Vale Life Magazine Aug-Sept 2019 by Charlie Trott

Vale Life FREE MAGAZINE

Your free magazine for Aylesbury, Thame and the surrounding area

Take me home

www.vale-life.co.uk

w art w music w people w Motors w homes w gardens w theatre w business w fashion w Beauty w health w Food w

Aug/Sept 2019

Cover image: Conservatoire Folk Ensemble perform at Towersey Festival on August Bank Holiday Weekend. See page 17 for details. www.towerseyfestival.com

Inside:

Inspiring business

Just the coolest offices in town

Back to the future

Salonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning makeover

Invite to come aboard

See our website at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Splashing times at Waterside Festival Plus our columnists: Naomi, Polly, Amanda, Cathy, Lynnette, Nicola, Fran, Sandra, Shaun, Nigel, Rob, Alan, Virginie, Sherry and much, much more...

Free local listings for events and businesses

Kop Hill Climb

p Hill Climb Ko

™

FUNDRAISING FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

2019 kop hill climb Festival 21st & 22nd september Cars

Bikes

Fun Fair

Music

Soapbox Challenge

and much more . . .

The historic Kop Hill Climb in Princes Risborough Buckinghamshire. HP27 0LB. Hill Climb See pre-1979 vehicles especially ones from the event’s 1910 -1925 original era “Run the hill”?

The Cars See the cars from pre-1979 eras in action, displayed in the paddock and car clubs area.

The Bikes See the bikes from pre-1979 eras in action, displayed in the paddock and bike clubs area.

Food & Drink

Soapbox Challenge

The Music

Enjoy a wide selection of food and drink from various vendors.

See 10-17 year olds compete on the gravity-powered course during the whole event weekend.

Enjoy various music acts all weekend whilst enjoying food and drink from various vendors.

10th Anniversary Magazine – now available online priced at £5.00

Plus post & Packaging

buy discounted tickets at www.kophillclimb.org.uk

Registered Charity 1073861

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Horizontal logo

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! h o t r o ls nt fo ea p i om Po wro r d e o sh m m su Join the flush windows & doors revolution! Visit our Long Crendon showroom & see our selection of stunning, premium quality Residence flush windows & doors â&#x20AC;˘ Superior flush casement windows and doors â&#x20AC;˘ Premium grade finish â&#x20AC;˘ Stylish design â&#x20AC;˘ Built to last â&#x20AC;˘ Energy efficient â&#x20AC;˘ Enhanced security â&#x20AC;˘ Looks like timber â&#x20AC;˘ Low maintenance â&#x20AC;˘ Easy to clean â&#x20AC;˘ Choice of colours, glazing options and hardware â&#x20AC;˘ Intelligent, 7 chamber design for high levels of durability and performance â&#x20AC;˘ Traditional straight joins or welded

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Omega Homestyle has over 25 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience of designing and fitting premium doors, windows and conservatories. We firmly believe that by keeping the entire process as stress free as possible, we are adding to your enjoyment of your new windows, doors and conservatories. For an individually tailored service and to find out exactly what we can do for you, please contact us or come and visit our newly refurbished showroom. Omega Homestyle, Woodway Farm Industrial Estate, Bicester Road, Long Crendon, Aylesbury, Bucks HP18 9EP Tel: 01844 201888, email: info@omegahomestyle.co.uk or visit:

www.omegahomestyle.co.uk

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Rated as

GOOD by CQC

Individual Care in Beautiful Surroundings Outstanding care in the heart of Buckinghamshire

A place of care for over 50 years, our focus is to tailor your stay with us to your agenda and your needs. If you are in need of recovery after an operation, a break whilst family are away or maybe you are looking for specialist respite care, we would be happy to help in all cases.

First-class rehabilitation

Delicious, nutritious meals

Relaxing environments

â&#x20AC;&#x153;My stay at Chilton House was outstanding in every aspect, staff were amazingly helpful with positive attitudes, the food was excellent, and the physios worked closely with me allowing me to reach my recovery goal.â&#x20AC;? Mr A, Berkshire

Chilton House, Chilton, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9LR www.chiltonhouse.co.uk | 01844 265 200 | enquiries@chiltonhouse.co.uk

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

&ADVICE

TRAINED & INSURED

SERVICE

Let us put a spring in your step

QUOTES

QUALITY

FREE

RATINGS

you love s g g you more time for the thin n i v i g .

NEW SERVICE WOODEN FLOOR SANDING & REFINISHING

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

HARD FLOOR CLEANING & RESTORATION

OVEN CLEANING

WINDOW CLEANING

I Mop Clean offers a professional and specialist cleaning and restoration service, operating throughout Aylesbury Vale and the surrounding counties, towns and villages for both domestic and commercial customers. We offer a high quality, friendly and professional service with excellent customer care and impressive results for:

• Oven cleaning • Window cleaning • Carpet & upholstery cleaning • Hard floor cleaning, polishing and sealing • Wooden floor sanding and refinishing Tel: 01296

399450

Email: clean@imopclean.com

www.imopclean.co.uk

imopclean clean it green

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Welcome to Coco Tamarind Fine Indian restaurant & takeaway at Askett, Princes Risborough

Coco Tamarind serves the finest modern and traditional Indian cuisine, in stylish, comfortable surroundings. The relaxed ambience and efficient service, plus our well stocked bar, will ensure your time with us is a most enjoyable experience, whatever the occasion.

abba tribute with abba nights Tuesday, 22nd October from 7pm

5 course meal with entertainment only ÂŁ29.95 Book today to avoid disappointment!

l 10% discount on collected takeaways l Free home delivery within 5 mile radius (min order ÂŁ15) Become a Coco Tamarind Member and enjoy discounts and special offers l Please book ahead, we are busy all week!

Order your takeaway or reserve a table online at www.cocotamarindHP27.co.uk or call: 01844 343111 / 01844 346100 Coco Tamarind, Aylesbury Road, Askett, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, HP27 9LY

01296 01296622975 622975 07711750917 07711 750917 6

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

FF uu nn e re ra al lDDi ri re e cctot orrss 2121- -23 23 High Street,Wendover Wendover, HP22 High Street, HP22 6DU 6DU

bradleyandjones.co.uk bradleyandjones.co.uk time@bradleyandjones.co.uk time@bradleyandjones.co.uk

Local landowners, it’s time to stay ahead of the curve. MILTON KEYNES BUCKINGHAM

Thornborough

Woburn Newton Longville

Padbury

Great Horwood

Great Brickhill Mursley

Steeple Claydon

Winslow

Winslow Stewkley

BICESTER

Calvert

LEIGHTON BUZZARD

Botolph Claydon Granborough

AYLESBURY

A possible route for the Oxford–Milton Keynes–Cambridge Expressway

To succeed in the global economy, Britain must continue to build on its strengths. The ‘hi-tec arc’ connecting Cambridge, Milton Keynes and Oxford could be the UK’s Silicon Valley – a world renowned centre for science, technology and innovation. This area is a national asset, that competes on the world stage – but only with an integrated strategy to deliver new homes, connectivity and job opportunities can it release its full potential. With all these changes to the local area including new infrastructure and housing projects bringing new roads, schools, health & leisure facilities and employment there is so much to take in and to know. The Wilkinson Partnership are at the forefront, knowing what plans are being discussed, understanding the strategies being considered, considering the governance and implementation concepts that will combine to deliver the potential growth of one million new homes across the region by 2050. If you own land and want to know more about what’s going on, then talk to us today. We’re acting on 1,000’s of acres of land across the region, with a brilliant track record of success.

WILKINSON – traditional values, modern approach Breakfast Fields - Swanbourne

2018 Winner ‘Build’ Magazine Best Land and New Homes Agent – South

If you would like to discuss the opportunities within the ‘hi-tec arc’, please call 01525 382065 or email us at land@qualityhomes.co.uk

www.qualityhomes.co.uk

land & new homes Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

! R LI for ing 01 DA you n 29 Y B r ow 6 RO 20 33 C 20 66 H 66 UR E

EASTER CRUISES 2019 4 DAYS DEPARTING 19TH APRIL 2019 From £369* per person

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to spend Easter Sunday on peaceful St Mary’s in the beautiful Isles of Scilly. Relax and enjoy delicious full board PRICE INCLUDES cuisine, stylish evening entertainment and attentive service. • Return coach transfers from

Many 2020 Holidays available NOW on our website

www.cr

‘LOVE LUXEMBOURG’ BRISTOL > RINGASKIDDY (County Cork) > ST MARY’S (Isles of Scilly) > CARDIFF

usader -h

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5 4254

local pick-up points

oliday s.co.u

3 and 4 Day CHRISTMAS MARKET for 3 nights full board SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT BREAK

trips UKsuperb & early CONTINENTAL This bird getaway weekend, full of(Nov fabulous and Dec 2019) • Marco Polo Cruise as stated • Afternoon tea and late night snacks

*Based on two people sharing a fun, marvellous music and divine dining, stays at the ever tea & coffee • Black Self-service Category 1 Standard TwinSpectacular Inside Cabin; Forest Christmas Market Thursford Christmas popular, family-run 3* Grand in pretty Vianden (06.00 – midnight) 4 day travel insurance £25Hotel per person; Nov 8, 14, 15, 21, 29 & Dec 5 in the Luxembourg Ardennes. Centrally located in this £250 per person non-refundable • On board entertainment 2 & 3 days: from £199 depositHB required. atmospheric, medieval town complete with fairytale & daytime activities Full hotel payment due 3 months castle, the has long been abefore favourite with Crusader • Porterage of luggage (port departure. Birmingham Tattoo customers. Your hosts, the Peverelli family, will ensure you to cabin) Cruise T&Cs apply. have a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Highlights include two & German Christmas Market Note: Some ports, passengers will land • Port taxes evenings of live entertainment, two sparkling breakfasts launch or BB tender. 3 Days:byNov 22, + 1 dinner - £239 with local ﬁzz, two included excursions and a drink each night with dinner. Enjoy this fabulous, value for money York Christmas Market5 DAYS getaway break to one of Europe’s ‘secret’ DEPARTING corners! 19TH APRIL 2019

4 Days: Nov 29, BB - £319

BRAND NEW FOR 2019!

k 296 33 6666

53 / 01

Amiens Market & Light Show 4 Days: Nov 25 & Dec 2, BB - £349

Cologne & Bonn Christmas Markets

4 Days: Nov 29 & Dec 6, BB - £319

Maastrict & Monschau Markets

4 Days: Nov 29 & Dec 6, BB from £339 From £599* per person

ENTERTAINMENT Forest Christmas Market The perfect way to see the Black best of Holland from the picturesque Dutch Edinburgh Christmas Market On Saturday night, resident singer, Lisa, will entertain Chatsworth House 4 Days: Nov 29, Dec 2 & 6 waterways. Enjoy all the comforts of the attractive 3* river cruise ship, MV 4 Days: Nov 25 & Dec 2 with a great mix of popular songs and we have booked a Esmeralda, as you admire the ever changing scenery floating by. Visiting HB from £269 Christmas Market HB - £319 fantasticPRICE live band for the Sunday night – old timer Marcell the dazzling rainbow displays of tulips in the Spring has always been a 3 Days: Nov 22, HB - £209 firm favourite of Crusader but why not try this very special Bulbfields Trioen and hisFOR Little Red Rooster Band – always a big hit HELD Rudesheim Market Cardiff Christmasholiday Market and take to the water for Easter! No Christmas overnight sailing. with their2019 superb repertoire of 60s and 70s favourites.

DUTCH BULBFIELD CRUISE

Manchester & Sheffield INCLUDED EXCURSIONS Christmas Markets

4 Days: Dec 2 & 6, HB £329 4 Days: Nov 25 & DecDAY 2, HB - £299 1 Cross the Channel and board at Zaandam DAY 2 Optional visit to Zaanse

PRICE INCLUDES Luxembourg City & Moselle Schans (open air museum Rhine with 4 Days: Dec 6, HB - SALE £279 Valkenburg Christmas Market A full day excursion to Luxembourg City, the charming windmills) • Return coach transfers from Christmas Markets 4 Days: Nov 22, 25, 29, Dec 2–&cruise 6 to Amsterdam. little capital with its UNESCO listed Old Town in an DAY 3 Full day included excursion local pick-up plus 4 Days: Nov 29, Dec 2 & points 6 HB from £329 Lincoln Christmas Market attractive setting. through the glorious bulbfields Channel crossing

HB from £289

3 Days: Dec 6, HB - £219

plus a visit to Keukenhof Gardens.

• MV Esmeralda Cruise as Moselle River & Scenic Little Switzerland Luxembourg Christmas Re-join theMarket boat in Hoorn (no stated for 3 nights full board A local guide will show you the very best of this4 Days: Nov 29 & Dec included today). 6, HB -lunch £279 Bath Christmas Market (no lunch Day 3) picturesque area including Remich, the ‘Pearl of the DAY 4 Full day cruising around 3 Days: Nov 29, HB - £229 HIGHLIGHTS • Afternoon tea on 2 days Moselle’ and scenic Mullerthal, known as the Little the IJsselmeer and onto Alkmaar. Amsterdam Market • Late night snacks Captain’s Farewell Dinner. • Hotel for 3 nights with breakfast & dinner Switzerland of Luxembourg.

Cornish Christmas Cracker

ACCOMMODATION 4 Days: Dec 6, HB - £289

• Captain’s Farewell Dinner DAY 5with Early disembarkation & Light Festival • A drink dinner each nightfor (local beer, wine or soft drink) back home. 4 Days: Nov 29 & Decthe6,journey BB - £309

(set menu)

• 2 Sparkling breakfasts with free ﬂow local bubbly • On board entertainment for GRAND HOTEL DE VIANDEN *Based on two people sharing a • Live musical entertainment on Saturday and Sunday nights 2 nights The ever popular, family run 3* Grand Hotel de Vianden Lower Cabin; 5 day travel insurance Bruges Christmas Market is centrally located in the town and its facilities include • Porterage & welcome drink on arrival • Tour of Bulbfields & £36 per person; £100 per person 4 Days: Nov 29, Dec non-refundable 2&6 Keukenhof entrance deposit required bar, restaurant, lounge and lift. All rooms are en-suite • Two included excursions as stated above BB from £289 Full payment due 2 months before • Porterage with TV. Please note that single rooms are small. departure. Cruise T&Cs apply.

• Port taxes

All above prices do not include Travel Insurance or Single Supplements (if available). 4 DAYS | FRIDAY 15TH – MONDAY 18TH MARCH 2019 From £299 per person No single supplement* Travel Insurance £34

01296 33 66 66 (Aylesbury)

*limited (Double room for sole occupancy £45)

01255 425 453 (Clacton)

www.crusader-holidays.co.uk

Visit us: Crusader Holidays 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 2LD

01296 33 66 66 (Aylesbury) 01255 425 453 (Clacton) www.crusader-holidays.co.uk Crusader Holidays Crusader Business Park, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4HP 8

Visit us: Crusader Holidays info@crusader-holidays.co.uk 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, BucksFacebook.com/CrusaderHolidays HP20 2LD

Crusader Holidays Crusader Business Park, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4HP

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Contents 10

Holiday style your way

Race with a twist

Big show is back!

Don’t stop learning

Another lovelier world

Threat of Expressway

Our man behind Melman

Share, don’t scare

Invite to come aboard!

Learning to lip read

Beyond imagination

Inspiring business

Of lemons

Hospice coming home!

Seasonal table

Sandstorm

30 Appliance of science

Coming to the end

Setbacks or bouncebacks

A garden half empty

Relief for back pain

Show inspiration

Back to the future

Win butterfly seedballs!

Shake away your blues

Making progress

17 18 21 23 26 28

32 33 37

Ready to go, home or away!

Bucks County Show is a great day out Something for everyone at Towersey It’s Madagascar: The Musical!

A splashing time at Waterside Festival Sandra probes author Catherine Jones Gaby’s tale inspired by ink Virginie serves Provençal tart Amanda’s skin is under the ‘scope ‘It’s all in the mind,’ says Roo

Hanging with the Backstation boy Salon’s stunning makeover

Have you tried Kundadance?

A cautionary tale

hen making a will, one usually nominates executors to be tasked with administering the estate in the event of your death. Rather than give the task to a relative, at what can be a difficult time emotionally, some opt for engaging a professional, such as a solicitor and name them as executors in the will. Having experienced this situation recently, I would advise caution, for the executors are virtually impossible to change or remove. They will take control of the estate and may wish to charge a considerable extra amount, or ‘uplift’ as they like to call it, over and above their

In search of the Thame Urban Holidays can be educational New road could ruin local lives Nadia on the ethics of marketing Could classes help you to hear? Office facility is fab and funky Florence Nightingale to launch FNH@home Polly’s sandy, summer neutrals ‘So what have I learned?’ says Nigel. Sherry’s problem with plants Naomi’s back with new ideas

Grow the plants that butterflys love! Rob tests out the new Volvo S60 R-Design

laymen, as executors in your will, they can engage a solicitor to give advice and help with the admin and will be able to shop around for quotes before deciding on a suitable firm. They might decide they wish to undertake the duties themselves, which is perfectly possible, you don’t have to engage a solicitor but there are tax implications and laws to abide by, so advice should be sought. We lost a close relative recently and have been utterly hourly rate for the ‘onerous shocked at the attitude, responsibility’ involved in being arrogance and greed of a High executors. This could be a Wycombe company who I percentage of the value of your had thought of previously as house and possessions and could friendly, family lawyers. It seems easily quadruple their hourly they are a corporate money charge for the actual work done. making machine now and will If you name relatives who are happily strip an estate of as

much as they can in executors fees, whether they have earned it or not! To be fair I phoned around several other local companies to get comparative quotes and all said that they no longer charged an ‘uplift’ percentage for acting as executors. Our firm is at present sticking to their guns, despite the fact they are unable to produce any contract to show what was actually agreed fee wise with the deceased, who we are sure wouldn’t have accepted what they are claiming. We are still negotiating but may, I fear, end up having to take the case to the legal ombudsman! Happy reading and be careful!

