Vale Life Magazine Dec-Jan 2012/13 by Charlie Trott

FREE MAGAZINE

Your free magazine for Aylesbury, Thame and the surrounding area

Take me home

www.vale-life.co.uk

Vale Life

w art w music w people w places w homes w gardens w theatre w food w fashion w Beauty w health w travel w

Dec 12 / Jan 13 See our website at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Free local listings for events and businesses

Inside:

The time is now!

15 pages of health and fitness

Food for thought

Is the wrong diet ruining your life?

Feeling adventurous?

Himalayan trek for hospice

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your life, make it better

Kick bad habits with power of hypnosis

Cover picture: Gina Photographed by Kayleigh Burr for Eclipse Hair Design See page 28

Penny, Ruby, Hero, Matt, Naomi, Amanda and much, much more...

w dinner for Two at the unicorn, cublington w w six months membership at Reflexions Fitness & leisure w

Your Local Solar Expert

Generate your own FREE energy andâ&#x20AC;Ś. Earn Up to 10% Return on your Investment CALL TODAY For Your FREE Survey

chilternsolar.co.uk Solar PV

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

01494 773400

Solar Thermal

Heat Pumps

Trilogy Interiors of Risborough

Supplying quality and affordable kitchens, bedrooms and home studies to Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire & beyond l Complete project management & kitchen design service l Creating individual kitchens at prices that don’t cost the earth l Local company supplying & installing kitchens for over 15 years l Vast range of styles - traditional to contemporary, character oaks to modern vinyls. l Replacement door and worktop service l All

major brands of appliances

l See website for details of bespoke fitted wardrobes, bedrooms & home studies

Also suppliers and installers of Home Studies & Beautifully crafted bedrooms

Trilogy Interiors, 38 Bell Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks HP27 0AD Tel/Fax: 01844 344387 Website: www.trilogyinteriors.co.uk

Free, No Obligation quotes Expert, hassle free installation Many recommendations from local customers

North Mill Road, Bledlow, Bucks HP27 9QP (Showroom by Appointment)

Let our family team look after your family’s home .

01844 342400 northmillstoves.co.uk

Charnwood C-‐Eight multi fuel stove

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

ting 10 Ye ra a r

eb l

200

2 - 2012

For all your stone needs... Internal stone at our Gallery in Thame The Gallery Stoneworld, 43A Upper High Street, Thame, Oxon, OX9 2DW. Tel: 01844 279307 Email: sales@stoneworld.co.uk

External stone at Great Milton

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 Rockery stone l Over 50 different ornamental gravels l Swimming pool edging l Natural stone walling l Range of interior stone for floors, walls & worktops l Feature stones and water features l Bespoke fireplaces and hearths l Bespoke digital masonry service

www.stoneworld.co.uk

This year, give those closest to you, a gift made by those closest to you.

At FROM, we have hundreds of beautiful gift ideas. Every piece is lovingly designed and crafted by local people.

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to look far to find something beautiful this Christmas 16 Cornmarket, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 2BW. 01844 217998. www.fromroundhere.com

Luxury Coach Holidays

DayTrips,Theatres & Shows Join one of our great value tours! Cavendis

h Hotel, E

astbourn

el.com .mottstrav w w w : e n nli Book o Springtime On The Italian Riveria: Menton Lemon Festival February 15th for 7 days ban

n Hotel, O

Caledonia

Fruity floats parade the streets, giant citrus decorations, bands, acrobats and street entertainment. Join us for a memorable holiday in the warm climate of Diano Marina. Half board in resort. Overnight hotels with breakfast. £479

Eastbourne Entertainment Break

February 3rd & 17th: 4 day break 4 Star Cavendish Hotel, Seafront Eastbourne

Book this fantastic 4 day break to lift the spirits after the winter months. Live entertainment, cash bingo, raffles & quizzies. Breakfast & dinner, leisure facilities and 2 included excursions: Battle & Rye, Brighton & Beachy Head. Only £189.

Highland Houseparty March 25th for 7 days

A great value for money package based at the Caledonian Hotel in Oban. Includes overnight hotels both ways, Scottish dance lessons, Bucks Fizz welcome drink, glass of wine with dinner two nights, film night, Scottish shortbread and afternoon tea, plus much more. Half board throughout the tour. All excursions included in price! Only £335.

Book Early for Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, Chelsea Flower Show & Hampton Court Flower Show

REQUEST A 2013 HOLIDAY BROCHURE – EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT UNTIL DECEMBER 31ST !! See our 2013 brochure for many more holidays... British Seaside Resorts - Special Event Breaks - Garden Weekends - Scotland, Ireland & Isle of Man - Bulbfields - Spain - Battlefield Tours - Italy - Switzerland & Portugal

Motts Holidays 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2LD BOOKING HOTLINE: 01296 336666 6

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

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

Time for action

Setting the tone

Winter ball

Reflexions competition

If the colour fits

That’s the Spirit!

Cold enough for snow

Fit in some me time

Welcome to Winter wonderland

The time is now

Home is where the Hart is

Halton hideaway

Our House

Swim-doctor

Home from home

It’s your life - make it better

Sewing the seeds

New year, new challenge

The foodies

Serves you right

The only way is Hub

Food for thought

Family choice

Feeling adventurous?

Bit of a drama

Our guide to local Health & Fitness

10 No train, no gain 12 13 14 15 16 17 17 18 19 20 21

Chris Gallagher’s Fitness Focus Win a six month membership to Reflexions Club offers the personal touch It’s never too late to reactivate Free Nuffield Health pass for every reader Core strength is key to your fitness Improve your pool life with Cathy Cavender Amanda Hart has the power to help What can you do for Florence?

Get in shape for a court appearance Was it something you ate?

Amazing ways to help our hospices

Dream debut

o it’s not The Three Stooges, it’s that giant of a man, Matt Brown (see his One Hungry Gent column on page 45) with his diminutive co-stars, Russell Grant and Andy Collins, enjoying their first photo session for this year’s Aylesbury Waterside panto, Peter Pan. That was a few weeks ago before Matt, who gets up at 3am to drive to the studio for his Heart FM Breakfast Show, had spent a

ongratulations to the following Nov/Dec 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 competitions inside this edition, including the chance to win: Six months member-

couple of weeks rehearsing and then performing, sometimes twice a day, before snatching a couple of hours sleep and then whizzing off to work again. ‘It’s only for three weeks,’ he said cheerily on opening night! The show is great fun and worth taking the family to, as it appeals to all ages. Matt is excellent in dual roles as Starkey the Pirate and Big Chief Sitting Bull, while Andy Collins, a professional comic from Bedgrove, is brilliant as Smee and keeps the show buzzing along ship of Reflexions Health & Leisure Club at Watermead and a meal for two at The Unicorn, Cublington. Last issue’s prizewinners were: Tickets to the London Boat Show: Sue Jones, Princes Risborough; Chris Allen, Buckingham; Claire Brown, Waddesdon; Nigel Milligan, Chinnor;

Keeping fit with KaSo Help make some waves for Alex Amanda meets one shady lady Small town girl is ready for Winter

Eclipse girls show they’ve got the wow factor Beautiful things to warm your cockles Melanie Parr says time to declutter Tom’s kitchens are Inspired Designs Naomi MacKay looks to nurture her knowledge Tomayto Tomaaahto and One Hungry Gent There’s a bit of a buzz in Aston Clinton Village Gate is a pub with great grub What’s coming up at Aylesbury Waterside

with a steady supply of gags and sketches, including his boisterous 12 Days Of Christmas routine. Having done the panto it really is ‘beginning to feel a lot like...’ time to turn out the lights and head for the pub - thanks for reading, keep supporting our local businesses and have a very merry Christmas. Here’s wishing you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2013,

Charlie

Charlie Trott: editor@vale-life.co.uk Debbie Bayntun-Lees, Terrick A copy of James Wong’s gardening Book: Janet Hodgkinson, Towersey Ten packets of Suttons seeds: Michele Bromwich, Thame A copy of Doug Kennedy’s Chiltern Landscapes book: Sue Wallace, Thame Thame Cinema tickets:

Penny Halls, Ilmer A copy of the Bluffer’s Guide to Bond: Sanda Ringsma, Chilton Dinner for two at The Pointer, Brill: Sarah Crisp, Bicester Murano Glass Heart pendant: Debby Daniels, Aylesbury £100 of Caudalie products from Powder, Thame: Liz Jordain, Ickford

Front cover picture: Gina - Hair by Emma, Eclipse Hair Design; Make up: Lorna Shepherd; Photographer: Kayleigh Burr, see page 28 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 : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

There’s nothing like a New Year for reflection and resolution. It’s a time for new beginnings, to start looking after yourself better, to become a healthier, more active you, to have fun and enjoy the benefits of having more energy and feeling better about yourself. You know you want to...

Exercise can be fun and free!

“Juggling a career and being a mum is challenging. Jazzercise is my time for ME! It’s fun and the hour flies by. I love setting a good example of a fit lifestyle for my daughters.” - Ann, 35

Free class with this ad Offers in class for new customers

Aylesbury, Aylesbury, Halton, Chinnor, Tring, Wilstone Haddenham, Ivinghoe Princes Buckingham Risborough, & Winslow & Thame Keri Donnellan 07900 987230

Sue Morris 07752 448026

www.jazzercise-uk.com 8

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

at well, move well and stay healthy,” says Cat Booker. Cat has been a fitness professional for 17 years, she is a Personal Trainer with her own fitness studio and biomechanics clinic at the Belmore Centre in Stoke Mandeville. She is also a Fitness Presenter on the National Spinning (R) Indoor Cycle team and runs a variety of classes and bootcamps across the local area. She has kindly offered some advice for our New Year Health and Fitness Feature and some words of encouragement! We’ve all heard that exercise is good for us, but why is that? Our everyday lives require less physical activity than in our grandparents’ day, we rely on cars to get around and spend hours sitting in front of computers. Some of us probably don’t do anything more physical than a stroll around the super market, but does it really matter? Well, actually it does! Physical inactivity increases your risk of coronary heart disease - in other words, if you don’t exercise you significantly increase your risk of dying from a heart attack. Exercising regularly means a healthier heart as it reduces cardiovascular risks, including high blood pressure. Being physically active can also bolster good mental health and help you to manage stress, anxiety and even depression. You will actually feel happier and have more energy as a result of exercising. Regular exercise can help you achieve and maintain an ideal weight, which can be important in managing many health conditions, or may just make you feel happier about your appearance. All exercise helps strengthen bones and muscles to some degree, but weight-bearing exercise, such as

running, is especially good in promoting bone density and protecting against osteoporosis, which affects men as well as women. Regular exercise, as you age, keeps you strong, mobile and less dependent on others and different exercises help with all sorts of health niggles, such as digestion, poor posture and sleeplessness. Physical activity can be beneficial for a range of medical conditions, from diabetes to lower back pain.

Fitness professional Cat Booker “There’s plenty of choice locally for those seeking to start a healthier life,” says Cat Booker. “Whether you wish to be a member of a gym, or think a community-based class might be more sociable, there is lots on offer. Over the next few pages you will find a whole selection of local clubs and activities to consider, while details of my own classes and facilities are available at www.catbookerfitness.co.uk “Fitness is a time investment but it can be fun as well and it is all for you. Look at your diet and aim to eat well too. You need to get the facts and plan. We are bombarded with diet messages and celebrity DVDs to lose weight and get in shape, but research shows many of us prefer to workout and get fit with other people, and this makes stretching to the latest yoga DVD at

l Cat Booker Fitness Studio has an Open Studio on Thursday, 17th January, 9am-5pm. Cat will be joined by Nutritional Therapist, Jenny Phillips of Inspired Nutrition, offering FREE consultations, £10 metabolic age readings, discounts on nutrition, healthy cookery and weight loss - small group workshops, pilates classes, outdoor bootcamp packages, small group personal training and more, for all January recruits. Bring this copy of Vale Life with you and get a 15% discount off your bookings in January. All class details and other packages are on the website: www.catbookerfitness.co.uk

 One of the UK’s finest naturist clubs, established 1936  Family friendly surroundings  Indoor and outdoor heated pools  Sauna and plunge pool  Sports facilities  Children’s play area and play room  Beautiful grounds around a country house Try our special skinny dip evenings in Jan/Feb ‘13!

www.diogenessunclub.co.uk

Yesterday You Said Tomorrow Lose Weight – Shape & Tone – Improve Fitness – Build Muscle

Group – Individual – Bespoke Packages to Suit you www.adaptfitnessuk.co.uk Mobile 07843 478765

ctured swimmi u r t ng ,s n le u

r children u p s fo t ot on e ss

home a harder habit to form. “There are classes galore for those that fancy from Jazzercise to Zumba Boxercise and Ballet and there’s not a leg warmer in sight! Studios and gyms offer plenty of choice. Popular at the moment are functional fitness classes, such as kettle-bells and suspension trainer systems. Suspension training is a great way to workout and burn a lot of calories in one-go and in a shorter space of time than you would at a standard fitness class. “For those who like to spend more time working out and enjoy being outside, Nordic Walking is proving to be a big-hit and is getting people of all fitness levels active outdoors. “Cycling has become even more popular since the Olympics and there are local clubs such as the Aylesbury Cycle Club and VC10, who both have beginner groups as well as more elite packs. If you prefer to be indoors, try indoor cycling - a stationery cycle class to music which can motivate you to burn many hundreds of calories! “Pilates and Yoga continue to

prove popular as complementary work out options to improve core stability and flexibility and for rehabilitation. There is plenty of support and many experienced local teachers in these disciplines. Pilates is often promoted for greater back care, but it is incredibly good for building awareness of your own body and how to move better and improve posture. Swimming too can be a great way to workout without impacting your body. “If you are putting up with a niggle, aches, pains, stiffness, loss of strength or movement, having difficulty working out, or even undertaking day to day activities, it is time to seek the support of a specialist. There are many, very good, highly qualified practitioners supporting our local fitness industry including: physiotherapists, sports massage therapists and osteopaths and to whom you can turn for advice. “While it is good to stay active, fit and happy, the most important part of a healthy lifestyle and the bit that is often the hardest to master, is healthy eating. Diets of an extreme nature are not a great investment for the medium and long term. We are all better off learning how to eat healthily perhaps with professional advice from a qualified personal trainer or nutritional therapist. “So dust off your trainers, put away the sweet treats, pack up habits like eating the kids leftovers, snacking on someone else’s chips (they have calories too) and skipping meals. Instead concentrate on good hydration, get active, positive, find an exercise activity that appeals and make today the start of a new healthier you.” Happy New Year, Healthy regards, Cat Booker

Bucks Hornets Basketball Club in action

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Health & Fitness

Find a class near you...

www.swimkidz.co.uk tracey@swimkidz.co.uk 0118 959 7874 | 07889 905678 www.facebook.co.uk/swimkidz

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Column: Chris Gallagher ‘Fitness Focus’

No train, no gain...

ew Year - time for a new you. That’s the thought behind many a New Year Resolution. We’ve tucked in to excess over the festive season and now it’s time to fight the flab. Unfortunately the Twelve Days of Christmas tend to last longer than most resolutions to join the gym and get in shape. We’re all different of course and while some may stay focused and motivated, others will find it beneficial to engage a personal trainer who can give support and encouragement, ensure regular attendance and make sure your efforts are in the right direction and not wasted on exercises you can neither understand or competently perform. But if you need expert help, how do you ensure you are hiring the right personal trainer? Do you choose the energetic gym bunny, the muscle bound weightlifter, or the independent trainer with the fancy website? Just what does make a good personal trainer?

