Vale Life Magazine June-July 2012 by Charlie Trott

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Vale Life

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June/July 2012 See our website at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Free local listings for events and businesses

Inside:

Keep Cool & Carry On

Top tips for Summer interiors

New kids in town

Boutique’s fine lines in designer jewellery

Taking the plunge

Wet room chic? Call in the specialists

All the world’s a stage

Theatre school’s lessons for life

Penny, Ruby, Matt and much, much more...

w Arsenal Book w dinner for Two at the Seven Stars w 101 Beer Days Out w w limited edition Quentin Blake print w secret London Guide w solar lights w

ating 10 Y ea r

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2 - 2012

For all your stone needs... Chelsea Flower Show 2012

Stoneworld is proud to have supplied the stone for David Harberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s display at Chelsea Flower Show this year. David has an international reputation for creating innovative, contemporary custom-built designs incorporating sundials, water features and sculptures. Raj Green handcut paving, setts and matching walling stone was used, with Buff Mellow stone chips spread amongst the greenery.

Internal stone at our Gallery in Thame (pictured left) The Gallery Stoneworld, 43A Upper High Street, Thame, Oxon, OX9 2DW. Tel: 01844 279307 Email: sales@stoneworld.co.uk

External stone at Great Milton and Bracknell Views Farm, Great Milton, Oxon, OX44 7NW. Tel: 01844 279274 Email: sales@stoneworld.co.uk

Stoneworld is a family-run, independent company offering help and advice on all aspects of stone purchase and use

Our extensive range includes: l Over 30 different natural stone paving options l Variety of finishes including hand cut, tumbled, sawn and honed l Natural stone block paving l Cobbles and pebbles l Over 50 different ornamental gravels l Rockery stone l Natural stone walling l Feature stones and water features l Swimming pool edging l Range of interior stone for floors, walls, worktops l Bespoke digital masonary service l Bespoke fireplaces and hearths

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Specialists in beds and bedroom furniture Viewing by appointment Crendon Furniture Outlet

Unit 4C, Drakes Drive, Long Crendon Industrial Estate Long Crendon, Bucks, HP18 9BA

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Pinefinders Old Pine Furniture Warehouse is situated between Oxford and Aylesbury in the small village of Haddenham, just outside the market town of Thame. Probably the largest old pine shop in the region, we sell beautifully restored genuine antique pine furniture, which we import from all over Europe. All of our furniture can be seen in our warehouse and on our website. We are committed to keeping our website up to date, our prices as low as possible, and can deliver anywhere in the UK. We are open Fridays 10am - 4pm, Saturdays 10am - 5pm, and any other time by appointment.

Pinefinders Old Pine Furniture Warehouse, Unit 7 Alexander House, Thame Rd Industrial Est, Haddenham, Aylesbury, Bucks HP17 8BZ Tel: 01844 291231 Website: www.pinefinders.co.uk

Omega Homestyle are focused on delivering the best quality with over 50 years knowledge and experience in the window industry. We are able to offer you a comprehensive range of products to suit all your requirements.

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info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk Competitive pricing info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk throughout the year

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Great rates Amazing results To advertise in Vale Life Magazine Call Charlie on 07702 006218

Spread the word across The Vale: see: www.vale-life.co.uk for details

8 10

Hidden treasure

Bit of a pain?

Don’t call me scarf face

Tell them who you are

Going places

New kids in town

Keep on moving

Beauty spot

Old favourite

Small town girl

All the world’s a stage

Keep cool and carry on

Catch of the day

Promising start

So Henley!

Taking the plunge

Songs of the south

Flying start

Mad for it!

Emma Ward explores the Bucks Museum Alex Gardner’s Wardrobe Wonderings

12 Salon’s secret 15 16 18 20 26 28 31

Hair and clothes, it’s a one-stop shop Handmade jewellery at White Hart Studio Gel-ebrity nails at Body & Soul Penny Harper’s on her marks

Homes and interiors with Melanie Parr Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust Tap in to the bathroom experts Aylesbury’s new care providers

Hands-on help from family practice Graphics boys know how to get noticed 4x4 specialists shift up a gear Ready for that Summer roadtrip Dandy Dick is a bit of a farce Theatre school gives lessons for life Summer menu is seasonal triumph Messing about by the river Fabulous line up for friendliest festival Waddesdon’s crazy for music and dance

Sod the economic climate it’s the weather that’s ruining things

pologies for being so dull as to bring up the weather but it has been exceptionally wet of late and our commiserations go out to all those who have toiled long and hard to put on events, only to have them postponed or cancelled at the eleventh hour because of soggy ground or storm warnings. The Grendon Festival has been put off until September 7th & 8th (www.grendonfestival. co.uk) and The Thame Duck Race has been rescheduled for Sunday, July 15th. Charlbury’s Riverside Festival has been postponed until Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th July, (www.riversidefestival.charlbury.com) and the Chiltern Hills Vintage Vehicle Rally at Aston Clinton is hoping to reschedule for Sunday, September 16 (details on 01296 631666/651283 or see: www.chilternhillsrally.org.uk). Happily many braved the storms and still managed to enjoy the Queen’s Jubilee

ongratulations to the following May/June edition competition winners! Hopefully your prizes will have arrived by now, let us know if not. Commiserations to those who weren’t so lucky - read on though for more

Celebrations. The picture right, taken in Waddesdon by Pete Griffith shows their Jubilee queen enjoying her afternoon with a very special guest - and you thought HRH was freezing her royal thermals off on The River Thames! Across the country people got together with neighbours they’d never met before and had such a jolly time, there’s much talk of keeping in touch and getting together again very soon. As a community event on a national scale it worked brilliantly, forging new friendships and showing that even in this digital age when social interaction usually takes place online or via texts, emails and handheld devices, there’s nothing like getting together for a bevvy and a chin-wag. As the song says: ‘Oh wouldn’t it be nice to get on wiv me neighbours?’ well yes it was.

Charlie

Charlie Trott: editor@vale-life.co.uk

competitions inside this edition, including the chance to win: a Limited Edition Quentin Blake Print; Dinner for Two at The Seven Stars, Dinton; a copy of 101 Beer Days Out; an Arsenal book, Solar Bottle Lights, Secret London book. Last issue’s prizewinners were:

Raymond Blanc Cookery School Course: Rebecca Briant, Longwick Dinner for two at The Five Arrows: Melanie Bird, Wendover Crazy Photography book: Jo Stevens, Thame Mia Tui Amelia bag:

Anne Stonehewer, Monks Risborough Mumlin: Christine Richardson, North Marston; Alexandra Reading, Whitchurch; Bridget Egglesfield, Aston Clinton Waddesdon Country Show Tickets: Alex Barter, Holton; Sarah Worrow, Aylesbury

Front cover picture: Classic cars parading along the Cornmarket, past Thame Town Hall, as part of the Thame Carnival procession Vale Life Magazine is designed and published by House of Mouse, 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 : June/July 2012

When people think of Aylesbury, most picture Friars Square Shopping Centre, Market Square or Kingsbury with its fountains, but there are other less obvious treasures to be found in the town centre, says Emma Ward... Bucks County Museum with St Mary’s Church behind

Celebrate Love Your Local Market Fortnight Sat 23 June - Sat 7 July Market Square, Aylesbury Sat 23 June: Music on the market. Tues 26 June: 9am - 2pm - Love Your Local Farmers’ Market, with free gardening workshops PLUS Love Your Local Antique Market, with free valuations by expert John Bly, 11am - 2pm. Sat 30 June: 11am - 3pm - Love Your Local Market Day, with street entertainment, live music, face painting and a classic car in Market Square PLUS Summer Craft Market in Kingsbury, 10am - 3pm. Tues 3 July: 12 noon - 2pm - Love Your Local Antique Market. Going, going, gone! Auction with John Dickins. Sat 7 July: Aylesbury Market joins in the Roald Dahl Parade with live music. Every Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat. 8

Vale Life : June/July 2012

he area around St. Mary’s Church is one of the few parts of Aylesbury which Roald Dahl Museum remains unchanged by the large scale developments of the stand guard at the front. His style 1960s and 70s. To walk the narrow, is seen at its best in the ‘Georgian cobbled streets is to step back in Room’, which, until 15th Septemtime to a quieter, gentler age and ber, is playing host to an exhibition the dainty cottages of St. Mary’s on the only two British monarchs Square are a world away from to have celebrated 60 years on the Aylesbury’s bustling retail parks. throne: Queen Victoria and Queen More of the town’s history can Elizabeth II. be found at the Buckinghamshire Along with these Georgian renoCounty Museum, on Church Street vations came a coach house, built by St Mary’s, pictured left. While around 1755, which now makes up the museum explores Aylesbury a substantial part of the popular Vale’s heritage Roald Dahl Children’s through its various Gallery. exhibitions, the Since its foundation buildings and garby the Buckinghamshire dens also have their Archaeological Society own tales to tell of in the 1850s the Muthe town’s illustrious seum has collected and past. recorded the cultural Medieval wall painting There has been a and natural history of building on the Museum site since Buckinghamshire communities. It the late fifteenth century, part of is sited in the building that housed which can still be seen in the ‘Tudor Aylesbury Grammar School from House’ area of the museum. This 1720 until 1907, and first opened was renovated in the 1700s while its doors to the public in 1908. The owned by Hugh Barker Bell, who Buckinghamshire Archaeological put a Georgian style front on the Society managed the Museum until building. He was also most likely the early 1950s when rising running responsible for the iron railings that costs necessitated a partnership Bucks County Museum rear and gardens

Vale Life : June/July 2012

“Even though the museum is on people’s doorsteps, being tucked away as it is, not everyone realises it is here,” says David, “but it really has something for everyone.” Ammonite David started his professional life as a primary school teacher, so he always considers all age groups when putting together exhibitions, and the museum caters well for families and of course The Roald Dahl section is very entertaining for young children, with lots of handson fun and activities. The Museum runs a varied programme of events for adults, such as ‘Wonders of the Human Heart’ Cubitt car on June 28th, which includes a talk with the County Council which by pathologist Dr Esther Youd, and still manages the Museum and its a Kop Hill Climb evening event on collections. A substantial refurbishAugust 23rd which is to showcase ment of the Museum the museum’s 1920s in the 1990s, which Cubitt car as well as two included the building Aston Martins, in the of a fine, modern art beautiful setting of the gallery and the opening museum garden. of the Roald Dahl For those who would Children’s Gallery, saw like to investigate the lothe Museum brought cal area a little more, the up-to-date. museum runs half hour Works of art long lunchtime talks have always been an based on local history, important part of the and art. Fallen Tree by archaeology Museum’s collecting To enquire about, or John Nash policy. Buckinghamshire’s book for one of these topographical prints and drawings events please phone the museum on of the County (the collection con01296 331441. tains nearly 2,500) were particularly Alternatively, pop in to discover prized by the Archaeological Society the museum, and it’s amazing hisas a record of changing landscapes tory, even if you only have half and buildings. an hour to spare – you might be David Erskine, who has been pleasantly surprised! exhibitions manager at the museum since 1994, describes the museum as l Bucks County Museum, Church ‘a hidden gem which can be enjoyed Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2QP Tel: 01296 331441 even if you only have half an hour Email: museum@buckscc.gov.uk to spare’ and what’s more it is free Website: www.buckscc.gov.uk/ what more excuse do you need??! museum Fun for families at Bucks County Museum

Win a limited edition Quentin Blake print

o coincide with the Roald Dahl Festival in Aylesbury’s Market Square on Saturday, July 5th, a little bird told me gallery in Wendover would like to invite you to enter a competition to win a limited, collectors edition print by Quentin Blake. Quentin illustrated many of Roald Dahl’s books for children including ‘The Enormous Crocodile’, ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ and ‘Matilda’. a little bird told me gallery specializes in contemporary children’s illustration, mostly limited edition prints, with prices to suit every pocket. The Quentin Blake prints are very popular as are the ‘Miffy’ prints by Dick Bruna and ‘Guess how much I love you’ by Anita Jeram. The gallery also promotes up and coming artists like Stephen Hanson, who works for Aardman Animations, creators of Wallace & Gromit and in his spare time creates great images of Toby his dog. They can’t help but make you smile! Framing enhances any painting or print and a little bird told me gallery can provide bespoke framing whatever your requirements. With 14 years of framing

£5 off

experience you can be sure of a professional job. As well as art the gallery stocks a wide range of interesting cards and books. It is open six days a week (closed Mondays) and anyone is welcome to go in for a good browse, so pop over soon and see what’s new! If you would like to be in with a chance of winning a limited edition print by Quentin Blake simply email your name, address and telephone number along with the answer to the following question to: editor@ vale-life.co.uk Which Buckinghamshire village did Roald Dahl live in from 1954? l a little bird told me gallery, The Barn Courtyard, 25 The High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU (Behind Antiques at Wendover) Tel: 07854 787733 Open Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm and Sun: 11am-4pm Email: info@alittlebirdtoldme gallery.com Website: www.alittlebirdtoldme gallery.com

£5 Village Wines off Superb selection of Fine Wines and Champagnes at unbeatable prices single malt whisky, port, beers, lagers and quality English ales.

£5 off with this voucher when

you spend £50 or more on drinks during July 2012

Tel: 01442 827117 8 Miswell Lane, Tring, Herts, HP23 4BX

Open: Mon-Thur 2pm-11pm, Fri/Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 12pm-10.30pm Vale Life : June/July 2012

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Wardrobe wonderings... Alex Gardner’s

Alex Gardner

Fashion guru Alex Gardner passes on tips and tricks for looking your best, plus the latest news on our high street trends...

his being the first time I have stopped by at Vale Life Magazine, I believe it only polite to introduce myself. My name is Alex and I, (deep breath), am a fashion addict... I am also a trained journalist with a background in fashion and lifestyle magazines. I currently create fashion and beauty content for various outlets and blog my own fashion adventures at http://the-fashion-bandit. blogspot.com I have also written a weekly fashion column for the Milton Keynes Citizen, so, fear not, you are in safe hands! This month I want to talk to you about Silk scarf £65 Timney at House of Fraser one of my wardrobe staples, a most overlooked and under-valued accessory - the hum- paired with some big sunglasses. ble scarf. It’s June, so you can be sure I am 2. The Turban: the ‘fashion turban’ has not talking about a big woolly scarf, knitted by enjoyed several revivals over the years, and granny or Urban Outfitters. No, I am talking there are many ways to tie them, incorporatsilky, light and ladylike scarves. ing knots, twists and lots of tucking - check These scarves come in all shapes and sizes, YouTube for tutorials. printed or plain, cotton, polyester or silk and 3. The cravat: fold and tuck in the neck of can be worn in a multitude of ways. a crisp white shirt to add a splash of colour There is something romantically old fashand prove your fashion credentials. ioned about a scarf, they remind me of golden 4. The tie-on: tie your scarf to your faage Hollywood stars such as Grace Kelly and vourite bag to bring it up to date quicker than Marilyn Monroe, who were often pictured you can say ‘silk worm’. looking glamorously chic in a head scarf. 5. The big bow: fashion into a (you Mass produced scarves were particularly guessed it) big bow, and wear loosely around popular in the 40s, not as a fashion stateyour neck, or pin to a jacket to create a more ment though, more as a necessity, adorning avant-garde look! the heads of women working in factories to Check your local fashion boutiques, high keep their hair from getting caught up in the street stores and vintage shops for a design machinery! Since then the scarf has moved in that takes your fancy, and if you want to be and out of fashion, with different prints and fashion-forward opt for a classic gold-chain, styles taking turns at being the ‘must-have’. or a fun animal, print. I remember first wearing a beautiful red and And one last thought - the best thing about white, printed, floral, silk scarf, my mum gave a silk scarf - they can turn even the worst bad me from her collection. To begin with I wore hair day into your most glamorous moment. it draped around my neck, but as a teenager As Audrey Hepburn once said: ‘When I wear with a limited wardrobe, I soon began to a silk scarf, I feel so definitely like a woman, a find other ways to make the most of my new beautiful woman.’ accessory. Now, ten years and 40-something scarves later, the ways I wear them have also l Alexandra Gardner is a freelance journalist multiplied. If you are looking to purchase a and stylist based in Buckinghamshire. Visit her Creative Kick website to find out more about scarf, a large square silk one is the most versathe services she offers, including commercial tile, and here are my top five ways to wear it: copywriting: www.creativekick.moonfruit.com 1. The Retro: tie to create a bandana look, Follow Alex’s fashion adventures via her knotted above your head and covering most Fashion Bandit blog at: of your hair or tied under your chin and www.the-fashion-bandit.blogspot.co.uk Leopard and chain Scarf, £13, River Island

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Assorted scarves, The Boutique, see page 12

Simpson Scarf £35 Monsoon

Tribal print scarf (worn as a head scarf) £6.99 New Look

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w Wall art w Clocks w Candles w Lamps w Mirrors w Vases w Ornaments w Homeware w Prints w w Fireplace sets w Signs w Furniture w Kitchen & Dining w Gifts w Cards w Mats w Handcrafted Fairtrade Products w

Vale Life : June/July 2012

“

Villagers will know Haddenham hairdresser, Salon 7, despite its unassuming position, on Banks Parade. But only the sharp-eyed few will have spotted The Boutique - the salon’s new in-store fashion section full of stylish clothing for ladies and a selection of glamorous party dresses...

e’ve been here for seven years now,” says Joanne Stevens owner of Salon 7 Hair salon, “but we only introduced clothing about six months ago. I had some spare space - the main salon is quite big and there’s another room at the back - so we thought it would be a nice idea to sell some clothes to complement our hairdressing. “We stock everyday fashion, for ladies rather than teens, smart and casual wear and some party frocks, prom dresses and ball gowns too. “I buy in small quantities, mostly from London, although we stock some German labels too. I keep a close eye on the latest trends, so the stock is constantly changing. Some of our ball gowns are copies of celebrity dresses, such as an Angelina Jolie ‘black carpet’ number, which is very slinky. We have jewellery, bags, scarves and accessories too. We’ve got a little bit of everything really. “It’s been going down well, especially when the sun comes out as we’ve some lovely Summer wear, lightweight dresses, tops and tunics.” Joanne is originally from Chearsley but moved to Haddenham in her teens. She had a Saturday job at a local salon and when she left school, trained as a hairdresser at Aylesbury College. She worked for a couple of local salons before taking a break to bring up her family. She and husband Darren, who looks after the financial side of Salon 7 and works

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Joanne Stevens in the City, have three sons and a daughter. The couple met through friends and were married 17 years ago. While the children were growing up Joanne worked freelance, as a mobile hairdresser and then from a salon built on the side of her Haddenham home. In 2005 she opened Salon 7 at Number 7, Banks Parade, Haddenham. “I had two stylists and an apprentice when I started,” says Joanne, “I did increase to about five at one time but I prefer it now. I’ve got a small friendly team who are good and reliable hairdressers. We’re open Tuesday to Saturday and cater for all of the family. We also cater for weddings and special occasion hair. We have a special offer running at the moment,

so that anyone who buys an evening dress can have a free hair-up styling, ready for their glamorous evening out! “We are slightly tucked away here, which reduces walk-by business - most of our customers come from recommendation and word of mouth. We really like it here though and I’m very much enjoying running The Boutique alongside the hair salon. “Anyone is welcome to pop in for a browse or to try things on. We even hold the occasional fashion show, so let us know if you’d like to come along.” l The Boutique, Salon 7, 7 Banks Parade Haddenham, Buckinghamshire HP17 8ED Tel: 01844 295804

l Column: Hero Brown

The urban guide

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Why not make a positive decision to change your life and contact me today.