Charlie Editor, Vale Life Magazine

To advertise in Vale Life Magazine call Charlie on: 07702 006218 Vale Life Magazine is designed and published by Vale Life Magazine, 23 Glenham Road, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3WD Telephone: 01844 261579 Mobile: 07702 006218 Website: www.vale-life.co.uk Email: editor@vale-life.co.uk Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of Vale Life. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions or late changes. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers. Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

with Lynnette Jackson

Personal stylist and image consultant Lynnette passes on tips and tricks for looking your fashionable best, plus the latest news on the high street trends...

Holiday style - your way!

ne of the many things I love about my job as a stylist and image consultant is celebrating the individuality of my clients - we are all different on the outside and the inside, and it’s these differences which should be celebrated.

John Lewis, Arizona Botanical Print Halter Bikini Top, £29

Dorothy Perkins, Gingham Black Bikini Set, £35

This holiday season, has made me think about how we all holiday differently – some relax, some need adventure, some want far flung sun, and others want the great British outdoors. So whatever your summer holiday plans are, do it in your own style! Swimwear Many of us feel a little apprehensive about being seen in a cossie while relaxing by the pool but let me help you make the most of your body shape, and therefore to feel more confident. If you are athletic and slim (you will have a small bust and a straight body shape) so choose a costume to create the illusion of curves. Think patterns, frills and embellishments, like this set from Dorothy Perkins (pic far right). If you are curvy (and have a fabulous bust line), show off those curves in a fabulous swimsuit or bikini. Remember those curves will benefit from some support though, so make sure that you get a cossie with built in support, like this botanical bikini, top centre, from John Lewis, which goes to cup size FF. Plain colours or curvy patterns

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

can work well, but leave the frills to athletic types! Wellies Whether you are camping or festival going, the unpredictability of our wonderful British weather means that you could probably do with packing some wellies. Personally I love using wellies as an opportunity to have a bit of fun and show some personality!

have a lovely feminine and floral pattern, which are perfect for the Great British Outdoors.

These Seasalt wellies, right, are a great way to introduce some colour to your Seasalt, yellow wellies (from Next), £40 outfit Whilst these from Cotswold, far right,

Cotswold, Windsor print wellies (from House of Fraser), £62.99

If you are staying local this summer - maybe doing a staycation with day trips (and why wouldn’t we, with all that is on offer right here in the Vale?!) then you will need summer staples such as shorts,

T-shirts and maybe easy to wear dresses. Use details on these items to balance out your body shape, for example: Shorts – if you have narrower hips than your shoulders, then use

colour, pattern and pocket details to give the illusion of broader hips (and a resulting slimmer waist), like these ‘paper bag’ shorts from H&M, pictured below. However, if you are more of a classic pear shape, with wider hips than your shoulders, then keep details and pattern to a minimum

H&M, Paper bag shorts, £40

on your shorts, and wear them in a darker shade. T-shirts - the trend in logo T-shirts remains strong, and those of you with a more dramatic style personality will love the statement that they make. They are also great if you have a narrower top half vs your bottom half, as the logo detail

with create width to balance out your hip line.See Hush Love T-shirt, below. Whatever T-shirt you wear though, it is right next to your face, making the colour choice really important, so have a selection of T-shirts in your best colours to call upon. Continued on page 12

Hush (at John Lewis), Love t-shirt, £32

Adams Travel Your Local Independent Travel Agent

11 Market Square, Aylesbury Tel. 01296 873017 aylesbury.adamstravel@gmail.com www.adamstravelaylesbury.co.uk

Helen Grace

Hats and Fascinators to match your outfit available to buy or hire HG

Bespoke pieces can be designed to perfection HG

Enjoy a one-to-one at our studio in Shabbington To book an appointment

T: 01844 201017 E: helen@helengracehats.co.uk W: helengracehats.co.uk Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Whistles, Graphic Zebra Linen Dress, £129

Easy dresses - I love casual dresses in summer. You only need to think about putting one item of clothing on, no matching of tops to bottoms, and they are lovely and cool on a warm summers day. As with T-shirts, dresses are next to your face – so chose the colour wisely. There are lots of patterned dresses in the shops this summer. Choose a pattern that suits you inside and out, so some things to think about: For example, do you prefer animal print or floral? Also try to match the pattern size to your frame: petites are best in smaller prints, whilst taller people can take a bigger print This bold animal print dress is perfect for a dramatic style personality, whilst this small floral print dress is great for whose of us who prefer something more feminine and subtle. I hope you enjoy your summer, your way, and in your own style! l Lynnette Jackson is an award-winning Personal Stylist and Image Consultant. She can help you look good whatever your size, shape, age or budget! Web: www.mycolourandstyle.com Facebook.com/mycolourandstyle Tel: 07971 198047

f o ot f o c u s

Gant, Breezy Harvest Shirt Dress, £135

with Jenney Klose of Feet First,Thame

Time to try a wider fit?

s Podiatrists my team and I at Feet First in Thame specialise in assessing, diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot and lower limb. We can also give advice about

foot care, gait analysis and on the best footwear for you and your family. We have a small, wider fit shoe shop, on site, where we can professionally measure your feet (best done in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest) and show you our range of wider fitting styles. This year we are expanding our range to include seletions from Fidelio, Joya, Semler, Finn and Legero, in addition to DB, a much 12

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

wider collection of styles to choose from, for both women and men. If you need a wider fit shoe because you happen to have wide feet or a problem such as a bunion it will do more harm than good trying to squeeze your foot into a shoe that is too narrow, or buying a size bigger than you need, which doesn’t fit properly and won’t provide support in the right places. We’ve listened to our customers and the new ranges will reflect their suggestions. In particular we will be stocking more ‘ath-leisure’, or stylish, modern, casual, leisure footwear. In amongst our new shoes we have some by Finn Comfort which have an anatomical footbed, they call them ‘bionic’! They are not a wider fit but are great if you need extra support. We also have some Fidelio Pro Hallux shoes, designed for those with bunions, which have a stretchable insert to accommodate your bunion more comfortably. Come and see us and get

Jenney Klose Podiatrist

your feet measured by a trained professional. The shoe shop is open Mon/Tue/Wed & Fri from 9.30am to 4.30pm but call first if visiting so we can make sure there is someone available to assist you. l Feet First, 13a Upper High

Street, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3ER Tel: 01844 261023 Email: enquiries@feet-first.org Web: www.feet-first.org

by Cathy Soughton

World War II

Airfields

ilverstone is now synonymous with the British Grand Prix but did you know that the circuit was built on the site of a World War II Royal Air Force bomber station? There were dozens of airfields built during the war, including several in the Vale, all of which are now used for other purposes with little trace of their once vital role. These airfields were mainly used for wartime training, the landscape being pretty flat once north of the Chilterns and fairly well away from the majority of German raiders. One such airfield was Little Horwood near Winslow. This was built as a satellite of the airfield at Wing. Opened in September 1942 it was used by Operational Training Units, mainly to train crews in the use of Wellington bombers, prior to them transferring to squadrons in the east of England. Often crews would take off from Wing and land at Little Horwood or vice versa. Sadly one such flight ended in tragedy in August 1943 when a

A shark mouth B-24 Liberator nicknamed ‘Beast of Bourbon’ of the 482nd Bomb Group pictured at Cheddington in 1945 Wellington crashed in Winslow High Street having failed to land at Little Horwood with a technical fault. Ten civilians and four members of the crew died and are commemorated on a plaque in the town’s St Lawrence’s church. The airfield has since been returned farmland. Cheddington was another local airfield brought into use in 1942, initially for use by the RAF and 6 Anson and 17 Wellingtons were allocated there, all twin-engine aircraft. The airfield however was small and had hills close by, so was not ideal for inexperienced pilots. Crews from the Training Unit there were deployed as part of the first ‘1000 bomber’ raid on Germany

and one failed to return. In August when the airfield at Wing became operational, Cheddington was transferred to the United States Army Air Force (USAAF) who used it to complete the training of bomber crews with 4 engine Liberators and Flying Fortresses at the base. At the end of the war the base was returned to the RAF and renamed RAF Marsworth and used as part of the Medical Training Establishment until its closure in 1952. At the end of the war in 1945, RAF Wing received thousands of men returning from Europe. It was later considered in 1969 as the site for a third London Airport but

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

fierce local opposition contributed to the plan being abandoned. The airbase at Thame was officially opened in 1941, having redeveloped the airfield known as Haddenham (and sometimes marketed as Aylesbury Airport!). Biplane Tiger Moth aircraft were allocated there as part of Flying Training Command. The main role was to train glider pilots and glider instructors and a variety of aircraft, many very elderly, were sent to Thame to tow these gliders so that pilots could prepare to fly troops into action on D Day and afterwards. As larger gliders came into service Thame proved too small and the Glider Training School moved out to be replaced by a Royal Naval Air Service Target Towing unit and RAF radio engineers. It now has an industrial estate on part of the site and has been used by gliders on a realigned landing strip. l Cathy Soughton is a local

professional genealogist and house historian providing family history and house history research: www.bucksresearch.co.uk, www.benchmarkhousehistories.com Email: soughton@bucksresearch.co.uk

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

C u r i o u s Wo r l d

by Nicky Gregory

Soldier teddies

uring WW1 in 1915 J.K. Farnell of London, (the Company that manufactured the first British teddy bear in 1906) produced tiny 3.5in ‘Mascot Bears’, which were given to soldiers, to take to war, as good luck charms and mementos of home, from wives, sweethearts and friends. They were taken to the Front by British troops and sometimes came home alone after being taken from the pockets of dead soldiers. Pocket or Mascot Bears People handmade bears for fundraising and to send to soldiers at the front. Military units used teddy bears as mascots or goodluck charms. Steiff bears were particularly popular among German soldiers, sailors and pilots and Australian soldiers had their own version, a small kangaroo. During World War II teddy bears again went to war and have been

Nicky Gregory

Curious world

The original Winnie the Pooh

Little soldier Mascot Bears present in subsequent wars and peacekeeping missions. In 1921 AA Milne bought a Farnell bear for his son Christopher, who named it Winnie, after a bear he’d seen in a Canadian zoo that had been the mascot for a troop of WWI soldiers, one of whom was from Winnipeg. 2nd. Lt. Percy KynnersleyBaddeley, of the Royal Field Artillery, carried with him a small teddy bear – which he named Edwin. After he died on 29th June

Nina’s Escape to Art

1916 aged 22, at the Battle of the Somme, the battered little bear was found and returned to his widow Verna, to whom he had Edwin been married for just six months. Edwin, sold at Christie’s South Kensington in 2002 for £4,230. June’s Mystery Object was a lid for a Victorian copper saucepan. Do you know what the mystery object right is? Email your answer

to: editor@vale-life.co.uk and you could win a voucher for Antiques at Wendover. l Nicky Gregory is the owner of Antiques@Wendover, The Old Post Office, 25 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU T: 01296 625335 E: antiques@antiquesatwendover.co.uk Web: www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk

Mystery object

ANTIQUES AT… WENDOVER A Dateline ANTIQUES CENTRE Est. 1987

Art classes in Aylesbury

Learn professional techniques to create your own beautiful art!

A QUALITY ANTIQUES CENTRE offering town and country antiques in a Tudor, brick and timber house, with wall paintings and inglenook fireplaces. Park in the Courtyard at the rear, where you will find Garden Antiques, a Tea Room, the Barn Courtyard Shops and an Artist’s Studio. We are open every day from 10am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday and from 11am to 5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

An oak tavern table, C1680 with full length drawer: £695 The Old Post Office, 25 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU Tel: 01296 625335 Email: antiques@antiquesatwendover.co.uk Website: www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk 14

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

What’s on Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Big show is back!

The Bucks County Show is one of our country’s biggest and best one day agricultural shows and it happens to take place, right on our doorsteps, at Weedon Park, just outside Aylesbury, on Thursday, 29th August...

eedon Park, home of the Bucks County Show, is located on the Buckingham Road just a mile or so from Aylesbury. The 152nd Bucks County Show will take place there on Thursday 29th August. This is among the best one day agricultural shows in the country and one of Buckinghamshire’s most popular summer attractions. In the Main Ring this year the organisers are excited to welcome back The Bolddog Lings Freestyle Motorcycle Display Team with their exciting and thrilling display of mid-air stunts and tricks. The ever popular

Giant Tortoises

Sheep Show also returns, with New Zealander Stuart Barnes at the helm, (he is also presenting a

BUCKS COUNTY SHOW THURSDAY 29th AUGUST 2019

Bolddog Lings Free Style Motorcycle Display Team, Giant Tortoises, The Sheep Show and lots more Over 200 Trade Stands along with the Best of British Livestock

WEEDON PARK (A413) AYLESBURY ‘A great family day out’

Judging the sheep

Dog and Duck display in the Countryside Arena) and there will be the rousing music and spectacle of the RAF Pipes & Drums. One particularly popular exhibit at last year’s show were the Giant Tortoises who have been invited back and are requesting a sunny spot as they like to bask in the warm sunshine should the chance arise! Once again some of the best livestock in the country can be seen together with equine classes. Plus there are more than two hundred trade stands from motor cars to jewellery, so something to interest everyone. There is a Shopping Marquee, a large Food Hall, Rural Craft Marquee and an entertaining Countryside Area with many demonstrations showing the rural way of life. The Show tries to provide a mixed agenda packed with competitions, displays and breath taking events whilst aiming to demonstrate traditional

Buckinghamshire rural and agricultural activities and the important role our rural economy plays, while informing, educating and entertaining with a diverse programme of exhibits, demonstrations and displays, from livestock classes to country pursuits, home and garden classes to vintage tractors and a host of spectacular Main Ring events - a fascinating combination which makes Bucks County Show a really fun event for all ages. There is something for all the family to enjoy so why not come along and end the summer holidays with a fantastic family day out at the Bucks County Show? Buy tickets online at www.buckscountyshow.co.uk or on the gate on the day. l Bucks County Show, Weedon Park, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 4NN Thursday, August 29th, 2019 Show Secretary: Tel: 01296 680400 Web: www.buckscountyshow.co.uk Facebook: \buckscountyshow Twitter: @buckscountyshow

01296 680400 BUY TICKETS ONLINE buckscountyshow.co.uk Buy your tickets in advance and save £s! Adult £15/Child £5. www.buckscountyshow.co.uk

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

What’s on

Can I be Frank?

by Frances Momen

Festival fit or flop? H ave you ever been asked: “Mum, can I go to Reading festival?” If so, you’ll probably remember the feeling of dread that followed. It’s not just a rite of passage for teenagers; it’s a coming-of-middleage challenge for parents too. Happily most of us (and our children) survive the experience and thereafter few plans ever seem as hare brained again, which is a blessing by the time you pack them off for university or their first job away from home. I remember accompanying my daughter, one July, to Cornbury Festival, the year before she turned 16, in the vain hope she wouldn’t like it and we could avoid the inevitable request the following year. Clearly this was a daft idea, because it meant I not only had to pay for the tickets but also turn up myself – and I didn’t see her from the second we arrived anyway! After a self-imposed ‘festivalbreak’ of over 20 years, I should have known I wouldn’t be festival-

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

You’ll find all ages at Cornbury Pic: www.bphillips.co.uk ready, let alone ‘festival-fit’. Squeezing into cut away hippy shorts set off nicely with wellies, is definitely a style better suited to teenagers than the middle-aged, who can look a bit seedy in the wrong light. That said, some do manage to pull off a ‘midult’ version of festival-fit, seem very comfortable in sequins and can look extremely hip, so good for them I say – give us some tips please! But if like me you can’t afford a helicopter to drop you off at Glastonbury, and you haven’t found another seven guests to share the

c£25k Pop-Up Hotel next year, my advice is to consider more local options - where you can cycle home in between performances if a monsoon should break, or nip home in a taxi for a quick shower if someone accidentally throws beer over you (or worse)… The Towersey festival is a good choice: it runs 23rd until 26th August this year and in addition to adult tickets and one-day passes, offers accessibility for disabled festival-goers, free entry to under fives, and separate designated activities for children and youth (12 – 17). www.towerseyfestival.com

Fran Momen Can I be Frank?

