Absolutely Sussex December 2022

* Piper-Heidsieck Chief winemaker was acknowledged as best of the year nine times since 2000 by the IWC.

PIPER-HEIDSIECK PAVES A NEW WAY IN CHAMPAGNE BY ACHIEVING THE B CORP SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION.

EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM

PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE

GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT DARREN TINDAL

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

LETTER Editor’s

THE EDITOR’S December issue highlights

Iam writing this letter on the day that England started their World Cup campaign in Qatar. It's also probably the first time that I have been very indifferent to the tournament too, which growing up football mad I could never have envisaged.

There are a host of reasons for this indifference. The fact it is in Qatar is a real issue for me, particularly after watching Netflix's excellent Fifa: Uncovered documentary that detailed years and years of corruption at football's highest level. Being a chairman of an amateur football club, the way these men took advantage of their power for their own gain, rather than football's, left a really bad taste in the mouth.

Then there is the questionable human rights issues that all and sundry have been pushing, bar of course Fifa who would rather everyone just swept that under the carpet and concentrated solely on football. No chance.

And the fact it's being held in the run up to Christmas is also a negative, particularly with everything going on in Sussex this month. Ditch the football, I say, and concentrate on supporting local businesses and community events. It's all been a reminder to me about what's really important in life.

1MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Interiors Trend

The best in ceramics for your Christmas table (p87)

Jay Blades

Making and do and mending this Christmas in Chichester (p14)

Festive Agenda Absolutely Sussex's pick of the best events in December (p12)

The Shoot Somerset by Alice Temperley in Sussex (p64)

COMPILED BY PENDLE HARTE

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The Barbour Lorelie seersucker dress features all-over checks for a stylish approach to casual dressing. Detailed with volume sleeves and a tiered gathered panel at the hem, it's an easy go-to garment to match with boots. barbour.com

BRANCH OUT

Donna Wilson has taken a new

directon with her art: Abstract Assembly is a collection of sculptures in wood and glass. scp.co.uk

END OF

New to the Conran Shop are these stylish and tactile Fleck bookends, £49, in ochre and white, or white and blue. conranshop.co.uk

BROWN SUGAR

Brodie loves a cashmere piece with a sporty twist. The Love 2.0 jumper is a cosy classic with a contemporary feel. £225 brodiecashmere.com

10 things we Absolutely love

EDITOR’S PICK

RED ALERT

We believe that Madeleine Thompson's cashmere is the so est and most stylish out there. This red cardigan is a winter essential. madeleine-thompson.com

PRETTY CLAY

House of Hackney's bold prints adorn a new range of ceramics at Anthropologie and we love this deceptively simple vase. £42 anthropologie.com

BRIGHT

EYES

New makeup from Paul and Joe features a graphic eye in limoncello yellow, pistachio green, marshmallow pink, coral orange or hot pink. paulandjoe.com

ZERO CARBON

Sheep Inc's ultra-fi ne, temperatureregulating, Merino wool beanies use yarn sourced from regenerative New Zealand farms and knitted using solarpowered, zero-waste machines. £50 sheepinc.com

A NEW LEAF

Flowerbx's autumn wreath is made up of exquisite fresh preserved oak leaves in a blend of vibrant red and earthy burgundy tones. £115 fl owerbx.com

POSTER BOYS AND GIRLS

PULLMAN EDITIONS

Pullman Editions designs striking original limited-edition posters that capture the enduring appeal of Art Deco. Their posters feature winter sports, glamorous resorts around the world, and historic automobiles, with over 100 designs available.

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THE BEST EVENTS IN SUSSEX

Christmas Carol - The Concert

9 DECEMBER, WORTHING ASSEMBLY HALLS

Charles Dickens' beloved tale as you’ve never seen or heard it before. Enjoy the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge through glorious, memorable, and irresistible songs, in this instant holiday classic. This year sees the premiere tour of A Christmas Carol the Concert, hosted by the University of Chichester Conservatoire and Great Immediately Productions.

chi.ac.uk

EVENT

The Agenda World Cup Final

18 December

THE ARCH, BRIGHTON Sporting events company, 4TheFans, has announced its World Cup 2022 Fan Park will take place at The Arch in Brighton. Hundreds of England fans will come together to roar on the nation in Qatar with games on huge anti-glare screens with a world-class soundsystem, to deliver a genuine big game atmosphere - and ever the optimists, we are hoping 18 December will be one to remember as the final is staged. 4thefans.tv

6 December

CONGRESS THEATRE, EASTBOURNE

BBC Radio4’s multi award-winning antidote to panel games returns to the stage, so join host Jack Dee plus Marcus Brigstocke, Tony Hawks, Pippa Evans and Rory Bremner for an unmissable evening of inspired nonsense. The cast bring their lightning wit to this most iconic of British entertainment programmes. Note this production is the theatre tour. eastbournetheatres.co.uk

ART

AYO AKINGBADE

Until 22 January, 2023

TOWNER EASTBOURNE

Ayo Akingbade is an artist, writer and director who works predominantly with moving image, addressing notions of power, urbanism and stance. Interested in the fluid boundaries between the self and the other, she gathers local and cultural experiences in intimate and playful interpretations. townereastbourne.org.uk

PENNY MCCARTHY

This Month’s Must See C

UNTIL 12 MARCH, 2023 HASTINGS CONTEMPORARY

loud falls in love with mortal is a solo exhibition by Penny McCarthy and comprises an extensive series of graphite drawings made between 2019 and 2022. The catalyst for these drawings was a newspaper image from 2016 of a Fata Morgana mirage in the sky above Hastings that looked like a portal to another world. Each drawing in the series is associatively linked to the enigmatic Fata Morgana mirage. hastingscontemporary.org

MUSIC

The 1975

8 January

BRIGHTON CENTRE

In support of their new album, ‘Being Funny In A Foreign Language’, The 1975 have announced details of the UK & Ireland leg of their ‘At Their Very Best’ tour. The 1975 made their long awaited live comeback in August, headlining Japan’s biggest rock festival Summer Sonic 2022, before returning for two triumphant homecoming headline slots at Reading and Leeds Festival. Formed in Manchester in 2002, The 1975 have established themselves as one of the defining bands of their generation with their distinctive aesthetic, ardent fanbase and unique sonic approach. brightoncentre.co.uk

Family FESTIVE FUN

CINDERELLA

8-31 December

THE CAPITOL HORSHAM

Head to The Capitol Theatre for the Fairy Godmother of pantomime. Directed by Julie Atherton, Cinderella boasts a brand new set, spectacular sequences and a few new twists. This year’s traditional pantomime will sweep you o your feet and carry you to the ball. The cast includes Siobhan Athwal as Cinderella and Jonathan Carlton as Prince Charming. thecapitolhorsham.com

MRS SCROOGE

22-24 December

THE HAWTH STUDIO

CRAWLEY

Mrs Scrooge is miserable and it’s up to the children to try and cheer her up! Guided by a Rock Star Tree, a helpful Mouse and a very noisy Dustbin Lady, the children must help bring a smile to Mrs Scrooge’s face. With singing and a chance to make drawings that magically appear on stage, this is a chance to discover what it means to make an act of kindness. parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

ALADDIN

22-27 December

BRIGHTON CENTRE

Brighton production company E3 is bringing family panto back to its home city with a stunning new production of Aladdin. The Christmas panto favourite incorporates plenty of spectacular elements including jawdropping sets, dazzling costumes and magical special e ects, and features a hugely talented West End cast including Anita Dobson. brightoncentre.co.uk

Three of the best pantos running across the Christmas season

ANITA DOBSON IN ALADDIN

RAGS TO RICHES

By REBECCA PITCAIRN

hat do you look forward to watching on TV during the festive season? For me it’s the Christmas specials of shows that really pull on the heartstrings, such as The Repair Shop, which returns after the success of its 10th series with a one-o special this December.

The show, which is filmed in and around a barn at The Weald and Downland Living Museum in Singleton, near Chichester, has become one of the BBC’s most successful programmes since it first aired in 2017.

Now watched by over seven million people per episode, The Repair Shop sees members of the public bring in their broken heirlooms to be repaired by a team of 11 experts that includes clock expert Steve Fletcher, antique furniture restorer Will Kirk, ceramics conservator Kirsten Ramsay and, of course, furniture restorer and frontman, Jay Blades.

But as well as members of the general public, Jay and the team occasionally welcome VIPs and celebrities to their

WSouth Downs-based workshop. On the most recent series, Dame Judi Dench brought in a broken watch belonging to her late husband, Michael Williams, and His Royal Highness King Charles III also appeared on the show for a one-o special to celebrate the BBC’s centenary.

“When you get famous people like that come in and are just in awe of the show, it’s a real nice thing,” says Jay as we sit down to chat during a quick break in his very hectic filming schedule. At the time of our interview, the King’s appearance, which was filmed before he ascended to the throne, had not yet been publicised so Jay remained tight lipped about what went on during the visit. However, viewers of the special episode, which aired in October, will have seen the pair get on famously as King Charles presented two items for restoration: an 8th-century bracket clock and a 19th-century ceramic vase made for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.

Despite his brush with royalty, 52-yearold Jay admits it’s the ‘ordinary folk’ who venture into The Weald and Downland Living Museum’s Court Barn – the main

setting for The Repair Shop – that make it the success it is. “The guests are all so unique, there’s not one story that’s exactly the same as another one so I love that people all over the country give us their items and trust us with the things they’ve got – it’s really special,” says Jay who last year also set up a workshop in Yorkshire in a bid to balance the north/south divide when it comes to representation on TV.

“I wanted to celebrate the uncelebrated,” he tells me. “There are places in the UK that we don’t celebrate enough and it’s important to hear a di erent type of voice. What tends to happen is we focus a lot on the south and there is some real talent and some real community in the north.”

While The Repair Shop, which has propelled Jay into the spotlight since the series began filming six years ago, sees members of the public bring in items for restoration, his Yorkshire workshop sees deserving local heroes nominated to receive a bespoke, handmade piece of furniture in recognition of the work they do for their community.

“It’s a really beautiful show,” Jay continues. “There are some brilliant characters and the

The Repair Shop frontman Jay Blades MBE talks famous guests, the north/south divide and why we should all be attempting more DIY this Christmas

“I want to celebrate the uncelebrated”

things that they have done for the community have gone way above and beyond.”

Working with local communities and encouraging the people within them to grow is in Jay’s blood. Prior to working in TV, he co-founded charities Street Dreams and Out of the Dark, which helped give disengaged and disadvantaged young people practical skills.

“With [community work] you’re always trying to inspire people to do something di erent, to better their horizons,” says Jay, who was awarded an MBE for his services to craft in May this year. “And that’s what I want to do when I’m on TV, I want to make a change with the influence I’ve got. There are people out there that are su ering, some in silence, and I want to show them that they can do it.”

Jay himself is no stranger to adversity. He has spoken openly about his struggles with mental health and dyslexia, which went undiagnosed as a child meaning he didn’t learn to properly read or write until just last year – a challenge he documented for the BBC documentary, Learning to Read at 51

Last year, with the help of a ghost writer, Jay wrote a memoir, Making It: How Love, Kindness and Community Helped Me Repair My Life, and he has recently

published a home improvement book, DIY with Jay, which he says, makes a great Christmas gift for anyone keen to brushup on their handiwork around the home.

“I want people to understand that fixing stu is quite simple and everybody starts somewhere,” Jay says. “All of the experts that you see at The Repair Shop were all beginners at some point. No one is born an expert and everyone will have had a DIY disaster somewhere down the line. Some of my first attempts were rubbish! But once you achieve something, something as simple as putting up a shelf or even a picture frame and it isn’t wonky, you can walk past it and feel happy.”

