Vale Life Magazine Sept/Oct 2018 by Charlie Trott

Vale Life FREE MAGAZINE

Your free magazine for Aylesbury, Thame and the surrounding area

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Sept/Oct 2018

Cover image: Cate and George Bennett at Sandy Lane Farm shop Story page 13 www.sandylanefarm.net

Inside:

Zoo man shows his metal

Iron man medal for play centre boss

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store at Barn?

Farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new self storage facility

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

Simply unmissable

Sir Bryn Terfel and Imelda May at Le Manoir Plus our columnists: Naomi, Polly, Amanda, Cathy, Charlotte, Lynnette, Nicola, Sandra, Shaun, Nigel, Rob, Alan and much, much more...

Free local listings for events and businesses

The difference is Bartlett’s Exceptional Elderly Care Set in the heart of Buckinghamshire within extensive grounds and with views of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bartlett’s Residential Care Home is one of the county’s leading providers of care for the elderly. As a long-standing family business, our focus has always been on the happiness and standards of care we provide our residents. Personalised care delivered by talented and compassionate people. Providing our residents choice and reassurance and making them feel at the heart of the home. This is the Bartlett’s difference.

Find out more about life at Bartlett’s, including our recently opened Hambledon Wing online.

peverelcourtcare.co.uk

Drop by and see us. We would be delighted to show you around.

E: info@bartlettscare.co.uk T: 01296 747000 2

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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Eat, Drink & Dine

INVITES YOU TO CHRISTMAS AT THE CROWN Telephone: 01296 670216 E-mail: info@thecrowngranborough.co.uk Web: www.thecrowngranborough.co.uk

Winslow Rd, Granborough, Buckinghamshire, MK18 3NJ

The Crown, Winslow Road, Granborough, Buckinghamshire, MK18 3NP A mile south of Winslow, within 15 minutes of Aylesbury & Buckingham Within 30 minutes of Bicester, Leighton Buzzard and Milton Keynes

A charming village pub, attractively and sympathetically restored and now under new management, offering high quality dining in relaxed and comfortable surroundings, as found at our sister pub The Old Thatched Inn at Adstock

Pub open seven days - Monday: 5pm-10pm, Tuesday-Friday: 12-3pm & 5-11pm, Saturday: 12-11pm, Sunday: 12-8pm Food served: Tuesday-Saturday: 12-2.30pm & 6-9pm, Sunday: 12-5pm

Tel: 01296 670216 Web: www.thecrowngranborough.co.uk Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

How do you protect those who matter most? kiddrapinet.co.uk/myfamilylegacy

Inheritance isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a right but protecting your family is.

Download our 8 STEP GUIDE TO MAKING A WILL Book a free consultation today on 01296 509985 4

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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.

A Tribute To The Blues Brothers! Tuesday, 27th November, from 7pm 5 course meal with entertainment, only ÂŁ29.95 Book today to avoid disappointment! Christmas Party bookings now being taken!! Large or small groups - business/family/friends - call 01844 343111 for details. l

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

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 Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

! R LI for ing 01 DA you n 29 Y B r ow 6 RO 20 33 C 19 66 H 66 UR E

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

THE SCILLY EU URING & R OISLES T OIRELAND P E F OF Ooptional An Easter treat with CMV aboard the intimate Marco O PoloR with an VER 40 YEARS visit to one of Europe’s most fashionable cities, Cork, on the Saturday and 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

2019 brochure out now!

BRAND Early booking discount up to £25pp applies to all telephone reservations made ‘LOVE LUXEMBOURG’ NEW FOR before 31st December, 2018. On-line booking discount applies as usual. local pick-up points BRISTOL • Marco Polo Cruise as stated > RINGASKIDDY (County Cork) for 3 nights full board > ST MARY’S (Isles of Scilly) > CARDIFF This superb early bird getaway weekend, full of• fabulous Afternoon tea and late night snacks fun, marvellous music and divine dining, stays at the ever

SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT BREAK

Whether at home or abroad, who popular, family-run 3* Grand Hotel in pretty Vianden Self-service tea & coffee can resist a little• Festive Spirit?! in the Luxembourg Ardennes. Centrally located in(06.00 this – midnight) *Based on two people sharing a Category 1 Standard Twin Inside Cabin; 4 day travel insurance £25 per person; £250 per person non-refundable atmospheric, medieval town complete with fairytale Cologne • On board entertainment deposit required. castle, the hotel has long been a favourite with Crusader & daytime activities Full payment due 3 months before customers. Your hosts, the Peverelli family, will ensure you of luggage (port • Porterage departure. have a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Highlights include two to cabin) Cruise T&Cs apply. Note: Some ports, passengers willsparkling land evenings of live entertainment, two breakfasts • Port taxes by launch or tender. with local ﬁzz, two included excursions and a drink each Every November the lower

Chatsworth House Christmas Market Nov 16th / 3 days / from £209

2019!

Bruges

Bruges Christmas Market

Nov 26th / 4 days / from £289 floors of night with dinner. Enjoy this fabulous, value for money Chatsworth House are transformed for From the intoxicating scent of warm, fresh getaway break to one of Europe’s ‘secret’ corners! the annual Christmas displays. waffles to the twinkling fairylights reflected 5 DAYS DEPARTING 19TH APRIL 2019 From £599* per person Your weekend break includes entrance in the canals, Bruges is hard to beat for a ENTERTAINMENT to the house and gardens as well as the magical Christmas time break. Enjoy the On Saturday night, resident singer, Lisa, will entertain The perfect way to see the best of Holland from the picturesque Dutch Christmas Market. taste of of the handmade chocolates, a trip waterways. Enjoy all the comforts attractive 3* river cruise take ship, MV with a great mix of popular songs and we have booked a on a horse drawn carriage and soak up Esmeralda, as you admire the ever changing scenery floating by. Visiting the fantastic live band for the Sunday night – old timer Marcell Chatsworth festive ambiance. the dazzling rainbow displays of tulips in the Spring has always been a PRICE Trioen and his Little Red Rooster Band – always a big hit

DUTCH BULBFIELD CRUISE

HELD FOR with their superb repertoire of 60s and 70s favourites.

firm favourite of Crusader but why not try this very special Bulbfields holiday and take to the water for Easter! No overnight sailing.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS range of fabulous Christmas Market Luxembourg City breaks throughout late November and A full day excursion to Luxembourg City, the charming early December. Bath, Manchester, little capital with its UNESCO listed Old Town in an York, Lincoln, Chatsworth and the attractive setting.

DAY 1 Cross the Channel and board Dec 7that/Zaandam 4 days / from £299 DAY 2 Optional visit to Zaanse PRICE INCLUDES The Padstow Christmas Festival Schans (open air museum with Cornwall’s •foodie capital where you can windmills) – cruise to Amsterdam. Return coach transfers from taste the bestlocal of Cornish food plus and drink. DAY 3 Full day included excursion pick-up points through the glorious bulbfields Lots of Christmas cheer, lovely pubs and Channel crossing plus a visit to Keukenhof Gardens. restaurants• –MV what could be better!? Esmeralda Cruise as Re-join the boat in Hoorn (no stated for 3 nights full board included lunch today). (no lunch Day 3) HIGHLIGHTS DAY 4 Full day cruising around • Afternoon tea on 2 days the IJsselmeer and onto Alkmaar.& dinner • Hotel for 3 nights with breakfast • Late night snacks Captain’s Farewell Dinner. • A drink with dinner each night (local beer, wine or soft drink)Dinner DAY Early disembarkation for 30th• /Captain’s 3 days / 5from £239 Nov 4 daysFarewell / from £299 • 2 Sparkling breakfasts with free ﬂow local (set bubbly menu) the journey back home.

Cornish Christmas Cracker

2019availability on our extensive We still have

ever popular Valkenburg, Bruges and

Moselle & Scenic Switzerland CologneRiver to name but aLittle few. Or why not Atreat localyourself guide will you the very best of this toshow the Thursford Christmas picturesque area including Remich, the ‘Pearl of the Spectacular or the Birmingham Tattoo? Moselle’ and scenic Mullerthal, known as There is a great choice of tours over the Little Switzerland of Luxembourg. Christmas and New Year as well!

Birmingham Tattoo & Christmas Market

ACCOMMODATION

Bath Christmas Market

Nov 23rd /

Cologne & Bonn Christmas Markets

GRAND HOTEL DE VIANDEN Britain’s biggest• indoor international TheSaturday city of •Cologne is entertainment anights stunning for On Sunday board Live musical entertainment and The popular, family run 3* Grand Hotel de Vianden Novever 23rd / 3 days / from £229 *Based on two people sharingon a tattoo, with over 1,000 performers, backdrop for Christmas markets 2its nights Lower Cabin; 5 day travel insurance is centrally located in the town and its facilities include • Porterage & welcome drink on arrival returns to Barclaycard Arena in The centre of Bath is transformed into which bring in over two million • Tour of Bulbfields & visitors £36 per person; £100 per person bar, restaurant, lounge and lift. All rooms are en-suite • Two included excursions as stated above Keukenhof entrance Birmingham bringing together marching a magical Christmas paradise, as over every year. With hundreds of stalls non-refundable deposit required with TV. Please note that single rooms are small.

Full payment due 2 months before • Porterage bands, exciting displays and culminating 170 chalets full of gorgeous Christmas lining the streets, it’s easy to see why departure. in the magnificent Grand Finale, a Port taxes goodies line the streets around the it is one of •the most popular Christmas Cruise T&Cs apply. 4 DAYS | FRIDAY 15TH – spectacle MONDAY 18TH and MARCH 2019 From £299 per person of pomp pageantry. Abbey. markets in Europe.

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: Crusader01255 Holidays425 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 2LD 01296 33 66 66 (Aylesbury) 453 (Clacton) www.crusader-holidays.co.uk

Crusader Holidays Crusader Business Park, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4HP Visit us: Crusader Holidays 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 2LD Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018 info@crusader-holidays.co.uk Crusader Holidays Crusader Business Park, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4HP

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Contents 8

Transition time

Two kiss or not to kiss?

Big friendly giants

Starry nights

Blowing in the wind

Thinking of selling your home?

Big steps for small people

It’s that right bulb moment

Zoo man shows his metal

When nature needs a hand

Flip, flop and fly!

Wild cats at eco farm

Flying high on Amazon USA

Anyone for Chess?

Join Buck’s best kept secret

Flying start for festival

Be a winter beauty

Power cut

How not to put it off!

Dose up with disco

Lend me your ears

Simply unmissable

30 Being your own boss

Renaissance retreat

Is it just gobbledygook?

12 14 17 18 19 22 24 26 28

Seasonal style from Lynnette Meet the tortoise collector What makes a weathervane?

Education with Nick Andrews

Iron man medal for play centre boss Don’t flap if your heels go hard Sarah’s coaching book success

How to save cash as a cosmetic model Skin tips will ward off Winter George is our Mr Motivator! Have you been finding it hard to hear? ‘You’re not alone’, says Philippa Batting

What’s in store at barn

Farm launches self storage facility

Pucker up with A Drop of Sherry! “Accept Winter’s embrace,” says Polly Gibbs Try these tips from homestager Charlotte ‘Let’s get planting’, says Naomi MacKay Looking out for your local wildlife

Wildlife Centre welcomes new arrivals Shaun’s guide to local theatre Box office rush breaks TAL records! It’s what the ink said...

Richard’s dancing in Travolta’s shoes Amazing offer for Music at Le Manoir Luxury hotel has spectacular spot Alan attempts to cut through the jargon

Just a wee dram

e are fortunate living in the Vale, to be blessed with many amazing artisan drink producers! Within a few miles you can find numerous breweries, a couple of vineyards, a gin distillery, makers of unusual liqueurs... it’s an impressive list. One thing you don’t get though is Scotch Whisky, partly I guess because the water round here is not peaty enough and partly because there is legislation which states you have to be in Scotland to make Scotch! Happily whilst visiting the

ongratulations to the following Aug/Sept edition competition winners! Hopefully your

excellent Countryfile Live show at Blenheim Palace recently, I came upon a stand manned by a cheerful crew from the Glen Moray distillery at Elgin, capital of Speyside. Glen Moray has been distilled in traditional copper stills for more than 120 years and the company today produces an excellent variety of single malt whiskies to match everyone’s palate and budget. The craft of producing this elegant and well-rounded Single Malt has been passed from generation to generation. The

prizes will have arrived by now, please let us know if not. Commiserations to those who weren’t so lucky - read

Glen Moray gift box ww.glenmoray.com

whisky is matured in ex-bourbon barrels from North America which give it rich and spicy characteristics, resulting in a high quality malt whisky with a smooth and well-rounded taste. Some of the Glen Moray range is available on Amazon and some at Morrisons and Sainsbury’s

on though for more offers and competitions inside this edition, including the chance to win: a Hape VW Camper baby walker; a copy of The

but of particular interest with Christmas on the horizon is that three of the whiskies from their Glen Moray Elgin Collection (the Classic, Peated and Port Cask) are available in stylish gift boxes containing 1 x 70cl bottle and two glasses which would make a lovely Christmas gift. If buying a little pressie for yourself though I would recommend the Glen Moray Elgin Heritage 12 or 15 Year Old which are absolutely gorgeous! Cheers and happy reading!

Charlie Editor, Vale Life Magazine

Oxford Art Book. A £50 voucher for itsu: Last issue’s prizewinners Poppy Bounden, Thame were: A meal for two at A copy of the Soundman Tres Corazones: Bob Caton, book: Peter Stroud, Princes Aylesbury Risborough

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 : Sept/Oct 2018

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...

Transition

ow – what a scorcher of a Summer we’ve been having! But whilst I enjoy Summer – when styling feels more casual and relaxed, I couldn’t love the change of season to Autumn more! Autumn is by far my favourite season. It’s the time to snuggle into those soft welcoming knits and get the boots ready for a walk through the fallen leaves. But dressing for Autumn can be tricky – not least because the weather may be a little unpredictable. So how do we transition our styling from Summer

summer wardrobe, whilst starting to show hints of the season to come.

into Autumn with ease? The key to this is LAYERING, and it happens to be very on trend this coming season. In fact the Autumn ‘18 catwalks took this look to the extreme and employed an abundance of layers – with capes, puffa jackets, blanket throws and waterproofs all together in the mix! Away from the catwalk, layering can be more subtle and accessible. Layering gives you the versatility to add or take away items depending on the temperature. Plus it’s a great way of elongating your

GANT Light Down Jacket £195, Padded Wool overcoat £325, White shirt £85, Fine Merino Turtleneck £95, Slim Jeans £95

How to layer with ease: Mixing textures will give your outfit interest – You could keep the colour palette neutral or 1 colour, but by adding different textures the outfit will have even greater appeal. Think faux fur over a lightweight knit for example (pic left). Use layers to show your colour story – whether that’s to add more colour to your outfit (or colour clash which

Chesca (available at John Lewis) Faux Fur Gillet, Silver Grey, £135 White Stuff Poncho £55

Next Print Shirt Dress, £28

Next Soft Touch Skinny Jeans, £28

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

time

Lipsy (available at Next) Button Cuff Roll Neck Jumper, £26

is a trend from the Spring which has continued into AW’18), or tie the whole outfit together with the use of one colour running through all the layers Lightweight knits are your friend – and so much so, don’t just wear one at a time! You can layer up knits which is a great way to add colours, patterns, and interesting silhouettes, too. One way to do this is with a poncho – and they are a key look this season. (See White Stuff Poncho opposite page). Dresses and trousers combo – this was a key look earlier this year and is continuing into the Autumn. It’s a great way of combining the ease of summer styling with some extra warmth. Try a shirt dress over skinny jeans, and then add a pump or boot (depending on the weather) - eg Next Print Shirt Dress and Soft Touch Skinny Jeans pic opposite page. Roll necks and long sleeve tops – layering under (rather than over) is a great way of feeling snug when the autumn wind catches you, but gives your ‘more summery’ outfits some extra longevity. Think a lightweight roll neck under a shirt dress, or a long sleeve tee under a summer vest

Accessorize Mocha Stretch Pack, £12

are a great way of layering up with ease, and also get a pop of colour near your face – which will not only brighten your complexion, but will also remind you that winter isn’t here just yet! They are also great for adding a bit of pattern to a plain outfit. If you like a bit of a style statement – then animal print is going to be HUGE for AW’18, so why not grab an animal print scarf and kick off the season in style! Layer accessories too – make your layering look more considered by following this through to your jewellery too. Think about wearing 2 necklaces – 1 short and 1

or short sleeve tee. Belts are key – they give your layers (and you!) shape. Even if you don’t have a small waist Accessorize Leopard Print belt, £10 M&Co stud Skinny Belt Three Pack, £10 in comparison to your shoulders and hips, you can create this illusion when wearing layers with a belt for instant hourglass body shape. Use scarves to accessorise. Scarves

AW'18 Styling Sessions available now

long (or a layering necklace which has different lengths built in), or multiple bracelets to create a layered ‘arm party’. I also use the change in season to clear out my wardrobe – check that items correctly fit you, repair any items that didn’t quite make it through the last season in one piece, and organise your wardrobe so that you can see everything you have - that way you go into the new season clutter free, knowing exactly what you have, and excited about the potential outfit combinations of the season ahead. And remember to enjoy the change in season – layer up, and get out in the autumn air, kick those leaves and hunt for conkers. We are lucky to have such amazingly different seasons. l Lynnette Jackson is an awardwinning 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

Dorothy Perkins grey Leopard Animal print scarf, £10

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

Lynnette Jackson image consultant, personal stylist 07971 198 047 lynnette@mycolourandstyle.com www.mycolourandstyle.com

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 : Sept/Oct 2018

#aylesburymela holycowhome.co.uk/festival-of-lights/

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

T h i s fa r m i n g l i f e

by Heather Jan Brunt

The big friendly giants

’ve been visiting Bucks County Show for decades, admiring the Herefords, Simmentals and Charolais; watching the sheep and the hounds. But never before have I encountered tortoises. A pen full of 10 various sized Aldabra Giant Tortoises was a new attraction at this year’s show and certainly proved immensely popular. Every time I walked past the stand there were crowds of people reaching over to stroke them, and children were inside the pen with them. Finally, at the end of the day I managed to speak to the owner, Adrian Graham, about his passion for these placid animals. Adrian had driven down from Lincolnshire the night before the show and slept in a trailer with the 10 tortoises. He told me they were a lifelong hobby that had begun when he was just a child: “I was a little lad,” he said. “Initially I wanted a dog, but I was allergic to them, so I was offered a tortoise or a goldfish and I went down the tortoise route. “They are non-aggressive, there

Adrian Graham with Samson

are no allergies and they have real personalities and different characters.” Adrian said he started with one tortoise, then had two and that eventually grew to five. When he was eight years old he visited Chester Zoo and saw the Aldabra Giant Tortoise. “The seed was sown there,” he revealed, “and the dream began. The dream was right there in front of me. And later in life, when time and resources permitted, it took hold.” Adrian is a builder by profession and says his tortoises are, “an extreme hobby”. Some years ago,

he bought a farm where he keeps sheep, chickens, goats and horses. His tortoises live on seven acres of the farm and during the summer they have access to the outdoors where they graze and eat grass, and in the winter, they are moved indoors to be kept warm in their own purpose built barn and are fed on hay, horse feed and dried grass. His tortoises range in age from teenagers through to thirty somethings and are apparently too young to breed. Breeding begins at forty. They are originally from Mauritius and have all been pre-owned by other people in the UK who have sold them following personal ill health, death or marriage breakdown or couldn’t keep them any longer because the tortoises got too large. Adrian has started taking them to a few shows over the summer months and says they travel very well on rubber horse mats covered with a bed of straw. The 10 he had at Bucks County Show included a very large male called Samson and his girlfriend Bonnie and another

This farming life Heather Jan Brunt

large male Trojan. Adrian said the main reason for taking them to shows was education. He revealed: “It is astounding how many people have queries about diet and husbandry. I’ve spent six hours today talking about domestic tortoises. My tortoises love being touched and handled, they tend to sit by the edge of the enclosure where people can reach over and touch them and interact.” He said his next 30 years are lined up with the ambition to breed and that would complete the cycle of his passionate hobby. Adrian said: “I am looking forward to them having babies because as a breed they have never bred in the UK or Europe.” l Follow Heather Jan Brunt on

Twitter @HJBjournalist

. Eye-catching, different, handmade, Fairtrade, reclaimed, recycled... hand-picked from the four corners of the globe, come and see... . Beautiful items for you and your home - gifts, homeware, clothing, jewellery, furniture, bags, accessories, buddhas, gemstones, crystals, home fragrance and much more... Holy Cow Home 6 Cambridge Street Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP20 1RS 01296 485158 www.holycowhome.co.uk Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

C u r i o u s Wo r l d

by Nicky Gregory

Blowing in the wind

he Greek astronomer Andronicus created the first recorded weather vane around 48 B.C. It was made as a tribute to Triton, son of Poseidon, the messenger of the sea and was placed at the top of the Tower of the Winds in Athens. Built from bronze, the weather vane had the head and torso of a man and the tail of a fish. A wand held in Triton’s hand indicated the wind direction. The weather vane was also independently invented in ancient China in the 2nd century BC. It was believed that the winds had divine powers and in Greece and Rome vanes depicting the gods Boreas, Aeolus, Hermes and Mercury decorated the villas of the wealthy. In the 9th century A.D. Pope Nicholas is said to have decreed that every church in Europe should have a cockerel on its dome or steeple, to remind people of Jesus’ prophecy that Peter would denounce Him three times before

Nicky Gregory

Curious world

Triton weathervane by Andronicus the cock crowed. It is thought this led to the first roosters on vanes or weathercocks. The 11th century Bayeux Tapestry has a scene of a cockerel vane being attached to the spire of Westminster Abbey. The Rooster of Ramperto, made at the beginning of the 9th century, is considered to be the oldest existing weather vane, with an age of almost 1200 years. Vanes do not always have a pointer or arrow as the figure on top points towards the direction of the wind – the beak of the cockerel,

The Rooster of Ramperto

Old Father Time weathervane at Lord’s cricket ground

the point of a spear etc. ‘Vane’ comes from the Old English word fana for flag and is the flat part on either side of the shaft of a feather. Vanes are now mainly used as an architectural ornament and can have any design above letters showing the points of the compass. One of the most bizarre is an actual Douglas DC3 at the Yukon Transportation Museum near the Whitehorse International Airport where pilots use it to determine the wind direction. It only needs a 5 knot wind to rotate.