Two key factors to look for are knowledge/qualifications and experience. Many PTs now hold a Sports Science or Strength & Conditioning degree. If you are fortunate to have such a trainer locally you can safely assume they

are more knowledgeable than a trainer who has merely completed a PT course of a few weeks. Talk to potential trainers and find out where they studied and what it involved. Compare answers from a few to get an idea of the quality on offer. Experience is not so much the years they have been training but the depth and quality of experience

Root causes M

ore and more people are turning to acupuncture as a natural, safe and effective alternative, as it can help with problems such as depression and anxiety, insomnia, pain relief, migraine headaches and much more. “I look at the root cause of a patient’s illness,” says acupuncturist Beth Bennett. “Not just at the symptoms. This can really help to enhance their overall health and sense of vitality. “I enjoy treating patients of all ages including children, and supporting patients with lifelimiting illnesses. Treatments are in a relaxing, calm environment and last for just under an hour.” Beth trained at the College of Traditional Acupuncture and now practices in Aylesbury and Princes Risborough. “I am particularly interested in acupuncture for women’s health,” she says, “and in helping couples conceive or supporting them during IVF cycles, and at all stages of pregnancy including post-natal treatment. 10

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Beth Bennett Acupuncture

“I have undertaken specialist post-graduate training and advanced workshops with experts in the field and continue to further my studies wherever possible. “I am a member of the Acupuncture Fertility Network and the Acupuncture for Childbirth Team for Bucks.” l Beth Bennett BA(Hons) Lic. Ac. MBAcC Tel: 07713 604095 Email: beth@bethbennett acupuncture.co.uk Website: www.bethbennett acupuncture.co.uk

they have gained within that time. Have they previously helped clients achieve goals similar to your own? Has their success allowed them to develop more business? The busiest trainer is not always the best, they may just be a good sales person! If you are considering hiring a trainer at your local gym then take the time to talk to the trainer or review any in-house information. Also take time to watch them train their current clients. Are these clients achieving goals? Would they recommend the trainer? Are they avoiding injury? Trainers may offer the opportunity for a complimentary consultation. This is a chance for you to discuss your goals and for the trainer to identify how they can help you achieve them and what they bring to the table. Don’t be afraid to talk to more than one. If you are looking for an independent trainer, scour their website for information and get chatting via email or phone. Are they genuinely interested in you and your personal goals or just

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Chris Gallagher

Fitness Focus taking your money? Undertaking personal training is a considerable expense for most people and you want to ensure that you are getting the best possible service you can afford, much like you would in any other aspect of your life. Good luck with your search and your future health & fitness goals. l Chris Gallagher is Fitness Director of PT-Results, Aylesbury Website: www.pt-results.co.uk www.facebook.com/Personal TrainingResults Twitter: @ PT_Results

Splashing out

verybody is guaranteed a splashing time now Aqua Vale Swimming & Fitness Centre’s £6.4m refurbishment has been completed. The makeover went swimmingly and the centre reopened in October. The outdoor pool has been given a retractable roof, so it is undercover until the weather perks up. Panels in the roof can then be electronically opened if it’s sunny and swimmers can enjoy the open air. With a ‘Lazy River’ feature, Baby Area and Interactive Water Features, decked with tropical palm trees, it is hoped the pool will be enjoyed by all ages. Two new flumes have been installed as well to give thrill seekers some excitement, apparently The Black Hole is particularly scary! Away from the pool, the fitness suite has been extended and reconfigured, with zoned areas for differing abilities and styles of training. The workout studio has also been revamped and is home

to a team of fitness professionals, delivering course and classes such as: Body Combat, Body Pump, Spinning and Yoga. You can guarantee your place in a class by booking online up to seven days in advance. The wetside changing village has been upgraded and extended and a competition pool is up and running, complete with an adjustable height floor, a vital facility for schools. The centre also now has an extra 140 parking spaces and the café has been relocated to the front of the building to enable park users to access the facility. The work has been made possible thanks to the funding and commitment of Aylesbury Vale District Council, who own the Park Street centre, along with support from the Aylesbury Vale Community Trust (AVCT). l Aqua Vale Swimming & Fitness Centre, Park Street, Aylesbury Bucks, HP20 1DX Tel: 0845 2671197 Web: www.aylesburyleisure.com

Get your

new yearoff to a

Join

Online Today!

healthier start

ÂŁ

for only

.99

per month

JOIN1 CENTRES

USE BOTH

FREE

workout relax

ONE DAY

you

GYM TRIAL

choose

Please bring this advert with you to redeem your free 1 day gym trial.

Lose weight, tone up and get fit in 2013 at Aqua Vale and Swan Pool Leisure Centres. With an enhanced, fully equipped fitness suite, variety of workout classes including Body Pump, Zumbaâ&#x201E;˘and Spinning, plus unlimited use of the swimming pools across two excellent leisure facilities. Join online today and get your New Year off to a healthy start. For full details of all facilities, activities, memberships available and to join online visit:

www.aylesburyleisure.com Become a fan on Facebook GymIn Aylesbury or SwimIn Aylesbury

*Relates to gym and swim membership. 12 month minimum term agreement applies. Other membership options available, see online for details. Terms and conditions apply, all parts of offer are subject to change.

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

WIN 6 months membership!

eflexions Health and Leisure is a vibrant club at Watermead, just off the Buckingham Road, on the outskirts of Aylesbury. It is well-equipped and known for its friendliness and relaxed atmosphere. “Whether you have been exercising for years, or have just been thinking about it for as long, if you want to lose weight, improve your fitness, change your shape or simply feel healthier - we can definitely help,” says club manager Lou Harrison. “The philosophy is simple at Reflexions. We provide our members with the widest range of amenities and the friendliest service we can at an affordable price. “We offer the very best in group exercise classes too, with over 40

running per week. There is a wide range of equipment and facilities waiting here for you. “Reflexions also offers a great social atmosphere and the opportunity to make new friends, relax and of course achieve your fitness or weight loss goals. “We offer everyone, regardless of their size, shape or ability, the opportunity to workout in an easy-going environment. “We will demonstrate how to use the equipment and get the best out of it before you start your programme and our experienced and well-qualified fitness consultants will be on hand to assist you all the way. Whatever your preference, there will be something to suit your taste, mood and fitness level.

Reflexions, Aylesbury

If you’d like the chance to win Six Months Full Membership to Reflexions, simply email your name, address and telephone number, with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Who is Reflexions manager? Winner to be picked at random

Fashion Portraiture and Fitness Photography by Chris Harper FBIPP Limited Edition Images for sale www.thephotographersportfolio.com Tel: 07546 171890 12

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

from correct entries and notified by email by January 20th, 2013. l Reflexions Health & Leisure Buckingham Road, Watermead, Aylesbury, HP19 0FY Tel: 01296 330311 Web: www.reflexionsaylesbury.co.uk

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

That’s the Spirit

f you’re looking for a Health Club with a personal touch then you’ve come to the right place,” says Paul, manager of The Spirit Health Club at The Holiday Inn, Aylesbury. “Our Lifestyle Consultants provide the kind of one to one guidance that has already helped numerous members achieve their goals and could do the same for you.” Spirit has a friendly and relaxed environment, where you can exercise and unwind. There’s a fitness suite, swimming pool and variety of studio classes plus sauna, steam room and spa pool to take advantage of and you can even enjoy a little pampering with a beauty treatment or soothing massage, say a ‘Dermalogica’ facial, or ‘Jessica’ hand or foot treatment.

Spirit Health Club, Aylesbury Book in for a Spa day, if you like! “We have several membership packages available,” says Paul, “which can be paid in monthly instalments to suit your budget. And as a ‘Spirit Health Club member’ there is the opportunity to gain discounts on food and beverages purchased in the hotel and benefit from discounted beauty treatments and preferential hotel and accommodation rates.

You will be able to use our clubs in other areas too. “Why not let us help you achieve your health and fitness goals by making full use of our club’s facilities and to make the most of your membership or just give you a little more confidence, we can also offer Personal Training and Physiotherapy.” To join The ‘Spirit’ Lifestyle call: 01296 734049 or email: spiritaylesbury@ihg.com The club is open Monday to

Friday from 6am-10pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 7am to 10pm. See the website at: www.spirit healthclubs.co.uk/clubs/aylesbury for further details. l Spirit Health Club, Holiday Inn Aylesbury, New Road, Weston Turville, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 5QT Tel: 01296 734049 Email: spirit.aylesbury@ihg.com Web: www.spirithealthclubs.co.uk/ clubs/aylesbury

Go for gold! R

acquets Fitness Centre is a family run squash, racketball and fitness club in the heart of Thame. At Racquets you can squash, smash, ping and pong your way around one of four newly refurbished courts, box your way fit in the fitness studio, or pull your waist back in line in the fully stocked, air conditioned gym and cardio room. Racquets has something for everyone! Why not drop the kids off at the crèche and take a class. There are over 30 different fitness classes running from Zumba to Boxercise, Spinning, Yoga, Circuits and Pilates, or just socialise over a drink and snack in the bar and lounge. The club is situated in the Cattle Market car park on North Street, Thame. “At Racquets Fitness Centre, we understand that everyone enjoys different activities and has different fitness goals,” says

marketing manager Martin King. “So we have several membership packages to help you achieve your goals. You can focus on squash and racketball, or just do classes, or use the gym, or go for Full Gold membership which covers everything! “All members can use our bar and lounge and take advantage of a varied programme of social events too. “When you join you will be given a ‘full body MOT’, which includes a health check and an hours guidance session from one of our personal trainers. Together you can agree a specific program designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. Make this year your year of change and join us today! Happy New Year!” l Racquets Fitness Centre, North Street, Thame, OX9 3TH Tel: 01844 261754 info@racquets-fitness-centre.com Website: www.racquets-fitness-centre.com Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

www.reactivatebucks.org 01296 585215

This new year, get fit, rediscover sport and make new friends with Beginners’ Running and Back to Netball courses...

ind yourself juggling 101 things at the same time? With family, work and other commitments all competing for time, being a Mum often means that ‘me time’ doesn’t get a look in. It’s so easy to forget to set aside a little time just for you, but this January there’s a way for you to get a bit of time to yourself, and keep that new year’s resolution at the same time. Back to Netball sessions and Beginners’ Running courses are taking place across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes at times and venues to suit you - such as straight after the school run - so it’s easy to fit into your routine. With a weekly session to attend where you know you’ll see friendly faces and have lots of fun, there’s no reason not to dedicate an hour a week to yourself.

‘I swapped my fad diet and found my way back to netball’ Hundreds of women have already joined their local session and love the way it makes them feel. Alison, 32, from Aylesbury, says: “Last new year I swapped my fad diet and found my way Back to Netball instead. It’s me time and it’s far more fun than when we were at school.” And for anyone who would like to do a charity race but thinks that they can’t run, there are lots of women who can prove you wrong. Our Beginners’ Running courses will ease you in gradually, starting at walking pace, so you’ll soon be hooked and feeling energised, just like Karen, 41, from South Bucks: “Completing the 10-week Beginners’ Running course has shown me that running can be safe and fun. The group keep me motivated to come back each week, and that means my occasional slice of cake is guilt-free.” So whether you go on your own, or drag along some friends, attend one of our beginners sessions this new year, and make this new year’s resolution one you’ll keep. See www.reactivatebucks.org or call 01296 585215 for details on ways to make 2013 the year you do something special for you. 2 14

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Back to Netball in Aylesbury Vale Call Geri on 07964 124783 Back to Netball

Monday 21st January

9.00 – 10.00

Halton Primary School

Back to Netball

Monday 21st January

10.30 – 11.30

Bedgrove Community Centre

Back to Netball

Monday 21st January

18.00 – 19.00

Aston Park, Aston Clinton

Beginner Running in Aylesbury Vale Call Sean on 07832 383548 Bearbrook Running Club

Monday 14th January (beginners)

19.00 – 20.00

Rivets Sports & Social Club

Vale of Aylesbury Wednesday 16th January AC (beginners)

19.00 – 20.00

Stoke Mandeville Stadium, Club Hut

Hilltop Runners (Brill)

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday (from 14th Jan)

08.45 – 09.45

Brill Playing Fields

Jog On

Wednesday 16th January

18.15 – 19.15

Hawkslade Farm Community Centre

Rachel’s Running Group (Oving)

Thursday 10th January

09.15 – 10.15

The Recreation Ground, Bowling Alley, Oving

Walton Street Wanderers

Tuesday 15th January

12.30 – 13.30

Bucks County Council Offices

Westongrove Beginners

Wednesday 14th January

18.00 – 19.00

Bedgrove Surgery

Aqua Vale

Monday 14th January

10.30 – 11.30

Aqua Vale reception

Watermead Runners

Friday 11th January

13.00 – 14.00 17.00 – 18.00

Watermead Shopping Precinct Car Park

Bedgrove Park

Saturday 12th January

09.00 – 10.00

Bedgrove Park Car Park

Fairford Leys

Monday 14th January

09.30 – 10.30

Fairford Leys Community Centre

Marsh Gibbon

Wednesday 16th January

09.15 – 10.15

Meet outside Marsh Gibbon School

Aston Park

Thursday 17th January

09.30 – 10.30

Aston Park Car Park, Aston Clinton

Mums that run

Friday 11th January

09.00 – 10.00

Weston Turville School

For more information on running courses, please call Aylesbury Vale Running Activator Sean Dullaghan on 07832 383548, or email: fitness@transform-your-life.com

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

“There’s never a wrong time to start getting fit and healthy,” says Richard Whitaker of Aylesbury’s Nuffield Health Centre, “but the new year is always popular and we are ready to help...”

rom the outside Nuffield Health’s Fitness and Wellbeing Centre in Fairford Leys, Aylesbury looks like many modern day health clubs. It is housed in impressive purpose built premises and boasts a good sized pool plus large first floor gymnasium and cycling studio, exercise studio, sauna, steam room, spa treatments and a stylish, comfortable café and relaxation area. What is unusual is that the club is one of 200 across the country run by the UK’s leading health charity, an organisation which defines success as its ability to improve people’s health. Originally a charitable trust established in 1957 by BUPA to build community hospital facilities, Nuffield took it’s name from Lord Nuffield (motor tycoon William Morris, at the time president of BUPA). The organisation grew and now combines private hospitals, health clinics, fitness and wellbeing centres, diagnostic units and a wide range of treatments into one complete healthcare service. Nuffield Health aims to help people get healthy and stay healthy. Richard Whitaker is manager of their Aylesbury Fitness and Wellbeing Centre. He has a degree in PE and many years experience working in health clubs. He started at Nuffield’s Aylesbury club in 2007 when the facility was bought from Cannons Gyms. The club was only four years old at the time but it is well looked after and even now, at nine, looks immaculate - crisp, clean and fresh, with an impressive selection of state of the art equipment: “It’s a bit like painting the Forth Bridge,” says Richard, “We have to keep on top of things but we are blessed with a solid structure here and a great layout. “What sets us apart though, is the service we offer. We have a three point plan and award scheme which helps new members get fit and monitors their progress. Our ‘Health MOT’ or fitness test is second to none - an expert senior wellbeing advisor will give a free twelve point

health check that includes tests for: body mass index (BMI); resting heart rate; cholesterol; aerobic fitness; blood pressure and sugar levels. A personal fitness programme is drawn up to fit around your lifestyle and The ‘Health MOT’ is repeated every three months to check your progress. You even get fitness rewards for reaching your goals! Our wellbeing advisors are on hand to offer help, advice and encouragement, we have an excellent exercise class timetable plus the option of personal training for one-to-one motivation. We also have experts in to give talks on different aspects of health, such as back care. We are supported by a clinical organisation and it does make us a bit different. “There is a massive psychological benefit to feeling better and feeling good about yourself when you exercise regularly. Endorphins kick in, you will have more energy and a general sense of well-being. It’s not just the physical benefits. We can help you look at diet as well. “We offer a monthly membership, either a 12 month or a three month contract, with rewards for getting fitter - like a free month’s membership! You have full access to all activities and you get a fresh towel to use while you are here. We have a crèche that is open five days a week too.” To help Vale Life readers make the move

towards a healthier lifestyle Richard is kindly offering every one of you a free seven day trial of the Aylesbury Fitness and Wellbeing Centre. Just cut out the voucher below and take it along to Nuffield Health for a week of free access and advice. Call first to book in for your free ‘Health MOT’ check and you can then try out any of the facilities or classes. l Aylesbury Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, Trenchard Street, Aylesbury, HP19 7AA Tel: 0845 5080794 Website: www.nuffield health.com/gyms/Aylesbury

Free Seven Day trial Call: 01296 487627 to book your free trial and health check. Cut out this voucher and take with you when you go. Aylesbury Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, Trenchard Street, Aylesbury, HP19 7AA

Discover a new approach to gyms Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

You won’t spot Halton Health and Fitness Club by accident! It’s tucked away behind Halton Tennis Club, surrounded by tall trees and greenery - an idyllic setting for a spot of exercise...