And with the cost of living rising, the ‘make do and mend’ approach is something that, according to Jay, we should all be taking on wholeheartedly. “We’re going to need to watch the pennies and that means doing it yourself,” he adds. “There’s been that make do and mend culture in the past and all I’m doing with this book is giving you an advantage so you can give it a go yourself and save yourself a couple of quid.”

DIY with Jay: How to Repair and Refresh Your Home is out now, published by Bluebird, RRP £20. All episodes of The Repair Shop are available to stream on BBC iPlayer

The Court Barn, the setting for The Repair Shop, gets particularly freezing during the winter. “We each have two water bottles up our jumpers during filming,” Jay admits.

Despite its TV fame, The Court Barn is not The Weald and Downland Living Museum’s most popular building. Bayleaf, a timber-framed Wealden hall house with a first-floor privy jutting out of the side, is considered the museum’s most iconic.

“I’ve always thought it is so strange, that people used to go to the toilet and it would drop down into their garden!” says Jay.

While Mary Berry has never appeared on The Repair Shop, Jay says she is a huge fan of the show: “When I filmed with her for Mary Berry Save Christmas, she told me she sits down every Wednesday to watch it and if she’s o filming, her husband doesn’t watch it until she gets home so they can watch it together.”

THE WEALD AND DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM

A RECENT ROYAL GUEST ON THE REPAIR SHOP

MARY BERRY IS A FAN OF THE REPAIR SHOP

Interview with…

KAREN SWAN

SUSSEX AUTHOR OF THE CHRISTMAS POSTCARDS

By DENISE TYLER

Q You’re known as the Queen of Destination Fiction and your books have featured Rome, Paris, Greece, Spain, Norway to name a few – and now the Himalayas in The Christmas Postcards. Do the destinations inspire the stories or the other way round?

A Generally I think of the story and then I will research places. I want my characters to be embedded in the places I’m setting the books in so I want to know how it feels to be a local there, not a tourist. Every time I go somewhere, I'm looking around thinking, what's it like to live in that house? Or to be that person living in there? That’s what’s underneath everything, underneath every location, underneath every character.

Q In The Christmas Postcards, Natasha’s desperate social media search for her devastated daughter’s lost toy triggers a life-changing mystery with scandalous revelations. What inspired that idea?

A I had seen a TikTok about a little girl who had left her teddy at a tourist attraction in Iceland somewhere. There was an online appeal and a tour guide took the teddy, drove with it across Iceland with all his tourists, met someone at the airport who then flew over with it. And then the dad of this little girl met them at the airport. You know, parents will go to extraordinary lengths. Each of my children have had a toy that had this tyrannical hold over the family. If it got lost, the child was not going to sleep that night. So by the time my daughter was born, as soon as it became apparent which was THE toy, I got triples!

PHOTO: ALICIA CLARKE

Q You moved from London to rural Sussex. That’s quite a change...

A I happened to come down to see a friend and I got horribly lost. I ended up driving through Lindfield, which of course has to be one of the prettiest villages in all Sussex: Georgian townhouses, a duck pond, the village green. I mentioned it to my mother; she's Irish and had moved over from Ireland to Hove when she was 16 to train as a nurse. Sussex had been her first English home and she loved it. That immediately gave me the sense of having roots there. We’re right in the Ashdown Forest and it’s actually the best of both worlds because we’ve got the forest at the front of the house and farmland behind us so we get to enjoy the sheep grazing, but we can walk out the front of the house with the dogs straight on to common land and it’s just glorious.

Q You’ve raised three children in Sussex; where were your favourite family haunts and have they changed as the children have grown?

A My daughter still loves Tulleys [Farm] for Halloween and we all loved Heaven Farm in Danehill for the bluebells when they were little. We would go to what we and our friends called the smelly donkey service at Hadlow Down on Christmas Eve, where they would bring a live donkey into the church and the youngest born baby of the parish would be carried in as baby Jesus; it was just idyllic. We always get our Christmas trees at Goddenwick where you can choose and cut your own and we always like going to Wakehurst Place, especially at this time of year when the leaves are changing. But for us, walking in the forest was very much our family thing.

Q Where are your favourite places to eat as a family in Sussex?

A Our local pub is very much The Gri n [Fletching]. My teenage boys can be found propping up the bar when they’re home and of course the garden is beautiful though I like being inside near the fire. I like it because it’s a really honest pub; it’s not tarted up. I also like the Red Lion at Chelwood Gate; they do an excellent Sunday lunch. The Coach and Horses, also in Chelwood Gate, is another lovely local pub with a lovely garden, great for a good meal with friends. We don’t tend to go to restaurants too much, but we’ve been to Gravetye Manor a few times.

Q In The Christmas Postcards, Natasha loses herself in painting to switch o from her troubles; what’s your favourite way to switch o from writing?

A I’m definitely a dog walker and I love to walk in the woods. I’ve heard the Japanese term ‘forest bathing’ and that’s literally what I do. If I’m stressed, if I’m angry or upset I walk the dogs and when I come back I’m no longer any of those things. I also do a lot of sewing and I find I can totally lose all track of time when I’m doing that; it just disengages my brain. There’s always a buzz when I’m writing – what do I need to do in that scene, what about that character – but sewing is a great way to make that stop.

I’m self-taught so the potential for getting it wrong is always really high; I have to be absolutely sure I’m doing it right!

Instagram: @swannywrites

Twitter: @KarenSwan1

“Each of my children have had a toy that had this tyrannical hold over us”

THE BEAUTY OF ASHDOWN FOREST

SHE HEADS TO GODDENWICK FOR HER CHRISTMAS TREE

SUNDAY LUNCH AT THE RED LION

GLOW WILD AT WAKEHURST

it usually attracts a very good field of runners. There have been some thrilling editions of the race recently and we hope this year will be no di erent.”

A WINTER

TREAT

The Sussex National at Plumpton Racecourse has been a local tradition for our county’s residents since 2001 and another spectacular event is expected this year.

Located in picturesque East Sussex countryside at the foot of the South Downs, Plumpton hosts 17 jump meetings a season and the annual Sussex National Raceday – taking place this year on Bank Holiday Monday 2 January – is the winter highlight at the racecourse.

With live music, delicious food and drink, a brilliant bank holiday atmosphere and seven exciting jump races, the Sussex National attracts racegoers in their droves from all corners of Sussex.

“The Sussex National is a cracking race and has been a key part of our racing calendar for over 20 years,” says Plumpton Racecourse Chief Executive, Dan Thompson. “It gives people something to look forward to after Christmas and there is always a brilliant buzz.

“It is a race targeted by many local trainers and owners,” he continues, “and

The Sussex National is the ultimate test of stamina and jumping for thoroughbred horses, who are tasked with clearing 20 obstacles over three-and-a-half miles. Last year the contest was won impressively by Go Whatever for leading Plumpton jockey Tom Cannon and trainer Chris Gordon, who both won the Sussex National for the first time.

After the race, Chris – who grew up nearby to Plumpton – said: “It means a lot to win this. Especially as it's my old local track –I'm a Sussex boy so this is just fantastic.”

The Sussex National wraps up a busy festive period at Plumpton, with two other meetings taking place in the build up to Christmas Day, namely the Christmas Raceday on 12 December and the Festive Run Raceday on 20 December. The racecourse o er a special Christmas treat for these fixtures, with the first 250 people through the gates getting a free glass of mulled wine, a mince pie and a Santa hat.

“Our fixtures close to Christmas are always popular as there’s a fantastic atmosphere in the stands with everybody in good spirits,” says Dan Thompson. “A day at the races is a great way to celebrate Christmas, whether that be with friends, colleagues or family. The live music is always good fun in our main racecourse bar, while there’s also hospitality options available for anyone wanting to celebrate in style.

“It’s also brilliant that the Festive Fun Raceday and Sussex National Raceday both fall within the school holidays,” he adds with a smile, “giving families the option of an a ordable day out, with accompanied under 18s gaining free access to all of Plumpton’s meetings.”

PLUMPTON RACECOURSE

Adult tickets start at just £14 for the two December meetings and £17 for the Sussex National Raceday. To get your ticket or find out more information, visit plumptonracecourse.co.uk

Why The Sussex National is a must-visit over the Christmas season

Once upon A TIME...

From 26 November until 2 January there will be a magical Nutcracker Christmas Trail throughout Chichester. Guarding the city of Chichester throughout the festive period will be 11 magnificent Nutcracker Kings. Discover all their names and be entered into a draw for the chance to win a Nintendo Switch and game, sponsored by Blue Spire Accountants, or one of two £50 Chichester Gift Cards. The trail can be completed via the LoyalFree App (free to download) or a trail leaflet can be collected from participating businesses or downloaded from the Chichester BID website. Then, on 10 December from 11am–4pm, families are invited to take part in a Nutcracker Experience Day. Pick-up a special passport and go on a free Nutcracker adventure across the city enjoying a variety of free Christmas themed activities including storytelling at The Library on Tower Street, Nutcracker dance workshops at Wagtail Co ee & Yoga on Eastgate Square, facepainting and Santa letter-writing at

The Cathedral, and Christmas decoration making at Draper's Yard. Collect passport stamps as you go before heading to the V2 van on East Street to receive a surprise gift.Visitors can also enjoy mesmerising Nutcracker themed street entertainment throughout the day as well as capturing Christmas memories at the giant snow globe on North Street (open 11am-4pm).

The festivities don’t stop there.On Saturday 17 December, Chichester will host a full line-up of music and entertainment including performances from Chichester City Band and dance and drama group Stagecoach Chichester. For the Christmas shoppers, two Twilight Shopping evenings are planned to take place from 4pm–7pm on Thursday 15 and 22 December. With the Christmas Market and many high street and independent retailers opening later, visitors can also enjoy a variety of festive entertainment whilst browsing for treats and gifts.

Chichester will be looking spectacular this year with a beautiful array of brand-new Christmas lights adorning the main shopping streets and picturesque side streets. Also new for this year, there will be a special character light trail featuring Santa and five of his friends, who have all been named by local school children and V2 Radio Listeners.

Adding to the magic, over 35 businesses will be part of the city’s annual Christmas Window Competition. Best-selling author and Chichester local, Kate Mosse MBE, will be judging the displays and the public can cast their own vote via the LoyalFree App in the People’s Choice Award.

To find out more visit chichesterbid.co.uk/christmas

The enchanting story of The Nutcracker will come to life in the cathedral city of Chichester this Christmas

“Chichester will be looking spectacular this year”

Limited to editions of 280, our newly-commissioned Art Deco posters feature glamorous holiday destinations around the world, ski resorts in the European Alps, and the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Over 100 designs to choose from, all printed on 100% cotton fine art paper, measuring 97 x 65 cms. Priced at £420 each (inc. UK sales tax). Private commissions are also welcome.

@pullmaneditionsposters

All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions 2022

Pullman Editions 94 Pimlico Road Chelsea London SW1W 8PL +44 (0)20 7730 0547 info@pullmaneditions.com

Our central London gallery

SPECIAL Christmas GIFT Wrapped

Still seeking some inspiration when it comes to buying for a friend or loved one this Christmas? Inside we round up some top picks for all, plus head to Wakefields Jewellers for a little extra inspiration.

RING IN the SEASON

Christmas is upon us, but fear not: Melanie Wakefield, managing director at luxury jewellers Wakefields, has some gift inspiration

By NATALIE LI

Selecting a special piece of jewellery for your beloved is, for many, like entering into uncharted territory. You’d like to surprise someone, but rather than witnessing their crestfallen expression, you want their face to light up in sheer joy. So, what do you need to achieve this? First things first, get inspiration from their existing jewellery collection, advises Melanie Wakefield, managing director of Wakefields Jewellers, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the jewellery industry.

