The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave
Bed: Sandö I Fabric: Designer´s Guild Rothesay Zinc I Carpet: Soft Greige I Bed Linen: Storm Shell I Bedside table: Holme I Headboard: Rivö I Bed legs: Reling MADE BESPOKE WITH FABRICS FROM AND
EDITOR
MARK KEBBLE
ART DIRECTOR
PAWEL KUBA
SENIOR DESIGNERS
MIKE ROBERTS SUZETTE SCOBLE
MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER JOE MUNSEY
PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE
GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER
MEDIA CONSULTANTS
LOUISE PEARSON, STELLA ADAMS
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
Ihave a close friend who teaches at a junior school in a less than salubrious area. It's fair to say he has a lot of difficult students, but what amazes me about him is that he never moans about the job.
He's part of a close circle of friends I have stayed in touch with since senior school. I always felt he was the cleverest of the bunch, but others have gone into industries that pay well and, today, are pretty high up the pecking order. This friend, though, earns considerably less, but when we get together he's the only one who doesn't lament about the job he has been lumbered with.
I find his stories of getting through to pupils really inspiring, and I truly see the fire burning bright in his eyes. On these get togethers we do talk about some of our old teachers, and boy did we have some eccentric ones – but they all left their mark on us.
That's the power of a good teacher and I am forever in awe of what they do. I won't get all political here with the current issues and strikes that are happening in the UK, but we need to look after teachers. They are the ones who will shape the future generation and it's tougher than ever to get through to the younger age group. So, this month, we have produced an education special to highlight the great work by schools and teachers. I salute them all!
Clodagh McKennaThe Molly Goddard Davina dress features all-over frills in varying sizes, cra ed from a Italian so tulle with a detachable contrasting cotton slip with a broderie anglaise trim. £2,400 mollygoddard.com
Yawn pyjamas feature a relaxed fit, deep pockets, generous hems and a collar button for cooler nights. We love the Hounds of Love set in red. £95 loveyawn.com
Is this the ultimate red dress? It could be. Somerset by Alice Temperley satin maxi dress, £110 johnlewis.com
The quest for the perfect red lip is complete. Gucci's Rouge de Beauté Brillant High-Shine Lipstick is here – and the packaging is lovely too. £36 gucci.com
10 things we Absolutely love
A warm glow for the hallway, this Stately Bouquet scented candle is designed to set the tone of your home with its calming aroma and notes of blackberries, musk and cashmere woods. £52 libertylondon.com
We love this Urban Jungle skinny silk scarf in red and hot pink, the perfect fashion accessory to gi a loved one. £50 just-add-style.com
Seal the Valentine's deal with this Platinum Pear Shape Diamond and Ruby Cross Over Fancy Ring. £2,495 berrysjewellers.co.uk
Jess De Wahls' embroidered notebooks for Moleskin feature beautiful and delicate flowers. Her work merges contemporary social issues with botanical beauty. From £550 moleskine.com
This men's sports watch from TAG Heuer has a sunray red dial with contrasting black sub dials, luminous applied hands and hour markers as well as a date display at the 4 o'clock position. £1,550 berrysjewellers.co.uk
Flats are the new stilettos! Cherry, the perfect red shoe to cheer up any outfit when you need glamour and comfort. £165 ceciliaquinn.co.uk
9 FEBRUARY
SOUTH STREET ARTS, READING
Following a successful run at the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, comedian, actress, writer, voiceover artist and podcaster Lucy Porter is set to embark on a national tour of her critically acclaimed show, ‘Wake Up Call’. This is a show about revelations, realisations and epiphaniesboth large and small. Subjects covered include bin collection schedules, the novels of Jean Rhys, cats, school fair booze tombolas, the Scottish Enlightenment, and pressure washers. lucyporter.co.uk
Here’s a chance to wander around the private parkland and woodland garden at Eythrope. Laid out as informal pleasure grounds in the mid-18th century, today the lake, ornamental rockwork, snowdrops and winter flowering shrubs create a truly inspiring winter walk. After visiting the gardens, enjoy lunch at the Five Arrows and have the chance to explore Waddesdon’s gardens.
waddesdon.org.uk
February-7
Trickster Figures: Sculpture and the Body, curated by Jes Fernie, will bring together a selection of work by 11 contemporary artists. Encompassing sculpture in its widest sense, the exhibition includes play, touch and sound. Works made from crab shells, tree roots, shopping bags, and hosiery sit alongside a dance floor and a water fountain. Visitors will be able to discover elements that change and grow. mkgallery.org
10-12 March
CHELSEA OLD TOWN HALL
One to get in the diary for March, the 2023 London Desire Fair will be held at Chelsea Old Town Hall. This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event o ers visitors the chance to purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK. Desire o ers visitors a choice of individual jewellers and contemporary silversmiths who have been selected for their innovative craftsmanship. desirefair.com
FILM
17 FEBRUARY
ODEON BRACKNELL
Superhero partners Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and the Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfei er), and Scott’s daughter Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton), the family find themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures... odeon.co.uk
Head to the Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden to celebrate all things Matilda this February half-term. Enjoy clay and junk modelling workshops with a Trunchbull twist, listen to Matilda storytelling or go on a Matilda trail around the galleries. Enjoy Crunchem Hall playground games in the courtyard or simply stu your face with pizza from pop-up experts Pizzaficio. roalddahlmuseum.org
The West End and Broadway smash hit Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - The Musical heads to Milton Keynes Theatre this month following a Christmas season at Leeds Playhouse. Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical tells the devilishly delicious tale of young golden ticket winner Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectionary wizard Willy Wonka, played here by Gareth Snook. atgtickets.com/miltonkeynes
Streets of New York at the David Hill Gallery is an exhibition of Big Apple life, as captured by five masters of their craft. The show includes work from the late 1940s through to the early 1970s, the period generally considered the golden age of street photography. Featuring exceptional photography from Werner Bischof, Mario Carnicelli, Harold Feinstein, Larry Fink, Marc Riboud. Until 3 March. davidhillgallery.net
Take home an original mini masterpiece in support of the Hepatitis C Trust from 23 February via Art on a Postcard, who is hosting its fourth International Women’s Day auction. This year they have invited seven female curators to each curate a show featuring 25 female artists. The curators include Beth Greenacre, whose clients have included David Bowie and more recently the allfemale members club Allbright, Liminal Gallery’s Louise Fitzjohn and Mollie Barnes of She Curates plus Carrie Scott, Lee Sharrock, Bakul Patki and Sandra De Giorgi. This is an opportunity to acquire a highly collectible, original artwork by a series of leading international female artists at a very reasonable price, with bidding starting at just £50. artonapostcard.com
A fresh perspective on New York and postcard perfection take centre stage
TO WATCHCARNICELLI NY NURSE'S GEAR 1966 BETHANY CZARNECKI UNTITLED, 2023 PHOTO: JOHAN PERSSON
Even as an adult, I’m excited to meet the cast of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda The Musical. The show has been playing in the West End since 2011 and its unforgettable songs are played on repeat in countless households. There’s hardly been an empty seat in the house since it opened, and now a new film is attracting even more fans – because it’s a timeless show that people of all ages return to again and again for its anarchic spirit and unique style.
Clearly, the show has a special energy behind the scenes as well. A new cast change brings Rakesh Boury and Amy Ellen Richardson to the roles of Mr and Mrs Wormwood, and they were both fans before they’d been cast. “I saw the orginal at Stratford and I remember thinking, there’s nothing else like this. I laughed, I cried,” says Richardson. We’re in the theatre’s Circle Bar in the afternoon, where tables are already set up for the children’s supper later. For them it’s a tight schedule – they spend the day at school, then rush to the theatre for the evening performance. “It’s a well-oiled machine,” says Boury.
There are currently three teams of children who perform in turns, and Boury and Richardson are blown away by their talent. “They’re so unbelievably good,” says Boury, who has four-year-old twin daughters who are deep into their Matilda fan phase. Richardson has been acting since she was 10, so seeing the children on stage reflects her own life. “What an experience it is for them,” she says. “And they’re so good that they make you up your game.”
For a long-running show, it’s unusual to have so many of the original team still involved, but Matilda The Musical is very much a passion project for pretty much
everybody. Writer Dennis Kelly, composer and lyricist Tim Minchin, director Matthew Warchus, musical director Laurie Perkins and choreographer Peter Darling have all been hands-on since the beginning, and the show adapts to each new wave of actors. “We were encouraged to bring our own interpretations to the roles,” says Richardson. “We do feel that they’re our roles, which is great when you’re taking on an existing role,” says Boury. “The team genuinely wanted us to find our own versions, which is great – I’ve done shows where they insist on you doing everything a certain way. But every Wormwood there’s ever been has been their own.”