Mystery object Our Aug/Sept edition mystery object was a boot pull. Can you guess what this one above is? Email your answers along with your name, address and contact telephone number to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Winner to be notified by email. 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

ANTIQUES AT… WENDOVER A Dateline ANTIQUES CENTRE Est. 1987 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.

19thC Windsor Chair and Georgian Oak Tripod Table The Old Post Office, 25 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU Tel: 01296 625335 Email: antiques@antiquesatwendover.co.uk Website: www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk 12

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Hester Clarke Fine Jewellers

Independent Family Jewellers since 1892 Goldsmiths House 10-14 Cambridge Street Aylesbury Bucks HP20 1RS www.hesterclarke.co.uk 01296 482963

Harvest time at Sandy Lane

ou could do your weekly food shop at Sandy Lane Farm - it wouldn’t cost any more than in town and you get the added enjoyment of visiting a delightful rural setting, a friendly welcome and the most delicious selection of amazing organic produce, just bursting with goodness and flavour. Sandy Lane carrots for instance are crisp, succulent and taste so amazing you’ll wonder why you ever ate the bland supermarket brand! Be quick and you may be able to experience corn on the cob, fresh from the field too - rush it home, briefly boil it and be ready for a sensory explosion as the juicy corn bursts with flavour on your tastebuds! “Don’t delay,” says Farmer George Bennett, “the sugars quickly turn to starch and the taste changes after about 12

hours, so most people never find out how fantastic it is field fresh.” Sandy Lane Farm produces a wide variety of vegetables including several types of potato; brassicas such as broccoli, cabbages, kale, cauliflower, radishes, swedes and turnips, onions, garlic, leeks, beans, courgettes, carrots, mushrooms, parsnips, celeriac, beetroot, spinach, chard, salsify, fennel; the most amazing selection of squash (29 varieties this year including Patty Pans, Uchiki Kuri, Spaghetti Squash, Gem Squash and Sweet Dumpling) and pumpkins, plus apples, plums, pork and lamb. They supplement their own produce with high quality ethically, and where possible, locally sourced produce such as organic milk, yoghurt, cream and ice-cream from North Aston Dairy, cheese, coffee (freshly roasted by the local

Stay Warm This Winter! Dry Logs

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- Large Selection Of Fruit & Vegetables - Extensive Freezer Selection- Home Produced Lamb & Beef - Top Brand Pet Foods & Animal Feeds - Chiltern Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil -

P E Mead & Sons Farm Shop Wilstone, Nr Tring, HP23 4NT 01442 828478 www.pemeadandsons.co.uk

Horse Box Coffee Company), fruit, fact in the run up to Christmas you flowers, eggs, honey, bread, jam, can pre-order all your produce for cakes... “Our regular customers the festive season and it’ll be boxed seem to love the field to fork and ready for you to pick up on freshness and flavour,” says Cate. “I Saturday 22nd December. think once you try it you don’t want Sandy Lane host occasional to go back!” events such as ‘pop-up’ The traditional, seasonal suppers (next one family-run farm is Soil Friday, October 12th) and Association registered. the forthcoming Pumpkin It has grown organic Weekend - Sat/Sun 27th vegetables for some & 28th October 10am to 30 years and sells a 3pm - a chance to look selection, fresh from around the farm and learn the fields, in their farm Cate & George Bennett about all the different shop every Thursday varieties of pumpkins from 11am to 6.30pm and on growing and how to cook them. Saturdays from 10am to 2pm. Home delivery veg boxes containing l Sandy Lane Farm, Sandy Lane, Tiddington, Oxfordshire, OX9 2LA Sandy Lane produce are available T: 01844 279269 from www.tenmilemenu.co.uk E: enquiries@sandylanefarm.net They also rear free-range, W: www.sandylanefarm.net traditional breed pigs and lambs Facebook.com/sandylanefarm and supply Christmas turkeys. In

Win VW camper van baby walker!

his classic Volkswagen Camper Van - style walker by Hape is perfect for adventurous toddlers and brave babies! Whether learning to take their first few steps or simply pushing their favourite toys around your child will love this stylish walker and the classic bright red and white colour scheme! Help your child learn to walk by beckoning them to push the car towards you and counting out their baby-steps along the way to aid linguistic development. The walker is easy to assemble and features an adjustable handrail to match your child’s size and development; storage space in the walker for your child’s toys and other objects; sturdy wooden construction; TPE skid proof wheels that will not damage your floors If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning the Hape VW Classical Bus T1 Walker (Red), pictured, simply email your name,

address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk What does VW stand for? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by Oct 20th. l www.hape.com Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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

Nick Andrews

by Nick Andrews

Big steps for small people

our child will have started a new school year in early September and may even have started a new school. With the ‘busyness’ of our own lives we might just miss some vital moments. The child will be acutely aware of all the new elements to their school life; the new teacher, the new rooms, new topics and areas of study and so on. It is quite possible that we will talk with them about these functional and, to us, sensible concerns. We will also want to have our say about how matters in the family might need to change and might listen to our child’s reports – but in the way that we adults so often do with each other. What I mean by this is: Listening to respond but not listening to understand At sensitive times like these it is so important to do the latter when

the cloakroom and the journey to school. Take these issues seriously with your child and you will be doing more to facilitate learning than if you try and ram home times tables to a child who is worried about who will play with her in the playground tomorrow.

it comes to long and convoluted tales of friendship groups, break-time games of football and worries about the minutiae of fashion at school. Show you understand by patiently listening to it all. School is about learning, of course, but we teachers are acutely aware of how difficult learning will be if the school day is shrouded in a fog of fear, doubt and concern about the issues of the playground,

Listen to understand, not just to respond

Handling the teacher If you get this right at the start, it will play huge dividends later on. Teachers, like anyone else, respond best to encouragement and positive reinforcement. See if you can find an opportunity to praise the way the year has begun and report back anything positive your child has mentioned. If you do have concerns you want to bring to the attention of the teacher or Head teacher then put them in question form rather than assertions. You may well have been given only a partial version of events by your child. This is particularly true with

Education Matters the issue of bullying. It is grossly over-used these days, particularly by children. Please remember that bullying is not a single incident; it is repeated and constant and insidious, that is what makes it so destructive. Blaming the teacher or school for an incident that happened on the playground will not serve you well. Ask the question and require the investigation – this will fit with the teacher’s training to ‘triangulate’ – find reliable witnesses that are not directly involved. Enjoy the New School Year, they are precious times that pass all too quickly. l Nick Andrews is a retired

headmaster who now works as an educational consultant and can be contacted on: nickubiq@gmail.com

Open Day Saturday 10 November

10.00am – 12 noon (last tour starts at 11.30am) 1.00pm – 3.00pm ( last tour starts at 2.30pm) Take a guided tour led by current students and meet staff along the way. Hear talks by the Headmaster and the Head of the Junior School . This is a fantastic opportunity to see the school buzzing with energy and at its best.

To book please visit bedmod.co.uk email admissions@bedmod.co.uk or call 01234 332659/690

Be inspired. Charlie Russell, one of the nation’s most promising new actors, believes that the supporting role played by BMS enhanced her performance.

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Bedford Modern School is part of The Harpur Trust

l e a r n i n g l a n g uag e s

by Malika Goodwin

It’s good for the brain! teaching my native language to others as it enriches the mind and opens new horizons and in the case of learning to speak this particular language it is worth considering that more than 220 million people speak French across five continents, so there are a lot of people you will be able to better communicate with and relate to. Secondly, French is often considered as the language of culture and a French lesson can be only improve your multitasking like a cultural journey through the skills but also your memory. worlds of gastronomy, fashion, art Perhaps the most amazing thing and science, where many phrases about learning another language and words will already be is that you will improve familiar from everyday use. and your English at the same Finally, of course, time - a language learner improve your when it comes to travel, will naturally have to English at the many British people focus on the mechanics same time! enjoy visiting Paris, the of language and this helps South of France and the them to understand their own French Alps among other regions language better. and it is clear that the ability to As a French national, I enjoy speak even a little French makes

Malika Goodwin the experience so much more enjoyable. It’s always fun and much appreciated when you are able to speak and understand some of the language of a place you are visiting. Not just to communicate with the locals but to help yourself in understanding road signs and menus or when shopping or seeking directions, or heaven forbid in an emergency! If you would like to find out about local French tuition and language classes please contact me or see my website as below. l Malika Goodwin, French

Tuition in Aylesbury Tel: 01296 337291 Email: info@youspeakfrench.co.uk Web: www.youspeakfrench.co.uk

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

(Hertfordshire dialect)

A) a lean deer not fit to hunt B) a lamb brought up by hand C) one that is finicky about dress; a dandy (of either sex)

2) Loppetin’

(Hertfordshire dialect) A) haunting good tables, the act of a greedy sponger B) shambling along in small forward movements C) beating up batter for pudding

3) Bucks

(Buckinghamshire dialect) A) a game of tiddlywinks B) a staging erected across stream, on piles driven into the riverbed C) the tracks worn by rabbits or rats near their holes

4) Shant

(Berkshire dialect) A) a beer B) to decoy other people’s pigeons C) to beat or thump

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: 1A) a lean deer not fit to hunt 2B) shambling along in small forward movements 3B) a staging erected across stream, on piles driven into the riverbed 4A) a beer

ome people may wonder what the benefits of learning another language can be. There are actually many more benefits than most people realise. As a language tutor, I regularly observe the benefits that students gain whilst learning French. As they memorise the rules of grammar, develop their vocabulary and negotiate meaning, it is undeniably strengthening their mental muscle. The more you practice it, the better you get. And several studies have shown that there are great mental benefits for the brain when people begin their language studies as an adult. In fact only recently, in the first episode of their new BBC2 series ‘Trust Me, I’m a Doctor’, Dr Michael Mosley and his team proved it in only a few weeks with a group of mature volunteers - in learning a language you will not

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

by Cathy Soughton

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Rousham House

Lower Heyford

was fortunate recently to visit Rousham House and Gardens on the edge of the Cotswolds not far west of Bicester. Whilst I spent much of the day delving into the archives in the country house, I also made sure I spent time in the wonderful landscaped gardens for which Rousham is best known. Sited on a terrace above the River Cherwell with lawns sloping down to the river, Rousham House itself is a lovely Jacobean residence originally built in 1635 on earlier foundations for Sir Robert Dormer and it has remained owned by the same family ever since. Remodelling started by the architect William Kent in 1738 transformed the house into something vaguely resembling an Early Tudor palace in free Gothic style, complete with a battlemented parapet and a cupola. Low wings were added on the garden side which have carved niches containing

statues of classical figures including Bacchus and Venus. The house was later enlarged in 1860 with further wings added. Kent made alterations to the interior of the house but some of the original 17th century panelling and staircases remain. Circular holes which were bored in the front door during the English Civil War are also still visible; these were made by Robert Dormer, a Royalist, so he could train muskets on Parliamentary forces if they attacked the house. As his son supported Parliament during the war it must have been a challenging time for the family! Most people visit Rousham though to explore the superb

Rousham House

gardens which were also designed by William Kent for Colonel Robert Dormer-Cottrell, the grandson of the original owner. Kent was not only an architect but a landscape gardener, the two professions being less distinct at the time. Kent is famous as the father of the ‘picturesque’ or English landscape garden. As a landscape gardener he envisioned the landscape as a classical painting and consequently revolutionised the layout of estates of which Rousham is probably his best known, especially as it has remained largely unaltered since then. He created a series of classical set-pieces recalling the glories and atmosphere of ancient Rome with various ponds and cascades

and wooded glades which open to provide views of temples, grottoes, and Palladian bridges and on the skyline a sham ruin known as the ‘eye-catcher’. Statues include a horse being savaged by a lion and gladiators in their death throes. Nearer the house and overlooked by Rousham church there is an attractive walled garden with herbaceous plants and a formal parterre. Close also to the main house is a pigeon house dated 1685 which still has its revolving ladder and plenty of pigeons! Rousham is completely unspoilt and uncommercialised with no tea room or shop, so bring a picnic, (there are loos) and it is open every day of the year. It is one just for grown-ups though as no children under 15 (or dogs) are allowed. It is also possible for groups to visit the house by prior arrangement. See: www.rousham.org for more details. l Cathy Soughton is a professional genealogist and architectural historian providing local family history and house history research. W: www.bucksresearch.co.uk, E: soughton@btopenworld.com, T: 01296 624845

A personal approach to caring for your loved one A lovely home in beautiful grounds offering the very best in nursing and residential care. Please give us a call on 0808 1691375 or call in to see us at Bledlow Road, Saunderton Princes Risborough Buckinghamshire HP27 9NG www.chilterncare.co.uk

16 : Sept/Oct 2018 e5453Vale VibeLife Chiltern Care Services ad 125x190mm (2).indd

07/06/2018 16:43

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Zoo man shows his metal Attempting an Iron Man challenge is definitely not child’s play, but fitness fan Rob Scott, who runs Zoomania, Aylesbury’s largest indoor play centre, seems to have taken it all in his stride...

ob Scott took over the running of Zoomania in 2010 and it’s come on in leaps and bounds since then. It now boasts three impressive, multitier play frames, a sensory room, a dedicated under-3s section, two climbing walls, football and basketball courts, a bouldering zone, two ball pits and four slides! The popular centre needs constant cleaning and maintenance and in June the whole place was closed for a week while it underwent a mini refurb and deep clean. “We took the opportunity to make some additions to the playframe as well,” says Rob, “which people really like, especially the ball shower.” Rob is an energetic Lancastrian from Ormskirk who enjoys cycling and running and has completed several triathlons and a couple of marathons over the last few years. His biggest challenge to date though was entering the French Iron Man event at Vichy in Southern France at the end of August where he and other athletes had to swim 3,800m in the beautiful Lake Allier, bike 186km through the local countryside and then run 42km around the shores of the lake and through the historic town of Vichy, where hundreds of spectators lined the course and cheered them to the finish! Rob did it in a respectable 12 house and 38 minutes, coming about 867th out of some 1526 competitors.

Milo gets caught under the ball shower!

Half way round and Rob’s cruising on his bicycle Back home at Zoomania with Milo and Zilo

Rob crosses the Iron Man finishing line! “Last year we started a fundraising campaign for a really important local charity - Young Carers Bucks,” says Rob, “With the help of Beth from the charity we’ve hosted monthly cake sales, done face painting, held a raffle, at a special Zoomania Young Carers event attended by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor and even have my kids Roxy and Zac making lavendar bags, which are on sale here. We’ve raised more than £3,000 so far and want to keep going. My Iron Man entry was part of the campaign, so if anyone can help us on our way to reaching our £10,000 target by making a donation, please go to our justgiving page at: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/zoomania-fundraising”.

Lots of padded play areas await!

Last year Zoomania hosted a special Young Carers session with food and drink: “It was a great success,” says Rob, “and so nice to see the youngsters let off steam and get away from the pressures of home life for a while. The Young Carers charity supports the youngsters and can help give them some respite too and a chance to be kids again.” Zoomania is off Gatehouse Way. In addition to the play equipment there’s plenty of comfy sofas and café-style seating areas for mums and dads to relax in, plus magazines and newspapers to read and free WIFI. Zoomania also has party rooms - parties last for two hours, during which time the youngsters can play on the frame and then go up to their party room and have some food. The centre also has events, (such as their Halloween Extravaganza on October 26th and 27th) deals and offers running, so it’s worth asking or checking out their website or Facebook page. l Zoomania, 3 Kempson Close, Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8UQ T: 01296 481333. E: info@zoomania.co.uk W: www.zoomania.co.uk Facebook.com/ZoomaniaAL Open 7 days, 9.30am-6pm Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

B e au t y s p ot

by Amanda Trott

Flip, flop and fly! Apparently each of us walks around 115,000 miles in a lifetime - about four time round the World - and that’s without a daily step challenge! So it makes sense to look after our feet and although we can do a fair bit of that ourselves, having a Amanda Trott Beauty Spot foot professional check them over every now and then is a really good idea...

eing on my feet all day, I take great care of my tootsies with regular pedicures but even so, tend to suffer with hard skin and cracked heels during the summer months, which is unsightly and uncomfortable. Looking for some professional help, I went along to visit Foot Health Practitioner Antonia Barnes at her treatment room in Thame. Antonia has many strings to her bow. In 2003 she qualified as a Massage Therapist, offering holistic massage, deep tissue massage, Indian head massage; and massage in pregnancy and baby massage classes. She then went on to qualify as a Reflexologist and in 2015, qualified as a Foot Health Practitioner. Antonia explained to me that Foot Health Practitioners can attend to all of the common conditions that affect the feet, from routine care of nails, cracked heels, treatment of verrucae, corns and callus, right through to functional problems of the leg and foot. They are also trained to recognise foot and leg conditions, treat appropriately and refer when necessary. Antonia told me that over the summer months, she sees many clients with cracked heels and very dry skin: “Wearing flipflops is something we all like to do when the weather is hot,” she says, “but the constant bashing of the shoe, as it flip flops against the sole of your foot, can create a build up of hard skin. We tend to over file too, to keep our feet smooth and that in turn can create dry skin.” Antonia has clients of all ages who see her for a variety of foot issues. In particular older clients, who may be unable to reach their feet or see them clearly, so find maintenance care such as cutting nails and callus removal difficult to manage by themselves. She explained that people with Diabetes in particular, need to keep an eye on their feet, as Diabetes can reduce the blood supply and cause a loss of feeling known as peripheral neuropathy. Being unable to feel cuts, sores, ingrowing toenails and other problems can lead to infection if they are unnoticed and thus left untreated. 18

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Filing off dry skin and smoothing with a file

Silky smooth feet!

Scraping off dead skin with a scalpel

Scraping off dead skin with a scalpel Antonia starts each treatment by examining the feet to check for any fungal infections between the toes or on the nails and then checks for temperature and the pulses to rule Amanda and Antonia out any circulatary problems. In her older clients she also examines the lower legs for any signs of sores or skin complaints and will refer them to their GP if there is anything she is concerned about. After trimming and filing my toe nails, she used a scalpel to carefully remove the thicker hard skin from my heels and balls of my feet. Although it sounds frightening, it was completely pain free and I felt at ease in Antonia’s skilled hands. Next came the foot file to gently smooth away any rough areas that still needed a little attention. Using a foot file more than a couple of times a week though is not recommended as it can in turn, produce more hard skin.