“Look at what your loved one already wears,” she says. “Getting a hint from someone, or subtly showing them some ideas, will help you to choose your piece whether it’s a bracelet, earrings, or a watch.

“For example, we have a range of unusual cu inks made in gold vermeil, silver and rose gold. The best way to choose for your partner or husband is by looking at their watch or wedding ring and try to go down the same road by matching with what they have.”

For those seeking a slice of a ordable luxury, Melanie suggests pieces by Shaun Leane, a jewellery designer who is best known for his sculptural pieces created for fashion icon Alexander McQueen, and one of the judges on BBC’s All That Glitters: Britain’s Next Jewellery Star

“We are stocking Shaun Leane’s silver Blackthorn collection, which starts at £100 and it’s just beautiful, edgy, and unusual – plenty to inspire those seeking a perfect Christmas gift. Those looking for other a ordable options can look to our diamond alphabet collection on pendants, which are under £300 – an elegant gift for this season,” continues Melanie, who is a qualified gemologist.

“We want our jewellery to be beautiful, kept forever and treasured, but it doesn’t have to cost the earth. We love to o er a ordable luxury and we have a range of metals from silver,

gold, rose gold, gold vermeil and yellow gold so the possibilities are endless.

“Enthusiasm for layered chains and bracelets is yet to cease and tiny hoop earrings are still hugely popular. We specialise in an ear wardrobe so there’s plenty of choice,” Melanie adds.

For those swept away by the romanticism of Christmas and seeking a dazzling ring before they pop the immortal question needn’t fret. There’s still time to sum up the depth of your a ection and present a piece of jewellery to your loved one during the festive season.

“Christmas is big for proposals so it’s a super busy time for us,” reveals Melanie.

“There is a real romance and nostalgia around it. Creating a bespoke engagement ring can typically take, from the date of order to the ring being finished,around six weeks,” Melanie adds. “But if you want to buy something immediately, we have the largest stock of diamond rings in the south-east.

If someone sees something they like, it’s easy to pick up and it’s ready to be worn –sizing is easy to amend in our workshop.

“Lab grown diamonds is another option –it’s a ordable and we have a new collection called ‘Created’ by Brown & Newirth which features rings, pendants, and earrings. It’s very new to us, but we felt it was necessary to o er more options to our clients.

“Finally,” ends Melanie, “it’s important with any jewellery purchase to make sure it can be returned if it’s not right. A risk-free option is always reassuring. At Wakefields we always give our customers that option.”

“We want our jewellery to be beautiful, but it doesn't have to cost the earth”

INSIDE WAKEFIELDS JEWELLERS

PHOTO: TOBY P

PHOTO: TOBY P

If you’re looking for that unique birthday gift, a wedding present, for that special occasion, or for yourself - then look no further.

I’m usually known as an Aviation artist but I’m regularly asked, “Do you do paintings without aircraft?”

My answer is that I just need a good reference and I can then portray most subjects! This year alone, I’ve created portraits, pet portraits, steam locomotives, and even JFK’s motor torpedo boat!

Every project is di erent and bespoke to you. Prices depend on complexity, medium and size. You’ll nd reasonable rates, a friendly service, easy brief-to-painting (or drawing), unique results and great reviews. Looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Graham Henderson, GAvA*

Everything YOUR HEART DESIRES

Head to Carnaby for the ultimate Christmas shopping and dining experience

This festive season head down to Carnaby for the ultimate Christmas shopping and dining experience in the heart of the West End. This central London destination has an incredible atmosphere that boasts a diverse and eclectic collection of retailers, bars, pubs, and restaurants, all within walking distance of Oxford Circus and Piccadilly tube stations. Carnaby has over 100 retailers and more than 60 restaurants which spans across 30 global cuisines. The iconic London destination is made up of 14 streets which includes famed foodie courtyard Kingly Court and creative hub, the Newburgh Quarter. This Christmas, Carnaby has something for everyone, with brand new openings from Stine Goya, RIXO, Ksubi, and Dickies. Take a visit to premium French fashion brand IKKS Paris, Amsterdam based brand Scotch & Soda and Danish brands Han Kjøbenhavn and GANNI for some Scandi style. Discover Rolling Stones lifestyle brand RS No. 9 Carnaby, for authentic British brands visit Aubin and RÆBURN. Stop by Bloobloom for a beautiful range of spectacles and sunglasses, head to lounge and underwear brand Gilly Hicks or discover NICCE for those perfect stocking fillers.

Visit the Newburgh Quarter, which is located just o Carnaby Street, the best place to find gifts from independent and one-o concepts. Find independent stores such as Annie’s Ibiza, iconic rock and roll jewellers The Great Frog, bespoke tailors Mark Powell and highly respected piercers Metal Morphosis.

Shopping for beauty lovers? Carnaby’s beauty o erings include; M.A.C, Too Faced, Benefit, KLORIS, Pixi and laser facial specialists Skin Laundry.

Whilst you’re busy shopping for the festive period don’t forget to fuel up at some of the most diverse and exciting eateries in London. Dine in renowned names such as Kanada-Ya, Polpo, Dishoom, Kolamba, Jinjuu and Zahter Uncover Kingly Court, the three-floor foodie hub, nestled in the heart of Carnaby. The courtyard o ers 25 concept dining experiences. In Kingly Court discover Marsha, a zero waste chicken concept, or head along to Imad's Syrian Kitchen for an authentic Syrian dining experience. This year Carnaby Celebrates features a medley of iconic lights from the past 25 years with themes including an underwater seascape, colourful rainbows, oversized fairy lights, giant snowmen, 60s inflatables, a kaleidoscope of butterflies and collaborations with two of the world's most famous bands; the Rolling Stones and Queen. It’s not to be missed. The installation illuminates Carnaby Street, Foubert’s Place, Ganton Street

and Newburgh Street. The iconic Carnaby arches are adorned with silver shimmer discs embellished with carnival decorations and a dazzling globe has been brought back to celebrate ‘Carnaby Welcomes The World’. Whilst you're in the area why not visit the Choose Love pop up? Located at 15-17 Foubert’s Place, Choose Love will be selling a collection of limited edition products, along with refugee gifting packages plus a constant stream of celebrity guests popping in to serve customers.

See more at carnaby.co.uk Follow @CarnabyLondon for updates

BEIJA

RACHEL JACKSON

Birthstone Huggie Hoop Earrings in Ruby, £70 racheljacksonlondon.com

CHLOBO

ROCK ON RUBY

All she wants for Christmas

By PENDLE HARTE

HERMÉS

ASTLEY CLARKE

Circulus Mother of Pearl Ring, £150 astleyclarke.com

KATE SPADE

Bookshelf stainless steel coffee mug, £28 katespade.co.uk

LIBERTY Liberty Accessories Crackers, £60 libertylondon.com

HENRY DANIEL

Anna Camera Bag, £365 henrydanielroma.com

STONE & MASON

Scarlet Lips Huggy

Charm & Hoop, £70 stone-and-mason.com

JAEGER-LECOULTRE

Rendez-Vous Night & Day watch, £POA jaeger-lecoultre.com

Personalised

Card

LOEV JEWELRY

Toi et Moi Checkerboard Brilliant Bangle, £8,816 loevjewelry.com

SIF JAKOBS

Necklace Roccanova Grande with Green Zirconia, £139 si akobs.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

PANTHERELLA

Tabitha Cashmere Socks in Sky Blue, £34.50 pantherella.com

KATE SPADE

Sam icon candy gem embellished satin small tote, £395 katespade.co.uk

AMELIES FOLLIES

Aubade Histoire

D’Unsoir nightie, £179 ameliesfollies.co.uk

RADLEY Christmas dog socks, £12 radley.co.uk

ELOISE JEPHSON

Silk satin sleep set,£250 eloisejephson.com

OLIVER BONAS

Quentin alphabet initial mini travel jewellery box, £14.50 oliverbonas.com

Bennet Faux Fur Slipper, £36.95 justfab.co.uk

SBRI

Leather

+ Coin Purses, £25 sbri.co.uk

THE TRIPLE-FOUR LIMITED-EDITION RACING CHRONOGRAPH

“All British land speed world record cars link back to Brooklands, and this luxury watch pays homage to that legacy with precision timing and exquisite design.” - Land Speed World Record Holder Andy Green OBE.

Brooklands designed and operated the World’s first motor race chronograph accurate to 1000th of a second in 1907. Over 100 years later, we introduce a British classic limited to 500 units. Swiss made, designed by Sir Terence Conran and inspired by the heritage of the Brooklands Motor Circuit.

EDITOR’S PICK

FLORENCE CERAMICS

By RACHEL HOGG

By RACHEL HOGG

JOULES

JOHN LEWIS

SBRI

Personalised leather dog walk accessories bundle, £52 sbri.co.uk

CHARLEY CHAU

Deeply dishy luxury dog bed in teal & fuchsia, from £145 charleychau.com

PET TEEZER

Cat grooming brush, £10 tangleteezer.com

WILD ONE Twist toss dog toy, £20 selfridges.com

PETCUBE

Pet camera, £39.96 johnlewis.com

ELEANOR BOWMER

Pet placemat in dalmatian, £7.96 johnlewis.com

SBRI

Luxury leather dog collar, £45 sbri.co.uk

OLIVER BONAS

Orange & blue tassel rope dog lead, £19.50 oliverbonas.com

OLIVER BONAS

Set of two raised dog bowls, £55 oliverbonas.com

Gifts for PETS

Festive treats for our furry friends

EDITOR’S

PICK

DOGGY

BAKING CO.

Carrot cake mix in a bottle, £10.99 bottledbaking.co.uk

CHESHIRE & WAIN

Rococo lilac cat collar, from £55 cheshireandwain.com

JOULES

Dog mattress in rainbow dog print, from £50 joules.com

STHÅL

Arabesque ceramic plates, from £28 sthal.se

BELLA FREUD

Egg cup set, £75 bellafreud.com

SMEG Lever coffee machine, £1649.95 smeguk.com

TOM DIXON Tank whisky gi set, £160 tomdixon.net

HELLE MARDAHI X ELHANATI

Compotier Glass Dish, £695 matchesfashion.com

DIOR MAISON

La Colle Noire - Small Salento Candlestick, £170 dior.com

for HOMES

All wrapped up for interiors lovers

AMBAR + CAMILLE WALALA

Cityscape cushion, £130 ambarldn.com

JONATHAN ADLER

Globo bookends, £425 jonathanadler.com

PULLMAN EDITIONS

Vintage ski poster, £420 pullmaneditions.com

SIBYL COLEFAX & JOHN FOWLER

Squiggle cushion, £660 sibylcolefax.com

By PENDLE HARTE

PAPERCHASE

Pack-away desk, £20 paperchase.com

PAPIER

Tablecloth Check

Meal Planner £22 papier.com

KATE SPADE

Extra large notebook, £23 katespade.co.uk

CARAN D'ACHE

Colour Treasure Bicolor set, £37.99 carandache.com

Stationery GIFTS

For lovers of pen and paper

By PENDLE HARTE

HELLO TIME

Haus planner, £36 hellotime.co.uk

DAISY PARK

Bookaroo pen pouch, £9 daisypark.co.uk

PICK

CARAN D'ACHE

Colour Treasure Ecridor

Sunlight ballpoint pen, £250 carandache.com

OLIVER BONAS

The Positive Wellness Journal, £14.99 oliverbonas.com

RADLEY Prairie pink pen with pouch, £17 radley.co.uk

ONCE UPON A TUESDAY

Bright and Bold family calendar, £18 onceuponatuesday.co.uk

PAPERCHASE

So touch ballpoint pens, set of four, £5 paperchase.com

PAPERCHASE

Lavender pencil case, £7 paperchase.com

A

CHRISTMAS

A warm welcome. A scent of mince pies.