’m so excited by this summer, not only because I’m partial to a good street party and have a bit of a crush on Usain Bolt but because finally we’re celebrating being British again. Hurray! Being British is great! It feels a long time since we’ve been able to say or show that without irony. I think it’s brilliant that my three year old knows what a Union Jack is. That my five year old can draw one. And finally, my nine year old, after years of wilfully aggravating me by refusing to support British sports teams in favour of his father’s New Zealand (or if the kiwis are knocked out, any other country but our’s), has quietly readopted the UK. Massive questions such as ‘what does it mean to be British?’ (my brain is HURTING!!) I’ll save for others, but we all know that the British sense of humour, creativity and entrepreneurialism have never been in doubt. What has changed is that the current recession has forced us to evaluate what’s important in our lives. Community, localism, fairness, quality – these are the issues we care about now, and I see it first hand at Muddy Stilettos with the people I meet and the businesses they pursue. I’m thinking about the gorgeous concept store FROM in Thame that actively searches for, recognises and promotes talented local producers (see their gorgeous

FROM bunting bunting here); Vale Harvest (valeharvest.weebly.com), a fantastic new online collective that has responded to our growing unease at supermarket fodder by helping to publicise and support local food producers; excellent restaurants like The Clifden Arms at Worminghall (www.theclifdenarms.com) and The The Crown at Sydenham (www. crownsydenham.co.uk) that focus on quality and service at sensible prices; and bijoux gift and craft emporiums like Wallace’s Home Boutique, Thame and the White Hart Studio, Haddenham which tap into our desire for nostalgia, individuality and comfort. Blimey, the very concept of Muddy Stilettos thrives because people are embracing where they live and looking for their kicks locally. Whether it’s a Michelinstarred restaurant or a brand new boutique, a cosy café or an exhilarating walk, there’s no need to look elsewhere, it’s all here. The best of British, right on your doorstep.

Expert fitting into awkward spaces sssincluding under sloping ceilings Call for a brochure or to arrange a sssfree no obligation survey 01525 854142

43b Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2NQ Tel: 01296 423233 / 0800 298 8514 Email: suesflowers2@hotmail.com www.suesflowers.co.uk w Weddings w Corporate w Special Occasions w w Birthdays Parties w Sympathy w Gifts w w Soft Toys w Wines and Champagne w Innovative, contemporary and traditional designs Vale Life : June/July 2012

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

Bracelet by Anna K Baldwin

ariety is the spice of life, they say. Mix it up, something for everyone, it would be a dull old world if we were all the same... that’s why we love our local independent boutiques. They are a break from the norm, a breath of fresh air along the stifling straightjacket of our homogenised high streets. It’s not always easy being different though, it takes a bit of effort sourcing those exciting new brands and little known labels, not to mention an eye for the new and a feel for the local pulse. At Haddenham’s White Hart Studio the stock is a constant flow of seasonal delights, from clever gift ideas to fabulous fashions, enticing accessories and beautiful trinkets. Jane has recently returned from a trip to The British Art Trade Fair in Harrogate and has not let us down. Her cabinets are sparkling with exciting designs by new artists: Judith Brown’s vintage style pieces made with mother of pearl, silver wire lace and reclaimed haberdashery are fascinating, gorgeous and inexpensive, while Anna K Baldwin is a locally based designer making exquisite handmade silver and gold jewellery inspired by natural forms and textures. And check out the funky, stylish Tribal Steel range of men and women’s leather bracelets and bangles, they are fun, chic and very now - and best of all, look great on wrists of all ages!

Jewellery by Judith Brown

l White Hart Studio, 15 Churchway, Haddenham, HP17 8AB Tel: 01844 292308 Open Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun: 11am-4pm Website: www.whitehartstudio.com www.facebook.com/WhiteHartStudio

Fine pottery by Vanessa Conyers

Vale Life : Feb/Mar 2012

Vale Life : June/July 2012

For a fab long-lasting summer manicure, book into Aylesbury’s Body & Soul and treat your nails to the latest gel technology

n the past couple of years, nails have can have gel nails in double-quick time, and become the big beauty story. Nail art, they’re quicker to remove when you want to nail wraps, nail gels... there are so many try out the next fabulous colour. new and exciting ways to decorate your Laura starts off the treatment by cleaning talons. “We were attracted to using the new the nails, filing, pushing back cuticles and OPI GelColors because of the wide range of applying Bond Aid, an OPI nail primer. The fashionable colours,” explains friendly beauty base coat is applied first and this is the only therapist and salon owner Laura Gilbey. part of the system that includes a nail lacquer, Laura’s salon, Body & Soul, moved from Fairwhich bonds to the nail. Thirty seconds under ford Leys to Bedgrove in Aylesbury last year, the slick LED light and two coats of colour and the long-lasting gel nails have proved one are applied, with another 30 seconds under of her most popular treatments. the lamp between each. Finally the top coat Gel nails involve painting a varnish-like and the last 30 seconds under the lamp seal substance onto nails and ‘curing’ them under the nail. To finish, a nail cleanser is used and a UV lamp, resulting in polish that has a cuticle oil applied. The result is an incredwear-life far longer than your ibly durable manicure with a average - typically a couple flawless and instantly dry GelColor is perfect of weeks, chip-free. colour that will last for at for going on holiday, for big least two weeks, no chips, When Body & Soul opened on Westmorland no scuffs and no fade. events... or for looking Avenue in March 2011, When you want to regorgeous every day Laura, who has been a move your GelColor, some beauty therapist for 18 years, foil, cotton wool and acetone is and her team, began offering CND Shelused for 10 minutes to soak it off. If you lac manicures. These extended-wear polishes are trying to grow your nails, the good news is proved so popular that when OPI launched that the system is non-damaging and will give its GelColor range earlier this year, Laura your nails a couple of weeks of growing time, couldn’t wait to try it. while you have beautifully glamorous nails. So what is different about the OPI GelPerfect for going on holiday, for big events… Color manicure? Firstly, unlike Shellac, this is or for looking gorgeous every day. not a nail lacquer and gel hybrid, it is a pure gel. OPI fans might have already had an OPI Axxium manicure, which is also a gel system, but whereas each coat requires a couple of minutes under a UV lamp to set, and removal takes an hour, with OPI GelColor, each coat goes under an LED light for 30 seconds and removal takes 10 minutes. So now you

Vale Life : June/July 2012

For June and July, Body & Soul is offering OPI GelColor manicures for £22 (usual price £27). Body & Soul also offers a wide range of beauty treatments, including facials, massages, waxing and holistic treatments. Spray tanning and sunbeds are also available. l Body & Soul, 59 Westmorland Avenue, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7HS. Call 01296 434216, or visit www.bodyandsoulaylesbury.co.uk l For more beauty and fashion adventures, visit Alex Gardner’s Fashion Bandit blog at www.the-fashion-bandit.blogspot.co.uk.

Laura Gilbey at Body & Soul will have your nails looking gorgeous

Body & Soul

59 Westmorland Avenue Aylesbury HP21 7HS 01296 434216

Barbershop - Walter’s Ash

SUMMER OFFERS

Open Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9.30am to 5pm Saturdays: 7.30am to 4pm

Book a course of six Body Sculpting Treatments and receive a FREE body brush and also get £5 off the Body Sculpting Duo

Email: s.madness@yahoo.co.uk www.facebook.com/shear.madness1

Blue Skies Mobile Therapy

Special Special Summer Offers Offer Shellac Manicure & Shellac Pedicure for only £50

Shear Madness, 245 Main Road, Walter’s Ash, Bucks, HP14 4HT. Tel: 07742 361711

*Special Offer*

Receive £5 OFF with this voucher. Introducing O·P·I gel colour manicure for an introductory price of £22

Massage, Reflexology, Reiki, Manicure, Pedicure, Facial, Nutritional Advice all included.

To book call Anna Lipman on 07722 425314 www.blueskiesmobiletherapy.com

(normal price £27)

For more treatment and product special offers please see our website:

www.bodyandsoulaylesbury.co.uk

tillynilly

01844 220035

creative home interiors

info@tillynilly.com

‘Open Day at The Gallery Stoneworld’ Thursday 28th June 10am – 3pm Come and talk to us about your made to measure requirements, view samples and fabrics

Sample sale and special offers on home accessories will also be available on this day Made to measure blinds - fabulous choice of blackout rollers Curtains, Roman Blinds and Soft Furnishings ▪ Alterations Choose from our fabric or supply your own Free measuring and quotation ▪ Installation available www.tillynilly.com for more information Decorative accessories and gifts for home and garden also available View or shop online at www.tillynilly.com/store FREE delivery to Vale Life readers – use offer code VLDEL Visit The Gallery Stoneworld 43a Upper High Street Thame OX9 2DW – where you will find our fabulous handblown glass vases and other decorative pieces Vale Life : June/July 2012

Column: Penny Harper ‘Thoughts of a small town girl’

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Penny Harper

here’s nothing more levelling than an egg and spoon race. You can be Usain Bolt but you’ll still struggle to keep that sucker on the spoon. I’ve always thought that school sports days are brilliant. There’s the dressing-up game, the sack race and the ever-popular three-legged dash. You have to embrace these rare occurrences when it’s entirely acceptable to point and laugh at people who’ve fallen over. Sure, I’m the first to admit that I used to take the proper running races far too seriously. On one Middle School sports day, my archrival and I failed to even make it across the finish line because we were too busy wrestling each other to the ground. Not my finest hour, I’ll admit. For those schools who want to rule out competition altogether, I say ‘that’s life’. There are winners and losers and there are little girls who are forced to litter-

Penny advises a standing wang...

pick for the rest of the afternoon after what’s deemed ‘unreasonable behaviour’ on the sports field. I came home from a school sports day recently and told Mr P that I can’t wait to be a mum. He smiled and cuddled me and said it must have been lovely watching all the kids going for it. I said ‘yes, but mostly because I can’t wait to see those other mothers eat my dust during the mummies’ race’. Cuddle time ended shortly afterwards. I was delighted to see that they

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

do corporate team-building events now that are themed around traditional sports day events. Fantastic! Imagine two rival firms holding a tug of war. Oh, I see. It’s meant to be a bit of fun. I’ve sort of gone off the idea now. My personal sports day favourite event will forever be welly-wanging. Welly-wanging should definitely be an Olympic sport. Forget beach volleyball; forget table-tennis, welly-wanging takes strength, accuracy and a right arm like Popeye. It’s important to remember that the bigger the welly, the more impressive the wang. You can wang the welly from a running or a standing start. I prefer the standing start. Some people choose to wang the welly from their foot but in my experience, you get a telling off from your Mum for doing that in the hallway. I always liked to borrow my Dad’s wellies as they made for optimum wanging. If you ever see

Small Town

Girl

him hopping round the garden, you’ll know I’ve snuck off to get some practice in. The last time I wanged was with my own size fours and despite a Herculean effort it just didn’t wang very far at all. I guess that’s my lesson learned: you can’t win’em all. On the other hand there’s the philosophy ‘if at first you don’t succeed… cheat’. I’m off to find an egg, a spoon and some Blu-Tack.

Providing the ultimate salon experience

At Eclipse, throughout June, we have an amazing 3 for 2 REDKEN promotion - buy any 3 REDKEN products, from across the whole range and get the cheapest FREE. Redken haven’t limited this to any one particular range, so stock up while you can!

Festival Time The festival season is upon us and this Summer’s open air look is distinctly hippy chic with messy plaits, vintage up-dos, top-knots and unique accessories. Whether you are ‘glamping’ at Glastonbury or vamping at the V Fest, keeping your hair looking fresh and stylish has to be easy… and quick! Pixie Lott, Rhianna and The Saturdays are all icons when it comes to festival fashion, not forgetting Kate Moss of course, who is effortlessy stylish no matter what the occasion! Here Eclipse stylists Heidi and Jade demonstrate quick, easy and natural stylings that can be achieved at home before your big weekend.

For the looks above let your hair dry naturally (or with a little help from a curling wand or GHDs) to achieve soft waves. The following day wear it up by pinning your loose curls in no particular way and adding twists, plaits, hairbands or flowers, for the ultimate hippy chick festival look. For those of you with shorter hair there are ways of making it appear longer and you can always cheat

a little and clip in a few hair extensions! We have a wide range of human hair extensions in our salon. If you are camping, you’ll want to carry as little as possible. So after food, drink and essentials, pack a Redken dry shampoo and you can still look fresh and glam the morning after! If you would like a few hints and tips, Heidi and Jade will be happy to help, so pop in for a chat!

Be sure to watch out for Eclipse in the next issue of Vale Life Magazine as there will be something exciting in store for all readers... Eclipse Hair Design, 56 North Street, Thame, OX9 3BH Tel: 01844 260062 Web: www.eclipse hair-design.co.uk Email: info@eclipse hair-design.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @eclipsethame

STOP PRESS... vacancies: apprentice/shampooist & receptionist (p/t)... apply Eclipse Hair Design as above... Vale Life : June/July 2012

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Unfortunately, you can’t bank on the British weather, so why not give your home a makeover and enjoy the summer come rain or shine... For a sleekly minimal look, try panel blinds

Awning, noon and night... For the ultimate in outdoor summer living, an awning extends your living space while shielding you from the weather. Peter John supplies Luxeflex awnings in an array of colours, made to measure using fade-resistant, water-repellant fabric. They can be fitted with electric motors and lighting to create a cosy al fresco evening dining retreat. Complete your outdoor dining space with rustic furniture, lanterns, planters, outdoor cushions and decorative ironmongery. White Hart Studio in Haddenham is a good source, as are Haddenham Garden Centre (01844 290395; www.

Accessories from White Hart Studio, Haddenham haddenhamgardencentre. co.uk) and Kingshall Furniture in Rowsham (01296 339925; www.kingshallfurniture.co.uk) for garden furniture.

Go for the shabby chic look with Provencal-style furniture, rustic planters and decorative stone accessories from White Hart Studio (15 Church Way, Haddenham, 01844 292308; www.white hartstudio.com) 20

Vale Life : June/July 2012

s usual, everyone’s says: “We do blinds to cover every talking about the budget. We do really reasonably weather? No sooner had priced blinds such as rollers and we dug out the shorts metal venetians to the more top-end and flip-flops than the heavens electrically operated blinds.” opened and let rip with a Jubilee Innovations include the wash-out. Instead of longingly Facette system, which yearning for Contifeatures alternate layers nental days spent of translucent and al fresco, there are opaque fabric that plenty of ways to allow you to adjust update your home the level of shade to enjoy whatever and privacy. Similarly, the sky throws at us. Silhouette Shades are a Aylesbury’s Peter modern alternative to John Interiors offers a nets, ideal for softening Algarve chair, Kingshall complete home intethe daylight in southFurniture (01296 339925; riors service and says facing rooms. Luxaflex kingshallfurniture.co.uk) summer is the perfect blinds are high-tech, time to think about blinds. Curtains too. Forget dangerous and unsightly often look heavy at this time of year, trailing cords – you can choose the while blinds create a more modern LiteRise cordless system, retractable feel as well as letting you control the level of daylight and offering all-important shade from the sun Basketball should it choose to shine. stripe And we’re not talking budget cushion, rollers here (although Peter John can £24.99, help you with these, too); today’s from blinds are highly sophisticated and tillynilly come in a range of funky designs. in Thame As well as Rol-lite, Lonsdale and (01844 Novatec, Peter John is an approved 220035; supplier for Luxaflex. www.tilly As Peter John’s Julie Godfrey nilly.com)

Vale Life : June/July 2012

WIN

Classic Plissé Shades for a New Englandstyle bedroom

cords, and even electric controls. Blinds really come into their own in conservatories and along wide expanses of glass, especially on sunny days. If you’re blessed with bi-fold doors, a really fresh trend is Japanese-inspired panel blinds, in plain or delicately patterned fabrics. For conservatories, Peter John

recommends Duette Shades as their innovative insulating honeycomb design keeps out the summer heat. With your blinds fitted, you can put the finishing touches to your summer haven - why not try seasidey deckchair stripes or how about a Colonial feel with lots of greenery and clean-lined rattan?