Plainly, they both love the show and feel lucky to be part of it. “We’ve done 140 shows but we still feel like the new cast,” says Boury. And the energy comes from the audience too. “When I finish work, 1200 people applaud me. That feeling can keep you going. Just this week there was a 40-year-old man in a Matilda The Musical t-shirt standing up at the end, bawling his eyes out. It’s the power of the arts, isn’t it.” He’s right – this show stays with everyone it touches. Long may it continue.
matildathemusical.com
“A timeless show with an anarchic spirit and unique style”
What does Marlow have in common with Guadeloupe?
For Robert Thorogood, the small town on the edge of the Thames in Buckinghamshire and the collection of French islands in the Caribbean both provide the perfect backdrop for a good murder mystery.
Robert, who has lived in Marlow for almost 10 years with his wife, radio broadcaster Katie Breathwick, and their two teenage sons and whippets Wally and Evie, is the writer and creator of the hit BBC One television show Death in Paradise.
The family-friendly detective crime series, which has been entertaining audiences across the globe since 2011 and began its 12th series in January 2023, is now shown in over 200 countries around the world and is one of the BBC’s biggest commercial successes. But it took Robert, who went to Cambridge University and was part of the Footlights ensemble with David
By REBECCA PITCAIRNMitchell, Robert Webb and Oscar-winner Olivia Colman, years of hard graft and disappointment before he got his big break.
“As a screenwriter, you’d have good years and then really bad years, but it was completely piecemeal, you couldn’t make any plans on it – it was really hard,” remembers the 51-year-old, who worked as a secretary in London to supplement his screenwriting income before his big break. “So, following 16 years of really scraping the barrel, it went from 0 to 100 pretty much overnight.”
The popularity of Death in Paradise not only enabled Robert to finally earn a decent, regular scriptwriter’s wage, but it also gave him the opportunity to follow his dream of becoming a novelist. “Novels have always been my first love, particularly murder mystery,” he says. “I’ve loved it my whole life, ever since I read my first Agatha Christie novel, Peril at End House, when I was ten.”
Robert’s first four books follow Death in Paradise’s original on-screen detective, DI Richard Poole (played by Ben Miller), in a spin-o series, which sees the detective tackle yet more murders on the fictional
Caribbean island of Saint Marie.
“I was not a very successful teenager when it came to academics and I didn’t really do well at English, so I thought ‘I’ve got to learn how to write and how to write murder mysteries’, which sounds absurd when I’d written them for TV but it is very di erent,” Robert explains. “Because I knew the Death in Paradise characters inside out, I thought that if I do a DI Poole mystery, at least I’ll know the setting, the characters and the dynamics.”
But the Brits love nothing more than a good murder mystery and so it was somewhat inevitable that Robert might one day bring murder a little closer to home –and he landed it right on his doorstep.
The Marlow Murder Club series follows 77-year-old Judith Potts, who lives on her own in a faded mansion just outside Marlow, keeping herself busy setting crosswords for The Times newspaper and taking the occasional dip in the Thames. When one night while out swimming she witnesses the murder of her neighbour across the river, it sparks a series of events that see no-nonsense Judith joined by two other local women – Suzie, a
Novelist and TV scriptwriter Robert Thorogood talks Death in Paradise and why he chose his Buckinghamshire home town as the backdrop for his latest cosy crime mystery
dog walker, and the vicar’s wife, Becks – to try and solve the mystery of ‘whodunnit’.
“Marlow is the perfect place for the style of murder mystery I like because, on the surface, it’s quite posh, it has bunting, Michelin-starred restaurants and a beautiful church. It just looks so smart. Then you peel away at the layers of all that pretention and reveal that actually everyone has a dark heart of murder within,” Robert explains. “That’s what Agatha Christie was so great at doing, she’d take you to a very smart country house and show all of these people who you thought of as being your betters, but then you’d discover, during the course of the book, that they were much worse than all of us.”
While the main protagonists fighting crime in Death in Paradise have all been men (alongside Ben Miller, the lead detective has been played by Kris Marshall, Ardal O’Hanlonand Ralf Little), Robert says it was important for his Marlowbased sleuths to be women and drew on characteristics of his own family members to create his new team of crime fighters.
“I’d been in this world of male detectives for so long and I just wanted to do something that was far more conversational,” he explains. “I wanted to do a love letter to all these wonderful women who helped raise me. From my mother to my great aunts to my grandmother, who were all very eccentric women and much brighter than their husbands.”
Robert adds that he wanted the heroines of his novels to investigate matters “the old-fashioned way”. “They solve the murders without reference to any forensics or post mortems or the science that goes behind it all,” he says. “It’s proper old-fashioned Agatha Christie, walking around a town and solving the crime by talking to people.”
Death Comes to Marlow, the second book in the series, sees the trio jump into action again when one of the town’s VIPs, Sir Peter Bailey, is killed during a party at his mansion on the Thames, which,
BY MARLOW BRIDGE
Robert tells me, is based on the home of a rather famous Buckinghamshire comedian.
“I’ve taken Ricky Gervais’ house, which is a beautiful Georgian white stucco house just outside Marlow, as the idea for the setting and imagined a very posh family living there and written an old school, country house, locked-room murder mystery,” he says.
It’s not just Marlow’s rich and famous who have had an influence on Robert’s cosy crime novels either. “Fred, our postie, when he found out I was writing a book set in Marlow, he insisted he be in it and I knew if I didn’t then he’d stop delivering our post and you really don’t want to cross your postie,” Robert jokes. “So, one of the main characters in the first book is a postman called Fred Smith. At the moment I’m having to deal with the fact that he’s quite cross that I haven’t put him in book two, but I am writing book three and Fred is back because I can’t handle his disappointment.”
While setting the books in a real town, rather than somewhere fictional like his TV series, has its merits – “for research I literally just have to step out my front door,” Richard professes – there are some minor challenges.
“I did a talk at Marlow Rotary Club about the first book and when I asked for questions at the end, all I got was grief about the few changes I’d made to the geography of the town,” he says. “I’ve kept it 95% correct, but in order to put Judith’s house where I wanted it, I’ve had to put it where there isn’t an access road. And I know I’m going to get grief for book two as well because I’ve set part of it at the local radio station, Marlow FM, which I’ve had to relocate. So, it is funny setting something in your own town, but it’s also lovely because Marlow really is quite wonderful.”
Comes to Marlow is published by HQ Harper Collins and is out now in hardback RRP £16.99
Q What has been your writing journey up to this point?
A I’ve written for as long as I can remember, and I decided to be an author when I was about eight-years-old. I had dozens of notebooks that I would carry around with me in which I’d write my “novels” – at one point, I even sent a ten-page manuscript (in size 20 font) to a publisher. I got a very polite reply saying they weren’t accepting submissions at that time, along with some cute branded stationery.
I went on to study English and Creative Writing at university, where I found an interest in screenwriting, but I found myself stepping away from fiction for a long time.
I rediscovered my love for writing fiction – especially romantic fiction – a few years after graduation by posting short stories online. It was the community I found online that really made my writing flourish, and I’m forever grateful for their support and love.
Q What did winning the Mills & Boon and RNA Romance Includes Everyone competition in 2021 mean to you?
A Winning the competition was a complete dream come true. The win has changed the trajectory of my writing career and thrown me into publishing in a way that I never thought would be possible. On a wider level, it’s also shown me that there’s a real demand for queer romantic fiction. I’ve always wanted to write queer romance, but was worried that there might not be a space for me – now I know how wrong I was. I’m thrilled to be a part of this ever-growing genre, and I cannot wait to see what comes next for me and other queer writers.
Q How long has One Night in Hartswood been in the making and what inspired it?
A Hartswood had been percolating in my head for a year or so before I actually wrote it down. It changed an awful lot during the writing process too, as the characters took over the story and made it their own.
I’m a huge fan of fantasy and historical romance, and a lot of Hartswood comes from the sorts of tropes and topics you find in those genres. Things like Lord of the Rings, The Witcher and Game of Thrones –high fantasy media set in pseudo-medieval society – really got me interested in sword fights, knights in shining armour and outdoor excursions. I can’t resist a good dagger fight, or huddling for warmth beneath the stars next to a campfire.
Q What can you tell us about the storyline?
A One Night in Hartswood follows Penn and Ra as they journey north through Hartswood forest and, inevitably, fall in love.
Penn – whose given name is William – is escaping his cruel father, arranged marriage and his own earldom when he’s found by Ra in the middle of Hartswood Forest. Ra assumes that Penn is a fleeing
servant, and Penn assumes Ra is a hunter who is visiting the keep with his own master for the wedding. Little do they know that Ra is in fact the brother of the woman Penn is supposed to be marrying, hunting for his sister’s missing groom.
Ra understands Penn’s desire for freedom, wishing to be free of his own duties, too, so o ers Penn his help in escaping. As they travel together, the tentative relationship between them flourishes into something more, despite both of them doing their best to resist. But, of course, secrets cannot stay secret forever, and when all is revealed they’re both forced to decide what they want, and what they will sacrifice for the person they love.