The roar of the fire. The pop of champagne.

The ultimate festive stay.

Coworth Park.

Christmas in SOHO

Head to Soho, the creative hub of London’s West End, for a vibrant mix of independent and concept fashion stores, tailors, record stores, restaurants and bars this Christmas.

This Christmas Soho has something for everyone, and start by popping by some of the most exclusive and independent stores in London. Head to RÆBURN, Footpatrol, Axel Arigato, Wood Wood and Oliver Spencer for the perfect gift for fashion lovers, or visit A.P.C for Parisian classics, Billionaire Boys Club for exclusive launches and collaborations, plus Ace & Tate for some fabulous eyewear.

If vintage is more your style, Dunno. Curated sells one-o products from brands such as Champion and Versace, and you can find premium grade designer vintage clothing and accessories at Reign Vintage.

Find the perfect gift for music lovers at Sister Ray and Reckless Records – an integral part of Soho’s rich history is the presence of vinyl and record stores.

For stocking fillers, head to beauty and grooming stores, Aesop, KLORIS and Johnny’s Chop Shop, as well as MÜHLE where you can find premium shaving brushes, razors, and shaving sets. Don’t forget to visit BLEACH, pioneers of dipdyes, rainbow hues and silver sheens, for all your hair care products this Christmas.

Some of the most well-known jewellery stores can be found in the heart of Soho.

For a gift for that special someone head to iconic rock and roll jewellers The Great Frog to find a timeless piece that will last a lifetime, or Sacred Gold for a luxurious jewellery and shopping experience in London. For something more cutting edge, Metal Morphosis o ers the most extensive range of piercing and fashion jewellery.

After some serious Christmas shopping, it’s time to discover the diverse selection

restaurants, bars and cafés Soho has to o er. Tuck into mouth-watering dishes from Evelyn's Table, Kricket, The Duck and Rice, BAO, Inko Nito and many more. Plus Ramo Ramen, Ugly Dumpling, Ember Yard and Temper are all among popular eateries in the area.

If you fancy a drink after a long day of exploring Soho, you can enjoy delicious cocktails at Heritage, who use masterful mixology and the finest spirits to bring you a cocktail menu with elaborate flavour infusions, and SOMA for drinks inspired from India and beyond. You can also find new openings from Tel-Aviv inspired Miznon and Speedboat Bar who bring the Thai flavours of Bangkok to London.

Don't miss the bright neon Soho signs on Beak Street and Newburgh Street. What can you spot as you walk through Soho? Make sure to snap your photos and tag @ThisIsSoho on socials.

thisissoho.co.uk

Why Soho is the go-to London destination for shopping and dining this Christmas

& DRINK

CERTIFIED SUCCESS

PIPER-HEIDSIECK

Earlier this year, the efforts of Piper-Heidsieck were recognised as they became B Corp Certified, joining a community of companies that are leading a global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.

Acquiring the certification is an extensive process involving the assessment of each brand’s social and environmental influence.

Read more on page 53. piper-heidsieck.com

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for Christmas

Baron de Lay Rioja Reserva, Spain  £12

Made primarily using Tempranillo grapes that are grown in Baron de Ley’s Mendavia vineyards, this Reserva's deep cherry colour and complex aromas are the result of spending 20 months in new oak casks, followed by maturation in the bottle. coop.co.uk

Campaneo Old Vines Garnacha, Spain  £5

A beautifully smooth, rich and full-bodied red with rich plum notes, light spice flavours and just a touch of cherry on the finish. This Garnacha is made from old bush vines 15 to 50 years of age, which give the wine its concentrated fruit flavours. tesco.com

The Hidden Sea Red Blend, Australia  £7.50

This wine is a wellcrafted combination of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec. It is bright red with aromas of red berries, fruit cake spice and toasty oak. These characters carry onto the palate, which is smooth, rich and long. coop.co.uk

TASTING

NOTES

By MARK KEBBLE

Festive getaway

THE CURIOUS PIG IN THE PARLOUR

Whether you’re looking for a stop-over before you fly or want to escape the city, The Curious Pig in the Parlour is the perfect place to stay in Copthorne. This countryside gem is complete with nine boutique-style bedrooms, alongside a stunning pub downstairs. Stay in cosy home-from-home surrounds and explore the rolling Sussex countryside. thecuriouspigintheparlour.com

Sussex's food news and most exciting openings this month

Perfect draw

INK

etch. by Steven Edwards has opened a stylish speakeasy experience to non-diners, following the success of its subterranean bar among its diners. The restaurant was reopened following an extension last November, with diners able to enjoy pre- and post-dinner drinks. However, Steven had always hoped to open up to those looking for a sophisticated drinking experience. Ink is a modern, minimalistic take on the basement speakeasy. etchfood.co.uk

LAST WORD

Where to see in 2023 in Sussex

GOING SOLO

Monkeying about

THE IVY IN THE LANES

Celebrate the festive season at The Ivy in the Lanes, Brighton, where the brasserie will be serving an array of joyful treats, including a limited-edition festive cocktail menu created in collaboration with Monkey 47, delicious a la carte dishes, afternoon tea and lavish set menus designed for larger parties. Featuring six celebratory cocktails, The Ivy’s drinks o ering for the Christmas season includes the Popping Cracker Royale. theivybrighton.com

BUXTED PARK

Welcome the New Year in with Buxted Park’s themed Vegas celebration. If you are staying at the Ashdown Forest hotel overnight, the package includes cream tea on your arrival and breakfast on New Year's Day. handpickedhotels.co.uk

OLD TOLLGATE HOTEL

Following a cocktail on arrival, join the Old Tollgate Hotel in Steyning for a tantalising four-course meal. Then join the New Year’s Eve Party and dance the year away with varied entertainment, which will keep you on the dance floor until the clock strikes midnight. oldtollgatehotel.com

Furna - a new restaurant from Dave Mothersill - will open in Brighton with a multicourse tasting menu that celebrates high quality, Britishgrown ingredients. Furna will be the first solo venture for Dave, one of Brighton's most well-respected chefs, and will welcome guests to enjoy his unique take on classic dining. The regularly changing menu will highlight the season’s best produce. furnarestaurant.co.uk

AMBERLEY CASTLE

If arriving on 30 December, indulge in a sumptuous celebration beginning with a three-course à la carte dinner as you unwind before the next day’s celebrations. New Year’s Eve commences with a glass of Champagne and a memorable sevencourse tasting dinner. amberleycastle.co.uk

ITALIAN JOB

CARLUCCIO’S

When the late Antonio and Priscilla Carluccio opened their first ever deli in Neal Street, London, they had one simple mission: to share the true taste of Italy. Now over 20 years later, their dedication to sourcing the very best produce from the length and breadth of the country is an ethos that still reigns true at Carluccio’s today. From award-winning panettones through to sweet after-dinner treats, stocking fillers and advent calendars, there’s something for everyone at Carluccio’s Chichester this Christmas. carluccios.com

FURNA

Waste not

WANT NOT

From winning MasterChef to opening acclaimed restaurants in Worthing, Kenny Tutt has been a man on a mission. Next up? Tackling Christmas leftovers

By MARK KEBBLE

KENNY TUTT

Kenny Tutt, MasterChef 2018 winner and restaurateur, recently added a Boursin twist to his signature savoury doughnuts when they appeared on the menu of his flagship restaurant Pitch in Worthing, all in aid of FoodCycle.

The Limited Edition Whipped Boursin Savoury Doughnuts launched on the menu as part of a charity initiative in partnership with UK charity FoodCycle. The Boursin upgrade to Tutt’s bestselling dish helped raise funds for the charity. We decided to head to Worthing to find out more about the partnership, how Pitch and his other local restaurant, Bayside Social, are doing, and what his plans for Christmas are.

Q We are fast approaching the season of waste, so how apt is it to discuss your partnership with Boursin and FoodCycle?

A Two-thirds (67%) of Brits struggle

to find the inspiration to turn leftover food and ingredients into a delicious meal, which is why I’ve teamed up with Boursin®, the nation’s favourite indulgent cheese, and UK charity FoodCycle. Inspiration is a challenge faced by FoodCycle volunteers week in, week out, who use surplus food to provide meals for over 56 community projects per week. The partnership aims to empower the hundreds of hands-on volunteers and the 98% of Brits who admit to being concerned about food waste, to think di erently about the dry bread, leftover salad leaves, overripe bananas, or milk lingering in your fridge. Research by Boursin shows 38% of Brits admit to wasting more food at Christmas time, so it’s even more important during the festive period.

Q What is the key message you want to get across?

A Most people – me included – tend to have leftover food and all the culprits you’d expect in a busy family home… it happens! With so many lacking the time and the know-how, this campaign is my

passion point; showing people that you can cook and eat delicious seasonal recipes using simple ingredients like Boursin to elevate dishes. Getting creative doesn’t mean hours in the kitchen, it’s about tasty tricks and novel ways to combat waste, saving and getting more from your leftovers.

I’ve worked alongside the FoodCycle volunteers first-hand and an incredible e ort puts hearty, conscientious food on the table each week.

Q What kind of recipes have you created and how much money will go towards charity from them?

A I’ve created a bunch of recipes to encourage the nation to get creative in the kitchen to elevate leftovers into delicious dishes. I love a Christmas dinner and I'm sure the feeling is mutual up and down the land, however the leftovers and the adventurous ways to use them over the next few festive days is really exciting. The recipes include creamy turkey and Boursin zero waste pie, veggie Christmas dinner leftover flatbread, and sweet chilli cauliflower "wings". For every dish shared on social media, tagging in @BoursinUK and using the hashtag #youcreatewedonate, Boursin will donate £5* to FoodCycle. Every £5 donation.

Q Do you like to cook at Christmas?

A I try to cook and prepare as much as I can before the big day. This lets me spend some good time with the family and my girls. It's nice to be present on the day, so getting things like the gravy made

CAULIFLOWER WINGS

PITCH

“It's about tasty tricks and novel ways to combat waste”

FLATBREAD

and the vegetables peeled and cut makes the whole a air a lot more enjoyable.

Q Will Pitch and Bayside Social both be open on Christmas Day?

A We haven't got plans to open on Christmas Day. We have a great team who work hard all year and I want them to relax and enjoy the day with their families.

Q What kind of menus do you have planned over the festive period?

A I like to make sure we have some of the classics on the menu like a great prawn cocktail and of course a festive plate. This year we have a very good turkey ballotine, pomme anna cooked in goose fat and all the usual trimmings. Our gravy takes three days to make, so that is usually the star of the show.

Q How would you sum up what Pitch o ers?

A Unpretentious but well thought out British cookery with flavour and quality, stage and centre.

Q Is Bayside Social di erent?

A Bayside's focus is very much on local seafood nestled right on the Sussex coast. We also o er breakfast and brunch and for lunch/dinner a creative selection of fresh small plates to graze on. The restaurant style really suits the locality.

Q How do you look back on your time on MasterChef?

A It was such a brilliant time. The show itself, the friends I got to meet and the surprise, but of course proud look on my mum and wife’s face every time I told them

I had reached the next round. It was a very fond memory. I put every part of me into it. People ask if I would do it again. I would have to think about that one!

Q How did it change your life?

A It completely changed my life. It allowed me to turn a passion into a career. After working with a bank for 18 years it was a massive change, but I wouldn't change it for the world. No two days are the same.