Duette Shades create a cool, calm conservatory

l Peter John, Barclays House, Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury, HP19 8DB Tel: 01296 398301 Website: www.peterjohn.co.uk

Hi-de-hi glampers

The Glam Camping Company has come up with a brilliant no-fuss illumination for BBQs, picnics and camping. Just let the Glass Solar Bottle (£9.99) soak up the sun during the day, and it will shed a warm glow after dark. If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning one of three Glass Solar Bottles, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk What is Glam Camping’s solar bottle made from? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by July 25th. l The Glam Camping Company (0845 869 8960; www.theglam campingcompany.com)

Vale Life : June/July 2012

eden

Open Day

Saturday @berryfields 30th June 10am-4pm & 3 BED MORE 2 S TO BE HOUSE ED RELEAS

A stunning collection of stylish and spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 2 & 3 bedroom houses. Offered on a part-buy/part-rent basis, starting at 35%

s ice y pr nl se o ha m rc fro Pu art st

ÂŁ4

Bicester Road, Aylesbury, HP18 0PS

To register your interest or for more information call 0845 601 7729 email newbuild@chg.org.uk or visit www.edenberryfields.co.uk *Represents a 35% share in a one bed property valued at ÂŁ125,000. Property prices are correct at time of print and subject to change. You must live or work in the Aylesbury Vale District Council area to apply. A discounted monthly rent is payable on the portion of the property that is not purchased. A monthly service charge is also applicable. Terms and conditions apply. Computer generated image and the photo is from Plot 130, 2 bed show apartment and is for illustrative purposes only. Catalyst Housing is a charitable housing association.

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30/05/2012 16:41:16

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

3/2/11 17:33:15

l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Summer? Sorry, I hadn’t noticed!

e Brits are renowned for talking about the weather - and this year we’ve had plenty to talk about. In my last column I was discussing how to conserve water and generally be water-wise - drought-resistant plants anyone?! No sooner was the print dry on that issue of Vale Life it seems, than everywhere else was wet. While we all started off telling each other the rain would be ‘good for the garden’, after a while, that started to wear a little thin. And in fact the continuous wet weather has now caused its own problems. While the rain may have helped our perennials grow tall, some of the lengthier ones are likely to have drooped over from the bashing they’ve had. If you staked or supported your plants earlier in the season – well done. For the rest of us, it’s still worth trying to use stakes or hoop supports - there’s still time for them to bounce back. Make sure any pots and containers aren’t drowning. Lifting pots up onto pot feet (or a couple of half bricks or stones) will stop them sitting in a puddle of water. I don’t need to tell you not to mow the lawn if it’s wet, but now’s

also the time to make a note of areas where puddles form and then you can aerate the spots well, come the Autumn. Let’s hope that the weather improves for Wimbledon and in July, so that the Olympics isn’t a washout. Have you seen the Olympic rings recreated at Kew Gardens? See picture top right and take a look at: www.kew.org/news/ olympic-rings-unveiled.htm. The effect was achieved with various varieties of violas and apple mint. While a full-scale recreation may be beyond many of us, how

Vale Life : May/June 2012

D for Dementia

eth Britton describes herself as a freelance feature writer, dementia campaigner, football lover, female angler and jazzy singer. She loves cooking, music, relationabout painting five containers in the ships and life. Born in Aylesbury’s Royal Bucks appropriate colours - blue, yellow, black, green, and red - and filling Hospital, she has lived and worked with matching plants? in the Vale most of her 31 years and Or explore some silver, gold is currently living near Bicester. and bronze plants such as: silver Beth’s father had vascular deArtemisia, bronze fennel or mentia for approximately the last 19 golden choisya, or introduce metal structures into a border or large years of his life and spent the last container, as they have done in eight in a Wendover nursing home. this garden at Butterfly World, St As a result of her experiences Albans (pictured left). with him Beth began writing a dementia blog to provide support l Naomi MacKay has been writing about gardens for 16 years, and and advice for those faced with is spending much of the summer similar situations, to inform and working on the Royal Horticultural educate the wider population about Society’s website, among other this increasingly common condition, things. A journalist for more than to promote debate, and to campaign 20 years, she also helps businesses to create or improve their websites, for improvements in dementia care e-newsletters and publications. and changes to the health and social Naomi is offering a 10% discount care systems. to Vale Life readers who quote the You can read her engaging, code VLJUN. Call 07802 426594, email naomimackay@gmail.com or informative and emotive words at: log on to www.naomimackay.co.uk http://d4dementia.blogspot.co.uk

Stanbridge Road, Haddenham, Bucks, HP17 8HN Tel: 01844 290395 www.haddenhamgardencentre.co.uk

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

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Saturday 23rd June 10am-3pm A stunning collection of 7 spacious two bedroom properties located in desirable Haddenham, just 5 miles south west of Aylesbury. A brand new home with just £6,825 deposit required! †

A418

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* Represents a 35% share in a two bed property valued at £195,000. Monthly rent payable on remaining share, plus service charge. †Minimum 10% deposit (£6,825) based on share purchased. Prices are correct at time of print and subject to change. Priority will be given to those who live or work in the Aylesbury Vale District Council area. Subject to eligibility and affordability approval. Terms & Conditions apply. Catalyst Housing is a charitable housing association.

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

For decades councils have struggled to manage and maintain their ageing housing stocks. In recent years many have passed the problem to independently run housing trusts or associations - so, six years in, how is Vale of Aylesbury Housing managing its lot...

any councils no longer own any council houses. Today responsibility for these properties has generally been taken on by independently run housing trusts and associations. In the Vale this happened some six years ago when Vale of Aylesbury Housing, a ‘not for profit’ housing association formed, following the transfer of 7,250 homes, 2,400 garages and 40 shops from Aylesbury Vale District Council in July 2006. With an annual turnover of £32million and 200 plus employees Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust makes a significant contribution to the local economy despite being a ‘not-forprofit’ organisation. The Trust is a charitable registered social landlord (RSL) and provides affordable rented housing and related services to people in the Vale who need a home. As part of the transfer The Trust had to agree to complete 56 ‘promises’ within five years. Impressively, by the time the Trust reached its fifth anniversary in July 2011, 55 promises had been achieved with promise 56, the regeneration of Walton Court, underway. Achievements to date include: l Investing over £100million in improving residents’ homes to exceed The Government’s Decent Homes standard l Major regeneration initiatives for Walton Court and Vale House l Fitting over 2,000 new bathrooms and nearly 3,000 new kitchens l Installing over 3,000 double glazing systems and more than 4,000 energy-efficient central heating systems. l Investing over £1.3million to improve the environment and security of residents’ communities l In partnership with AVDC, awarding grants totalling £1.75million to community groups and local good causes via the Community Chest l The Trust’s Welfare Services Officer has 26

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway at Walton Court, Aylesbury

secured residents over £1million in unclaimed benefits The Trust’s corporate strategy clearly sets out the visions and values it aspires to: the vision being - ‘homes for living, communities for life’ and the values - to be: ‘customer focused’, ‘open-minded and innovative’ and ‘expert in all we do’. The vision and values were updated and relaunched on May 4, 2012, marking The Trust’s transition from LSVT (large scale voluntary transfer) working to deliver the 56 promises, to an independent social housing provider and key local business. Trust Developments: As part of The Trust’s investment programme for 2011-2015 it will be investing £8m per annum. The £3.5m regeneration project which transformed ‘Vale House’ into Wycliffe End ‘Wycliffe End’ shows what can be achieved. The transformation programme has improved not only the building fabric but the whole future of the estate. The flats now boast new and improved kitchens, bathrooms, heating controls and doors. There is better security, CCTV, improved communal areas, landscaped garden and new block names such as Roald Dahl House and Enid

Walton Court refurb underway Blyton House, which were chosen by the residents. The Trust has also installed solar panels on the roofs so the buildings can generate their own electricity for communal areas. Flats have also been redesigned - 20 bedsits have been converted into ten one-bedroom flats to make better use of floor layouts and provide more flexibility for tenants’ lifestyles. Walton Court: A £11.35m regeneration project commenced in January and is due for completion in 2013. The works will be carried out in phases by Bramall Construction. The demolition of units has started, see picture above, which includes The Huntsman pub. The Post Office, Co-op, Healthy Living Centre, Coral and Boots are still open for business. Residents will benefit from their own central, landscaped garden and courtyard area, which is being designed by champions of ‘upcycling’ Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway, pictured above - founders of Red or Dead fashion label and now Hemingway Designs. The shops will be relocated to face outwards onto Hannon Road to encourage increased trade and new homes and retail units will be developed on site. The Healthy Living Centre

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Above: Shared ownership properties in Stone with left, kitchen, built on site of old garages.

The Trust’s electric Nissan. Left: plugged in to charge! Walton Court residents look over the refurb plans at a ‘Meet the Developer’ event

community facilities will be doubled in size to cater for the increase in residents. The Trust is looking to involve the local community in the regeneration project. Garage sites: The Trust’s 2,360 rented garages are located on some 156 sites across the area. The Trust has knocked down and redeveloped land previously occupied by underused and neglected garages to create new homes: Wickham Close in Bardon Green, Aylesbury, has been transformed into 10 onebedroom flats; Clover Lane, Aylesbury now has four, three-bed houses and Lee Crescent in Stone now has five, three-bed houses, two of which are shared ownership properties, see picture top. Following the successful completion of the first garage site redevelopments the Trust development team has received planning permission to redevelop three more former garage sites which will deliver 21 new units for the Trust at: Freemantle Road, Southcourt; Gilmore Road, Elmhurst and Orwell Drive, Hawkslade. Shared Ownership Properties: The Trust has helped local, first-time buyers get onto the property ladder by providing two, three-bed,

Trust apprentices meet Prince Andrew

semi-detached, shared-ownership properties in Clover Lane, Stone (see top). These homes are now occupied, but The Trust is looking to have more shared ownership properties available in the next few years. Accessible properties: The Trust is working in partnership with Aspire - one of the country’s leading Spinal Cord Injury Charities - to provide accessible properties and has already supplied the charity with a one-bed, ground-floor flat in Buckingham, which was opened by Mr Speaker the Rt Hon John Bercow MP. Mr Bercow was so impressed by the impact adapted homes have on rehabilitating people with spinal injury that he offered Aspire use of the Speaker House at the House of Commons to host an event for the charity, which The Trust sponsored. At this event Aspire announced their aim to provide 100 adapted properties and The Trust presented the charity with a ‘key to the door’ of a property - a new build bungalow in Stone - which will be available from summer 2013. Apprenticeships: Last year The Trust launched its first apprenticeship programme. Three apprentices were chosen from 100

applicants for the Property and Development directorate - one each in the plumbing, electrical installation and carpentry trades. The apprentices gain on-the-job training and also attend the local college, see picture below left. This year, The Trust is looking for two apprentice Housing Officers in the Housing and Community Services directorate. The scheme will be launched at Aylesbury College on the evening of 21 June 2012. The deadline for applications is July 5th. Involved Residents: Getting residents involved with The Trust helps shape services by providing advice and ideas on how The Trust can improve. The Trust offers residents different levels of involvement, as little or as much as they like. They can take part in estate walkabouts with a Customer Relationship Manager or complete surveys, or they could become much more involved and join different panels or groups such as the Tenant Scrutiny Panel or Resident Inspectors. The Trust provides residents who are more involved with support and specialist training. Going Green: The Trust was one of the first housing providers in the country to showcase a fully electric vehicle when it bought the new Nissan LEAF (see left) from Aylesbury Nissan last November. The car is used by visiting staff and recharged with power from the solar panels installed on the office roof at Fairfax House. First Contact: The Trust provides and installs the First Contact home lifeline service for anyone living in Aylesbury Vale, who feels they need added support or security at home. The alarm system operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - with a touch of the button users are connected with a trained operator who will be able to assist them. First Contact provides peace of mind for the user, their family and friends, knowing that there’s help on hand when required. These are but a few of the ways in which The Trust has been working to improve the quality of life across our local communities - a very promising start indeed! We aim to bring you more in future issues of Vale Life, in the meantime, for further information on Vale of Aylesbury Housing contact them at Fairfax House, where the newly refurbished offices now have an impressive customer area with private meeting booths, children’s play corner and customer internet access. l Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust, Fairfax House, 69 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 2NJ Website: www.vaht.co.uk Email: info@vaht.co.uk Tel: 01296 732600

Residents getting involved

Vale Life : June/July 2012

These days a bathroom could be anything from a compact en suite shower room to a spectacular wet room with sauna, his and her’s basins and a remote to set the bath running before you get out of bed! Your modern bathroom fitter needs to be ‘adroit,’ in a variety of disciplines...

droit means 'clever' or 'skilful' and seems the perfect description for the services Roger Graw and his bathroom supply and installation company, Adroit Services are offering. Roger founded the business some 20 years ago and has built an excellent reputation for quality workmanship, reasonable prices and excellent customer service. Born and bred in Aylesbury, Roger went to Grange School and then tried a variety of jobs including stints in transport and the motor trade: “I’ve always been quite handy,” says Roger, “I started doing a bit of painting and decorating for family and friends, making up cupboards, a bit of plumbing and tiling. It went well and the jobs kept rolling in. I teamed up with a tiler friend and a plumber in 1989 and we started fitting bathrooms. We did about one a week for the first few years. “Bathrooms are more about finishing than plumbing. Obviously the plumbing has to be done properly and work. We take care to ensure it is and that there are no leaks, but usually, in a bathroom, it is not complicated and the pipework is mostly hidden away. “We offer a complete service, it is not just about fitting a shower or suite, we leave you with a finished room. It is about attention to detail, how everything lines up - the tiling, the paintwork, the lighting - that is what makes our bathrooms special. “We do anything related to bathroons,

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Roger Graw in front showroom

including any related building work. We make bathrooms bigger, create bathrooms out of part of a bedroom, knock toilets and bathrooms together, install wet rooms and wet floors. We do the whole job in-house.” Adroit Services has an interesting business model, which may well explain their success. Over the years Roger has expanded the company as a partnership. He is senior partner, deals with quotations, co-ordinates projects and runs the Aylesbury showroom and office with his wife Elaine. There are then five senior partners who are the firms ‘key installers’ and manage the fitting of the various bathroom projects. They are all highly trained fitters with skills in a variety of areas, from plumbing to electrics, tiling and decorating. “Although some of our guys have specific trades, to us it is more important that they are personable, polite, intelligent and take a pride in their work,” says Roger. “We’ve hand-picked our team - they start as junior partners and then, after an initial trial period, they can become a key partner and are entitled to a share of the profits. They are fully trained during their trial period, which can take a couple of years. It is in their interest to insure that each job they do is completed to the highest standard as they will directly reap the benefits

in recommendations and future business. “Our clients appreciate that the installers in their homes are from our own team and not sub-contractors engaged without being directly known, as can be the case with some companies.” Adroit’s Key Installers are currently: Peter Butt (qualified electrical supervisor, joined 2004), Barry Hinton (multi-skilled, joined 2000), Paul Bowness (joined 2001) and Peter Aiken (joined 2006), and Junior Installers: Mark Welsh (qualified plumber, joined 2005), Cliff Hopcroft, Daniel Oswin and Marius Nicholson. There are pictures and profiles of the Key Installers on the companies website at www.adroitservices.co.uk Peter Butt is married to Emma, Roger and Elaine’s daughter and has a background in electro-mechanical engineering and project management. He is the firm’s qualified supervisor with regard to electrical work: “I like the way we work,” says Peter. “I used to work for a packaging company, as an IT Project manager covering Europe. When I got married to Roger’s daughter Emma, I decided to stop travelling so much. I joined Adroit seven years ago and really enjoy the project orientated nature of this job. You know what you have to do and how long it should take. You are

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Wetroom installation, Bierton

Peter Butt finishes a seal around a shower and wet floor

Aylesbury showroom Roger tries one of his showroom baths for size

Bathroominstallation, Thame completely responsible for the outcome and at the end, the customer says ‘wow!’ and it feels good to have done a great job. The customer’s happy and you get the next recommendation - you are only as good as your last job though, so we work hard to keep our standards up. If we didn’t it wouldn’t just upset the customer, it would upset the previous customer who recommended us too and we don’t want to let any of these people down. “I was an electro-mechanical engineer, so technically qualified as an electrician and I’ve been back to college since, to do the electrical regulations course and the inspection and testing qualification, so I’m now the qualified electrical ‘supervisor’ for Adroit. “I’m proud of what we do, we all work hard to protect the company’s reputation. We are specialists, we know what we are doing and we are confident of our work. It’s an interesting job, there’s lots of variety and we get to meet some lovely people.” Two years ago Adroit took on premises at Bridgegate Business Park, just off Gatehouse Way in Aylesbury: “The showroom is not really open to the general public,” says Roger, “it’s more for clients and customers to come in and look at tile samples and ideas for suites, lights, heating, cupboards and so on.