“

e are a club rather than a gym, says Jon Price, Halton Health & Fitness Club Gym Director and Personal and Performance Trainer. “We offer a friendly, welcoming environment and years of expertise. We are here to guide members and provide the support and knowledge you need to achieve your aims. “As part of Halton Health and Fitness Club we share the Halton Lawn Tennis Club site and have an outside training area, which is great when the weather is nice. “Inside we have a well-equipped gym and a fitness studio where Pilates, Body Weight Suspension, and Circuits classes are held. This is also the home of Halton Physiotherapy with whom we work closely - 3 physiotherapists, 5 trainers, 3 pilates instructors and supporting services such as sports massage, reflexology and foot care are all available here. “You can be a gym member, do classes or have personal training, depending on what you require. So many people join a gym and then after a few weeks lose their will and direction. At Halton Health & Fitness Club we will help you set reasonable goals based on what you would like to achieve, identify the steps that need to be put in place, how long it will take and what support you will need to reach your goal. “We aim for educated, functional training, rather than a gym routine. How does your body move? What does your day require you to do? How can we get you fitter for what you need to do. Are you looking to lose weight, get fitter, recover from an injury? What movements would help you lose the weight as quickly as possible, or gain the strength, or speed you would like to? “The gym is zoned with a cardio section, a weights zone etc and we can teach you to be

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Gym director Jon Price a ‘smart’ keep-fitter, using functional training which focuses on those exercises which get you fit for what you want to do, rather than aimlessly training with no specific goals. We can also offer nutritional advice and eating plans and performance training for elite athletes from all sports.” Jon has been in the fitness industry for 21 years. He set up Core Strength 10 years ago, primarily to work with Halton tennis players, improving fitness and strength. It has developed into an independent gym with some 400 members. He has a background in personal training and has worked with many athletes to boost speed, agility, strength and conditioning. He believes much depends on core stability and that a person needs to be balanced with a strong core to build from. It’s then a case of leading and supporting them through whatever they would like to achieve: whether it’s weight loss, speed for a sport, a stronger back, to move more freely, or to improve posture.

The Core Strength gym has a strictly limited membership, to avoid crowding, which is currently a 50:50 male to female ratio. “We have open days coming up on January 12th and 19th,” says Jon. “Anyone interested is welcome to come and have a look round, bring your kit and give us a try out. Added open day benefits include a 10% off gym membership offer and no joining fee (usually £20). You can also enter a prize draw to win a membership. “Memberships are available either monthly or annually. If you prefer to join month to month, or just for a month to try us out, that’s fine. The options are on our website. We don’t offer lots of different packages as it’s more about what you want, we prefer to tailor our services to suit you. l Halton Health & Fitness Club, Halton Tennis Centre, Chestnut End, Halton, Aylesbury, HP22 5PD Tel: 01296 623021 Mobile: 07944 569489 Email: info@haltonhealthandfitness.co.uk Website: www.haltonhealthandfitness.co.uk

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Swim-doctor “

’d love to make swimming more accessible for everyone,” says swimming instructor Cathy Cavender. “Swimming is an excellent no impact exercise for the whole body. Sadly though, many people struggle to enjoy the benefits and pleasures of swimming due to a lack of confidence in the water or a poor stroke technique.” It’s wonderful to watch swimmers glide through the water with effortless grace. So, why do many fit and healthy people find it hard to swim a length without gasping for breath or experiencing neck and back pain? And why do some people seem to lack buoyancy? “Swimming is about working with the water and not against it,” says Cathy. “The less you fight the water the more it can help you. The more you learn how to ‘let go’ and release your body tension, the easier and more natural swimming becomes.”

It sounds easy, but if you feel anxious or uncomfortable in water then trusting the water to support and guide you can seem impossible. Cathy is an experienced swimming instructor and her ‘fundamentals first’ approach to swimming teaching enables nervous beginners to gain the confidence and skills they need to manage their anxiety and take their first strokes. She also provides tuition for those who wish to swim more efficiently or compete in triathlons, up to international level. “It’s all about learning to be at one with the water,” says Cathy. “Once you can do this you can start to unlock the benefits of swimming or improve your performance.” Cathy runs adult one-to-one lessons at The Oxfordshire Golf Resort, nr Thame and coaches VC10 Progress Swim Club at Risborough Springs pool. The club is for adults

Cathy Cavendar

who wish to progress their swimming for fitness and triathlon. See their website at: www.vc10.org.uk for details. Cathy is also now taking bookings for small children’s classes, family classes and children’s one-to-ones to start in early 2013.

l Cathy Cavender Swimming Tuition Tel: 01844 351253 Mobile: 07886 268745 Email: cathycavenderswimming @hotmail.com Web: www.cathycavender swimming.co.uk

It’s your life - make it better!

he new year may be a time associated with resolutions to manage weight or exercise more, but many of us live with behavioural and emotional issues such as fears, habits, phobias and anxieties that we would be much happier without and would do well to resolve as well. Personal therapist Amanda Hart, is a licensed Clinical Hypnotherapist and NLP Practitioner who has been successfully helping her clients overcome issues such as these for many years. She can also help you with weight management, sleep disorders and to stop smoking (the latter in just one session!) Amanda’s caring and professional service ‘Life Insight Therapy’ is completely confidential. Her website at www.lifeinsighttherapy.co.uk explains more about her techniques, services and background. She’s been based in Great Missenden but has recently begun consulting at The Belmore Centre in

emotional problems a little longer, five or six sessions, hypnotherapy is much quicker than many forms of therapy.” Amanda became interested in hypnotherapy after she was herself treated by a hypnotherapist and was very impressed by the results. After 20 years in publishing she decided on a career change and retrained as a hypnotherapist. She has also studied counselling and psychotherapy, is a qualified NLP Practitioner, a trained counsellor specialising in Cognitive Amanda Hart Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy and is Stoke Mandeville as well. "For new clients I offer an hour's trained in the use of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), often free consultation," says Amanda. known as ‘tapping’ - which some "It gives me time to understand performers use to quell nerves and what they would like to achieve stagefright. and explain how I work and might She is now able to incorporate help them. Between the initial consultation and their first treatment counselling techniques into her hypnotherapy too, which is appointment I would prepare a beneficial for many clients. tailored treatment to meet their "Hypnotherapy can also alleviate needs. Usually fears and phobias can some physical conditions," says be tackled in three or four sessions,

Amanda, "even chronic conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Migraine, Eczema, Dermatitis, and pain from Arthritis. Clients should have their condition medically diagnosed and treated first by their doctor but the symptoms can then, in many cases, be relieved by hypnotherapy.” Amanda can also help with sexual and relationship problems and for organisations and companies offers staff counselling or team/group conflict management. “It’s your life,” says Amanda, “Why not make it better?” l Life Insight Therapy Mobile: 07810 405525 Email: hello@lifeinsight.co.uk Website: www.lifeinsight.co.uk Twitter: @Life_insight

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Ever thought about taking on a Marathon or flinging yourself out of a plane? Well, if you have, why not do it for a worthy local cause?

he Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity (FNHC) is offering adrenalin junkies a variety of challenge events for 2013 from taking on a Marathon challenge in Brighton or Milton Keynes (the Charity has secured places) or putting your foot power to the test in the London to Paris Sunflower Cycle challenge or perhaps a sky dive – the choice is yours! “We have a number of Marathon places up for grabs,” explains Karen Shardlow, Development & Events Manager at FNHC. “Having run the Brighton Marathon myself, I can tell you the sense of achievement you feel at the end is truly amazing and it’s a real experience to be part of a big event like this one.” So what challenge events are on offer and when? l The Sky-Dive Challenge, Brackley Airfield, Saturday, 13th April, 2013 A special challenge for FNHC supporters wishing to take on an extreme challenge! Last year, brave, Kate Mahoney from Aylesbury, took a sky-dive challenge in aid of Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity: “It was such an amazing experience,” said Kate, “and to be able to do the jump in aid of the Hospice made it even better. The staff at the Hospice are fantastic, the care and support they offer not only for patients but to their families is remarkable.” l Running by the sea: Brighton Marathon, Sunday 14th April What could be better than running along the promenade, overlooking the sea? If you fancy the 26-mile challenge, this could be the one for you. FNHC has secured places and as part of ‘Team Florence Nightingale’ you will be invited to visit the Hospice, wear one of the Charity’s t-shirts and be cheered on by FNHC supporters on the day. In April 2012, Jason Burton, 18

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Luke Race, Walid Elsingaby, David Tugwell and Iain Wilcox - five men from Aylesbury took on the Brighton Marathon challenge in aid of Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity after a visit to the Hospice. “We visited the Hospice before the challenge to find out more about the work they do and were amazed and humbled by the experience,” said Jason. “The Hospice looks after people of all ages (both children and adults) with lifelimiting illnesses, free-of-charge, across Aylesbury Vale, the Chilterns, Bedfordshire and parts of Oxfordshire. Whatever way you look at it, you are giving to a good cause.” l Milton Keynes Marathon, Monday 6th May (Bank Holiday) The Charity has secured places for this local challenge. So, if you live in Bucks, Beds or Herts, this one might fit the bill, or perhaps you’d like to go along as a volunteer to help man the water stations? l Running through the streets of London: London Virgin Marathon, Sunday 21st April If you are one of the lucky runners who have already secured a ballot place for the world’s most well-known Marathon challenge, why not consider running for the local Hospice? l Pedal Power: London to Paris Sunflower Cycle Ride, 3rd to 7th July Ooh La La! If you are a keen cyclist and fancy taking on this fiveday course, covering over 500km, then why not sign up now? This event is in aid of Hospices across the UK, so you can simply choose to support Florence Nightingale Hospice to take part. Not one but eight challenge events for local man! 31-year-old Andrew Nash, right, who took on eight challenge events for Florence Nightingale Hospice last summer, including two events that needed a death waiver said: “After raising

money for the past two years with a number of challenges, I decided to take on a whole series, which included four half marathons, a climb to the highest point in England, a tough trail race in the Lake District and two terrifying assault courses! “There were many memorable moments but knowing I was raising money for a good cause makes it all worthwhile. I have seen the fantastic work the Florence Nightingale Hospice does through my Father, who is Chaplain for the Hospice and have witnessed firsthand the work that goes on and the support given to patients, families and loved ones.” Commenting on whether he would encourage others to take on a challenge, Andrew added: “Absolutely. Anything that pushes someone to achieve something and helps raise money for such a worthy cause has to be worth doing.” Your support and sponsorship can really make a difference The Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity needs to raise over £600,000 each year to keep essential local Hospice services running including a 12-bedded In-Patient Unit and Day Hospice, based at Stoke Mandeville, Florrie’s Children’s Team, Lymphoedema Clinic, Specialist Community Nursing Teams in North and South Bucks plus a new Nightingale 24/7 Care Team, which provides care and support to patients affected by life-limiting illness in the home at a crucial time of need. This new service officially launched in October, has already helped 16 patients and their families to receive

Andrew Nash care in the familiarity of their own home should this be their preferred choice. • £100 pays for a patient to visit the Lymphoedema Clinic • £120 pays for a Florrie’s Children’s Team visit • £134 pays for a patient to visit the Day Hospice • £20 pays for aromatherapy oils so that patients can enjoy a relaxing therapy when visiting the Day Hospice • £10 pays for a hanging basket for the Hospice courtyard garden • £5 allows a patient to create a memory box • £30 pays for a Nightingale 24/7 patient ‘comfort box’ For further information about all these events please contact Vanessa Sewsarran or Karen Shardlow on: 01296 429975 or email: vanessasewsarran@fnhospice.org.uk or karenshardlow@fnhospice.org.uk Looking ahead to 2014, Florence Nightingale Hospice will be celebrating its 25th anniversary. As part of the anniversary celebrations FNHC will be looking for people to take on a special ‘Trek to Petra’ challenge. For more information and to register your interest now, contact the Fundraising Office. Information and entry details for all these events can also be found online at www.fnhospice.org.uk l Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, Unit 4, Aylesbury Business Centre, Chamberlain Rd, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8DY Tel. 01296 429975 www.fnhospice.org.uk

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

We are not all destined for Centre Court, but tennis, squash and racketball are fun, sociable ways for anyone to get active and improve fitness...

ennis, squash and racketball are all excellent ways to get fit and keep fit - whilst at the same time having fun competing with friends or rivals! It can be a relatively low-cost way to get regular exercise in an environment which some find much more engaging than the gym. “If you want a friendly, inclusive, sociable and cost-effective way to keep fit, there’s no better option than our club,” says Craig Bartlett of Aylesbury Tennis Squash and Racketball Club. “Keep those resolutions this year and visit us to have a look at our facilities and meet our members. To entice you a little bit more, we’re offering a 20% discount for new members joining us in January and February. “Our club is based at the County Ground on Wendover Road, between the Grange School and Elm Farm. We are run by our members, for our members and whether you are new to racket sports, a seasoned veteran, or would just like a sociable venue to frequent,

we would love to welcome you! “We have many internal leagues across all of our sports so cater for all standards - from absolute beginner to semi-professional. A full coaching programme is also available through all sections, with lessons tailored for groups or individuals. We have a thriving junior section and invest heavily in the development of our next generation, with dedicated junior sessions and teams entered into the county leagues.” Full membership details and further information on the club can be found at www.aylesburytennis.org.uk, or you can call Craig direct on: 07912 555909 The club has been in existence for over 100 years and has always played at the present site, which is called ‘the County Ground’ because the Bucks County Cricket team used to play there. The club had just seven grass courts originally and the club’s old pavilion was an army hut that members erected in 1920! Over the years the facilities have been developed and are now some of the best in the county, with 10 floodlit tennis courts and four squash/racketball courts – one of which is a championship glass-backed court with spectator seating for 200. The Club House is comfortably furnished and boasts a subsidised bar with two large flatscreen TV’s, plus table-tennis and pool tables. “Aylesbury Tennis Squash and Racketball

Club is a family-orientated members club that welcomes new members of all abilities,” says Craig. “We have great facilities and our friendly and welcoming environment encourages social participation for all members - we have a varied social calendar with events ranging from golf days and other sporting events to quizzes, dinners and club parties. l Aylesbury Tennis and Squash Club, The County Ground, Wendover Road, Aylesbury, HP21 9NJ Tel: 01296 398230 Craig Mobile: 07912 555909 Website: www.aylesburytennis.org.uk

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Lacking in energy? Bloated? Migraines? Eczema? Many health and weight issues can be helped by understanding how we relate to our diets and then learning how to support good health through correct nutrition. It’s not just what you eat but how your body deals with your daily intake. ...

utritional therapist Maria Bray is a self-confessed foodie. Although having coped with food allergies and asthma since a baby, she became seriously interested in diet and nutrition when at the age of 40 her husband pointed out that she was a size 20 and with a history of diabetes in the family she might be heading for health problems. The mother of three, had worked in the city before getting married and moving out to Wendover to bring up a family. The long days working, drinking and partying had taken their toll she confesses, but she enjoyed food, was a keen cook and had never really thought about the health issues. “I didn’t want to go on a fad diet,” says Maria, “so I started looking at options and a particular nutritional therapist appealed, ‘The Food Doctor’. He advised a detox, then eating sensibly, cutting out a lot of sugar, wheat and dairy, also cutting down on alcohol and exercising. I didn’t cut out the alcohol or exercise but I still lost three stone in six months! I was amazed and decided to find out more about nutrition - it is a fascinating subject and can have such an impact on our lives. I decided to take a course and become a nutritional therapist myself.” Maria did a year’s foundation science course and then took a three year diploma in nutrition at the Institute for Optimum Nutrition in Richmond. She qualified in 2011 and is now a member of the British Association of Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapists and a member of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council. Maria recently set up her own practice in Wendover and is recognised by the Department of Health, the only nationally recognised register of complementary health providers. She is also a registered health provider for PruHealth. “Nutritional Therapy is about helping people support their

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Maria Bray with client at her Wendover consultancy

health through nutrition,” says Maria. “Clients might come to see me if they are feeling ‘under the weather,’ lack energy, or if they have a specific complaint such as bloating, arthritis, PMS, asthma, eczema, or think they may have a food intolerance. They may not want to take medication or they may be taking medication already and want to reduce it. “I aim to help clients achieve their desired health improvements with a mutually agreed and appropriate programme of dietary and lifestyle changes. Advice and support is tuned to your needs whilst based on current scientific research and evidenced clinical findings. “I take a full health history and look at the person, their symptoms, their past health, their current health, any medication, family health and current diet. Nutritional therapy works systemically, to unravel the symptoms the client raises, to consider what is happening within your whole body to cause these symptoms. I consider what is working or not working and why this may be. “The primary system of health is the digestive system. It is how you get nourishment. If your digestive system isn’t functioning properly, your liver won’t be working correctly and neither will your endocrine system, which controls hormones. “I work on a one-to-one basis, enabling you

to understand your own body. In completing your NT programme you should have learned how to help yourself and be able to manage ongoing symptoms. “It might be a case of eating certain foods, food supplements, if you are lacking in certain areas, more exercise, or even lifestyle changes to help you relax properly and get more sleep. “It’s a combination of what you eat and how your body deals with it,” says Maria. “A lot of people drink skimmed milk these days but full fat milk is actually better for us as it’s full of vitamins, specifically vitamin D, which is good for the immune system. Your body needs natural fats too, which are vital for good health.” Maria is happy to organise a free half hour chat to discuss your health problems and how nutritional therapy would help. Should you wish to continue, she will give you a detailed questionnaire to take away and fill out before returning for an initial 90 minute consultation. Three or four visits are usual with several weeks in between, depending on what you would like to achieve. l Maria Bray Nutritional Therapy, 11 Coombe Avenue, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6BX Tel: 01296 581561 Mobile: 07715414719 Email: mjbfood4health@gmail.com Web: www.mariabraynutritionaltherapy.com