Alternatively if you feel you really are festival-weary, why not visit www.chilternsociety.org.uk/ heritage-festival/#events and have a look at a whole range of events that run from 21st September to the 6th October as part of the Chilterns Heritage Festival? Activities range from treeclimbing to vineyard tours – there’s something for all age groups and tastes – with some exclusive tours of stately homes and unique Chilterns-heritage buildings. You may enjoy something entirely new and – can I be frank - you also get to sleep in your own bed! l Fran Momen is a copywriter

and journalist. If you need help or advice on creating copy, please get in touch via email: momen.fran@ yahoo.com or www.linkedin.com/in/ fran-momen-copywriting

What’s on Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

The 55th Towersey Festival takes place at Thame Showground on August Bank Holiday weekend. It’s a friendly, rootsy, relaxed celebration that boasts an amazing line up of superb musical talent, family activities, food, drink, fun, frolics and hopefully sunshine...

he 55th Towersey Festival promises a great weekend of amazing bands, tasty food, fine ales, family fun, and more than a sprinkling of festival magic… as Oxfordshire’s longest running music festival returns to Thame Showground for August Bank Holiday weekend with another fabulous line-up of big name acts and rising stars. Fisherman’s Friends The legendary Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel, The Unthanks, and shanty singers Fisherman’s Friends all top the bill on Friday (23rdAug), while troubadour Newton Faulkner returns to the main stage on Saturday (24th Aug), where he’ll be joined by Bruce Foxton’s From The Jam, and folk rockers Oysterband. Meanwhile Sunday (25th Aug) sees ska heroes The Selecter marking 40 years of 2-Tone, alongside appearances from Dublin’s Hothouse Flowers Newton Faulker and Robert Plant-sideman Seth dance tent, the inspiring Lakeman. lantern parade, and plenty Monday (26th Aug) finds Tom of special activities for Robinson, Martin Simpson and younger festival-goers (as The Spooky Men’s Stephen part of the family-friendly Tabner, celebrating the life and All About Children and music of Roy Bailey, who appeared youth programmes). at the very first Towersey in 1965 Weekend and Day and many after that, but sadly passed Steve Harley Tickets are available and away in November. for those who wouuld The final day also features The just like a taste of the festival atmosphere, a Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain and the Festival Green Ticket offers day-long access 50-strong Conservatoire Folk Ensemble. to the main arena, with its stalls, well-stocked Aside from the music, Towersey boasts real ale bar, food vendors, Creative Quarter dozens of workshops, films, a dedicated

Oysterband

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

The Selecter

From The Jam (with drop-in activities for all), and a packed programme of performers and musical guests including world class Street Theatre, Storytelling, Dance Shows and live bands. l Towersey Festival, Thame Showground, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3JL from 23rd to 26th August 2019. Weekend Tickets from £149 Day Tickets: Adult from £35; Youth £32; Child £21; U5 Free. Festival Green Tickets from £12 (adults)/ £10 (conc) in advance. £15/13 on the day. For more information and tickets see: www.towerseyfestival.com

The Unthanks

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

What’s on Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Meet our man Whether or not you enjoyed the classic 2005 film, Madagascar, you will love this energetic stage musical based on the original story. With a powerful soundtrack that includes I Like To Move It, some great costumes and characters, plus plenty of monkeying around, action and adventure, Madagascar - The Musical! is entertaining animal magic that the whole family will enjoy... Madagascar – The Musical! is at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre from 19th to 22nd September

dead cert, feel-good, family mustsee is heading to the Waterside from 19th to 22nd September this year when Madagascar – The Musical arrives in Aylesbury! Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, the production follows the much loved crack-a-lackin’ friends Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Joining X Factor winner Matt Terry, who stars as Alex the Lion, is local lad Connor

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Dyer playing Melman the Giraffe. He is no stranger to the Waterside stage having starred as Fagin in the theatre’s first Stage Experience production of Oliver! two years ago. Connor takes on the huge role (quite literally) of Melman the Giraffe, we caught up with him to find out more: How does it feel to be performing in your hometown in a national touring production? It’s pretty amazing. I feel so lucky to be doing something I love. The Waterside is a great venue that holds a very special place in my heart. I loved

Connor Dyer plays Melman the Giraffe

What’s on Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

behind Melman! Connor Dyer (back left) as Melman the Giraffe in rehearsals for Madagascar - The Musical!

being part of their first Stage Experience and gained so much from Vivo D’Arte who have helped train me and given me so much support. I’m planning on coming back to see this year’s production of The Addams Family in August before coming with the show. What advice would you give other aspiring actors? Stick at it and work hard! I used to work behind the bar at the Waterside selling drinks and ice creams and now I’m going to be

performing on the stage in a touring musical. It feels like a dream come true and is proof that hard work pays off. How are rehearsals going? They’re going great. I’m learning lots and loving getting to know the rest of the cast who are all brilliant. Melman has a great costume, I basically become a puppeteer for the show. It’s physically demanding but really fun. I can’t wait to see and hear the audience’s response. It’s what it’s all about.

Why should people come and see the show? It’s a whacky adventure full of song and dance and some really cool and crazy animals! Also it’s playing in Aylesbury, my hometown, what other excuse is needed?! Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, you’ll have no choice but to “Move It, Move It!” Book now! Call 0844 871 7607 (calls cost up to 7p per min plus you’re phone company’s access charge) or visit www.atgtickets.com/ Aylesbury (bkg fee). Pick up a What’s On for a full line up of shows or check online at atgtickets.com/ aylesbury (bkg fee). l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Coming up at Aylesbury Waterside Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on at Waterside... Stage Experience: The Addams Family Darts Exhibition Puttin’ On The Ritz Hello Again the story of Neil Diamond Some Guys Have All the Luck Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave John Finnemore’s Flying Visit

Thu 15th to Sun 18th Aug Sat 24th Aug Thu 5th Sept Sat 7th Sept Sun 8th Sept Sun 15th Sept Mon 23rd Sept

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2018

Invite to come aboard!

Following last year’s splashingly successful debut, Waterside Festival will be returning to Aylesbury Canal Basin on Saturday, 14th September, from 11am to 5.30pm. The popular event brought local communities together last year for a fun day out by the water and this year there’s even more to enjoy!

osted around the town centre’s attractive Waterside canal basin, (surrounded by Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Bucks New University’s Aylesbury Campus, Waitrose and Travelodge) the Waterside Festival will once again celebrate both the canal’s rich, twohundred-year heritage and its continued place in our lives today. This year’s event aims to build on the success of last year, with many of the most popular attractions returning, plus a whole host of new and exciting activities as well. Waterside Festival 2019 brings a beautiful floating market, a delicious food court, outstanding music and dance performances, waterside wildlife themed arts and crafts, a host of fun and games for children (including the nostalgic merry-go-round and swing boats) and lots, lots more, including the return of the popular free fishing taster sessions and free canoeing, kayaking and paddle-boarding sessions on the canal. And, new for this year, festival-goers will also be able to hire a bike and follow the cycle paths to explore the beauty of Tring Reservoir. A full list of activities and of the fantastic partners who are helping to bring Waterside Festival to life can be found by visiting: www. watersidefestival.org This year, Waterside Festival is grateful

Paddle-boarding at last year’s Festival for Aylesbury Garden Town’s sponsorship and will be doing its bit to champion, celebrate and contribute to Aylesbury’s Garden Town status, which includes encouraging festival-goers to travel by bike to the event and take advantage of the plentiful free cycle parking, as well as delivering a ‘green’ food court discouraging the use of plastic and non-recyclable materials. Waterside Festival is a non-profit community event sponsored by Aylesbury Garden Town and co-ordinated by Aylesbury Town Centre Partnership. Be the first to know about all the exciting plans for this year’s festival by following: @watersidefestvl on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Aylesbury canal basin first opened for

business in 1815, one end of a 6¼ mile arm that flowed from the main Grand Junction Canal (now part of the Grand Union Canal) near Marsworth. Canal trade was affected by the opening of the railways to Aylesbury and later by road competition and the last cargo of coal delivered by water took place in 1964. New investment and revitalised surroundings in the town centre mean the canal basin is now entering a new chapter and the Waterside Festival is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of this historic space in the middle of Aylesbury. l Aylesbury Waterside festival www.watersidefestival.org

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

What’s on

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Friday openings

Plaster Workshops

Every Friday from 26 July – 6 September, 11am – 5pm Every Friday July – 6will be For the firstfrom time26 Claydon opening the11am doors on a Friday. September, – 5pm

Every Wednesday from 31 July – 28 August, 11am – 4pm Every Wednesday 31 July – 28 Create your ownfrom plaster piece inspired11am by the library ceiling. These August, – 4pm will be drop sessions the West Create your in own plasteron piece Terrace. So grab an apron andThese have inspired by the library ceiling. awill gobe atdrop eitherinmaking your own or sessions on the West painting one that's been ready Terrace. So grab an apron and have made. a go at either making your own or £3 per piece art been ready painting one of that's

Friday openings

For the first time Claydon will be Discover stories of on theahouse opening the doors Friday.or simply enjoy the summer sun out on the West stories Terrace. out more Discover ofFind the house or about the conservation work simply enjoy the summer sun that out on takes place to lookFind afterout thismore special the West Terrace. place or tuck into a picnic in the about the conservation work that grounds. takes place to look after this special

place or tuck into a picnic in the Throughout the summer holidays grounds. the gardens, courtyard and tearooms willthe also be open. Throughout summer holidays

Summer fun at Summer fun at Claydon Claydon

Plaster Workshops

made. £3 per piece of art

Living history hour for families Living history hour

Every Friday from 2 August – 30 August, 2-3pm Every Friday from 2 August – 30 team, Join our enthusiastic learning dressed2-3pm in period costume, as they August, explore during thelearning Crimean war Join ourlife enthusiastic team, and Florence Nightingale's role in dressed in period costume, as they it. Get the involvedwar in explore lifewhole duringfamily the Crimean discovering as a Crimean soldier and Florencelife Nightingale's role in and what were like in the it. Get theconditions whole family involved in hospitals. All children are welcome discovering life as a Crimean soldier but sessions arewere bestlike suited to and these what conditions in the ages 6-10. hospitals. All children are welcome

for families

but these sessions are best suited to ages 6-10.

the courtyardfor anddetails Callgardens, 01296 730349 tearooms will also be open.

Call 01296 730349 for details

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/Claydon Facebook: Claydon House NT Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/Claydon Photo © National Trust Images/John Millar/Garry Cooper/Grace Monson The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846 Facebook: Claydon House NT Photo © National Trust Images/John Millar/Garry Cooper/Grace Monson The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Music & Art

@50

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

1969 TO 2019

PLAYING TRACKS FROM HIS 1970’S ALBUMS GREEN, L, FISH RISING AND MOTIVATION RADIO

Playing the entire Abbey Road album on the 50th Anniversary of its release, and many more classic tracks.

NEW ALBUM ‘THE UNIVERSE ALSO COLLAPSES’

THURSDAY 26 SEPTEMBER

FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER

WATERSIDE THEATRE AYLESBURY

www.atgtickets.com

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

0844 871 7607

www.seetickets.com

o u r c r e at i v e va l e

www.aylesburyfriars.co.uk

with Sandra Smith

Beyond imagination

et’s all agree on one thing - imagination is a necessary skill when writing fiction. And we all have ideas, don’t we? But, and here’s the twist, there’s more than a few blank pages between an undeveloped concept of a story, or one dimensional character, and crafting 80,000 words into a novel which boasts tension, humour, compelling protagonists and believable dialogue. Such literary standards are second nature to Thame’s Catherine Jones, particularly when creating, let’s call them, meaty characters. “Most of my books have been about relationships, in one form or another, with a strong family element,” she shares over Rumsey’s hot chocolate. “Nice people are a challenge; you can have more fun with the baddies or those who are flawed. In Little Woodford, The Secrets of a Small Town, Amy is indiscreet but we all know an

Catherine Jones interfering busybody.” A self confessed people watcher who thrives on trivia, the trigger for Little Woodford came when Catherine was elected Town Councillor. So is the fictional town based on the local area? “Well, Little Woodford only has one pub and Thame has seven. And I don’t use people I know, though the book is quite autobiographical.” Discretion prevents me from pursuing this point, though I’m

keen to learn about the writing process. Turns out for this ex Head Girl, creativity goes hand in hand with a business like work ethic. “Mostly I write in the mornings and am very strict if I have a deadline. I divide the wordage into days when I can write and that’s what I produce, although I try and do a few hundred more, so I get to the end of the book before my deadline.” New characters in the follow up, The Bells of Little Woodford, include Miranda and Roderick. Like their fictional neighbours, the husband and wife exude realism which is why, perhaps, these novels are as engaging as they are plausible, a good tip for would-be novelists. Any others? “You need more than an idea; you’ve got to figure out how it will work, where to start and how to finish.” Having touched on pseudonyms (Fiona Field and Kate Lace) and a methodical approach to

Creative Vale

Sandra Smith proofreading, my final question relates to Catherine’s writing style. “I want readers to care,” she enthuses, “to roll their eyes and laugh.” I certainly did. Little Woodford may be fiction but, through this author’s creative skill, it is believable. And entertaining, too. For more see: www.facebook. com/catherine.jones.35513 or www.fionafield.com l Find out more about Sandra

Smith’s work as a freelance writer by following her on Twitter: @TheCurrentMrsS or visiting her website: www.TheCurrentMrsSmith.co.uk Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

What’s on

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

s h ow t i m e

with Shaun Nolan

A Stagey Summer

used to think that Summer was when theatre started to slow down, but in recent years this hasn’t been the case, and this year proves it. And I am doubly busy as I’ll not only be spending a chunk of this month in Edinburgh for the Fringe festival, but I’ll also be running around catching all the brilliant work in the Vale and beyond… Over at Aylesbury Waterside theatre’s Second Space, my friends from Unbound Theatre – the in-house company at Queen’s Park Arts Centre – are stopping off on their UK tour with a performance of their Unbound Sketchbook (Sept 7th). They’re a hilarious bunch, so catch them while you can! And if you can’t make it to that performance, they’re doing it at the Court Theatre in Tring on Sept 20th as well. Speaking of the Court Theatre, my brilliant friends in Tring Youth Theatre Project (TYTP) will be staging Our House (3rd to 7th

Shaun Nolan Showtime!

TYTP’s Our House is on from Sept 3rd-7th at the Court Theatre Sept), a jukebox musical featuring the iconic tunes of Madness, with a book by Tim Firth who also wrote Calendar Girls; A very talented bunch performing a show that never disappoints. And speaking of music, might I recommend Miroir de L’Âme, a night of theatre, classical and original music, curated (and performed) by Jacob Cole (Sept 7th at Queen’s Park). Jacob is an extremely talented musician, who never fails to entertain. Up in The Big Smoke this month, you’re really spoilt for choice. If

musicals are your bag, I highly recommend the musical version of The Bridges of Madison County at the Menier Chocolate Factory. The score – by Jason Robert Brown – is one of the most beautiful ever written and with a cast led by Jenna Russell, this UK premiere is unmissable. If that isn’t quite your thing, what about the new production of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita playing at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre from August 2nd. It’s been reimagined by visionary director Jamie Lloyd (a personal favourite

of mine) and I cannot wait. If you’re looking for a play though, might I suggest the new Branden Jacob-Jenkins play Appropriate at the Donmar Warehouse (from August 16th), the National Theatre production of Inua Ellams’ Barber Shop Chronicles at the Roundhouse (until August 24th), or Clive Owen and Lia Williams in Tennessee Williams’ The Night of the Iguana at the Duke of York’s Theatre. That should keep you busy! l Shaun Nolan is a freelance writer

and producer who also writes his own fictional stories and scripts. You can find him at @shaunycat on Twitter and if you want your show mentioned in this column, tweet him and let him know!

Pardon my English! A local dialect ‘Call My Bluff’ by Jacot de Boinod Can you guess the right definitions of the following words? 1) Bever or baver

(Buckinghamshire dialect)

A) a lean deer not fit to hunt B) a drink or meal between the ordinary meals C) a hoarder, a person who collects an astonishing array of sometimes useless objects

3) Yamp (Bucks dialect) A) to walk faster and faster involuntarily B) to close an eye so as to aim at a target C) make a loud, meaningless noise

2) Nockerlate (Herts dialect) A) foppish, conceited B) a big, fat, awkward person C) to vaccinate 4) Blawed (Berks dialect) A) uncomfortable, bothered, uneasy B) of animals in the dangerous condition of having their stomachs distended by eating too much green or forcing food C) rough, blunt, unceremonious; forward and noisy

l Adam Jacot de Boinod was a researcher for the

television series QI and is the author of The Meaning of Tingo and Other Extraordinary Words from around the World, published by Penguin Books. Having researched our rural dialect, he is setting a fun ‘Call-My-Bluff Quiz for Vale Life readers - mind your language now... ANSWERS: 1B) a drink or meal between the ordinary meals 2C) to make a loud, meaningless noise 3C) to vaccinate 4B) of animals in the dangerous condition of having their stomachs distended by eating too much green or forcing food

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

classical lass

What’s on

with Nicola Lisle

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Happy anniversaries!

t seems to be the year for musical anniversaries. Hot on the heels of Garsington Opera’s 30th anniversary season comes another crop of notable milestones. I’m particularly excited about the 25th anniversary of one my favourite opera companies, the delightfully quirky, fun-tastic Opera della Luna (www.operadellaluna. org). Founded by Jeff Clarke in 1994, Opera della Luna is one of the UK’s most versatile and energetic small-scale opera companies, and its bold, inventive versions of the Gilbert and Sullivan classics have somehow managed to appeal to new audiences without upsetting the purists. If you don’t believe me, check out the special gala performance of The Parson’s Pirates – an ingenious remake of The Pirates of Penzance – when it comes to Stowe House’s Roxburgh Hall on Friday 9th August. Expect lots of

Parson’s Pirates - Opera della Luna

Opera della Luna’s trademark zany (and occasionally risqué!) humour, along with popular numbers not just from The Pirates of Penzance but other G&S operas as well, including The Mikado, The Gondoliers and Iolanthe. Whether you are a diedin-the-wool G&S fan or have only a passing acquaintance with opera, this really is an evening not to miss. Aylesbury Festival Choir (www. aylesburyfestivalchoir.weebly.com), celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and is holding open rehearsals on 12th and 19th September for

anyone who thinks they might be interested in joining. The repertoire will include Fauré’s sublime Cantique de Jean Racine, the Hallelujah chorus from Handel’s Messiah and Elgar’s Ave Verum, all of which feature in the choir’s November concert, Choral Classics. If you think this might be for you, email: enquiries.aylesburyfestival@ gmail.com Budding composers might want to have a go at the Choral Composition Competition being run by Thame Chamber Choir (www.thamechamberchoir.org) to mark its 20th anniversary. Participants are asked to set any text by poet and former Thame resident W.B. Yeats for a 28-voice SATB chamber choir, and entries must be received by 5th August. The winning entry will be performed by the choir at the Thame Arts & Literature Festival, and will also attract a £1,000 prize. The judging panel includes the choir’s

Nicola Lisle

Classical Lass Musical Director Duncan Aspden, international conductors/composers Bob Chilcott and James Burton, and pianist/singer Anna Markland. See the choir’s website for full details. Finally, if you’re heading to the Aylesbury Waterside Festival on 14th September, you can catch Aylesbury Opera Company (www. aylesburyopera.org.uk) – currently celebrating its 40th anniversary – in action at 1.15pm and 3pm. A great opportunity to enjoy some al fresco opera in this gorgeous canalside setting. l Nicola Lisle is a freelance writer and author specialising in classical music, genealogy and social history. Follow her on Twitter @NicolaLisle1 and send her a tweet if you would like your event mentioned in this column.