Q Talking about Christmas, are there places in Sussex that you love to visit over the festive period?

A We love going for a good walk with Ralph, our dog, over the Downs. It builds up a great appetite. We also like going to the beach on a cold day just to see the crashing sea. Sussex is a wonderful place with so much variety and beauty. We visit a church in Tarring for the carol service on Christmas Eve and go to a local pub after for a wee drink just to put us in the spirit.

kennytutt.co.uk

(* Total donation capped at £20,000 please see boursin.co.uk/foodcycle-campaign for full T&Cs)

PIE IN THE SKY

The Creamy Turkey and Boursin Zero Waste Pie is one of those recipes that shows waste can be put to good use

Serves 4 • Difficulty-Easy

INGREDIENTS

• 500g Pre-made pu pastry • 600-700g Cooked white or dark turkey meat, chopped

• 2-3 Rashers of bacon, sliced • 1 Small white onion, chopped • Mix of leftover cooked vegetables, chopped • Any leftover stu ng (optional) • 150g Garlic & Herb Boursin

• 100ml Double cream • 2 tbsp. creme fraiche

• Few sprigs of fresh thyme • 1 egg, beaten • Small splash of oil

METHOD

1 Preheat your oven to 180°C fan/200°C non fan/gas mark 4. 2 Start by making your pie filling. Heat a splash of oil in a large pan and add the bacon lardons, chopped onion and thyme, cook over a medium heat for a few minutes. Add the turkey meat, mixed leftover vegetables and if you have some, the leftover stu ng. If you have any pigs in blankets pop those in too. 3 In a separate saucepan over a medium heat mix the Boursin, cream and creme fraiche and mix to a creamy consistency. Pour this over your turkey mix and stir through well. 4 Get a deep large pie dish. Dust a clean surface with some flour and roll your pastry out so it’s just bigger than the size of your dish. Generously spoon the turkey mixture into the pie dish. Carefully place the pu pastry sheet on top of your pie mix and crimp the edges with a fork. Brush the pastry with the egg mix and using a knife make a hole in the centre of the pie to allow the steam to escape for a nice crisp top. Pop the pie in the preheated oven and bake for around 40 minutes or until the pastry is pu ed and golden. 5 When the pie is ready, serve with some green vegetables.

“People ask if I would do MasterChef again... I would have to think about that!”

LEFTOVER PIE

BAYSIDE SOCIAL

Vines sparkling with frost. Ice crystals glistening on cobwebs and grasses.

The winter months in our vineyards see some of the most dazzling scenery. With acres to explore, plus the warmest of welcomes in our tasting room, it’s a wonderfully atmospheric time to visit.

Our tour vouchers also make memorable and unique Christmas gifts.

Explore our collection of experiences at GUSBOURNE.COM/TOURS

CHAMPAGNE MOMENTS

Since its inception, PiperHeidsieck owes its success to audacious leadership and a pioneering spirit, anchored in its companywide practices – an approach now being recognised by others.

The House showcases its unwavering commitment towards a conscientious, sustainable future and responsible Champagne production by implementing several initiatives across a number of areas including its carbon footprint reduction, vineyard operations, social impact and supplier management.

Now, the e orts of the Champagne House, Piper-Heidsieck, have been recognised as it becomes B Corp Certified, joining a community of companies that are leading a global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative change.

A NEW WAY FORWARD

B Corp certification is given to businesses that meet high standards of social

and environmental impact, verifying its performance, accountability, and transparency by allowing information to be measured against B Lab’s criteria. Piper-Heidsieck obtained a score of 91.9 points, verified by B Lab, the non-profit network founded in 2006.

Acquiring the certification is an extensive process involving the assessment of each brand’s social and environmental influence with more than 200 questions as defined by B Lab, covering governance, employees, communities, and the environment.

PIPER-HEIDSIECK CEO BENOIT COLLARD

“Achieving B Corp certification reflects our pioneering ethos and daring initiative

to be a driving force of change within the Champagne industry. This certification not only recognises our environmental impact in the vineyards, but extends to our entire winemaking ecosystem, our community and our workplace.

“This process began with an innovative vision from our Chief Winemaker Emilien Boutillat, which propelled our entire team on a journey to work together towards a shared mission, and I am immensely proud to see this remarkable achievement brought to life. Becoming B Corp Certified marks a commemorative occasion in the history of Piper-Heidsieck, yet it also signifies that together we are striving towards sustainable change and we hope to inspire others in the wine industry to implement similar initiatives.”

For Piper-Heidsieck, the B Corp certification represents a first milestone in the reinvention of the iconic Champagne House’s operations towards a positive and purpose-driven business model.

piper-heidsieck.com

How Piper-Heidsieck is uncorking a sustainable future

“It has an unwavering commitment to sustainability”

PHOTO: TIM COPPENS

HOUR Cocktail

Three perfect festive mixes from Silent Pool

Mediterranean Rosemary

Green Man Wildwood Gin is the world's first spirit to be packaged in a cardboard bottle. Not world saving by itself, we admit. But if we're going to do what's right by the earth, we figured we'd do it right here, where we live, in Britain's most wooded county. Enjoy top notes of fresh pine, birch leaf and fir, which give way to a herbal mid-palate of rose hips and apple with a woody, rooty finish, paired perfectly with the fresh and herbaceous notes of Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic.

INGREDIENTS

• Cubed ice

• 50ml of Greenman Wildwood Gin

• 150ml of Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic

• A sprig of Rosemary

METHOD

In a tall glass, and plenty of ice, pour 50ml of Greenman Wildwood Gin layered with 150ml of Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic and garnish with a sprig of Rosemary to enhance the forest floor flavours.

Green Man Wildwood Gin is available for purchase directly from Silent Pool for £30

Grapefruit & Pink Pepper

Silent Pool Rare Citrus is an innovative and alluring gin handcra ed with the world’s rarest citrus. Expertly balances bright and zesty notes of Buddha’s Hand with enticingly rich notes of Natsu Dai Dai, subtly sweetened with Hirado Buntan with aromatic spice, perfectly paired with London Essence Pomelo and Pink Peppercorn Tonic, creating Fresh, zingy and deliciously fragrant G&T. This citrus infused gin is best served with seafood.

Grapefruit, Bergamot and Orange

Silent Pool Gin is a luxury English gin handcra ed with 24 botanicals in the Surrey Hills, full-bodied and fresh with clarity and depth of flavour. A rich, juniperdriven spirit with floral layers of lavender and chamomile paired perfectly with a burst of citrus forward tonic, Grapefruit & Bergamot from Franklin and Sons. This gin is best served with cucumber sandwiches or smoked cheese.

INGREDIENTS

• Cubed ice

• 50ml of Silent Pool Gin

• 150ml of Franklin and Sons

• Grapefruit & Bergamot Tonic

• Silent Pool Gin’s Aromatic Liquid Garnish of Bergamot Orange or a slice of orange.

METHOD

In a copa glass, and plenty of ice, pour 50ml of Silent Pool Gin, layered with 150ml of Franklin and Sons Grapefruit & Bergamot Tonic and garnished with SilentPool Gin’s Aromatic Liquid Garnish of Bergamot Orange or a slice of orange. Silent Pool

INGREDIENTS

• Cubed ice

• 50ml of Silent Pool Rare Citrus Gin

• 150ml of London Essence Pomelo and Pink Bergamot Tonic

• A slice of grapefruit

METHOD

In a copa glass, and plenty of ice, pour 50ml of Rare Citrus Gin layered with 150ml of London Essence Pomelo and Pink Bergamot Tonic. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit. Silent Pool Rare Citrus is available for purchase directly from Silent Pool for £39.50w

Specialist Bespoke Design Service for new, dated or inherited jewels.

In a World of change our Values, Craftsmanship, Expertise and High Standards remain constant.

Sensational jewellery in stock to view. Complex Restoration Work and Valuations undertaken on-site, call or email for an appointment.

LUSTROUS LUXURY

PEARL LOWE

Sussex-based Pearl Lowe's dresses are all vintage inspired and made to flatter the feminine figure. Drawing inspiration from the 20s, 30s and 40s with midi-dresses to vintage inspired velvet capes, Pearl's designs are feminist masterpieces, celebrating everything that’s sexy about women. To accentuate the point, her new velvet dresses are perfect for Christmas and the party season. pearllowe.co.uk

Sugarhill Brighton 58 • Jewellery 60 • The Shoot 64

FIVE for the

FESTIVITIES

One of Sussex’s finest labels, Sugarhill Brighton, o er up their top tips for Christmas fashion

TOUCH OF SPARKLE

Heighten the glamour with a shimmering sequin or touch of sparkle. Whilst metallics are a Christmas staple, we suggest instead of going all over glitter, opt for a modern take on ‘jeans and a nice top’ with a sparkly knit paired with a skirt or trousers. Our favourites this year are our Astrid ‘Let’s Dance’ and ‘Dreamy Days’ knits, and our brand-new Cece Sequin Knits. Don’t forget you can also add extra-glam with accessories, a statement earring, #neckmess necklace stack or chunky bangle can completely transform an outfit.

AMP UP THE COLOUR

Joyful dopamine dressing isn’t just for summer. Ditch the silver and golds and amp up the colour this party season with disco brights. Our brand-new Rainbow Stars print gives a neon e ect with scattered green, orange, and red outlined stars, whilst our Rainbow Leopard print fabric with jewel toned animal print on a dark green base with flecks of black ups the ante on a classic Christmas colour. Elsewhere, our Rosie Fairisle sweater is a festive twist on our much-loved dinosaur jumpers and adds a playful twist to classic Christmas knits.

ASTRID SILVER LIGHTNING STRIKES JUMPER IN TEAL, £56

NOLA STAR POLKA PATCHWORK DRESS, £75

BLISS RAINBOW STARS MIDI DRESS, £79

STAYING SNUG

Keep it casual yet chic with a comfy cosy outfit. Snuggly knits, sweatshirts and stretchy joggers are our go-to for ultimate luxe comfort. This season our chunky ‘Aliana’, ‘Stacey’, and ‘Janie’ jumpers are full of celestial motifs; from the black ‘Aliana Lightning Strikes’ jumper adorned with white lightning bolts, the teal ‘Stacey Ka-Pow! Lightning’ jumper featuring a trio of red and grey lightning bolts, or the ‘Janie Space Mountain Scene’ jumper, they all bring a sophisticated edge to classic loungewear. New for 2022 are our Valentina and Avril sweaters; made from 100% Organic Cotton these designs are super soft with a relaxed fit. For Boxing Day you can’t go wrong with loungewear, perfect for a long walk or snuggling by the TV, our matching Noah and Ashley sets are e ortless style and comfort.

LAYERING

Layer prints, textures, fabrics and shapes for a fully versatile festive look over the Christmas peiod. A great option for re-working and remixing outfits, why not wear a shirt dress over suit trousers to give it a more evening feel, or layer your favourite dress with a new knit to change up the look? Sweater vests are still trend favourites too, wear over a shirt and pair with a sparkly skirt for a luxe Christmas outfit at your o ce party.

We also like to play with lengths to get the perfect line for your shape, whether it’s a mini, midi or maxi, long sleeve, or short sleeve. Prints like our Star Polka Patchwork come on the short-sleeved Amilie Midi Tea Dress and the long-sleeved Nola Maxi Dress for multi-option styling.