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Whether you trek The Himalayas or cycle The Chilterns, make 2013 your year of adventure...

ain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care (IRGH) is calling on supporters throughout Herts and Bucks to take on a new challenge in 2013 and help it to raise funds for its own, evergrowing challenge - that of meeting the needs of a constantly rising number of local patients. There are several fun, active and adventurous ways you can get involved, from exotic trips to fun cycling events: Dream Adventures Camping out under the stars in the Himalayan foothills, bamboo ad_size_90x128:Layout 1 05/12/2012rafting 11:41through Page 1the jungles of Pic by Joel Michell

ird ffer o ly B Ear entry ult t ad n r u e o d p c dis 12.50 er chil £ 0 p til £5.0 alid un only v

1/20

07/0

ay W e i n n e R e Ride th

10k, 35 and 75 mile routes – from family fun to the ultimate Cycle Challenge

Sunday 24th March 2013 Starts in Aylesbury Town Centre

www.rennieway.org

01442 820740 Entry, adult – £15.00 child (5 to16) – £7.50 under 5’s free supported by Fern Britton

Pic by Joel Michell Trekking the Himalayan foothills, Glenys is fourth from left

Thailand or trekking along the Great Wall of China are just some of the dream adventures that supporters could undertake. Overseas challenges are a terrific way to combine the experience of a lifetime with the reward of raising vital funds to support the work of IRGH nurses and family support teams. Glenys de Their, from High Wycombe, pictured above, undertook her first overseas challenge at the age of 74, when she embarked on an 11 day trip trekking through the foothills of the Himalayas. She so enjoyed the experience and found it so rewarding to raise £5,300 for IRGH, that she has set herself a new challenge for 2013. She will soon be off on another exotic adventure to raise further funds, this time a Thailand Jungle Expedition. Glenys highly recommends overseas challenges to others: “If you can spare the time and have no reason not to go, then say ‘yes’,” she says. “It’s a wonderful experience.” To find out more about overseas challenges please go to the IRHH website at: www.irhh.org/sitehome/ fundraising/overseaschallenges.html or call Mark on 01442 820730. Closer to Home For those seeking a more local adventure, The Chilterns Cycle Challenge on Sunday 24th March is back for its third year. After raising over £40,000 last year, this is now

firmly established as one of the charity’s main fundraising events and after the cycling successes of 2012, it is hoped that more people than ever will sign up for the event in 2013. Three routes are available, 10 km, 35 miles and 75 miles, all of which start and finish in Aylesbury Town Centre and take in the beautiful Chilterns Countryside. Entry costs £15 for adults and £7.50 for children including a medal and a T-shirt and all sponsorship money raised from the Cycle Challenge goes to support local patients and their families. Registration is open now on www.rennieway.org or call 01442 820720 for further information. l Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care, 52a Western Road , Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 4BB Tel: 01442 890222 Email: info@irhh.org Website: www.irgh.org.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ iainrenniegrovehouse Twitter: @irghh

Pic by Veronica Stewart

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Health & Fitness

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Setting the tone

aSo studios Dance Fitness and Performing Arts caters for all, no matter what your age or experience and classes are available in 16 local venues. Start 2013 right, try something new and feel great with a warm welcome at KaSo class! The classes are always fun with quality teaching and value for money guaranteed, choose from: Ballet Beautiful - Looking for strong, lean muscles and an elegant posture? Ballet and Contemporary classes for adults work wonders for your body, they also challenge your mind giving you a chance to forget the stresses of your every day - a brilliant way to work out and fine for those with no or little experience. Inspiring Youngsters - a unique menu of classes for parents and their tots from age 2 and for older children up to 15 years. KaSo use a range of learning styles to deliver fun and dynamic

classes: Our Theatre Land, Dance Blitz, Dance Arc, Musical Theatre and young Ballet classes with the following aims: • Encourage creativity • Foster teamwork • Raise confidence • Exercise children safely • Promote self control & discipline • Improve technique

The classes are non-competitive and class sizes are kept low so that children receive plenty of one to one attention. Fine Vintage Fitness - exercising in later life can dramatically reduce the effects of ageing, both physically and mentally. Especially designed for 50+ years, these carefully planned, gentle yet vibrant classes are a mixture of safe toning exercises and light aerobic intervals, all set to wonderful music old and new. In a caring and fun environment, KaSo will help you

progress at your own pace and have a giggle with friends. Existing clients have enjoyed increased joint mobility and reduced back pain and arthritic complaints and one even boasts about dropping two trouser sizes since starting three months ago! l For more information about KaSo Studios classes, locations and prices

see website: www.kasostudios.co.uk, call Kate on 07985 048 880 or Email: sophie@kasostudios.co.uk

Drums & Percussion Education Stagecoach Aylesbury: 01296 747758 aylesbury@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/aylesbury

Now offering lessons on guitar, piano, flute, clarinet and saxophone

Stagecoach Thame: 01865 763767 thame@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/thame

Website: www.dunxdrumschool.com Email: duncan@dunxdrumschool.com Telephone: 01296 651273 Mobile: 07708 733288 22

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Winter Ball A

Ginger-Interiors

ul t if

u unus d n a

You Talk, We Listen - Since 1998

Adjustable Bed & Comfort Chair Specialists

Call us 0845 6011933

Woodway, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0NN Can’t get to us? Call! We will come to you.

Shop online @ www.independentlivingconsultants.co.uk

al items from all

ove r

www. gingerinteriors.co.uk the

Tel: 01296 415035

Email: shop@gingerinteriors.co.uk

ld or

8 Duck Farm Court, Station Way, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 2SQ

physical abilities have diminished, which is incredibly distressing for Alex, his wife Tamsyn, and his young children Monty (9), Lola (7), Mitzi (6) and Esmie (4). This regression will continue if physiotherapy and SLT can’t be increased but the NHS will not fund any more. To help raise cash for this vital treatment ‘Making Waves for Alex’ is hosting a Winter Wonderland Ball on Saturday, 9th February 2013 at Thame Football Club. Tickets are £25 per person and include supper, entertainment and an auction of luxury prizes. Tickets are available from Thame Football Club, Racquets and Brothers Hairdressers in Thame. Please go along for a great night out in support of Alex and his family. If you are able to sponsor Alex in any way or donate an auction prize please contact Pippa or Taruna via email: pippahopcraft@hotmail.com or taruna@gloverhome.co.uk The Making Waves for Alex trust is very grateful for the support received so far from the local community and businesses. http://makingwavesforalex.co.uk/

Be au

lex Wood, 33, suffered a major brain bleed after an accident during rugby training in October 2011. The father of four, underwent two life-saving operations and spent three months in a coma before, against all odds, regaining consciousness. With severe brain damage it was thought he would remain blind, unable to speak and fed through a gastric tube for the rest of his life. At the time of the accident Alex and his family were living in France. £7,000 was raised by family and friends to have him air-lifted back to the UK in February for rehabilitation. The effort resulted in the setting up of a trust ‘Making Waves for Alex’. Once here Alex received intensive rehabilitation or ‘fast streaming’ at the Oxford Centre for Enablement (OCE) with amazing results. Sadly his time at the OCE was limited and he is now at the Chalfont Lodge Care Home where his care has dropped from 10 hours of physio a week to two hours and from five hours of speech therapy a week to 15 minutes. As a result, Alex has already regressed. He is no longer able to verbally communicate and his

Your Local Mobility Shop

@Gingerinteriors

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 : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Vale Life : Dec 12 / Jan 13

Amanda Trott

When it comes to clothes most of us would like to save money and look great! Understanding which colours complement your natural colouring and the styles that best suit your shape, not only helps avoid costly mistakes in the wardrobe department, but will also allow you to build a co-ordinated wearable wardrobe and dress with confidence, whatever the occasion...

f like me, you open your wardrobe and despite the hoards of clothes old and new, can find nothing to wear, don’t despair - help is at hand! Thame-based Katy Dyer (www.katydyer.com) is a fully qualified personal stylist and image consultant for Colour Me Beautiful, Europe’s leading image consultancy: “Despite the wealth of fashion information available,” says Katy, “many women and men still struggle to work out what suits them and how to wear it. By looking at a client’s colouring, body shape, personal tastes and lifestyle, I can help them to understand which clothes work for them and how to co-ordinate them.” When I visited the immaculately turned out Katy at her Thame studio, she explained that by covering me with a white gown, looking at my eye, skin and hair colour and then holding up different swatches of colours and tones, she could determine my own shade family. “Most of us have a fairly good understanding of what suits us,” says Katy, “but what we really want, is to wear colours that bring out the

Does your styling need a tweak? Left: wrong scale. Right: right scale Pictures from the Colour Me Younger Book 24

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Katy, left, and Amanda discuss colour swatches best in us, so that rather than complimenting us on our new top, our friends compliment us on how great we look, in our new top.” Katy’s analysis indicated I was ‘Clear and Warm’ meaning I would be best suited to wearing shades that are contrasting in depth and include bright and vibrant tones. As she held her colour swatches against me it became instantly clear just what a difference the right shade of colour could make. Some shades lifted my complexion and brought my skin and eye colour to life, whereas a different tone of the same colour, made me look tired and pasty. Katy gave me my own personal colour wallet containing 42 fabric swatches, to help me find my own perfect matches. She then used the Colour Me Beautiful range of make up to show me how the different tones could make the most of my own colouring. She stocks the whole range at her studio and prices start from as little as £6. If you are in need of a new wardrobe too, she also stocks samples from the Kettlewell Colours range, and offers advice on their range of colour matched jersey separates, all designed to tie in with your own individual colour wallet. Katy offers a range of services. There’s a Full Colour Analysis (£90 for one person or £80 each for two) which takes an hour and a half. She will show you which colour family you belong to and help you choose clothes and make up to complement this.

Katy uses colour swatches to analyse which shades work best for Amanda Or, if you feel you are in need of a new image, Katy provides a Complete Image Makeover (£190 for 4 hours) which also includes a full colour analysis, a full style consultation and a personalised make up lesson. She also offers personal shopping trips, wardrobe weeds and more. Katy will even help the man in your life find the colours that best work for him. She looks at aspects such as body shape, colouring and personality but also takes into consideration your lifestyle and budget. As Katy says: “sometimes investing a little time and money in finding your own style can lead to huge savings in the future, making fashion faux pas a thing of the past!” So why not start the new year with a visit to Katy? Resolve to makeover your image and avoid wastefully impulse-buying those unusable sale items that get pushed to the back of the wardrobe year after year! Katy has been featured on BBC Radio Oxford and makes regular appearances at seasonal fashion shows and events. She stages regular events of her own and is planning a ‘Capsule Wardrobe Workshop’ and a Spring/ Summer Style Update for the new year. Call or email Katy for further details or register for info on her website. l Katy Dyer Personal Stylist & Image Consultant Tel: 07815 923019 Email: katy@katydyer.com Website: www.katydyer.com

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

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Penny Harper

here are two lies that are perpetuated with every passing winter. The first is that it can be too cold for snow. Tell that to the polar bears. The second is that every kid dreams of a white Christmas. Maybe all the stupid kids do, but the smart ones pray for snow to fall any time after January the 3rd. This is because it generally coincides with the start of the schools’ winter terms. Growing up with parents who were teachers, many a morning was spent with all five of us huddled on Mum and Dad’s bed, hands tightly clasped together, waiting for the local radio station to utter the immortal words… ‘You’re not going in’. Cue screams, streamers and general jubilation…until someone pointed out that THEY still had to. Unlucky, Kentucky. For the chosen few, snow days were hands down the best days in the world. It was like being

Pic by Frank Millar

given the gift of time. Everything existed in suspended animation; as though we were in one gigantic snow-globe. On went the elasticated mittens and out came the makeshift sledge. Dads spent the snow days whizzing kids around the village green on a grow bag with a rope handle; Birmingham was somewhat lacking in hills. Amateurs built crude snowmen in their garden whilst the professionals tackled igloos.

That was in the sanctuary of your own back yard. On the rec, it was full-blown guerrilla warfare. Families divided, big kids formed tribes and prayed on the weak: those who were easily picked off for being like Bambi on ice. Snowball ambushes were quickly followed by surrender and then the forced picking up of the frozen dog turd or worse…the eating of the yellow snow. As the sun set, the wait began again. With each passing dawn there came a reprieve, but the snow eventually stopped falling or didn’t settle and as a result, we couldn’t settle. No one was safe and the radio list got shorter by the day; the snow days reserved for those lucky schools whose boilers had packed up or rooves that had caved in. Eventually some kid would make a giant snowball and swallow up every inch of the white stuff from the green. It would sit, blocking the swings, like some giant’s greying

Small Town

Girl

marble until the local thugs kicked the living daylights out of it. The slush came and the buses could finally get through. Every lawn became strewn with the remains of the snowmen- poor decapitated souls-until all that was left were a few lumps of coal and a soggy scarf. Now in December, we watch the skies and say a little prayer that the snow days will come again. And they will be good.

Ready for a change? Give Intuition a try! Find out why 97% of our customers would recommend us to a friend. Book a January appointment and receive 10% off any hair or beauty treatment when you present this ad. Contact us on 01296 588555. Intuition is a Professional Hair and Beauty Salon located at the centre of Aylesbury at Aylesbury College, Oxford Road, Aylesbury HP21 8PD

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Complimentary Scalp Massage, Hand Massage and Make-up Refresh

BrothersThame Brothers - Oxford Brothers - Thame 16 Buttermarket, Thame, OX9 3EP Tel: 01844 217365

16 Buttermarket, Thame, OX9 3EP 57 The High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AS Brothers - Oxford 57 The High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AS Tel: 01865 250696 Tel: 01844 217365 Tel: 01865 250696 Brothers - Marlow 58 West Street, Marlow, SL7 2BP Tel: 01628 484717

www.brothers-uk.com

Providing the ultimate sa Welcome to our Winter Wonderland

hristmas is a magical time of fairytales and fantasy and while little girls dream of Santa bringing fabulous gifts, older girls might fantasise about being a wonderfully glamorous, real life Cinderella for the night with the most amazing hair ever. At Eclipse Hair Design in Thame the highly trained stylists often harbour their own secret desires to create wild avant garde styles which, although a little impractical for everyday wear would be real showstoppers at even the swankiest of affairs. Just for fun we have decided to give three of our girls free rein to see what their fantasy hairstyles would actually look like. We think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll agree the styles are quite breathtaking and demonstrate brilliantly what a creative and technically adept crew we have. Your wish is our command... Our stylists were given the theme of hair for an avant garde / masquerade ball and their very different looks show an impressive diversity

of ideas and creativity! Principle Designer Heidi inspiration produced her ice queen look, right, with clever use of accessories and lots of wrapping hair round wire. She made blue hair balls and then a white headband to go over the forehead as a focal point. Principle designer Sam did a clever, meticulous and slightly medieval, central basket weave on her model, left, leaving the rest of the hair wild, for a complete contrast. This could easily be adapted for a commercial look. Salon Assistant Emma produced a stunning and quite commercial look on her model, bottom right inset and front cover shot, which was set off with some stunning eye make up by Lorna. We hope you enjoy these fun fantasy looks and would like to wish all our customers a very merry christmas and happy and healthy 2013. From all the team at Eclipse. Please go to our website for more information, offers and news: www.eclipse hair-design.co.uk

Stylist: Principle Designer Sam Probets Model: Kayleigh, 24, from Chinnor Make up: Lorna Shepherd Photographer: Kayleigh Burr Eclipse Hair Design, 56 North Street, Thame, OX9 3BH Tel: 01844 260062 Web: www.eclipsehair-design.co.uk Email: info@eclipsehair-design.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @eclipsethame and Facebook Eclipse Hair design

STOP PRESS... visit our website for up to date information and promotions... www.eclipsehair-design.co.uk 28

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

alon experience

Stylist: Principle Designer Heidi Janes Model: Felicity, 22, from Thame Make up: Lorna Shepherd Photographer: Kayleigh Burr

Stylist: Salon Assistant Emma Jones Model: Gina, 23, from Thame Make up: Lorna Shepherd Photographer: Kayleigh Burr Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Vale Life : Dec Nov/Dec 20122012 / Jan 2013

Wardrobe wonderings... Alex Iszatt’s

Alex Iszatt

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

inter is a tricky balancing act - a seesaw from the warm, snugly, wrapped up in your PJ’s in front of a cosy fireside to the in and out, over-dressed, boiling hot then freezing cold, should you take any layers off steamy flustered side. What to wear for this season is a big quandary - I have tried most things from thermals to ear muffs to achieve that perfect balance - how to keep the chill out, whilst not getting overheated, but to no avail. So, this year I’ve given up and have decided that having a tinge of blue is actually quite fabulous and I aim to embrace the cutting wind as it rouges my cheeks for free! Luckily, accessorising the new skin-tone will be easy thanks to the romantic Russian imperialist influence within fashion this Winter. Forget the politics of the time, just picture St Petersburg square, laden with snow, a Tsarina waits for her love wearing a luxurious, heavily-lined coat, trimmed with fur, bedecked with broaches and pearls. A moment to dwell on the romanticism of the time and it won’t be long before you too are welcoming the cold just so you can slip on a fur hat and muff over your delicate party frock. Continuing with the romantic theme - well, who wouldn’t want a prince in shining armour to come home to? Snuggling up in cosy cashmere with the one you love evokes visions of a secluded log cabin in the alps, perhaps sipping bubbles in front of a roaring fire. OK, so I may be indulging my imagination a little too much but a girl can dream! The new year is the perfect time for a new you, but that doesn’t mean you have to get a whole new wardrobe. Adapting your current clothes can save you pennies and ensure that the LBD isn’t at the back of the wardrobe for another year! Peter Pan collars are everywhere and can be

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Fake fur headband £19.99, What’s About Town

Clutch £45, Monsoon Sugarhill Boutique, Peter Pan collar dress, Isabella’s Closet, Thame

Alexa Faux Fur Coat £115, Monsoon added onto items from T-shirts to dresses updating your look instantly. Haberdasheries like Greens in Thame or Sally’s Sewing Box in Princes Risborough have a bunch of items that can make your outfits unique, from removable shoulder pads to festive ribbon you can use as a belt. Get creative this season, and make your outfit stand out - it is all about you!