Monthly FREE Drop-In

Family Hearing Events All Welcome

What to Expect Meet the audiologists, hearing support specialists, experienced hearing aid users, professional care providers and technology experts. At our HearToday events we offer FREE hearing tests & healthy ear checks Talks about hearing technology. Demonstration hearing technology available to try on the day (subject to hearing tests) Hands-on smart technology workshops - iphone, Android, ipad, Apps & Accessories

28 AUGUST 2019 10am-4pm (drop-in) 25 SEPT 2019 10am-4pm (drop-in) HAREWOOD DOWNS GOLF CLUB, AMERSHAM

THE OXFORDSHIRE GOLF CLUB, THAME

call 01844 396057 or 01494 733840 for details or see our events calendar at: www.astonhearing.co.uk Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

The ink said

Of lemons

ithout exception, Roya’s boyfriends said she had her own captivating scent: a natural, unique fragrance more seductive than any perfume. Waking up in her presence was like finding oneself lost in an orange grove, said Hamid. When Mario greeted her, he felt as if he was walking into a clean house, observing the sheen of a polished cabinet and newly waxed floors. To KJ, it was the aroma of pine forests. And Philip never told her, but it reminded him of how his mother’s hands smelled when she pushed his fringe from his forehead 26

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Ink Paintings and Micro Stories by Gabrielle Turner

and said goodnight. It was mainly in her fingertips. She noticed it when she was writing in the summer; when she filed her nails; when she curled up by the stove with a book and the fibres of the paper pressed at her skin; then, she could smell it too. That’s when her grandmother would appear, crouched on the stone floor, cutting deep crosses into hard little lemons and forcing salt into their guts. She’d cram them down into huge jars, forcing them in with her knuckles until they looked like buttocks against the glass. Leila’s Laimun Malih. They turned up in almost every dish she made. Who preserves lemons these days? Roya buys hers in a little jar from the deli, already

sliced, but that’s only if she’s cooking pilaf, or roasting a chicken with Khalaty, her great aunt. The rest of the time, she eats green olives, or mackerel from a tin, or bowls of American cereal between meetings. By some miracle, Roya had managed to keep two of her grandmother’s jars intact through thirty years and a dozen house moves. Now they’re in her pantry, filled with rice, but the lemons are still inside the glass. In the darkness of the cupboard they whisper their story to the grains, and just like that, they’re in every spoonful Roya eats. She doesn’t know it yet, but inside her there are fingertips too, and with every meal they smell a little more of lemons.

Gabrielle Turner

The ink said

l Gabrielle Turner is a writer and artist at the Phoenix Studio near Thame. As @theinksaid on Instagram she writes daily micro-stories inspired by her abstract ink paintings. Also at www.theinksaid.com and www.gabrielleturner.co.uk

out and about

Food & Drink

with Heather Jan Brunt

Prime spot for farm shop

t’s quite a coup to count a couple of prime ministers as your customers, but when your farm shop is positioned on the Chequers Estate perhaps its not quite so unusual. Daniel Hares, who opened Buckmoorend Farm Shop at Butlers Cross with his wife Steph in March 2016, says both David Cameron and Theresa May have popped in, and he has pictures on the shop wall to prove it! Cameron is a big fan of lamb apparently and May liked the peanut butter ice cream made by the Chiltern Ice Cream Company. Apart from the political celebrities, Daniel’s customers are split between Ridgeway walkers and locals who drive in to collect produce to take home. Daniel’s main focus is farming the 600 acres he manages with dad Richard, rearing Simmental cross cattle, Charollais sheep and Large White pigs in addition to raising arable crops. But he decided with his wife Steph, to start up a farm shop because, as he puts it: “When I came back onto the farm no one

Daniel & Steph Hares was actually leaving, so we needed an additional income. My Dad had been selling boxed meats since the 90s, so we already had the logistics of abattoir, packing and labelling. And the Ridgeway is so busy at the weekends.” The shop was primarily selling the farm’s meat but has now developed quite a range: “We knew there was a demand for teas and coffees,” says Daniel, ”so we catered for that but after a few months realised we would need more. In October last year we opened the kitchen, which was a significant investment.”

Award winning small batch gins distilled in Tring

Now, in addition to their superb home reared meat and great local produce (including pies, fresh fruit and vegetables, eggs, milk and Out and about cream), the shop offers hot and cold Heather Jan Brunt drinks and refreshments including bacon rolls, hots dogs and burgers have their own food with them and and traybakes from the kitchen at simply want to take a rest, but I the weekend. should imagine the delicious smells Daniel is keen to stress the emanating from the kitchen will kitchen is not really a café or tea soon have them popping over to room, it is a shop with an outdoor sample one or two products. gravelled seating area and a Steph manages the shop, helped Portaloo. But there are troughs of flowers, looked after by mum Julie, by full-time assistant, Anna. It is open Wednesday to Sunday, and separating the seating area from the car park and it offers a genuine, on Tuesdays Steph spends all day cooking and preparing the food to down to earth rustic experience. be sold. He says: “We provide “There are always improvements wholesome takeaway food and a that can be made,”says Daniel. “It convenience facility for walkers Chilterns would be nice to have a covered and ramblers and cyclistsGrown too, whoin Grown in the the Chilterns seating area for are now making us oneA of their rich source of E A rich source of Vitamin Vitamin E the winter.” Buckmoorend Farm Shop, destinations.” 10x more more Omega Omega 3 3 than than Olive Olive Oil Oil 10x Road, Butlers Cross Certainly, it is perfect for cyclists, Missenden No flavourings or GM Free, No artificial flavourings or colourings colourings Open Wed-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat/ as I cycled GM thereFree, myself andartificial it Only Saturated Fat to Sun 10am-4pm. was lovely keep my bike within Onlyto6.5% 6.5% Saturated Fat compared compared to 14% 14% in in Olive Olive Oil Oil eyesight while chatting with Daniel. l Follow Heather Jan Brunt on The couple provide a free picnic Twitter @HJBjournalist table area for people who may

Grown in the Chilterns A rich source of Vitamin E 10x more Omega 3 than Olive Oil GM Free, No artificial flavourings or colourings Only 6.5% Saturated Fat compared to 14% in Olive Oil Grown in the Chilterns A rich source of Vitamin E Grown in the Chilterns 10x more Omega A rich source of Vitamin E 3 than Olive Oil GM Free, No artificial flavourings or colourings 10x more Omega 3 than Olive Oil 6.5% Saturated GM Free,Only No artificial flavouringsFat or compared colourings to 14% in Olive Oil Only 6.5% Saturated Fat compared to 14% in Olive Oil

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Food & Drink

The Seasonal Table

Provençal Tomato Tart

his is a perfectly seasonal and classic tomato tart with my favourite French mustard crème. I use traditional French Dijon Mustard with white wine vinegar, since it compliments the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes so well.

Serves 4 Prep Time 20 min Cooking Time 25-30 min For the dough 250g White spelt flour 1 Egg 1/2 tsp. Yeast 1/2 tsp. Sea salt 2 tbsp. Olive oil 125 ml Lukewarm water For the filling 500g assorted tomatoes 3 tsp. French Dijon mustard 80g Crème fraîche 28

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2019

by Virginie Bonvalet

A few basil leaves Salt & pepper Method Preheat your oven to 190°C. Mix the flour, yeast and salt. Make a well, add eggs, oil and lukewarm water. Mix well and knead for several minutes. The dough must have a fairly flexible consistency, so you might need to add a little warm water gradually, if necessary, to soften it. Likewise, you might add flour if it seems too soft. Cover with a cloth and leave to rest whilst you prepare the filling. Cut your cherry tomatoes into quarters lengthways. Roll out your dough and place in a greased tart tin. Make a mustard crème by mixing French Dijon mustard and crème fraîche together, then spread over the bottom of the tart. Arrange the tomatoes harmoniously on the top, overlapping them.

Season and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Before serving, decorate with fresh basil leaves. You could serve it with more of the mustard crème with a fresh salad, or simply pack it up in your picnic basket... Enjoy… Bon appétit! All photographs, recipes & words ©Virginie Check out my website www.virginiebonvalet.com Email: bonjour@virginiebonvalet.com Social: @virginie_bonvalet

Virginie’s new eBook; A Seasonal Table | Spring. Is available from the Amazon Store – Or head to her website or Instagram for a link - FREE with Kindle unlimited.

Column: Nick Coffer ‘In the kitchen’

Polpettone - Italian rolled meatloaf

ake no mistake, this polpettone is pretty epic. It’s like a traditional meatloaf, only bigger, fuller, more dramatic and with more ingredients. It was created by Valentina Mamusa, who runs the delightful Valentina’s Café in Chiswell Green near St Albans. She runs it with her husband, Alberto. They always come on my show together and I call them Albertina! They moved to the UK with their young son for a new experience, opened their café and are now very much part of their local community. Italy’s loss is our gain, and this rolled meatloaf is magnificent! Ingredients 500g minced beef 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg 1 tbsp chopped parsley 6 eggs 100g grated parmesan 100g smoked cheese or Provolone 1 glove of garlic, crushed

In the kitchen Nick Coffer

200g spinach 1 pack thinly sliced bacon Method: Hard boil four of the eggs and let them cool. Pierce the spinach bag and pop it in the microwave for about a minute to wilt it. Alternatively you can pop the spinach in a pan with a little butter. Mix the beef in a bowl with the remaining two eggs, nutmeg, salt and pepper, the parsley and the cheeses.

Lay a sheet of baking paper out on the worktop. Lay the bacon out on the paper and then flatten the beef mix out into a rectangle around 8-10mm in thickness on top of the bacon. Add the spinach and top with the boiled eggs. Tightly roll the mix up, using the baking paper as you go, in the same way as you would roll up a Swiss roll. Pop this in a baking dish and leave it to chill for around an hour.

Heat your oven to 200C/ Gas Mark 5 and roast the polpettone for around 20-30 minutes. You want the bacon to have taken on lots of colour and the roll needs to be hot in the middle. When it’s cooked, take it out of the oven and leave it to rest for 30 minutes. Serve it in thick slices with mashed potato drizzled with the cooking liquor. l Hear wonderful recipes on Nick Coffer’s Weekend Kitchen every Sunday morning on BBC Three Counties radio at 11am. You can also join Nick weekday afternoons at midday for music plus local guests with great stories.

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B e au t y s p ot

Health & Beauty

by Amanda Trott

Appliance of science Science is playing an ever increasing role in beauty, so when the chance came to have my skin scientifically analysed and then treated with an active facial incorporating soundwaves and electrical pulses, how could I refuse...

any of you will know of Hartwell House, the beautiful stately home, boasting Jacobean and Georgian features, stunning decorative ceilings and panelling, fine paintings and antique furniture. Dating back nearly 1,000 years the house has a fascinating history but more recently, since 1989, has been employed as a luxury hotel and spa. The spa can be used by guests and members alike, but did you know that their extensive menu of beauty treatments are also available to the general public? And what a wonderful place to head to for a massage, pedicure, facial or any one of their long list of indulgent treatments. Recently the beauty team at Hartwell House Spa introduced the scientific skincare range, Environ. Developed in South Africa by plastic surgeon Dr Des Fernandes nearly 30 years ago, Environ uses Vitamin A as its key ingredient, an essential skin nutrient that needs to be replenished each day to make the skin more resilient and appear healthier. We have only recently become aware of just how damaging the sun can be to our skin. Most of us over the age of 40, didn’t protect ourselves from those harmful rays when we were young and don’t know how much damage has been done. Apart from the worries of skin cancer, sun damage ages our skin, so can we do anything to combat this? Is vitamin A the answer? I visited Hartwell House Spa to meet Bianca, from Environ who offers clients skin analysis using her state of the art skin scanning technology. The Visia Skin Analysis camera is a high quality scanning machine which shows any damage, not only on the surface of the skin but within its layers, unseen by the human eye. Issues can then be addressed and a solution can be found. The Visia Camera takes images of your face, and displays them on a cmputer screen, showing the condition now and keeping a record to review how your treatment results progress over time. It shows, in great detail, acne and blemishes, ultraviolet damage (from the sun) and pigmentation. In addition, Visia can assess the presence of lines, wrinkles and dehydration, as well as any redness or build-up of bacteria on the skin and gives you a skin age. Thankfully my skin is 6 years younger than me. Hooray! Bianca explained that we all have some 30

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Amanda Trott

Beauty Spot

Skin analysis

High pitched soundwaves drive the active ingredients deep into the skin degree of sun damage and mine wasn’t unusual. She was also able to assess the amount of bacteria on the skin! Apparently too few is as bad as too many! Once assessed I was introduced to Chantelle who reviewed the results of my analysis and suggested an Environ Active Vitamin Facial. The 85 minute treatment is packed with nourishing, anti-ageing ingredients and is designed to leave your skin looking radiant and dewy, after active forms of vitamins A and C and Anti-Oxidants are driven deep into the lower layers of the skin, using soundwaves and small electrical pulses. This scientific approach stimulates collagen to soften lines and improve elasticity, increase hydration and boost radiance. It’s a facial suitable for all skin types and is particularly effective at addressing sun-damage, pigmentation, premature ageing, dryness, uneven skin tone and scarring; with measurable differences after just one session. This supercharged facial is the equivalent of 77 hours of standard hands-on facial! Chantelle thoroughly cleansed my skin and then vitamin treatment gels were applied and activated using a wand that gave off sound waves and electrical pulses. It was not at all uncomfortable. My face was cleansed again

Rejuvenated me, after the facial!

Applying the creamy mask. Electrodes are attached to send electrical pulses through the mask and then a creamy mask applied all over my face, including my eyes, which felt odd at first. The mask went on like cake icing but quickly dried to a rubber like consistency and wires were attached to send electrical pulses through the mask. This worked its magic for 20 minutes, during which time, Chantelle gave me a lovely hand and arm massage. The mask peeled off in one piece leaving no mess and Chantelle moisturised my face and applied an Environ spf cream and an eye cream, leaving me feeling wonderfully nourished and hydrated. The results were visible immediately - with a noticeable difference in the skin around my eyes which looked firmer and plumper. My face was radiant and felt incredibly smooth without any post facial flush or blotches that so often mean you want to rush home and hide! Several weeks later I am still looking fresh faced and feel that the treatment has helped stimulate collagen production and is helping my facial skin to look plumper and more youthful. l To contact Amanda please email:

amandaetrott@gmail.com

Amanda is a Tropic Skincare Ambassador, see: www.tropicskincare.com/amandatrott_1

E m ot i o n a l h e a lt h

with Roo Davies

Setbacks or bouncebacks?

re You Letting Setbacks, Set You Back? There will always be times when stuff doesn’t go to plan, life throws you a curve ball and people don’t behave the way you expected. Resilience is our ability to adapt and bounce back when things don’t go as planned. Being resilient is not a character trait that some lucky people are born with. It’s a skill which you can learn, practise and become expert in. Every minute of every hour of every day, you have a choice. These choices shape your perspective; the lens which you choose to see things through. How Can You Build Resilience? It’s a combination of being aware of your thoughts and practising positive thinking. These two elements are the foundation of my framework which I call the 4 Rs. I always find it useful to have an easy way to remember techniques so

Roo Davies Life Coach

they are easy to put into practice! “I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that won’t work!” - successful American Inventor, Thomas Edison. • Recognise your thoughts. Listen to how you are talking to yourself when things go wrong. In this quote, Edison chooses to view what some may label as failures, as opportunities. • Reason with negative thoughts. By challenging negative mental chatter, you can transform your thinking and make it work for, rather than against you. Ask yourself how certain thoughts are serving you and check for evidence so that you don’t fall into the trap of making assumptions or letting

your mind run away with itself. • Reality Check. Ask yourself, what you can control? Enable yourself to keep moving forward by focussing on things that are within your control. • Reframe your approach and behaviour. Work to positively reframe situations to avoid overthinking and dwelling on a setback. Resilience can be confused with carrying on regardless of how we feel and trying to be superhuman! This is blind determination which won’t always serve you well. Coaching is a fantastic way to step back and think about your

approach to setbacks and develop thinking which enables resilience to grow. Utlimately you learn from your setbacks and bounce back. l Award-winning coach, Roo Davies, helps people to thrive rather than simply survive in both their personal and professional life. A member of the Association for Coaching, Roo offers one-toone coaching, either face to face or via video call and provides a compassionate, safe and confidential space. She also works as a Business Coach helping small business owners and delivering workshops to help employees thrive. Roo Davies (Your Life Journey), The White House, 2 East Street, Thame, Oxon, OX9 3JS Tel: 07753 756512 Web: www.yourlifejourney.co.uk Email: roo@yourlifejourney.co.uk Facebook.com/yourlifejourney.co.uk

Maria Bray

Nutritional Therapy

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Corns, calluses, cracked heels, II CAN CANTREAT TREAT corns, calluses, cracked heels, nail problems, thickened nails and can treat nail problems, thickened people who have diabetes.nails and can treat people who have diabetes. I CAN OFFER Visits in the comfort of your own Ihome, CAN aOFFER visits attitude, in the comfort your warm caring generaloffoot care own home or at my treatment room, including regular nail Thame cutting and filing and a foot massage the end of your treatment. a warm caringatattitude, general foot care including regular nail cutting and filing and a foot massageAatVISIT the end of your treatment. TO ARRANGE OR FOR MORE

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For more info: www.hypnohelp.co Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Health & Beauty Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

G o o d h e a lt h

with Sandra Smith

Relief for back pain

here’s nothing that excites David Hawkes more than a problem. He’s a fixer, you see, someone who doesn’t accept that a situation can’t be improved, instead taking delight in finding solutions, particularly when the issue is health related. In fact, it was his own back pain and debilitating spasms which prompted years of research and design, resulting in an invention that has the potential to bring relief to sufferers of all manner of conditions from sciatica to scoliosis. “Backstation takes up no more floor space than a dining room chair,” explains the 74-year-old retired bookbinder, “but could save the NHS a lot of money. This is preventative medicine at its very best.” In his Aston Clinton home the freestanding metal frame is relatively unobtrusive. It’s also simple to use, as David demonstrates. The only setting

David Hawkes on his Backstation

is to line up your eyesight, then a padded sling goes around your back and under each arm, before two loops are slipped over the frame’s handle bars. “Now,” David continues, “you put one foot forward and just bend your knees. The natural traction decompresses your spine. You stay down for five seconds and repeat this five times.” Endless back pain following a

slipped disc disappeared within a couple of weeks when David began to use the Backstation. Each patented unit, built in China to British Standard ISO 9001, costs £299 and can be used by any age as long as you’re between 4’ and 6’8”. The process seems remarkably quick and simple. So I try it to discover the spinal stretch is unlike anything you can achieve through other exercise. It’s both comfortable and relaxing, too. “When we get up in the morning our body sets itself for the day but the spine just sits there and absorbs everything we impose on it such as walking, lifting, twisting or bending over a computer.” David’s passion for his invention goes beyond a personal level. We talk about opportunities for Backstations to be available in health centres, even gyms. “Just think,” he enthuses, “so many back problems could be cured just by

Good Health

Sandra Smith bending your knees without the need for physio, GP appointments or - and this is my pet hate - pain killers.” Back problems of all guises are notoriously common. But David’s ingenuity gives every sufferer the hope of living without pain. Email: davidrhawkes@yahoo.com Tel: 07975 566076 YouTube https://youtu.be/ mPuFqe4iTf4 l Sandra Smith is a freelance

writer, follow her on Twitter: @TheCurrentMrsS or visit her website: www.TheCurrentMrsSmith.co.uk

01844 261754 | info@racquets-fitness-centre.com 32

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Back to the future!