Finally came the bit I had been waiting for, the massage. Antonia stresses that you can’t over moisturise the feet and to invest in a cream that contains urea as it is a humectant and helps to increase the skin’s barrier. After half an hour of scraping, filing and massaging my feet looked and felt utterly amazing! Gone were the grey cracked heels and rough skin and in their place were feet softer than silk! Antonia suggested I came back to see her in two to three months but in the meantime, gently file my feet a couple of times a week after showering or bathing and then apply a generous amount of cream. I climbed off the couch and literally felt as though I was walking on air, aaaahhhhh... l Antonia Barnes MCFHP MAFHP, fully qualified and insured foot health practitioner and massage therapist. Feet 4 Life, Thame, Oxfordshire

T: 01844 261766 / M: 07795 692464 E: antoniabarnes321@gmail.com W: www.feetforlifethame.com l To contact Amanda please email:

editor@vale-life.co.uk

Life bites

by Sarah Virág

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Flying High on Amazon USA!

hame based Confidence Coach, Author and Vale Life Magazine columnist, Sarah Virág, is flying high after hitting Amazon USA #1 Bestseller success with her debut book; Wings for Life: Your Pathway To Freedom After Emotional Upheaval. So what’s it like to top the charts at Amazon?! “It still feels slightly surreal to be honest,” says Sarah. “and very humbling to have the spotlight turned on my little guidebook, by the mighty Amazon!” UK born and bred, Sarah is now married with three children. Her childhood was split between Guyana, South America – where her father was Senior Government Entomologist - various Caribbean islands and Leicestershire. She gained a languages degree in French and Spanish and enjoyed a successful and ‘exhilarating’ career in Global Event Management. “I’m the eternal Nomad – somehow destined to be in perpetual motion,” says Sarah, who last year returned to the UK with her family, to live in Thame, following fifteen years abroad;

twelve in Cape Town, South Africa, and three in central Europe. “Wings for Life is based on my own decade of extreme emotional upheaval many years ago,” she says. “This challenging period was the driving force for my eventual coaching and writing careers, because I was absolutely determined to support and inspire others with my story; especially women. It became a real passion to share what I had learned, and to help others with my simple insights and practical advice.

It’s not a biography - the introduction gives a condensed version of the decade during which my life unravelled and the book then progresses to seven, concise and uplifting coaching chapters; outlining the simple steps I took to re-emerge into living a positive, fulfilled life again. The insights are based on my own experiences and also those of wonderful coaching clients I’ve had the pleasure of supporting over the years. “For those struggling with upheaval of their own at the moment, I say: ‘first look inwards’. Start rebuilding crucial reserves of self confidence, self love and self esteem. Learn to focus on your own needs. Don’t ignore the warning bells and bury your head in the sand. Instead, keep telling yourself that you have everything inside you – right now – that it takes to move on and rebuild a happy, fulfilled life. Because when we dig deep, and learn to believe in our own inner strengths, we can accomplish just about anything. I truly believe it. “Also, finding the right support and advice during this time can

make a huge difference to how quickly you’re able to re-emerge. Who do you know who can offer genuine support and guidance?” Sarah aims to publish further books which will expand on each of the coaching chapters in Wings for Life. “My goal is to help as many people as possible to push through their own challenging times – and to find their own wings for life,” says Sarah. “I’ve had a wonderful swell of interest from my followers, local friends and supporters, for which I feel genuinely humbled, and most grateful. Returning to the UK and finding success with my book has been a dream come true. My motto is ‘when you believe in yourself – anything is possible!” l Wings for Life: Your Pathway To

Freedom After Emotional Upheaval is currently available in both e-book and paperback format from Amazon UK: www.amazon.co.uk/ dp/1720076804 or direct from Sarah: www.sarah-virag.com Email: sarah@sarah-virag.com FB: /SarahViragConfidenceCoach

Louise Coates Independent Hair Stylist 079121 20025 / 01296 433233

For all your beauty needs Unit 5, Layby Farm, Stoke Mandeville Buckinghamshire HP22 5XJ 07771 330366 laura.gilbey@hiddenbeautyaylesbury.co.uk www.hiddenbeautyaylesbury.co.uk

I am an Independent Senior Stylist with 10 years salon experience City and Guilds trained to level 3 catering for all aspects of hair dressing.

Creative Cutting - Colouring - Styling - Perming I am fully insured and based at First Impressions, 18 Bourbon Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 2RR I look forward to welcoming clients old and new.

Charlotte Mobile Hairdresser Professional Hairdressing for

Everyone All in the comfort of your own home

Over 12 years of salon experience Tel: 07479 939461 www.mobilehairdesign.com charlotte@mobilehairdesign.com • modern cutting techniques • colours (all types) • • colour correction • blow dry • curls & waves • • perms • sets • hair extensions • special occasions •

Enjoy having your hair styled and treated in a relaxed, vibrant and modern salon specialising in colour work, re-styles, hair-ups and special occasions. 01296 338 344 info@safyb.uk www.safyb.uk

SAFY B’s

Unit 5, Duck Farm Court Station Way, Aylesbury, HP20 2SQ Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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 20

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Health & Fitness

fitness focus

with Gudrun Schneider

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Restoring the balance

hiatsu? Isn’t that a Japanese dog? Ah, no. Actually it is a physical therapy that supports and strengthens the body’s natural ability to heal and balance itself. It works on the whole person - not just with the physical body, but also with the psychological, emotional and spiritual aspects. Shiatsu originated in Japan from traditional massage techniques, with influences from more recent Western therapies. Although shiatsu means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese, I use touch, comfortable pressure and manipulative techniques to adjust the body’s physical structure and balance its energy flow. Traditional Thai Yoga massage, is unlike any “conventional” massage. Sometimes also called “lazy yoga”, it has its roots in India with links to yoga and the Buddhist tradition. Is Thai Yoga massage only for flexible people? No, even though you may

think you are not a “bendy” person – the (yoga like) stretches are applied gently with your physical limitations in mind. Just imagine, you are getting a yoga like workout but without having to do the work! In a Thai Yoga massage session I also work on the whole body, using hands, elbows, knees and sometimes feet to combine ancient therapies and move your body into yoga like positions to eliminate tension,

increase flexibility and create deep relaxation. A treatment feels like a nurturing flow of gentle yoga but you might also feel like you have had the best stretch for a long time! Either treatment will begin with a chat and an evaluation of a client’s health and lifestyle to assess and determine the most effective therapeutic session. Then each treatment will be tailored according to individual needs. If required I can also recommend simple exercises and stretches and will advise on lifestyle changes (e.g. mindfulness techniques, meditation, nutrition). Shiatsu and Thai Yoga massage are non-invasive therapies carried out fully clothed, without the use of oil, usually on a mat on the floor. Whether someone is looking for a relaxing or more invigorating treatment or maybe a bit of both, Shiatsu and Thai Yoga massage are rewarding, deeply relaxing and

Gudrun Schneider A Touch of Wellbeing

therapeutic experiences and regular treatments can alleviate stress, relieve muscular tension, promote balance and maintain health and well-being. Shiatsu treatments normally last approx. 1 hour and Thai Yoga massage is offered as either 1.5 hrs or 2 hour treatments. l Gudrun Schneider (A Touch of

Wellbeing) has diplomas in Shiatsu and Thai Yoga Massage and is based in Fairford Leys, Aylesbury. Tel 07912 758575 W: www.atouchofwellbeing.com Facebook.com\aylesburyshiatsu

Do your dentures need fixing or replacing?

Our clinical dental technician, Roy, is a master craftsman who creates the ultimate in aesthetics for removable dentures. The ‘True to Life’ technique incorporates tissue colour mapping using digital photography and individual tooth and gum characterisation. l

Onsite dental implant lab - fast and reliable service

Easy parking onsite

Call Oakview Dental directly on: 01494 569466 to arrange an appointment

T: 01494 569466

Oakview Dental, Units 1 & 2 Ministry Wharf, Wycombe Road, Saunderton, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4HW

www.oakview-dental.co.uk

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Health & Beauty Advertising feature

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Join Buckinghamshir Would you like access to high quality, non-surgical aesthetic treatments such as fillers, peels and anti-wrinkle injections, for a fraction of the usual cost? Then you might like to know that one of the UK’s top aesthetic training companies is locally based and looking for models...

osmetic Courses has been providing award-winning aesthetic training for medical professionals such as doctors, dentists and nurses, in a wide range of non-surgical cosmetic treatments, since 2002, spearheaded by renowned plastic surgeon Mr Adrian Richards (right). We are dedicated to making the aesthetic industry a safer place by leading an example in our training. In order for our delegates to learn the practical aspects of the treatments, we require cosmetic models that are happy to have the treatments administrated in a training environment, for a significantly lower price than high street clinics. The treatments are carried out by our delegates under the watchful eye and supervision of our fully qualified, highly skilled and experienced aesthetic trainers. Cosmetic Courses lives by the ethos, experience, quality and success, which runs through the heart of our teaching and reflects on to our models’ journeys with us, from consultation to aftercare.

Before Lip Fillers Advertising feature

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Mr Adrian Richards

After Lip Fillers

Our passion for the exciting world of aesthetics has created an extensive community of like-minded individuals receiving nonsurgical treatments with us. The benefits of being a Cosmetic Courses model • Ability to have non-surgical treatments at a largely discounted price - treatments start from £70 • All treatments are carried out in our state of the art training clinics within a friendly and safe environment. We have five locations: Birmingham, Nottingham, Leeds, London and our national training centre in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire • Bespoke treatment plans and consultations from our expert trainers • No compromise on quality of treatment we are proud to use genuine Allergan Botox® and Juvederm dermal filler • Every question answered - we understand you are making a big decision that’s why we leave no stone unturned when it comes to answering your questions

Advertising feature Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

re’s best kept secret Treatments available • Anti-wrinkle Injections • Dermal Fillers • Injectable Skincare • PDO Threads • Tear Trough Rejuvenation • Leg Thread Vein Removal • Dermaroller • Chemical Peel • Non-Surgical Facelift • Non-Surgical Nose Job • Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy • Hyperhidrosis Our models love coming to us and provide us with fantastic positive feedback about our service, the treatments they receive and our supportive community. “I was very nervous as this is the first time I have had any treatments like this. But the staff were very friendly and reassuring, putting me completely at ease. Every query I put to them was answered thoroughly and kindly. The treatment was done gently and compassionately, and everything was explained every step of the way. I can see an improvement immediately. I would highly recommend coming here. Thank you to all the staff for your kindness.” “I would highly recommend going here for treatments. I was treated with kindness and

gentleness. The delegate who did my treatment was very professional and well supervised by the trainer throughout the whole experience. I walked out feeling so much more confident in myself and looking forward to going again. If you would like treatment and want it at an affordable price being a model is an excellent option as you get treated just the same as paying full price”

Our Model Satisfaction Results • How would you rate the care you received from your trainer? 9.3/10 • How would you rate the results of the treatment/s you’ve had with us? 8.5/10 • How you would rate the quality of your customer service experience? 9.1/10 • 82% of our models return for more than 1 treatment • 78% of our models refer us to a friend Interested? If you are interested in becoming a model we would love to hear from you. Please contact our dedicated support team: ask@cosmeticcourses.co.uk or call: 01844 390110. You can also visit our website: www.cosmeticcourses.co.uk to learn more about being a model with us.

Before Non-Surgical Facelift

After Non-Surgical Facelift

l Cosmetic Courses, Summerleys Road, Unit E3 Regent Park, Princes Estate, Princes Risborough, HP27 9LE W: www.cosmeticcourses.co.uk

Advertising feature Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Health & Beauty

S k i n FO C U s

with Claire Twigge-Molecey, founder Ermana Natural Skincare

Be a Winter beauty

ave you ever wondered if your beauty routine should change with the seasons? We change the colours we wear and the foods we cook, based on the seasons and our skincare routine shouldn’t be any different. Harsh winter temperatures and the constant change from outside elements to indoor heating can leave our skin feeling dull and dry. It is therefore important to keep our body’s largest organ healthy and hydrated throughout the cold months. Here are some essential skincare tips, not just for the health of our face, but for our whole body.

Start the day with a glass of water - Moisturising from the inside out is an especially important part of your beauty routine for Winter. Starting the day with a tall glass of lukewarm water will not only hydrate but also flush out toxins and give you an energy boost.

Wake up with exercise and an ‘instant facial’ rather than a coffee - A natural way to get the blood moving in the morning is with gentle exercise, like yoga or a short walk. Combine it with splashing your face with cold water and you’ll instantly feel awake and energised – not to mention getting brighter, tighter skin. Coffee is a diuretic so relying on it for energy can dehydrate and age skin. Switch to a gentle cleanser - Soaps and many cleansers will dry your skin out so switch to a natural face cleanser, preferably an oil based one, which won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. You also want to avoid products with artificial fragrances, as those can irritate and dry the skin. Continue to exfoliate - A good scrub can do wonders for increasing the penetration of moisturisers. Exfoliators help to remove the outer dry skin cells and help speed up the

skin’s regeneration. However if your skin is very dry, then exfoliate less than you would normally, because your skin barrier is going to be a little bit compromised because of the dryness and the cold air. Use a richer moisturiser - It might seem obvious, but moisturising your skin is crucial for keeping it hydrated throughout the winter. Face and body oils work particularly well at keeping the skin hydrated as they protect the skin by building a barrier against outside influences such as harsh weather and extreme temperatures. Oils are able to penetrate deeper into the lower levels of the epidermis. Don’t forget to protect - The sun still shines in Winter. So always apply a natural sunscreen after moisturising to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Eat beauty foods for breakfast - Pick a healthy breakfast that

Claire Twigge-Molecey Ermana Skincare

delivers a dose of winter beauty foods. Oatmeal based breakfasts like granola and porridge are good for the skin as oatmeal is high in beta-glucans which support skin health. Beta-glucan possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help combat the effects of ageing on skin, like wrinkles and dryness. Avocados are also great for the skin as they are full of vitamins A, E and B and biotin. They are a good source of zinc, which cleanses and detoxifies your body and they help your skin stay hydrated. l For info on Ermana Skincare

products see: www.ermana.co.uk Facebook.com/Ermanaskincare or email: hello@ermana.co.uk Inst/Twit: @ermanaskincare

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Health & Beauty

f o ot f o c u s

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

with Jenney Klose of Feet First,Thame

What is plantar fasciitis?

lantar fasciitis means inflammation of your plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that stretches from your heel to your middle foot bones, supports the arch of your foot and acts as a shock absorber within your foot. It is quite common - around 1 in 10 people will get plantar fasciitis at some time in their life. It is most common in people between the ages of 40 to 60 years. However, it can occur at any age. It is twice as common in women as men. It is also common in athletes.

Heel bone Pain Plantar fascia

What are the symptoms? The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain which is worse first thing in the morning when you put your foot on the floor or when you stand up after sitting. The pain usually lessens with walking initially but can then worsen again if you are on your feet for long periods.

What causes Plantar fasciitis? It is caused by repeated microtrauma to the plantar fascia: • If you are on your feet for a lot of the time • Excessive exercise • Exercising on a different Treatment PHILLIPA_AW18_056 surface than you are used to. Treatment varies depending on • Poor foot position the cause but includes:• Worn shoes or badly fitting shoes. • Rest • Icing • Exercise • Overweight • Massage • Orthoses • Tight calf muscles • Anti-inflammatories

Jenney Klose Podiatrist

ESWT treatment If these don’t resolve the problem, then at Feet First, we offer a very effective, evidence-based treatment called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT, which is also good for Achilles Tendinopathy - a condition suffered by those involved in running sports. The shockwaves or high-energy sound waves are introduced into the painful areas and accelerate the healing process by activating the body’s own self-healing powers. PHOEBE_AW18_059 They stimulate the metabolism and enhance the blood circulation. Damaged tissue gradually regenerates and eventually heals. Usually, three to five treatments at

weekly intervals are sufficient. Our website has more information. Patients have said: ‘The improvement has been quite spectacular... being little short of miraculous in my view’, ‘I have been totally free of pain for over 2 years with no reoccurrence at all, a brilliant result’. l Feet First, 13a Upper High

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

Autumn/Winter `18 range now in store!

PHILLIPA_AW18_056

‘Excellence for all your foot care needs’

We stock an exciting range of DB Wider Fit Shoes for men and women - a stylish combination of elegance and comfort. DB Shoes won the Footwear Industry Awards Comfort/Wellness Footwear Brand of the Year title RICHMOND_AW18_062last year, recognising their creativity, RICHMOND_BLACK_AW18_005 innovation and quality. VIOLET_AW18_059 The new Autumn/Winter 2018 range is here now, offering elegance and comfort for men and women. Our ladies collection offers footwear that will pamper your feet all day long, but allow you to step out in style. Having wide feet needn’t mean you have to sacrifice elegance or quality. DB footwear PHILLIPA_AW18_056 PHOEBE_AW18_059 incorporates the comfort of a wide fitting shoe RICHMOND_AW18_062 and a deeper toe box, with a pretty and graceful silhouette. Our men’s range combines comfort, value and craftsmanship. Shoe shop open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Mon/ Tue/Wed & Fri, when our trained shoe fitter will be available for a drop-in service (closed 1-2pm).

SANDBACH_AW18_013

SHARON_AW18_013

ZOE_EALING_AW18_148

COMPTON_AW18_036 BEVERLY_AW18_069 Feet First, 13a Upper High Street, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3ER Tel: 01844 261023 Email: enquiries@feet-first.org www.feet-first.org

COMP

Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2018

Health & Fitness

mindset focus

with George Anderson

How not to put it off! “

know what to do but I just don’t do it!” Have you ever found yourself saying this in relation to your health and fitness? You know what you should be doing, but for some reason are unable to put it all into practice. It’s frustrating when you set yourself an exciting new goal, but then struggle to build enough new habits to make a significant difference. At a new seminar in Thame on Thursday September 27th, mindset and performance coach George Anderson will be tackling this problem head on. As well as teaching strategies to overcome self-sabotage and make more consistent progress towards your goals, he will be sharing some of his insights into overcoming procrastination. Here are some of his top tips for combatting the most common reasons for procrastination and

some urgency by sharing your goals and the commitments you’re prepared to make, with somebody you trust. Ask them to check in with you each week to ask how you’re getting on.

George’s Seminar is at The Spread Eagle, Thame on Thursday, September 27th taking more action: 1) Get Clarity The number one reason for procrastination is a lack of clarity. We decide that we want to get healthy or lose weight, but these aren’t things we can actually do. Get clear on the specific actions you can take, for example drinking a glass of water when you wake up, or walking for 30 minutes at lunchtime. 2) Make it important Without a deadline, important things can feel less urgent and so we delay starting them. Create

3) Make it enjoyable Sometimes we avoid doing things that we know are good for us because we just don’t want to do them! Let’s face it, when something is unpleasant it can be hard to motivate yourself to do it. You can’t get a result that you love by doing something that you hate, so try to find an alternative solution. For example, if you hate running, trying to make yourself go for a run at 6am probably isn’t going to be an effective long term strategy. But you may find that you love Zumba or swimming or badminton instead. The ‘Knowing To Doing’ seminar with George Anderson is at the Spread Eagle Hotel in Thame,

George Anderson Performance Coach

from 7pm to 9pm on Thursday, September 27th. Tickets are available from the website www. bygeorgeanderson.com/mindsetseminar for £35. l George Anderson has helped

thousands of people as a personal trainer, boot camp instructor, mindset & performance coach and motivational speaker for more than 16 years. The philosophies that he shares in his seminars have helped him personally achieve numerous endurance successes, such as running two 100 mile ultra marathons, an ironman triathlon and 10 consecutive marathons around Thame!

Award-winning Family Run Hearing Consultancy Estd in 1989

Need advice in an informal setting? Why not join us at one of our free monthly Hear Today coffee mornings?

1st Friday of each month 10am-12pm Flint Barn Court, Church street, Old Amersham HP7 0DB

1st Tuesday of each month 10am-12pm Cobbles Yard, 112 High Street, Thame, OX9 3DZ

ALL WELCOME 26

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

“We are your local independent hearing consultancy, working in the area for nearly 30 years - we can help with all things related to ears and hearing. Don’t suffer in silence, book in for a personal appointment. Call or email for more details or join us at one of our Hear Today events” Duncan & Kate Collet-Fenson Directors of Aston Hearing

The Happy Hearing Van will be at World’s End Garden Centre, Wendover the last Friday of every month between the hours of 10:00am and 4:30pm. Come along and talk to our audiologists, we also have our van equipped with specialised equipment to check the health of your ears. All for FREE.

www.astonhearing.co.uk hear@astonhearing.co.uk

OUR SERVICES Available in Amersham & Thame Hearing & Communication Assessments Very Latest Hearing Technology Full Hearing Aid Repair Service Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction) Children’s Hearing Screening Service Ear Protection Tinnitus Advice & Support

Amersham Flint Barn Court Church Street Old Amersham Buckinghamshire HP7 0DB Champneys Health & Wellbeing Centre Champneys Tring Chesham Road Wigginton Hertfordshire HP23 6HX 01494 733840 Thame Cobbles Yard 112 High Street Thame Oxfordshire OX9 3DZ 01844 396057

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

www.thametherapyclinic.co.uk

Suffering with Anxiety, Feeling Sad & Unhappy, Relationship problems Caring, empathetic & confidential ? help is available. Hypnotherapy can & has helped many many people with these types of issues. FREE initial consultation

Angie Elbourn Reg Hyp. MNRAH. CNHC (CNHC are the only registering body for Hypnotherapy that is recognised by the Dept of Health)

www.hypnohelp.co (just co no uk) 077756 77796

Angie.hypnohelp@hotmail.co.uk

Maria Bray

Nutritional Therapy

The Science of Health and Vitality

ANTONIA BARNES MCFHP MAFHP FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER

II CAN CAN TREAT TREATCorns, Corns,calluses, calluses,cracked crackedheels, heels, nail problems, thickened nails and can treat nail problems, thickened nails and can treat people who have diabetes. people who have diabetes. II CAN CAN OFFER OFFERVisits Visitsininthe thecomfort comfort of of your your own home, a warm attitude, generalroom, foot care own home or atcaring my Thame treatment including regular nail cutting and filing and a a warm caring attitude, general foot care foot massage at the of your including regular nailend cutting and treatment. filing and a foot massage at the end of your treatment. TO ARRANGE A VISIT OR FOR MORE TO ARRANGE A VISIT OR FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT ANTONIA BARNES INFORMATION CONTACT ANTONIA BARNES 01844 261766 or 07795 01844 261766 or 07795 692464 692464 www.feetforlifethame.com www.feetforlifethame.com

Helping to keep your feet in a healthy condition Based in Thame, I am also a fully qualified massage therapist offering holistic massage and reflexology REGISTERED MEMBER OF THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONERS

Fancy taking on a challenge in May / June 2019 Need a reason to get yourself off the couch !