Cashmere Taupe Long Wrap £199, Rosie for Autograph lingerie at M&S

Hero Brown

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

l Column:

The urban guide

www.muddystilettos.co.uk

Hero Brown has swapped the bright lights of the big city for fresh air and farmers markets. The ex-glossy magazine editor now blogs about life in the sticks at www.muddystilettos.co.uk and is here to share her urban take on country living with Vale Life Magazine

Hartwell House, nr Aylesbury

Wedding Fayre Sunday 27th January 2013 11am to 3pm Notley Tythe Barn is a beautiful, fully restored 12th-century barn set in picturesque gardens within 500 acres of pasture land at the foot of the Chiltern Hills. It is also an elegant and unique venue for weddings, receptions, parties, functions, celebrations and other special events.

Notley Farm, Chearsley Road, Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire HP18 9ER T: 01844 201226 F: 01844 201226 Notley NotleyFarm, Farm,Chearsley ChearsleyRoad, Road,Long LongCrendon, Crendon, E: weddings@notleyfarm.co.uk Notley Farm, Chearsley 9ER Road, Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire BuckinghamshireHP18 HP18 9ER www.notleyfarm.co.uk Buckinghamshire HP18 9ER T:T:01844 01844201226 201226F:F:01844 01844201226 201226 T: 01844 201226 F: 01844 201226 E:E:weddings@notleyfarm.co.uk weddings@notleyfarm.co.uk E: weddings@notleyfarm.co.uk www.notleyfarm.co.uk www.notleyfarm.co.uk www.notleyfarm.co.uk

o here we are, on the knife-edge of a new year. Which way did it slice for you? And what will you do differently in 2013? Personally I’ve learnt some important lessons over the last 12 months. Like, don’t accelerate through a flood on the country road to Chilton in darkness if you don’t want to kill your car (RIP old engine, hello £6,000 new one). Always book a summer holiday if you want to hold on to your sanity for the rest of the year. And always, always, plan with precision for New Year’s Eve. What to do on December 31st is one of life’s thornier questions. Do you stay in and watch the telly in your PJs with a tub of popcorn and the superior look of someone who hasn’t had to pay £50 for a babysitter? Do you get hammered in the local pub, and see in Jan 1st as you mean to go on - with a monstrous hangover? I’ve managed a couple of brilliant New Year’s Eves in my time, but mostly they’ve been *sniff* a bit disappointing. One year I stayed in a beautiful lodge in Auckland with my boyfriend (now Mr Muddy) with its own beach. It rained so badly all week that we were trapped inside the house as floods and landslides crashed around us. Then there was the time my best friend invited us to West Wales to see the New Year in. I had imagined champagne and canapés. It was a grotty rural pub in the middle of nowhere, the rooms were freezing, and at midnight they brought out free crisps and cheese sandwiches (yeah alright, that bit

The pool at Hartwell House spa was OK). I pondered the PJs option this year. Or a low key dinner party. Then I thought, sod it - I want to shake off 2012 in style! So we’re going with a group of friends to The Charles Napier restaurant in Sprigg’s Alley (just outside Chinnor). If you don’t already know it, it’s a rare thing - a Michelin starred restaurant that takes a very low profile; brilliant, but unpretentious. I shall gorge myself on five courses, dress to kill, get riotously drunk and stagger on my stilettos into 2013 with a big smile. Admittedly, on January 1st it will be time to shrug on my annual dietary hair-shirt and angst over which gym to join and then not attend. Not you though. I’ve saved you that particular hassle. I’m giving away his-and-her-membership to Hartwell House’s exclusive spa/ health club (you just need to register at www.muddystilettos.co.uk - it’s free) in January. So here’s to a happy, healthy New Year! l Follow Hero’s free blogazine Muddy Stilettos for the very best unmissable bits of Oxfordshire and Bucks: www.muddystilettos.co.uk Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

A B C AYLESBURY BULLION COMPANY The Family of Jewellers

11a, High St Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP20 1SH Tel:

01296 423198

Jewellery designed and produced to your specifications, or choose from our extensive range of new, secondhand and antique pieces. l Diamond merchants (certified stones always available) l Antique restorations l Hand engraving

l Valuations: insurance and (carried out on the premises) l Insurance claims advisors l Complete repair service

probate

Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil, Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof testing carried out on the premises. Top prices paid in cash for antique and modern jewellery, watches (especially Rolex), coins, gold, silver, platinum and scrap precious metals. Part exchange available.

11a High Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 1SH

Tel: 01296 423198 www.aylesburybullion.co.uk

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

easonal greetings Vale Life readers from all at Haddenham’s White Hart Studio. Here’s hoping you and your’s are all snuggley and warm in your homes and not having to brave the bitter, winter weather too often. Of course you may wish to wrap up one final time and whizz in for that last minute gift, forgotten card, decoration, or item of homeware that is awaiting you here in the White Hart Studio. Perhaps a beautiful lamp to add that finishing touch to your lounge - it’ll certainly help when the time comes for bleary eyes to decipher the spidery scrawl on some of those gift tags. Or maybe an extra chair, a stylish and comfortable conversation piece for family, a friend, or an unexpected guest? A shabby chic table and chair set for dining room, or conservatory, is perfect for displaying those platters of cold turkey and our chunky chapel candles will add atmosphere and possibly even a romantic flicker to your domestic bliss. We’ve some lovely warm knitwear too though, if you need to further turn up the heat. Have a lovely Christmas and remember, it’ll soon be sale time... 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

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Our House by Melanie Parr

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Charles Huntington Flooring Forget about giving up chocolate or a tipple or two - make a

new year’s resolution to get organised with stylish storage... •Expert Advice Charles Huntington Flooring

•Professional Fitting tidy house may well mean a tidy mind, but who says •Very Competitivebeing neat has to be boring? There are plenty of stylish for Residential and options available locally to hide the Commercial work clutter away or display it to full effect. •Carpets to suit all Budgets •Free Quotes •No Obligation •Free Parking

There are places in every house where stuff magically and mysteriously •Expert Advice accumulates - the trick is to head it off before it gets out of•Professional control, and haveFitting a place for everything.•Very In the Competitive hall, a retro stand is perfect to hang and bags; and forcoats Residential John Lewis, Cargo and Ginger Commercial work Interiors all have a good selection By Alex coat •Carpets suit all to suit different decors. Team to ‘A’ with hideaway shoe storage and stand, Budgets John a letter rack as a staging post •Free Quotes Lewis for all your admin (try Ginger •No Obligation Interiors), and it’ll prevent your hallway from becoming an Parking •Free uninviting dumping ground. Kitchens are the next favourite

Charles Huntington Flooring CARPETS • VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR RODS

OrganiseSAFETY your clothes with Wardrobe•Express dailyTAPES organiser, Ginger Interiors FLOORING WOOD Chalkboard • BINDING

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

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

•Professional Fitting Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm Tel: 01296 337181 Mob: 07767370067 •Very Competitive Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment Web: www.charleshuntington.co.uk Tel: 01296 Mob: 07767370067 for337181 Residential and 23 DUCK FARM COURT, STATION WAY, AYLESBURY, HP20 2SQ Web: www.charleshuntington.co.uk Commercial work DUCK FARM COURT, STATION WAY, AYLESBURY, HP20 2SQ WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON QUALITY OR SERVICE l Independent, family run carpet l Exclusive suppliers of Roger Oates’ l Extensive range of23traditional Charles Huntington Flooring to all beautiful yetsuit hard-wearing runners and flooring specialists. and contemporary flooring •Carpets Charles Huntington Flooring Charles Huntington Flooring NOT BE BEATEN QUALITY OR SERVICE •Expert Advice and rugs inON our local area Charles Huntington Flooring l Expert fitting service. at competitive prices. WE WILL Budgets •Expert Advice Charles Huntington Flooring •Expert Advice •Expert Advice•Free •Professional Fitting Advice •Professional Fitting Quotes•Expert •Expert AdviceFitting •Professional •Professional Fitting •Professional Fitting •Very Competitive •No Obligation •Professional Fitting for Residential and •Very Competitive •Very Competitive •Very Competitive •Very Competitive Commercial work for Residential and Residential and for Residential•Free and •Very Competitive Parking for Commercial work for Residentialwork and Commercial Commercial work

Charles Huntington Flooring

for Residential •Carpets to suit and all Commercial work •Carpets to suit all Budgets Opening Times: Monday to Friday •10am 5pm CARPETS VINYLSuntil • SISAL • STAIR RODS CARPETS • VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR RODS CARPETS Saturday • VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR RODS CARPETS • VINYLS SISAL • Any STAIRother RODS SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES until•RODS 4pm. time•Free by appointment CARPETS • VINYLS • 10am SISAL • STAIR SAFETY FLOORING • WOODQuotes • BINDING TAPES SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES SAFETY FLOORINGTel: • WOOD • BINDING TAPES Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm 01296 337181 Mob: 07767370067 Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm •No Obligation Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm Opening Times: Monday to Friday 10am until 5pm Opening Times: Monday toWeb: Friday 10am until 5pm Saturday 10am until 4pm. Any other time by appointment www.charleshuntington.co.uk Saturday 4pm. Any by appointment Saturday until time 4pm. Any other time Tel: by appointment 07767370067 Saturday10am 10amuntil until 4pm.10am Any other other time by appointment Tel:01296 01296 337181 337181 Mob: Mob: 07767370067 Tel: 337181 Mob:337181 07767370067 Tel: 01296 Mob: 07767370067 Web: •FreeHP20 Parking Tel:01296 0129623 337181 Web:www.charleshuntington.co.uk www.charleshuntington.co.uk DUCK Mob: FARM07767370067 COURT, STATION WAY, AYLESBURY, 2SQ Commercial work •Carpets Budgetsto suit all •Carpets to suit all •Carpets to suit all Budgets •Carpets to suit all Budgets Budgets •Free Quotes CARPETS • VINYLS • SISAL • STAIR RODS Budgets •Free Quotes •Free Quotes •Free Quotes •No Obligation •Free Quotes •No SAFETY FLOORING • •No WOOD • BINDING TAPES •No Obligation Obligation •FreeObligation Parking •No Obligation •Free Parking •Free Parkingvinyl, •Free l Carpet, sisal,Parking coir, hardwood •Free Parking l Domestic and commercial

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Our House by Melanie Parr

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Where to get the look... Ginger Interiors 8 Duck Farm Court, Aylesbury, HP20 2SQ; 01296 415035; www.gingerinteriors.co.uk Lucas Furniture Rabans Lane, Aylesbury, HP19 8RE; 01296 486255; www. lucas-furniture.co.uk John Lewis Home Holmers Farm Way, Cressex Centre, High Wycombe, HP12 4NW 01494 462666; www.johnlewis.com

Scallywags bed (above), Lucas Furniture; Fuchsia sliding wardrobe (right), Wardrobe Express chalkboard daily organiser to keep a resting place for ‘how did that get weekly note of who’s going where. there?’ stuff. Joseph Joseph is the Elsewhere, rather than opting king of clever and quirky ideas to for unobtrusive solutions, make a keep your kitchen in order. Make statement with storage. The your draining board a thing of beauty Design Company has with Joseph Joseph’s drainer and sink a brilliant range of caddy (available from Steamer Trading storage chests, from Company and John Lewis). Also check mock croc stripes to out its Nest bowls and utensils and vintage union jack fold-flat colander. As well as Joseph designs. And chests Joseph innovations, Steamer Trading of drawers are adorned has lots of stylish kitchen storage, such with retro images from as retro-chic Orla Kiely cake Cityscape Letter rack, tins and canisters, and Ginger tallboy, The Design New York cityscapes to classic screen Kilner jars for elegantly Company Interiors sirens such as Marilyn stashing away pasta, rice, Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. Meanwhile, John lentils and other dry foodstuffs. Lewis has added colour to sideboards with its The Design Company and Leonard Pfiefer Abbeywood chest. Ginger Interiors have plenty of Kids bedrooms are another room where the pretty and useful hooks to keep everything off worktops. Head rule is definitely the more storage the better. As well as wardrobes and drawers galore, Lucas also to Ginger Interiors for the Joseph Joseph Nest bowls, Steamer Trading Company Treviso desk, Ercol

Continued overleaf Joseph Joseph sink caddy drainer, Baroqueand pearl lights, John Lewis The Lighting Bug

Tilly Nilly 01844 220035; info@tillynilly. com; www.tillynilly.com

Clock organiser, Tillynilly

The Design Company 5-7 Duke Street, Princes Risborough, HP27 0AT; 01844 690409; www.fabandfunky.co.uk Wardrobe Express 01525 854142; info@wardrobe express.com; www. wardrobe express.com Steamer Trading Company 109 High Street, Thame, OX9 3DZ; 01844 217389; www.steamer.co.uk Cargo Homeshop 19-20 High Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1SS and 18 Cornmarket, Thame, OX9 2BL; www. cargohomeshop.com Dudley Wingrove 01844 212132; info@ dudleywingrove.co.uk; www.dudleywingrove.co.uk

French stripe storage chests, The Design Company

Ercol For stockists’ details, call 01844 271800; sales@ercol.com; www.ercol.com

Tea and coffee pot hooks, The Design Company

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

35 3

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Our House by Melanie Parr

Leonard Pfeifer Abbeywood chest, John Lewis

Savane bed with pull-out guest beds, Lucas World of Furniture Continued from previous page Furniture has clever beds that are both bright and have plenty of room to store clothes and toys. The Savane also has not one but two extra pull-out beds for sleepover guests. For bright and bold sliding wardrobes, or indeed more neutral designs, no matter how difficult Norway four-tier bathroom shelving unit, Cargo Homeshop

your space, head to Wardrobe Express. Meanwhile, for bespoke solutions anywhere in your home, Dudley Wingrove has 30 years woodworking experience and Orla Kiely cake can sort out anything from untins, Steamer derbed drawers to bookcases, Trading Company wardrobes and fitted kitchens, even deluxe storage for wine - something that never accumulates for long enough in this house.

Plate hooks (top), Ginger Interiors; flower hooks, The Design Company Underbed drawers, Dudley Wingrove

l Melanie Parr is a home interiors journalist with many years’ experience on a range of well-known homes magazines. If you have a features idea, or would like your business featured, please email editor@vale-life.co.uk

Telephone: 01844 208401 Mobile: 07732 329118 Email: info@landmarkgardendesign.com Website: www.landmarkgardendesign.com

Shop online for home, garden and gifts www.tillynilly.com/store The professional design and build service for residential and commercial property

Handblown glass at The Gallery Stoneworld 43a Upper High Street, Thame OX9 2DW ‘Made for you’ service includes soft furnishings, curtains and blinds For more information or quotation www.tillynilly.com Thame 01844 220035 36

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

From fence panels and back door steps, to complete garden redesigns with paving, turfing, excavations, retaining walls and planting, driveways, patios, decking, water features, ponds...