Popular Wendover salon, Red Carpet Hairdressing, has undergone a major refurb. Passers-by will have noticed the smart new frontage, which is actually a return to the double fronted bay windows some may remember the building had back in the 50s. Inside it is a very different place though...

ollowing a fabulous refurbishment, Wendover’s Red Carpet Hairdressing is looking more stylish and luxurious than ever - the perfect setting in which to enjoy their high quality ‘red carpet’ treatment. Situated just a few yards from Wendover’s Clock Tower, on Aylesbury Road, Red Carpet was established by Angela Smith in February 2008. It was a dream come true for Angela, who grew up in Aylesbury and has always wanted to be a hairdresser and to run her own salon. She is vastly experienced having started in the industry at the tender age of 13 and then worked in Aylesbury and Tring, before setting up Red Carpet in Wendover, some 11 years ago. She still absolutely loves her job though and being able to boost a client’s confidence by turning a bad hair day into a whole new beginning. Red Carpet now has a five star rating in the Good Salon Guide and is well known locally for offering a high quality service. Red Carpet’s recent refurb is extensive adding new floors, a new reception desk and a whole new double bay frontage, in addition to fixtures and fittings and a complete redecoration. It looks amazing! “We’ve seen old photographs and the building used to have bay windows in the 50s,” says Angela, “so it’s back to the future in a way! We’ve gone for muted colours and a cool, minimalist look with greys and wood. “I love Wendover,” she says. “it’s a lovely village with a great selection if independent shops and restaurants. People come here

Red Carpet’s smart new look from miles around. It’s upmarket which suits Angela Smith the style of our salon as we provide a high quality service using luxurious, premium products.” To the back of the salon is a treatment room and beauty area where Beauty by Bonnie offers a range of treatments from facials to massage, manicures and pedicures, waxing, brow shaping, tinting, spray tans and more. Angela now has ten staff and offers a tiered styling range with prices dependant on the level of stylist. Model night appointments are occasionally available too. Some of her stylists started their training as apprentices at the salon and have moved up through the ranks as they gained experience and qualifications. All staff go on regular courses to be updated on new products, trends and techniques. “The girls here all get on really well,” says Angela. “There’s a great team spirit which I think our clients can feel. It makes for a lovely friendly atmosphere and helps us deliver the best customer service. “The name Red Carpet is to let people know they will be getting extra special treatment, ‘the red carpet treatment’. We are cutting and colouring specialists and our stylists are trained in all the latest styles and techniques. We use the fantastic Schwarzkopf colour range and lovely, luxury Pureology shampoos, treatments and conditioners, which are great for coloured hair. “We also offer the nanoSmooth Keratin

Red Carpet’s new double bay entrance

treatment that rebuilds keratin within the hair leaving it smooth, silky, shiny and manageable for several months while stopping any ‘frizz’ and Olaplex which is a miracle in a bottle, rapidly repairing and restoring hair compromised by bleaching, perming or heat. We also have Moroccanoil products which are really luxurious and gorgeous for your hair. “ Service is what we concentrate on though. It’s about the whole experience. You might be able to get a good haircut elsewhere but here you will also find a friendly greeting, a proper consultation, a great haircut, a lovely head massage, up to date magazines, (including Vale Life!), luxury products, trained, knowledgable, caring staff and beauty treatments. We have a lovely range of refreshments too and serve bubbly on Saturdays! We want your time here to be a lovely experience and for your fabulous hair to be a souvenir of that.” The refurb has created more retail space and there are ranges of label.m, Pureology, Schwarzkopf, Moroccanoil and GHD products to take home. If you’d like to experience the Red Carpet treatment, book in for a free consultation to discuss what you would like to achieve. See the website, email, phone, or pop in and enjoy the Red Carpet treatment! l Red Carpet Hairdressing 8 Aylesbury Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6JQ. Tel: 01296 625511 Website: www.redcarpethairdressing.com Open Wed & Thur: 9am-8pm, Tue & Fri: 9am5.30pm, Sat: 8.30am-4pm, Closed Sun & Mon Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Free Fitness MOT & advice session for 60 to 90 year olds

re you fit for life? Why not come to Thame Town Hall and find out how you compare with your peers and where your strengths and weaknesses are, so you can

improve your wellbeing and enjoy life more? The Functional Fitness MOT was developed in partnership between Glasgow Caledonian University, the British Heart Foundation National

Book your free 30

min MOT and advice session!

From 1 - 4 pm

Appointments can be made from Centre for Physical Activity and 23rd September, 2019, with Karen Later Life Training to assess older Copping on: 07842 684760. adults and their fitness needs. Local activity opportunities and On Friday, October 4th at Thame Town Hall, a Physiotherapist, helpful websites will be suggested on the day and representatives Occupational Therapist, Fitness from the following organisations Instructor or Postural Stability will be available with information Instructor will take you through and advice: AGE UK Oxfordshire, seven tests to assess your exercise including the Community performance. Information Network and Each test comes with a set of “normal values” for people Generation Games; Thame Leisure Centre, including Go Active Gold of different ages (From 60yrs and The British Heart Foundation. to 90yrs) and this will give Don’t miss this free chance to participants an idea of whether they are “doing well” compared to get professional advice on fitness and to find out how you are doing their peers, or whether they could for a person of your age and how beneﬁt from being more active. you could improve. If you fancy taking part, it is recommended you book an l Free 30 minute Fitness MOT and appointment in advance as if you Advice Session, Thame Town Hall, Age UKupOxfordshire, Foundation, just turn on the day you risk British Friday,Heart October 4th, 1pm to 4pm Book from Sept 23rd on: 07842 being turned away if the event is Thame Leisure Centre will all be represented. 684760 (Karen Copping). already fully booked.

Friday 4th October

at Thame Town Hall Thame Therapy Clinic Complementary Health Therapies from Experienced Practitioners 23 Upper High Street, Thame, OX9 3EX Tel: 01844 215555

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September with Karen Copping on 0784

Friday 4th Octob at Thame Town

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September with Karen

Free Skin Consultations

Age UK Oxfordshire, British Thame Leisure Centre will a

8 Hampden Square, Fairford Leys, Buckinghamshire, HP19 7HT Tel: 01296 398 180 info@fairfordleyssmilecentre.co.uk www.fairfordleyssmilecentre.co.uk : Fairford Leys Smile Centre : @FLSmileCentre 34

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

H e a lt h f o c u s

Health & Fitness

with Andy McCrea

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Concussion - the facts C

oncussion is a traumatic head injury following a direct blow to the head or indirect force transmitted to the head from elsewhere e.g. a heavy fall. It is not exclusive to rugby and can occur in hockey, gymnastics, horse riding etc. There are four R’s to remember when dealing with this condition: Recognise As a Sports Physiotherapist, my role is to perform pitch side assessments, to monitor for signs including: confusion, dizziness, irritability and symptoms such as: nausea, vomiting, headaches, memory loss and sensitivity to light. Remove If an athlete is displaying any of these signs, indicating a suspicion of concussion, the player MUST be removed from the field of play. By continuing to play symptoms may worsen and they are also at risk of further injury through poor decision making or coordination issues.

Assessing for concussion Recover When you sprain a joint, initially you rest it, and the brain should be treated in the same way. We recommend that children have some time off school to rest up but most importantly with no exposure to screens, iPads etc. These stimulate the brain thereby affecting recovery. Monitoring symptoms will help guide a return to academia and screen time. Physios can advise you throughout this process. Return? Sports medicine has made strides

in concussion management over the last few years, but for me returning to play is still poorly managed in some schools and clubs. Most sports have protocols with a minimum period of days until return to play. A common mistake is for an athlete to sit out the entire time with no contact with their physio and then make a full return to their sport once this minimum time has elapsed! What should happen is that they are guided through a graduated return to play with increasing exposure to cardiovascular exercise, cognitive decision making and ultimately contact. At Elite we monitor their recovery and symptoms during these drills to ensure there is no regression of symptoms. We are lucky to have Dr Moiz Moghal, a Consultant in Sports Medicine. He has significant experience with elite athletes in assessing the symptoms following concussion and can officially sign a sports player back to participation.

Andy McCrea Elite Physiotherapist Concussion Myths Headguards prevent concussion – not true!! Headguards do not prevent the brain rattling against your skull, they will only prevent cuts and bony injuries. They can also give a false sense of bravery. It’s only a concussion if you lose consciousness – not true!! Athletes can equally develop symptoms and become unwell without actual loss of consciousness. Finally, the take home message for me is to respect every head injury and if in doubt, sit them out. l Elite Physical Medicine. Clinics

in Aylesbury, Haddenham and Tring T: 01296 437717 E: enquiries@elitephysicalmedicine.co.uk W: www.elitephysicalmedicine.co.uk Facebook Instagram Twitter Check out our Google Reviews

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

K u n da da n c e

Health & Beauty

by Sabina Dye

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Shake away your blues

abina Dye has practiced Yoga for more than 10 years and last year became a fully qualified yoga teacher. Her classes at Wendover Library have proved popular and include Slow Flow Yoga Classes, HIIT or fast Burn Yoga, Yoga for Children and now a new class KundaDance - a Yoga workout inspired by Kundalini Yoga and Yoga for Real Life Guru, Maya Fiennes. “I learned KundaDance with Maya Fiennes last year,” says Sabina, “and I was absolutely blown away by its happy energy and inspired by its simplicity and powerful impact! I absolutely have to share it with more people!” KundaDance by Maya Fiennes is a 60-minute high intensity, fun, uplifting, cardio dance workout interspersed with slow tempo parts. It’s a creative movement class combining Kundalini Yoga, Thai Chi and Qi Gong. Think Yoga-Zumba with elements of HIIT!

KundadDance takes you on a journey through the Chakras, actively aligning your body, mind and spirit. If you like Kundalini Yoga and love to dance, this unique and joyous combination of powerful Asanas (yoga poses),

Sabina Dye

“and cultivates energy, happiness and vibrancy in your life, energising and inspiring your entire being. “The KundaDance music has been composed and recorded by Maya Fiennes herself and utilises specific healing Maya Fiennes frequencies, chosen for their powerful effect on the body, mind and spirit. Pranayama (breath-work) and “The music and mantras help mindful movement is worth unlock your full potential and reveal exploring. the true essence of your being,” says “It shakes away any blues, stress, Sabina. “It is highly beneficial and fears and insecurities,” says Sabina, very enjoyable and will make you

Yoga teacher feel great, whilst keeping you fit and healthy!” For those of you who enjoy Fast Pace Yoga, Sabina also teaches High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Yoga. l Sabina Dye is a Level 3 Adult

Yoga & KundaDance Teacher See: www.happywellyoga.com for more information about her classes. You can also connect with Happy and Well Yoga on Sabina’s Facebook Page @happywellyoga. Call, text or email Sabina to book your space M: 07578 183711 E: sabina.dye@happywellyoga.com All classes run weekly during term times only.

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Community

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

G o o d to g i v e

by Katie Higginson

Helping our charities thrive

n recent years we have seen several major scandals surrounding some large UK charities. These scandals rightly shocked us all â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the person on the street to those of us who work or volunteer for charities. And whilst the harm may have happened in distant countries or in huge multinational organisations, the scandals have had direct repercussions on our local Bucks voluntary and community groups, as trust in charities in general has been shaken. So why does this matter? Firstly, as trust has fallen so have funding levels: research has shown that 40% of us now trust charities less, and the proportion of people giving money to charity either by donating or via sponsorship has seen a steady decline between 2016 and 2018. Secondly, demand for help and services provided by charities is high and continuing to rise, with two in five of us using a charity in some

Katie Higginson

Good to give

form at least once a month. The charities on your doorstep understand local issues, they know local people and the challenges they face. Situated within communities, they deliver services which are tailored to local needs and often represent the most effective use of available resources. If we want our local charities to survive and thrive, we all need to get

behind them. At Community Impact Bucks we support voluntary and community organisations across the county by providing expert advice, training and support to get started or develop. We want them to be the best they can be. You too can play a part. Think about how you could support a local charity or community

group by giving some of your time or skills â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perhaps one-off or regularly. Choose to donate locally. If a local charity has made a real difference to your life, tell people about it and get their name heard. Your support could be instrumental in their future and help them continue to support our communities. If you need inspiration in finding a volunteer role to match your interests, time and location, visit the national volunteering databaseat: www.do-it.org for ideas and vacancies. l Katie Higginson is CEO of

Community Impact Bucks: Tel: 0300 111 1250 www.communityimpactbucks.org.uk

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Waitrose Thame Supporting the community 38

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Race with a twist! A very British fete

ollowing the success of last year’s event, Thames Valley Orienteering Club is running another Thame Urban Race, with the support of Thame Town Council, on Sunday 1st September and there will be courses for all ages and abilities. It’s a race with a twist in that there are no set routes to the courses. Each competitor is given a special map, showing a series of checkpoints around the town. The challenge is to visit all the checkpoints, using your map to choose your own route between each one. Each checkpoint is marked by a flag and an electronic timing chip is used to record your progress. Last year’s event had around 400 participants, including runners, children and families, and this year’s is set to be even bigger. Anyone can take part and no experience is necessary. It’s a unique opportunity to explore the streets, alleys and parks of Thame in an adventure race for all the family. The courses range from short

easy ones, between 1 and 3km, around Cuttlebrook Nature Reserve, to longer ones, between 5km and 10km, taking in the alleys and paths of the town centre and the complex Lea Park estate. The longer courses are geared up for the more competitive and for runners looking for a new challenge. “Most people don’t realise that orienteering can be a competitive sport,” says Mike Shires, from TVOC. “Our events attract keen runners as well as families who come along to jog or walk around a course. At Thame, we also have a special junior course which is safe for young children to have a go.” l To join in, just turn up to Thame Town Hall between 9.30am and 11.30am where there will be plenty of help on hand for newcomers. The cost is £8 for the shorter courses and £16 for longer courses, including a special detailed map of Thame to keep as a souvenir, and hire of a timing chip. You can also pre-enter online for cheaper rates. For more details visit TVOC’s website at: www. tvoc.org.uk or see the Facebook event page at: www.facebook.com/tvoclub

Before

Last year’s popular Bric A Brac stall

he Royal British Legion Fete is held in Brill Village at the gorgeous Drysdale Family home, Brill House! This year it is on Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August, from 2-4pm. This quintessentially British Fete takes place in an ideal setting - beautiful gardens with glorious countryside views - and there really is something for everyone from: Tea & Cake to Bric a Brac, Books, Produce, Bottle Tombola, a Prize Raffle, numerous fantastic children’s games and races, as well

as face-painting, the inevitable PIMMS stall, Ice creams, a fabulous Jazz Band, and the piece de resistance... a tethered Hot Air Balloon available for rides!!! We are told you just HAVE to be there and bring along the whole family! You’ll be have a great time and help support The Royal British Legion, a charity close to all our hearts. l Royal British Legion Fete, Brill House, The Green, Brill, Bucks, HP18 9RU, Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August.