Q How long have you lived in Bracknell and what do you love most about it?
A I moved to Bracknell last year, so I’ve been here for around 18 months now. My favourite thing about Bracknell is how I’ve got so many lovely places to walk to right on my doorstep. I work from home, so being able to get outside and find a bit of nature to get lost in is really important to me.
I particularly love Swinley Forest – I live a stone’s throw away from the edge of the trees, and it’s the first place I take people who come to visit. I particularly love walking up to Caesar's Camp on summer evenings to look for deer and owls.
Q Where would your three favourite places in Berkshire be?
A Two of my favourite places in Berkshire are probably Swinley Forest, which I’ve already spoken about, and South Hill Park Arts Centre, which has a gorgeous little cinema and does some great workshops and art classes. I attended a silversmithing workshop there last year which was a lot of fun, and I made a Hartswood ring too!
I’m also a huge fan of craft beer, and it’s impossible to choose just one of our many amazing breweries for this list (Wild Weather? Double Barrelled? Elusive?) – so the third choice would probably be the Grumpy Goat in Reading. This amazing little shop sells top-notch beer and cheese and I always pop in whenever I’m in the area.
Q What else are you looking forward to in 2023?
A Mostly I’m looking forward to relaxing! Since winning the competition, life has been very hectic, and I’m looking forward to finally sitting down and taking a long, deep breath once Hartswood has hit the shelves. After that, I can really start to look forward to what comes next. This year is the start of my career as a published author, and I’m excited to see what it brings.
One Night in Hartswood is out now, published by Mills & Boon and priced at £14.99 hardback
Henley Festival Presented by Westcoast has revealed this year’s sensational line-up, featuring five unmissable summer nights packed full of worldclass music, comedy, dining, dancing and magical moments. Westcoast are excited to continue their long association with Henley Festival in 2023.
From Wednesday 5 July to Sunday 9 July, the UK’s only boutique black-tie festival will present an unforgettable experience on the stunning riverside in Henley-on-Thames.
Henley Festival is truly like no other, with a vibrant line-up of pop, world, classical, folk and jazz music sitting alongside awardwinning comedy, visual art and sculpture installations on the
green banks of the Thames, and first-class gastronomy. Festival goers will be enchanted late into the night by this captivating programme of music and arts – with each evening coming to an epic close with a jaw-dropping firework spectacular.
As part of Henley Festival’s new charitable programme nurturing the next generation of talent – RISE – this year’s festival will give a platform for young musicians, comedians and visual artists taking their first steps on stage, as well as o ering opportunities for young people aspiring to work behind the scenes.
Opening this year’s Henley Festival on the iconic Floating Stage is Rag'n'Bone Man, with his characteristic blend of traditional blues and hip hop, and powerfully deep baritone voice. Rory Graham’s stratospheric rise to fame saw him win the
BRIT’s ‘British Breakthrough Act’ and ‘Critics’ Choice Award’ in 2017, followed by the record-breakingrelease of his4x platinum #1 debut album Human. Rag'n'Bone Man has since collaborated with international artists including Gorillaz, Logic, Calvin Harris and Pink, and last year his second #1 album Life by Misadventure spent 7 weeks in the Top 10.
Henley Festival’s first night will be brought to an energetic ending by Ben Portsmouth: This is Elvis, and his jaw-dropping tribute to The King of Rock and Roll, invoking the Henley Festival Club with the spirit of Elvis.
On Thursday, the Floating Stage will host Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Mark Feehily, aka the most successful Irish boyband of all time: Westlife. With 36 #1 albums worldwide, Westlife are the UK’s top selling group of the 21st century. They are one of pop music’s most influential boy bands and have sold six million concert tickets worldwide and counting. Westlife will thrill the Henley crowd with their chart-topping hits including Flying Without Wings, World of Our Own and Uptown Girl
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee and a multiple Grammy Award winning songwriter, composer, producer, arranger, guitarist and music legend, Nile Rodgers, will headline on Friday. As the co-founder of CHIC, Rodgers pioneered a musical language that generated chart-topping hits like Le Freak, the biggest selling single in the history of Atlantic Records. His work in the CHIC Organization including We Are Family with Sister Sledge and I’m Coming Out with Diana Ross, and his productions for artists like David Bowie (Let’s Dance), Madonna (Like A Virgin) and Duran Duran (The Reflex), have sold over 500 million albums and 100 million singles worldwide.
On Saturday night, the Floating Stage crowd will be on their feet as Ministry of Sound Classical takes on the very best tunes hand-picked from dance music history and recreates them in a breath-taking performance by an incredible 30-piece orchestra. The beautiful riverside backdrop will
set the scene for a live music spectacle, featuring guest DJ Danny Rampling and stunning vocalists performing classical remakes of iconic dance anthems including Fatboy Slim’s Right Here, Right Now and The Chemical Brothers’ Hey Boy Hey Girl – alongside a sound and light experience like no other.
The final evening – ‘Sunday Night Sessions’ – will reflect the breadth and depth of this unique festival, with something to entertain the tastes of all culture vultures. Following an inspirational Chamber Music performance by family string ensemble The Kanneh-Mason Trio in the Spiegel Tent – who have wowed audiences since their semi-final success on Britain’s Got Talent in 2015 – the euro-disco phenomenon Boney M. with the original lead singer Liz Mitchell are back by popular demand, performing international chartbusters with a 15-piece band as the sun goes down on The Floating Stage and this year’s phenomenal edition of Henley Festival. Stay tuned for further line-up details for ‘Sunday Night Sessions’.
Once again, Henley Festival looks like being the must-visit on the cultural calendar. henley-festival.co.uk
“The final evening will reflect the breadth and depth of this unique festival”WESTLIFE RAG'N'BONE MAN PHOTO: HARRIET BOLS
Announcing a new Rare Pairing series, Rare Champagne have enlisted top French chef, Mélanie Serre, to create new menus for the season. "I am delighted to explore, discover, create and compose menus for which I had a carte blanche," she says on the partnership. Turn to p43 to discover what she created in the kitchen. rare-champagne.com
Andrew Peace Signature Shiraz, Australia £6
This smooth, fullbodied, sunshine-filled Aussie red wine is blended from Shiraz with a touch of Tempranillo, bringing you typical ripe black fruit flavours with a hint of cherry. It would pair excellently with sweet red stu ed peppers. coop.co.uk
Champagne Lanson Bio-Organic, France £59
Le Green Label Organic is made with grapes from Domaine de la Malmaison, and is the only Champagne to have achieved every organic and biodynamic certification. It is the perfect expression of the terroir: direct, pure with a wonderful vitality. thechampagnecompany.com
Plum & Pepper Barossa Valley Shiraz, Australia £14.99
This delicious Shiraz is rich and warming, with beautiful black fruit, leather and oak complexity. It is also brilliantly mature with layers of flavours opening out in the glass and would be perfect with a hearty winter vegetable casserole. majestic.co.uk
The Hand and Flowers, Tom Kerridge’s two Michelin-starred pub in Marlow, has launched a special midweek, two-night package for guests where the second night is half price. The Two-Night Break package starts from £442.50 for two people and includes a two-night stay with breakfast at The Hand and Flowers on both mornings. Guests can enjoy one of the 15 beautifully appointed rooms, available Mondays to Thursdays only, until 30 April 2023.
Show your Valentine what true love is with the show stopping bakery collection at Patisserie Valerie, available at their High Wycombe location. Highlights include the Valentine’s Patisserie Box for those who want to try a little bit of everything - the box includes two mini red velvet cakes, two mini black forest cakes, six creamy chocolate tru es and four pink macarons. patisserie-valerie.co.uk
FAIRMONT WINDSOR PARK
Modern elegance meets countryside charm at Fairmont Windsor Park. Set within an impressive 40 acres of open green space, the grand hotel provides the perfect setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day stay. The hotel has curated three memorable Valentine’s themed packages. fairmont-windsorpark.com
For Valentine’s Day food, you can’t beat Niederegger marzipan, established in Germany in 1806. Marzipan is thought to be an aphrodisiac, so a perfect little treat to gi your loved one. Stocked in John Lewis, Reading. johnlewis.com
This Valentine’s Day, Biscuiteers has launched a new Art of Love collection. This vibrant and colourful collection is perfect for gi ing that special someone. Inspired by modern art, the eye-catching collection makes a gorgeous gi . biscuiteers.com
Fill your belly with delicious food and fill your heart with a romantic mood, plus keep your wallet a bit fuller too! Enjoy a romantic three course dinner with a glass of fizz for just £78 per couple in Horwood House’s Harry’s Bar & Kitchen on Saturday 11 or Tuesday 14 February. Oh, and they’ll serenade you with live music too!
horwoodhouse.co.uk/dining
The Oarsman, a contemporary bistropub and wine bar in the heart of Marlow, paid homage to the ancient tradition of wassailing in January with local orchards Harrow & Hope and Woodfine, o ering a speciallycurated pairing menu celebrating the great British apple. This tradition of celebrating food and harvest historically brought families and local communities together - a notion that also lies at the heart of The Oarsman, and similarly, at the very heart of the hospitality industry. theoarsman.co.uk
The famed Windsor chocolate factory will be holding a special Valentine’s workshop and drinks for two, a unique opportunity for couples to experience chocolate making and play with edible flavours. drchocs.com
Celebrated Chef Chris Wheeler returns to Buckinghamshire to delight customers with his new venture. Absolutely finds out more
Chris Wheeler, former Executive Chef of Stoke Park in Buckinghamshire for nearly 20 years, will be taking over The Crown Inn at Farnham Common, which will be o cially opening on Saturday 4 February 2023.