Avoid the Spring rush! Call now for details of our Early Bird Discount - contact Rodney on: 07732 329118

5707 Lucas Stressless V.Life Ad_. 13/12/2012 11:51 Page 1

Indulge in comfort for less

Now

£995 Save £354

Stressless® Orion Recliner and Stool in Batick Latte and natural wood

THE LUCAS FURNITURE WINTER

SALE NOW ON

Call 01296 486255 • www.lucas-furniture.co.uk • Rabans Lane, Aylesbury HP19 8RE *Stressless® Orion recliners with footstools are available in Batick Latte leather with natural wood finish now £995. Save £354 was RRP £1,349 and now Recommended Promotional Price £995. Offer available between 1st December 2012 and 28th February 2013. While stocks last at participating Stressless® retailers only.

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Given a choice we’d all like to work closer to home. Awardwinning designer Tom Sparkes, has set up a studio at his house near Aylesbury and is already enjoying designing kitchens for homes in the Vale rather than having to trek into London...

s a lad Tom Sparkes lived in Hardwick, near Aylesbury. He started his career in kitchen design with locally based firms, Simon Taylor Furniture and Underwood Kitchens. For ten years Tom was Design Director at Veritas in Gerrards Cross during which time

he created many exciting, imaginative bespoke designs, both contemporary and traditional, for clients in London and the home counties, which were often featured in glossy homes and interiors magazines. His business is now called Inspired Designs, but Tom is not just a designer. With some 25 years experience in the industry he supplies and project manages an installation from initial design concept to completion and has assembled a team of trusted, qualified craftsmen with whom he has worked over the years and knows he can rely on. “I’ve completed a lot of work in the London area,” says Tom, “but it’s getting more difficult travelling in and out and there are so many problems with parking and access. I’ve really enjoyed working closer to home more recently. It gives me the opportunity to provide a much more personal service, as there is less travelling involved and I can be available to take care of the detailed management of each ongoing project myself. “Of course without the overheads involved in running a showroom I can now offer the same high quality design service at a more competitive price too.” Tom does not have a formal showroom although clients can view a large range of samples and photographs of many previous Children’s bedroom design

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Tom Sparkes projects at his home design studio. He takes pride in the fact that many of his former clients are happy to show off the quality of design and craftsmanship in the furniture in their own homes supplied by Tom and now there is a growing pool of local work it is easy to visit one or two in situ, nearby if desired. “The kitchens I design and install usually cost between £20,000 and £80,000,” says Tom. “I also do bedrooms and studies. I specialise in luxury, handcrafted, bespoke, English kitchens and a range of contemporary German built kitchens. They are both beautiful and of the highest quality. The English kitchens are totally bespoke and can be tailored to fit in with your existing decor, or match your windows etc. . The styling can

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Trina and Shamus

be traditional or modern. The German range tends to have a sharper, bolder, more modern look and there’s a huge selection of colours and finishes to choose from: high gloss, matt and silk-matt laquered finishes, vaneers, painted doors, anything is possible! “I’ve worked on the factory side, so I’ve a good understanding of the construction process and I am a designer rather than a draughtsman, with over 25 years experience, so I will come up with ideas and inspirations based on the client’s requirements and instructions. After an initial client consultation and site survey I’ll draw up plans and impressions of what the kitchen could look like and we then discuss any changes or additions the client might like incorporated.

We look at different finishes, we might even go to the granite yard and look at samples, I’ll complete costings and we can look at tiles and flooring if the client would like me to organise these areas too. If required electrical and plumbing specifications are included, it’s a fully managed project service, not just a kitchen layout. Whilst I can just supply the units, I prefer to see that they are professionally installed as well.” Tom likes to hand-draw his designs, although he also produces CAD images: “I find it a more creative process,” he says. He also designs and supplies built-in furniture for bedrooms and studies: “It is about the design and the quality of the furniture,” he says. “I specialise in mid to top end products

and I offer a very personal service. I’m not trying to compete with kitchen warehouses, I supply a high quality design and management service with high quality products.” If you are looking for a quality kitchen and an inspired design Tom is your man. If you live locally, even better, Tom is happy to come to your home for a chat, or you can visit his home studio in Sedrup. You could say it’s a home from home service. l Inspired Designs, 15 Meadoway, Sedrup, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP17 8QJ Tel: 01296 748525 Mobile: 07710 424940 Email: tom@designs-inspired.co.uk Website: www.designs-inspired.co.uk

Home studio/office design

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

eden

Available Now

Open from Thursday to @berryfields Monday, 10am to 4pm & 3 BED MORE 2 S NOW 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 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.

Free CAD design and A personal service, visuals help bring to life your brand-new kitchen including full

project-management

Competitive pricing throughout the year An extensive range of luxury German kitchens

An extensive range of luxury German kitchens

Traditional and modern bespoke furniture to suit all tastes

A personal service, including full project-management

A one-stop solution

A one-stop solution Free CAD design and help An extensive range bring to Anvisuals extensive range oflife of luxury German kitchens your German brand-new kitchen luxury kitchens Traditional and modern

Competitive Traditional andpricing modern bespoke furniture to throughout the suit all tastes bespoke furnitureyear to suit all tastes

A personal service, including full personal service, project-management

Free CAD design and visuals help bring to life your brand-new kitchen

A including full Competitive pricing Competitive pricing ewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279throughout 900the year | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk A one-stop solution project-management throughout the year Free CAD design and visuals help bring to life your brand-new kitchen

Free CAD design and

A one-stop solution visuals help bring to life your brand-new kitchen

info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk

Free CAD design and Competitive visuals help bring topricing life throughout the year your brand-new kitchen

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

Amazing offers from

Great deals on bedroom furniture

Hypnos ex-showroom stock at clearance prices

info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk

Viewing by appointment Tel: 01844 202418 www.crendonfurniture.co.uk

Special Offer Package

info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk Save ÂŁ200 !

Now only ÂŁ1299.99

5ft Bedstead 2 Door Wardrobe 4 Drawer Chest 2 x 3 Drawer Bedside Chests 3 Drawer Dressing Table Stool & Swivel Mirror Crendon Furniture Outlet, Unit 4C, Drakes Drive, Long Crendon Industrial Estate, Long Crendon, Bucks, HP18 9BA Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Sewing the seeds

t’s almost the end of the year, and hopefully your gardens have been tidied up and are looking after themselves over the winter. I’ve still got my eye on cutting a few twigs, which I’m going to turn into a star, entwined with fairy lights to hang at the window, and I still venture out to top up the bird feeders and make sure our menagerie are fed, watered and warm! But mostly my thoughts about the garden are looking to the new gardening year. There’s planning to be done, seeds to be sorted (talking of which, put February 16 and 17 in your diary. A Seed Weekend will be held at Waddesdon Manor, with specialist seeds on offer and a chance to swap seeds too!), more to be ordered and the odd check on the allotment to do, but I’d love to learn some more about gardening next year. And I thought you might too, especially in the dull couple of months after Christmas, so here are a few ideas for you Waterperry Gardens is a beautiful place to visit, but it is also the venue for a whole host of workshops and courses on how

to make the most of your outdoor space. One thing everyone seems to struggle with is pruning, so a workshop that aims to take the mystery out of it could be a good place to start. The gardens’ orchard manager prunes hundreds of fruit trees each winter and will share his knowledge with you in a Fruit Pruning Workshop on January 16 2013. The cost of the workshop is £45. Shrub pruning is tackled on January 26, and if you fancy carpets of snowdrops and hellebores, then a day spent finding out about their maintenance, propagation and so on could be right up your street. That workshop runs on February 6. There are a number of courses held at Waterperry throughout the year. Head to www.waterperry gardens.co.uk/categories/Courses or call 01844 339254 for more. Winslow’s Rhubarb & Roses also runs a number of courses and workshops. Many of them are based around floristry, and are well worth a look, but the courses that may appeal to gardeners include Simple Garden Design, a new class designed to help budding gardeners

understand the basics of designing and updating your garden. The one-day class costs £75 and runs on March 14 and October 18. I’ve talked before in this column about growing flowers for cutting, and if that appeals to you, the halfday Cutting Garden Workshop is for anyone who loves flowers and wants to learn to plant and harvest flowers from the garden from April to November. Seeds and plants are included to get you started and the course costs £50, on April 11. For more on courses at Rhubarb & Roses head to www.rhubarband roses.com or call 01296 711158.

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

And if you’ve yet to ask Santa for a present, leave this magazine open at this page and he might get the hint! Merry Christmas and a very happy New growing Year to you all. l Naomi Mackay is a freelance

journalist who works on national consumer magazines, newspapers and websites. She is running a series of workshops for local businesses on writing for the web and social media. Prices start at just £30 a delegate if you quote code VLDec12. Email naomi mackay@gmail.com for details.

Come and Grow With Us at Waterperry Gardens. Arts, Crafts & Gardening Courses at Waterperry Gardens Choose from a wide range of gardening courses including the RHS Level 2 and 3 Certificates in Horticulture and a whole host of new art, crafts and writing courses. Visit www.waterperrycourses.co.uk or phone 01844 337266 for a full list of courses.

Learn a new skill in the beautiful surroundings of Waterperry Gardens Waterperry, Near Wheatley, Oxford OX33 1JZ. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

waterperry_courses_ad.indd 1

04/12/2012 15:58

from design to build The Loggia Conservatory Modern Glass Extensions Cross Over Extensions Traditional Conservatories

01844 208605 The Loggia

Visit our showroom. Open Mon-Sat.

New Stables, Notley Farm, Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9ER | www.crendonconservatories.co.uk 42

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Aylesbury’s No.1 Driveway and Patio Company TH ON CIA THE ASS O EC IAASTSI O OTFI O N O F BA LO V IN NTGR C T RRASC T O R S BLOCK P V ICNKG PA CO AO CN TO TH E OACSISAO A TO I OFN O F SS T ICOI N TTHHEE AASSSSOOCCI IAATTI IOONN OOFF T H E A BK L OPA C VKI NPA I NOGN TCROANCTTROARCST O R S PAVVI INNGG CCOONNTTRRAAC BCLTTOOC G VC BBLLOOCCKK PA RR SS

APPA RP OPVREO DV C O NCTORNATCRTAO ED CR TOR

A DOCNOT N OVVEED D C CAO OPN N RPOA ARVCO PTTP RR ETV DOER C R TAR CAT C OTRO R AAPPPPRRO

THE AS SOCIATION OF B L O C K PA V I N G C O N T R A C T O R S

APPROVED CONTRACTOR

www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk

“Aylesbury’s No. 11 Driveway Patio Company” “Aylesbury’s No. Patio Company” www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk “Aylesbury’s No. 1No. Driveway and Patio Company” “Aylesbury’s No. 1Driveway Driveway and Patio Company” “Aylesbury’s 1Driveway and Patio Company” andand Patio Company” www.haydonhillpaving.co.uk   Permeable Paving kerbs Specialist  Gravel & Block Paving  Free Decorative Walls &Design Fencing  Residential/Drop  Drainage/Groundworks  Free Quotation Design Residential/Drop kerbs Drainage/Groundworks  Quotation && “Aylesbury ’s No. 1 Driveway and Patio Company”  Residential/Drop kerbs  Drainage/Groundworks  Free Quotation & Design  Residential/Drop kerbs  Drainage/Groundworks  Free Quotation &Design Design  Residential/Drop kerbs  Drainage/Groundworks  Free Quotation &  kerbs  Drainage/Groundworks  Free & Design  Residential/Drop Slabbing & Natural Stone  Resin Bond Driveways  Quotation Free Quotation & Design  Permeable Paving Specialist  Drive Repair/Clean/Seal  10-YearProduct ProductGuarantee Guarantee  Permeable Paving Specialist  Drive Repair/Clean/Seal  10-Year  Residential/Drop Kerbs  Drive Repair/Clean/Seal   10-Year Product Guarantee  Permeable Paving Specialist Specialist  Repair/Clean/Seal  10-Year Product Guarantee  Permeable Paving Specialist  Drive Repair/Clean/Seal  10-Year Product Guarantee  Permeable Paving  Drive Repair/Clean/Seal 10-Year Product Guarantee  Permeable Paving  Drive Drive Repair/Clean/Seal  10-Year Product Guarantee Residential/Drop kerbsSpecialist Drainage/Groundworks  Free Quotation & Design  Slabbing && Natural Stone  Gravel & Block Paving  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Slabbing Natural Stone  Gravel & Block Paving  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Landscaping & Artificial Grass  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Permeable Paving Specialist  Drive Repair/Clean/Seal  10-Y ear Product Guarantee  Slabbing & Natural Natural Stone  Gravel & Block Paving  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Slabbing &Natural Natural Stone  Gravel &Block BlockPaving Paving  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Slabbing & Stone  Gravel &  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Slabbing & Stone  Gravel & Block Paving  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative Walls &  Waste Carrier Licence  Drainage/Groundworks  Tarmacadam: Red/Black  Waste Waste Carrier Licence Slabbing & Natural Stone Gravel & Block Paving  £5m Public Liability Insurance  Carrier Licence  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative Walls & Fencing Fencing  Waste Carrier Licence  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative Walls & Fencing  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative Walls Fencing  Waste Carrier Licence  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative &&Fencing  Waste Carrier Licence  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative WallsWalls &Walls Fencing  Waste Carrier Licence  Disabled/Wheelchair Access  Decorative & Fencing  Waste Carrier Licence

01296 336641 // /07853 698168 01296 336641 07853 698168 01296 336641 698168 01296 336641 / 07853 698168 01296 336641 / 07853 07853 698168 01296 336641 698168 698168 References are available from many local satisfied customers! References are available from many local satisfied customers! References available many local satisfied customers! References are available from many local satisfied customers! References are available from many local satisfied customers! References are available from many local satisfied customers! References are are available fromfrom many local satisfied customers!

A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd

3/2/11

A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd 1 A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd 1 A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd 1 A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd 1 1 A5_2pp_leaflet_Jan11.indd 1

3/2/11 17:33:15 3/2/11 17:33:15 3/2/11 17:33:15 3/2/11 17:33:15 17:33:15 3/2/11 17:33:153/2/11

Enhanced formula

r tr S od p uc ec to ial ry of fe in

• • • • •

17:33:15

Successfully trialled and tested by AGA

Advanced Home Heating Oil New enhanced formula Successfully trialled and tested by AGA Delivered exclusively by BUTLER FUELS Performance, Protection, Peace of mind

To take advantage of our special introductory offer call BUTLER FUELS today and quote “VALE”.

01296 568242 BUTLER FUELS LIMITED, part of the GB Oils / DCC Group

Butler Fuels EASTERNADS1101 Glowmax Ad - Vale Mag.indd 1

BUTLER FUELS Your trusted oil supplier www.butlerfuels.co.uk Vale Life : Dec 201217/01/2012 / Jan 2013 43 09:03

l Column:

Ruby Moukli ‘Tomayto Tomaaahto’

y now you know I’m American, but it may not be readily evident that I’m also halfPalestinian and spent much of my childhood in the Middle East. Christmas there was, like me, a bit of a cultural mash-up. Santa arrived by camel, and sometimes helicopter, sweltering in his red suit and hiding behind sunglasses. In the morning we raced to see what he had left under our decorated palm tree. And every hot, sandy Christmas our parents did their best to provide the snow we so longed for. They sprayed foam on the windows and hung paper snowflakes from the ceilings. And Mom baked these delicate sugar cookies that melted in our mouths, just like we imagined snow would. I call them Palestinian, in honour of my roots and with a triumphant nod to recent political events, but they are

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Palestinian Snowballs (Ghraibeh) (makes 3-4 dozen)

What You Need: 225g ghee 225g superfine sugar 300g sifted plain flour 35g icing sugar for dusting (optional)

in fact common to the entire Levant region. Politics aside, these ‘snowballs from the Holy Land’ should be welcome on Christmas tables worldwide.

What You Do: 1. Preheat oven to 220 Celsius. 2. Beat butter and superfine sugar until white and fluffy (about 20 minutes). 3. Add flour slowly and continue to beat until smooth. 4. Pinch off a spoonful of dough and roll it into a ball in your hands. Gently flatten it into a dome-shape on an ungreased baking tray. 5. Continue until dough is all used and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. If the tops start to brown, remove immediately. 6. Cool completely before removing from the baking tray, and do so very gently as they are extremely fragile. 7. Place on presentation platter and dust with icing sugar for snowball effect.