After

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Education

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

E d u c at i o n m at t e r s

by Nick Andrews

Don’t stop learning

hildren don’t stop learning. It’s the summer holidays now and that will be a relief to most children; another school year done, another one to look forward to and the summer holidays stretching out into the future, never to end. Teachers will be breathing a sigh of relief, tinged with regret at the children moving on, along with a sense of trepidation of results day. It was ever thus. Parents have a role to play in making sure that the learning that their child has achieved in the academic year just gone is not dissipated by the long break - for teachers notice, in early September, that it will take at least a couple of weeks for the children to get back to where they were in late July. So, here are a couple of ideas to help this August Guided reading Your child will hopefully be

reading something at the moment. Let it be their choice. Suggest you sit together (side by side) for a while as the book is read silently by your child. As they get into their rhythm gently suggest they read out loud to you. Try not to correct too much as they complete a section. Here’s where you come in! As the section has been read, begin to ask questions about what has happened. Further perhaps; why did it happen, what is about to happen? How are the characters feeling? and so on. Finding the answers to these open ended questions is the beginnings of inference skills – and therein lies success in English exams in the future! This way your child is reading for pleasure, at their own pace and

Va l u i n g t h e va l e

being guided to think a little more deeply about what is going on. This is ‘reading to understand’, an altogether richer experience than ‘barking at print’. And after all, it is quality time together – and there is nothing more important than that. Using and applying in Maths Numeracy is everywhere, but it doesn’t live in a Maths lesson. It may well reside there but it actually comes alive in solving real life problems, especially if your child is helping someone they love who has asked for some help. There might be a little bit of acting required but the kitchen, for example, is a Maths laboratory just waiting for you to bring it to life. If multiplication is ‘multiple addition’ then tins laid out in rows and columns on the floor gives us a chance to count them in an effective way. Don’t forget, this is because you need to know how

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Education Matters many tins are in the cupboard before you go shopping for more. “So, there are 6 rows of 7 there. Let’s check that, yes. So, 2 rows of 7? Let’s count them. 14! In other words, 2‘lots of’ 7 is 14.” (2x7=14). This is where your questioning comes in again; “so what are 6 lots of 7 then I wonder? Let’s count up in 7’s.” (6x7=42) No matter how you get there, you’ll get to 42. Further, if you look at the grid on the floor from the side now – what do you notice? “Aha, there are 7 rows of 6. How many is that? Have I taken any away or added any? That must be 42 too? Let’s check that as we put them back in 6’s. I bet we do that 7 times!” (7x6=42) …and you get your cupboards tidied out. l Nick Andrews is a retired Headteacher. If you have any queries about education he can be contacted via: nickubiq@gmail.com

by Marcia Davis and Judith Longman

Threat of the Expressway o you know Rushbeds? It’s a Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) nature reserve just outside Brill. This photograph shows one of its beautiful flowering meadows awash with numerous wild flowers and species of butterflies. It is one of the very few flowering meadows left, just a fragment of the past as 98% of these meadows have disappeared. This meadow, along with Rushbeds wood, is a precious part of the ancient and protected Bernwode royal forest and hunting grounds, which date from the Middle Ages and are full of bats, butterflies and species of flora and fauna containing many important elements of Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire’s history. A delight enjoyed every day by local people and their dogs. These are just a couple of examples of the Vale’s natural and

Nick Andrews

opportunities, exercise and great fun – all on our doorstep. We all thrive on the peace and fresh air as it provides a sense of wellbeing to help balance our hectic and increasingly stress-filled lives. The countryside is our living capital but sadly this project will utterly change the character of the Vale. The route has not yet been decided but there is a consultation process due to begin this Autumn. We feel that any route will devastate our environment and Walkers enjoying Rushbeds nature reserve the quality of our lives and our There are multiple issues with this historic beauties. There are many children’s lives into the future and project, not least the environmental must be stopped. more. And they are under threat. devastation that it will cause, the Are you aware of the Oxford to If you would like further Cambridge Expressway plans? This pollution, the traffic and congestion, information, you can contact: the noise, the enormous pressure huge Highways England project www.noexpressway.org or includes a new motorway stretching on schools and surgeries and other www.noexpresswayalliance.org aspects of infrastructure and the from Oxford to Cambridge and the or: www.beag.org.uk/ or email: construction of one million new breakdown of communities which noexpresswaybrill@gmail.com enable the style of life we currently homes along the route (or the Arc We’d love your support or to hear enjoy and cherish. as the planners are calling it). your views. Whether we live in small villages The route they choose could l The No Expressway Group is go anywhere in their preferred or thriving towns, our countryside a community group fighting the provides a rich resource for us Corridor B, either West of Oxford proposed Oxford to Cambridge City (B1) or East of the City (B3). all, a combination of vital wildlife Expressway and supports local groups habitats, important food-producing One possible route in B3 could set up in Brill, Marsh Gibbon, Oakley, farmland, access to recreational pass near or through Rushbeds. Worminghall and Long Crendon.

Unlock new opportunities Aylesbury Job Fair 20

September 2019

10am - 2pm The Vineyard Centre, Aylesbury HP19 8DN

Jobs

Training

· Find out about the latest vacancies · Meet local employers · Access advice & training · All welcome · No need to book

Volunteering

Networking

To find out more contact our welfare team on 01296 732600 or email welfare@vaht.co.uk

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

d ow n to b u s i n e s s

with Philippa Batting

Help care for our planet

he global fight against single use plastic is on, and the business community has a part to play in it. Reducing plastic waste is the responsible thing to do, it’s essential for the environment, and it’s behaviour that our customers and staff will come to expect. At Buckinghamshire Business First, we are trying to reduce our use of single use plastic and some of our examples can be used by other businesses. They may seem simple, but they can be effective. We are removing single use plastic cups from our water machine and using glasses instead. We are encouraging staff to use refill bottles rather than drink from single use plastic bottles that are immediately thrown away and we are moving away from single portion biscuits and cakes that are individually wrapped. It isn’t just single use plastic that

Litter picking on a Scottish beach - much of rubbish is single use plastic waste.

we’re looking to reduce; we also use ceramic plates at events and around the office rather than paper ones, and we have a significant percentage of staff who work from home one day a week, so seeing a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions for those individuals. We have recycling boxes in the office too, which really should be the bare minimum any business

does. This activity may not seem like a lot, but it all helps. So what other actions can businesses take? If you run external events, do you insist that caterers avoid using disposables like water bottles, paper plates and sugar sachets? Perhaps hold a competition among staff to see who can recycle the most waste, or even invest in some company refill bottles for staff, which could turn into a great branding exercise! Any activity will likely begin with a waste audit to assess how much waste you produce as a company and how much of that could be recycled or re-used. From there you can plan your attack on waste. There is plenty of inspirational material online on this topic, as well as on TV shows from the likes of Sir David Attenborough and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. One other way to get inspired is to listen to the people who have had

Philippa Batting Down to business

a vantage point that very few have had. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, once said when looking down upon Earth: “When you look at it from up here, you get an appreciation of… our world being a beautiful place and we really do need to take care of it.” Why not do your bit to help the environment and if you have any good ideas for reducing waste that I can share with our local business community, please email me at: Philippa@bbf.uk.com l Philippa Batting is MD of Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF), working to support and facilitate success within the business community. Membership is free - visit: www.bbf.uk.com

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Business

Ethics in marketing

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

by Nadia Awad

Share, don’t scare

ylesbury was recently subjected to a guerrilla marketing stunt that left residents confused, angry and frightened. In case you missed it, a local college hired a marketing agency to drive up enrolment, but it all went horribly wrong. The agency planted men in black suits around town, handing out mysterious black cards to children aged 13-17, with instructions to fill in their details on a website that offered no further information, no GDPR-compliant opt-in and no age restriction warning about entering personal details without parental permission. Not only did it contravene GDPR and child safeguarding guidelines, but it scared local parents, who were unsure of the group’s intentions. Police and council officials eventually shut it all down, but not without doing considerable damage along the way. Damage

“

”

to the college’s wasted marketing budget and, worse, damage to their reputation. Advertising shouldn’t be about darkness and deception, but instead we should aim to shine a light on the best of what our clients have to offer. Play to their strengths and share their inspiring stories with the world. That’s one reason brand storytelling is the new norm. Imagine how much more engaging the college’s campaign would

have been if they had focused on showcasing their students’ success stories instead of scaring and alienating parents – the very people in whom they ought to have inspired trust. Our mission, as modern ‘brand guardians’, is to turn that around. In fact, as one of TV’s favourite ad execs, Mad Men’s Don Draper, said very succinctly, “Advertising is based on one thing. Happiness.” And that’s where the ideal of ethical marketing comes in. Any

Nadia Awad

fiveo’clockcreative

successful business must be doing something to fulfil a need or desire – and doing that well makes people happy. So, focus on that. Be open, be honest and be willing to share your business’s story with your customers and clients. They’ll respond in kind to the positivity you’re putting out there, meaning you’ll increase both your client base and the loyalty of their custom. l Nadia Awad is the Editorial Director at 5 O’Clock Creative, a branding and content agency based in Aylesbury. If you’d like ideas on how best to tell your business’s story, email her at nadia@5oclockcreative.co.uk. For more details, check out the agency’s website: www.5oclockcreative.co.uk.

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Health and Wellbeing Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Lipreading

by Molly Berry

Learning to lip read

ou know what it’s like, as we get older, we start holding the paper further away and squinting at it - time to get a sight test! Well the same sort of thing also happens with hearing. We find ourselves turning up the TV volume, and saying pardon a lot, and complain that people, especially young people, don’t speak clearly any more. It’s time for a hearing test. Hearing loss can affect anyone of any age. In fact Action on Hearing Loss estimates that one in six people in Britain has some kind of hearing difficulty, including tinnitus, and the number is rising. Hearing aids have improved enormously, they use all the advances in modern technology, and are very discrete, but even the best aids don’t cure hearing loss. It is still a problem to hear in noisy social or work environments, but all is not lost! Research has shown that joining

Molly Berry

Lipreading Classes

a Lipreading and Managing Hearing Loss Class helps to avoid the damaging social isolation that can accompany hearing loss. Lipreading classes teach you to let your eyes help your ears fill in the things you miss. We learn about letters that look the same on the lips, like p,b,m or f,v. Were you introduced to Betty or Penny? They look the same don’t they. You will learn how to check and move on. One of the best things about joining a lipreading class is meeting

others with similar experiences, most of us don’t know any other people with hearing loss, so no one understands. My name is Molly Berry, and I am profoundly deaf, I started losing my hearing when I was in my thirties, and 10 years ago I was given a Cochlear Implant. It was very successful, and so I decided to retrain as a lipreading tutor, to pass on the skills I relied on. I teach in Bucks, Beds and Herts, and have a new class starting in

September in Aylesbury. There will be a FREE taster session on Wednesday 11th September at 10am at the Quarrendon Centre. They are small friendly classes, and as well as improving lipreading skills we cover, how hearing works and the things that can go wrong, hearing aids and their care, equipment and organisations that can help, strategies to cope in various situations, and much more, oh, and we laugh a lot! l To enrol for Molly’s classes call: 01296 383403 or email: studentenquiries@buckscc.gov.uk or pop into the Quarrendon Centre if you are local. l For lipreading classes nationwide, go to: www.atlalipreading.org.uk

Flexible Fully-furnished All-inclusive office space Contracts from as little as 4 months On site business support Superb meeting room facility

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

find the right space for your business 01844 211080 www.sanderumcentre.co.uk hello@sanderumcentre.co.uk

Understanding every

you.

Because the business woman is only part of who you are

From wills, probate and powers of attorney to family law, conveyancing and employment law, we offer legal support for individuals and businesses. Call 01296 506071 or visit kiddrapinet.co.uk Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Business Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Working in a shared office space, designed to meet the needs of modern business, allows firms young and old to enjoy the benefits of a top quality professional set up, whilst keeping costs down. And you can select a package to suit your current needs, knowing that if these change, your package can too...

ituated in a gorgeous and peaceful rural location, just half a mile from Tring Railway Station in one direction and around half a mile from the town centre the opposite way, The Home Office is already buzzing with businesses enjoying the benefits of their extremely stylish, newly refurbished and fully-serviced office facilities. Pennyroyal Court, which was home to The Grass Roots Group for 35 years, has had a dramatic facelift under the leadership of Daisy Evans. Members and visitors alike are now amazed by the stunning space, which offers co-working hot-desks, fixed desks and private offices, all set around a breathtaking central atrium, employed as a communal breakout space where members can mingle and relax. The Home Office is a truly unique work environment, blending the building’s character features with the latest technology and connectivity and of course enjoys a delightfully green setting being adjacent to the grounds of Pendley Manor. The Home Office aims to attract a community of like-minded professionals who do not directly compete and can support each other with potential growth opportunities. In order to achieve this harmonious

The Home Office, Tring - Atrium and Offices environment, prospective members will need to apply and will then be offered space on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, as long as their business activities fit well with those of existing tenants. Daisy Evans is extremely proud of what is already happening at The Home Office: “As our member network has grown, we have been delighted to see the family feeling and community spirit of our group also developing. The businesses based at The Home Office all support each other, offering advice from their areas of expertise and generating new business leads for each other – it’s really lovely watching everyone benefit from their membership!” Aimed at freelancers, consultants, remote workers and small businesses, Home Office members can choose from a variety of flexible packages: ‘Director’s Bundle’ of five day passes ‘Home from Home’ hot desk membership plan ‘Bronze’ hot-desk membership plan

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Print and IT amenities High speed secure WiFi Conference facilities Free parking Self-service café and full kitchen Meeting rooms Modern, spacious environment Reception and Concierge Services Security, cleaning, insurances and other overheads included Member networking and development events

Prices start from £220/month (Home from Home hot-desk membership) – just £10 a day with an average month containing about 22 working days.

‘Gold’ dedicated desk membership plan ‘Platinum’ private office membership plan

The Home Office, Tring - first floor offices

Memberships include: l

Those interested in checking out The Home Office are encouraged to visit for a free trial day to work from the building. To find out more about The Home Office and how they can help your business grow, to book a viewing, please visit: www. thehomeoffice.com or contact Members Manager Jenny on: members@thehomeoffice. com or call: 01442 910140 to arrange a good time to pop in.

l The Home Office, Pennyroyal Court, Station Road, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 5QY Tel: 01442 910140 Email: members@thehomeoffice.com or Web: www.thehomeoffice.com Open: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – depending on membership level Reception: 8am-5pm, Monday to Friday

The Home Office, Tring - Atrium

Business Rates Relief for INDUSTRIAL Small Retail Businesses PROPERTY SALES F REACH A NEW HIGH ollowing its announcement in the Autumn 2018 Budget, the Business Rates Retail Discount Scheme has now been implemented. In these difficult times for retail this has helped to lower overheads and is freeing up cash for business growth and investment.

and coincides with the next revaluation in 2021. The discount applies to occupied retail properties with a rateable value of less than £51,000 in each of the years 2019/20 and 2020/21. Rateable values are used with a so-called “multiplier” to determine business rates liability.

This discount on the business rates for retailers, commenced in April 2019,

The Treasury has estimated that over 495,000 small retailers (approx. 90%

to let

50-52 Kingsbury , Aylesbury Prominent Retail Unit: 1,692 sq ft

This A1 town centre retail unit has a wide double frontage and is located on Kingsbury Square where neighbouring occupiers include Pizza Express, Nationwide BS, Coral Bookmakers, estate agents and various nail bars and cafés/bars. The property has a main retail area, storage, kitchenette and WCs. Rental: £29,000 per annum.

throughout the UK) are benefitting from the rates relief, which is reducing the business rates payable by approximately one third. However, currently, if your rateable value is £12,000 or less, then no business rates are payable, as long as you qualify as a small business. For properties with a RV of £12,001 to £15,000 the rates relief will go down gradually from 100% to 0%.

To Let

52 Wedgewood Street, Aylesbury A1 Retail or A2/A3 Subject to Planning, 884 sq ft

The property is located on Fairford Leys neighbourhood shopping parade and having undergone a total refurbishment is ready to go! A blank canvas with open plan retail area, kitchenette and WC, and LED lighting throughout. This shop also has access at the rear for deliveries etc and

benefits from free customer car parking. Rental: From £15,000 per annum.

INDUSTRIAL/WAREHOUSE VALUES ACHIEVE RECORD RATE PER SQ FT 10-14 Cambridge Street Retail A Opportunity For Sale HIGH ON to let or To Let

Long Leasehold: 1,014 sq ft Aylesbury: 1,250 sq ft Sales of industrial and warehouse properties in south/mid Bucks area, and indeed beyond, are reaching staggering heights. In the general South/Mid Bucks/Oxon area they have doubled in value over the last 3-4 years.

Last remaining retail unit which forms part of the newly developed Churchill Retirement Living Scheme. The property is located at the junction of Cambridge Street and New Street in Aylesbury town centre. Ready for occupation in the next 18/24 months, it is being used

NOW IS THE TIME TO SELL. If you would like a market A1 retailappraisal, shop located onplease withcontact window display, retail Cambridge Street in or Aylesbury space and offices, WCs and Alan Chandler on 01296 398383 01494 723999 town centre. storage to the rear. currently as the Churchill sales or ac@chandlergarvey.com The property benefits from Rental: Offers sought in office. Rental: £22,500 per annum – Sale Price: POA

an excellent wide frontage

excess of £25,000 per annum.