Roger is based at the showroom with wife Elaine, who joined the firm 12 years ago. They met in 1972 in The Britannia Arms in Aylesbury and have been married 38 years. The couple have two daughters, Emma, who is married to Peter, and Hannah. Elaine takes care of accounting and administration and organises Roger’s diary. “When a customer gets in touch I’ll meet them at their home, take some measurements and discuss their requirements, Says Roger. “I can then check the water system and see what will work for them. I’ll take a selection of brochures and literature and can recommend suitable sanitary ware, tile stockists and bathroom furniture to suit their tastes and budget. “We can supply tiles, lighting, heating, radiators, underfloor heating, mirror demisters, low voltage lighting, bespoke inset mirrors, custom marble or granite worktops, plaster walls and ceilings... anything you could want in a bathroom we know how to do and how to do properly and we can do it as a package, so I’ll give you a quotation for the total cost. “We are part of the Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme which means Trading Standards have verified we are a good firm to deal with and that we are committed to good customer service and comply with con-

sumer protection legislation. They constantly monitor feedback from our customers too, so you can be confident their recommendation is current. “Although we work to best practice and maintain very high standards, we don’t charge the most. Our value for money rating on the feedback forms shows customers are pleased with the price they are paying, especially as they are pleased with the workmanship too. “A good aftersales service is important to us. Even if a problem develops years after we have fitted a bathroom we’ll sort it out. We have what I call a common sense guarantee. As we supply and fit the bathroom, you only deal with us, we are responsible for supplying everything and fitting it, so you are much better off should there be a problem as we will put it right for you. If you take a faulty tap back to a bathroom supplier they may exchange it for a new one, but you’ve still got to fit it - if it’s been fitted by us we will get the part and swap it over for you. “There’s generally a manufacturers back-up as well. For example if we supply an Aqualisa shower and it’s installed by us you get a five year guarantee from Aqualisa and we honour that with regard to any labour needed. That shower must have been installed properly in the first place though. Aqualisa specifies a specific way of installing their showers but some installers cut corners to save time, which could mean the shower isn’t covered and the guarantee would be void. Our installers are trained in the correct procedures. “Working in a customer’s home we are as efficient as we can be and work as cleanly and as painlessly for you as possible. We cover the access route, including the stairs, to protect floor coverings and protect other areas as required (such as beds when working on en suite rooms). We tidy up at the end of each day and dispose of all rubbish responsibly, keeping disruption of your daily routine to an absolute minimum. And of course, we ensure a working WC will always be available at the end of each day!” l Unit 17 Bridgegate Business Park, Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP198XN Phone: 01296 489993 Email: info@adroitservices.org www.adroitservices.org

Vale Life : June/July 2012

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

The Bluebird has long been a symbol of happiness and health. It is fast becoming a sign that help is at hand too, as a new, high quality, home care service has recently launched in Aylesbury...

luebird Care is a national organisation providing home care through local branches run by franchisees. The company has 130 care providers across the UK and Ireland and operates a stringent selection process to ensure that their local partners are the type of people able to recruit and manage caring and competent staff and deliver the highest standards of care at home to their customers. Last September Aylesbury couple, Edward Banks and Ruth Levett took on the Aylesbury area which covers Wendover, Haddenham, Princes Risborough and surrounding villages. Edward previously worked in aerospace and now uses his programme management and customer service experience to ensure the smooth running of the business. Ruth trained as a classical dancer and spent 10 years performing across Europe and the UK. In 2004 she retrained as a Pilates teacher and built a successful business working with many different groups of people. She enjoyed working with older people, helping them stay fit and able and now uses her skills to assist with recruitment and training and is responsible for the sales and marketing side of the business. They are joined by Care Manager Paul Jones. Paul has been working in social care for eight years and has experience in both public and private sector roles. He has numerous qualifications in care and management and is passionate about providing quality care. Having worked for some large care providers, Paul feels it is important that the Bluebird Care service is both personal and local and can be tailored to each customer’s needs. Paul is responsible for recruitment and

Bluebird carer with Mrs Bath of Aston Clinton Mrs Bath, above, has been receiving care from Bluebird Care for 10 months now: “I’d been receiving care from another company who would turn up late, but my biggest concern was always the amount of different carers that came. With Bluebird Care I know who is coming to see me, as I have assigned care workers - they are polite and professional and always have a smile. The office staff are helpful and easy to get hold of, if I need to change a visit. It is such a relief to know that I can stop worrying about my care and focus on the rest of my life.”

Above: Ruth and Edward Banks Inset: Care Manager Paul Jones training of all staff to ensure they meet his and Bluebird Care’s high standards. Along with ensuring compliance with all Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirements, Paul ensures each customer receives a visit to discuss their specific care needs and how Bluebird Care can best meet them. He also studies feedback from customers to make sure each one is happy. A recent unannounced inspection by the CQC confirmed the quality and compliance of the care being provided. “My mother was a care manager and my grandmother a home help,” says Ruth, “so I’ve grown up knowing about the industry and what it involves. All our carers work for us and are trained by us to provide a high level of care. We are quite specific in who we take on. Recruits don’t have to have formal qualifications or to have done care work before, as full training is provided, but they do have to have certain qualities. They have to be the right sort of person. We rejected around 120 applicants selecting our first ten carers! We are always happy to hear from new applicants though. “Newly trained carers will ‘shadow’ an experienced member of staff until we and they are confident they can work on their own. Training continues during their employment and staff can gain NVQ qualifications and become supervisors and even care managers.

“We work with Buckinghamshire County Council, as an approved care provider, as well as for private clients. Often enquiries come from a client’s recommendation, which is lovely as it shows they feel we are doing a good job. “Our care plans are tailored to the customer’s needs and wishes and can be from a 15 minute call to 24-hour live-in care. We might assist with start and end of the day activities, such as getting washed and dressed and making breakfast, to domestic tasks, such as cleaning, washing, ironing and dog walking; assistance with shopping and other daily activities. A walk to the park, a game of cards, going to bingo, checking medication has been taken, cooking a roast Sunday lunch, all are possible activities. “Respite care is important, for example, if a family member is the principal carer there may be a need for relief to allow that person time for themselves, even if it’s only for a couple of hours, a couple of times a week.” To find out more see the Bluebird Care website or call Paul at their Aylesbury office on 01296 344000. l Bluebird Care Aylesbury & Wycombe 39 - 41 High Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 1SH Tel: 01296 344000 Email: aylesbury@bluebirdcare.co.uk Website: www.bluebirdcare.co.uk Vale Life : June/July 2012

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Do you suffer from a stiff shoulder, creaky knees or foot pain? At The Luxton Clinic, there are three osteopaths and a podiatrist with the skills to get you back on your feet... “

e like to keep people going,” says osteopath Ian Luxton, “to help them keep doing the activities that feed the soul, whether it’s gardening, playing with the grandchildren, running marathons or playing sport.” A keen sportsman himself, Ian, pictured right, became interested in osteopathy as a way of treating his own sporting injuries. “We want to keep our patients active and mobile,” he says, “by helping to relieve pain, accelerate recovery and promote good health.” Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It recognises the link between the structure and function of the body and that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and underlying soft tissue and internal organs, functioning smoothly together. Osteopaths are highly-trained, primary healthcare professionals who focus on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical and structural problems of the body. Their techniques can relieve pain and assist in a speedy return to normal activity. Anyone can make an appointment to visit an osteopath, you don’t need a GP referral. Treatment usually consists of a combination of soft-tissue releasing techniques,stretching and some specific adjustments affecting joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Advice may also be given on diet,exercise and self-help treatments. “As a young man,” says Ian, “I was playing rugby, football and athletics. The rugby gave me a lot of injuries and I was rarely able to get satisfactory treatment - fortunately we’ve come a long way since those days.” Ian became interested in the treatment of sports injuries, physiotherapy and osteopathy and trained as an osteopath some 20 years ago. It is his second career - he ran a successful international business information company beforehand. “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school,” says Ian, “apart from play rugby. So I joined the NatWest bank, played a lot of sport and eventually started my own firm. When I sold my

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Debby, Ian, Victoria and Roger

Ian Luxton

business, it gave me the opportunity to change careers and do something I really wanted to.” All osteopaths practising in the UK have to complete rigorous training, including a four or five year degree course and many hours of clinical training. Ian completed his training and started working as an osteopath in Surrey. He moved to the Vale 14 years ago and set up a natural health centre in Princes Risborough. He still consults in the town at the Cross Keys practice on the High Street. Ian and his wife Debby opened The Luxton Clinic at Stonor House, Chinnor in July 2004. Victoria Inglis-Smith joined them a year later and Roger Whalley came on board last year. While working as the practice manager for the clinic Debby recognized a local need for a good professional podiatry service: “I was interested in all aspects of chiropody and podiatry,” says Debby, “ so I decided to become properly trained and undertook a three-year honours degree at Northampton University. It was hard work! But it gave me an excellent training in anatomy, physiology, clinical medicine, pharmacology, biomechanics and orthopaedics as well as sports injuries and

paediatric feet.” Debby’s clinical experience and work placements within the NHS also gave her valuable experience: “It’s not just about treating someone’s feet,” she says, “you are treating the whole person. Diabetics in particular can have problems with their feet and a podiatrist may be the first one to spot the underlying condition, which could be a life-saver. At The Luxton Clinic we offer a full range of chiropody too, from treating fungal infections, corns and calluses to general foot care and nail cutting.” The titles Chirpodist and Podiatrist are protected by law. A podiatrist has to hold a degree in podiatry from a recognised university in the UK. They must also be registered with the Health Professions Council. “At the Luxton Clinic we find that podiatry and osteopathy are a useful combination,” explains Debby. “We can cross-refer or call on each other for advice and it can be very beneficial to the patient as it helps to diagnose and treat effectively.” “I am particularly interested in the cause of health problems,” says Ian. “I think it is important not to just treat the symptoms, but to get to the root of a problem. If you are

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Roger Whalley Osteopath

Victoria Inglis-Smith, Osteopath

Debby Luxton, Podiatrist Victoria Inglis-Smith, Osteopath Victoria Inglis-Smith, Osteopath

Luxton Clinic entrance suffering pain I want to know why. What is causing your discomfort? Once we’ve found the cause, then it is possible to treat effectively and work to avoid the situation arising again. “We treat a lot of work related injuries, computer strain, for example, which can cause headaches or pins and needles in the fingers. This can add a lot of stress to people’s lives and our objective is to help people work happily at their optimum level. “We all treat neuro, muscular-skeletal conditions, while Victoria and Roger both take an interest in paediatrics as well. Victoria is also interested in ante-natal and post-natal osteopathy.” Victoria joined The Luxton Clinic seven years ago, initially as holiday cover and in that time has had two children herself, Jonathan, 3, and Katherine, who is only 10 months. She is an ex Lord Williams’s pupil and lives in Thame. She and Roger both trained at the British School of Osteopathy in London: “I also practice cranial osteopathy,” says Victoria. “It’s a very gentle, subtle osteopathy, good for youngsters and babies. We can help mumsto-be with back pain and pelvis pain from the weight of the baby, headaches from hormonal

changes and with tips on posture, lifting and carrying and what to avoid.” Victoria has a Masters degree in paediatric osteopathy and has worked at The Osteopathic Centre for Children in London. Roger is originally from Hampshire and lives in South London. He studied botany and soil science in America and worked in Costa Rica. He got involved in community healthcare while in Central America and decided to retrain as an osteopath. He has now qualified and is studying for a Masters degree in Paediatrics: “Osteopathy is very rewarding,” says Roger. “I enjoy the diagnostic side, the handson nature of the treatment and the holistic approach, that treats the whole person. I am specialising in paediatrics but I enjoy treating all ages. Newborns might have had problems during pregnancy or during delivery, so need treatment which can help them sleep better, feed better and digest better.” “If someone is in pain or has a health problem they would like to ask us about they are welcome to call,” says Ian, “and we can discuss it over the phone to assess whether a visit to the clinic is their best option.” On your first visit, a full medical history

will be taken and an examination carried out. The osteopath will then assess the problem, make a diagnosis and discuss it with you. Treatments usually last 45 minutes for the first appointment and up to half an hour for subsequent appointments. Osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council and Podiatrists by the Health Professionals Council. They must show Continuous Professional Development (CPD) every year, going on courses, keeping up with industry developments and practicing to a high standard. The Luxton Clinic offers Structural Osteopathy, Cranial Osteopathy, Sports Injury Therapy and a full Podiatry and Chiropody service. It is conveniently situated and has its own free car park. “Pain is the body telling us something is wrong,” says Ian. “We will work hard to find the cause of that pain and get you back to an active and healthy life as soon as possible.” l The Luxton Clinic, Stonor House 57 Lower Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX39 4DU Tel: 01844 352200 Email: ouch@theluxtonclinic.co.uk Website: www.theluxtonclinic.co.uk

Vale Life : June/July 2012

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

l Column:

Helen Peacocke ‘Paws under the table’

Retired Oxford Times features writer Helen and her faithful Border Collie Pythius explore walks and dog friendly pubs in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds

Helen Peacocke

Paws under the Table

Phoenix Trail, Thame:

Seven miles long, but you can turn round at any time and head for The James Figg pub...

f you want to visit a typical Oxfordshire market town, you couldn’t do better than take a trip to Thame, where you will discover a wealth of beautiful old buildings and a traditional market square. Street parking in Thame is free, but limited to two hours in places. There were more than 20 public houses in this historic town during the 16th century. Obviously that number has diminished greatly during recent times, nevertheless you will discover more fascinating old pubs here than in most market towns, including the James Figg (formally The Abingdon Arms), which begun life as the Greyhound in the 17th century. This dog-friendly pub, which is part of the Peach Pub chain, has

l Dog Friendly pubs and walks in Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds http://pawsunderthetable.blogspot.com

retained its ‘pubby’ feel. Whilst the food is freshly cooked from local ingredients where possible, the menu is modest, offering good honest dishes such as home-roast ham and egg and chips and delicious pies baked locally. It’s certainly a great pub to visit either at the beginning or the end of your walk, particularly if you enjoy real ale. My dog Pythius loves this pub as he gets given a free pig’s ear whenever we call. The Phoenix Trail is a sevenmile linear walk which runs along the old railway route between

Vale Life : June/July 2012

for this friendly little cat, he likes Thame and Princes Risborough. greeting all who pass his way. He’s You will discover it on the edge of there most days. town by first ambling through the How far you walk the trail is up Cuttlebrook Reserve, an award to you, but be assured that the furwinning 27-acre nature reserve ther you walk, the better the view. just behind the High Street, (cut The countryside suddenly emerges through the alleyway to the side of the Co-op and walk along Southern once you leave the outskirts of Thame, having passed several Road). Steps leading to the trail factories and industrial estates are adjacent to the little wood on along the way. This the left-hand edge of traffic-free trail, the reserve. Pythius stops to check out interspersed with One of the fascinata Phoenix Trail sculpture little footpaths, ing things about this caters for cyclists, trail is the amazing walkers and horse range of sculptures riders, so you will built by furniture stunot be alone if you dents from the town’s choose this walk, Rycotewood College, mainly because of that are strategically its close proximity placed along the way. to a busy market As these sculptures town. Mothers are weird and wacky pushing prams, seats, designed to cyclists, famireflect the trail’s lies, dog walkers and railway heritage runners use this path and provide walkers frequently, turning it with a place to rest, into a very friendly and they certainly turn companionable place. the trail into something to remember. l Read about Helen’s latest walks Then there’s the tabby cat who at http://pawsunderthetable. sits beside a litter bin during the blogspot.com/ early stages of the walk. Look out

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

Formula 1 graphics

Marketing is important to any business and having your brand smartly emblazoned on vehicles and premises is a cost effective means of advertising your presence. Many Vale firms engage the talents of Bob and Steve at Reflex Graphics, where company vans are just the beginning...

dvertising is everywhere, from the logo on your pc to the hoardings at your local football ground, on commercial vehicles, shop fascias, factories and offices, even the most stylish local magazines have been known to feature the occasional brand. From their new base at Westcott, near Aylesbury, Bob Beardsmore and Steve Welfare of Reflex Graphics, design and produce an impressive range of internal and external corporate signage and displays. They have worked for companies large and small throughout the UK, producing graphics for Formula 1 racing cars, logos for yachts and branding for the vehicles of many a local business, such as Vale Brewery, Kinv Flooring and Omega Homestyle. Bob and Steve have been in partnership for 18 years. They met while working for a former graphics company in Banbury, got on well and decided to go into business together. They started in a little room above a shoe repairers in the centre of Thame, in 1994 and then moved to a small unit at Notley Farm near Long Crendon, which they left recently to expand once again. Steve comes from Little Milton. He went into graphics straight from school with a job at a vinyl sign company in Great Haseley. “I learnt on the job,” says Steve, “the systems and software have changed a lot over the years but I’ve always kept up with the latest developments.” It was the early 90s, one of Steve’s colleagues was leaving to set up a new company in Banbury and Steve went to work for him, Whitbread Round The World Race yacht

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Bob and Steve

which is where he met Bob. Bob is from Leicester. He studied for a degree in product design at Birmingham Polytechnic and has since worked with interiors, furniture and finally graphics. He has a wealth of experience having been in the industry since the late 80s and has seen the introduction of digital printing into signwriting, which has completely revolutionised the industry. “It’s an exciting job to be in,” says Bob. “Every day is different, every customer is different. We can be in the office designing and preparing a job one day and then out on site anywhere in the country, or even abroad, the next. We do graphics for anything really, from a 40ft lorry to a sticker for a hard hat. We do large format digital printing, computer cut vinyls, canvases, banners, exhibition panels and frosted vinyl manifestations for interior partition glazing.” The Reflex portfolio, some of which you can see on their website at: www.reflexsigns. co.uk certainly shows they get around. “A lot of our customers have been with us for years, because we’re willing to go the extra mile - sometimes literally,”says Steve. “We were commissioned to do the graphics for a competitor in the Whitbread Around the World Yacht Race,”says Bob, “Graphics are often the last thing people think of and this

job had a particularly tight deadline - which meant fitting them in Southampton docks while hanging out of a dinghy... one of us was fitting the graphics while the other was struggling to hold the dinghy close to the hull!” “It was much the same with F1 and British Touring Car as far as deadlines were concerned.” says Steve. “We’d do a days work and then travel to Milton Keynes to fit the graphics to the car, only to find it surrounded by mechanics. We had to work around them and were rarely home before 4am. The cars looked fantastic though and we had a real sense of pride watching the Grand Prix the following weekend, knowing that all those graphics came from our little office in Thame.” “This same level of visually striking design can be applied to anyone’s graphics and livery,” says Bob, “A good well thought out design not only portrays your company in a positive light but also provides one of the most cost effective methods for marketing and exposing your business to a wider and geographically relevant audience.” Not all Reflex work is one-off ’s though. The firm has supplied and fitted large vehicle fleets for companies such as DAF and Kidde Fire Protection, removing old livery and replacing with new on around 200 various-sized vehicles at depots across the UK.