The newly named “Chris Wheeler at The Crown Inn” will have something for everyone on the new menu – from bar snacks and small plates, to classic British dishes and fine dining experiences. This venue was chosen for the new venture as it allows the mix of personal and business to smoothly fuse. Life is a new balance where it is key to bring a service and this concept like no other in the local area for all to experience.
On the opening, Chris says: “I am very excited to be opening Chris Wheeler at
The Crown! We have an amazing team, a great atmosphere and tantalising dishes ready to serve to our customers. My philosophy is to serve high-quality food in a comfortable and homely setting accompanied by excellent service.”
Chris hopes that his return to the Buckinghamshire food scene will be a triumphant one, and that The Crown Inn will become the beating heart of food in the local area. The Crown Inn aspires to be a hub for foodies, business meetings, private functions and weddings. An events calendar will be coming soon and will feature set menus, themed nights and a farmers’ market.
Local businessman Russell Allen joins Chris Wheeler as co-owner of The Crown Inn. Russell says that “living in the area The Crown was always my local, and I could see its fantastic potential not only in the magnificent building (the cellar used
to be the local courthouse!), its stunning location and outside space, but also its role and 250 year heritage of serving the community. We are thrilled to be teaming up with Chris, who I have known and admired for many years, to take The Crown to the next level and once again become the beating heart of a vibrant community, and an Inn for all occasions.”
In addition, the “Chris Wheeler at Home” empire will be expanding further and providing a fine dining experience directly into your home or business. Being ahead of the curve, this business has been pivoted to create an innovative experience wherever you may be located. Details will be announced soon as to how you can get the Chris Wheeler fine dining experience in the comfort of your own home.
Trained alongside Jean-Christophe Novelli, over the past 30 years Chris Wheeler has beenwowing guests with his innovative cuisine and creative flair. From being the right-hand man to Novelli, to heading up the kitchens for almost 20 years at the multi award-winning Stoke Park in Buckinghamshire, Chris’s ability to create exquisite, mouth-watering dishes has won much praise from both the international media and the many guests who have enjoyed his food over the years.
In 2016 he was named the Hotel Chef of the Year (over 250 covers) at the prestigious Hotel Cateys and has entertained millions on Saturday Kitchen, Sunday Brunch and Great British Menu. In 2018 he released his debut cookbook, The Ginger Chef ‘Served Up’, which features over 65 recipes to suit all appetites.
Chris’s years of knowledge and multi award-winning expertise in the gastronomic industry will be the star of the show at The Crown Inn.
A fresh vision. A personal approach.
A respect for nature’s calendar.
A passion for stories. A sense of nostalgia.
is flaked o and mixed with Dijon mustard and salt. It is then portioned and dusted in flour, washed in egg yolks and then panéed in panko breadcrumbs and deep fried. A piece of crackling dressed the dish, with a side of chicory, pickled with a pickling liqueur for 48 hours. It was amazing.
The main dish, again chosen by both of us, was the 30 Day Dry Aged Beef with Peppercorn Sauce, Bone Marrow Fritter and Café de Paris Butter, and came with a side of kale. The beef was cooked to perfection, a beautiful pink inside to complement the darker exterior. Perfection in terms of flavour and texture on the tongue.
When it came to dessert, we both enjoyed the opportunity to ‘share’ and tucked into the two di erent options, both of which were a suitably excellent way to cap o lunch.
By ABI GARDNERMarlow boasts a number of Tom Kerridge’s restaurants, the original being the well known two-Michelin starred The Hand and Flowers. This ‘must visit’ location has just launched a lunch time special, a set menu available Monday to Thursday, where you have two options: three courses for £46.50 or two courses for £39. Whatever you choose, you will certainly be impressed.
Created by Head Chef Tom De Keyser, the menu showcases seasonality and the wonderful produce that has been sourced from trusted suppliers, prepared with
love and care. Comprising two choices per course, the options include Crispy Pig’s Head with Jerusalem Artichoke Purée, Red Wine Poached Pear and Oat Crumble, 30 Day Dry Aged Beef with Peppercorn Sauce, Café De Paris Butter and Potato Cracker, and Warm Pistachio Cake with Dark Chocolate Sorbet and Pink Grapefruit.
It’s been a while since my last visit and I had forgotten the surprise ‘pre-starter’ of the signature home-made sausage roll – a favourite that will tantalise your taste buds as you await your selected dishes.
My guest and I both chose the ‘Pig’s Head’ starter. The pig’s head is braised for 5-6 hours as a whole, and once cooked the meat
Taking into consideration that we chose to visit on a dull, grey, Monday afternoon in January, we were pleasantly surprised to feel the atmosphere within as soon as we entered. It was busy, but not overly so, warm and welcoming. The sta were attentive and seemed to have a sixth sense for when we may require a water top up or, in fact, just to answer any questions. Their knowledge of the menu was unquestionable and relayed with confidence and experience.
The menu is set to be refreshed throughout the year o ering the optimum opportunity to experience a variety of dishes if, like us, you plan to visit more than once. With the a la carte menu renowned at The Hand and Flowers, this exciting lunch time o er gives the Head Chef a platform to express both creativity and flair, and showcase seasonal and local produce. We can’t wait to see what he comes up with next
This o er can be booked online at thehandandflowers.co.uk or by calling 01628 482277
Take one globally acclaimed chef, pair with Rare Champagne, and you have recipes that will dazzle and delight
Rare Champagne o ers carte blanche to chefs whose talent reveals a diamond in the rough, fresh and with an exceptional future ahead. Now, Rare Champagne has entrusted chef Mélanie Serre with their new Rare Pairings series.
In Megève, St. Barts, Monaco, and Paris, chef Serre approaches her work with a joyous heart, while creating tailormade dishes that show a deep respect for the terroir and nature. Because of her philosophy, Rare Champagne have entrusted chef Serre with this new Rare Pairings series. Rare Champagne allows her to explore her creativity, linked to each of the Rare Champagne Millésimes, for a unique sensory experience. Chef Serre, a Gault & Millau Young Talent Award winner, is also listed among the “1,000 Women Chefs who Count in the World” and is one of the six French female chefs recognized for their personality, as much as their culinary art, by Le Parisien magazine. Serre’s first position was as chef at Atelier Etoile Joël Robuchon, a two-star Michelin restaurant in Paris, where she became executive chef one year later. She now o ciates at Louis Vins restaurant, near Notre Dame in Paris.
Her Rare Rosé Millésime 2012 spring/ summer menu features: Razor clams in parsley sauce with pine nuts and basil for an amuse bouche; Fresh tomato soup with black cherry, goat's cheese ice-cream and crushed pistachios as a starter; a vegan course of salad of green beans with raspberries, almonds and date vinaigrette; fillet of red mullet with edible scales, young courgette and bouillabaisse sauce for mains; and a dessert course that is featured right.
rare-champagne.com
• Water
• Sugar
• Vanilla
• Fresh basil cinnamon
• Speculoos biscuits
• Fresh forest fruit
1 Prepare a syrup with water, sugar, basil and the stick of cinnamon;
2 Prepare the Speculoos biscuit paste and cook. While still hot, shape it as desired;
3 Wash, sort and prepare the forest fruit;
4 Place the forest fruit on a plate. Once cold, add the syrup and the basil;
5 Add some Speculoos biscuits to the side of the plate. Place the rest on the sliced forest fruit.
Chopard presents a new collection with My Happy Hearts, a constellation of dainty hearts to be worn alone or stacked as stylish accessories. They are discreet emblems of an emancipated generation, and the hallmark of a reinvented relationship with oneself. My Happy Hearts is a gift that we give ourselves, kind and nurturing, like a gentle bubble.
The collection follows its most famous design codes – the heart and the dancing diamonds – from the Maison’s legendary creations, played out in new proportions.
Explore the collection at Berry’s Windsor and berrysjewellers.co.uk
From sparkling diamonds and pearls, to elegant luxury timepieces, there is a glittering gift that is sure to unlock the heart of your love at Berry's Jewellers this Valentine’s Day
£5,050
£2,895
Valentine’s Day is that special time of year when we show our loved ones just how much they mean to us, but it can be di cult to find the perfect gift that will truly express your love and appreciation. If you are looking for something extra special this Valentine’s Day, why not consider a specially crafted piece of jewellery or a luxury watch? Finding that perfect gift can be daunting at first, but with some thoughtful consideration and assistance from a specialist, you can find an exquisite piece that will not only provide a sound long-term investment, but will also be appreciated for years to come.