Amersham

Aylesbury

01494 723999

01296 398383

High Wycombe

Marlow

A new perspective on property 01494 446612 01628 902488

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www.chandlergarvey.com www.chandlergarvey.com Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

supported by

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Supporting Hospice Care for local families affected by life-limiting illness

www.fnhospice.org.uk

01296 429975

This is a charity event raising funds for Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, Registered Charity Number: 1119499

Hospice coming home! Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity is this year marking its 30th Anniversary and will be introducing a new expanded hospice at home service, FNH@home. Your continued support makes it all possible...

n 2019, as Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity (FNHC) celebrates three decades of incredible community support for the Hospice, the Board of Trustees has agreed to fund a new Hospice at Home service in Aylesbury Vale, starting towards the end of 2019. “Research shows that 89% of people say they want to die at home or in a hospice, with 60 to 70% preferring to die at home, where they feel most comfortable,” says FNHC’s Chief Executive Officer, Jo Turner. “Yet more than half of us will die in hospital, often following an emergency admission during the last two weeks of life.” Aylesbury Vale is the only part of Buckinghamshire without a Hospice at Home service. Evidence has shown that hospital admissions can be avoided at the end of life with the support of a Hospice at Home team. At present the Charity part-funds a small team of Clinical Nurse Specialists, and also funds a team of carers (the Nightingale 24/7 team) who can provide physical, psychological and social support for the patient and their family but are unable to deliver symptom control medications: ‘We struggled with the long wait for someone to come at night to administer painkilling injections,’ wrote a local patient in a Hospice patient survey in 2018. The new service provided by Florence Nightingale Hospice will expand the current Nightingale 24/7 team, adding qualified nurses to create a full hospice at home team. This will allow the team to provide responsive symptom control visits 24/7 and to be able to administer medication while continuing to support patients and their loved

Support your Hospice this Winter 18 Oct – Aylesbury Bake Off 1-2 Nov – Aylesbury Beer Festival 16 Nov – Andy Cowie’s Music Quiz 1 Dec – Haddenham Santa Dash 1 Dec – Tree of Light, Aylesbury 7 Dec – Tree of Light, Buckingham 21 Dec – Wendover Santa Dash 16-24 Dec – Gift-wrapping Stall in Friars Square, Aylesbury ones in being able to stay at home. They will also support discharges from the Hospice or hospital to allow patients to return home and be cared for there at the end of their life. Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity will fund a two-year pilot of a Hospice at Home service for Aylesbury Vale. This team will be known as FNH@home. The new service will cost £300,000 per year,

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

part of which will be paid for by a gift from the estate of the late Ronald William Raven. The Charity believes the established generosity, effort and support of Buckinghamshire’s local communities will make it possible to fund this new service, as well as all the current care offered by the Hospice, based on the incredible community fundraising tradition for this hospice which has developed over the last 30 years. The service provided means a lot, as this note of gratitude shows: “As I had heard such good reports and had it been really necessary, I would have been happy for my husband to go into the Hospice at Stoke Mandeville, but I didn’t want him to go back into hospital. With the help and support from Florence Nightingale, the district nurses and Doctors at Haddenham, I managed to cope and keep him with me at home. I was so grateful for that positive help, it made the last few weeks with my husband very precious for both of us. Thank you.” l Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity (FNHC) Unit 2 Walton Lodge, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QY Tel: 01296 429975 Web: www.fnhospice.org.uk Facebook: /florencenightingalehospice Twitter: @fnhospice Registered Charity 1119499

‘The Art of Wood Burning’

JØtul “fighting the cold since 1853”

The most comprehensive showroom in Oxfordshire Over 75 stoves and 15 under fire on display Kiln dried and Eco logs

Jøtul – logo

HETAS registered. Ample free parking. Boundary Business Park, Wheatley Road, Garsington, OX44 9EJ Showroom open Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm For technical advice it is advisable to make an appointment

01865 361505 www.manorhousestoves.co.uk Featured stoves from JØtul Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Homes & Gardens

Step inside

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

by Polly Gibbs

School House White No.291 by Farrow & Ball

Sand Storm

The new neutrals whipping up a storm in the world of interiors As summer peaks, hang onto it a little longer with colours that take inspiration from sandy coastlines and sunny climes. Just when you thought moody darks and greys were here to stay, the influencers do a full u-turn back to neutrals in beige and sandy tones...

ell, when I say u-turn it could become more of a full on rebellion for those not keen on the greys that have dominated interiors for the past couple of years. That’s the nature of creativity, it’s constantly shifting with every action prompting a reaction. Overreactions become trends as their popularity grows, often several gaining traction simultaneously, whilst those that peter out are micro-trends. Predictions are that sand will be a stayer, but you don’t need to rush to

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

paint over your grey walls, because these colours work in harmony with most greys - think storm clouds brewing over a beach. Plus, there isn’t a right or wrong, just love what you love and base design decisions on your space and taste. However, if you are ready for a complete change, you’ll be glad to know that these new neutrals are a world away from the overused builders staple Magnolia. Instead, play with complex sandy tones; some infused with coral that emanate Middle Eastern warmth, with Bahamian yellows that lift dull

spaces, to sophisticated nudes with a whiff of green or a smudge of black that capture gritty boulder clay sands. First up, some coral based sands. I’ve worked with Crown paints many times and find them effortless to apply with really good coverage, plus they’re good value for money. Their Sandcastle matt emulsion has a coral glow reminiscent of scorched sands, making it a good choice for cooler rooms that need some warmth (Crown, 2.5ltr £14. 99% solvent free) see picture opposite page.

Polly Gibbs Step inside Polly Gibbs, Creative Director at Coco Design, shares her down to earth approach to interiors, from design secrets to trends and everything in between. Aura Ocean Beach 958 is another dreamy colour with a more rosy undertone that will compliment taupes, greys and greens really well for a sophisticated edge (Benjamin Moore, US Gallon / 3.79ltrs, £79.50), see picture opposite page. It is worth noting that coral en

Step inside

Homes & Gardens

by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Aura Ocean Beach 958, Benjamin Moore

Sandcastle by Crown

masse can be a little insipid and is not best suited to bedrooms. Be careful teaming corals with jade greens too - this requires balance or it might feel like a doctor’s waiting room. Introducing paler woods and natural linen shades will work to break it up. Continued on page 52

‘Mark’s attention to details, such as the plate rack and bespoke drawer dividers, make everything a pleasure to look at and use.’ Unit 23, Kemps Farm, Chapel Road, Ford, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8XG Tel: 01296 706030 Email: mark@markwilliamsonfurniture.com Website: www.markwilliamsonfurniture.com Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Homes & Gardens Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Step inside

by Polly Gibbs

Sand 96, Marston & Langinger

Charles Huntington Flooring Charles Huntington Flooring

•Expert Advice •Professional Fitting •Very CompetitiveCanvas, Marston & Langinger for Residential and creates a welcoming glow and helps Commercial workto make the vast space feel more •Carpets to suit allintimate (Farrow & Ball, 2.5ltrs estate emulsion, £46.50). Budgets For yellow based, full on sunshine •Free Quotes go for it with Aura Soleil, left. This Aura Ocean Beach 958, Benjamin Moore happy colour has a rich buttery •No Obligation Continued from page 51 the whole space a soft radiance like essence to itBenjamin and drifts into the Aura Soleil, Moore sand at sunset. •Free Parking creamy woodwork effortlessly here.

•Expert Advice •Professional Fitting 96 (above) by Marston & Langinger (M&L)•Very as a backdrop. The versatility Competitive of this clean, fresh shade makes for Residential and it fabulous for any living space. Commercial work Inspired by the granular nature •Carpets of sand, composedto of suit finelyall divided Budgets rock found on coastlines and deserts, it has a myriad of uses. •Free Quotes Based primarily on yellow ochre, •No Obligation it is lifted with a touch of brighter yellow•Free and topped off with a flick Parking

Charles Huntington Flooring

I picked the main image (page The walls and ceiling are actually Totally mellow, it’s just the right side 50) to demonstrate a softer effect painted in School House White, of yellow (Benjamin Moore, Aura CARPETS VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR RODS if corals are a bit too rich for•you. which is reflecting the pinky hues. Soleil, £29 0.94Ltrs). Note howSAFETY the sofa and lamp give an off-white in this wayTAPES If you love indoor plants try Sand FLOORING •Using WOOD • BINDING

Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment

of black that whips up a green undertone.

•Expert CARPETS • VINYLSAdvice • SISAL • STAIR RODS SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES

•Professional Fitting Tel: 01296 337181 Mob: 07767370067 •Very Competitive Web: www.charleshuntington.co.uk Tel: 01296 Mob: 07767370067 for337181 Residential and 23 DUCK FARM COURT, STATION WAY, AYLESBURY, HP20 2SQ Web: www.charleshuntington.co.uk Commercial work DUCK FARM COURT, STATIONvinyl, WAY, AYLESBURY, HP20 2SQ WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON QUALITY OR SERVICE l Independent, family run carpet l Carpet, sisal, coir, hardwood l Extensive range of23traditional Charles Huntington Flooring to suit all and flooring specialists l Exclusive suppliers of Roger Oates and contemporary flooring •Carpets Charles Huntington Flooring Charles Huntington WEcan WILL NOT BE BEATENyet ON hard-wearing QUALITY OR SERVICE •Expert Advice beautiful runners l Expert fitting service at competitiveFlooring prices - we Budgets and rugs in our local area l Domestic and commercial match or better your quote •Expert Advice Providing advice and installations Advice •Expert Advice•Free Fitting to private customers, professionals•Expert and •Professional Quotes•ProfessionalFitting •Professional Fitting •Professional Fitting contractors for over 25 years •Very Competitive •No Obligation for Residential and •Very Competitive •Very Competitive •Very Competitive Extensive experience with Commercial work for Residential and for Residential•Free and Parking thatched, heritage and listed buildings. Commercial work Commercial work E

N S TA L • I L

NS • SER

• ST O

Charles Huntington Flooring

Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment

G • GU

for Residential •Carpets to suit and all Budgets •Carpets to suit•Carpets all to suit all Commercial work Budgets Budgets •Free Quotes CARPETS • VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR RODS •Free Quotes •Free Quotes •No Obligation •Carpets toParking suit all SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES •No Obligation •No Obligation •Free THE BEST IN home •Free Parking •Free Parking Budgets Opening Times: Monday to Friday •10am 5pm CARPETS VINYLSuntil • SISAL • STAIR RODS CARPETS Saturday • VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR CARPETS • VINYLS SISAL • Any STAIRother RODS SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES 10am until•RODS 4pm. time•Free by appointment Quotes Stoves, Installations Servicing SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD •&BINDING TAPES SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm Tel: 01296 337181 Opening Mob:Times: 07767370067 •No Obligation Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment Opening Times: Monday toto Friday 10am until 5pm Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm North Mill Road Bledlow Bucks HP2710am 9QP 01844 342400 info@northmillstoves.co.uk www.northmillstoves.co.uk Opening Times: Monday Friday until 3pm Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment Web: www.charleshuntington.co.uk Saturday 10am until 4pm. 10am Any other appointment Saturday until time 4pm. by Any other time Tel: by appointment 01296 337181 Mob: 07767370067 Tel: 01296 337181 Mob:337181 07767370067 Tel: 01296 Mob: 07767370067 Web: www.charleshuntington.co.uk •Free Parking 23 DUCK FARM COURT, STATION WAY, AYLESBURY, HP20 2SQ Unrivalled customer service through the commitment of our family team.

Oxfordshire • Buckinghamshire • Hertfordshire • Berkshire • and beyond

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

comforts

tern Directories

ARTICULARLY PHONE NUMBERS AND OUR EMAIL ADDRESS Step inside

ITED

web. www.chiltern Homes & Gardens

by Polly Gibbs

Drop Cloth, F&B

Tom’s Bakery & Donkey Ride

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Purbeck Stone, F&B

tel. 0771281 LEASE CHECK THIS PROOF CAREFULLY, naturally low VOCs (Volatile It works particularly well with conjure up notions of sand in the tel. 075000482 ARTICULARLY PHONE NUMBERS AND creamy off-whites like Canvas, or usual sense, they represent the more Organic Compounds). This means it’s breathable as well as hardif you want drama, team it with gritty, clay-infused sands like those web. www.chiltern OUR EMAIL ADDRESS Kilnpit, their very dark green, for found on the Holderness coast in wearing, with a creamy matt texture

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN a daring look. (2.5ltrs, chalky matt finish, £47.50. M&L).

Onto nude sands. Neutrals like Purbeck Stone (far right) and Drop Cloth by Farrow & Ball have minimal yellow undertones giving them an earthinessSand depth that’s LE S drama. WIREsubtle useful While RtoEEcreate F H C IT these shades don’t immediately W LL S

R WA Y ROLLE R E V E H WIT DOOR GARAGE

Yorkshire. Also in this colour family is Donkey Ride by Earthborn Paints, above. As the name suggests it’s inspired by donkey rides on the beach, combining a number of coastal tones to create a complex, soft beige. It’s manufactured by eco designer paint specialist Earthborn with

that makes it a dream for modern homes. (Earthborn, 2.5ltr, £43)

Lastly, an example of a more intense sand with a higher content of green pigment, this is Jitney by Farrow & Ball. See how it works equally well in period and modern settings and also sits well with grey. Continued on page 54

Operate your garage door from anywhere the houseRoofs Electric Awnings &inGlass Interior by French For Pineapple, featuring.Donkey Ride

Visit our showroom at: 6 Swan Walk, Thame, BIG BRAND Oxfordshire, OX9 3HN T: 01844 212152 E: info@shutterspecsecurity.co.uk NAMESW: www.shutterspecsecurity.co.uk

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Based insupply Thame, Oxfordshire we supply and install a range ofand garageGlass doors. Terrace Roofs by Erhardt Markisen, We and install Electric Awnings Whether it’s a space saving Roller Garage Door, a Sectional Garage Door for so can orembrace al fresco dining area or stylish sun terrace extrayou insulation a new Up andoutdoor Over Garageliving Door ourwith productsanareelegant of the highest quality with a wide choice of colours and materials.

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53 Based in Thame, Oxfordshire wePHONE supply and installNUMBERS a range of garage doors. AND YOUR EMAIL ADDRE ARTICULARLY Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

ARTICULARLY PHONE NUMBERS AND Homes & Gardens OUR EMAIL ADDRESS

tern Directories Step inside

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Continued from page 53 An easy way to raise the level of sophistication is to paint the skirting just one shade darker than the walls, then accessorise with dark leafy and lime green foliage, emerald cushions and bitter chocolate accents for contrast. Whatever your preference, do lots of testing first to see the colours in all lighting scenarios before you commit as this will really help avoid a look you hadn’t planned. Good luck and here’s to an Indian Summer. For more inspiration browse the Curious Coco dedicated ‘Sand Storm’ Pinterest board and follow @thecuriouscoco on instagram for a kaleidoscope of design inspiration.

ITED

Jitney No.293, Farrow & Ball

by Polly Gibbs

web. www.chiltern

Jitney No.293, Farrow & Ball

tel. 0771281 LEASE CHECK THIS PROOF CAREFULLY, tel. 075000482 ARTICULARLY pinterest.co.uk/curious_coco/ PHONE NUMBERS AND sandstorm instagram.com/thecuriouscoco web. www.chiltern OUR EMAIL ADDRESS

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Source List grahamandbrown.com/uk earthbornpaints.co.uk crownpaints.co.uk farrow-ball.com mandlpaints.com (M&L) benjaminmoorepaint.co.uk ELESS frenchforpineapple.com FREE WIR H

ITC WALL SW ROLLER ERY WITH EV E DOOR GARAG

l Polly is an award-winning designer, Decorex100 interiors influencer & Amara Interiors Blog Award Finalist. If you’ve got a rockin’ interior or design dilemma, message her and it could feature in the next issue. E: polly@curious-coco.com W: www.curious-coco.com Insta, Twitter, FB: @TheCuriousCoco

Operate your garage door from anywhere the houseexpert Your local garageindoor Jitney F&B

Visit our showroom at: 6 Swan Walk, Thame, BIG BRAND Oxfordshire, OX9 3HN T: 01844 212152 E: info@shutterspecsecurity.co.uk NAMESW: www.shutterspecsecurity.co.uk

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Based in Thame, Oxfordshire we supply and and install a range From our base in Thame, we supply install a rangeofofgarage garagedoors. doors for residential, commercial and industrial premises. Whether Whether it’s a space Garage a Sectional Garage Door for Door for extra insulation, or a new Up and Over Garage Door, it’s saving a spaceRoller saving RollerDoor, Garage Door, a Sectional Garage extra insulation or a new Upourandproducts Over Garage our products of come the in a wide choice of colours and materials. are ofDoor the highest qualityare and highest quality with a wide choice of colours and materials.

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PLEASE CHECK THIS PROOF CAREFULLY, Based in Thame, Oxfordshire wePHONE supply and installNUMBERS a range of garage doors. AND YOUR EMAIL ADDRE ARTICULARLY 54

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Homes & Gardens

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

safe as houses

with Nigel Grace

Coming to the end!

y prayers have been answered! After almost four months of waiting we have finally been connected to mains electricity. Deregulation and privatisation has totally changed the way that services are put into buildings. We can only use one organisation to connect us to power and then we have a choice who to actually install the meter and supply our electricity. UK Power Networks connected us on a Monday and by Friday our electricity supplier had installed the meter! So after waiting nearly four months for UK Power Networks to do their bit, our electricity supplier came and installed the meter within three days of my order. That is what I call service – although they have the incentive that the sooner the meter is installed the sooner we start using electricity and can be charged! Anyway we are now on the home straight – the kitchen is being fitted, second fix carpentry (doors etc) is underway and the house

is being decorated. So it won’t be long before we can say we are finished. Lots still to do but the end is now in sight. However many projects you have undertaken you will always learn something from your latest one. So what have I learnt on this one (apart from only buying houses that already have electricity)? The past few months have reinforced that a good working relationship with your contractor is crucial to the success of your project. Things will always crop up that are outside your control – as with our power issue. Some contractors would have made a lot of this – particularly as today so many tools need power to be operated or charging, but mine took it on the chin and supplied a generator. It was a bit noisy but it gave us power when we needed it. Another important lesson is to look after your neighbours (I know we should be doing that anyway), as building projects are noisy, they create dust and disruption. Most of us accept that these are inevitable

when your neighbour is having work done but don’t assume that they will just accept it. Advance notice and apologies work wonders (so does the odd bottle of wine or crate of beer)! Your contractor should also introduce themselves to your neighbours – and make sure the neighbours have the relevant phone numbers. On one project of ours, a few years ago, there was a storm and I received a phone call from our neighbour to tell me that the portaloo had blown over, which as you can imagine created a bit of a mess! I was glad they let me know. There is no such thing as a perfect project – issues and problems always occur, hopefully just minor ones, but when they do occur, by working with your contractor, you find a solution – it might cost money – but that is why every project should have a contingency. So by the time the next issue of Vale Life is published our project will be finished and it will be time for a rest. Although we actually have three more projects lined up –

Nigel Grace

Safe as houses

two new builds and a rather special conversion of an existing building, so maybe no rest yet! Before you ask – no it doesn’t have electricity so I’d better get onto that sooner rather than later! Watch this space for more news on how we are getting on. If you have a potential development project, need help with one or just want to talk through some ideas, then please do get in touch. You can never stop learning and listening to people’s ideas – you might not agree with all of them but it may help avoid some of those ‘now why didn’t I think about that?’ problems. l Nigel Grace MRICS is an experienced chartered quantity surveyor, who has built and redeveloped many houses himself. If you need help or advice on your building project contact him on: nigel@nigelgracelimited.co.uk

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www.stoneworld.co.uk Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

homestyling

by Marie Westerman Roberts

Sustainable living Every little thing we do in our daily life has an impact on the environment. If we shift to eco-friendly products, we can help care for our planet and work towards a sustainable future. How planet friendly is your home...

re you, like so many of us, trying to live your life greener and more sustainably? Avoiding plastic and shopping ecofriendlier? Then you also know it’s not completely straight forward. There’s a lot to think about before buying something. You need to know how it’s produced, its origin, whether it is cruelty free and so on. It’s hard to get it right all the time but I do believe that every little step we take and every change, however small, is doing good. I must admit that I’m struggling to avoid fur products as accessories in my home, and in my work doing home staging (being Scandinavian!). I don’t buy massproduced items though, due to both chemical processes and animal welfare. I make sure items are ethically produced. Wood and other organically sourced materials usually bring a nicer feeling to a room, so it’s not so much of a “sacrifice” in that way. Its more a matter of learning what is good and not good when we buy interior items and décor for the home. When looking for green furniture options, look for wooden furniture that has been crafted from sustainably harvested forests, tree farms, and even reclaimed

Eco friendly washing up liquid and washable linen dishcloth. Try Norsk, Stilla Hem or John Lewis for similar products.