JUMPSUITS

A festive frock is often the go-to for easy Christmas style, but don’t overlook a jumpsuit. A wardrobe staple that can be worn year-after-year, jumpsuits are a timeless, flattering option that can be styled up or down. Our Adele and Rylee Jumpsuits both have a cropped wide leg, a tie waist, and pockets.

sugarhillbrighton.com

“Layer prints, textures, fabrics and shapes for a versatile look”

AVRIL CANDY STRIPES ZIP JUMPER, £54

ROSIE DINOSAUR FAIRISLE SWEATER, £54S

Art Deco

Christmas is the perfect time to revisit the Roaring Twenties

By RACHEL HOGG

ANNOUSHKA

Gold & Diamond Arrow Feather Lapis Earrings, £2,790 annoushka.com

EMMA CLARKSON WEBB

Bespoke Yellow & White Gold Joanna Ring, £POA emmacwebb.com

RAINBOW K

Shield Gold, Ruby & Diamond Ring, £2,905 net-a-porter.com

KOJIS

Platinum Art Deco Plaque Ring, £3,950 libertylondon.com

V BY LAURA VANN

Thalia Sterling Silver Bracelet, £159 vbylauravann.com

RACHEL JACKSON

Statement Art Deco Padlock Necklace, £250 racheljacksonlondon.com

VILTIER

Magnetic Diamond, Bull's Eye & Gold Earrings £12,400 matchesfashion.com

WAKEFIELDS JEWELLERS

Platinum Vintage Style Round Brilliant Cut & Tapered Diamond Ring, £3,115, wakefieldsjewellers.co.uk

COMPANY

THE VINTAGE RING

Ottilie Antique Victorian Ruby & Diamond Ring, £2,980 thevintageringco.com

The Triple-Four Racing Chronograph has made a seriously dazzling impression on the world of horology since its launch this autumn. Limited to just 500 examples, the debut timepiece from new British firm Brooklands Watch Company is a modern classic with heritage at its heart.

Designed by the visionary Sir Terence Conran, the Triple-Four is inspired by the golden age of racing at Brooklands, the birthplace of motor sport and aviation in Britain. Sir Terence’s father often attended the races at Brooklands’ historic track in Surrey and his mother learnt to fly at its Flying Club.

His Triple-Four Chronograph design references the record-holding NapierRailton racing car built at Brooklands in 1933. The watch face perimeter is banked, echoing Brooklands race track’s unique

sloped embankment, while the blue leather strap echoes the distinctive block tread design of early car tyres. Its back reveals a rotor design modelled after the car’s legendary Triple-Four Aero aircraft engine.

The Triple-Four has already received praise from the likes of Tracey Llewellyn, watch editor of The Telegraph. In The Best Watches for Motoring Enthusiasts in WatchPro, Tracey noted that “watches and cars are a match made in mechanical heaven” and named the Triple-Four “a modern classic”.

An ideal Christmas gift, each of the 500 limited-edition watches is individually numbered, signed by Sir Terence and presented in a beautiful blue velvet-lined leather watch box. Displayed neatly inside are the Triple-Four Chronograph, a slim brass warranty card and a members badge. This badge entitles the Triple-Four owners to a drive on Brooklands’ world-famous Test Hill track in a specially commissioned Brooklands Watch Company electric Bugatti Baby II car.

Brooklands Watch Company was founded by aeromechanical engineer Simon Je s. “The Triple-Four is a piece of art with a purpose. It has a beating heart and a story of British motor racing to tell,” he explains. “I’ve enjoyed flying for many years and settled mainly on helicopter flying before motorsport took over. I visited Brooklands racetrack to see my uncle’s Brooklands racing car being run after many years in storage. It was incredible. I was astonished that Brooklands built and operated the first Motor Racing Chronograph accurate to 1000th second in 1907. This inspired me to create a luxury British watch brand.”

The limited-edition Triple-Four retails at £5,754 and is available on the Brooklands Watch Company website and until the end of the year exclusively at The Conran Shop, Chelsea. Brooklands Museum Trust and London’s Design Museum will both benefit from the sale of each watch.

Taking a closer look at the debut timepiece from Brooklands Watch Company, designed by Sir Terence Conran no less

SIR TERENCE CONRAN

TRIPLE-FOUR CHRONOGRAPH WITH WARRANTY AND MEMBERS BADGE

PART Y Planner

Looking for the perfect festive look? Somerset by Alice Temperley –found at John Lewis Chichester –may just set you on the right path

& BEAUTY

HOLIDAY SPARKLE

CHANEL

You can celebrate the holidays in a swirl of stars with this stunning new holiday collection. When searching for inspiration for 2022's exclusive range, it seems that Chanel’s Makeup Creation Studio simply looked to the skies. The result is a truly stunning collection of shimmering products, all delicately embossed with a celestial signature. chanel.com

Stop living with pain and get back to living life

Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, King Edward VII’s Hospital is here to help you on the journey back to health.

From diagnostics at our brand-new dedicated outpatient centre, to treatment from world-class consultants and follow ups with highly-trained physiotherapists, you’ll receive seamless care tailored for you.

Find out more about receiving private treatment at a time that suits you at kingedwardvii.co.uk or speak to our friendly team on 020 45712 097.

5-10 Beaumont Street, Marylebone, London, W1G 6AA

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Bespoke private healthcare tailored for you

BEAUTY

NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By RACHEL HOGG

FOCUS

TREAT YOURSELF

FOREST ESSENTIALS

An indulgent haven will be coming to the UK this month when the luxury Ayurvedic beauty brand, Forest Essentials, opens its first UK standalone store. Inside its doors, customers will be able to uncover the secrets of centuries-old Indian beauty treatments and access holistic healthcare advice. forestessentials.co.uk

Ancient SCIENCE BATHED IN GOLD

MOLTON BROWN

Take the most luxurious shower of your life courtesy of this new product by Molton Brown. The Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold Bath & Shower Gel contains a combination of rare and rich ingredients and is infused with flakes of 23.5-carat gold. You’ll love the heady fragrance, with its base of honeyed resins, heart of heavy Oudh accord, and top notes of shimmering bergamot. moltonbrown.co.uk

Yours Forever

REIA

We’ve found the perfect subscription for any eco-conscious beauty lovers looking to reduce the presence of single-use plastic in their bathrooms. Subscribers are each sent a glass ‘forever bottle’, which can be refilled with one of the innovative pouches, which are delivered as o en needed. reia.store

Skin Laundry prides themselves on having made laser facials ‘a thing’, so this month I stopped into their Soho location to see what all the buzz is about. I was advised to start o with their Signature Laser Facial, which acts as an introduction to their laser procedures. The treatment is performed using a YAG laser, which works by penetrating deep into the skin. This second layer of skin is where most of the problems exist, hence why laser treatments are a cure-all for most skincare a ictions. As it was working, the technician explained how the laser is able to target each of my major skin concerns, which are hormonal acne, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. I wouldn’t describe the procedure as uncomfortable, but as the laser works, you do feel a zapping sensation, which is similar to how laser hair removal feels, just less intense. I noticed the laser getting louder and slightly more painful in certain areas, which is apparently because that is where there was more congestion or pigmentation. Any discomfort was only temporary, the technician did just four passes over my face and I was in and out of the door in under 30 minutes. This, and the minimal downtime afterwards, is why I think this facial would be perfect for anyone wanting to squeeze a quick treatment into their lunch break.

SKIN LAUNDRY

To find a clinic near you visit, skinlaundry.com

We have found the perfect facial for the busy o ce worker

TOP PICKS

BEST FOR TRAIL

Tackle trails and roads in rain or shine with the Challenger series. These water-resistant, all-terrain shoes will take you everywhere, no matter the weather conditions.

FITNESS NOTES

By RACHEL HOGG

BEST FOR ROAD

Built to endure the harder surfaces, the Bondi series are some of the hardest working shoes in the HOKA lineup, and offer an incredibly so and balanced ride.

BEST FOR BOTH

Built for the long haul, the Mafate series is durable and protective enough for longer distances, and are designed with Hoka's lightest and most responsive foam.

All styles mentioned are available for purchase at hoka.com

1. TAKE YOUR TIME

The temptation is to just put your trainers on and start running, but most injuries occur from doing too much too soon, so you need to think long term and follow a training plan. The body can do incredible things if given time to adapt and plenty of opportunity to recover from the stress of training. You will need to give yourself enough time to build up to a marathon, but how long exactly depends on your starting point; for example, the beginner plan on the Onetrack app is 16 weeks.

2. KNOW YOUR BODY

Before taking on any sport it's a good idea to get yourself ready to perform and have your mechanics evaluated. With running, the most important thing is to assess if your body has the capacity to distribute the load evenly. The biomechanics screen at our Onetrack studio is able to identify what could lead to excessive stress being placed on any one joint, muscle or ligament. Knowing this information helps us implement the most impactful corrective exercises and hopefully minimise the risk of injury.

3. FIND SOME SUPPORT

Finding and staying connected to a community of runners is essential because it can help you feel more motivated and give you a sense of accountability. Many people also find working with a coach during the training process very beneficial, as it’s a soundboard to vent at and a source of reassurance. You can access the support of coaches easily via the Onetrack app, which is available to download from the App Store and Google Play, with subscription plans starting at £15 per month.

Founder of run coaching platform Onetrack, Anthony Fletcher, gives us his top tips to work o the festive excess

ON -TRACK

INTERIORS

COLOUR WAYS

ANNIE SLOAN

Colour expert Annie Sloan has a firm belief that a new coat of paint is the solution to most problems. It's not too late to upgrade your walls, woodwork or accessories before adorning them with decorations – and her chalk paint requires no priming and very little prep. anniesloan.co.uk

Henry Holland 76 • The Little Botanical 78 • Trend 81

Lighten

collection of lamps

Words PEARL BOYD

This new collection of ceramic pieces was hand-built by Henry Holland and his small team of ceramicists. As an extension of his signature nerikomi technique, a process of stacking di erent coloured clays on top of each other, Henry designed his first capsule of floor and table lights that brings this look to a new area.

“Lighting felt like an exciting next step for us at the studio, moving our ceramic work on to something quite unexpected for the home,” he explains. “I started to explore what a Henry Holland Studio lamp could look like by combining existing shapes and forms in the main ceramics collection, drawing from our vases, dinnerware and planters, and building new silhouettes for each base.”

The fashion designer launched his first ceramics collection during the pandemic and the new lamps sit alongside a collection of plates, bowls and vessels. “My aim was to create pieces with dramatic scale

that would become central talking-point pieces for a room. As with all of our other collections, it was important for us to retain our process of working with artisanal makers in the UK and so we worked with a frame maker, furniture designer and lampshade maker to create all of the various elements by hand. Working with numerous processes on a single piece really reminded me of the work involved in making fashion pieces, with a team of creative skill sets all coming together to create the final designs.”

The table lamp base is based on the idea of stacking balls. “I’ve always been a fan of the bobbin technique used in wooden furniture and I started toying with the idea of creating ceramic spheres that would stack – like an abacus – over a solid oak frame to form the base of the lamp and create a similar silhouette. Instead of uniformity, however, I’ve mixed di erent sizes here which I think gives this a unique profile and makes a strong stand-alone statement.”

A similar technique was used to create a side table. “Admittedly this isn’t lighting, but I got carried away when designing

and thought that the ceramic lamp bases could translate very well as a side table. It was an experiment, but one that I’m excited to explore further as we look to develop what other furniture pieces we could potentially create in the future.”

A range of ceramic lamps create a di erent kind of light from the glow of a linen lampshade. “These slender ceramic lamps are designed to cast light upwards on walls and ceilings, and to give a contrast to the wider shade designs in the collection which take up a bit more space. Made entirely of ceramic, I picture these pieces at either side of a bed to create a relaxed lighting scheme when turned on, but also to act as interesting sculptures when not in use.”