Notes: 1. Ghraibeh are traditionally formed into ovals or s-shaped cookies and decorated with only a pine nut or slivered almond. 2. Some Arab cooks add a few drops of orange blossom or rose water, or a pinch of ground cardamom, to the dough for more fragrant variations. 3. If you don’t have enough baking trays, line one with parchment and re-use it for each batch without disturbing the cookies from their parchments. 4. To make superfine sugar, blitz caster sugar in a blender for 10 seconds. 5. Ghee is available in most Asian markets.

l Ruby Moukli blogs at www.tomaytotomahto.com

Win dinner for two at The Unicorn

he Unicorn in Cublington has just been officially crowned the Overall Winner of the Aylesbury Vale Village Pub of the Year Competition 2012! It’s the second time in 4 years, the pub has earned this honour and is testament to the entire Unicorn team who have worked so hard to make it a real destination pub for their most excellent food, relaxed, friendly atmosphere and charming surroundings. The cosy 17th Century village Freehouse is very much the village

pub, but has an excellent kitchen and has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes for the last three years now. “The food is fresh and locally sourced where possible,” says chef Chris George. “We serve traditional British food with a French influence and a modern twist.” The Unicorn is open from 10.30am every day for coffee and cake, and earlier on Saturdays when they serve breakfasts from 9-11am. You can have afternoon tea from 3-5pm, cream teas and finger sandwiches, or just pop in

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

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

for a hot chocolate. If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning dinner for two, with a bottle of house wine, at The Unicorn, Cublington, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk How many horns has a unicorn? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by January 20th, 2013.

l The Unicorn, High Street, Cublington, Buckinghamshire, LU7 0LQ Tel: 01296 681261 Website: www.theunicornpub.co.uk

l Column: Matt

Brown ‘One Hungry Gent’

All consuming Matt Brown

passion

ONE Hungry Gent

here’s no denying the fact that we love food, right..? I write a food column and you are currently reading the aforementioned food column - unless you’re using this as a way of tricking someone you fancy that you are a more attractive person than you really are... If that is the case then good on yer, says I. I write this column for that exact same reason. Two l Listen to Matt Brown on Heart years on, it isn’t having the desired Breakfast With Matt and Michelle (weekdays 6-9am 102.6FM). effect I’m sorry to say. Anyway, I Tweet Matt at twitter.com/frazzleddaddy thought that I’d use my last column www.onehungrygent.blogspot.com of 2012 to dreamily reminisce Snowflake Potatoes (like Elvis about all the wonderful things I’ve had for Christmas dinner in 1958), had in my gob over the last twelve dreaming of pork as I fed the months. So, in a kind of order I piggies, slow roasted tomatoes give you my year in food… on toast, Lardy cake and My mate’s killer ‘Several pints of hot chocolate, anchoiade roast beef on New Legless Rambler and on toast in front of the Year’s Day, bacon fire, cutting up a pig’s butties in wintery Granny Wobbley’s head with an axe (the Wendover woods, Fudge Pantry’ pig was already dead), 3 the last few sloe gin barbecues in one day, delicious and tonics from last year’s wobbly pig head stock, friendship stock, treacle tart down the pub,

Stay Warm This Winter! Dry Logs

Prompt Delivery

Vale Life : Nov/Dec 2012

Napier, chakri and farsi puri from cake, breakfast in bed on Fathers’ Palvi’s mum, no sloes for gin, Day, several pints of Legless barfi sweets at Divali, slow cooked Rambler during Sussex weekend onions for English dogs on Bonfire away, Granny Wobbly’s Fudge Night, spicy chicken noodle soup, Pantry (an actual shop and near homemade Christmas ham from perfect euphemism), eating in the my home fattened pig! biggest McDonald’s in the world, Who knows what next year the continuing quest for the perfect might hold, personally if I had a boiled egg, Monkshood coffee, cursingle complaint about this year ing my own pancetta, beer-fuelled it would be that 2012 didn’t have camping (it’s the only way to enough caviar in it. camp), Bombay Bad Boy (alright So, listen up 2013. Get your I’m not proud), trying to eat a caviar shiz together and then we’ll 72oz steak in one hour, both be a bit rounder but an awful getting through 32 oz of lot happier. steak in 28 My most mins, making sincere wishes bread with my that your kids, my son’s Christmas recreation of and new year Christ’s exceed all crucifixion in expectations dough form and go off with (it’s what he Matt’s verdict on 2012 rip roaring joy would have ‘Not enough Caviar in it’ and happiness. wanted), 6 jars of homemade l Matt is currently appearing as piccalilli, 100 sausages from my own pig, homemade brawn, Nutella Starkey in Peter Pan at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. on toast, pork scratchings, the Hear Matt’s Creepy Valley tales perfect roast chicken, the best bouillabaisse ever from the Charles at http://thecreepyvalley.com

TREAT YOURSELF TREAT YOURSELF

Pick Up Only

Pre-Packed Coal

For Open Fires & Multifuel Stoves

Visit Us For:

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

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

Fine Fine Handmade Handmade Chocolates Chocolates • • Luxury Luxury Hot Hot Chocolate Chocolate Fine Chocolates • Luxury Hot Crema Coffee & Specialist Teas Fine Handmade Handmade Chocolates • Luxury Hot Chocolate Chocolate Crema Coffee & Specialist Teas Crema Coffee & Specialist Teas Freshly Baked Croissants • Pastries and Crema Coffee & Specialist Teas Freshly Baked Croissants • Pastries and Cakes Cakes Freshly Baked Croissants • and Cakes A wonderful selection of savouries for lunch Baked Croissants • Pastries Pastries and AFreshly wonderful selection of light light savouries forCakes lunch A wonderful selection of light savouries for A wonderful selection of light savouries for lunch lunch

All All at at our our Chocolateries Chocolateries in in Thame Thame and and Wendover Wendover All at our Chocolateries in Thame and Wendover All atChristmas our Chocolateries in Thame andour Wendover Order chocolates now from website

Buy chocolates online Buy chocolates online at: at: Buy chocolates Buywww.rumseys.co.uk chocolates online online at: at: www.rumseys.co.uk www.rumseys.co.uk www.rumseys.co.uk Hold a meeting or a party at our Thame shop Hold a meeting or a party at our Thame shop Hold meeting or a at our the Art of Chocolatier Hold a a Learn meeting a party party our Thame Thame shop shop Learn theor Art of the theat Chocolatier Learn the the Art Art of of the the Chocolatier Chocolatier Learn Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @rumseyschoc Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @rumseyschoc Follow Follow us us on on Facebook Facebook and and Twitter Twitter @rumseyschoc @rumseyschoc

Thame Thame 01844 01844 260303 260303 || Wendover Wendover 01296 01296 625060 625060 Thame Thame 01844 01844 260303 260303 || Wendover Wendover 01296 01296 625060 625060 Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Is it a bar? Is it a café? Is it a community centre? Well yes and no - The Hub is all these things and more and it’s just up the road in Aston Clinton...

verybody seems to be talking about The Hub at Aston Clinton. The ex-1950s sports and social club has been given a £250,000 makeover and now houses a friendly and flexible community facility, complete with restaurant and bar, coffee shop and sports bar and is open to the general public seven days a week. Local clubs and businesses are booking in for meetings, there’s parties, weddings, christenings and wakes taking place and a variety of charity events. In the spacious restaurant a wide range of hot and cold drinks, healthy snacks, lunches and evening meals are served plus the ever popular Sunday roast lunches. The Hub is ideally situated with lovely views, about 100m from London Road on the edge of Aston Clinton Park, a popular spot with dog walkers, joggers, cyclists and ramblers. It has been taken on and is being run as a family business by Ben Reid and his father Gary Brennan. Ben has lived in Aston Clinton most of his life and went to Aston Clinton Primary and then John Colet in Wendover. His father got him interested in skiing at an early age, in the days when Hemel ski slope was a dry run. Ben showed a natural talent for

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Ben Reid behind the main Hub bar the sport and from the age of 15 spent much of his time in Austria, training to be a professional skier, his main aim being to compete at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia. Sadly after years of hard work and training, Ben has had to retire due to an ankle injury sustained in a crash last February. He has thrown himself, with equal effort and enthusiasm, into the running of The Hub though: “Obviously it is disappointing,” says Ben, “but this is a great opportunity for me. When I was training in Austria I worked at the hotel where I lived, to help pay for my board and learnt a bit about catering. It was a huge four star 350 room hotel with massive kitchens and I worked in quite a few different areas. Over there bars have much more of a family feel and we thought that if we could offer something similar here it should work just as well.

“The Hub used to be Aston Clinton Social Club. We have totally refurbished the building and spent a lot having professional kitchens installed. It has cost a fair bit to get the place set up, but we now have three full-time chefs working here and we are serving food from 9am to 9pm seven days a week! “We open at 9am and serve our breakfast menu until 12noon. Then from 12pm to 9pm there’s a lunch/dinner menu available. “The bar is open from 11.30am to 10.30pm in the week and on Saturdays until 11pm.” The Hub is already proving popular with the many people who come to use the recreational facilities at Aston Clinton Park. There is a skateboard park, a fitness trail, a tennis club (which is currently having new all-weather courts and floodlights installed), football pitches, including a floodlit Astro

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

open air activities. In the short term The Hub will be open on Christmas Day but not Boxing Day and a ticketed party night is scheduled for New Year’s Eve. Music and entertainment nights are planned too with locally based magician Sylar due to perform in December as well. “We’ve called it The Hub as we’d like it to be a hub for the village, a real community facility,” says Ben. “We’re trying to offer something for everyone and the facilities are available for hire too.” Adam Bailey, pictured left, is already a frequent visitor: “I come because there’s a lovely, relaxed, family environment here,” he says, “and I love the Chilli Beef and Egg Noodles!” l The Hub, The Park, London Road, Aston Clinton, Buckinghamshire, HP22 5HL Contact: Ben Reid, Manager Tel: 07795 818787 Email: Ben@TheHubAstonClinton.co.uk Website: www.TheHubAstonClinton.co.uk

Jane Stroud Hub regular Adam Bailey Turf pitch, a bowls club and a lovely children’s adventure playground. “We get a lot of dog walkers here,” says Ben, “but also mums with babies and toddlers. We cater for a mixed age range from babies to pensioners, teens, families, everyone really. “In the sports bar we have satellite TV and show all the major sporting events as they happen - not just football but golf, rugby, tennis, we can run three different channels at once so even if there’s more than one event on we’ll show both if people would like to watch.” Head chef Sharon Simms is ex JB Weatherspoons and an experienced caterer. Her new Hub menu looks inviting and reasonably priced: from a full English breakfast at £5 to soups and wraps to paninis, to main meals such as Gammon, Egg and

Chips (£7.50), Cod and Chips (£6.50), Chilli Beef with Egg Noodles (£6.50), Sirloin Steak and Chips (£12.50), Sausage and Mash with Onion Gravy (£5.50), or a Chicken and Bacon Salad (£6.50), it’s good wholesome fare. Roast dinners are available on Sundays from 12noon to 6pm at £7.95 with dessert an additional £3. A children’s menu is available too and there’s some very nice coffee (Stokes) and an excellent selection of homemade cake! A range of wines and champagnes are available (from £13.50 a bottle) and the bar tariff seems to offer good value too with lager and Doombar bitter at £3.10 a pint. The Hub should really come into its own in the warmer months when, with direct access to the park and a rear patio area that can hold around 100 people, it will be an ideal refreshment stop for those enjoying some

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Column: Emma Ward‘Country Girl’

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

On the beaten path

t this time of year most people’s thoughts turn to Christmas, New Year, parties, presents and resolutions. However, for the country sports enthusiast the winter months provide additional excitements that inspire child-like delight in the fullest grown of men. I am talking about game shooting, in particular the pheasant season. Long since considered the reserve of the very wealthy, game shooting has become more mainstream and accessible since its hey-day in Victorian and Edwardian Britain. Say ‘shooting’, and those not familiar with the sport might picture lavish shooting parties such as those dramatised in ‘Downton Abbey’, times have changed though. Although I have been familiar with the various field sports since a young age, I have been involved with driven shooting for the past

five years or so and last year some friends set up their own shoot, which allowed me to become much more involved. Although shooting has traditionally been a male dominated activity,

women are welcome to get involved nowadays. I do not trust myself with a gun, though, so I proffered my services beating (driving the birds out), helping with hospitality and sipping homemade sloe gin. The actual shooting is in fact only part of the day; the social side being paramount. Breakfast and lunch is provided

Horsewyse CIC

for the guns, but it is the shoot dinner in the evening which is most eagerly anticipated. It not only provides nourishment after a long day outdoors, but, during dinner the day is mulled over and debated with much hilarity; who bagged the most birds, which drive was the best, and exactly whose dog was out of control? The delicious meal for this recent shoot was cooked by my very talented sister and we went through a trial run a couple of weeks before shoot day, closely followed by a trip to Tesco where we were eyed suspiciously as we filled the trolley with insane amounts of Gordon’s gin, red wine and enough cheese to sink a battleship. As tradition dictates, the port and cheese is brought out at the end of the meal by which time everyone has moved from the dining room to the sitting room and where those not already in a food-induced stupor continue to eat

Emma Ward

Country Girl and drink even more merrily. The only blemish on an otherwise perfect occasion is the unfortunate colour of the carpets (a pale sandy colour). They seem to magically attract red wine and other darkhued beverages, usually in the region of one particularly clumsy member of our party who each year is guaranteed to spill something. To combat this we have taken to bulk buying bottles of 1001 stain remover, especially for shoot season; Downton this certainly isn’t, Men Behaving Badly, eat your heart out!

Swanbourne House School www.swanbourne.org

From the Horse’s Mouth

Monday, 11th February, 2013 (6.30–9pm) at Horsewyse, Long Crendon. Guest speakers include: Yogi Breisner on re-training the ex-racehorse and Sarah Wicks from Baileys on feeding issues. Neil Smith will give an interactive demonstration of equine facilitated learning with Patrick the voice-trained horse. Tickets: £25, available from Horsewyse

Tel: 01844 202966 or email: horsewyse@btconnect.com or visit our website at:

www.horsewyse.org.uk

Horsewyse CIC is a not-for-profit company providing equine facilitated learning for children and young people with learning and behavioural difficulties. 48

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

IAPS Prep & Pre-Prep Co-Ed School, ages 3-13

SCHOLARSHIPS Swanbourne House is a thriving, co-educational Prep School. Scholarships,with means tested bursaries if needed will be offered for external boys or girls who are eligible for 11+ entry in September 2013 (for children born between 01.09.01 and 31.08.02) and who show talent in any of the following areas or combination of areas: Academics, Sport, Art, DT, Music or Choral work. These scholarships are ideal for children who would wish to prepare for 13+ entry to Public School.