Eat Well l Live Well l Feel Well

New Saturday morning Teen Clinic: £30 for 1 hour session Take charge of your health - I can assist you to achieve your desired health improvements with a mutually agreed and appropriate stepped programme of dietary and lifestyle changes. Diagnostic testing for: l Food intolerances / poor digestion l Vitamin D skin prick - overall health; bones, depression; skin; immunity l Homocysteine testing - heart health; brain health

Call for free half hour consultation

Tel: Maria on 0771 5414719 / 01296 581561

www.mariabraynutritionaltherapy.com

Programme

Racquets is offering a Couch to Challenge Programme in conjunction with our Group PT membership and PT trainer arrangements

The challenge : Scale Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, at an elevation of 978 metres above sea level and located in the stunning Lake District National Park, in Cumbria. The route will be the scenic route, led by Nig Pattison. The trip will include 2 nights in B&B in the Lakes.

The detail : From September 2018 to May 2019 take on a Group PT membership at £99 per month (with a £50 joining fee) or privately train with one of our PTs weekly. Pay £40 per month towards the challenge. Nothing to pay during the trip.

We can train you from couch, whether currently with an injury or just unfit, to ready for the challenge.

Speak to Simon Martin or Nig Pattison for more information and to find out if your current injury should be stopping you.

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

G o o d h e a lt h

with Sandra Smith

Lend me your ears!

earing loss is intrinsically linked to the aging process. We’re all aware of that, aren’t we? In which case, why is this important sense denied the attention it deserves? Asking people to repeat themselves, frustration when background noise disrupts conversation and struggling to understand dialogue on the TV all point to gradual hearing loss. Yet although many people recognise these signs, hearing tests aren’t given the same priority as sight checks. Or regular trips to the dentist. Whatever the reason for this stigma Audiologist, Matthew Ball, stresses the diverse effects of what will, inevitably, impinge on us all. “If you are unable to hear well, your everyday life and social wellbeing becomes affected and you can find yourself vulnerable and isolated in many situations.” Hearing, Matthew reckons, and the connection it provides to the

outside world, is arguably our most important sense. And it’s never too early to book a test. “People can be affected by a loss of hearing at any stage of life though it is most commonly recognised in later years because hearing gradually deteriorates with age. Having a hearing test is often seen as unnecessary and it is only when something is wrong that people think about getting advice and support. At Aston Hearing we encourage everyone to take their hearing seriously and to consider

having regular ear checks and tests.” A consultation, Matthew explains, includes examination of ear health and a check of middle ear function. Tests determine your level of hearing, while the information gained helps to find the cause of hearing loss and subsequent management of the condition. For instance, microsuction removes excess wax although any sudden change in hearing, either in one or both ears, demands a trip to your GP or a 111 call. The NHS also recommends ear protection when in particularly noisy environments such as concerts, garage workshops, building sites etc. Should hearing aids be necessary, personal lifestyle along with the problem’s nature and severity will determine the best product for you. The important thing is to avoid delays. “There is an argument for

Good Health

Sandra Smith early intervention,” Matthew explains, “which is linked to the ability of the brain to process sound. Adopting hearing aids is often a journey which can involve acclimatisation over a few weeks or even months.” So the next time your book an optician or dental appointment, consider a hearing check, too. You know it makes sense. Matthew Ball can be contacted at Aston Hearing: www.astonhearing.co.uk l Sandra Smith is a freelance

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

Your yoga practice is....

Help for carers of elders in Oxon/Bucks If you’re supporting an elder relative or friend, whether a little or a lot, go to: www.maudandmum.com for useful wellbeing, time and money saving info. Also on Facebook and Twitter @maudandmum

Aylesbury Sports Massage For all your aches, pains and injuries

...Everything www.everythingyogauk.com

Contact Clare Davies Hartwell, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire Tel: 01296 747477 Email: clare@aylesburysportsmassage.co.uk Website: www.aylesburysportsmassage.co.uk 28

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Classes and private sessions kate@everythingyogauk.com 07754 804 730

G o o d to g i v e

by Diane Rutter

Get your message right

“

f I had more time I could have made this shorter!” – a principle attributed to many wise and witty people in the

past. But this sentiment remains true - and never more so than today, with the constant stream of information and instant news available via phones, Twitter, etc – an endless cascade of information and entertainment vying for your attention. The challenge for any business or charity is rising above the ‘white noise’ to get their message heard. If us charities don’t connect with our beneficiaries, they won’t be able to use our services; if we don’t connect with our funders and donors, we won’t be able to function; and if we don’t persuade people that what we are doing is beneficial to the community, we won’t attract volunteers. So how do we get the message right? One of our members of staff

recently spoke to Karen Warner who manages the vital service supporting homeless people in Aylesbury. We were discussing what they needed in the forthcoming months and what lies behind the sudden rise in homelessness in Aylesbury. Karen said that one of her challenges in talking to businesses and donors is how to describe what Aylesbury Homeless Action Group

does in a few words: “The thing is, we do so much but people, particularly those running businesses, have limited time for me to explain all that we do.” “Most people know we help people find shelter and then more permanent homes, but we also put a great deal of energy into preventing people becoming homeless, such as helping them access other support. We have struggled to encapsulate all that we do – so much so that we have just found a volunteer marketing expert to help us create a clear message.” With so many local charities and community groups seeking support from local businesses, it is easy to understand the need to establish a simple message which is easy to understand. As Dan Jubb from The Graphic Design House identified, the market place for donations from individuals and organisations is increasingly competitive: “If you want to drive

Diane Rutter

Good to give donations to your charity in this environment, you need to start by getting your messaging right. The right message, artfully delivered, can be crucial in winning new support and ensuring the loyalty and generosity of your existing supporters.” It takes time and effort to develop succinct copy which captures the essence of an organisation but, when vying for the attention of local businesses with set times and budgets, it may be time well spent. l Diane Rutter is acting CEO of

Community Impact Bucks: Tel: 0300 1111 250 www.communityimpactbucks.org.uk

Experts in Mobility and Healthcare Supplies Come and visit our new showroom at Watermead, Aylesbury or, if you can’t get to us - give us a call and we’ll visit you! Specialists in ‘tilt in space’ riser recline chairs Lightweight wheelchairs Wide range of mobility scooters Extensive range of three/four wheeled walkers Bath and shower solutions Aids for daily living Profiling beds and stairlifts Discreet professional advice on continence management Advice and guidance on all aspects of mobility and personal care Equipment Hire Excellent after sales service and customer care 35 Lakeside, Watermead, Aylesbury, HP19 OFX | Tel: 01296 435607 | Web: www.theeasyliving.company Vale Life : Aug/Sept 2018

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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

with Philippa Batting

Being your own boss

verything that we do at Buckinghamshire Business First is geared towards helping businesses reach their full potential. From concept to formation, from a solid first year to yearly growth, from aspirations to survive to aspirations to thrive, entrepreneurs need support all along the way. That lightbulb moment of coming up with a business idea can come at any time, but a great idea can only reach its full potential with a support network in place to help nurture it. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why, in partnership with a host of local organisations, Buckinghamshire Business First has launched a brand new support service for start-up businesses called Be Your Own Boss. Buckinghamshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business start-up rate is among the highest in the country, but merely starting isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough. Many businesses fold

Help and support for start-ups

in the first year or two of trading. This is a result of multiple factors that differ from case to case, but a lack of access to knowledgeable advice, networking and training opportunities and appropriate funding are high on the list. It is imperative that we provide the type of support that enables business survival and growth rates to be as impressive as the start-up rate.

To that end, the Be Your Own Boss service features bespoke business support, training courses, advice and guidance from business owners, specialist workshops, networking events, access to hotdesking locations throughout the county, and access to an online business directory. In other words, it features everything a person needs in order to start a business and get a good understanding of how to run a business day-to-day. This service is an example of what can be achieved when organisations with similar outlooks and motivations come together, and we are delighted to be partnering on Be Your Own Boss with L&Q Housing Association, Red Kite Housing Association, Thames Valley Housing Association, Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust, Chiltern District Council, South Bucks District Council and Wycombe

Philippa Batting Down to business

District Council. The Be Your Own Boss journey starts with an Enterprise Day that outlines everything on offer from the service and gets people signed up in order to benefit from all of the support. To find out more about Be Your Own Boss and the support available to start-up businesses, visit: www.bbf.uk.com/beyourownboss, call: 01494 927130 or email: BusinessSupport@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

Hosted Telephony Business Mobiles

business solutions Communication Made Easy

Broadband Services/ Internet CCTV/Access Control M2M Sims (Machine to Machine)

01296 329875

www.gt-business.com 30

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

What’s in store at barn?

In recent years diversification has become part of rural life with many farmers having to use their ingenuity and adaptability to create new enterprises that support their agricultural endeavours. At North Weston Farm, near Thame, this is evident in the impressive adaptation of an old barn...

he Gurneys have farmed at North Weston since the 1960s and are now in their 3rd generation there. Located just off the A418 Thame to Oxford road, on the lane to Shabbington, and run by Richard and Angela Gurney and their son Henry, North Weston Farm mixes beef and arable production and up until 2013 ran a dairy herd. The building in which the dairy cows were milked and housed is no longer needed and has undergone a complete refurbishment to create a brand new self-storage facility. A team of local contractors took six months to convert the barn into a clean, dry and secure Barn Store facility that now offers a variety of storage options. Barn Store is available for both home and business use and offers 24 hour access. The facility has a range of storage units from 40sqft up to 320 sqft. It is secure with a hi-tech security system and CCTV. “Our most popular units so far are actually the smaller 40 and 60 sqft units,” says Richard, “its amazing how much you can actually fit into those units. Prospective customers are welcome to come down and have a look, it’s easier to judge what you might need when you can actually see inside the units. “Customers can drive right into the building if they wish and unload items under cover, which is especially useful when the weather is awful. The lighting is automatic and the whole facility is kept clean and dry, so loading and unloading your items is very straight forward. “Unlike many storage facilities we offer genuine 24/7 access, all year round with your own electronic key fob, so it’s ideal for businesses that need access out of normal

Inside the barn storage units range from 40ft2 to 320ft2

Henry, Angela and Richard Gurney working hours. Barn Store combines the latest technology with a personal customer service we live on site so are always there to help. The facility is very accessible and customers seem to enjoy coming to the farm and seeing the countryside, which is far more relaxing then fighting your way into a busy urban facility. “Welcoming storage customers into the same building I was milking cows in, only a few years ago, feels strange, but I am really

The Barn Store - you can open the shutters and drive right in to load/unload if you wish

enjoying it, especially meeting all the different people that come here now.” “Its great to be using the building for something completely new,” says Henry. “The barn lends itself perfectly to self-storage. The fact that my grandfather built it originally and we have now given it a new lease of life is quite special. I am sure he would be proud if he could see it today. “One of the biggest challenges was actually getting the storage units into the building, the longest unit being 40ft. Thankfully we had someone far better at driving the JCB than me that day!” “Our competitive rates are completely transparent and detailed on our website. We provide storage for as long or as short a period as required - our focus is on giving costumers complete flexibility, be it hours of access or length of stay and you can switch to a larger or smaller unit as your circumstances change. We already have a number of businesses storing with us. Putting items into storage can be far more cost effective than having them take up valuable office or industrial space.” l Barn Store Thame, North Weston Farm, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 2HA T: 01844 217754 E: thame@barn-store.co.uk www.barn-store.co.uk/thame-self-storage Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Aylesbury - industrial The Future Centre, preSS releASe

Smeaton Close, Aylesbury, HP19 8SZ - 34,692 sq ft

to let / For Sale

Detached industrial/warehouse building of 34,692 sq ft (3,223 sq m). Steel portal frame - constructed late 1980s. Good office content (11,400 sq ft), plus self-contained yard with 103 car parking spaces. The Future Centre is well located in a prominent position within the main industrial sector of Aylesbury. It was originally constructed to a bespoke design for an IT Company. Amenities • Prominent building with secured yard/car parking Alan Chandler, director of Chandler Garvey has been instructed Kingston Ltd road to • 11,400 sq ft ofby offices frontingSpace main spine market the Space Business Centre, a development of• Air 27conditioned units located in one back to back • 8 person passenger lift terrace and 16 units in the other. The units are of modern construction, having been built in • Attractive landscaping 2009. The sizes range from 367 sq. ft. up to 908 sq. ft. andheating are fitted with a mezzanine floor. • Space within warehouse/industrial area Large area from for articulated The total accommodation on the estate is 19,541 sq.•ft. Theyard/turning site benefits tax andvehicles stamp • 8.34m eaves height 10m to ridge) duty savings, cheaper than renting, commercial investment yields will(over be higher than yields on • 103 on site car parking spaces residential buy to lets, all units are business rates exempt (small business rateSmeaton relief),Close, and the other • 2 loading doors, one fronting within the small yard area on the side elevation. there is a dedicated unit and visitor parking. For Sale The virtual freehold interest – a long ground lease of 150 years from March 1999 at a peppercorn rent without rent review is available to purchase – Price on Application In addition the district freeholders have advised they would consider of their interest. The freehold is owned by Aylesbury Vale Council and Kingston Space disposing Ltd are the long To Let Alternatively the property is available on a new lease - quoting rent on request. leaseholders, with over 130 years remaining. units are available from £64,000 plus VAT. For more details contact joint agents: Chandler Garvey: 01296 398383, or Lambert Smith Hampton: 01908 604630.

CHAndler GArVey MArkeT neW CoMMerCiAl Buy To leT opporTuniTy in AyleSBury

All units are let on monthly licences and are now producing a gross annual income in excess to let / For of £300,000. Further details from Alan Chandler – ac@chandlergarvey.com / 01296 398383. Units For Sale 28-43 Space Business Centre, Sale Smeaton Close, Aylesbury, HP19 8FJ - 7,366 sq ft A valuable commercial investment, producing an income of £121,121.72 (gross) per annum. Space Business Centre comprises two terraces of small business units, constructed in 2009 with sizes ranging from 367-908 sq ft. All are fitted with a mezzanine floor. The terrace 28-43 (outlined in red) is available as a whole, and totals 7,366 sq ft. Benefits • Suitable for industrial, workshop, project space, warehouse storage and office use. • Loading access to each business unit. • Flexible mezzanine level. • Dedicated unit and visitors car parking • Amenity block, including shower facilities, kitchen etc. • CCTV and security barrier • 24/7 access • Tax and stamp duty savings • All individual units are Business Rates exempt • No car repairers/traders permitted on this site. Tenure - Leasehold, the property as a whole is held by Aylesbury Vale District Council on a 150 year ground lease from 5th March 1999, at a peppercorn rent. Price Long Leasehold Investment £1,178,000 plus VAT

A new perspective on property

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

www.chandlergarvey.com

A d ro p o f s h e r ry

by Sherry Hostler

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Two kiss or not to kiss...

ith the festive season literally just around the corner, and numerous parties and get togethers on the horizon, it would seem a good time to tackle the tricky subject of social kissing etiquette. It might just be me, but I’ve always felt a little bit flummoxed by social kissing. Do you go in for just one kiss? Which cheek do you go for first? Do you make the first move or wait for the other person to lean in? Do you plant a smacker or just brush cheeks with an echoing ‘Mwah’ sound? It’s an absolute minefield. In France it depends which region you’re in as to how many kisses you give, be it 2, 3 or in some cases as many as 5! Imagine how long it would take you to get round a room at a party… and how much lip balm you would get through! I’m not so sure that would go down quite so well at your local pub, where you might be better off with a chest bump and an ‘Alright mate?’

So, what do we do? Here’s a few useful tips: Take your lead from the other person. This works well unless they’re as unsure as you are, and you end up in some strange “Twister” position with hands crushed beneath bodies, licking each other’s ears... Pick a cheek to start with and stick to it (not literally). There are no hard and fast rules, and it’s no good going for the right cheek first if you’re approaching from the

left. Also make it a policy to go for a two kiss standard, thus avoiding the ‘Oops…going for two are we?’ conversation. Wipe your mouth beforehand. No one likes a sloppy kisser leaving a ring of saliva across their face. We’ve all been in that position post-kiss, wondering how long we can leave the damp patch before we can subtly wipe away the evidence without it being offensive. No kissing on the mouth! For God’s sake… this should be reserved only for loved ones, or the ones you want to love. We’ve all been to those dinner parties where your friend’s partner does the last minute head turn, giving you no escape from the lips. Unless it’s ‘that’ kind of party, it’s just not appropriate. Another no-no, is the air kiss. One word… Pretentious! At least make an effort to brush the cheek of the other person with yours. Don’t go in for a kiss when you haven’t met someone before. It’s WAY too over-friendly and a good

Sherry Hostler

A drop of Sherry

way to make sure you probably won’t be allowed within close proximity again. Male or female, if you’re just uncomfortable with social kissing, don’t feel you have to do it. Give a winning smile, a warm hand hold or a hug. After all, a kiss isn’t always appropriate, and your greeting will depend on the occasion, and how well you know the other person. In the words of Will Powers, you need to kiss with confidence, so get ready to pucker up! 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

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Starry nights NYC Collection, Villa Nova

Cosy Down With Ethereal Homeware Embrace the onset of winter with a lunar inspired edit to protect and warm the cockles...

ature is always a good reference point in design for its abundance of rich textures, workable colour palettes and timeless qualities. With Autumn upon us and frosty nights around the corner here’s an ethereal selection to hanker down with;

NYC Collection

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

1. NYC Fabric & Wallpaper Touch the stars as the magic of NYC is brought to life by illustrator Christopher Corr for Villa Nova. Think bright lights, soaring skyscrapers, iconic cabs and street art as this collection captures the magic of New York. Part of the Villa Nova ‘Picturebook Collection’, inspired by childhood memories of bedtime stories brought to life by captivating illustrations. Choose from fun fabrics, wallpaper and accessories that burst with wonder. And so the story begins for a magical kids bedroom.

Step inside

Polly Gibbs Polly Gibbs, Creative Director at Coco Design, shares her down to earth approach to interiors, from design secrets to trends and everything in between.