Family-owned, independent luxury jeweller Berry’s highlights here a few select pieces from their extensive range to pique your interest and give you a nudge towards the perfect gift. But to really make sure you find ‘the one’ this Valentine season, a visit to one of the nine Berry’s boutiques across the UK is a must, with a location in Windsor.
18CT WHITE GOLD FANCY DIAMOND BRACELET, £3,895
£3,405
At Berry’s they have had the privilege to bring the very finest pieces to their customers for decades, and with their exquisite range of luxury jewellery and spectacular collections from worldrenowned brands, their knowledgeable sta can guide you to the perfect match.
Berry’s jewellery specialist, Sally Hill, says: “It definitely pays to do your homework when seeking out the perfect gift. Think about the recipient's individual style and personality – do they tend towards minimalist or statement pieces? Do they prefer white, rose or yellow gold? Do they adore diamonds or are coloured stones more their preference?
“It’s worth noting that diamonds are of course the most popular to give as a Valentine’s gift,” Sally adds, “but this is not just because they are stunningly beautiful, they have also long been considered to be symbols of strength, passion, and lasting commitment – all things necessary for a happy relationship.
“If diamonds are not your loved one’s style, consider other precious stones such as rubies, sapphires, emeralds and pearls. These colourful gems are also said to represent qualities such as courage, loyalty and wisdom – again, perfect messages when it comes to expressing true love. Once you have considered all these elements, there are a plethora of options available from Berry’s own luxury jewellery collections or one of
TISSOT TRADITION OPEN HEART 40MM MEN’S WATCH, £650
their leading brands such as Chopard, Cartier, Fope, Bvlgari, Mikimoto or Georg Jensen.”
If you are looking for something totally unique, Berry’s also provide a bespoke jewellery design service. Their in-house designers will help you turn your ideas and inspiration into a beautiful piece of jewellery that will be unique and hand-finished to the highest possible standard. They can re-fashion your existing jewellery or create a completely new piece from scratch and if you already have an idea or design in mind, they can recreate this to ensure you have the style that you are looking for and your loved one will adore.
Whatever item you eventually decide upon, if you enlist the help of Berry’s Jewellers in that decision, not only can you be assured that your loved one will receive a beautifully crafted, high-quality gift that oozes devotion, but they will also gain a timeless reminder of your love for one another that will last far beyond 14 February.
berrysjewellers.co.uk
Be ready for the month of love with a splash of vibrant colour courtesy of Roman Originals' stores in Aylesbury and Newbury
CrownWood Dental, an established Bracknell dentist for over 20 years, welcomes all new and existing patients. They specialise in affordable, flexible and top quality dental care that is accessible for both private and NHS patients. Inside on page 61, they highlight the many benefits of teeth whitening.
PEMFiT Reading’s studio owner, Nick Elvery, reveals the life-changing benefits of PEMF, including which people typically respond best and why he loves what he does
A Wellness has been my passion for 25 years. Before opening the only dedicated PEMFiT studio in the south of England, I worked as a performance coach to CEOs and executives, trained in cognitive hypnotherapy and NLP, and qualified as a personal trainer. I’m also an avid gymgoer and enjoy indoor climbing.
A Seeing how the technology could work synergistically with my performance coaching was really exciting – it was the logical next step to help my clients live more energetic and productive lives. PEMF is popular in America and has been used by NASA astronauts and elite athletes for years. I’m proud to be making it readily accessible to the UK public.
A Predominantly, it helps people who are living with pain, whether that’s chronic pain or pain stemming from an injury. By increasing the blood flow to targeted areas, PEMF accelerates the body’s natural healing process. It can also help with low energy and brain fog – and improve sleep, which is crucial for optimal wellbeing. We use premium technology imported from the leading manufacturer in America to ensure the best results.
Q Who responds best to PEMF?
A PEMF recharges our cells and helps
us function at our best, which makes it a powerful tool for most human beings. It’s also a great option for anyone seeking natural, non-surgical pain relief. Many of my clients struggled with pain for a long time and had explored every avenue before finally finding success with PEMF.
A I take great pleasure in seeing my clients get back out there doing what they love, whether that’s playing golf or walks with friends and family – things we often take for granted. Making a real di erence to people’s quality of life gives me a profound sense of purpose.
Q Tell us about your brand new studio space in Berkshire...
A We’ve recently moved to a beautiful
Grade II listed building with lift access, plenty of parking and lovely grounds. The studio itself has been designed with relaxation in mind, with a relaxed environment with soothing music. Most clients fall asleep during their session!
Q How do you book a session?
A Call me for a free taster session. Limited spaces available for people with an urgent need only.
PEMFIT
nick@pemfit.co.uk, 07885 979 166 pemfit.co.uk/pemfit-reading (*PEMFiT is non-medical and does not diagnose, treat or cure disease)
“PEMF helps with chronic pain and injury recovery”
By RACHEL HOGG
We’re buzzing about the new Honeymoon Glow Resurfacing Night Serum from the clean beauty brand Farmacy. Made from only the cleanest ingredients taken straight from nature, this powerful three-inone product will work to resurface, rehydrate, and clarify your skin while you sleep, £55. farmacybeauty.com
Hyaluronic Acid is a miracle chemical that helps your skin stay plump and hydrated. It is naturally produced in our body, however as we age our natural production begins to slow, so in steps RoC’s new range. It’s made up of three products; a serum, a moisturiser and an eye cream, all formulated to replenish your skin’s natural levels of Hyaluronic Acid, from £24.99. rocskincare.co.uk
A drop in temperature usually doesn’t bode well for those with eczema-prone skin, so Beauty Kin has created a new product to help them survive the winter months. Their Soothing Bar is made of natural moisturising ingredients, making it the perfect solution for anyone wanting to avoid harsh chemicals, £9.95. beautykin.com
As the ultimate ‘In Skin Health For Life’, HydraFacial is the only treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection simultaneously, for healthy, clear and revitalised skin. Regularly used by celebrities and people in the public eye, HydraFacials provide more youthful looking skin and make you feel great about your appearance. What’s more, it is non-invasive, virtually painless and very safe. The HydraFacial treatment is suitable for women and men of all skin tones and types, whether oily skin, normal skin, sensitive skin, dry skin or a combination of di erent skin types. HydraFacial treatment, available at the deluxe CrownWood MediSpa clinic at Crown Row, Crown Wood, Bracknell, can address many skin concerns and is commonly used to improve fine lines and wrinkles, elasticity and firmness, even tone and vibrancy, skin texture, brown spots, congested and oily skin, smile lines, enlarged pores and mild and medium types of acne. Patients at CrownWood have warmly welcomed the instant, stunning and long-lasting results.
If you’d like to discuss your options or book a HydraFacial, then call Lisa Bonello, the Patient Care Co-Ordinator, on 01344 300 417 or 07765 333 768 or email her at pc@crownwooddental.co.uk
It has been the case for several years that more and more people have been using professional teeth whitening services to enhance their smiles, but did you know that whiter teeth can do so much more than make your pearly whites even whiter?
So, what are the benefits of teeth whitening? A dazzling, white smile can have a huge impact on someone’s first impression of you. Let’s face it, if you see a friendly person showing a genuine smile, you’re more likely to assume that he or she is trustworthy. Showing a bright smile displays happiness, confidence and positive feelings.
Professional teeth whitening enhances your appearance. You might have the healthiest teeth, but if you’re an avid co ee drinker or regular red wine drinker, these habits can lead to teeth staining over time. You may look good in photos with an Instagram filter, but in reality, you have the disadvantages of yellow or stained teeth.
It boosts your self-confidence. Selfesteem increases if people are confident about how they look and this extra confidence can work wonders and help you in your career, university and college life as well as your personal life. A new whiter smile can help you gain more confidence when socialising with others.
There are clinical benefits too. Teeth whitening helps kill bacteria. Since the treatment basically removes the
stains on the outer layer of the teeth, it also eliminates harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar build-up. Despite this positive benefit of teeth whitening, for ongoing oral health your dentist will always recommend regular dental examinations and visits to the hygienist.
Better oral hygiene and health. People who have experienced getting professional whitening treatments are more inclined to take care of their teeth than those who do not. Seeing their new sparkling smile encourages people to maintain their teeth’s newfound whiteness. As part of a healthier dental routine, they tend to floss and brush their teeth more often.