And the collection’s largest piece is a floor lamp. “The big boy. I love the impact of this lamp and that it can just stand on its own as a piece of sculpture within a space. The irregularity of the di erent shaped marbled spheres draws the eye and the bespoke linen shade reflects the curvaceous profile while casting a relaxing, warming glow. The ceramic glaze also reflects the light beautifully.”

The collection is available exclusively at henryhollandstudio.com and Sister by Studio Ashby

Henry Holland moves further into homeware with a new

HENRY HOLLAND

Planting IDEA an

The new Christmas range from The Little Botanical includes gift inspiration to suit every taste and interior, from the luxury Christmas Plant Table Gift Set, to mini succulent, homeware and candle stocking-fillers, as well as bespoke festive plant bundles.

From gorgeous gifting to updating your home décor for the festive season, The Little Botanical has your Christmas styling needs covered. All plants arrive in a choice of bespoke ceramic pots, including the iconic festive green and gold copper dipped pots and the newly launched and very stylish glazed pots.

Co-founder of The Little Botanical, and Sussex local, Morag Hill says: “Christmas is the perfect time to treat your home to stylish seasonal greenery to create a warm and magical living space. We also know it’s the little details that count when it comes to gifting and this year, we are excited to introduce our new personalisation service to make your TLB gifts even more meaningful and memorable.”

With the Christmas tree often the centrepiece of any room setting, Morag adds: “Christmas trees are the ultimate in festive greenery and are guaranteed to bring some seasonal cheer to your home. Did you know?

Potted trees are still growing and can be taken outdoors after the festive season to be enjoyed well into the new year and beyond.”

Here The Little Botanical o er their top tips to look after your Christmas tree

• Position – keep your Christmas tree out of direct sunlight as they will thrive in a cooler spot in your home.

• No draughts – position your tree out of draughts and away from radiators to avoid needle drop.

• Water – water your Christmas tree every few days, when the top layers of soil have dried out. To check, push your finger an inch or so into the top layer every few days and if it is dry it’s time for a drink.

• Do move your tree outside after Christmas to allow it to continue to grow. Choose a sheltered spot with good light. And bring inside at night for a couple of weeks to help him adjust.

• Do lightly prune your tree as it grows to maintain its shape.

• Don’t overwater your tree or leave it standing in water, this can cause root rot.

• Don’t weigh your tree down with lots of heavy decorations. Potted trees are often younger and therefore less robust than cut trees, so stick to lightweight decorations to avoid damaging the branches. thelittlebotanical.com

Sussex-based The Little Botanical will ensure your home looks and smells the part this Christmas

It's a WRAP

The Design Director of F&P Interiors on how to make your home extra cosy this Christmas

By EMMA VANS AGNEW

As we swap floaty kaftans for chunky knits and start shopping for Christmas gifts, the changing seasons have brought cooler weather and darker evenings. Perfect for cosy nights at home with the family, it is important that your home o ers a comfortable andenergy e cientenvironment for you all to enjoy.

It’s always lovely to have an autumn throw or blanket at hand to wrap around you on those chilly evenings. Faux fur throws are always a welcome addition to any room – drape them over chairs or on the end of your bed to bring a feeling of warmth and cosiness.

Many of our clients have a change of cushions for winter, so think about wools, velvets, felted fabrics, fabrics rich in texture and in colour. If your interior style is very clean and fresh adding darker colours –charcoal grey, rich conker brown, deep russet – will add depth and warmth to your room. If you already have plenty of colour then adding cushions in lovely textures with the addition of flu y trims, pompoms or tassels will add an extra sense of festive fun!

Now the flip flops and sliders have gone to the back of the cupboard and the sheepskin slippers are out, it’s time to invest in a sumptuous rug. There's something comforting about stepping o the sofa or out of bed onto a soft rug. Both shaggy and short pile rugs in yellows, oranges and charcoal grey are especially perfect for creating a feeling of warmth. If you don't want to replace your existing rug, look for a smaller one that complements your existing style. You can then layer them to add depth and interest to your floors.

Chooselampshadesin autumnal colours such as red, orange or brown to create a pleasing glow. Floor and side lamps can be

used instead of ceiling pendants to create a more intimate space, or opt for amade to measure lampshade that can be designed to create the perfect light levels in your room. Adding seasonal flowers is a great way to add colours and texture into your home. Autumnal blooms o er a rich colour palette and elegant branches with leafy stems and charming blooms. A floral display will add the finishing touch to your room or sideboard and the fact that they are picked in season means that they will continue looking beautiful for longer. With Christmas around the corner the addition of a floral wreath hung on a wall can make a striking piece of art, garlands over your fireplace or wound around the bannister add to the festive spirit and you can use wonderful scented fir or eucalyptus to bring a seasonal smell.

Emma Vans Agnew is the Design Director at Sussex-based F&P Interiors. Find out more at fabricsandpapers.com

Tis the SEASON

Contemporary Danish furniture brand BoConcept, with a store in Chichester, will help consumers celebrate in style with their new campaign

BoConcept’s ‘Season in Style’ campaign is set to inspire consumers with timely gift ideas, styling tips and décor inspiration, helping them create a truly unique home with BoConcept’s customisable Danish design furniture.

The campaign’s imagery captures the warmth and hygge typical of this season, with the sleek and timeless Danish design as a protagonist. Simple joys, such as relaxing on the sofa or sitting at the dinner table with friends and family, is celebrated with a well-deserved return of these special moments of togetherness.

Below, BoConcept’s Collection and Visuals Director, Claus Ditlev Jensen, presents his favourite designs for this season.

OTTAWA CHAIR

Visibly inspired by nature with its leaf-shape and curved design, the Ottawa dining chair is truly a unique piece of design furniture. Once you are seated, you will discover that the Ottawa chair is not only characteristic in looks, but also in comfort. The twig-like legs on Ottawa add to the organic chair design, completing its unique look. At the same time, the sculptured seat without upholstery highlights the clean lines and minimal form.

“A timeless design for a dining chair that is both extremely comfortable and stylish. It’s the perfect time to take it home and celebrate in style,” says Claus.

KINGSTON TABLE

Beauty and functionality come together in the stylish Kingston table. The organic shape radiates softness, while the slightly tapered and inclined legs ensure a light, Nordic expression. You can almost feel Kingston call for you to come sit down and enjoy Danish design at its finest.

“Our consumers really love Kingston,” says Claus, “and because of its excellent quality, it’s a design that you will enjoy for a very long time.”

PRINCETON CHAIR

In Princeton, designer Morten Georgsen strikes a balance between lightness and curvaceous visual comfort, which has a subtly feminine expression. The elegant backrest invites, drawing the eye down to its comfortable seat. Once seated, the design creates a cocooning e ect without hindering interaction. Princeton can be finished in any of 120+ fabrics and leathers.

“This chair is the perfect match for the Kingston table – an outstanding design that is extremely comfortable too. Perfect for entertaining your guests during these festivities.”

ENTERTAIN IN STYLE WITH FIORENTINA AND BERGAMO

Among the undisputed protagonists of this season, the Fiorentina dining table and Bergamo sofa will let consumers create a stylish festive atmosphere, adding a sophisticated touch to their homes.

Fiorentina is a show-stopping moment amongst BoConcept’s latest designs.

Featuring the brand’s signature butterfly leaf extension – cleverly hidden within its striking, sculptural base – Fiorentina does the near impossible and finds the fun in functionality. It invites diners to go from an intimate two-person meal to an impressive 12-person dinner party with no trouble at all.

Comfort is king with BoConcept’s new lounge sofa, Bergamo. Crafted by leading Danish designer Morten Georgsen, this design demands the spotlight. It’s the statement piece in any room, and it’s not hard to see why: its organic shape features rounded arms; curved, freestanding back cushions; and exceptionally soft seating made with a foam core for maximum comfort.

SEASONAL DECORATION IDEAS

BoConcept will also release video tutorials with ideas and tips, which will be available on its social media channels. From the perfect seasonal table setting, to stylish folded napkins, consumers will be inspired to personalise their home, creating their own version of the ‘season of style’.

BOCONCEPT

BoConcept’s professional interior designers are on hand to help you co-create your personal space with their any-project size interior design service. Visit them at The Corn Exchange, Baffins Lane, Chichester, PO19 1BF, call 01243 786555 or visit boconcept.com

ERCOL

Forli Chaise, £3,615 ercol.com

Harry Chesterfi eld sofa, from £2,125 roseandgrey.com

UK HOMELIVING

Marco 2.5 Seater Sofa in Sanded Charcoal £1,995 ukhomeliving.com

PICK

LIGNE ROSET

Souffl ot sofa, from £3,436 ligne-roset-westend.co.uk

SNUG

The Rebel 3 seater sofa, £1,429 snugsofa.com

JONATHAN ADLER

Ether Cloud settee, £3,320 sweetpeaandwillow.com

ON THE COUCH

All the best sofas to sink into over the festive period

By PENDLE HARTE

LOAF

Squisharoo sofa, £1,445 loaf.com

Sereno sofa, from £2,985 theconranshop.co.uk

MADE

Scott sofa, £1,500 made.com

BORNALDO

Saddle sofa, £3,090 gomodern.co.uk

SOFAS AND STUFF

Velvet Helmsley Snuggle, £2,509 sofasandstuff.com

PIET HEIN EEK

Home sofa, from £7,309 scp.co.uk

SOFA.COM

Snowdrop Button Back 2.5 seat sofa, £1,540 sofa.com

ROSE & GREY

THE CONRAN SHOP

MICUCCI INTERIORS

Folkifunki Grimace vase, £590 micucci.co.uk

EDITOR’S

PICK

VAISSELLE

Jughead jug, £90 conranshop.co.uk

MARIMEKKO

Karhuemo mug, £14 marimekko.com

REIKO KANEKO

FOR SCP

Terracotta jug, £85 scp.co.uk

SWEETPEA & WILLOW

Orca jug, £35 sweetpeaandwillow.com

GLAZE OVER

A look at the loveliest ceramics for Christmas

By PENDLE HARTE

QUINCE AND COOK

Petunia dinner plate, £18 quinceandcook.co.uk

HEAVENLY HOMES AND GARDENS

Rustic washed terracotta vase with handles, £30 heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk

HOUSE OF HACKNEY

Dessert plate, £16 anthropologie.com

ARIANNA DE LUCA

Exclusive vases, from £85 conranshop.co.uk

COX & COX

Ribbed stoneware vase, £60 coxandcox.co.uk

HK LIVING

70s bowl on foot, £36 nordicnest.com

THE CURIOUS DEPARTMENT

Insect Mandala tea cup and saucer, £28 thecuriousdepartment.com

REX LONDON

Moorish Cinnamon fl ower plate, £8.95 rexlondon.com

GO LARGE BLOOM

Bloom's Christmas Wreath designs are 100% plastic-free and created using sustainable fl oristry techniques. These expert London fl orists make every single festive wreath by hand. From £155 bybloom.co.uk

A MIXED BUNCH

UNCUT STEMS

Born from a desire for a more creative, sustainable and educational fl ower subscription that champions real fl owers, Uncut Stems offers a journey through the British growing season from spring blossoms to Christmas wreaths. uncutstems.co.uk

METAL HEAD

ROSE & GREY

Bring the festive season into your home in a more suble way by hanging this stylish metal wreath above your mantlepiece or on a wall. We love the brass fi nish and delicate berry details. £45 roseandgrey.co.uk

WHITE LIGHT COX AND COX

The subtle and elegant Gypsophila Lit Wreath has a simple, round silhouette, a total of 15 steady warm white micro LED bulbs and is adorned in tiny white faux fl owers with a glitter fi nish.£30 coxandcox.co.uk

MASTER CLASS

PETERSHAM NURSERIES

Immersive wreath making masterclass using sustainable fl oristry techniques and Petersham Nurseries’ dramatic fl oristry style take place from 28 November. Book now. petershamnurseries.com

SCREEN OF DREAMS

STEM INNOVATION

Chichester Cinema at New Park has partnered with STEM Innovation to create the Little People, Big Screen initiative, which provides young students with a unique opportunity to create and direct their own short films. The films are then showcased at the independent cinema for the children and their families to watch on the big screen. steminnovation.co.uk

CREATIVE CHRISTMAS

This is a special time of year for families, but there’s so much more we can all do to create long-lasting memories

By SUE LAIDLAW

Idon’t know many children who don’t like Christmas. Whether you celebrate as a Christian festival or in a more general celebratory sense, it is, without doubt, a special time of the year. However, it is so easy to get caught up in plans and arrangements, in lists, and in food and presents that you miss some of the simpler (and arguably, more wholesome and worthwhile) aspects of the season. It’s also a wonderful time to build in some interesting and enjoyable family activities and perhaps create new family traditions.