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

My Mirror My Moon, Diesel x Moroso My Mirror My Moon, Diesel x Moroso

NYC Collection 2. My Moon My Mirror I love collaborations for the creative fizz they bring, so when Diesel joined forces with a number of design houses to create a homeware collection it got my attention. The style is young, fresh and modern as you’d expect, targeting consumers who like simple shapes and pure lines for effortless living. Their collaboration with Moroso has really caught my eye, in particular ‘My Moon My Mirror’ is simply beautiful. The table and mirror capture the moon within silver mirrored glass. (Both 100cm diameter: Mirror £672, Table £828. Available at Nest). For serious space rangers there’s also the Cosmic Diner Collection Diesel x Seletti. Continued on page 37

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

CK Maya Rug styled by Rachel for Houseology

Continued from page 35

Sagan Wallpaper

3. Sagan in Night Blue by Maison C: Founded by artist Costanza Theodoli-Braschi and interior designer Chiara de Rege, Maison C wallpapers are influenced by nature, literature, fine art and fantasy. Sagan is inspired by the works of astronomer and thinker Carl Sagan, bringing the night sky into our homes. Hand-printed on

clay-finished eco paper, it features bright gold metallic stars twinkling on the matt background of complex dark blues which give the paper a real sense of depth and distance. This would look stunning with a Lee Broom crystal lightbulb in a funky cloakroom, or as a statement ceiling. (ÂŁ115.29sqm by Maison C. Available at George Spencer Designs). Continued on page 38

on kitc Ne di he w sp ns la y

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Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Continued from page 37 4. Evoking the cool neutral colours of mountain stone, the intricate and textural pattern of the stunning Calvin Klein Mercury Maya Rug is reminiscent of ancient Mayan artefacts. A custom-blend of pure New Zealand wool and high-performance Luxcelle fibres woven on power looms gives a rich silken mercury finish that is beautifully reflective in light, with subtle

scratches in a neutral colour for a gentle urban edge. Available in six different finishes and five sizes (From £369 at Houseology). 5. Raimond Suspension Lamp A serious contender as a future icon, designed by Raimond Puts (1937-2012) for Moooi who knew him as ‘The man who brought the starry sky into our homes’. His intricate mathematical spheres work on a premise that we

Moooi Raimond Light

CK Maya Rug in Mercury

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

www.kloeber.co.uk

The Old Dairy, Lawn Farm Business Centre, Grendon Underwood, Bicester, Buckinghamshire HP18 0QX

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VISITS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY to book call our Head Office on 01487 740044 Open Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 2pm Closed Sundays, Mondays and Bank Holidays

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Awards) and is available from 43cm diameter to a super huge 2mtrs diameter. (Stainless steel/LED. £1513 - £30,491. Stockists: Nest / Houseology). For more inspiration browse the Curious Coco dedicated ‘Starry Nights’ Pinterest board and follow on social.

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Raimond Light, Restaurant Wolfzaar by Suzy Vissers. Pic Nicole Marnati

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comforts Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Advertising Feature

Your Home: A new way onto the property ladder Your Home is doing things a little differently – we’ll help you onto the housing ladder, but we won’t expect you to compromise on size, style or location to achieve home ownership. Put simply, we provide the opportunity for you to own and live in the house you really love, in the area that you choose, by only buying a part of it. You still choose your home (whatever house you like, with a few exceptions) and live in it like you would if you owned it outright, but you’ll rent the part that you don’t buy. You might have heard of similar schemes, they are usually new, often purpose-built for first-time buyers, and truth be told, there aren’t that many around. You’ll definitely know about buying a house outright but might find that costs are simply too high to buy the home you really love.

Your Home is another way to do it...

You can choose any house for sale you like (with a few exceptions) and Your Home will turn it into a part-buy-partrent home by buying it and selling your share to you in the same day. It might be a cottage in the countryside, a towncentre showstopper or a family-sized house and garden in the suburbs that would usually be out of your price range Your Home can get you there.

Being a home owner and mortgage free is pretty rare when house prices are so high. With Your Home, you can be really flexible with the share you buy – it might only be 10%. This means that, depending on the size of your deposit and the value of the property, you could be a homeowner without needing to borrow from the bank. For example, if you want to buy a home worth £300,000, a share of 10% would cost you £30,000, which you might be able to save without borrowing any money. Advertising Feature

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Your dream home could make you money. Even better, if your home increases in value, you are entitled to 75% of the increase on the part you don’t own, as well as the part you do.

You can be a first-time buyer, looking to move house, going through a marriage break-up or even wanting to stay in your current home mortgage-free (by selling a portion and renting that part instead), as long as your household income is at or below £80,000 (£90,000 in London). Up to two people can purchase the home together. You will pay a monthly rental fee on the part you didn’t buy, a payment that will decrease if you decide to buy more of your home over time. If you haven’t needed a mortgage to buy your share, you’ll find that Your Home monthly payments can be cheaper than private rent – you’ll be on the housing

ladder and saving money. It is worth remembering that as a homeowner, you’ll also be responsible for the usual costs associated with owning a house. You can find out more about whether you are eligible for Your Home by contacting the Your Home team on 0203 744 0408. Offices are open Monday - Thursday 9am - 6pm and Fridays 9am - 5pm. You can apply easily online at yourhome.org/apply. A member of our team will then get in touch with a decision in principle and a budget to match your circumstances – you can then choose your home.

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by Marie Westerman Roberts

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Preparing for viewing ITED

magine you are just about to put your house on the market, photos will be taken, and people will come for viewings. So how do you prepare the house for all of this - the key is to clean, tidy and neutralise, and bring out the property’s personality without it being too personal to you, if that makes sense?! 1. Clean - the first impression is so important. You don’t want any unclean surfaces sticking in the viewers mind. Also try to harmonise as much as possible, so that the property as a whole makes the impression– not single items. 2. Try to let as much light in as possible! Don’t hang curtains that actually “steal” the light. Use lengths, maybe in bright linen where the light can sprinkle S lengths IRELESAlso, throughEEthe Wfabric. R F H can get hungSat WITtheC side of the

home feel alive. Get some trendy plants like the Fiddle leaf Plant, Banana Plant or Monstera Plant. 5. A beautifully made bed makes the whole bedroom! Go for comfy linen sheets and let them speak for themselves. Also, let the bedspread lie at the end of the bed! 6. Give the bathroom some extra care. Place a vase with a green twig and hang up clean plain towels. Remember to remove everything personal so that it doesn’t interfere with the impression. 7. The kitchen is the heart of the home and very important. Let it show properly, which means de-clutter a lot. You can probably remove a lot more than you think! Do not spread throughout the kitchen, collect cutting boards and nice

Marie Westerman Roberts utensils in groups and let them form a stylish display. 8. Finally, do not forget about the entrance area. It is the first and the last part of your home viewers will see. Therefore, it should be inviting, preferably, with practical storage to hide any clutter.

tel. 0771281 LEASE CHECK THIS PROOF CAREFULLY, tel. 075000482 ARTICULARLY PHONE NUMBERS AND web. www.chiltern OUR EMAIL ADDRESS

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window without covering it, making a big difference. 3. Another curtain tip is to use the height. Hang the curtain rails along the roof, that way the room feels bigger. 4. Add greenery and make the

l Marie Westerman Roberts

is an experienced home stager and the owner of Scandihome Home Staging Services. For more information call: 01844 390017 or email: marie@scandihome. co.uk. You can also follow her on Instagram @scandihomeuk for inspiration and ideas www.scandihome.co.uk

Operate your garage door from anywhere the houseexpert Your local garageindoor 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 install a range of garage doors. Whether it’s a space saving Roller Garage Door, a Sectional Garage Door for extra insulation or a new Up and Over Garage Door our products are of the From our base in Thame, we supply and install a range of highest quality with a wide choice of colours and materials.

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Two and three-bedroom houses and apartments priced from £350,000 42

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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safe as houses

with Nigel Grace

Sourcing materials

hatever size project you are planning, from decorating a room, to a complete new build, you will need materials. Some people choose to use a single trades person or builder and leave them responsible for the ordering, purchasing and payment of materials, paying them either at the end or during the project. You can save a lot of money by buying the materials yourself though, not only the overheads and profit that most builders put on the cost of materials, but it also gives you the opportunity to shop around and look for the best deals. For ease most builders tend to use a small number of merchants where they have trade accounts to source materials. They also tend not to have the time to speak to multiple merchants – particularly if they are running multiple jobs. You only need to drive around towns such as Aylesbury or High Wycombe to see the large number of both general builder’s merchants and specialists that have appeared. About ten years ago in Aylesbury

there were probably only 2-3 merchants, now that number has doubled if not more – I can easily think of six, and there are probably more. This has led to intense competition as they all fight for your business. Historically most merchants used to deal with the trade only, you needed to open an account, but this competition has led them to welcome domestic customers. Merchants also used to be quite intimidating places but again this has changed. So, if you have time get quotes from all of the merchants, and don’t be afraid to play one off against the other. Also, don’t feel you should buy all of your materials from one supplier, use the cheapest one for each product. What has also helped with this competition is the increased range of products stocked by what used to be known as DIY warehouses – but they are more than that now! You only need to look around the car park of the two main DIY warehouses that we have in Aylesbury to see that a lot of trade professionals shop there – and they do that for good reasons.

One other service that most merchants offer is material scheduling. Knowing how much to order can be difficult, you could ask your builder, but if you have detailed drawings you can ask merchants to do what we call a ‘take-off’ which calculates the total amount of each material you will need for your project. This is an incredibly useful service and in most instances, it can be free. The development of the internet has also opened all sort of options for buying building materials. The building industry is notoriously slow to embrace change, but slowly the internet has had a big impact on the sourcing of construction materials, and it can all be done from your home. By spending time researching on line you can again save considerable money on your materials – but it can take time. I have worked with clients who don’t just look locally for materials, but source them from overseas. Countries such as China and India are commonly used plus those closer to home in Europe. Don’t rule this out but remember if you

Nigel Grace

Safe as houses

run short or need spares it won’t be so easy to pop to the trade counter and buy some!!!! Self-sourcing materials can be rewarding – both in terms of satisfaction and financially but before you decide to take on this part of your project you must appreciate that it can be time consuming and stressful - as you need to make sure the materials are on site at the right time otherwise work will grind to a halt!! However, by planning ahead and working closely with your builder or trades professional there is no reason why you cannot do it successfully – just allow yourself plenty of time! l Nigel Grace MRICS is an experienced chartered quantity surveyor. If you need help or advice on your project contact him on: nigel@nigelgracelimited.co.uk

‘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 : Sept/Oct 2018

‘The Art of Wood Burning’

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01865 361505 www.manorhousestoves.co.uk Featured stoves from JØtul 44

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Real Living

Thinking of selling your home? by Charlotte Bolton

For a quick sale at a good price your home needs to look its best. Following these simple tips should improve your chances…

Keep the approach neat and tidy for maximum kerb appeal

e all have different likes and different tastes and our homes generally reflect our individual personalities. That’s fine until the time comes to put your home on the market. Then, unless you are hoping someone exactly like you walks through the door, you need to appeal to as wide a market as possible, so depersonalise a little and allow your home’s natural potential to shine through.

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Real Living Charlotte Bolton

Tip: Consider putting some items into 1) First impressions count storage until you move. The cost incurred Plant Flowers, Repaint Front Door, etc... would be minimal compared with a lengthy Most buyers form their impression of a selling process. Removing large furniture for house within seconds of walking through example could mean your the door. Spend time house sells more quickly tidying up the outside and for the right price… of the house, especially the approach – plant 3) Is your décor flowers, trim bushes, neutral? weed, repaint the front One of the most door and make sure your common mistakes door furniture is looking sellers can make is not really great. If you have a presenting a neutral path make sure it is swept canvas. Your style choices clean and looks tidy. Get rid of any clutter! could be wonderful, but Tip: If you have an you want the next owner allocated parking space, to see this as their potential home. You want to or room outside your house, reserve this sell the house, so you can move towards your for the viewer. A convenient and hassle-free new life, this means showcasing the property viewing will help them visualise living in their to meet as many tastes as possible in order to new home right from the start. find the right buyer. You don’t need to remove every individual touch - or paint all the walls 2) De-clutter your space magnolia - but maybe take a step back and Present Organised Tidy Rooms consider which areas could be improved. Space is key and if prospective buyers can’t Tip: Ask friends and family to role-play as see the space they won’t appreciate what your home can offer them. By presenting organised, house-hunters and tell you what they would Continued on page 46 uncluttered areas you’re encouraging viewers to imagine themselves living in the house and to realise just how much they could be getting for their money. Don’t give the impression there’s not enough space or storage by letting clutter burst out of cupboards either.

Present tidy uncluttered rooms

Keep décor neutral Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Continued from page 45 change about each living area. It could be as simple as a new throw on the sofa or toning down the bright purple bedroom curtains. 5. Make sure each room has a purpose… Are you showcasing every room to the best of its abilities? You may be using the 3rd bedroom for sewing or storage, but this isn’t going to sell your house. Make sure each room has a clear purpose and if it’s being marketed as a bedroom it should include a bed. Tip: If you have large landing areas that are unused or wasted space, put a comfy chair and small coffee table in the area and present this as a cosy nook for reading. It’ll add to the lifestyle appeal and give the illusion of more living space.

Real Living

by Charlotte Bolton

you’ll find it easier to maintain once the deep-clean has taken place. 8) Make sure each room smells fresh Smell is so important it needs its own spot on the list. Much like cleanliness, prospective buyers will immediately take a disliking to your house if they’re faced with an unpleasant smell. This could be old cooking, pets, smoke, drains, for example anything that isn’t fresh and clean shouldn’t be smelt in a house viewing. Tip: Remove pet beds and air the property thoroughly before

A professional homestager can help you present your home in the most marketable way and save a lot of time and money

6) Fix any necessary minor repairs! It’s all in the presentation and you should be proud to present your home to prospective buyers. You may be reluctant to spend money when you know you’re leaving, but minor repairs that improve the appeal of the property will increase your chances of a quick sale. The quicker you sell, the quicker you can move on into your dream home. 7) Is your home clean and tidy? Think like a Make sure viewer. Would you rooms are tidy buy a house that had and smell fresh dirty towels in the bathroom or pet hair all over the carpet? House-hunters may be instantly put off and can even stop the viewing if they can’t see past the washing up! Don’t lose your buyer because of a little untidiness or an open toilet seat. Tip: Save time and energy and hire a professional cleaning company to do the hard work for you. They’ll do a fantastic job and Make the most of any outdoor space 46

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Sort out minor repairs

any viewing. Invest in air-fresheners that slowly release scents to maintain a fresh feeling all day long, perfect for viewings at any time of day. 9) Is your garden space well presented? You’ve thought about the front but don’t forget about the rest of your outdoor space.

Whether you have a large rear garden, courtyard terrace or balcony – all outdoor areas should be treated as any other living space and be presented in a clean and tidy manner. Outdoor space is highly sought after and you can win over your viewer instantly with a wow-factor garden. Tip: Bring the outside in encourage the feeling of more natural space with potted plants and reap the health benefits yourself too! l Home Staging - ‘dressing’ or ‘styling’ a home ready for sale - is becoming increasingly popular in the UK as it gets results. If you would like to find out more about having your home dressed in preparation for putting it on the market and receiving viewings, contact Charlotte Bolton at Charlotte Bolton Interiors, Tel: 07903 655592 info@charlotte-bolton-interiors.co.uk www.charlotte-bolton-interiors.co.uk

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

In the garden

with Naomi MacKay

It’s that right b ‘Time to think about planting,’ says Vale Life gardening expert Naomi MacKay...

Plant bulbs now for a good display next year

g w nin Ne Clea ice v tio er Pa S 48 Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

ummer has barely ended, and while you may like to hang on to those sunny days, now’s the time to start getting organised for the coming seasons. It’s been a long, hot summer, and even as I write this the sun is still shining, although the mornings have that misty, dewy autumnal feel to them. While the ground is nice and dry, though, it’s the perfect time to think about planting – and getting some bulbs in the ground. One of the advantages of the dry spell, especially for those who have a very clay soil, is that bulbs are less likely to rot.

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Many times we’ve planted in our claggy ground and seen no rewards for our labours. The answer, of course, is to plant in containers and pots where possible. But if you do want a good showing in a border – and bulbs are the perfect remedy for early spring gaps in your planting – now is the time to get busy. Ideally, the heralds of spring – such as daffodils, hyacinths and crocus – should be planted by the end of September. Tulips can wait until November. For blooms you will see next summer – crocosmia, alliums and lilies – September and October are the optimum planting months.

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

In the garden

with Naomi MacKay

bulb moment!

Hyacinth Of course, it’s not only flowers that can be planted – garlic bulbs can be put in the ground from

Daffodils November to January and you can expect to harvest them around July.

Bulb planting tips 1. Prepare the ground If you are planting in the ground,

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In the garden Continued from page 49 have a clay soil, add horticultural grit to help prevent rot and give the plants a chance to grow through the heavy earth. If you are planting up containers, make sure drainage is good, with some crocks added to the bottom of the pot. You can use special bulb compost, or just add some horticultural grit to your usual compost. 2. How deep? The planting hole should be three or four times deeper than the bulb. Make sure the bulb is not soft or showing signs of mould. Also ensure you plant it the right way up, with the beginnings of roots at the bottom and the ‘pointy end’ on top. It’s not always easy to tell which end is up on some bulbs – however, I’m told they will still grow through even if planted upside down – although it does put unnecessary stress on the plant and they will not perform as well. If you are unsure, you can plant bulbs on their side to hedge your bets!

with Naomi MacKay

Adam Frost and Pippa Greenwood

Imperial Crown 3. Something special If you want something a little more grand than your average daffodil or tulip, Crown Imperials

(Fritillaria imperialis) are fabulously impressive. A clump planted together will really make a statement. They are

not keen on clay soils though, but it is possible to plant them on their sides, which lessens the risk of water entering the top of the bulb

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

In the garden

with Naomi MacKay

Imperial Crown and causing rot.

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Tulip ‘Fly Away’

Something different The blooms of Tulip ‘Fly Away’ look like dancing red and yellow flames – they’ll really catch the eye if you plant these in your front garden! They can be ordered online from Dobbies Garden Centres at: www.dobbies.com/products/plants/ bulbs-seeds/spring-flowering-bulbs/

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

a n i m a l m ag i c

with Lucy Ellis

Nature needs a hand

hen the bad weather returns this autumn and winter, spare a thought for the wildlife in your garden. As natural reserves of seeds and berries dwindle, birds rely on food put out for them, and once they find a reliable source they will return regularly. You can choose the foods you offer to suit the birds you want to attract. Suet is a pure fat substance which comes in many forms to provide an easy, high calorie food for winter insulation. Buy suet as fat balls, cakes and logs, all of which fit in different styles of feeders, or you can buy suet pellets in bug or berry flavour to mix in with any other seed mixes. Sunflowers are a good choice for a wide variety of birds. Try black oil sunflower seeds for songbirds, kernels and chips for smaller birds, and bigger pieces for strongerbilled larger birds. Nyjer are small seeds which are particularly popular with finches.

Hedgehogs like cat and dog food

As the seed is easily blown away, it is best to supply nyjer in mesh-style feeders, which means it is only really accessible to clinging birds. Peanuts are also calorific and can be offered whole or ground, either on a platform or in a specialist feeder. Mealworms are favoured by insect-eating birds and are appreciated when they are trying to feed their hungry young. Fruit, such as bruised apples and pears, overripe berries, or small chunks of banana and orange, will attract songbirds. Place the feeder in a sheltered spot if possible, but out of reach of

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predators, including local cats, and clean it out regularly. Bright colours are appealing to birds as they are indicative of a healthy mate, ripe fruit and flowers full of nectar. Hummingbirds go for warm colours (red, pink and orange), goldfinches and warblers like yellow, while cooler blue shades appeal to jays and camouflage colours (green, grey, brown) are comforting to more nervous breeds. You can add colour to your garden through flowers, decorative items, fence paint, benches, pots, and your bird feeder or bath. Avoid white if you want birds in your garden as they see it as a warning sign. Hedgehogs are preparing for hibernation, so this is a critical period for them in which to build up their fat reserves to survive the long sleep. Leaving a small 13cm x 13cm gap in your garden perimeter allows hogs to roam overnight in their ongoing quest for food. Please don’t put out bread or

Lucy Ellis

Animal Magic milk, instead try some meaty dog or cat food with a sprinkling of mealworms, or something from Spike’s Dinner range at Unique Pets, and don’t forget to offer fresh water. Hogs are also house-hunting during the autumn, so if you don’t have a bespoke hogitat you can offer a bundle of hay or straw under a dry shed, a log pile or by a hedge for a hibernation station. Now is a good time to sow wildflowers to attract bees and butterflies next year. ‘Beebombs’ contain 18 species of wildflowers native to Britain and don’t need to be planted, just thrown onto cleared ground! l Lucy Ellis is a writer and

blogger who with Jenna Tomlins runs Unique Pets (Aylesbury & Winslow), independent pet shops, www.uniquepets.co.uk

l l a B y l f r Butte A glittering ball is being held at one of the world’s oldest rowing clubs later this year in aid of people with life limiting or life threatening illnesses.

The South Bucks Community Hospice is arranging the ‘Butterfly Ball 2018’ at the prestigious Leander Club in Henley on Saturday October 13. The rowing club is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. Proceeds from the event will go to help patients at the hospice based at Butterfly House, High Wycombe.

Saturday 13th October 2018

Leander Club Henley If you are interested in offering sponsorship or attending, please contact Alan Chandler on 07831 372711 or ac@chandlergarvey.com

Tickets are £95 The price includes canapés and fizz, a three-course meal, entertainment and dancing. Tables of 10 are available.

Dress Black Tie Canapes and fizz from 7pm Carriages midnight Please help us make this a night to remember and raise as much money as possible.