Teeth whitening is a safe, non-evasive, clinical alternative to porcelain veneers and dental crowns, o ering a complete smile makeover. One of the biggest misconceptions about teeth whitening is that it causes damage to teeth and some people believe the procedure can a ect the tooth enamel, making you more sensitive to cold and hot foods. However, teeth
whitening should only be performed by a dentist or regulated dental professional, such as a dental hygienist or dental therapist, on the prescription of a dentist. At CrownWood Dental, based at their modern clinic in Bracknell, all options are explained to their patients before they start a teeth whitening treatment.
To help keep this treatment as a ordable as possible, CrownWood keeps its whitening prices competitive and as a special o er for February only, patients can save 15%* on Boutique Home Whitening (normally £350, now £297), an award winning treatment.
To book an appointment at CrownWood Dental, people are invited to call Lisa Bonello, the Patient Care Co-Ordinator, on 01344 300 417 or 07765 333 768 or email her at pc@crownwooddental.co.uk. For more information on the teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry options at CrownWood Dental, go to crownwooddental.co.uk (*15% discount applies to full treatment price only. Cannot be applied to the reduced Member Only price)
Why teeth whitening is more than just improving your smile
“A bright smile displays happiness and confidence”TEETH WHITENING CAN BOOST YOU IN SO MANY WAYS
The Hair Dr Clinic is a private bespoke clinic specialising in hair diagnostic and hair restoration services. They o er the most up-to-date and state-of-the-art treatments including both surgical and non-surgical options. They can assist in both male and female pattern hair loss as well other forms of alopecia. Their clinic o ers a holistic and bespoke hair treatment and restoration service by precisely identifying their clients’ goals and expectations. As a result of this, they will always give you advice and treatment that is in your best interest.
The Hair Dr Clinic sets high standards to ensure natural hair transplant results are achieved. From the aesthetic skills and use of advanced surgical and non-surgical techniques to strict protocols and strong ethics to understanding personal goals and expectations complemented with the attention to detail, planning and design.
As a result, the Hair Dr consistently achieves natural hair growth ensuring the long-term happiness of all of their clients.
The Hair Dr is dedicated to delivering the highest standard in each and every aspect of your hair restoration experience.
As an Independent CQC registered medical clinic, they comply with required medical and patient care standards, imposing their own exacting protocols over and above these to deliver the best service possible for their clients.
Wanting a healthy, strong head of hair is natural, because of this hair loss can be an emotive issue. Sometimes, emotions can cloud good judgement, hence it’s important to take your time
before making a decision. There are many good reasons to choose the Hair Dr Clinic. As true experts in hair restoration they recognise how personal hair loss can be and the e ects it can have on your life.
Reasons why you should choose the Hair Dr:
• All their treatments are carried out by GMC and ISHRS (International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons) registered doctors who have extensive experience and have been independently verified.
• One patient per day assurance – this allows them to deliver a bespoke and personalised service.
• They provide round the clock post procedural care and advice ensuring you achieve the best outcome possible.
• They use only the most up-to-date and state-of-the-art equipment and technology to achieve the best results for you.
• They o er free in person or virtual consultations to better understand your requirements and to provide you with a bespoke plan.
Get in touch today to arrange a free consultation with one of their expert doctors and let them restore your smile as well as your hairline. Call 0800 052 0021 or visit hairdr.co.uk
DRUNK ELEPHANT O-Bloos™
Rosi Drops, £31 drunkelephant.co.uk
ERE PEREZ
Coco Crayon, £23.50 naturisimo.com
LANEIGE
Lip Sleeping Mask, £19 cultbeauty.co.uk
ANGELA CAGLIA
Rose Quartz Eye Mask, £110 net-a-porter.com
VON NORTEN
Smoothing Rose Face Cream, £44 vonnorten.se
Passport Amour Eau De Parfum, £75 trianglestore.co.uk
CALLEN OLIVE
Bare To Impress Nail & Cuticle Oil, £22 callenolive.com
HABIT COSMETICS
Nail Polish, Dollhouse, £16 zeitgeist.london
AVIELA
Pure Shea Butter, £30 avielaskincare.com
EMOLYNE
Velvet Lip, Casablanca, £23 emolyne.com
By CARLY GLENDINNING
PATRICK TA
She's Extra Setting Fan, £21 cultbeauty.co.uk
REN Moroccan Rose Body Oil, £38 renskincare.com
GLOW RECIPE
Watermelon Glow AHA Night Treatmemt, £36.50 cultbeauty.co.uk
The picturesque parkland. The sense of serenity. A glamorous getaway. A moment of bliss. The Spa at Coworth Park.
Just the thing for the colder winter months, this oversized long-sleeve top will keep you nice and warm during (and between) your workouts.
Made of a recycled Polyamide mix and fit for comfort, this light-support sports bra is just the thing for low-intensity exercise.
These may be your new favourite pair of leggings. Made for every movement, their slim fit provides the ultimate level of comfort.
All styles mentioned are available for purchase at armedangels.com
Q What inspired you to create 'The Female Curve'?
A In 2020, I decided to go through an egg freezing journey and before my first appointment I received a series of videos about female physiology. It blew my mind how little I knew about my body, so I started reading and learning about how hormones actually work.
Q How did you go about developing the program?
A I started by tracking my own cycle and then adjusted not only when and how I train, but also my diet and lifestyle as a whole. The e ects were transformational. From there I designed an eight-week pilot program, which has proved to be a real success with so many.
Q What should every woman know about their hormones?
A There’s a massive stigma around female hormones and they are seen as the ‘down-side’ of being a woman. But in reality, living in sync with your cycle can supercharge your health, fitness, and wellness. It’s proven by science, and has already improved the lives of hundreds of women.
Q Why do women's bodies need a di erent approach?
A Centuries of male bias have created a set of recommendations that often work against our hormones and can be harmful. It isn't enough to just apply a blanket one size fits all approach to all women's bodies, so our approach is hyperpersonalised to each individual.
Q What does a woman's body generally need during its cycle?
A It's di erent for everyone. After all, female bodies are super complex and unique and they must be treated accordingly. That being said, roughly speaking, when it comes to exercise, your follicular phase is your strong phase and your luteal phase is a more calm restorative phase. So it's best to push hard at the beginning of your cycle and then slow down towards the end. Equally the way you need to nourish your body changes throughout the month. For example, your body temperature rises in the second half of the month, so you need more calories - hence those cravings thefemalecurve.com
The new year brings a new set of challenges, but Origin Pools is here to help you thrive, not just survive, in 2023. We all need a space where we can go to switch off and relax, so how about a sanctuary in your own home? Learn how an indoor pool from Origin can help you be your best self this year on page 79.
originpools.co.uk
Clodagh McKenna 70 • Power Of Paint 74 • Trend 81
ORIGIN POOLS
As a resident chef on This Morning, Clodagh McKenna is regularly seen cooking up her favourite quick and simple dishes with infectious enthusiasm. But Clodagh, who trained at Ireland’s famous Ballymaloe Cookery School, is far more than a great cook – she’s a homemaker.
Viewers of ITV’s flagship weekday show are occasionally given an insight into the Irish chef’s life at Broadspear, a 300-year-old cottage in the grounds of Highclere Park (of Downton Abbey fame) where she lives with husband Harry Herbert, dogs Alfie and Nolly, and their brood of 12 hens and six ducks.
For the past four years the couple, who married at a church within Highclere’s grounds in 2021, have been bringing the property and surrounding 100 acres of land back to life – even building their own sustainable country pub, The Cork Arms, using wood from trees in their woodland.
“It’s a private pub just for family and friends that used to be a fallen down shed,” the 47-year-old tells me with a giggle.
“Everybody was giving us ideas of what we should do with it, but I knew I wanted to create this magical, cosy and warm cabin. I wanted the shelves to be slightly imperfect and I wanted it to feel like it had been there forever.”
Documenting their journey, as well as tips on everything from table and platescaping to home composting and seasonal home styling on her website and via videos on her Instagram page, Clodagh would regularly get questions from her followers about products she was using and where to find them. It was the catalyst to launch her own online store during lockdown.
“It happened really organically and very quickly,” she explains. “I had a Microplane grater I was using and people kept asking me where they could get one. Places kept selling out and it all started to get a little complicated trying to find where to recommend and so, because we already had a shop function set up on my website to sell my cookery books, I decided to sell them myself. I ordered 40 thinking it would be great if I sold 10, that was on the Friday, and by the Monday I’d sold over 100 because I didn’t know how to put a stock limit on it!”
Initially the online store sold cookery and household items, but as Clodagh and Harry expanded their smallholding at Broadspear, it became the ideal portal to sell their own produce, such as grass-fed Aberdeen Angus beef; wild meadow honey; juice, chutneys and jams made from fruit grown in the orchards; and eggs from their happy free-running chickens and ducks – who have become celebrities in their own right. “I mean, the hens have their own followers,” Clodagh laughs.
Fast forward to 2022 and with the world starting to feel a little more normal again, Clodagh was able to start thinking about finding a physical shop where she could sell her homeware, alongside produce from the rapidly growing farm.