Colourful bed linen from Designers Guild

wood. Products that are certified under the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensure that the wood that’s being used has been sustainably harvested. A big favourite of mine, the world’s oldest fabric, linen is now its most eco-friendly. Linen is durable, resistant to moths and carpet beetles, insulating against the cold and moisture-wicking in hot weather. It is made from flax and treated right it will last a lifetime. Designers Guild is just one brand with a gorgeous selection of linen products. More and more of us are buying and preferring not only eco-friendly and sustainable but

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Marie Westerman Roberts

Award-winning H&M cotton rug also cruelty-free products for our quality, which means you will like homes. them more and not have to replace One brand ditching wool them as quickly - so, may in fact be for animal and eco-friendly a better buy. alternatives is H&M Home. Last I feel it is an important issue year they won an award (by PETA) to embrace and I actually find it for best wool-free rug - a recycled interesting to re-think how I shop cotton rug with a turquoise and and also how I use products in a white floral pattern. The rug, more planet friendly way. I am pictured above, is part of the learning all the time. H&M Conscious range, which uses l Marie Westerman Roberts is an sustainable and recycled materials experienced home stager and the (and they are very affordable too). owner of Scandihome Home Staging Unfortunately a lot of products Services. that are good for the environment For more information visit: and cruelty free come at a slightly www.scandihome.co.uk higher price than less ethical E: marie@scandihome.co.uk PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGEONS alternatives, but they are usually T: 01844 390017 Instagram better designed and of better • Tree@scandihomeuk Felling

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Homes and Gardens

A d ro p o f s h e r ry

by Sherry Hostler

A garden half empty...

t has long been said that I am the kiss of death to plants, so when I told my husband I was going to try and get into gardening a bit more, he just looked at me like I was mad and started bringing home brochures for artificial grass. Undeterred by his lack of confidence in me, I waited for the ideal sunny weekend and then toddled off to the local garden centre in Aylesbury to see what I could find. It was like stepping into a different world. One where you need a degree in Latin to navigate the plant names, and a working knowledge of bio-chemistry to decipher which feed to get for the type of soil you have. In the end, I took a wild guess at the soil, picked the plants that looked pretty, and didn’t buy any plant food at all. You can see where I might have been going wrong all these years.

The Lupins looked lovely at the garden centre!

Sherry Hostler

A drop of Sherry

Nevertheless, the lady at the till was very impressed with my selection. “It makes my day when someone buys lupins.” She told me, pointing at the tall yellow things in my trolly. “Oh, and look at those beautiful delphiniums.” They were the blue things. Around £100 lighter, I managed to get all the plant life home in one piece, which was a great start. Unfortunately by the time I got home the sun had gone in and was

replaced with rain, so I lined my haul up against the side of the house in their pots, ready for me to plant when the weather improved a bit - I mean, who does gardening in bad weather!? It rained pretty much for the next week, then it was windy, then I was at work, and then I just couldn’t be bothered. And meanwhile, the plants continued to wait patiently, looking baleful in their pots. “Shouldn’t you get them in the ground?” my husband would ask

now and again. “They’ll be fine I told him. They’d be in pots at the garden centre wouldn’t they.” Anyway to cut a long story short, one that is painful for both my bank account and the plants, only two out of the ten lived to tell the tale, and lupins are definitely not my friends. Since then I have repeated the same process approximately three times, the garden centre has a restraining order on me, and we are actively discussing astroturf... l Sherry Hostler is a freelance

writer and blogger. She loves dogs, red wine and snowboarding, but not all at the same time. You can find her at www.adropofsherry.com

Your Local

Electrician

Call Carl: 01296 320556 carl@paradigmelectricalsolutions.co.uk

Are you finding it difficult to get those little jobs done? Call Carl - I love jobs of all sizes!

WhatsApp Your Quote 07428 754772

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Homes & Gardens Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

In the garden

with Naomi MacKay

Show inspiration Garden shows are the perfect place to pick up ideas for your own garden, from planting combinations to design inspiration and container suggestions. Here Naomi MacKay shares some of the ideas she spotted at this year’s RHS Chatsworth Flower Show... Creative containers There’s not much you can do with a leaky old wellington boot, but the Welligogs stand had the perfect suggestion

Embrace shades of grey

Welligog planters! Shabby chic Well-worn pastels are the inspiration inside and outside the home. You may not have a whole

truck full of flowers, but a few pots of well-placed cut flowers are ideal for livening up a patio or other area for a party or barbecue

Shades of grey Grey is an interior designer’s dream, and now it is making its way outside in various shades of

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In the garden

Homes & Gardens with Naomi MacKay

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Shabby chic garden paint. Here, a blue-grey shade adds some subtle colour to the deck and matching chair. Shed Chic When is a shed not a shed? When itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been

turned into a mini tearoom! If you are feeling creative, it wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take too much hard work to turn an ancient, weatherbeaten shed into SO1113feature - Wayne this fantastic, whimsical garden (see Wiseman Business Card FINAL ART.pdf picture next page). Shed chic Continued on page 54

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Reviewed on Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

17/04

Homes & Gardens Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

In the garden

with Naomi MacKay

Meals on wheels Continued from page 53 Meals on wheels Short on veg-growing space? Make a temporary veg patch from a hessian-lined wheelbarrow!

It’s a wrap

It’s a wrap If you don’t like the look of your pots, cover them up! Ugly plastic pots, or pots that are the wrong colour for your garden scheme can be wrapped in hessian sacking for a rustic look.

Salad on a stand Plant cut-and-come-again salad leaves in attractive pots and fill a stand by your back door for salad on tap! Sweet treat for birds Here’s a project for the kids in the summer holidays. Poke bamboo sticks through the centre of empty orange halves, wrap twine underneath to keep them in position, then fill with a seed/fat mixture.

Treats for birds From light to dark Create a garden or border that takes you from light to dark. Plant white and silver plants at one end, then follow through with lilac and green and through dark blue and purple to deep red and purple shades.

l Naomi MacKay is a Bucks-based freelance writer and editor who specialises in gardens. She also helps small businesses get their message to

potential clients using websites, blogs, social media and more traditional printed products. Email: naomimackay@gmail.com

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

s l ow c h i lt e r n s

Homes & Gardens by Neil Matthews

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Garden with a difference

e’re into that time of year when people get out into their gardens, and other people’s gardens too! Waterperry Gardens are certainly worth a visit. Just west of Thame on the Oxford Road, they were once famous as the site of a School of Horticulture for Ladies between 1932 and 1971. They include a traditional herbaceous border, rose and alpine gardens and a lily canal, and they hold the national collection of Kabschia saxifrages. There is an admission charge for the gardens, but the other parts of the site are free. These include a plant centre, a gift shop, a gallery selling works by UK artists and a tea room, providing light lunches and teas, with plentiful seating. The gardens are open all year round except between Christmas and New Year (for details, see www.waterperrygardens.co.uk or call 01844 339254). And there are

Neil Matthews

Slow Chilterns

Herbaceous borders at Waterperry three bonus features you shouldn’t miss while you’re there:• The Saxon-era Waterperry Church has some notable medieval brasses, a 14th-century tomb effigy of Sir Robert FitzElys (d. circa 1346), a Sheriff of Oxfordshire and an owner of Waterperry Manor, and some very old stained glass - the glass in one window on the nave’s north side dates to the 1220s. • Tours of Waterperry House take place on Wednesday and Friday afternoons (buy the tickets in Waterperry’s gift shop). The house is part Georgian

and part Jacobean, but the highlight is the set of 40-foot high frescoes. The artwork tells various allegorical stories, but it’s fun just to look at the riot of birds and animals in close, sometimes incongruous, proximity, with lions and sheep in the same field and elephants swimming in the same river as crocodiles. • Set in an old granary building, the Museum of Rural Life (open 10am-5pm Tue-Sun, free entry) houses an eccentric collection of exhibits, with dryly humorous captions. Some items, such as horse brasses and beer barrels,

will be familiar. But you may never have seen a clockwork crow scarer before, or seamless rubber boots which Dunlop claimed would prevent foot rot in sheep. There’s an Open All Hours-style till from Ronnie Barker’s old bric-a-brac shop, too – with keys in pre-decimal currency, but sadly no sign of Arkwright or David Jason’s G-G-G-Granville. l Slow Travel: the Chilterns and the Thames Valley, by Helen and Neil Matthews is available now via: www.bradtguides.com www.slowchilterns.com

Win a tin of Butterfly seedballs

id you take part in the Big Butterfly Count? It’s a nationwide survey run by Butterfly Conservation which took place from Friday 19th July to Sunday 11th August. It aims to help us assess the health of our environment and the butterfly and moth population in the UK. See: www.bigbutterflycount.org/ It’s lovely to see butterflys in your garden and if you’d like to attract them there are certain plants that work better than others. Seedball’s Butterfly Mix is a combination of five native wildflowers that butterflies can’t get enough of – recommended by Butterfly Conservation - that are simple and easy to grow. It includes both early and late summer flowering plants, including: • Forget Me Not – a small plant with dainty blue-grey flowers • Red Campion – with its small red pink petals • Yarrow – an aromatic herb with an umbrella of tiny white flowers • Purple

Loosestrife – a spectacular spike of magenta flowers • Musk Mallow – swathes of small rose pink petals You simply throw the seed balls onto soil or compost in a garden bed or planter, water well and watch them grow. Made from clay, peat-free compost, seeds and chilli powder, seed balls have their own mini ecosystem, protecting seeds from birds, ants and slugs and giving them the nutrition they need to get a head start and germinate easily. Each tin contains 20 seed balls, with 30 seeds per ball, enough to cover 1sq m in a garden bed or 3-5 medium sized pots (leave at least 10cm between each ball).

Best scattered in Spring or Autumn. If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning a tin of Seedball’s Butterfly Mix, please email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Are butterflys birds, insects or reptiles? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by 4th Sept 2019. l www.seedball.co.uk/product/ butterfly-mix/

Farm Shop open Thursdays 11am-6.30pm & Saturdays 10am-2pm Fresh organic veg, slow-reared free-range meat & more... Events throughout the year & ‘pop-up’ Seasonal Suppers Visit: www.sandylanefarm.net for more information Find us in Tiddington (between Thame & Wheatley) OX9 2LA Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

Roa d to t h e f u t u r e

with Alan Candy

Get over it! They give us the hump but bumps are here to stay

Citroën study shows speed bumps now blight more than 14,000 of our roads, stretching across an estimated 2,000 miles of Britain’s streets, according to figures obtained from local authorities. Investment in speed bumps has increased 5% since 2015, with more than 42,000 individual bumps recorded by county and borough councils across the country. Citroën also found there were a further 12,000 traffic calming measures such as speed tables, ramps and width restrictions. Citroën conducted the research as part of its commitment to providing class-leading comfort for its customers. Earlier this year, the manufacturer tackled the pothole crisis afflicting Britain’s roads by paying for 200 holes to be filled across Surrey, one of the worst affected counties. In doing so, Citroën was able to provide road users there a glimpse into what life with a New C5 Aircross SUV or C4 Cactus with Progressive

Jaguar IPACE

Alan Candy Hydraulic Cushion® suspension would be like. The figures were obtained through a Freedom of Information request to more than 400 councils across the UK. Speed bumps were first introduced in the UK in 1983 under The Highways (Road Humps) Regulations but their origins date back to the early 1900s in New Jersey, USA, where they were installed to prevent speeding. Road safety experts claim traffic calming measures such as speed bumps are one of the key reasons why deaths on UK roads – especially for pedestrians, cyclists and children – have fallen by 80% since fatalities peaked in 1941, however much we dislike them. Currently, London Borough councils have the highest percentage of speed bumps per miles of road and account for eight of the top 10.

Plastics thrown into your bin could end up on the front of a Jaguar. Jaguar Land Rover is trialling an innovative recycling process which converts plastic waste into a new premium grade material that could feature on future vehicles. It is estimated the amount of waste plastic will exceed 12 million tonnes per annum globally by 2050. Not all of this plastic can be recycled for use in cars today – especially in vehicle parts that are required to meet tough safety and quality standards. Working in conjunction with chemical company BAS, Jaguar Land Rover is part of a pilot project called ChemCycling that up-cycles domestic waste plastic, otherwise destined for landfill or incinerators, into a new high-quality material. The waste plastic is transformed into pyrolysis oil, using a thermochemical process and is then fed into BASF’s production chain in place of fossil resources. The premium grade plastic produced replicates the high quality and performance of ‘virgin’ plastics and can be tempered and coloured, making it the ideal sustainable solution for designing next-generation dashboards and exterior-surfaces in Jaguars and Land Rovers. Jaguar Land Rover and BASF are currently testing the pilot phase material in a Jaguar I-PACE prototype front-end carrier. Pending the outcome of the tests, Jaguar Land Rover could use domestically derived recycled plastic content throughout its cars without any compromise to quality or safety performance. Outside of London, Norwich City Council topped the league table with traffic calming measures installed on 17% of its roads.

azda has unveiled the MX-5 30th Anniversary Edition at the 2019 Chicago Motor Show. After 30 years and more than one million motors sold, Mazda feels that the MX-5 has grown into more than simply Mazda’s creation. It now belongs to the enthusiasts around the world who have supported the development of the model and helped it become the world’s best-selling two-seater roadster. The 30th Anniversary Edition is exclusively offered in the new Racing Orange body paint, a

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

strikingly vivid colour that marks out this special MX-5. It also features forged aluminium Rays wheels developed exclusively for the MX-5 and a 30th anniversary badge displaying the model’s serial number. Other unique features include orange brake callipers and, for the first time in

Mazda MX-5 through the ages

the UK, Brembo front brakes. Inside, the bespoke feel continues with orange accents on the seats, door trim, dashboard, steering wheel, air vents and gear lever, while Recaro seats and Alcantara trim on the door trim and instrument panel add a sense of exclusivity. The 30th Anniversary Edition also features

Locally there are 21 speed bumps between Ivinghoe and Marsworth – a stretch of country road just two miles long!

Apple Carplay and Android Auto as standard. Just 3,000 cars will be produced globally, and fittingly for one of the world’s biggest MX-5 markets, the UK will receive 550 – 370 convertible and 180 RF. Marked out by its black two-tone roof, the Retractable Fastback RF is £29,895, while the convertible is £28,095. As with all 2.0-litre 2019 Mazda MX-5 models, the 30th Anniversary features the new 184ps version of the Skyactiv-G engine, with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Motoring

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Motoring

o n t h e roa d

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

with Rob Auchterlonie

Making progress Volvo S60

NEW Volvo WITHOUT a diesel engine? How times have changed, and how indeed Volvo has changed. The Scandinavian purveyor of one of the best and most complete range of cars on offer, to those who appreciate a fine bit of motoring architecture, claims the latest all-new S60 is the most dynamic handling Volvo ever made. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not about to disagree with that statement. The UK launch of the car took in a near 300 mile route around some of the best parts of Scotland, Skyfall country to you and me, and mixing urban, rural and very rural. The combination of roads showed that this is indeed a fine-handling, premium, mid-sized saloon, one that can gobble up the miles in a relaxed and refined manner.

Rob Auchterlonie

ON The Road It is the first modern Volvo to be sold without diesel power under the bonnet, and while their oil burners are hardly the most intrusive on offer out there, the change to petrol seems to add an extra level of refinement to the package. The engine in question here is a 2.0 litre four cylinder Drive-E T5 unit, all aluminium and pumping 250hp and 350Nm of torque, connected to an eight speed

Volvo S60 R-Design Edition automatic gearbox. Others to be available later are a 390hp T8 Twin Engine and 405hp T8 Twin Engine, Polestar engineered, petrolelectric, plug-in, hybrid versions. Petrol versions are front wheel drive, the hybrids all wheel drive. The refined ride is accented by the lack of engine noise and

the fact you can hear the wind whistling past the door mirrors as you press on. Even the sometimes uneven roads of the west coast of Scotland did little to unsettle the S60 and its excellent mix of performance and efficiency. Steering has a lightness and

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Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

o n t h e roa d

with Rob Auchterlonie

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2019

a safe distance from the vehicle in front. It’s a stepping stone towards fully autonomous driving, a key innovation area for Volvo. Last year Volvo sold 600,000 cars globally, with 50,319 of those in the UK, and it is the current fastest growing premium brand in the UK, introducing an all new range in just four years. Among its plans for the future are to cap the top speed of its cars to 112mph, to introduce driver monitor cameras in its cars from next year, and for all its cars to incorporate a mobile wifi hotspot. The pace of progress is exemplary.

Volvo S60 R-Design Edition precision that makes manoeuvring a decent sized car easier than you might expect, with all corners easy to locate thanks to front and rear parking sensors. As with all modern Volvos, the spacious and generously equipped cabin is devoid of superfluous buttons and switches, and dominated by the Sensus nine

inch touchscreen, in the middle of the dash, that controls just about everything you might need to alter at any given point. It’s smart with a capital S, and a very comfortable environment to be in. The first S60s in the UK are R-Design Edition models which come with 19 inch diamond cut

alloys, a rear view camera, Harmon Kardon sound system, a heated steering wheel and a raft of Volvo safety features. These include Pilot Assist, where a forward facing camera and radar detects your lane and vehicles in front and keeps the car within its lane, working with the adaptive cruise control to keep at

Volvo S60 R-Design Edition Price: £37,935 (£41,210 as tested) Engine: 2.0 litre, four cylinder, petrol Power: 250hp Torque: 350Nm Transmission: eight speed automatic Top speed: 145mph 0-62mph: 6.5 seconds Economy: 35.3-39.8mpg (WLTP combined) CO2 emissions: 155g/km

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