I once read a book, many years ago, about building rituals into your children’s life and that of the family. These can run through the year and can be especially poignant at Christmas. One of ours was, and still is, a ectionately called “BGS” – Big Girl

Supper – each Friday evening throughout the year. Even though our daughters are all now in their twenties, they still come home and ask if we are having BGS and those Friday nights have become a staple of family life. Family traditions that each family may have at Christmas build memories and family strength throughout each child’s life. It’s never too late to add some more and enrich family history forever. When my children were very young, I had a box of seasonal and Christmas books that came out in December and were packed away again at the beginning of January. This was the source of great fun and the opportunity to be reunited with certain special books lasted for many, many years – a bit like remembering the Christmas tree decorations, as they each come out of the box, like old friends every year.

“Family traditions at Christmas build memories and family strength”

There are also endless opportunities for creative activities for all ages and tastes – printing wrapping paper, wrapping parcels, making gift tags… the list goes on and I have no doubt that you have plenty of ideas of your own.

Try to make time for some outdoor activities each day of the holidays. It certainly doesn’t need to be commercial or expensive: collect cones, holly and evergreen and make table centres, or put on your wellies and come back for hot chocolate and mince pies.

Your teenagers will probably be out and about, with friends, at parties and celebrating as well as lying in! Apart from their social lives outside the home, give them some opportunities to get involved (and find the real child within – not the sophisticated teenager). Why don’t you give them free rein of the kitchen for a celebration family meal of their choice. Alternatively, o er them the opportunity to host a dinner party for their friends, give them a budget and an opportunity to plan a menu, decorate the table – and clear up! Perhaps even o er to be waiters for the evening.

Whatever you choose to do, however you choose to celebrate, it’s an important time for each member of the family to enjoy time with friends and family, so let’s encourage each other to look for new, creative ways to share time together. It’s so important to relax and restore before the various routines start up again.

Sue Laidlaw is founder of Laidlaw Education LLP. For 30 years, Sue and her team have o ered educational advice, lessons and courses for children of all ages through their centres, including Laidlaw Hall, a specialist centre for children with Dyslexia and the Laidlaw Virtual Academy. To find out more call 020 8487 9517 or visit laidlaweducation.co.uk

PLAY TIME

The Headmaster of Windlesham House School writes about

By BEN EVANS

With the festive season now in sight, schools are starting to plan for annual shows and performances.

School performances have always been an integral part of learning and development and they are a huge part of school culture too. Live performances, in particular, can instil confidence, build resilience and foster essential learning and listening skills.

Taking to the stage has always gone hand in hand with the delight of performing to a live audience, be it parents, children, teachers and even the local community. Socially, children enjoy being part of something bigger than themselves (although for some, not necessarily being the centre of attention), so working in groups, reacting to others, dressing up in costumes, singing and dancing really does

lift the seasonal spirits and provides the fun and enjoyment that children thrive on.

Performing in front of others can improve self-esteem and self-worth, particularly if the child has confidence issues or often struggles academically in the classroom. Christmas shows are really all about allowing children to develop their performance skills and have fun. One thing is for sure, children will benefit both physically and mentally from working together to create a memorable performance this year.

BEN EVANS

Organising a school performance can also inspire self-confidence in individual pupils via supportive collaborative working and learning, not to mention promoting the ability to listen carefully, engage and follow instructions. Children will watch and learn from others via stage presence and through talking to an audience (voice projection), their general awareness, memory, reading and comprehension skills will be increased as they begin to understand the script and roles they have been given.

Performing will push some children out of their comfort zone, but there is also the reward and enjoyment of success when a performance goes well. Physical co-ordination is also a great benefit of performing at school because children will be moving about the stage, acting, creating movements while being given the ability to speak and be heard. With that in mind they will also find they learn to control their excitement and emotions too; listening skills and acting on instructions are vitally important during performances, and this involves a good level of concentration if the production is to be successful.

Performance allows children to learn in a di erent setting and teaching is therefore catering to di erent learning styles too. Rather than formal written exercises, you are still looking for comprehension skills, high-level inference and interpretation as well as listening and following instructions. All of these are essential skills, but during a performance children will learn these without even realising.

getting in on the act this Christmas

Quieter children who beaver away in the classroom may appear reticent when being asked to perform, but handled sensitively, this is an excellent opportunity for these children to be encouraged to become risk takers, to develop their resilience and ‘grit’. Some believe that performance is a soft skill because there are no pages of writing to assess, but this is a misconception. All of these valuable skills are fully transferable to the traditionally ‘academic’ subjects of maths, English and science, and will ensure greater progress and higher attainment for children across the curriculum.

We all know from our own childhood experiences that performing in front of an audience is something special and something to aspire to. It makes all of the hard work worthwhile when children see their parents’ faces in the audience and enjoy the fierce applause and admiration.

But as we reach another year end, perhaps another lesson to take away is that performance is not just for Christmas. It can and should be a regular occurrence throughout the year, be it a class-based assembly or full-blown production. That way, children have opportunities all year round to build their skills and develop confidence and self-esteem. Creating small drama groups to perform small studio performances (with or without an external audience), poetry recitals, debates and group presentations are all great ideas to keep the imagination and creativity flowing.

THE NEXT STEP

Making the move to a care home is a big decision for many families. Cheryl Tyson is the Customer Relations Manager at Walberton Place and she is dedicated to guiding people through the process of moving to a care home. Here, Cheryl shares her top tips for choosing a care home.

GET A NEEDS ASSESSME NT FROM THE LOCAL AUTHORITY

If you need financial support to a ord care, then you will need to be assessed for your eligibility for support. A needs assessment is a free of charge service carried out by the social care service department of your local authority. The aims of the assessment are to identify the needs of anyone who may need support and to suggest a support plan for that individual.

CREATE A SHORTLIST

The needs assessment will reveal the essential cares that the individual needs. That will give you the sense of the required specialist support for them. You can

narrow down the choices based on the test result as you can decide between the two main types of care home: a residential home and a nursing home. You can also refer to the Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection rating to evaluate your narrowed choices. The 4 rating levels are Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, and Inadequate. This information can be found on the care home website, the CQC website or websites such as lottie.org or seniorhomeplus.co.uk.

ASK QUESTIONS

With all the information in hand, you can still feel overwhelmed when deciding the final option. It is recommended that you visit your shortlisted homes before deciding where to move into. During the visit, you can ask as many questions as you need. Some topics you may want to know more about and discuss with the care home sta are:

• Specialist support;

• Day to day living, activity and social life in the care home;

• Facility and sta ;

• Guest and visiting policy;

• Waiting list;

• Fee and contract.

YOUR FINANCE OPTIONS

There are di erent finance options you can consider. Self–funding is when you choose to pay for your care home fee if you can a ord it. Support from a local authority (full or partial): the level of support will depend on the result of the means test (financial assessment).

UPDATE ADDRESS

Once you have chosen a care home, don’t forget to let friends and family know about the move and the new address. Also make sure that you inform others that hold the old address such as banks, phone bills etc.

• Walberton Place Care Home's Christmas Fayre will be held on on Sunday 18 December from 2pm–5pm. The fayre will boast a visit from two reindeer for visitors to meet. There will be carols from a local choir, themed games and a ra e. Refreshments will be available with a choice of mulled wine or milk and cookies on entry.

The luxury facilities at Walberton Place are often compared to a high-end hotel, while their sta get to know each resident personally, meaning everyone is looked after as part of the family. Activities and well-being are part of everyday life at the home, whether this is chair-based exercise, arts and crafts or simply chatting over a cup of tea and slice of freshly baked cake.

WALBERTON PLACE

For more information about life at Walberton Place contact Cheryl Tyson, Senior Customer Relations Manager on cheryl.tyson@countrycourtcare.com or call 07725 799 213

Choosing a care home is a huge decision for families, so we head to Walberton Place to find out what you should look out for

“The facilities are often compared to a high-end hotel”

Carefully

Calista presents a beautiful way of life, occupying a commanding position on the south-east corner of highly sought-after Grand Avenue.

With almost all of Calista’s apartments now sold our buyers are preparing to make Calista their home - waking up to glorious everchanging sea views, entertaining friends and family with al fresco dinners on their balconies and relaxing in their brand new opulent homes.

If you are searching for a relaxing, rejuvenating place to call home, get in touch with our New Homes team to make one of the remaining five apartments at Calista your new home.

Worthing Seafront

Wakehurst, Kew

The Grade I listed 16th century building is set to undergo an extensive roof restoration from late autumn 2022

Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, is set to embark on the most ambitious renovation project in its recent history. The Elizabethan mansion, built in 1571-1590 and set in the heart of the gardens, requires an extensive roof restoration to preserve the Grade I listed building, originally bequeathed to the National Trust in 1963 and entrusted to Kew in 1965, for future generations.

With building work expected to last over two years, the mansion will receive a radical facelift in the form of a newly commissioned installation from Australianborn artist, Catherine Nelson. Using photography of Wakehurst’s spectacular collections captured over the summer, Catherine will create ‘Planet Wakehurst’, a dazzling photo montage of the plants that span the 535-acre site – from the colourful blooms of the abundant Water Gardens to the towering redwoods of California in Horsebridge Wood.

Measuring over 1550m2, Catherine’s UK premiere will form the equivalent of 25 double decker buses, wrapping around three sides of the mansion. Visitors will have the chance to see beautiful species magnified in exceptional detail, o ering new perspectives on the flora that make Wakehurst so special.

Lorraine Lecourtois, Wakehurst’s Head of Public Programmes, says: “We have never embarked on a commission of such magnitude at Wakehurst before. Where some may have seen hoarding as an eyesore, we viewed this site as a unique canvas, giving us the amazing opportunity to platform Nelson’s beautifully striking work in the UK for the first time, and visitors a new perspective on the incredible range of plants we nurture at Wakehurst.

“We hope this will form a new lifea rming experience that will leave

our visitors feeling hopeful about the important conservation research we undertake here and demonstrates our intention to preserve Wakehurst’s historic heart for generations to come.”

The installation will also house a new viewing platform. Raised approximately 33ft above ground level, the lookout point will carve out a new experience for visitors to the Sussex site. Wakehurst has also ensured that the mansion’s resident bats and swifts are protected for the duration of the project. With approval from Natural England, the restoration work will be phased to account for breeding and hibernating seasons. Temporary roosts will also be created to ensure minimal disturbance and limit the impact on wildlife.

kew.org/wakehurst

why everyone is talking about…

WAKEHURST'S MANSION, JIM HOLDEN © RBG KEW

PLANET WAKEHURST SIMULATION IMAGE BY CATHERINE NELSON

PLANET WAKEHURST SIMULATION IMAGE BY CATHERINE NELSON