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

South Bucks Hospice is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Registered in England and Wales No. 6775584. Registered Charity No. 1128881. Registered office is Butterfly House, Kingswood Park, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP13 6GR.

Wild Cats arrive at Eco Farm G

reen Dragon Eco Farm, opened Phase One of its new Wildlife Zone on August 1st, following months of planning, fund-raising and construction. This exciting and ever-evolving project now enables visitors to view British and European native species up close and enhances the already popular Animal Encounters Programme with talks and demonstrations involving the new wildlife, such as the Red Squirrels, Wallabies and Birds Of Prey. There are also daily training sessions with the Silver Fox and Ravens. The Scottish Wildcats have just arrived and will be followed in September by the Pine Marten, European Polecat and Lynx during Phase Two of the project. Protection & Conservation The Zone’s aim is to support the protection and conservation of British and European native animals that are ‘conservation

sensitive’ or at risk in the wild, so need active conservation to protect their populations. The five-acre Wildlife Zone consists of extra-large enclosed environments for the animals, a central, covered teaching space, and an outdoor display lawn for demonstrations and flying displays. Interpretation boards and interactive talks give information about each species, their link to UK native habitats and how conservation can help them in the wild. Outdoor Learning In addition to appealing to older children and offering Wild Cat additional curriculum links, the new species mean that the Animal Encounters Programme is now even more fascinating for the visiting public. And for those visitors wanting extra special close encounters with the wildlife, Ranger for a

talks about heritage varieties as well as young trees for sale. Visitors can experience the whole process first hand from picking apples in the orchard to pressing them for apple juice to take away.

Birds of Prey demonstration

Day - an exciting and exclusive experience for 10 to 17 year olds, is a great option for birthdays and special occasions. Apple Day Green Dragon are celebrating their heritage apples on Saturday, 6th October with Apple Day - A FREE event with activities for all ages including apple-pressing and

Halloween The Halloween event runs from 20th to 31st October. This is a family friendly event that hosts a variety of themed, educational and fun experiences and activities, such as the Wizard Sensory Games, HBeastly Bug hunts and Creepy Story-telling. Highlights of the event are the hands-on animal encounters with the Dragon Witch and the Pumpkin Carving Experience where visitors can pick their own pumpkins in the orchard, carve a design and take it home. l The Green Dragon Eco Farm, Play Centre & Eaterie, Claydon Road, Hogshaw, Bucks, MK18 3LA T: 01296 670444 W: www.greendragonecofarm.co.uk Open daily 10am-5.30pm

For more details about the Wildlife Zone, Ranger for a Day, or Autumn activities and events, please ring 01296 670444 or email info@greendragonecofarm.co.uk

Kiss & Tell

with Tracy Kiss

Bunny it’s cold outside

ith the winter months creeping up on us I love nothing more than coming home after a long day, popping the heating on and soaking in a nice hot bubble bath. We’ve waved goodbye to the summer sun, golden tans and bright evening BBQ’s and welcomed in the cosiness of wet and windy weekends - along with our pets! Over the years we’ve had thirteen rabbits (after discovering one of the boys was in fact a girl) and they’ve all lived merrily in the garden, nestled up safe within the shed, with a clever little cat flap allowing them to free roam the garden as and when they choose, rather than residing in cages. But it’s the first time that we’ve had a house bunny until now and it’s made the difference between having another pet and my children meeting their new brother. And by brother I don’t mean a human baby, I mean our fluffy wuffy lion-haired Simba and

House bunny reclining dwarf lop Alfie bunnies of course! Whilst rabbits were once seen as outdoor pets to be hugged once a month and then sadly fed and forgotten about, house bunnies are far more engaging, interactive and inquisitive creatures and I could never imagine having a pet live outdoors ever again. Our bunnies

love sprawling out on the lounge rug of an evening as we watch DVDs, hopping up onto the sofa for tickles and snuggles and eagerly join us in the kitchen for scraps and nibbles as I peel the vegetables for dinner. You see, pets are more than just play things for children, they’re family, and when you start treating them like part of the team it’s fascinating how quickly they adapt to human life - our house bunnies certainly think they’re cats! Much like anything in life, the more effort you put in, the greater the reward that you get back and animals are no exception. Whilst dogs need regular walking, hamsters nosily trundle on their exercise wheels all night and cats go off on adventures for days if not weeks on end, house bunnies are the ideal combination of every pet you could possibly imagine. Litter training was a breeze, meal times take two scoops and

Tracy Kiss

Kiss & tell my garden has never been so clean, tidy and weed-free since my furry chompers came to join us. Our bunnies are always enthusiastic, affectionate and ready to play. Aside from the first few nibbles on wooden furniture, when we first got them and they were learning the ropes, they’re pretty relaxed and simple to tend to. So if you’re thinking of adding to your family this year, please remember, a pet is for life and not just for Christmas, and as the nights get colder you needn’t leave your furry friends outside. l Read Tracy’s blog at: www.tracykiss.com or follow her on: Twitter: @misstracykiss or Facebook: /TheTracyKiss Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Music Column:

Turn it up! with Skanky Chaz

Story of Etta

Music columnist Skanky Chaz is a musician, songwriter, band manager, agent, sunworshipper and connoisseur of fine lager. Would you trust this man? Well it’ll do no harm to send him details of your local music activities: editor@vale-life.co.uk and don’t forget to add your gigs to our website what’s on diary for free at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Live Music september 22nd Fret Heads: Dukes, Aylesbury Andy Robbins: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 27th Jamnation: Dukes, Aylesbury Bad Bones: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 28th Skamungas: Dukes, Aylesbury Mitchell & Vincent: Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury RockBone: The Bell Inn, Tring Vocal Panther: Black Horse, Tring Acoustic Revelators Jack & Alice, Tring 29th Replica Rockaholics: Dukes, Aylesbury Nia Visser: Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury Large Portion: Aristocrat, Aylesbury Jason Stretch: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough Slim Chance: Tring Park Cricket Club, Tring 30th Jan S Robinson: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough October 4th Leech: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 6th McVicar: Dukes, Aylesbury Skamungas: Princes Risborough Community Centre 7th Smooth Operator: (4-7pm) Anglers Retreat, Marsworth Jax & Co: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough (6-8pm) 11th David Ashworth: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 12th Folk in the Annexe: Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury 13th JUMP Band: Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury MOJO: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 14th Adam Piggottl: Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough (6-8pm) 19th Big Gilson & Blues Dynamite Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Maytals to play Oxford T

he smash-hit show, At Last - The Etta James Story, returns to the UK this Autumn starring the sensational Vika Bull. Having wowed British audiences in 2017 as part of an ecstatically received short tour, Vika and the phenomenal Essential R&B Band start a 23 date visit, kicking off at The swan Theatre in High Wycombe on Friday, September 21st. Telling the story of soul legend Etta James’ turbulent life and features some of her most beloved songs including Tell Mama, Something’s Got A Hold On Me, Sugar On The Floor, the heart rending I’d Rather Go Blind, her iconic signature song At Last and more... Vika puts her heart and soul into this unforgettable show and is joined on stage by some of Australia’s finest and funkiest musicians. C Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe Box Office: 01494 512 000 M W: www.wycombeswan.co.uk

Swingin’ time Y

MY ig Band Swing perform their bold and brassy mix of musicCY by the likes of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Neal Hefti, Sammy CMY Nestico, Glen Miller, Roger Holmes,K Nelson Riddle, Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, Helen O’Connel and more at Haddenham Village Hall on Friday, 9th November, raising money for local charities. It’ll be a cracking night of swinging big band sounds with plenty of room to dance. Doors open at 7.30pm, there’s a bar and a lucky ticket prize, so don’t delay! Tickets for the event are £10 from: 07977 138044 or email: tickets@bigbandswing.co.uk

oots & The Maytals are to perform at Oxford’s O2 Academy, on Friday 26th October, as part of their 2018 UK Tour. The band, who are one of the all-time great reggae, ska and rocksteady groups, are led by the irrepressible Frederick ‘Toots’ Hibbert. Formed in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1961 the group Frederick ‘Toots’ Hibbert brought reggae to the masses with pioneering hits such influenced countless artists. as ‘Do The Reggay’ (widely A five-time Grammy acknowledged as the first nominee, Toots & The Maytals song ever to feature the word won the 2005 Grammy Award ‘reggae’), ‘Pressure Drop’, for Best Reggae album with ‘54-46 (That’s My Number)’, True Love. ‘Sweet and Dandy’, ‘Monkey “The UK is a home from Man’, ‘Funky Kingston’ and home for us,” said Toots. “We’re ‘Reggae Got Soul’. looking forward to seeing all Across six decades, Toots’ our friends during our tour.” raw, gospel-infused vocals www.academymusicgroup. 303-18_DJ2Party_xmas_ad_master-1.pdf 1 04/09/2018 13:08 and life-affirming music has com/o2academyoxford/

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s h ow t i m e

with Shaun Nolan

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Anyone for Chess?

don’t go to school anymore, but for me, September and October still feel like the start of a new year. New season, new projects and new theatre! And this Autumn, that’s more true than ever. At the Court Theatre in Tring, the Berkhamstead Theatre Company are staging a new production of Benny Anderson, Bjorn Ulvaeus and Tim Rice’s Chess from October 9th to October 13th. The hit musical tells a story of love and political intrigue set against two backdrops: the Cold War and a chess championship. BTC are very popular for taking on some of the biggest musicals around – I’m sure this one won’t disappoint. At the Aylesbury Waterside this month, get ready to disco as Saturday Night Fever struts its way on to the stage from October 9th to October 13th! This big new stage production of the hit 1970s John Travolta movie promises “more

Patti LuPone drama, more music and hot new choreography”. My Grandma and I are already looking forward to seeing it, so perhaps we’ll see you there? If that’s not up your street, then maybe one of these two major offerings at the Waterside will be: Harry Judd, Louis Smith and Aston Merrygold dance and sing their way through a selection of 60s tunes in Rip It Up for one night only on Sunday Oct 14th, while a musical adaptation of Cliff

classical lass

Richard’s film Summer Holiday makes its way to the Waterside stage from October 23rd to 27th. With so much else to offer as well, there’s plenty of stuff by the canal for you to choose from this season. In good old London town this month, there is an even wider selection of new openings, from major musical revivals to landmark new plays. On September 26th, my favourite musical of all time, Stephen Sondheim’s Company returns to the West End at the Gielgud Theatre with Broadway legend Patti LuPone headlining the cast. This production differs to others though: for the first time ever, the lead character Bobby is now played by a woman with all other roles changing gender accordingly. Helmed by legendary stage director Marianne Elliot (the brains behind Curious Incident and War Horse), it’s not one to miss. If plays are more your bag though, I highly recommend The

Shaun Nolan Showtime!

Inheritance at the Noel Coward Theatre, which starts performances on September 21st. This brand new play by Matthew Lopez is a depiction of gay men in modern day New York, reflecting on the generation that came before them. I saw it off-West End earlier this year and it is truly life-changing. It’s in two parts, so its running time is around seven hours in total, but it’s well, well worth it. l Shaun Nolan is a freelance writer

and producer who, when he isn’t writing columns, is typically found writing 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!

with Nicola Lisle

Spirits of the past

lassical music concerts in stunning venues are always a special treat and there are two coming up in the Vale this autumn. On 28th September, baroque ensemble Fiori Musicali (www.fiori-musicali. com) makes a welcome return to the sumptuous Marble Saloon at Stowe House with a programme of choral music that spans five centuries – from Tudor composer John Taverner to his 20th century near-namesake John Tavener. Taverner’s Missa O Michael and Dum transisset Sabbatum form an exquisite framework around Tavener’s haunting Svyati and Song for Athens. The concert features cellist Poppy Walshaw, the Fiori Musicali Choir and conductor Penelope Rapson, who founded Fiori Musicali 35 years ago. The following night is the finale of Waddesdon Manor’s 2018 Music at Windmill Hill series (www.waddesdon.org.uk), featuring

Phantasm

the internationally-acclaimed Doric String Quartet making their Windmill Hill debut with string quartets by Haydn, Britten and Schubert. The Little Missenden Festival, now in its 59th year, is on from 5th14th October with a total of twelve events over ten days. Highlights include recitals by the renowned Heath Quartet, viol consort Phantasm, young choral ensemble Sansara and rising young piano star Luka Okros, as well as a film and discussion on Sir Michael Tippett,

who was a regular visitor to the festival and died 20 years ago this year. For the full programme, visit www.little-missenden.org. Elsewhere in the Vale, Wendover Music (www.wendover-music.org) brings Liverpool Cathedral organist Ian Tracey to St Mary’s Church, Wendover, on 29th September to give the inaugural recital on the church’s new Makin organ. Then, on 13th October, pianist Alexandra Vaduva opens the new Amersham Concert Club (www. amershamconcerts.org.uk) season in Little Chalfont with a recital of sonatas, suites and other delights by Scarlatti, Schubert, Enescu, Bartok and Beethoven. Finally, with Halloween on the horizon, Aylesbury Opera is following up its successful March production of Bellini’s Norma by turning its attention to Benjamin Britten’s final opera, The Turn of the Screw, which is based on Henry James’ famous ghostly tale. The fully-staged production is at Sir

Nicola Lisle

Classical Lass Henry Floyd Grammar School, Aylesbury, on 19th-20th October, and features professional singers, a thirteen-piece orchestra and staff and pupils from the school, under the musical direction of Kelvin Lim. In addition the company is launching Aylesbury Youth Opera this month - a fabulous opportunity for young singers to discover their voices and learn more about opera and vocal technique. Visit their website for full details (www.aylesburyopera.org.uk). 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. Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

8, 9, 10 and 11 Nov 2018 7:30pm Tickets £15 World’s End Garden Centre Theatre, Wendover

A stunning account of life in the trenches in WW1. Part of the Ubiquitous Remembrance project. A major, publicly funded, production to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of WW1.

JOUR N E Y’S END by R.C. Sherriff

For tickets Reserve your tickets at the Customer Services Desk Online: ticketsource.co.uk/uttc (no booking fee) Email: contact@uttc.info Call: 0333 666 4466 56

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Funded in part by Heart of Bucks, we will be making a significant contribution to Remembrance 2018 in the Aylesbury area.

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Flying start for festival Box office records were smashed this year as local culture vultures clamoured to book seats for Thame Arts and Literature Festival events. There’s still plenty of tickets available though and a fabulous lineup of writers, musicians and artists to see at some 40 events in Thame from 18th to 21st October...

he 9th Thame Arts and Literature Festival (TAL) is off to a cracking start with online first day box office records smashed and people queuing at Thame Town Hall to buy tickets to see TV presenter and historian Lucy Worsley talking about her new book, Lady Mary, and to see the Last British Dambuster George ‘Johnny’ Johnson MBE DFM. Each year TAL goes from strength to strength attracting some of the biggest names in the literary world and top musical performers as well as supporting local artists. 3,500 people are expected to attend around 40 events covering history, politics, fiction, poetry, playwriting, music,sport, art and TALKids, staged in a variety of venues across the historic market town. Some of the highlights of this year’s festival include: Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and UN Special Envoy on Climate Change, who believes that the world’s climate change challenge needs to be addressed at grassroots level, beginning with mothers and grandmothers like herself; controversial and colourful human rights lawyer Geoffrey Robertson Q.C. recalls his many battles on behalf of Julian Assange, The Sex Pistols and Mike Tyson from his memoir Rather His Own Man: In Court with Tyrants, Tarts and Troublemakers; and for poetry lovers, Wendy Cope OBE brings her inimitable style of verse from her long-awaited new collection, Anecdotal Evidence. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be entrusted with the responsibility of writing the next chapter in the life of world-famous detective Hercule Poirot? Find out from leading crime fiction author Sophie Hannah whose latest Poirot novel The Mystery of Three Quarters, set in 1930s London, hit The Sunday Times Top 10 Bestseller list within days of its

Lucy Worsley

Sophie Hannah

Hugh Fraser ‘Captain Hastings’ launch. Agatha Christie fans will love listening to actor Hugh Fraser, who played Captain Hastings in the ITV series, chat about his role and how as a thriller writer he is enjoying success with Stealth, the fourth book in his gritty Rina Walker assassin series. 2018 marks the centenary of women’s suffrage with Oxford author Jane Robinson - Hearts and Minds: The Untold Story of the Great Pilgrimage and How Women won the Vote explaining how that victory was achieved. Pack a picnic supper, sip a glass of complimentary Prosecco and savour the sublime Opera Anywhere company singing the Music of Morse in an exciting ‘Glyndebarn’ setting. Children will love the zany Chris Lloyd as he whisks through ‘The History of Everything’, and younger children (4-7yrs) can ‘Zim, Zam, Zoom’ with award-winning poet James Carter. “People keep asking me which Festival was my favourite,” says Yvonne Maxwell, Founder and Director of TAL Festival, “and I always say, ‘the next one’! Each Festival generates

Geoffrey Robertson QC

Mary Robinson

Dambuster Johnny Johnson Tickets to see George ‘Johnny’ Johnson, ‘the last Dambuster’ (pictured above) literally flew out of the box office and this event is now SOLD OUT!

its own personality and Festival 2018 is no exception. We are thrilled to welcome so many authors and artists to the town but the people who make it special are those who support the events and give us our unique, exciting atmosphere.” Thame Arts and Literature Festival 2018 runs from 18th to 21st October. For full details and to book online visit: www.talfestival.org or telephone: 07885 484406. You can also buy tickets in person from Thame Town Hall on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 4pm and on Fridays and Saturdays from 9.30am to 1.30pm. l Thame Arts and Literature Festival, 18th-21st October 2018. Various venues across Thame. Info and tickets: www.talfestival.org or telephone 07885 484406. Buy tickets in person from Thame Town Hall on Tuesdays 9.30am4pm and Fridays/Saturdays 9.30am-1.30pm.

Wendy Cope

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

The ink said

P owe r cut

amira felt her way through the drawer in the fading half-light. Of course, as is always the case when you need to find anything fast, it was choked with useless objects that her babaanne had hoarded, in that resourceful way grandmothers do: ribbons, some kind of clock mechanism, thimbles, a bristly outdoor paintbrush. She found three candles, and she lit them all at once. Who knew how long it would last tonight? All afternoon the thunder had grumbled here and there, like an upset stomach churning over the

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

by Gabrielle Turner

city. She pressed her face close to the cool glass of the window. The clouds were full with night, or rain, or both. Behind her, the candles flickered in the dimness. Strange, she wondered to herself. There was never a draught in this stuffy house. Suddenly there was a bluewhite flash, then another, and then too many to count, and the rain began to come down, washing the cobblestones dark. Doors hastily slammed shut. In an instant, the city was silent. She squeaked the stiff window open, just enough to press her nose to the wrought iron bars and see out. Cool air rushed in, baptising her chin with a fine spray from the windowsill. Somewhere in a nearby alley, a dog was barking.

She stared out in the direction of the old town. In the absence of any electric light, it seemed fragile, as if it were built from origami. Curious polygons balanced against one another, in impossible ways that shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay upright. One by one, its windows lit up like paper lanterns. How many candles would it take, she found herself wondering, to burn Istanbul to the ground?

Gabrielle Turner The ink said

The wet night blew in through the bars, and it smelled of autumn, stone in the shadows, birthdays. She realised it was the smell of candles, all blown out. Their smoke curled languidly towards her, escaping.