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Illuminated aluminium signs Design for Kinv Flooring van

Window manifestation graphics for Orion Recruitment Honda touring car and trailer

“We did window and showroom display graphics for all the Subaru and Mitsubishi car showrooms, across the UK and the Channel Islands,” says Bob, “and for Isuzu we supplied and installed two huge, internally-illuminated LED logos on the side of their headquarters in Hatfield. We also supplied a totem sign, various wayfinding systems and some internal banners and wall displays.” In a highly competitive world it is essential to have effective exterior signage to help your company stand out from the crowd and simple informative, directional signage is vital for good customer service. The lads at Reflex are no strangers to cherry-pickers and scissor lifts. A sizable portion of their work has been installing large signs to corporate premises such as the one

for Area 51, pictured above, at Haddenham Business Park, a 3.6m x 2.4m framed sign with flourescent lighting rig above. Reflex also supplies signwriting and graphics on a variety of smaller mediums, from A-boards and forecourt signs to exhibition displays, lightboxes and illuminations,

illuminated signs, modular displays, posters and chalkboards, 3D lettering, the list seems endless! Interesting developments in recent years include the use of ‘window manifestation graphics’ which use a frosted effect vinyl on glass, offering a stylish, flexible, low cost alternative to acid etching. It reinforces your brand while helping you to comply with legal requirements regarding glazed areas and can increase privacy without sacrificing natural light. Another example is ‘Wall Wrap’, a special vinyl with adhesive strong enough to stick to brickwork. The design Reflex did for the House of Spice in Thame, below, shows it is less intrusive than shop fascia and ideal for use in planning-sensitive areas. Reflex-Graphics are now settled into their smart new studio at Westcott: “The move to Westcott has been brilliant,” says Bob. “We’d outgrown our old premises and now have much more space and a large indoor fitting bay, which has been a blessing over the last few months! Meeting Bob and Steve it’s easy to see why Reflex is so popular. Not only are the guys extremely good at their jobs but they are friendly, easy going and genuinely keen to help - just send them a sign! l Reflex Graphics, Unit 6, Upper Barn Farm Industrial Estate, Bicester Road, Westcott, HP18 0JX Tel: 01296 658796 Email: bob@reflex-graphics.co.uk Website: www.reflexsigns.co.uk

Graphics for Vale Brewery Below: Hughendon M40 digital image design Left: Van with graphics applied

Vale Life : June/July 2012

What better location for a Landrover and 4x4 specialist than a farm? Don’t expect a ramshackle barn though, at their rural hideaway, John Dennis boasts a smart, new, state of the art workshop a stylish reception and some great views across the Buckinghamshire countryside... “

t used to be hard to find us,” says 4x4 specialist John Dennis, “but Uppings Farm is right opposite the Bucks Showground site, which a lot of people know, so we manage, even without a John Dennis sign out on the road.” Indeed the farm entrance is fairly easy to spot, its only a few minutes up the Buckingham Road (A413) from Aylesbury and is in a lovely rural setting. There’s no traffic jams, plenty of parking, a spacious workshop, a large, comfortable reception area complete with F1 memorabilia and motorsport souvenirs and a pleasant office where John’s wife Kirsty Dennis, Director of 4x4 Vehicle Hire Ltd, organises the hire company, the Dublin office and their motorhome rental business. John has 23 years Landrover experience, he started his own business servicing and repairing Landrovers and 4x4s some 12 years ago. His net has widened over the years and the workshop now services and MOTs most makes and models of vehicle. The bulk of his customers are Landrover owners though, who appreciate the company’s specialist expertise and reasonable labour rates, which are about half those charged by the main dealerships. “I grew up in Wingrave,” says John. “My next-door neighbour was always tinkering with cars at weekends and he’d get me helping. He got me into it and I still enjoy working with cars today.” When John left school he trained as a mechanic with a local main dealer. He worked John Dennis on Rovers, Jaguars and then Landrovers. Things were not going well at the dealership though and when the company was taken over John felt that standards were slipping: “Things changed,” says John, “customer care seemed to be getting really poor. I knew I could offer a better service if I set up on my own. A friend mentioned there was a unit going at Uppings Farm just off the main Buckingham Road, I came up and had a look and took it that day!” John worked on his own for the first five

Vale Life : June/July 2012

4x4s for Hire

years, until business had built enough to take on another technician: “There was two of us for a year or so,” says John, “and now we have three full time technicians. In 2006 we invested in the business and expanded into much larger premises and at that point Steve Thompson came on board, he now works closely alongside myself and Kirsty on all elements of the operation. “We are constantly investing in equipment, we have Autologic which is a diagnostic system for Landrovers, it’s basically the system a Landrover main dealer would use to diagnose faults and we’ve a separate system which covers most other vehicles. We have to keep up with developments and new models so our technicians go on courses two or three times a year. There’s a myth that if you have a new car you are tied to the dealer for servicing but it’s not true, your warranty is still valid if we do the work, it’ll just cost less! “We can deal with any vehicle but we are specialists in Landrovers - we’ve worked on so many we’ve generally come across any problems before, which helps us diagnose faults more quickly. “We pride ourselves on giving a good, honest, personal service. Whatever the customer

wants we aim to do it. We’ll always be truthful about the work we’ve done and if we think we’ve fixed a fault and it plays up again, there’s no argument, we’ll get straight back on it and put it right. It’s my name over the door so I personally make sure every job is done well. “We value every one of our customers and work hard to offer the service they want. We offer courtesy cars - usually a Landrover, which you wouldn’t get at most garages and we can collect and deliver vehicles if required.” “We’ve built up a good customer base over the years so we are generally busy, but we are always looking to move things forward. “We have started selling Landrovers now usually bought from customers, so they may well be vehicles we know and have looked after. We’ll do any extra work that is required to get them into tip-top condition ready for sale. We’ve usually got two or three available and if you are looking for a brand new model, we can recommend a good family dealership we know who offer an exceptional service.” In addition to the service and repair company John Dennis has a separate 4 x 4 hire business: “It is something I’ve always wanted to do, but never had the time to set up,” says John. “Kirsty researched the market and put together a business plan. She looked into domain names, building a website, branding,

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Technician Ryan Gomm

Diagnostics at work

Driver/valeter Malcolm Thorne

search engine optimisation, insurance... we launched and it has gone really well.” “We started 4x4 Vehicle Hire Ltd five years ago, with one 4x4,” says Kirsty. “We’ve now got 12. They are used all over the country, for weddings, holidays, business and leisure. People will often hire them for the towing ability, because they have a boat or caravan to move. We have a large overseas client base now too, who come back every year! We are very flexible and deliver 24 hours a day, 7 days a week which our customers love, especially when they are met after a long haul flight.” Kirsty has been working with John since 2005. She also grew up in Wingrave and from the age of 15 worked for the local Bucks Herald newspaper, until she left to have their first child, ten years later in 2005: “I was on maternity leave and a bit bored,” says Kirsty, “So I started looking into the 4x4 hire and it seemed there was a demand, so we set up a company

The workshop

Steve Thompson in reception and started hiring out our own Range Rover! We advertised in the local press and the phone didn’t stop ringing. We’ve gradually built a fleet up, of which the brand new Range Rover Evoque is proving particularly popular at the moment. We have a selection of Range Rovers, including the Range Rover Sport and Freelanders which are fitted with tow bars and can tow up to two tonnes. Prices are from £95 + VAT per day with full insurance. Our Freelander’s can be taken abroad too, European cover is only charged at £7.50 Kirsty Dennis per day. “The seven-seater Discovery 3s are very popular and available in various specs from basic models to full HSE including Sat Nav and full luxury leather interior. You can hire a Discovery 3 from Friday to Monday, with full

Motorhome for hire Left, inside Below, internal layout insurance, for only £325 + VAT. It is capable of towing up to three tonnes as well. “We’ve just opened a branch in Dublin, so if you are going across to Ireland and looking to hire a 4x4 while you are there, give us a call. For customers from abroad we are happy to arrange for a vehicle to be delivered to them at the airport, station or ferry terminal.” Following the success of the 4x4 rentals John Dennis is also now hiring out

Reception and waiting area Motorhomes. For Kirsty it’s a dream come true: “I’ve always loved caravans,” she says, “and when we took delivery of our first motorhome I couldn’t wait to give it a try! The kids absolutely loved it, they were so excited. It’s a great way to holiday, it’s so flexible, I’m just hoping they don’t get too popular, so we can get away again soon. It’s a house on wheels, you are mobile but have all your home comforts with you. We have a beautiful six berth motorhome available called Sky and a four berth called Ruby, they are named after our daughters. It’s easy to see why John Dennis is doing so well, John and Kirsty have boundless energy, they are focused on customer service, and have put together a great little team at Uppings Farm. They are not afraid to diversify and try new things either, their latest being the introduction of the new range of Landrover Bikes. The reception area is now displaying a selection of these fab and funky machines which really are the 2x2 equivalent of a Landrover - they look superb, they are solidly made and designed to cope with a variety of terrain while being built to last. There’s bikes for the commuter, for the sportsman, for the countryside and for the youngster and they are priced extremely competitively for the quality product you’d expect from Landrover. You can see the complete Landrover Bike range online at www.2x2worldwide.com Four wheels or two, John Dennis is definitely going places with a great selection of cost-effective services for local motorists. Now could be the time to jump on board. l John Dennis 4x4, Uppings Farm, Buckingham Road, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4DR Tel: 01296 640750 Mobile: 07768 173131 Email: hire@johndennis4x4.co.uk Email: kirsty@4x4vehiclehire.co.uk Web: www.johndennis4x4.co.uk Web: www.hire-motorhome.com Web: www.4x4vehiclehire.co.uk

Vale Life : June/July 2012

As the weather brightens Summer holidays beckon, which for many means a long car journey. Don’t risk breaking down miles from home though, check your vehicle is in ‘trip-top’ condition... “

e’ve been very busy,” says John Nixey of Motec MOT and Service Centre in Chinnor, “but I don’t think it’s an easy time for the garage trade as a whole. With money tight a lot of people are skipping their regular services and waiting until something goes wrong with their car before booking in. It’s not good for the vehicle in the long run though and can result in worse problems or even safety issues.” He’s right of course and at this time of year when many people are considering going on holiday by car, either here or to the continent, a simple service beforehand could save a lot of heartache. The last thing you want is to breakdown on holiday, miles from home or in a foreign country where there is a language barrier to contend with too. You want to be enjoying yourself, not sat in a garage! “At Motec we are happy to do a free whileyou-wait check of your lights, oil, water, tyres, window washer etc. so you know the basics are in place,” says John. “although if a major service is due it would be wise to consider it. We can service and MOT most vehicles, even long wheelbase 4x4s, campervans, motorhomes and lorries up to 3.5 tonnes and will give you a guide to cost beforehand.” Locally Motec are known to be especially good for tyres and exhausts and have some very reasonable prices on tyres. Because standard tyres don’t function well when it gets down towards freezing many divers now have an additional set of winter tyres, which they put on when the weather gets colder. They are

Vale Life : June/July 2012

John Nixey

actually compulsory in some countries and it is thought that they may become so here too, at some point. You shouldn’t have to worry about that for a few months though, although there are other regulations to consider, if motoring in Europe. The AA’s website at www. theaa.com has useful information on driving abroad. In France now for instance you are now expected to carry your own breathalyser kit in addition to the hi-vis jacket, emergency triangle, spare bulb kit and vehicle and licence paperwork! Back in Chinnor John has no trips planned for himself and wife Beckie this Summer, he will be on hand at Motec, (behind Claremont Automatics on Oakley Road), just along from the Co-op, ready to help and advise “We try

to offer a personal service,” says John. “Many of our customers have become friends over the years and we enjoy a bit of banter. It’s not a conveyor belt, we work as efficiently as we can but it’s always nice to take a moment and catch up with old customers. “If you are a new customer though, we’ll do our best to keep you motoring, so pop in for a free check and a chat.” l Motec, 40 Oakley Road, Chinnor OX39 4ES Telephone: 01844 353388 Website: www.motecchinnor.co.uk.

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he Thame and District annual Round Table Duck Race has had to be postponed this year until Sunday, July 15th, as a result of the recent rain. It has become a popular event with hundreds of race-goers tromping the banks of the River Thame from Thame Bridge at Priest End in the hope that their rubber duck will make it to the finish first. This year the organisers plan to release more than 2,000 Ducks into the river, a sight not to be missed. Prize vouchers of £50, £30 and £20 will be awarded for the first

Above right: the Duck drop, Below: Captain Ducky

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three ducks to reach the finish. All proceeds will go to local charities, worthy causes and sports clubs. Proceedings are presided over by the ebullient Captain Ducky complete with pirate hat and fearsome cutlass. Duck tickets can be bought from the town’s various sporting clubs and also from The Cross Keys Pub, Thame Town Council Information Desk and Lord Williams’s School. Ducks cost £2 each. Gates open at 10.45am for the race to start with the duck drop at 11am, see picture.

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

‘Pinero was a brilliant creator of characters,’ says actress Patricia Hodge, who is to star in the playwright’s 1887 comedy, Dandy Dick, at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre in July. ‘His comedy is about human frailties and it just goes to show, some things never change...’

inero’s comedy, Dandy Dick, is enjoying a revival, more than a century after he penned what is now considered something of a comedy classic. Starring Patricia Hodge, whose career spans film (Betrayal, Behind Enemy Lines),

theatre (Noises Off, Calendar Girls) and TV (a BAFTA nomination for Hotel du Lac and, of course, Miranda), and distinguished actor Nicholas Le Prevost, this new production is the first for 40 years and is due to entertain audiences at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Patricia Hodge and Nicholas Le Prevost star in Dandy Dick

Vale Life : June/July 2012

from Tuesday, July 17th to Saturday, July 21st. Not familiar with the play here at Vale Life, we thought we’d get the lowdown on this must-see production direct from the Hodge’s mouth, so to speak... “Dandy Dick is a farcical comedy,” says Patricia. “Like all the best comedies, it’s about the frailty of the human condition; about people of a certain standing getting themselves into a compromising situation and then seeing how they get out of it. “It’s set in the home of a Dean, a high-ranking man of the cloth who has two impecunious daughters and who is really struggling with money. He has to rebuild the roof on his church spire and very rashly puts out an edict that he will put £1,000 into a pot if nine other people match it, not thinking for one second that it would actually happen... But guess what - nine people do offer funding and the Dean must come up with £1,000 too. He gets himself in a real tiz. “Into this comes his sister (played by me). Being a racehorse owner and a rather racy individual, a whole series of mishaps ensues and the Dean finds himself gambling his money. It’s a great cast of really fun characters.” The play was originally written in 1887, but still appeals to a modern audience: “One can be constantly surprised by how something written 115 years ago can be as contemporary as this is,” says Patricia. “There are elements that are completely recognisable in our modern-day life, but I think a play will always endure if the characters are well-judged, and Pinero is a brilliant creator of characters. “My character is full of fun and joy, and there’s nothing better than bringing that to an audience. She’s very surprising; what you first see is not what you’re going to get. There’s quite a bit of development along the way with the characters.” We took the chance to ask Patricia about her incredibly varied career. The successful actress has been involved in both stage and screen, so how does theatre compare to TV and film work?