We warmly invite those interested to apply to the school for further details and an application form. Applications close on Wednesday 30th January 2013 Sat 2nd February 2013. Preliminary Tests Swanbourne House School Swanbourne, Nr Winslow, Bucks MK17 0HZ Tel: 01296 720264 Email: office@swanbourne.org

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

From coffee and cake to a refreshing pint, or a glass of good wine with your Sunday roast, The Village Gate has something to please all the family, even the dog...

he Village Gate pub at World’s End on the edge of Wendover has experienced many changes over it’s long history. Parts of the building date back to around the end of the 16th Century, although it was brick-cased more than a century later. More recently the now popular freehouse has enjoyed a complete redevelopment and a name change (it was previously The Marquis of Granby) courtesy of new owners Redcomb Pubs. The independent company runs a small chain of hostelries with the philosophy that pubs are about comfort, conversation, and great food and drink. The Village Gate is certainly a welcoming place now. Smart and stylish, in a traditional pub way - beams, boards and open fireplaces, a cosy lounge bar with open fire, comfortable leather armchairs and an impressive double height dining room. The gardens are lovely too and look out across open fields towards Coombe Hill. Manager John Johnston, right, a charming Yorkshireman from Pontefract, sees the Village Gate as a community pub with great food: “You are welcome to pop in for a coffee, to have a drink or to eat,” he says. “You can bring your dog and the children, we are family friendly. “We work hard to make the pub warm, welcoming, comfortable, relaxing and cosy. I come from Yorkshire where a pub is the hub of the community, people gather to drink and to be social and we have a regular crowd who come here for those reasons. We draw people from further afield for our food though. We have a new team of qualified chefs, who make and cook everything on site and you can taste the difference. We use seasonal, local produce where possible but also draw from

further afield if quality and quantity demands. Wendover: “It’s lovely to be back in the “Our new steak menu has really taken off. countryside,” he says. “I live at the pub with We have beef from the Harefield premier my dogs, a boxer and a terrier and am really range, from select farms in Lancashire and enjoying it. Cumbria. It’s hung for minimum of 28 days “I’ve been here nearly a year now and I feel and the quality is excellent. We serve it with very much part of the community. We like to a choice of five different sauces get involved with local events and five different potato dishes, we had a great pink party charity so you can have mash rather than night here for breast cancer, chips if you prefer. inspired by one of my regulars, “Locally King’s Farm shop is recently and the response was making us some great sausages so good from local people and and No2 in Wendover keeps us companies that we are already supplied with the most fabulous planning one for next year! British cheeses. We have also We have a quiz night (last introduced game from Tring Tuesday of each month - food based, Chiltern Fish and Game.” Manager John Johnston and quiz entry for £9), we’ll be The pub is open from 12noon to 11pm doing a Burns Night celebration in January, and serves a lunch menu from 12-3pm, a bar and we’re planning some gourmet and specialmenu from 12-6pm and a dinner menu from ity food nights. On Thursdays we do a special 6-10pm. Sunday lunch is available from 12senior citizens 2 course lunch for £7.95, 8pm, but it’s best to book, or phone ahead to there’s always something going on, come on check availability as it is very popular. down, we’ll make you welcome! “With the menu we try to please everyone,” l The Village Gate, 225 Aylesbury Road, says John. “There’s pizza, vegetarian and Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6BA gluten free dishes. We are quite well up on Tel: 01296 623884 the gluten free food as the owner’s wife is a Email: info@villagegatewendover.co.uk coeliac. Nearly all of our dishes are, or can be, Website: www.villagegatewendover.co.uk made wheat and gluten free (even sandwiches and pizzas)! We have gluten free pizza bases, breads and buns, chips, ice creams, puddings, crackers, sauces... just ask!” John has been in the catering industry for 21 years and has experience of hotels, pubs, restaurants and bars. He worked for Peach Pubs running The Fleece in Witney, before joining Redcomb to manage their Canteloupe bar in Shoreditch and then moving to

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre is currently thrilling young and old alike as Russell Grant and friends delight local panto fans with a lavish, hilarious and thoroughly entertaining production of Peter Pan. The New Year will soon be upon us though and what then...

s the boos, cheers and slapstick frenzy of Peter Pan fade into the never never, the Waterside stage will be rapidly transformed for a New Year of new productions set to make 2013 an annus dramaticus to remember! Drama is the word as a programme of award-winning productions kick-starts the New Year in style with the frightfully good Susan Hill novel The Woman in Black (Monday, January 21st - Saturday, January 26th), brand new play Maurice’s Jubilee (Tuesday, January 29th - Saturday, February 2nd), and current comedy favourite The 39 Steps (Monday, February 18th - Saturday, February 23rd). Adapted by Stephen Mallatratt, The Woman in Black has been unanimously acclaimed by critics for combining the power and intensity of live theatre with a cinématic quality inspired by the world of film noir. It is a formula set to provide the Vale’s audiences with an evening of unremitting drama as they

Brendan Cole: Licence To Thrill January 20th

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

The 39 Steps: February 18th-23rd are transported into a terrifying and ghostly world. Now celebrating its 23rd year in the West End, over 7 million people have lived to tell the tale of one of the most chilling and successful theatre events ever staged. The story proved so popular, it was even released as a major motion picture starring Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) earlier this year to become the highest grossing British horror film in 20 years. The story is spine-chilling; a lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of a ‘Woman in Black’, engages a sceptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. It all begins innocently enough,

but as they reach further into his darkest memories the borders between make believe and reality begin to blur and the flesh begins to creep...and be warned, everybody in the theatre can hear you scream! Julian Forsyth plays the role of ‘Arthur Kipps’ and Antony Eden plays the role of ‘The Actor’. Both Forsyth and Eden have previously performed these roles at the Fortune Theatre in the West End. New smash hit play written by Nichola McAuliffe, Maurice’s Jubilee, is coming to the Waterside following a sell-out run at the 2012 Edinburgh Festival. This is Olivier Award winning Nichola McAuliffe’s most recent play and she will reprise her role as Katie, alongside Olivier Award winning Julian Glover (Maurice) and Sheila Reid (Helena)

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with classical BRIT Award winner Jack Liebeck: February 3rd One Night in Vienna starring the Johann Strauss Dancers: January 17th

who is currently starring in Benidorm (and notably once graced the stage with Sir Laurence Olivier at the Royal National Theatre). The production offers an hilariously funny and poignant take on timeless themes including the exploration of one man’s enduring commitment to a dream and an eternal love triangle fallen on hard times. Maurice is determined to reach his 90th birthday, which is the day before the diamond jubilee. The Queen having made him a promise 60 years before, is coming to tea. His wife is convinced he’s never met the Queen, but his nurse thinks it’s time he did! With a Royal encounter, an enduring love and a bungalow in Penge all in the mix, this heartwarming new performance is being hailed a triumph, not to be missed. Direct from the West End, Broadway and 25 countries around the globe comes spy thriller, The 39 Steps, brilliantly and hilariously recreated as the smash hit Olivier Award Winning Best New Comedy. This blissfully funny show follows the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women. This wonderfully inventive and gripping comedy thriller features four fearless actors, playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fast-paced fun and thrilling action and there is a jolly good trailer at www.love39steps.com Other treats in store for early 2013 include The Johnny Cash Roadshow delivering all the hits, One Night in Vienna starring the Johann Strauss Dancers, Strictly star Brendan Cole launching his new tour Licence to Thrill, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with classical BRIT Award winner Jack Liebeck and more comedy, music and dance than you can blow a party whistle at! Let 2013 be the year of live entertainment and book your tickets now at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Box Office 0844 871 7607

New Year at The Waterside Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on... Peter Pan

December 8th-30th

The Johnny Cash Roadshow

January 5th

LiveScreen: La Boheme

January 15th

LiveScreen: The Magistrate

January 17th

One Night in Vienna

January 17th

Simon Evans

January 19th

Brendan Cole

January 20th

The Woman in Black

January 21st-26th

Maurice’s Jubilee

January 29th February 2nd

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

February 3rd

Rocky Horror Show

February 4th-9th

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

February 11th

Colin Fry

February 12th

Balletboyz

February 14th

Chris Dean’s Syd Lawrence Orchestra

February 15th

The 39 Steps

February 18th-23rd

Russian State Ballet: Coppelia & Swan Lake

February 25th-27th

(booking fee) or online by visiting: www.atgtickets. com/aylesbury (booking fee). l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

BalletBoyz: February 14th The Johnny Cash Roadshow : January 5th

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Tel: 01844 274652

Email: info@risboroughservicecentre.co.uk

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

Petrol Station

PRINCES RISBOROUGH LL

E RE ST

Risborough Train Station

ROAD OMBE WYC

A4 0 1 0

0 40

0 01 A4

AD RO

SU M M ER LE YS

AD RO

B4 44 4

LO WE R

WAY IELD

U SB LE AY

00 B4

Independent Specialists covering

Aston Martin • Jaguar • Subaru • Landrover Mercedes • BMW • V W • Audi

AD RO

2.5 miles from station

A41 29 LO NG W IC

AD RO

• Servicing & repairs all makes and models • MOT testing • • Brakes, batteries & exhausts • Specialists in 4 x 4 vehicles • • Full electronic diagnostics • Engine rebuilds & remapping • • Air conditioning (re-gas & servicing) • Tyre centre •

and all other makes

RSC 190x125 ad.indd 1

03/11/2012 09:32

DENT REMOVAL SPECIALISTS

DENT REMOVAL SPECIALISTS • High Quality Cost Effective Repairs • Free Estimates • Fully Trained Technicians • Master Craftsmen • Mobile Service & Workshop Facilities

www.exceldents.co.uk

• High Quality Cost Effective Repairs Telephone: • Free Estimates 01844 353388 • Fully Trained Technicians • Master40 Craftsmen Oakley Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX394ES • Mobile Service & Workshop Facilities (to rear of Claremont Automatics)

Email: johnnixey@btconnect.com www.exceldents.co.uk

Tel/Fax: 0800 977 5347 DENT REMOVAL SPECIALISTS Email: info@exceldents.co.uk

REMOVAL SPECIALISTS • DENT High Quality Cost Effective Repairs Unit 9Effective Weston Way Ind. Estate, Lower Road • High Quality Repairs • FreeCost Estimates Stoke Mandeville, Bucks. HP22 5XB • Free Estimates • Fully Trained Technicians • Fully Trained Technicians Taking Away Life’s Little Knocks... ® • •Master Craftsmen Master Craftsmen • Mobile Service Workshop Facilities • Mobile Service & & Workshop Facilities

www.exceldents.co.uk www.exceldents.co.uk Tel/Fax: 0800 977 5347

Tel/Fax: 0800 977 5347 Email: info@exceldents.co.uk Email: info@exceldents.co.uk Unit 9 Weston Way Ind. Estate, Lower Road

Stoke Mandeville, Bucks. HP22 5XB

Unit 9 Weston Way Ind. Estate, Lower Taking Away Life’s Little Knocks... ® Road

Stoke Mandeville, Bucks. HP22 5XB

Taking Away Life’s Little Knocks... ® 52

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Telephone: 01844 353388

Tel/Fax: 0800 977 5347 l Bosch Car Service Centre Email: info@exceldents.co.uk

l MOTs including Class VII (3.5 tonnes)

Unit 9 Weston Way Ind. Estate, Lower Road Stoke Mandeville, Bucks. HP22 5XB

l Servicing, repairs, tyres, exhausts and air conditioning

® Taking Away Knocks... forLife’s cars Little and light commercials

l Diagnostics: we have the most up to date workshops and equipment in the area l High ceilings and long ramps enable us to service long wheelbase vans, campers and trucks

l Column: On

The Road with Rob Auchterlonie There can be only one... Toyota GT86

here’s a choice of one when your thoughts turn to the Toyota GT86, the Japanese manufacturer’s first sports coupe for yonks. And to be honest, if you want a light and highly involving car that can take corners better than Robin van Persie, you don’t need much more of a choice. Toyota has something of an enviable reputation when it comes to sports cars. I remember a trip to Cyprus many years ago to sample the then new Celica, and then an equally involving visit to Portugal years later as the MR2 made its debut. GT86 was conceived from the outset to be a pure driver’s car, with low weight, a low centre of gravity and responsive, rewarding handling as design and engineering priorities. It sure looks the part. The view forward from behind the wheel is all bulgy arches and wide bon-

Rob Auchterlonie

ON The Road net and through the mirrors it’s sculpted flared arches and a realisation you’re closer to the road surface than most. The 2+2 coupe has a frontmounted, free-revving 2.0-litre ‘boxer’ engine driving the rear wheels. And Toyota purposely specified standard tyres – the same as those used on Prius – rather than performance rubber, ensuring drivers can fully exploit the GT86’s handling potential. And great performance doesn’t come with a prohibitive price tag: the

‘The GT6 is a pure driver’s car

‘range’ starts at £24,995 for the manual, the automatic at £26,495, with just one equipment grade. With a front-mounted engine and rear wheel drive, the light, low and nimble GT86 has that classic sports car set-up. The 2+2 (the +2 actually being space for creatures god hasn’t created yet) kind of highlights the fact the cockpit is designed around the driver - you really wouldn’t want to be sitting behind him or her. There are su-

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

perbly comfortable and supportive sports seats, with contrasting red stitching around the black leather trimmed steering wheel, gear knob and parking brake. There’s very little body roll to report and very quick steering gives the GT86 that well balanced ‘cornering on rails’ feel - driving with the window down you can hear the rear tyres doing all the work and searching for grip as the Toyota pulls out of a slow corner. The Subaru-developed flat four Boxer engine, with its distinctive note under load, helps here by giving the car a lower centre of gravity than rivals. There’s little doubt the GT86 is enormous fun to drive, probably more so in the manual rather than the auto version we sampled, serving up your full daily quota of thrills. If you were brought up on oversteering cars, this could be the nostalgia trip you were waiting for. At a glance: Toyota GT86. £26,495. Top speed 130mph, 0-62 8.4 secs Fuel: urban 29.4, extra urban 49.6, combined 39.8 Five year/100,000 mile warranty l Follow Rob Auchterlonie Twitter: @robauchy

Tel: 01296 658257

Fri & t s Fa Yo Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Independent servicing, repair & Car Performance performance tuning specialists

Spe

repairs l Any Servicing make and and model of car welcome 4 wheel laser alignment l Highly trained & experienced mechanics

Engine diagnost Diesel tuning an (ex-motorsport team, international race andTyre's, Brakes, C MOTs arranged rally championship experience) Courtesy car av Fast & Friendly Service l Fully equipped workshop Full workshop facilities 24 Hour recover l Comfortable waiting room l Reasonable rates

Auto Torque, Unit 9, UBF Industrial Park, Bicester Road, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JX Tel: 01296 658257 Web: www.autotorque.net Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

Men’s barbers, 245 Main Road, Walter’s Ash, Bucks, HP14 4HT Men’s hair: £10.50 Wash & Cut: £14 Boy’s hair: £8.50 Crew cut: £6.50 Senior Citizen: £6.50 Under 5s: £6.50 Saturdays: all cuts £12

3B Hire & Servicing, Townsend Garage, Thame Road, Haddenham, Bucks HP17 8BY Tel: 01844 291430

Tel: 07742 361711

Open Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9.30am to 5pm Sat: 7.30am to 4pm, Thur: closed

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

w Painting w Decorating w Carpentry

Phill Pearce

Established in Thame for 18 years Tel: 01844 218091 Mobile: 07816 264231 26 Hamilton Road, Thame, Oxon, OX9 3XZ

Les Liney

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 Haddenham Road Kingsey, HP17 8LS

OILSERV Oil Boiler Servicing and Repairs at a reasonable price.

Service £75

Contact Ian on:

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

w car, van, mpv & minibus hire w vehicle servicing - all makes & models w car valeting w tyres, exhausts, batteries

www.3bhire.co.uk

Chiltern Cats Protection We always have lots of gorgeous cats and sometimes kittens, in need of loving homes

Free Neutering Vouchers available for eligible households* (*households on a low income, senior citizens, students & those in receipt of income-related benefits)

We are also in urgent need of volunteer fosterers and fundraisers

0845 260 2396

enquiries@chilterncats.org.uk

CPChiltern

ChilternCats

Reg Charity number 203644 & SC 037711

www.chiltern.cats.org.uk

Andrews of Thame

Vehicle Hire

Tel: 01844 292783 Mobile: 07860 795236

Minibus & people carrier hirehire

Contact Ian on: 01844 281256 07745 405453 Email: ianoilserv@aol.com

Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance Domestic & Commercial Call now for free estimates

Tel: 01844 260337 Mobile: 07590 573419

Lazertech Sound & Light ticed? Do you need tognge, taffonordable

The Mobile Disco Company

‘Because not everyone has

Stunning desi nt customer prices and excelle with us… service. Stick

spread the word…

your good taste in music’ Tel: 07990 845851 / 07516 469816 Email: lazertech-disco@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.lazertech-disco.co.uk

01296 423769

julie@jamtasticdesign.co.uk

07831 206404

Sarsville, Lower Icknield Way, Chinnor, Oxon, OX39 4EA

Telephone:

01296 320817

43b Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2NQ Tel: 01296 423233 / 0800 298 8514

‘A Dedicated Service Tailored To Your Needs’ We can accommodate from 1 parcel up to 24 pallets

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

24 Hour Same Day & Overnight Service

Services: Innovative, contemporary and traditional designs Maintenance Contracts

Small Vans, Sprinters, 7.5T and Artics all available! Warehousing and Storage also available LTC Transport Services Ltd, HP19 8DJ

Inspection and Testing PAT Testing Reg No. 35687955

Emergency Call Out Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting New Installations Solar PV Installations

Services: Services:

Maintenance Maintenance Contracts Contracts

Inspection Inspection and and Testing Testing Energy Saving Solutions PAT PAT Testing Testing Reg No. 503140000 Rewiring, Alterations & Additions Emergency Emergency Call Call Out Out Lighting Controls Fire Fire Alarm Alarm and and Emergency Emergency Lighting Lighting Home Automation New New Installations Installations safe electrical services for home/business Solar Solarefficient PV PV Installations Installations

Reg Reg No. No. 35687955 35687955

Services:

Energy Saving Saving Solutions Solutions Maintenance ContractsEnergy

Reg Reg No. No. 503140000 503140000

Rewiring, Alterations Alterations && Additions Additions Inspection and Testing Rewiring, PAT Testing

Lighting Lighting Controls Controls

Emergency Call Out

Home Home Automation Automation

Fire Alarm and Emergency Lighting New Installations

T / F: +44(0) 845 676 9218 Solar PV Installations

A: Unit 5 Sandpit Hill Cottages Cholesbury Lane, Cholesbury

M: +44(0) 776 777 7868Energy Saving Solutions Rewiring, Alterations & Additions

W: www.aoelectrical.co.uk Lighting Controls

E: info@aoelectrical.co.uk Home Automation

Reg No. 35687955

safe safe efficient efficient electrical electrical services services for for home/business home/business

Reg No. 503140000

Hertfordshire HP23 6NF

safe efficient electrical services for home/business

Vale Life : Dec 2012 / Jan 2013