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

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

with Sandra Smith

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Watching paint dry

he stillness and tranquillity encapsulated in Michael Spark’s landscapes transcend the obvious cliché. Yes, he captures a moment in time, and how privileged the onlooker is to be part of that. But as well as sharing those instants, scenes, which captivate this talented artist, we are simultaneously the beneficiaries of serenity, so calm and calming are his paintings. Not surprisingly, these gifts reflect the artist, a man whose quiet, composed manner is encapsulated in his subject matter. “I’ve always tended to go for quite intimate landscapes,” the 58 year old states. “Perhaps a small path or stream through a landscape; I find that easier to get a handle on.” At his Buckland Common home we’re sitting in a converted garden shed, a dedicated space enhanced by natural light, shelves of art books and paint splattered floorboards. Here the graphic

Michael Spark designer explains what it is that attracts his eye. “It’s not just about what a place looks like but your feeling when you’re there. A couple of times I passed a tree near the Hale; I liked the way the landscape went

round it. One day I stopped and did some drawing.” Quick, “scribbly” sketches are often Michael’s starting point. Back at his studio, following an initial reticence, he paints onto Arches paper. “I always freeze a bit when I start an oil painting. I begin with key shapes, for instance the way a river runs. I tend to have a limited pallet because it’s too busy otherwise so I have three complementary, subtle colours, using them quite thinly so they go on top of each other.” We discuss the importance of viewing images from a distance, even from outside the studio. And all the while he is constantly training himself to see in a detached way in order to understand what is, and isn’t working. Time away from a work in progress provides valuable objectivity, of course, and although watching paint dry is yet another cliché, it’s one that is crucial to the

Creative Vale

Sandra Smith creative process. In fact, producing artwork is so personal to him, sales are little more than an add on. “It’s nice when someone buys but selling doesn’t mean a painting is good, and vice versa. Me being satisfied is the arbiter.” High standards? Definitely. But take a look at the quality of Michael Sparks’ landscapes and you, too, will appreciate this artist’s values. www.michaelspark.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

Win a copy of the Oxford Art Book

xford is a stunning and vibrant city with many iconic landmarks. Working on the premise that it would take more than one artist to capture the unique atmosphere of Oxford, Emma Bennett has created The Oxford Art Book: The City Seen Through the Eyes of its Artists. “Oxford is a city that inspires: travellers from across the world, students of all backgrounds, and locals who picnic on its river banks,” says Emma. “This is celebrated by the 65 artists whose work is featured here and have found creativity in its every spire and doorway... “The map in the book encourages you to walk around the city and see how the artists have interpreted the buildings and the sites that inspired them.” Oxford is both a thriving city and a byword for one of the world’s best universities. Its ancient buildings are the wonder of the world, still used and

inhabited by an energetic and passionate student community. From tightly packed Cornmarket street catering for the shoppers of the busy city to lush riverside walks that provide asylum from the bustle of everyday life, to traditional St Giles’s Fair and May Day, attracting visitors from across Oxfordshire and beyond, you will find this delightful book represents them all. A panel of experts (from the Oxford Art Society, Oxford Brooke, the Pitt Rivers Museum and elsewhere) have selected the prints which show: • Quirky hidden gems such as The Eagle and Child (the pub frequented by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis) and the many cafés of the Covered Market • Innovative representations of classic tourist sites such as: the Bodleian Library, the Radcliffe

Camera, the Sheldonian Theatre, Christ Church College, Magdalen College and many more... • The Mini Car Plant and Cowley Road transformed into artworks There is much to wonder at

in this lovely book. Its enthusiasm reveals a passion for both contemporary art and the lovely city of Oxford. It will renew memories and inspire visits and revisits to all its haunts. If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning a copy of the Oxford Art Book, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Which famous building is depicted on the book’s cover, shown left? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by Oct 20th, 2018. l THE OXFORD ART BOOK www.theoxfordartbook.co.uk Published by UIT/Green Books ISBN 978-1-90-686084-4

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Dose up with disco! Fever is set to strike at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre but fear not - Casualty star Richard Winsor is leading the cast in this 70s classic and will be checking the disco beat is steady, whilst turning up the temperature on the dancefloor, with Bee Gees floorfillers such as Stayin’ Alive and Jive Talkin’…

ancer and former Casualty star Richard Winsor (Dr Caleb Knight) is starring in a new stage production of Saturday Night Fever that will be strutting on to the Aylesbury Waterside stage from Tuesday 9th to Saturday 13th October. So we took the chance to ask what it is like to be following in Travolta’s footsteps.

Saturday Night Fever: Tuesday 9th, to Saturday 13th, October. Pic - Pamela Raith Photography from the story and the music of course.

Richard Winsor as Tony Monero

Why did you want to be part of Saturday Night Fever? John Travolta’s performance in the film Saturday Night Fever was what got me dancing as a kid. The disco scenes, his solo, his very masculine energy, it inspired me. I remember all the incredible moments from the film and all its themes. We are taking it back to that dark atmospheric setting. We’re not shying away from that. It is still going to be a stage dance show, but we really are finding the realism in it.

What is Saturday Night Fever about? It’s the story of Tony Manero, a young, enigmatic New Yorker who hasn’t had much opportunity in his life. He’s from a hardworking, down on their luck, Brooklyn family, and works in a paint store for minimal wages. But when he goes to the 2001: Odyssey nightclub, he is king of the dance floor. He’s a different person there. He loves the attention, the sweat, the heat, the women. When the club announces a dance competition with a prize of $1000 and the chance to dance in the discos of Manhattan, it’s a big deal for him. It offers him the chance to escape.

There have been stage versions before. Is this an entirely new production? It’s brand new. Everything is new, apart

The Bee Gees music is one of the most iconic soundtracks in cinema history. How are you using it in this production?

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Tuesday 23rd, to Saturday 27th, October

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

becomes contrived imitation. How is seeing Saturday Night Fever on stage different to watching the film? The sheer immediacy, energy and atmosphere you get from the stage adds to the experience. That coupled with beautifully sung live music and amazing choreography is fantastic. You get moved in a different way in the theatre. As an audience you witness something so present and real it hits you differently.

A Vision of Elvis: Friday 19th, October We wanted to keep the music close to the brilliant original soundtrack. The music supporting the drama and the tragedies as they unfold. We have an electric band guiding us along and the Bee Gees singing the hits, which all adds to the story. Hearing the music played live is amazing. How do you feel about following in the footsteps of John Travolta? It’s a challenge. I want to draw from him, not imitate him. I’ve got so much to play off – the ways of standing, walking and dancing. But I have to play my own reality, otherwise it

How was starring in Casualty? I absolutely loved Casualty. I learned so much there and worked with many great guest artists. I got a lovely big ending too. When I suggested I was ready to try a new challenge elsewhere, they said my character deserved to be killed. I didn’t know how to take that, but it is a huge compliment. They can only do it once every two or three years. Get ready for the disco inferno! Book your tickets for Saturday Night Fever today at atgtickets.com/aylesbury (bkg fee) or call 0844 871 7607 (bkg fee. Calls cost up to7p per min plus your phone company’s access charge). l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Dracula: Thursday, 18th October

Coming up at Aylesbury Waterside Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on... Chris Ramsey Extreme Championship Improv (Second Space) Rick Wakeman Spirit of the Dance Saturday Night Fever

Rip It Up Paul Young Robert Cray Band Dracula

Summer Holiday: Tuesday 23rd, to Saturday 27th, October

A Vision of Elvis Seriously Dead The Goon Show Summer Holiday

Seriously Dead: Saturday 20th, October

Robert Cray Band: Wednesday 17th, October

Royal Marines Association Concert Band

Thu 27th Sept Sat 29th Sept Sat 29th Sept Fri 5th Oct Tue 9th to Sat 13th Oct Sun 14th Oct Mon 15th Oct Wed 17th Oct Thur 18th Oct Fri 19th Oct Sat 20th Oct Sun 21st Oct Tue 23rd to Sat 27th Oct Sun 28th Oct

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

In the kitchen

with Nick Coffer

Stuffed Guinea Fowl

ne of the things I love most about my Weekend Kitchen show is the colourful character of my guests. To put it bluntly, you don’t get to be a top chef by being a shrinking violet. You need charisma, creativity, passion – and eyes wide open to the world around you. Cat Ashton fits this bill. She is originally from Australia and has travelled extensively honing her craft at Michelin starred restaurants. She is also a brilliant character and her vibrant and comforting food reflects her personality. She has just landed in St Albans as head chef at the new Abbey Restaurant and this fancy looking – but easy to execute – dinner party dish is her creation. Guinea fowl stuffed with curry leaf butter with corn & coconut purée & chilli popcorn. Serves 4 You’ll need: 4 large Guinea fowl or chicken supremes (skin on) Curry leaf butter 250g butter, softened 1 clove garlic, finely grated 1 tablespoon fried curry leaves ½ teaspoon curry powder 1 teaspoon sea salt Place all butter ingredients into a food processor. Whip until light and fluffy (note: this recipe makes much more than needed but can last in the fridge for a few weeks and be used for all sorts of dishes).

In the kitchen Nick Coffer

Garlic powder Chilli powder

Stuffing the breast: Using your finger, create an air pocket between the skin of the fowl and the breast meat. Evenly pipe about 2 tablespoons worth of butter inside the cavity and place it in the fridge to set for 1 hour. Season the supremes and heat a little oil in a pan. Cook them skin side down for 2-3 minutes, to get a golden skin. Flip them over and pop them in an oven at 180C/ Gas Mark 4 to finish them off for 6-8 minutes. You want them to feel moist and slightly bouncy, not rock hard.

25ml olive oil 250g corn kernels (tinned or fresh) 200ml coconut milk

Corn and coconut purée 1 shallot, diced 1 clove garlic, chopped

50g corn kernels 10ml rapeseed oil Salt

Heat the oil in a pan and sweat off the shallots for 2 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and a pinch of salt and continue to cook for a further minute. Add the corn and mix well. Fry for 2 minutes and add the coconut milk. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until softened. Purée in a blender until smooth. Serve warm Popcorn

Cook the popcorn as per the packet instructions. Then dust with salt, garlic powder and chilli powder to your desired spice level. To serve; Serve the purée on the plate, topped with the guinea fowl and finish off with the popcorn around the plate. This goes particularly well with spiralised raw yellow courgette, served just between the meat and the purée. Add a few final corn kernels on the plate for decoration. 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.

PACKAGELS L TO SUIT A

S ET DG BU Y INN A ID L O H E H T AT

Funeral Wakes, Christenings, Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, Proms, Reunions, Family Celebrations… In fact, any event that requires a venue.

COMMODATION! AC & K IN R D , D O FO

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Phone 01296 734030 Email: events@hinnaylesbury.com

Celebrate Christmas at The Angel and enjoy the perfect combination of cosy festive atmosphere, superb cooking, attentive service and relaxed ambience, at this delightful, award-winning, 16th Century coaching inn

Christmas bookings now being taken!

Christmas fare party menus (call or see website for details) Lunch - 2 Course: £22.95 pp; Lunch - 3 Course: £25.95 pp; Dinner - 2 Course: £32.50 pp; Dinner - 3 Course: £35.50 pp

Nestled in the picturesque village of Long Crendon on the Buckinghamshire/Oxfordshire boarders, The Angel is a delightful location for an intimate, Christmas celebration - as a couple, with friends or for the whole family! The charming restaurant, decked in traditional Christmas trimmings, brims with character, exposed beams, an open fire and original wattle & daub features and you can be assured of a warm welcome from your hosts and a drop of mulled wine to warm your cockles too. The Angel also offers four en suite double rooms for guests who would like to stay over. www.angelrestaurant.co.uk Restaurant open: For Lunch, Monday - Saturday: 12-2.30pm, Sunday: 12-3pm For Dinner, Monday - Saturday: 7-9.30pm, Sunday Evenings: Closed. Bank Holidays open as usual.

47 Bicester Road, Long Crendon, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9EE

Tel: 01844 208268

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Harvest Moon

Tastefully decorated, authentic Chinese restaurant, serving traditional dishes to suit every taste. Eat-in and takeaway service. Perfect for parties - we can cater for groups of up to 50 people. Harvest Moon, 1 Pump Lane, Thame, Oxon, OX9 3BT Tel: 01844 215272 / 214834 Email: harvestmoonthame@gmail.com Website: www.harvestmoonthame.co.uk

waitrose.com/thame

Community Matters Every month we give our time and money to local communities. We donate ÂŁ1000 to be shared by three good causes that you choose.

Waitrose Thame Supporting the community 64

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Simply unmissable!

The Raymond Blanc Festival of Music is a unique and eagerly anticipated annual event, which brings the world’s finest musicians to perform for a select audience, in the delightful and intimate setting of Great Milton’s 12th century St Mary’s Church, neighbouring Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons...

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and St Mary’s Church

ow in its 27th year, The Raymond Blanc Festival of Music has showcased many internationally acclaimed artists from the worlds of opera, classical music, pop and jazz. This unique event, available to a select few only, is a rare chance to combine an intimate performance by some of the highest calibre artists in the music industry with the very best in cuisine. This October 2nd and 3rd, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons will host this exclusive event in association with Chubb Insurance and offer guests a rare chance to not only watch their favourite artist perform in an intimate setting, but also to join them after to enjoy dinner at Belmond Le Manoir, hosted by Monsieur Blanc. In previous years Raymond Blanc and his team have hosted some of the world’s most celebrated artists and this autumn does not disappoint as Raymond welcomes back internationally acclaimed opera singer Sir Bryn Terfel, accompanied by harpist, Hannah Stone (Tuesday, October 2nd). Together they will perform a selection of his favourite operatic arias and popular songs. The Welsh bass-baritone has established an extraordinary career, performing regularly on the world’s most prestigious concert stages and opera houses, including: the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; the Metropolitan Opera, New York; Opéra National de Paris; Teatro Alla Scala and Zürich Opera.

Imelda May

On Wednesday, October 3rd, for the first time, Monsieur Blanc is delighted to welcome popular Irish singer-songwriter Imelda May. Having released her fifth studio album, Life, Love, Flesh, Blood worldwide last year, she has just finished a UK tour. Imelda May has recorded and performed with, a huge variety of artists including Lou Reed, Jeff Beck, Jools Holland, Smokey Robinson and Tom Jones. The evenings begin with a Champagne Laurent-Perrier reception, served with the most delicate and delicious canapés. After a torch lit walk, performances take place next door to Belmond Le Manoir and then guests return to the restaurant for a celebration dinner, with carefully selected wines, coffee and petits fours. Tickets for The Raymond Blanc Festival of

Sir Bryn Terfel

Hannah Stone

Music are limited and include a Champagne Laurent-Perrier reception upon arrival, the evening’s concert performance, dinner at Belmond Le Manoir, with accompanying wines, coffee and homemade petits fours. Tickets are usually £450 per person but Vale Life Magazine readers can benefit from a special offer rate of only £395 per person by mentioning Vale Life Magazine when booking. For further details and reservations, telephone: 01844 277200 / 01844 278881 or email: events.mqs@belmond.com For further information visit: www.belmond.com/lemanoir l Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Church Road, Great Milton, Oxfordshire, OX44 7PD www.belmond.com/lemanoir Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Renaissance retreat Danesfield House is a beauty to behold. A stunning white renaissance style chĂ˘teau in magnificent grounds, which is now home to one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most luxurious small hotel and spas...

ituated between Marlow and Henley in a glorious, secluded location, high above The Thames, amidst 65 acres of manicured formal gardens, Danesfield House Hotel and Spa is a charming and luxurious country retreat, created some thirty years ago from a magnificent family home and now known as one of the small luxury hotels of the World. The main house, completed in 1901, is a unique dazzling bright white building featuring striking Italian Renaissance style architecture with castle turrets, tall chimney pots and an impressive 30-metre-high clock tower. The site is steeped in history, a first property having been built there in 1664. The current Danesfield House, completed in 1901, was a private family home until 1941, when it was requisitioned as a base to develop the intelligence section of the Royal Air Force. It was known as RAF Medmenham and remained in the hands of the RAF until 1977 when it was bought by Carnation Foods and used as their corporate headquarters. Danesfield House opened as a luxury country house hotel in July 1991. Internally the house oozes charm and character. It exudes an airy lavish feel and boasts an

Versailles Suite set for a wedding reception

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

The Grand Hall impressive vaulted panelled Grand Hall complete with Minstrelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gallery and a large reception room - the Versailles Suite - with original hand-painted murals replicating a dining room in the Palace of Versailles - which can comfortably seat up to one hundred guests for a stunning banquet or wedding celebration.

A beautiful south facing terrace at the rear of the hotel overlooks the established topiary, gardens and commands exceptional views across the valley of the River Thames to the Chiltern Hills beyond. The gardens, which are open to visitors under the National Garden Scheme and come highly commended, are home to rare

Danesfield House offers 79 luxury bedrooms

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Rear of Danesfield House, topiary, terrace and orangery / cloisters exotic trees and plants and renowned for their collection of Pulham Stone. This quintessentially British hotel offers 79 luxury, individually designed bedrooms and suites, some with sumptuously soft and comfortable four-poster beds, amazing views, beautiful private dining rooms and relaxing reception areas and lounges. The hotel also has the added benefit of a luxury Spa for residents and hotel guests. Spa facilities Spa Illuminata Danesfield House is housed in its own wing with a separate entrance and an ambiance of tranquil, timeless luxury. In this sanctuary of elegance and calm, it is easy for guests to escape the busy lifestyles and hectic schedules of modern life.

Spa products range from Decléor to Carita and a wide range of indulgent treatments can be enjoyed from holistic massages, reiki, Indian head massage and anti-aging facials to an array of luxury beauty treatments. The serial award-winning Spa facilities include a beautiful 20-metre swimming pool, with breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside, a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, a fully equipped Matrix gymnasium, Zen Fitness Studio with a variety of fitness classes on offer from Pilates and Chi Cong to Cardio Tone and Yin Yoga, a Pommery POP Nail bar, and eight tranquil treatment rooms, including a VIP Suite to accommodate VIP packages and couples’ treatments. Business meetings Perfectly placed for the M40, M4, M25 and M3 and only 22 miles from Heathrow Airport, Danesfield House provides the perfect opportunity to mix business with pleasure. Affordable corporate luxury starts with a total of eight meeting rooms offering the perfect environment for hosting conferences from two to one hundred delegates. The complimentary WI-FI, bespoke meeting packages and flexibility of meeting rooms and public spaces is designed for creativity within a working environment. In addition, if required, delegates can enjoy outdoor activities provided by specialised team building companies, to include country pursuits and river activities. Meetings and events are managed by a dedicated Operations Team ensuring a smooth, efficient, attentive and super discreet service, complete with high-tech equipment and mouth-watering food and beverage offerings.

For a more private experience the hotel can be hired on an exclusive basis for corporate events, weddings and family occasions, allowing guests the hotel accommodation, public areas and grounds for a minimum of 24 hours. Dining at Danesfield Michelin starred Executive Chef Billy Reid and his brigade combine the very best produce to create a smart and approachable modern British dining experience in the Restaurant at Danesfield House. There is an extensive à la carte menu, offering traditional and modern cuisine, along with a daily market menu. The Restaurant at Danesfield House is a double AA Rosette winner with a new and exciting concept - allowing guests to decide on dining from the same menu choices in the beautiful Oak Room, the sunny Orangery or, if the weather encourages, al fresco dining and afternoon tea on the glorious private Terrace, to make the most of the summer sunshine. The intimate cocktail bar, with its tapestry adorned walls, is the perfect place in which to enjoy an aperitif - maybe one of the sixty cocktails on offer, or your choice from the extensive Condé Nast Johansens awardwinning list of more than three hundred wines, (including 30 exceptional wines by the glass). Danesfield House Hotel and Spa is a luxury country house hotel with a charm and character that cannot be compared, where you can relax and enjoy the finest British hospitality, in a most delightful setting. l Danesfield House, Henley Road, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 2EY T: 01628 891010 E: enquiries@danesfieldhouse.co.uk W: www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

The Seasonal Table

by Virginie Bonvalet

The Seasonal Table get so excited by fresh produce and the endless possibilities that the autumn brings.

The texture, the colour, the variety, the beautiful imperfections that a change of season creates. After such an amazing summer I will celebrate the arrival of Autumn by inviting friends and family to gather around a candlelit table where golden Girolle mushrooms are in abundance and chocolate treats are forgiven, after a walk in the forest; maybe you even caught a falling leaf to bring you luck for the rest of the year... I have created two recipes inspired by autumnal produce that I hope you enjoy has much I do.

1. Clean your mushrooms by wiping them with a cloth. In a sauté pan warm 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and brown the chicken. Set aside and add the onions to the same pan. 2. When the onions become translucent add the pancetta, the thyme and half of the mushrooms. Cook until the pancetta takes on a nice golden colour. Add the stock, cover and cook for 45 minutes. 3. In another frying pan cook the rest of the mushrooms in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the garlic. Keep warm.

3. In another small bowl add your corn flour and pour about 1/2 cup of the warm milk 4. After 45 minutes add to the chicken with the onto it to dissolve the flour completely. Once crème fraîche and stir. Cook for 5 minutes and dissolved add to the milk and stir for about 2 minutes. serve with brown rice.

Chicken & Girolle Friccasée Chocolate pots SERVES 4 - PREP: 20 MIN - COOK: 55 MIN

Chicken thighs 4 Girolles 300g Chestnut mushrooms 300g Onion 1 Smoked pancetta 100g Chicken stock 75 cl Crème fraîche 3 Tsp. Olive oil 3 Tsp. Fresh thyme 3 Sprigs Garlic 2 Cloves 68

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

2. In a separate large bowl whisk the eggs and add the maple syrup slowly.

SERVES 4-6 -PREP: 10 MIN - COOK: 12 MIN

Almond milk 500ml Cornflour 2 Tbsp. 70% Dark chocolate 150g Eggs 2 Maple syrup 2 Tbsp. Roasted flaked almonds 1 Tbsp. 1. In a heavy bottom saucepan warm up your milk - break your chocolate into pieces, add to the milk and warm up gently.