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Summer at The Waterside Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on... The Challis School of Dance presents As Seen on TV

June 24th

LiveScreen: Bolshoi Ballet Raymonda

June 24th

Roy Orbison and Friends

June 29th

Flawless & ENB Against Time Creative Learning: Flawless & English National Ballet Dance Workshop

July 1st

Comedy Club

July 6th

The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy Radio Show... Live!

July 14th

LiveScreen: NT Frankenstein

July 19th

Comedy Club Edinburgh Preview Sing-a-long-a ABBA Peppa Pig’s Treasure Hunt Sleeping Beauty LiveScreen: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time

“They require different techniques of acting,” says Patricia. “Theatre is the thing that if you really love the process of acting, you want to return to, because that’s where you grow and get better, and it’s just you and the audience. You know if something isn’t working because the audience will tell you. “The other media are very important for different reasons but your performance is never entirely in your hands, it’s in the hands of the person editing things afterwards. A good deal of what you’ve done might not be used. It’s not your edit, whereas in theatre you’re as good as what you give to the audience at any given moment. It is an absolutely direct response, you’re not waiting three months to see how the programme turns

RSC Julius Caesar

out. It’s there right in front of you.” Patricia is much loved for her comedy roles, but does she have a favourite comedian past or present, we wondered? “I think I’d have to say Tommy Cooper,” smiles Patricia. “He was such an incredibly funny man, and by doing so little. He was a genius. I have always loved comedians that do straight work as well because they can break your heart. The other side of the comic clown is the tragic clown - Norman Wisdom, he was wonderful, too. There was an actor called Brian Pringle, who I adored. He was marvellous at comedy, but, with a straight part he was wonderful. I was a huge fan. There’s a lot of good comic talent around.” Farce is often about mistaken identity, so if

July 9th-10th

Tringe Festival Presents Jenny Eclair & Richard Herring

Dandy Dick

Patricia Hodge, Nicholas Le Prevost and ‘Dandy Dick’

June 30th-July 1st

July 17th-21st July 27th July 28th July 28th-29th August 24th-25th September 6th

September 19th-22nd

Patricia could be someone else for a day, who would she pick? “This is difficult.” laughs Patricia. “I think there are attributes of many people one would like to have, but whether you’d want to step into their shoes is something different. There are bits of so many people that I would love to have. To have the wit of somebody like Graham Norton or Sandy Toksvig; that rapid wit, would wonderful.” Tickets for Dandy Dick are on sale now. l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Playing the part of teacher Miss Hall in ITV’s Grange Hill, Louise Ashbourne never thought she’d become a real life school principal one day...

tagecoach Theatre Arts was founded in 1988 by Stephanie Manuel and David Sprigg. Stephanie was a theatre performer, writer, director and teacher at the time, who was struggling to find theatre classes for her son, while David was her Barclays Bank consultant! It has grown into the largest network of parttime performing arts schools in the world, with around 40,600 students world-wide. Stagecoach provides quality training in the performing arts for children aged 4-18yrs: “Our aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes,” says Aylesbury Stagecoach Principal Louise Judge, “stretching young imaginations and building confidence. It’s for children who enjoy singing, dancing and drama.” Aylesbury Stagecoach meets on Saturdays, in the mornings at The Henry Floyd School and in the afternoon at Aylesbury High School: “We train 150 youngsters a week, in classes of up to 15 pupils” says Louise. “Our performing arts teachers are all trained, professional Louise Judge performers with a wealth of expertise and experience between them to pass on to our young students. “Early Stages is for ages 4-8 years. They have a 90 minute session which includes 30 minutes each of singing, dance and drama. The classes build confidence and develop life skills while the students have fun and make new friends. It’s perfect for little ones with big imaginations. Youngsters love to dress up and perform, here they can do it safely and progressively build their skills. “It’s a combination of performing and keeping the ethos of Stagecoach, which is to nurture and develop the self esteem of the child through performing arts. Some of the children would like to make a career of it, 44

Vale Life : June/July 2012

while others just enjoy the bonding family experience of learning creatively together.” Whether stagecoach students go on to perform professionally, like Harry Potter star Emma Watson, or Jamie Bell, who was a hit in Billy Elliot, is not the point, they learn valuable life skills: “‘At Aylesbury Stagecoach we create a happy environment where children of all abilities can interact with other children in an atmosphere of warmth, creativity and development.” The classes are very high-energy, hard working and driven, but they are fun too and everyone has a good time. Musical Theatre exams can also be taken. The school puts on a big show in the Spring term and goes to MAD, festival of music and dance at Waddesdon at the end of June, where this year they plan to put on a musical theatre showcase. Like her teachers, Louise also has a background in theatre. Originally from Shrewsbury, she went to drama school at Birmingham School of Speech Training and Dramatic Art and trained as an actress. “A Christmas Carol was being filmed in Shrewsbury,” she says, “and I got a lucky break and landed the part of Bob Cratchit’s eldest daughter Martha. I was only 17 and hadn’t started drama school then. “I worked as an actress until I had children, mainly film and television. I played French teacher Miss Hall in Grange Hill, my stage name was Louise Ashbourne. I started teaching drama at Stagecoach in Aylesbury and really enjoyed it, so when the opportunity arose, nine years ago I took on the franchise and running of the Aylesbury school.

“Now I’m Principal I’m fortunate enough to be surrounded by a dedicated team of gifted professionals with the skill and expertise to bring out the best in children of all abilities. I find it totally inspiring working with young people and watching them progress.” Louise lives in Haddenham with her husband and two children, Olivia 15 who attends Stagecoach and Max, 17. Stagecoach has an agency side for those keen to take things further which can put them forward for jobs. Two of Aylesbury’s girls, sisters Heather and Rebecca, recently appeared in the McDonald’s Happy Meals mascotathon commercial. Each school is regularly inspected, ‘Ofsted style’, by Stagecoach to ensure they are run safely and in accordance with Stagecoach guidelines. There are strict child protection measures in place, staff are CRB checked and the teachers operate under the watchful eye of Louise, ensuring each can play their part and flourish under the spotlights. l Stagecoach Aylesbury Principal: Louise Judge Tel: 01296 747758 Email: aylesbury@stagecoach.co.uk Website: www.stagecoach.co.uk/aylesbury

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Vale Life : June/July 2012

l Column:

ith the Jubilee just under the bridge, and the Olympics on the horizon, patriotism is big this summer. You might even say that red, white and blue is the new black. And yet, much as the triumvirate are linked in Britain with the Union Flag, they also fly in stars and stripes on the 4th of July, and again in tri-coloured bands on the 14th in France. It may be cheeky to mention American Independence Day, seeing as the independence was

Ruby Moukli ‘Tomayto Tomaaahto’

gained from, err, you lot. And that Bastille Day commemorates revolution against monarchy may appear incongruous with recent royal jubilations. But I like to think we can leave history aside and embrace the ‘Special Relationship’ and ‘Entente Cordiale’, respectively. Especially when there’s cake involved. And, thanks to the infamous words of Marie Antoinette, cake is most definitely involved. Luckily, this red, white and blue sponge, a summery version of the Victoria Sandwich, is a winner no matter which anthem you sing before eating it! l Ruby Moukli is a local writer who strives to ‘shop locally and cook globally’. She writes ‘A Bite of Britain’ for Honest Cooking Magazine and blogs at www.tomayto tomahto.com

Patriotic Sponge (adapted from Nigella Lawson’s Victoria Sponge) What You Need: For cake: 200g self-raising flour  25g cornflour 225g butter, softened 1 Tbsp vanilla extract 225g caster sugar 4 large eggs   4 Tbsp milk  For filling and topping: 225ml heavy cream  1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp caster sugar, divided 4 Tbsp raspberry jam 2 handfuls fresh raspberries 2 handfuls fresh blueberries

What You Do: 1. Preheat oven to 180C/350F/gas mark 4. Grease and line two 21cm sandwich cake tins.  2. Sift together the self-raising flour and cornflour, then set aside.  3. In a large bowl, mix butter, vanilla extract and sugar until fluffy. 4. Add eggs one by one, alternating each one with a spoonful of the sifted flour and cornflour. 5. Finally, add remaining flour and cornflour and milk, and mix well for one minute. 6. Divide evenly between cake tins and bake for 25 minutes, or until the top springs back when touched.  7. Remove cakes from oven and leave to cool for about 10 minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack. Cool completely before filling.  8. For the filling and topping, whip the cream together with the vanilla extract and 1 tsp caster sugar until stiff. 9. Cover the top of one cake with jam, then fresh raspberries (reserving a few for decoration), then half of the cream filling.  10. Carefully place the other cake on top and press down gently. 11. Cover with remaining cream filling, then blueberries, and finally sprinkle with remaining caster sugar.

Win dinner for two at The Seven Stars

he Seven Stars at Dinton was built in the 17th Century and is now a Grade II listed building. It’s a pretty village pub with an inglenook fireplace in the bar, a beamed lounge and attractively refurbished dining room. But despite its long history and inviting facade, last year it faced the wrecking ball after pub chain Punch Taverns decided to sell up. In stepped a group of 65 determined locals, who clubbed together to raise the £360,000 needed to buy the freehold and save the pub for the community. And to top it, rural grants organisation LEADER supported the group’s purchase with a grant of £50,000. Stephanie Guiraute, who will be known to many locals as ‘the French lady who used to work at The Crown

Vale Life : May/June 2012

in Cuddington’ is now managing The Seven Stars and, consequently, the menu features some delicious French classics, such as French Onion Soup with cheese crouton, Chicken Cassoulet with Toulouse Sausages, lardons, haricot blanc and fine green beans, and Coq au Vin, as well as modern twists on pub fare such as the Stars burger, Pork steak with bourbon and apple purée, and warm

Homemade Scotch Egg with chutney. Vegetarians are also well catered for with tempting dishes such as Butternut Squash Risotto with nutmeg cream, or Stack of Grilled Goat’s Cheese with couscous, mushrooms, peppers and pesto to whet the appetite. If you just want a light bite with your pint or Pinot, there’s a daily menu of sandwiches on the specials board in the bar, usually featuring cheese and red onion with homemade chutney, brie, bacon and cranberry, or sausage and wholegrain mustard. On Tuesdays, why not

head along for Fizz & Chips night, when you can get two glasses of Prosecco and two portions of fish and chips for £20. If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning dinner for two, with a bottle of house wine, at The Seven Stars, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk In which village can you find The Seven Stars ? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by July 20th. l The Seven Stars, Stars Lane, Dinton, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8UL Tel: 01296 7489000 Website: www.sevenstarsdinton.com

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Competition is fierce among restaurants these days but while some rely on BOGOFs and vouchers, others, like The Angel at Long Crendon, concentrate on creating truly fabulous food...

he Angel at Long Crendon is owned and run by chef Trevor Bosch and wife Annie. The couple are in their 15th year at the pretty 16th century coaching inn. The inn has five bedrooms and a comfortable bar area but is primarily about eating and Trevor’s superb cuisine. Originally from Surrey, Trevor trained at Brooklands Catering College and with the Sheraton Hotel Group which included a stint in Australia, inspiring a passion for fish dishes and an interest in oriental cooking. He was head chef at Studley Priory, just up the road in Horton-Cum-Studley, before moving to The Angel in 1997. The Angel offers fine dining at reasonable prices in a relaxed atmosphere. There is always a good selection of vegetarian options and fish is something of speciality. “We take old classics and refine them,” says Trevor. “We’ve just introduced our Spring/ Summer menu, which features some lovely seasonal, local produce and we’ve brought back our Tapas Platters, as a sharing starter or light lunch option. There’s seafood: Citrus Home-Cured Gravadlax with Chive Crème Fraîche, Tiger Prawns with Saffron Mayonnaise, Pan Fried Scallops on Pea and Mint Purée and Cornish Squid with Chorizo and Avocado Salsa; and meat: Chicken Liver Parfait, Crispy Duck and Chorizo Wontons, Roasted Red Peppers in Parma Ham and Grilled Black Pudding with Pancetta Bacon. It’s asparagus season so we’re running a special menu with fresh local asparagus, (often from Rectory Farm at Stanton St John), served hot with Hollandaise Sauce, with Crayfish Gremolata or grilled with Poached Duck Egg and Crispy Pancetta, or Cod with Vinaigrette, wrapped in Parma Ham or with Balsamic Dressing and Parmesan. It’s also the season for Cornish Samphire

The Angel conservatory

The Editor looking unusually happy, about to tuck in to his Sea Bream and Samphire

Left: Meat Tapas Platter Right: Pillows of Riccotta Gnocchi with Pea and Broad Beans à la Française

which is naturally salty and lovely with Roast Cherry Tomatoes and fresh wild Cornish Sea Bream.” Trevor has fresh fish delivered from the coast daily, so it’s worth checking the specials board to see what the catch of the day is. I tried the Crispy Fillet of Cornish Sea Bream with Cherry Tomatoes, Samphire and a Saffron and Basil sauce and can vouch for the combination. It’s light, juicy and bursting with freshness and flavour, ideal teamed with a side dish of sautéed potatoes to soak up the sauce! “Strawberries are also in season,” says Trevor, “you can have them poached with Grand Marnier, as a Tarte Tatin, or in an Eton Mess.” I’d never had poached strawberries before, but they are delish! For meat eaters there’s mouthwatering combinations of differently prepared meats, for instance a Trio of Sandy Lane Pork comes from Tiddington and features Pork Fillet

Wrapped In Parma Ham, Cider Glazed Pork Belly and Braised Cheek all on a Potato Purée with Roast Baby Fennel and Morel Mushroom Sauce, or there’s a duo of new season Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb on Crispy Lamb Shoulder with Anna Potato, Curly Cale, Roast Artichoke and Basil Jus. A fabulous destination for a special occasion, The Angel also runs excellent value fixed price menus, which make it an affordable treat whenever you feel peckish! At lunchtimes you can have two courses for £14.95, or three courses for £19.95. In the evenings it’s £19.95 or £24.95. Drop in for a drink on the terrace and peruse the menu. l The Angel Restaurant, 47 Bicester Road, Long Crendon, Bucks, HP18 9EE Tel: 01844 208 268 Web: www.angelrestaurant.co.uk Twitter follow: @theangeluk

From left: Seafood Tapas Platter, Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb on Crispy Lamb Shoulder, Trio of Sandy Lane Pork, Eton Mess dessert,... mmm...

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Henley Festival is a spectacular annual event. A fabulous five-night party when you can glam up and mingle with the beautiful people amid the magical mix of art, music, food and glamour on the banks of the Thames...

ummer stalwart the Henley Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary with a star-studded line-up in its fantastic location alongside the River Thames. Artistic director Stewart Collins says: “To celebrate the festival’s landmark birthday we’ve really pulled out all the stops. This year’s programme promises to be one of our most sensational to date. After all, 30 years is an achievement for any event, and we wanted to see our guests celebrate in style. The Henley Festival is renowned for leaving our guests with magical memories, and this will be an unmissable year for regulars and newcomers alike.” The quintessential English summer party takes place on July 4th-8th, promising five nights, seven stages, four art galleries, Albert and Michel Roux Jr dining and 25,000 revellers in black-tie. Along the riverbank world-class acts from the worlds of jazz, opera, pop, theatre, comedy and cabaret entertain while pop-up art boutiques and sculpture lawns bring major galleries and artists to the festival. Headline acts confirmed include Sting, who opens the festival on July 4th. Welsh opera sensation Katherine Jenkins will be joined on stage on July 5th by US singer/ songwriter Nathan Pacheco and the Military Wives. On July 6th, it’s the turn of one of 2011’s biggestselling classical artists Laura Wright, acclaimed tenor Alfie Boe, and cowriter of the Olivier award-winning musical Matilda, Tim Minchin. Lulu is joined by Peridot, The London Community Gospel Choir

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Sting

Pic by Adrian Brooks, Imagewise

Katherine Jenkins and one-time ‘boy’, now ‘man’, band Blue on July 7th. X-Factor finalist Olly Murs will be closing the festival on July 8th. The headline festivities finish each night with a dazzling firework display at around 10pm before partygoers dance into the night at the festival’s resident nightclub, The Club. Billed by Vogue magazine as one of the most unmissable events of the summer season, the dress code is strictly black tie. Ladies, come resplendent in sizzling cocktail dresses and jewels, or gorgeous evening gowns fit for a summer’s evening; for gentlemen, the quintessentially English black tie with a twist of eccentricity and a dash of daring is the order of the evening. Younger festival-goers also put on their best bib and tucker (strictly no jeans or fleeces). As well as music, the festival has a great line-up of comedy and cabaret

acts. Stand-up comics include Have I Got News For You regular Dr Phil Hammond (July 4th), Fascinating Aïda star Sarah-Louise Young (July 6th) and charismatic Canadian comic Craig Campbell (July 7th). Meanwhile, the festival’s signature cabaret act, The Roving Company of Eccentrica, will amuse, entertain, surprise and shock guests with their unique brand of roaming street performances. As well as candlelit fine Lulu dining at the Roux at the Riverside restaurant, there’s a choice of six brasseries, including the Terrace Restaurant or Café du Soir, - or have a more relaxed bite at one of numerous street-food concessions. Henley Festival is also the perfect opportunity to catch the best in contemporary arts. The visual arts programme includes FEAST!, an exceptional range of selling exhibitions showcasing major

international established artists and emerging talent. This year’s highlights include the serious surrealism of Alexander Vorobyev, abstract contemporary art by Jeffrey Kroll and Nicolas Ruston, “Carbon Art” specialist Alastair Gibson, Aboriginal art from Australia, body painted optical illusions created live by Emma Hack, and the annual sculpture garden featuring the work of British sculptor Roland Piche and Auguste Rodin’s iconic The Thinker. The Henley Festival is a not-forprofit organisation, and all proceeds go to local and national charities across the Thames Valley. This includes creating and funding the Henley Festival Orchestra, which provides more than 80 young people with a musical instrument, tuition and performance opportunities. l Henley Festival, July 4th-8th, Booking office: 01491 843404 Website: www. henley-festival. co.uk

Olly Murs

l Column:

Matt Brown ‘One Hungry Gent’

A close shave for brains and brawn

Matt Brown

ONE Hungry Gent

he bunting is down, the complaints to the BBC sent off and my red, white and blue knickers washed and folded away. The Diamond Jubilee has come and gone and the conveyor belt of this year’s events trundles on bringing the Olympics into view. I’m not going to lie to you, we’ve been pals too long for that, but I’m not much of a royalist. However, I l Listen to Matt Brown on Heart did enjoy the spirit of friendliness Breakfast With Matt and Michelle (weekdays 6-9am 102.6FM). and community that seemed to Tweet Matt at twitter.com/frazzleddaddy break out across the four corwww.onehungrygent.blogspot.com ners of the Vale. People in towns and villages tipped their caps to During the celebrations I heard neighbours and strangers alike, a story about a certain grown men were allowed to paint the faces What more fitting member of the royal family and a certain of small children tribute than Zoo foodstuff. Don’t they didn’t know Magazine’s ‘Topless worry though, without social it’s not like the services getting Diamond Boobilee’? story about the certain involved but if there member of the royal family and the was a more fitting tribute to glass-topped coffee table. Now, I Her Maj than Zoo magazine’s “Topless Diamond Boobilee” then I can’t be entirely sure of the truth of the story so I will change names don’t want to know about it.

