.uk

MoT

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● MoT testing Class 4 and 7 ● Servicing, diagnostics and repairs ● Air conditioning specialists – Regas for just £30 plus VAT (No charge if the system cannot be charged)

CARS AVAILABLE

2003 (53) Hyundai Santa Fee Fe Diesels Auto.

Silver, 62,000 miles £5,495 2003 (53) Rover 75 1.8 SE Turbo Auto 4-door.

Silver, 45,000 miles £3,495 2002 (02) Megane Dynamique Convertible.

Silver, 34,000 miles, air con, electric roof £3,995

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020 8756 0266 / 0299

Unit 21, Abenglen Industrial Estate, Betam Road, Hayes Winter 2008

METRO CARS 24 hour mini-cab service

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SPECIALISING IN AIRPORT TRANSFERS, STATIONS, HOSPITALS AND THEATRES. Covering all areas in West London 24 hours ~ 7 days a week

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SATELLITE AERIAL SOLUTIONS

CLEANING AND REFURBISHMENT SERVICES FOR

Have you got a new TV, DVD, Digibox or other Freeview equipment? Are you experiencing problems? Are you ready for Digital? Thinking about a Sky or Freesat alternative?

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Selective Homes

COMPUTER PROBLEMS!!!

As a small local business we can offer you a personal service tailored to suit your needs, with quality guaranteed every time. We will offer you a reliable level of service at reasonable prices.

We are fully insured and can offer you a variety of cleaning methods, including traditional methods and the more modern reach and wash system.

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0800 032 4330 07984 795 327 Winter 2008

A A DLFR V I A N ES IL IN C A G O B LE

STARS IN YOUR EYES CABARET EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT From £19.90 including 3 course Dinner and DJ SPECIAL PROMOTION

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Please quote party menu when booking

DIFFERENT DJ EVERY WEEK

Open till 2am or come for just a drink E-mail: q-vardis@btconnect.com for free membership

The Mallard Suite Fully licensed for civil ceremonies

Set beside the River Frays and surrounded by lush green gardens, making it a picturesque dwelling for that ever important day.

• Civil ceremony and civil partnerships in the Mallard Suite (based on 50) • Bucks fizz and Pimms and lemonade served on the terrace • 3 course menu in Q Vardis restaurant • 20 bottles wine (red and white) served during your meal • Private evening reception (based on extra guests of 50) • Finger buffet for 70 guests • Door supervisor and DJ Cost of above: Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday £2,100, Friday/Saturday/Sunday £3,000, VAT at 17.5%

For appointments/viewings call Nick (Wedding Co-ordinator) 01895 270271/237559 Q Vardis Restaurant, Old Mill Lane, Cowley, Uxbridge UB8 2JH

Winter 2008

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Do you want your blinds and shutters supplied and fitted by... ✔ A company that’s been established for 35 years? ✔ A member of the British Blind and Shutter Association? ✔ Expert fitters - No sub-contractors? ✔ A family-run business? ✔ A company with a showroom, not just contact numbers? ✔ A company solely specialising in blinds and shutters?

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We We supply: Perfect Fit,Fit, Roller,Venetian,Vertical and Conservatory Conservatory Blinds, supply: Perfect Roller, Venetian, Vertical and Blinds, WoodPlantation Blinds, Shutters, Awnings and Awnings Canopies, both Domestic and Commercial contracts.

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