The perfect opportunity arose just 15 minutes from her front door when a small retail space became available within the grounds of the The Retreat at Elcot Park, a recently revamped 18th-century country house hotel situated between Hungerford and Newbury.
A treasure trove of pretty hand-made table linens, British bees-wax candles, hand-blown glassware, essential cookware items, and seasonal flowers and wreaths, the store o cially opened at the end of November last year.
“I fell in love with the space as soon as I saw it but, because they had a Christmas market at the end of November, I had just 10 days to turn it all around – to get it painted, install till systems, the branding, lighting, the whole thing,” Clodagh explains. “It was pretty stressful, but so worth it, it’s such a beautiful shop.”
From the crockery and sustainable table linens to Clodagh’s favourite pantry items, the bestselling cookbook author curates all the items in the shop herself, sourcing many from as close to home as possible. “These are some of my favourite products, and things that I use every single day,” she says.
“If I buy something that I really love for the home, I will then try to source it for the shop, whether it’s bud vases or flower vases, our marble round serving boards, True Grace dipped candles made in Hampshire or the table linens that I got handmade for my wedding – there’s been a waiting list for those. I want to provide my customers with everything they need to create the heart of their homes.”
Customers can also sample Clodagh’s delicious signature bakes, which are available to takeaway or eat in the courtyard at the front of the shop, freshly-baked artisan bread and produce from Broadspear Farm, as well as a few seasonal specials, such as Clodagh’s home-made chicken liver pate, which has quickly become a bestseller.
But for Clodagh the space is much more than just a store. With eight cookbooks under her belt, including last year’s number one bestseller In Minutes, the chef hosts
regular book signings in the shop and says she loves being able to o er advice to her customers in person or just have a general chit chat. “That’s always been the dream,” she beams. “People come in from all over and then they say their name and I realise that I recognise them from Instagram. It’s just lovely to meet them in person and chat properly.”
Having recently moved to a new property myself, I take the opportunity to ask what Clodagh’s top tips are for making a house feel like home. “My biggest piece of advice when doing up a home, if you have the time, is to shop around on places like eBay or go to antiques markets or the little shops in Hungerford and Newbury,” she o ers. “You don’t have to spend a fortune and you’ll likely find something really unique. And then does your home feel warm and comfortable? Textures are so important and warming colours on the wall.”
So, will Clodagh be putting pen to paper to write an interiors book I wonder? “I’ve always loved setting the table for my food and my love of interiors has come from that,” she says. “It’s become, quite organically, just part of what I do – food is all about colour and textures and that is what interiors is all about. But I’m not sure I’m qualified enough to write a whole book about it. But perhaps a book about the home, I think I’d quite like to do that.”
In the meantime, Clodagh does have a new baking range coming out in the spring, which we’re sure, if her previous track record is anything to go by, will be a huge hit.
clodaghmckenna.com
“I want to provide my customers with all they need to create the heart of their homes”
In this dressing room, the walls, floor, fireplace and trim are all coated in Blush by Little Greene, for a luxurious enveloping effect set against the darker shade of the bedroom
“Some people are opposed to painting wood, whether it’s in the shape of furniture, doors or fireplaces. I am not one of those people”
Paint is accessible and easily achievable, a tool that anyone can use with zero experience or training and where the impact far outweighs the cost and time spent. Leaving aside the usual coat of paint on the walls, there are myriad ways to update your home using this versatile medium.
First of all, almost anything can be painted. Metal, wood, tile, ceramics, floors, ceilings – there is likely to be a suitable paint product for it. There are many options for paints that are less harmful for both you and the environment, but my (admittedly unscientific) opinion is that using any paint to update a piece of furniture that would otherwise get dumped must surely outweigh the negatives. Some people are opposed to painting wood, whether it’s in the shape of furniture, doors or fireplaces. I am not one of those people. I certainly wouldn’t suggest coating a classic Ercol chair in high gloss, but there is so much brown furniture out there and charity shops and online marketplaces
There are myriad ways to update your home with colour
are brimming with tired wooden chairs and tables of no particularly distinguished origin that can enjoy a whole new life with a lick of paint. Not everyone loves the look of bare wood, and for them there is paint.
I have a few favourite creative updates with paint. Painting old or unattractive radiators the same colour as the walls can make them disappear, while a contrasting colour will make them stand out. Paint internal doors with a pop of colour to make a statement, or link the colour palette of a series of adjoining rooms and hallways, so that the long view tells a story as well the room itself. If you’re feeling artistic, think about adding a border where the wall meets the ceiling or paint woodwork/trim a contrasting colour. Paint a panel of colour on the wall to create an interesting backdrop for a piece of art or a shelf. Paint is your go-to for instant impact, whatever your skill level.
Origin knows a swimming pool can add not only value to your home, but to your home life as well and access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim every day in the privacy of your own home. What does ‘finding your best self’ look like for you?
Taking time every day to exercise, relax or meditate? Spending more time with family? Being more mindful? These are all key considerations and Origin has the answers.
A Swimming can give you the positive mindset needed to take on 2023. As well as the obvious physical health benefits, swimming
also improves quality of sleep and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Origin believes owning a pool is about more than the pool itself; by adding a spa, sauna or yoga room your swimming pool and pool house could be a centre of wellness. If you’re looking to increase family time, your pool house could become a new social hub for everyone to enjoy by adding a gym, lounge area or even a bar. A new pool from Origin provides endless possibilities for fun and relaxation, and can even revolutionise your exercise routine.
A If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your pool or simply want to lower running costs, Origin incorporates the very latest, innovative building materials for energy e ciency
into their projects and provides you with a host of options to lessen your carbon footprint. There are plenty of small changes you can make that can have a big impact. Whether you want to add an insulated pool cover or air source heat pumps, Origin will work with you to create your ideal pool.
A Origin prioritises client-led construction, providing the best possible result and ensuring you get the pool and pool house you’ve been waiting for. Building pools is a specialised field and requires a holistic approach with all the key elements working together from the beginning. Origin has all the design and engineering expertise necessary and manages the whole building process for you, from initial concept, planning and design to completion and beyond, eliminating the need for you to employ separate companies. Origin has been building award-winning indoor pools for over 40 years and has successfully completed plenty of pools and pool houses to a wide range of specifications. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, wellness or fun, Origin has experienced it all and is ready to help you find your best self with an Origin pool.
Call 01895 453996, email info@originpools. co.uk, head to Instagram @originpoolsuk, or to find out more visit originpools.co.uk
“An indoor pool from Origin can revitalise your life'”
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A thriving independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18
Scan here to access our prospectus, or contact: admissions@stgeorges-ascot.org.uk to reserve your space on one of our regular, tailored open mornings
www.stgeorges-ascot.org.uk
Godstowe is a non-selective school that achieves outstanding results and the right individual outcomes for all pupils in their care. The chance for their girls to stay until 13 allows them all the opportunity to enjoy an exceptional education where they can develop their leadership skills, their friendships and their confidence for all that life beyond Godstowe has to offer.
As I am writing this, a few days before Christmas (thanks to the quirks of early deadlines in the publishing world), I’m surrounded by wrapping paper for our children’s presents, looking forward to the prospect of watching Love Actually this evening, all five of us snuggled on the sofa and all the joy and warmth of family life abounding.
Fast forward to February and, again, we see the shops full of red hearts on cards and chocolates and inflated prices of red roses. Yes, Valentine’s Day is here, again.
In reality, every parent knows that being a Mum or Dad can never always be Instagram perfect or the promise of everyday being wonderful. We all know that parenthood comes with enormous responsibilities and a great many challenges along the way. We agonise over decisions. What is best for each child? We worry, we want to keep them
safe, but know that we can’t wrap them up forever; we feel guilty about whether we have made the right decision – but, above all, what we all want more than anything is for our children to be happy and fulfilled.
It seems timely to reflect on a bit of tough love. Yes, tough love. I almost feel that I should be a little guilty for even suggesting such a thing. I’m sure we are all glad that we no longer live in the days of Victorian values and child rearing where they were seen and not heard. However, do you think perhaps, if one reflects, things have now swung a little too far the other way? Children are often given so many choices – often becoming the King, Queen or CEO of their own small worlds!
Of course, children should have opportunities to express their own thoughts and ideas, to be involved, within reason, in appropriate decisions. It is right that, as they become older, gradual steps of independence should be taken, but letting the genie out of the bottle too quickly can create unsettled children, at the very least.
Drawing boundaries, where children know where the parameters exist, can o er children a sense of security. Far from feeling that children should be involved in every choice that is o ered to them, learning to make a decision within secure
boundaries will create more secure children.
Don’t be afraid not to be your child’s best friend – you are the adult, the parent and you know what will be best for them, for the time being. With love, say no when you need to do so. Sometimes they don’t like us, but they always love us and that is perfectly okay.