Vale Life : June/July 2012

these crappy eggs that makes the to protect the innocent. Let’s just call this royal personage ‘Prince C’ moment I get it spot on all the more delicious. (aka The Welshman aka Grumpy Architect). Actually, whether or Here’s the deal with the Prince. His staff are so keen that he should not the story is true is unimportant have his every whim attended to because like all stories it leads us to a bigger truth. that every time ‘Prince C (aka The Polo Prince aka Baldychops) Apparently, ‘Prince C’ (aka FA Cup Head aka The Kilt) loves a wants a boiled egg for breakers his cook makes him six. Each egg is boiled egg for breakfast. And who then cut open and inspected, five can blame him? A boiled egg can be a perfectly wonderful breakfast are discarded and the one that most matches the prince’s idea of if the white is set just so and the yolk warm and eggy perfection is The perfect boiled served to him. runny. Personally I also favour a few egg, can be like a So, just in case mini volcano buttered soldiers you missed it, each time Prince that, when dipped, push the yolk up C (aka Veg Talker aka Overpriced and over the lip of the cracked Biscuits) has a boiled egg shell like a delifor breakfast it cious, non-deadly is perfect. My volcano. question is this. If In my life, this the only time you morning perfechave a boiled egg it is perfect, can tion happens rarely. What with you truly appreciate the perfect using eggs that are a bit old, or boiled egg? making sure the kids have got their breakfast, by the time I sit down l Hear Matt’s latest story from to eat, my eggs are usually a bit under or over done. I would contest The Creepy Valley here... http:// thecreepyvalley.com/podcasts though that it is the memory of

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Your local, original independent festival Vale Life : June/July 2012

Great festival taster gigs The South

7:30pm

...still beautiful

£17

Dave Hemingway and Ali Wheeler, lead singers with The Beautiful South bring back all the original hits you know and love.

Bellowhead

The Southbank Centres band in residence & BBC Radio 2 favourites.

Abigail Washburn (USA)

£20

Family Theatre...

£9

The Way Back Home

7:30pm 2pm

Created by the team behind The Night Before Christmas with original music by the composers of The Gruffalo.

An afternoon of

Americana... with Larkin Poe (USA)

2pm

Old Man Luedecke (Canada)

Edward II £17

English Reggae with...

7:30pm

Words and Music...with

The Ian McMillan Orchestra A scintillating show of poems, music & comedy.

2pm

Walsh and Pound

A Celtic Dance Party...with Peatbog Faeries

“Idlewild” front man

Roddy Woomble

2pm

Vale Life : June/July 2012

£17

Stunning songwriting & heartfelt delivery from the man who has supported REM, U2 and The Rolling Stones amongst others.

£17

Or do a whole festival day from £32 Or the whole 5 nights 4 days from £119

Thinking of joining us for 1 or 2 of these great For Children, Towersey is like nothing else. 5 one-off gigs? From as little as £12 extra you could dedicated venues packed all day long with play, do a whole “Festival Day”. From our huge range laughs, things to create and join in with. The of hands-on activities through the hundreds best children’s festival on the scene from as of gigs (over 50 artists a day), to Street Theatre little as £19. on the Showground, Lantern Making, loads of So for new music and new discoveries Ceilidh Dancing, Family Theatre, Big Names come and finish your summer at Towersey. and always something new to discover. See the website for the full day by day artist World class cuisine, over 20 Real list Ales & Ciders and something magical that you only get with the escapism of a Towersey Festival.

Pack the tent and the kids and head for a more beautiful world, the land of music, arts and treats that is, The Towersey Festival...

£17

One of Scotland’s best known dance bands

7:30pm

hen songwriter Paul Heaton wanted to call time on The Beautiful South, his fellow band members decided they didn’t, and so The South was born. Still featuring original band members, including the distinctive singing duo Dave Hemingway and Ali Wheeler, The South have got a hectic schedule of gigs ahead of them this year, not least opening the 48th Towersey Festival on August 23rd. As well as reminiscing with classics such as Song for Whoever, Perfect Ten and Don’t Marry Her, the band will have plenty of new material to bring to loyal fans. The South are just the start of the five-night festival, with Radio 2 favourites Bellowhead headlining on Friday night (August 24th) with their unique 11-piece Steampunk/Folk mix. Other acts due to perform on the Venue 65 stage during the festival include Edward II, Peatbog Faeries, Roddy Woomble, Larkin Poe and The Ian McMillan Orchestra. Despite boasting hundreds of gigs, The Towersey Festival is much more than a great line-up; it offers all the buzz, atmosphere, magic and colour that you would expect from any major festival but in a chilled, family-friendly village fete kind of way in beautiful surroundings on the Oxfordshire/ Buckinghamshire border. Towersey is the ultimate pick ’n’ mix fest — you can dip in and out and see bands pay-per-view style, or you can pop

£17

Armagh Rhymers

The South

MUSIC, DANCE, CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL , WORKSHOPS, YOUTH PROGRAMME, SPOKEN WORD & COMEDY, REAL ALE & CIDER, STREET THEATRE, VISUAL ARTS, FILM, FESTIVAL FOOD & SOMETHING SIMPLY MAGICAL

Tradalympics, to the Children’s Festival. Box Office 023 8071 New for this year is The Rainbow, a 1818 dedicated marquee for the young folk, where they’ll find masses to keep them entertained, including baby reflexology, percussion sessions, messy crafts, the Teddies’ Hospital, a chance to join Towersey’s famous Ceilidh band Towzer, or the Children’s Festival choir, a family evening concert by Roy Bailey and John Kirkpatrick, and a magical performance by unique folk theatre ensemble the Armagh Rhymers. The organisers say it’s more than just a festival, it’s ‘another lovelier world’, and the thousands who make Towersey part of their summer every year couldn’t agree more. festival office 01629 827017

A4_5mm_Ad.indd 1

along and visit the showground for the day; buy a Day Season Ticket that will get you into everything on any given day; or go for the whole Towersey experience with a Full Season Ticket. As well as eight performance stages, there’s street theatre, poetry, art and sculpture, as well as a massive real ale bar and plenty of world cuisine to keep revellers refreshed. There’s also plenty of fun for all the family from the Shooting Roots youth project, featuring folk workshops and the

l Towersey Festival, Towersey, nr Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3QF Tel: 01629 827016 Website: www.towerseyfestival.com Venue 65 events cost from £17 per adult, £8 for under-18s. Day Season tickets cost £42 (£32 Friday) for adults, £35 (£25 Friday) for youths, £25 (£19 Friday) for under-12s; under-fives free. Full season tickets cost from £119 for adults, £83 for youths, £51 for under-12s Camping is available at an extra charge.

08/06/2012 15:31

Your local, original independent festival

7:30pm

Great festival taster gigs The South ...still beautiful £17 Dave Hemingway and Ali Wheeler, lead singers with The Beautiful South bring back all the original hits you know and love.

Bellowhead

The Southbank

Centres band in residence & BBC Radio 2 favourites.

Abigail Washburn (USA)

Family Theatre...

£9

The Way Back Home 7:30pm

2pm

Created by the team behind The Night Before Christmas with original music by the composers of The Gruffalo.

An afternoon of

Americana...

Old Man Luedecke (Canada)

with Larkin Poe (USA)

£20

£17

Edward II £17

2pm

English Reggae with...

7:30pm

Words and Music...with

The Ian McMillan Orchestra A scintillating show of poems, music & comedy.

2pm

Walsh and Pound

£17

A Celtic Dance Party...with Peatbog Faeries

£17

One of Scotland’s best known dance bands

7:30pm

“Idlewild” front man

Roddy Woomble Stunning songwriting & heartfelt delivery from the man who has supported REM, U2 and The Rolling Stones amongst others.

2pm

£17

Or do a whole festival day from £32 Or the whole 5 nights 4 days from £119

Thinking of joining us for 1 or 2 of these great one-off gigs? From as little as £12 extra you could do a whole “Festival Day”. From our huge range of hands-on activities through the hundreds of gigs (over 50 artists a day), to Street Theatre on the Showground, Lantern Making, loads of Ceilidh Dancing, Family Theatre, Big Names and always something new to discover. World class cuisine, over 20 Real Ales & Ciders and something magical that you only get with the escapism of a Towersey Festival.

For Children, Towersey is like nothing else. 5

dedicated venues packed all day long with play, laughs, things to create and join in with. The best children’s festival on the scene from as little as £19.

So for new music and new discoveries

come and finish your summer at Towersey.

See the website for the full day by day artist list

MUSIC, DANCE, CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL, WORKSHOPS, YOUTH PROGRAMME, SPOKEN WORD & COMEDY, REAL ALE & CIDER, STREET THEATRE, VISUAL ARTS, FILM, FESTIVAL FOOD & SOMETHING SIMPLY MAGICAL

Box Office

023 8071 1818 festival office 01629

827017

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Pic by Stuart Bebb

Music, drama, dancing, and even Laughter Yoga, you’d be mad to miss MAD about Waddesdon...

eturning for its seventh from Justine Hart. Local artist Stu year, the annual MAD McLellan will be creating pieces about Waddesdon inspired by the new exhibitions at summer music and arts Waddesdon Manor, Taking Time: fest offers something for everyone Chardin’s Boy Building a House – music, art, dance and drama, and of Cards and Other Paintings in plentiful supply. Every year, the and Playing, Learning, Flirting: Rothschilds’ grounds are transPrinted Board Games from formed to make room for 2,500 18th Century France. performers, including schools, There will be a primary school community groups, individuals, art competition with a prize of amateurs and professionals, and for £1,000 for the winning school, and those who want to join in the fun, Aylesbury College will transform there’s an inspiring range of workthe manor’s wine cellars with an art shops on offer. exhibition. Last year, more ‘Every year Waddesdon’s Workshops during than 15,000 weekend include grounds are transformed the visitors flocked to cheerleading, to make room for the open-air event, Hawaiian hula, and plans for 2012 belly dancing, 2,500 performers’ promise that this drama, ukulele, could be the best yet. street dance, and even a Shrek More than 100 acts are already taster session with theatre school confirmed for the weekend of June West End Stage. 30th and July 1st, celebrating the Throughout the weekend, best of talent in Buckinghamshire wannabe pop stars with the Ox and beyond. Performers include Factor will get the chance to record street dance troop Urban Strides, their own single with Oxfordshire vocalist Rowan Carter and African Music Rooms, and if you’re drumming looking for a fun way to destress, how about Laughter Yoga sessions, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. For the younger visitors, there will be a fun Children’s Zone, with Peppa Pig making special appearances throughout the

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Pic by Daryl John

day on Saturday. On both Saturday and Sunday there will be lots of fun activities on offer, including storytelling from the Roald Dahl Museum, face painting, children’s rides, craft activities and much more. For the full MAD about Waddesdon programme, log on to the website at www.madabout waddesdon.co.uk. The event is free of charge for National Trust members and under-fives. Family tickets cost £25, adults £10, and children £5. Tickets include entry to the grounds but exclude entry to the house. Visitors wishing to visit the house need to purchase an additional timed ticket for this purpose, in the usual way, either in advance

online or by phone through the booking office or via the ticket office in front of the manor on the day of their visit. Alongside MAD about Waddesdon, the manor is also staging two Music at Waddesdon concerts. Tenor Russell Watson will be performing on June 29th, while on June 30th bop along to West End spectacular Dancing in the Streets. Tickets are on sale now both online or by phoning the Waddesdon booking office. l MAD about Waddesdon, Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, nr Aylesbury, HP18 0JH Tel: 01296 653230 Website: www.madabout waddesdon.co.uk; www.waddesdon.org.uk Booking office: 01296 653226

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Ever wondered if Aunty Ethel’s diamond tiara is worth a cent, or whether to insure that Rolf Harris scribbledydoo? Scour your attics and gather your heirlooms, the Antiques Roadshow is in town...

towe House, the magnificent Grade I listed neoclassical palace set in 400 acres of landscaped park near Buckingham, was stripped of its contents some 150 years ago. The Temple-Grenville family owned Stowe for most of its history. Earl Temple largely completed the house circa 1770, his son became the 1st Duke of Buckingham and Chandos in 1822, the only dukedom created by George IV. Money was tight though and when the 2nd Duke, at vast expense, completely redecorated the State Rooms for a three-day visit by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in January 1845, it was a final extravagance that led to the first Great Sale of Stowe. The auction, in 1848, lasted 37 days and most of the paintings, works of art and state furniture came under the gavel, raising a mere £75,000 against debts of £1.5 million. The following year over 6,000 documents were sold and further sales were conducted in 1849. The family’s dwindling fortune and the loss of the heir in the Great War necessitated the auction in 1921 of the entire estate: the house, gardens, furniture and even bed linen. The following year the house was bought by property developer Harry Shaw who intended to donate the estate to the nation but could not raise an endowment to accompany the gift, so he too was forced to sell. The house was stripped of every fixture and fitting, all sold as individual lots and Stowe lost many of its important interior features. Stowe was under threat of demolition but escaped the bulldozers thanks to the foundation of Stowe School in 1923. For over a decade now, the Stowe House Preservation Trust (SHPT) has worked hard to restore the building and encourage students and visitors to understand its importance. Most of the interior restoration has been completed, the magnificent south front has been repaired, the Large Library restored and an exhibition space

Fiona Bruce beneath the central Marble Saloon prepared. The conservation of the delightfully painted Music Room is underway and William Kent’s North Hall is next on the list. Finally, the balustrades before the south front will be repaired, the thirty spun copper urns reinstated as sponsorship allows. The SHPT is now engaged in a massive Treasure Hunt to track down and photograph the items that have disappeared over the years and to create a ‘virtual’ collection of the paintings and works of art that once filled the sumptuous rooms - The Lost Treasures of Stowe. It is possible that in July, when BBC One’s Antiques Roadshow visits Stowe House, lost treasures may reappear, brought by members of the public for the Roadshow experts to examine. Photographs and drawings of the interiors are welcome as they may give vital clues as to just how the interiors once looked. The ever popular Sunday evening

programme will be filming for its 35th series in the grounds of Stowe House, on Thursday, 19th July, 2012. The doors open at 9.30am and close at 4.30pm. Entry to the show is free. It is presenter Fiona Bruce’s fifth year with the Roadshow. The local celebrity, who lives near Thame says, “Presenting the Antiques Roadshow is one of those rare and lucky coincidences in television when you get to work on a show that you already love to watch. Exploring the human story behind every object is what makes

Antiques Roadshow fascinating and everyone loves the agony and ecstasy of the ‘what’s it worth? moment. It isn’t just about antiques - it’s history, beauty and drama all wrapped up in one.” Some of Britain’s leading antiques and fine arts specialists will be on hand to offer free advice and valuations to visitors, who are invited to raid their attics and bring along their family heirlooms, household treasures and car boot bargains for inspection by the experts. People with large pieces of furniture or other big items can send details and photographs of their objects to: ANTIQUES ROADSHOW, BBC, Whiteladies Road, Bristol BS8 2LR or email them to: antiques.roadshow@bbc.co.uk. It may be possible to arrange to look at the item in advance and organise transportation to the venue. The last series, watched by an average of six million viewers, included some amazing finds such as a painting by Rolf Harris bought for £50 and valued at £50,000, a beer flagon made from Oliver Cromwell’s horse, the medical chest taken on Shackleton’s 1914 expedition to the Antarctic and a toilet roll which was rejected by the Beatles at the Abbey Road Studios. Series Editor Simon Shaw says: “The team are all looking forward to visiting Stowe House. It’s always exciting to see what will come to light on the day. We regularly see between 1500 and 2000 visitors on the day but everyone will get to see an expert.” l More information can be found at: www.bbc.co.uk/antiquesroadshow

Stowe House

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Try your hand at everything from printingmaking to pottery, or simply observe masters of their crafts, at Waterperry’s global arts extravaganza...

f Bucks Open Studios has left you feeling inspired, head to Art in Action for four days of total creative immersion. One of the longestrunning festivals of fine art and master craftsmanship in the UK, the event is crammed with 400 artists demonstrating their work and allows visitors the rare opportunity to witness the creative process at first hand, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, calligraphy, illustration, glass, metalwork, jewellery, textiles and woodwork. Founded in 1977, the festival’s backdrop is the grounds of Waterperry House near Thame, where this year, to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee, Art in Action has gathered a collection of Commonwealth artists from across the globe, including New Zealand surrealist Bruce Luxford, Cypriot fabric artist Stella Xenophondos Australian graphic designer Dave Wood and Indian master stone and wood carver Ganesh Bhat. There will also be live music and performing arts from around the world, as well as lectures on a diverse array of subjects such as photography, jewellery, the Golden Proportion and letter carving. Always one of the most popular highlights, this year’s practical classes, for adults and children, include mosaics, glass engraving, jewellery making, sculpture, painting and more. Many of them John Stroomer

Vale Life : June/July 2012

John O’Connor sculpture

Hikmet Barutcugil

David Caldwell will be run by some of the UK’s most prestigious colleges, including The Guild of Glass Engravers, City & Guilds of London Art School and The Prince’s School of Traditional Arts. As well as demonstrations and practical help for enthusiasts and budding artists, there will be plenty of arts and crafts available to buy from the 100 designermakers in the Craft Market, as well as all the art materials and books you could want. Art in Action continues to be an inspiring celebration of creativity as well as a great day out for families and art lovers. Staffed by more than 600 volunteers on each of its four days, people come year after year – often as much for the atmosphere as for the myriad works on show.