4. Pour the mixture over your eggs and give it a good stir and pour back into the pan. Continue stirring with a wooden spoon for about 10 minutes or until you get the consistency of a thick custard. 5. When thick pour into your ramekins. Let it cool and then leave in the fridge for at least 4 hours. 6. Serve cold with roasted flaked almonds for a little crunch All Photographs, recipes & words © Virginie Web: virginiebonvalet.com Email: bonjour@virginiebonvalet.com Social: @virginie_bonvalet

Christmas on Pound Street

BOOK YOUR EVENT NOW – PARTY MENUS FROM £22.95pp

CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES Christmas Eve: Open All Day Last orders: 6pm for food & 7pm for drinks

Christmas Day: Closed Boxing Day:

Open All Day

Last orders: 6pm for food & 7pm for drinks

New Year’s Eve: Ticket Only New Year’s Day: Closed Re-open Wednesday 2nd January

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY £85pp All inclusive: Drinks, tapas & late night dancing BOOK ONLINE OR CALL 01296 622 092

www.trescorazones.co.uk Please note we will be having our annual break from Sunday 13th January & reopening on 23rd January.

30 p o t p u r o f i ng P r iv at e d i n

e o p le !

Search for us on:

4 POUND STREET / WENDOVER / HP22 6EJ

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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

with Alan Candy

Is it just gobbledygook?! Anti-jargonists target motor manufacturers

ar manufacturers are guilty of confusing drivers with complicated names for common features and simple technology. MotorEasy has revealed some of the most baffling lingo used by car makers as it continues its fight for “plain English” in the UK automotive industry. The car ownership and maintenance service has launched the ‘Lost in Translation’ campaign in a bid to convince garages to ditch the jargon. It is now targeting complex abbreviations and meaningless

Abbreviations like TPMS and ADAS are also commonplace on options lists but mean little to most drivers who are left unaware of how their cars actually work. Here are seven of the most baffling names and terms used by car manufacturers:

Alan Candy product names that leave motorists baffled about what’s actually fitted on their car having previously questioned garage lingo. Audi’s Mechatronics, Vauxhall’s OnStar and Mercedes’ Distronic Plus have all been highlighted for their meaningless names as part of a list compiled by MotorEasy.

Vauxhall OnStar: OnStar is the personal in-car assistant available on new Vauxhalls with crash response, roadside assistance and vehicle diagnostics included. It’s due to be turned off in 2020. Audi Mechatronics The Mechatronic unit is a posh way of saying the brain of VW Group’s DSG gearbox. It operates the clutch and gears and is derived from a

combination of mechanics and electronics. MirrorLink This tech allows you to hook up your mobile phone to your car’s touchscreen with big driver friendly buttons to make calls, use the sat nav and listen to music. ADAS Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems – essentially any of the latest tech that helps a driver. Included under the umbrella are cruise control, lane departure, autonomous emergency braking and parking systems – plus much more. VW Climate Windscreen This is just a complicated way of saying it has a heated

Independent Truck, Van & Car Repairer

Servicing l Inspections l MOT preparation l all makes & models l mercedes specialists l Breakdowns l Recovery service l Class 4/7 MOTs l courtesy vehicles l Mobile on-site servicing l

KM Commercials, Unit D8, Brunel Gate, Telford Close, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8AR Tel: 01296 488898 / 07720 706918 Open Monday to Friday 8am-6pm and Saturdays 8am to 1pm

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Roa d to t h e f u t u r e windscreen. It’s clever because it doesn’t have the tiny wires in the glass that regular systems use but it will still just stop your windshield freezing up. TPMS Tyre Pressure Monitoring System – which has been mandatory on all new cars since 2014. It’ll keep track of your tyre pressures and alert you on the dashboard when anything is wrong. Mercedes Distronic Plus This is the complicated name Mercedes gives to its semiautonomous system. It combines automatic speed regulation with proximity control to a car travelling in front plus helps steering in a lane. MotorEasy founder, Duncan McClure Fisher, said: “Using complex names and abbreviations might sound impressive on an options list but is simply confusing for the everyday driver.

No reservations over new Jeep A rich heritage, advanced technology, quality craftsmanship and premium design have all been brought together to create the new Jeep® Cherokee – the evolution of the most capable mid-sized SUV that’s just as comfortable with the demands of modern city living as it is with adventures off the beaten track. Boasting new, distinguished looks that remain true to the brand’s DNA, and user-friendly technology, the new Cherokee offers greater comfort, connections, safety, convenience and protection. Keep says it is the right choice for a customer who lives “urban adventures”, searching for a vehicle offering both comfort and function, while ensuring benchmark off-road capability and a distinctive design.

“While garages are guilty of using baffling lingo when talking about repairs, car manufacturers must also do better when it comes to explaining what is fitted

For all your vehicle repairs, servicing & MOT testing a first-class service at competitive prices

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

with Alan Candy

The new Jeep Cherokee

With four advanced engines mated to an enhanced and highlyefficient transmission, a choice of three all-wheel drive systems and independent front and rear suspensions the evolution of Cherokee ensures outstanding ride and handling characteristics and benchmark off-road capability.

to a vehicle rather than using meaningless names and terms. “Our ‘Lost in Translation’ campaign is focusing on making the whole industry easier to

The new Jeep Cherokee will be offered in the UK in Limited and Overland trim levels and with the 2.2-litre MultiJet 195 hp engine with automatic transmission. Prices will be announced closer to the car’s introduction. ‘Born to be wild’ will be the chosen theme for the launch.

understand for everyone and to build trust among drivers, manufacturers and mechanics.” MotorEasy’s ‘Lost in Translation’ aims to highlight Continued on page 72

A l l m a k e s s e r v i c e d & R e pa i r e d

BMW & MINI specialist

We are opposite Tesco Broadfields, Aylesbury Family run garage All makes & models l Servicing & repairs l MOT Testing (class 4 & 7) l Tyres l Exhausts l Brakes l Air-Con Regas l 4 Wheel Alignment l Cam belts l l

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2a & 3a Broadfields Court (opposite Tesco), Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8BU Tel: 01296 432552 www.tandeaylesbury.co.uk

T i red o f M a i n Dea ler P r i ce s ? We can service your car and m aint ain your warranty by using genuin e par ts and oil and working to your m anufacturer’s guidelin es. l l l l l l

Labour rate more than 50% less than m ain dealers Quality service and repairs Adv anced diagnostics Local collection and deliver y / Loan car av ailable MOTs/Windscreens/AirCon Recover y av ailable ProTechCars Ltd, Unit 20 Fleet Marston Farm, Fleet Marston, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP18 0PZ Tel: 01296 655799 / Mobile: 07774 604149 Email: service@protechcars.com Website: www.protechcars.com Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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

with Alan Candy

Continued from page 71 how workshops could take simple steps to improve the relationship they have with customers and increase customer loyalty as a result. Have a repair jargon example, garage frustration or simply a question about your car? Add it to the campaign and put it to the MotorEasy engineers using #lostintranslation Footnote: MotorEasy describes itself as a ‘cloud-based garage-toconsumer trading platform’ and ‘SwaS provider… to bring the global DIFM revolution to the automotive sector’! Room for some improvement in clarity a little closer to home there, it seems…

Toyota Yaris Hybrid

Most reliable cars in the What Car? Reliability Survey:

Position Make

Reliability Ranking

=1 Toyota Yaris (2011 - Present)

100.0%

=1 Suzuki Sx4 S-Cross (2013 - Present) 100.0% 3 Nissan Leaf (2011 - 2017)

99.7%

4 Toyota RAV 4X4 (2013 - 2018)

99.6%

99.5%

BMW 3 Series (2005 - 2014)

a Japanese brand, with the top two, the Toyota Yaris and the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross, coming joint Japanese cars remain the most first, having both received 100% dependable, according to the reliability scores. results of the latest What Car? Suzuki tops the overall brand Reliability Survey. reliability rankings for cars Four out of the top five most up to four years old, while the highly ranked vehicles are from Nissan Leaf is the highest ranked

electric vehicle, coming third in the overall model table. The What Car? Reliability Survey 2018 reveals ratings for 159 models spanning 31 brands. Overall, around 30% of the 18,284 survey respondents with cars less than four years old said

their car had suffered at least one fault in the past 12 months. Steve Huntingford Editor of What Car? said: “Reliability is a huge consideration for any prospective car buyer, as your car is likely to be your second biggest monthly expense after mortgage or rent payments. You want your car to last and you don’t want to have to fork out huge amounts to fix faults and keep it running. “Our annual survey has shown that it is Japanese models that continue to dominate the top of the reliability rankings, both for car model and brand rankings.” At the other end of the scale, the Tesla Model S and Land Rover Range Rover didn’t fare as well, coming bottom of the model rankings with a reliability score of 50.9% and second to last with 67.3% respectively. The 2019 classic car auction season is set to begin with a new link-up following the signing of a deal between specialist auction

Telephone:

01844 353388

40 Oakley Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX394ES (to rear of Claremont Automatics) Email: johnnixey@btconnect.com

Telephone: 01844 353388 l Bosch Car Service Centre l MOTs including Class VII (3.5 tonnes) l Servicing, repairs, tyres, exhausts and air

conditioning for cars and light commercials l Diagnostics: we have the most up to date work

shops and equipment in the area

l High ceilings and long ramps enable us to service

long wheelbase vans, campers and trucks

Independent specialists for Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT and Skoda Servicing, repairs, diagnostic testing, MoTs, tyres, air-con specialising in Audi R8, RS & S models. 5A HIGH STREET • WHITCHURCH • BUCKS • HP22 4JU T 01296 641 429 WWW.VASS-TECH.CO.UK

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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

This 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300SL sold for £860,625 at Silverstone Auctions’ Classic Sale this year house Silverstone Auctions and Autosport International. Recognised as one of the UK’s leading classic car auction houses and holder of a number of world record auction prices, Silverstone Auctions will inject a premium auction experience to the show

with a one-day sale of best of breed classic and competition cars on 12th January 2019. The show, which has moved to a larger area within Birmingham’s NEC, returns for its 29th year on 10th-13th January 2019 and is expected to attract

close to 100,000 enthusiasts and trade visitors and more than 700 exhibitors as the motorsport preseason opener. Autosport International, already the world’s largest motorsport show bringing together motorsport, automotive

with Alan Candy

and engineering sectors under one roof, is the definitive international hub and attracts visitors from across the UK and the globe. Silverstone Auctions brings a wealth of classic car and motorsport experience to the event having already held dedicated classic and competition car sales at other major international automotive events. Owners looking to sell their classic or race car at the auction can contact the Silverstone Auctions team ahead of the catalogue close date on Monday 10th December 2018. Silverstone Auctions’ full list of 2019 sales will be announced later this year. To find out more about the Silverstone Auctions Autosport Sale and submit your car for auction, visit: www. silverstoneauctions.com/auctions Get your public entry tickets for Autosport International here: www.theticketfactory.com/ai/ online

DIESEL INJECTION P E R F O R M A N C E

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

o n t h e roa d

with Ron Auchterlonie

Float like a butterfly... KIA Stinger

KIA Stinger

N a motoring world dominated by the letter E – Efficiency, Environment, Economy – Kia have added another one to the pile: E for Excellence. And very possibly Envy. Few cars that have arrived for appraisal in recent months have attracted anything like the open-mouthed admiration that has been the lot of Kia’s first rear wheel drive grand tourer to hit the UK roads, and indeed the rest of Europe. And it really is a very smart piece of equipment, a real move outside the Korean manufacturer’s comfort zone of rational and durable mainstream models that tick the boxes of the motoring masses. Well, this one ticks a few more in terms of sheer style and flashes up a warning that Kia are more than able to serve up a car that is capable of very impressive performance but also one that will unashamedly cosset the occupants.

KIA Stinger 74

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Rob Auchterlonie

ON The Road It’s been a few years in the making , and very extensively tested – prototypes have covered the equivalent of 27 times round the Equator, with extreme climate testing in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and North and South America. So it should cope admirably with anything you or I throw at it. A quick look at the relevant facts will alert you to the small but very important detail that the Kia Stinger has that classic rear drive set-up. You know, the one where if your exuberance exceeds your ability, the rear tends to try and swap positions with the front.

If your only experience is with front wheel drive machinery then prepare for squeaky bum time – it can be an exhilarating and sobering experience at the same time. In range topping V6 twin turbo guise as sampled here it’s capable of 0-60 in 4.7 seconds and a 168mph top end. The figures on the heads up display in front of you certainly head upwards very rapidly! Or you could opt for the 2.2 CRDi engine with its 48.7mpg combined consumption, giving it a theoretical range of 600 miles plus. Slotted neatly in between in

the five version UK lineup is the 2.0 T-GDI giving the best of both worlds: 0-60 in 5.8 and 35.8mpg. What you’re guaranteed to get with every version are the sleek lines of a fastback-style five door gran turismo that stretches over 4830mm from tip to tail.

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

o n t h e roa d

with Ron Auchterlonie KIA Stinger

The battleship grey paint finish here is an eye catcher, as is the subtle way the tops of the doors blend into the roof trim that runs

from the bottom of the A pillar all the way to the bottom of the rear hatch glass. Long bonnet, short front

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overhang, long wheelbase, cabin towards the rear, and long rear overhang are classic gran turismo traits. Front head and legroom is decent enough, and there’s enough room for a couple of tall passengers in the back too. And the overall ambiance of the cabin is up to the mark too, with its brushed aluminium, gloss black panels, neatly crafted and grouped clear instrumentation and soft nappa leather seats. You get so much kit as standard that the only option to tick is metallic paint, but personally I’d stick with the stunning grey. It is a very fast car indeed, but if you soften up the driving modes it becomes a very accomplished

long distance cruiser. The very best of both worlds. FOR: true mile munching GT AGAINST: thirst FASTFACTS: Kia Stinger 3.3 T-GDi V6 GT S £40,495 3342cc six cylinder 24 valve, 365bhp, 510Nm Eight speed automatic 0-60mph 4.7secs, top speed 168mph Fuel – urban 20.8, extra urban 36.2, combined 28.5 CO2 225g/km will it fit the garage? 4830/1870/1400 (l/w/h) 7 year/100,000 mile warranty.

Great savings for YOU! @ RCP Service Centre MOTs £44.85

(when you quote ‘Vale Life Magazine’)

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workshop@rcpservices.co.uk RCP Service Centre Ltd, Unit 15, Camp Industrial Estate, Milton Common, Nr Thame, OX9 2NP Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

s l ow c h i lt e r n s

by Neil Matthews

Vintage year for cars

e’re a nation of car lovers. Whether it’s the speed of Formula 1, or the grace and style of classic cars, there’s something marvellous about motors. And this summer I’ve been enjoying both, in a couple of surprising locations… Two hundred yards down a turning near a war memorial, in an inconspicuous barn, lies the Aston Martin Heritage Museum (Drayton St Leonard, nr Watlington OX10 7BG; www.amht.org.uk; open 10am-4.30pm, Mon to Fri, plus 1st and 3rd Saturday each month). You can get up close to 100 years of motoring history here: the oldest model, the A3, built in 1921; the 007 connection, which started with the DB5 that Sean Connery drove in Goldfinger; a Vanquish Volante, a recent joint venture with Red Bull; and model Aston Martins, racing overalls, trophies and other items.

Cars in the Claydons at Claydon Manor There’s a nostalgia trip of a different type at Claydon House (Middle Claydon nr Buckingham MK18 2EY; open Mar-Oct, 11am-5pm, Sat to Wed; house is National Trust, but gardens are privately owned). The house, an 18th-century attempt to build a rival to Stowe, is well worth a look. But on the first weekend in

September, the splendid gardens are the star as they host Cars in the Claydons. The juxtaposition of perfectly laid out lawns and flower beds with stylish and unusual cars of yesteryear is quite something. It’s a joy to wander round, with a tub of Oliphant and Pomeroy ice cream, admiring the Rolls Royces, the racing cars and plenty more. My favourites were the orange threewheeler Bond Bug, in the middle of the maze, and the blue classic Mini in the Florence Nightingale Centenary Garden (Florence was sister-in-law to one of Claydon’s owners). Other classic and vintage car events that come up locally through the year include: • Chiltern Hills Vintage Vehicle Rally - 3rd Sunday in May (www. chilternhillsrally.org.uk) at Weedon Park, nr Aylesbury; • Supercar Sunday at Stonor Park - 3rd Sunday in May (nr

Neil Matthews

Slow Chilterns

Henley-on-Thames RG9 6HF; www.stonor.com) • Chearsley Classic and Vintage Fun Day - 2nd Sunday in September – (Chearsley Cricket Club, Winchendon Road, Chearsley HP18 0DW; ccvfd.co.uk) • The famous Kop Hill Climb Festival - 3rd weekend in September (www.kophillclimb.org. uk) nr Princes Risborough, an event which began in 1910 and raises thousands of pounds each year for charities. l Neil Matthews’ book Slow Travel: the Chilterns and the Thames Valley, co-written with his wife Helen, is published by Bradt Travel Guides in early 2019. See slowchilterns.com to find out more.

Tel: 01844 274652

Email: info@risboroughservicecentre.co.uk

www.risboroughservicecentre.co.uk Chinnor Road, Bledlow, Princes Risborough, Bucks HP27 9PH

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03/11/2012 09:32

Lodge Mazda revs up for rally

ylesbury-based Lodge Garage Mazda is gearing up to take part in The Two Ball Banger Lakes Rally and raise vital funds for the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. Lodge staff members will complete the two-day charity challenge in heritage Mazda models to raise money for the local charity, which provides a range of palliative and end-of-life care services for people with lifelimiting illnesses. Two teams from the Bicester Road dealership have entered September’s rally, which will cover some of the most scenic and challenging roads and mountain passes in the Lake District. The ‘Mazda Monkeys’ team will compete in a Mazda MX-5 MK2, while ‘Team AWOL’ will be enjoying an original MK1 Mazda MX-5. Both cars are perfect for cruising Cumbria’s finest driving roads. “Florence Nightingale Hospice provides incredible care,” says Lodge Garage Mazda Dealer Principal Floyd Timms, “ We want to help them continue their exceptional range of services, so

The Lodge teams’ heritage Mazdas decided to take part in this year’s Two Ball Banger Lakes Rally and help support this worthwhile cause. Our teams are very excited to be driving heritage Mazda models in this treasure-hunt style rally and want to raise as much money as possible for the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity through our JustGiving page, so please help if you can.” Donations are welcome via the Lodge Garage Mazda JustGiving

page: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/Lodge-Garage All money donated will be sent directly to the charity. The Two Ball Banger Lakes Rally is a two-day driving adventure with daily challenges to test the teams driving, teamwork and navigational skills, with daily cash prizes to compete for. Jo Turner, Head of Fundraising at Florence Nightingale Hospice

Charity said: “This is a really unusual challenge and we are delighted and grateful that an important local business is raising money for the hospice. Most people in the community will have some sort of connection with the hospice at some point - hospice care is becoming more and more important in our growing community. This kind of fundraising support is invaluable to maintain the care we provide. We can’t wait to hear how it goes for the Lodge Garage Mazda teams come the end of September!” For more information about the Two Ball Banger Lakes Rally visit www.twoballbangerrally.co.uk and click on the Lakes Route in the routes menu. For more about Lodge Garage Mazda’s entry into the rally, call: 01296 770245, visit the dealership on Bicester Road in Kingswood, or go to: www.lodgegarage-mazda.co.uk. l Lodge Garage Mazda, Bicester Road, Kingswood, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0QJ T: 01296 752 312 W: www.lodgegarage-mazda.co.uk

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The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the 2018 Mazda CX-5 range: Urban 36.2 (7.8) - 51.4 (5.5), Extra Urban 47.9 (5.9) 62.3 (4.5), Combined 42.8 (6.6) - 57.6 (4.9). CO2 emissions (g/km) 150 – 128. Vehicles are homologated in accordance with the new type approval procedure WLTP (Regulation (EU) 2017/1151; Regulation (EC) 715/2007). To provide comparability the referred values are NEDC values determined in line with Implementation Regulation (EU) 2017/1153. Retail sales only. Subject to availability at participating dealers only on vehicles registered between 01.07.18 and 30.09.18. T&C apply. *0% APR Mazda Conditional Sale available on all new Mazda models. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR. Model shown: Mazda CX-5 150ps 2WD Sport Nav+, OTR from £29,695. Model shown features optional Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint (£800). OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. °Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to print. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Lodge Garage, trading as Lodge Garage Mazda is a credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction

36523_bs196077_CX-5_Lodge Garage_Press Ad_125x190 2.indd 1

77 Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018 12:34 16/08/2018

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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Vale Life : Sept/Oct 2018

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Vale Life Magazine Sept/Oct 2018

Articles inside

Starry Nights

Starry Nights