And if you want to take a break from the art and appreciate the setting, there are guided tours of Waterperry Gardens and a wide range of refreshments, including organic and artisan food stalls and a good selection of wines. Art in Action takes place at Waterperry Gardens, near Wheatley, OX33 1JZ, from July 19th-22nd, open 10am-5.30pm daily. For more information, call 0207 381 3192, email info@artinaction.org.uk, or visit www.artinaction.org.uk.

Heather Konschuh

The Art Academy

l VALE LIFE SPECIAL OFFER: TWO TICKETS FOR £20! Art in Action is offering Vale Life readers the chance to save £10 when you buy two standard adult-entry tickets online. Tickets can be used on any day. To book, simply visit www.artinaction.org.uk and use the unique promotional code VALLFE (Terms and conditions apply).

Jump4 Timbuktu

Paul Antonio

Waterperry House

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Kingsbury Square will be keeping it loud and local, while hosting the area’s best bands for the fab and free Aylesbury Festival Weekender...

looking forward to headlining: “It’s terrific to be given the opportunity to play an open-air festival for the good people of Aylesbury. We already have an amazing following in the town, but we are really hoping to reach out to people who have not heard the band yet.” Sunday will focus mainly on original up-and-coming local bands and singer-songwriters, from heavy rock to indie and acoustic pop. Dumb Angel are up first, followed by Max Unplugged, Dead Cells, Abbie Broom, Palahniuk, Tinlin, Rosie Vanier, Sian Cross and headliners !nDefinately. Hard-rocker Dead Cells say: “We’re very happy to be playing the Aylesbury Festival, especially

uly heralds the return of the Aylesbury Festival Weekender, a family-friendly and free music festival organised by Aylesbury Showcase on behalf of Aylesbury Town Council. Now in its fifth year, the event takes over Aylesbury’s Kingsbury Square on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd July (11am-4pm), belting out an eclectic mix of music through the ages, including rock ’n’ roll, punk and new wave, ska, nineties and noughties pop and rock, plus a bit of acoustic blues thrown in, performed across two stages. Saturday kicks off with Almost Midnight, Pubcrawl, The Synthetix, Clare Free, The Stylettes and Katie Buckhaven. Skasouls UK are

Aylesbury Festival Weekender 2012

Katie Buckhaven as it is our home town and we’ll be playing in front of family, friends and fans who’ve supported us right from the off. People who haven’t seen us before can expect an energetic performance from a band aiming for big things.” Sian Cross

Rosie Vanier l For more information about the event and The New Roxette’s interviews with all the bands, visit www.aylesburyshowcase.com

Clare Free

ON BEHALF OF THE AYLESBURY TOWN COUNCIL

Saturday 21st July & Sunday 22nd July Kingsbury,Aylesbury Town Centre Saturday 21

July *

FREE EVENT TO

lemonrock.com/ skasouls

14:00

16:00 15:00

katiebuckhaven.com

clarefree.com

tinlinmusic.com

13:30

palahniuk.co.uk

facebook.com/ abbiebroom95

13:00 thesynthetix.com

12:00 TO

11:30

12:30 lemonrock.com/ pubcrawl

11:00

11:30 TO

12:00 11:00

11:30

14:00

12:30

rosievanier.com

12:00

siancross.co.uk

Rosie Vanier

13:00

12:30

13:30 thestylettes.com

12:30 13:00

14:00 14:30

13:00 14:00

indefinately.com

14:30 TO

15:00

22nd July

15:00

15:00 16:00

11am – 4pm

* Sunday

almostmidnight.net

11:30

Skasouls UK

deadcells.co.uk

Max Unplugged Dumb Angel

AylesburyShowcase.com Aylesbury Town Centre is an alcohol free zone Alcohol is not permitted in unlicensed areas * Line-up subject to change

Vale Life : June/July 2012

The popular Mind, Body & Spirit show heads south for a weekend of pure relaxation at Stoke Mandeville Stadium

hen life gets stressful, we may head to the gym or reach for a glass of wine, but there could be another way to truly soothe your soul. BSSK’s Mind, Body & Spirit event at Stoke Mandeville Stadium on August 18th-19th is dedicated to alternative and complementary therapies to promote a more holistic approach to healing. There’ll be plenty of alternative and complementary practitioners on hand to chat to and you can try out a sample treatment such as Reiki or Amatsu. The chance to consult with a medium or psychic to receive life guidance or help with a particular issue will also be available. You’ll discover a whole host of products for the mind, body and spirit too, fairtrade and eco-friendly stock and unusual items not easily found on the high street. From incense to crystals, fairtrade clothing to singing bowls ‑ an Aladdin’s cave awaits! A busy schedule of talks, demonstrations and workshops is planned for both days, including talks on angels, crystals, palmistry and astrology, and demonstrations of mediumship and various therapies. BSSK’s shows are always family-friendly, and kids will love the free ‘Angel Feather Hunt’. Each child is given a quest sheet and can hunt for the feathers as they walk around the show. Everyone receives a prize for their endeavours from the ‘fairy prize table’. BSSK Events originally started life as the fundraising arm of The British School of Spiritual Knowledge in 2001 with just a small

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Reiki with Tranquil Waters

one-day Mind, Body & Spirit show in Lincolnshire. From these humble beginnings, the company has grown, becoming a self-contained organisation that now promotes more than 12 events a year, including the bi-annual Manchester show at The Monastery. Stoke Mandeville Stadium is BSSK’s first venture south. Visit www.bssk.co.uk for a list of exhibitors, which includes many BSSK regulars as well as local practitioners. You will also find details of the programme of talks and workshop to help you plan your day. l Stoke Mandeville Stadium, Guttmann Road, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 9PP Website: www.bssk.co.uk Tickets available online or on the door August 18th-19th (10am-5pm) Adults (over 15): £4.75; Concessions: £3.75; Two-Day Adult Pass: £7.75; Two-Day Concessions: £5.75; Under 15s: Free Free parking

Amatsu with Jenny Baker

Tranquil Waters

Divine Lights Aura Photography

Elsecar

Horsewyse CIC

Horsewyse CIC is a not-for-profit company that provides equine facilitated learning for children and young people with learning and behavioural difficulties. For further information please contact Angela Ristow on 01844 202966 or email: horsewyse@btconnect.com or visit our website at:

www.horsewyse.org.uk

Supping up for local causes

he highly-anticipated Haddenham Real Ale Festival is on the horizon. Last year more than 2,500 people attended - it is fast becoming one of the largest one day beer festivals in the country. Taking place on Saturday, July 7, at Haddenham Junior School, the Summer Festival will be the seventh run by Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust. It is a great family day out with a variety of music, dancing and food on offer. It also has a selection of lagers, ciders, wine and Pimms available. This year there will be an additional external bar serv-

ing local ales and a number of new marquees, just in case the weather takes a turn for the worst. To find out about sponsoring the event email: haddenhambeerfestival@gmail.com Doors open at 11am with the last entry at 6pm, depending on beer stocks. The Trust raises money for deserving causes in Haddenham and the surrounding area. So far the trust has donated more than £100,000 to local good causes. For more information visit www.haddenham-beer-festival. co.uk

Win a pig at traditional fair

he Kimblewick Country Fair takes place this year on Sunday, June 24th from noon. Held in the tiny hamlet of Kimblewick, HP17 8TA, it is a

traditional country fair for all the family, with bowling for a pig, plate smashing, archery, darts, tossing the bale, have a go gun dog scurry, a licenced bar and really good food. www.kimblewickfair.com

Win a copy of Arsènal The Making of a Modern Superclub

escribed by The Observer as ‘fascinating’ and The Guardian as ‘shrewd and well-informed’, Arsènal: The Making of a Modern Superclub, is a football book that reflects the modern age. Authors Alex Flynn and Kevin Whitcher are said to have been granted unprecedented access to the club, including exclusive interviews with Arsène Wenger, key board members and current and former players. Arsènal offers a privileged insight into the club’s fascinating blend of tradition and innovation and in particular the unique methods and motivations of its figurehead, Arsène Wenger.” Alex Fynn is a highly respected author of Arsenal books, including The Glorious Game, Heroes and Villains and The Great Divide as well as numerous titles on the politics of football. Kevin Whitcher is the editor of the highly influential Arsenal fanzine, The Gooner, co-author of The Glorious Game and author of Gunning for the Double - the Story of Arsenal’s 1997/98 Season.

If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning a copy of this fascinating book, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@ vale-life.co.uk Who is Arsenal’s manager? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by July 20th. The book is available from Vision Sports Publishing www.visionsp.co.uk

Abba good time at Relay for Life

elay for Life is an annual fund-raising event for Cancer Research UK. It is a 24 hour, non-athletic team event that takes place over the weekend of July 7th & 8th July, 2012, starting at 12noon on the Saturday and finishing at 12noon on Sunday. Teams of between eight and 15 people take part and members take it in turns to walk (or run if they wish) round a track. Entrants pay a registration fee and try and raise funds in the weeks before the event. Anyone can go along, make a donation, enter a team or just attend the event - there will be stalls. games and entertainment, so supporters and spectators are welcome. You don’t have to stay up all night but most do! A special treat this year will be live music from Abba tribute band Abba-Riginal, who will be dressed the part and performing all the Abba classics such as Waterloo, Voulez Vous, Mamma Mia and more.

A significant part of Relay For Life is the Candle of Hope ceremony, which takes place as it begins to get dark. It’s a chance to reflect on why everyone is taking part, with music, poems and readings. People decorate candle bags and dedicate them to loved ones that have been lost to cancer or to those who are surviving. A candle is put in the bag and they are all put round the track to provide the light through the night. Relay For Life started in Aylesbury in 2009 and raised £28,800. In 2010 the teams raised £33,043 and in 2011 they surpassed that with an incredible £41,148. This makes an amazing total of £102,991 in three years. You can help them beat that this year go to: www.relayforlife aylesbury.org or call the Relay Mobile on 07925 632 283 for further info or to sign up. Relay for Life 2012 takes place at Chiltern View Nursery, Wendover Road, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 5GX Vale Life : June/July 2012

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Aylesbury hairdressers top off a tough year’s fundraising with a life-changing mercy mission to Africa...

n just 12 months a six-strong team from Destiny Hair Design at Fairford Leys raised a staggering £18,000 to help build a community centre for orphans with HIV and AIDS. And instead of shampoos, cuts and blow dries, the team has been laying bricks, mixing concrete and sawing timber as part of their action-packed charity mission! Led by 38-year-old salon owner Tracey Gascoin, the staff spent two weeks in Ubombo, a remote part of South Africa, in support of Coco’s Foundation - a charity set up by a friend, West Sussex hairdresser Chris Connors. Tracey and her team worked alongside volunteers from across the country to help build the centre on the orphanage site. The £18,000

they raised through a year of community and sponsored events, covered their travel costs and construction materials. Between mid April and May, two Destiny staff at a time made the 30 hour journey to Africa for a twoweek building stint. While there they also met the orphans, delivered food parcels and blankets to the local community and handed out specially knitted teddies for the children. Tracey said: “It was a very emotional, but life-changing experience. These young orphans have all contracted this disease through sexual abuse and as a mother myself I found this deeply disturbing. “Supporting Coco’s in this way was a big opportunity for us all to make a positive difference to these children’s lives and I have

Destiny staff helping build the community centre for the orphanage been extremely humbled by what I saw. The orphans have had such a terrible start in life, but are still so happy and grateful. Coco’s is doing a fantastic job and is a charity well worth supporting.” Joining Tracey on the construction challenge were Destiny’s

Principal Designer Stephanie King, 22; Designers Natalie West, 21 and Alexa Stratfull 20; Salon Consultant Kirsty Montgomery, 24 and Designer Lucie Waring. And to continue their support two more Destiny Stylists, Jess Quarmby, 18 and Ali Misseldine, 47, will be undertaking a similar Ubombo trip in October this year, Salon Consultant Kirsty Montgomery, said the Ubombo trip was an amazing experience: “The children are a true inspiration. For me seeing the poverty in the local community was a huge eye-opener and made me realise how much we have in the UK and how little we appreciate it. It really put life here into perspective. The trip was a brilliant experience and I have some amazing memories, both happy and sad. I hope to keep working with Coco’s Foundation, for helping to make those children so happy was a wonderful feeling.”

Win a copy of CAMRA’s Take the 3 peaks challenge ‘101 Beer Days Out’

et out and enjoy the beautiful Chilterns countryside with a choice of a five, nine or 18 mile walk taking in the three Chilterns’ peaks of Whiteleaf Cross, Coombe Hill and Ivinghoe Beacon. It’s a lovely way to show your support and help raise funds for Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care. This year the event takes place on Sunday, September 16th. All routes start in Princes Risborough and a delicious barbecue lunch is available for everyone at the five mile point in Wendover.

ritain has over 850 breweries operational across the country producing over 5,500 different beers. To celebrate this remarkable industry, CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale has released a new book, ‘101 Beer Days Out’ to showcase how Britain has beer and brewing experiences to rival any in the world. 101 Beer Days Out, by Tim Hampson, brings together the most exciting ways to take in the nation’s rich beer and brewing culture, whether through conventional city pub trails and brewery tours, or via more unusual events, such as bog snorkelling or the World Marble Championships! Listing attractions, events, and venues that are must-visit examples of Britain’s brewing heritage and modern beer scene, the book is bursting with entries from the Orkney Isles to the south coast of Cornwall. Sadly the author seems to have omitted the beery delights of the Vale area but local beer drinkers may well know enough about them already!

Vale Life : June/July 2012

Five mile walkers are then returned to their cars by bus, while nine-mile walkers are bussed to Tring station to continue their walk and 18-mile walkers resume their challenge on foot. 700 walkers took part in the Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge last year and hundreds of dogs too! Entry costs £15 for adults and £7.50 for children and registration is open now on www.c3peaks.com If you can’t wait that long there’s the Beaconsfield Goodnight Walk on Sat, July 21st. www.gnwalk.com or call 01442 820741 for info.

Self Catering Accommodation If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning a copy of this boozy read, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@ vale-life.co.uk What does CAMRA stand for? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by July 20th. 101 Beer Days Out is available from the CAMRA shop and all good book retailers, (www.camra.org. uk/shop).

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CMY

Tel: 0808 178 7199 Email: sales@chilternhomeimprovements.co.uk

Aston Court · Kingsmead Business Park· Loudwater · High Wycombe · HP11 1LA

Thame Re-Pointing

& Plastering Services All types of Re-Pointing undertaken All aspects of Plastering undertaken Specialists in Lime Re-pointing Specialising in Period and Historic Buildings Very high standard of work Full public liability insurance Call Bob: 01844 215994 Mobile: 07773 082186 Website: www.thamerepointing.co.uk

Les Liney

Vehicle Hire Car and van hire All sizes available including Luton tail lifts AA Cover Also available: Fully Insured 24 hour accident and Unlimited Mileage breakdown service Customer Parking Old Farm Workshops Tel: 01844 292783 Haddenham Road Mobile: 07860 795236 Kingsey, HP17 8LS Vale Life : June/July 2012