Then, one day, as your older children stride out into the world on their own, perhaps in late teens and beyond, something rather amazing and transformative can happen. All the boundary laying, the “be in by x o’clock” and so on, begins to fall away quickly, there is a mutual sense of friendship and respect and you are into a new phase – a phase of truly unconditional friendship. It is wonderful!
We will always be their parents, but look forward to the wonderful relationships of the future. It is worth taking the time to pace things gradually
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. For more information, call 020 8487 9517 or visit laidlaweducation.co.uk
To open this month’s education special, one expert discusses the issue of independence and our children, and why it’s never a bad idea to say no on occasions
“Letting the genie out of the bottle too quickly can create unsettled children”
Founded over 60 years ago by the Principals’ parents, Claires Court o ers a diamond shape education providing a unique opportunity for girls and boys to be educated during their Junior and Senior years separately, coming together for trips, visits and sporting events, whilst its Nursery and Sixth Form pupils benefit from co-education.
This is a school where pupils are encouraged to be the very best they can be and make a positive di erence in everything they do.
The curriculum extends far beyond the basics and students experience an education which equips them
well for life in a changing, fastpaced and challenging world.
The school has a strong and coherent learning philosophy, the Claires Court Essentials, which focuses on developing a variety of skills and behaviours that young people need to be successful learners. As they mature, pupils are expected to stretch themselves and push their own boundaries and limitations.
Learning is brought to life outside the classroom and the school o ers an exciting co-curricular programme designed to enrich students’ school lives, but also to teach valuable life skills such as perseverance and teamwork.
At Claires Court, sport is for all students to enjoy whatever
their ability and a huge variety of sporting activities are on o er. With its close proximity to the River Thames and local lakes, older students can opt to sail, kayak or canoe during games lessons twice a week. In fact the school has a strong rowing reputation with recent wins at Henley Royal Regatta and the British Rowing Championships cementing their national reputation.
The school’s values of responsibility, respect, loyalty and integrity are lived and breathed throughout the school community, encouraging students to develop a moral sense of worth and personal values which will hold them in such good stead in their lives to come.
Book a visit at clairescourt.com or email registrar@clairescourt.com An extensive coach service is available serving the surrounding area
With a strong track record on pastoral care, Claires Court is a school for families, where community is central to its ethos
its
“Pupils are expected to push their own boundaries and limitations”
Sitting in the classroom isn’t the only way to improve yourself…
E-learning – it's a phrase that few of us had even heard of a couple of years ago. But since a global pandemic forced schools and universities to move online, E-learning has become a mainstay of education for people all over the world.
Like most sudden changes in education, E-learning has been met with some scepticism. But rest assured, as the world continues to change, learning online is here to stay. Rather than trying to deny it, we should be embracing it as a tool which makes education easier to achieve for many people. Here’s why…
Remember, E-learning isn’t just for school children. Plenty of adults have turned to online classes to earn qualifications or satisfy their thirst for knowledge. In the busy worlds of adulthood and parenthood, it can be di cult to find time to attend in-person classes. Learning online in your own home solves this problem by removing the commute and making sure all the materials you need can be accessed at the click of a mouse.
Found the perfect course, but it’s only taught at an institution hundreds of
miles away? This is no longer a problem with E-learning. By moving online, education has become accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live.
This isn’t solely an issue of convenience either. People from developing countries can now access education online that wasn’t previously available to them. All they need is a laptop and an internet connection.
Just as children have always been taught how to dress for job interviews and behave in an o ce environment, they now need to be coached on how to act in a remote working environment. Zoom meetings may have been new, unfamiliar territory for those already in the workforce, but for people who’ve grown up with E-learning, the challenge of meeting and working with people through a camera is a familiar one.
School children may bemoan this point, but E-learning will save countless hours of lost schooling. Things that once might have blocked children from attending lessons (snow, floods, chicken pox etc.) are a thing of the past. E-learning means no one ever has to miss out on their education due to factors outside of their control.
Of course, E-learning isn’t completely infallible. To learn online you need a fast, reliable broadband connection – one that won’t cut out during a class discussion on Zoom or bu er during a streamed lecture.
With Swish Fibre you can get lightningfast Full Fibre broadband throughout your home, no matter how many devices are connected. So you can be learning online while others in your home are watching TV or gaming – you'll still be able to work and learn without disruption or delay.
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Henry Knight took over as Head of Senior Prep and Student Performance of St George’s School Windsor Castle last September - here’s how an exciting school year is progressing
Q What originally attracted you to the role at St George’s?
A A multitude of things! St George’s is going through an extraordinary transformation and is on a journey to become the leader in its field – choosing the innovative International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and becoming an IB World School; being the first standalone independent prep school to join the international Round Square network; adopting the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate (PSB) as an academic framework for Years 7 and 8; introducing High Performance Learning across the school, and so much more. The clarity of vision displayed by the Head and the dynamism of the wider team were also both extremely attractive.
Q What has surprised you since your arrival?
A The blend of tradition and 21st century educational philosophy. St George’s was founded in 1348 to educate the choristers of St George’s Chapel and this tradition remains unbroken today; the school still sits at the foot of the castle and the school playing fields are in Home Park Private, with the castle as the
most magical backdrop. This bears all the hallmarks of tradition; however, it doesn’t take long at all to discover that the focus of St George’s today is very much on providing the most forward-thinking, holistic education.
Q What have been the highlights of this school year so far?
A In the short time since I joined, I have been really blown away by how passionate and enthusiastic the sta are. With the introduction of the IB and PSB, the opportunity a orded to our teachers to think outside the box, work more collaboratively across subject areas and remove the shackles of a typical, traditional prep school education have been transformational. What this has created is a body of teaching sta who are both hugely experienced and utterly reinvigorated – a fantastically potent combination.
Q Years 7 and 8 is a key time in the development of young people; how do you feel St George’s supports children at this age?
A Our Senior Prep faculty provides a bespoke two-year programme for children in Years 7 and 8, marking the final stage in a ten-year journey with us to become ‘Real World Ready’.
At this age, 11-13, young people tend to crave independence and are able to make more advanced decisions. They also need the freedom to explore and experiment in a safe and supportive environment which enables them to make mistakes and reflect on these in a healthy way. By having dedicated, self-contained facilities in our Old Bank House building, small class sizes, passionate and caring sta , access to flexi-boarding, and the PSB framework driving the development of confidence,
resilience and compassion, we believe we are ideally placed to support children through this period of accelerated development.
The skills St George’s students hone, including in leadership and public speaking, critical thinking, entrepreneurialism, constructive self-reflection, and the importance of respecting the views and attitudes of others, will support their development not only at St George’s, but at their senior schools, at university and in their working lives as well.
Q What kind of thing would we see if we entered a typical classroom?
A The nature of our transdisciplinary curriculum means a ‘typical classroom’ no longer really exists! You might find students outside launching rockets, the conclusion of an assignment incorporating skills across economics, engineering, science and maths. Or in the design technology suite working in small groups, designing and building a model F1 car before competing in a race. Or up at the castle, delivering a presentation on a topic they have chosen to research as their end of year project. Or perhaps making use of the
HENRY KNIGHTswimming pool, or planning the scene change music for an upcoming drama production. The possibilities are endless. Although no matter the subject, the topic being studied, or the PSB skills being employed, once immersed in the lesson, you might find it hard to leave!
Q Is the extra-curricular just as important for you, and what opportunities are there at St George’s?
A Yes, it is and there is so much in which to get involved at St George’s – sport, music, drama, art, trips and excursions, the St George’s Award, and that’s before you consider all of the incredible activities led by the boarding team for those who stay on-site during the week.
Boarding, whether for the full week or for the occasional night, is not only considered by our students to be great fun, it is also a fantastic way to develop valuable life skills, such as collaboration and the appreciation of individual di erence. For the students in Years 7 and 8 who are planning to board at senior school, it is also a nurturing environment in which to experience –and acclimatise to – life as a boarder.
Q What are your plans for the Senior Prep faculty for the coming year?
A We have some incredibly exciting developments in the pipeline for Years 7 and 8 in the coming years. Not least the establishment of an annual exchange programme with a school in Kenya, which we are hoping to launch later this year.
Closer to home, we are looking to create two new common rooms, to give Old Bank House even more of the feel of a ‘sixth form hub’. We will also be incorporating the principles of ‘High Performance Learning’ into the PSB, further solidifying our philosophy that all students can be high attainers, not limited by a fixed ‘ability’ or ‘potential’.
As a ‘living’ curriculum, the scope of the PSB is almost limitless in terms of the knowledge that can be taught. As such, this curriculum will change, subject by subject and term by term, and our plans will change accordingly, based on our transdisciplinary approach to learning. I’m very much looking forward to seeing where this journey will take us.
stgwindsor.org
Preparing our young for the working world: why are so many not coping?
By SARAH BARNARDhen I think back to my own schooldays, the preparation for university consisted of little more than a deadline for the completion of the UCAS form. However, all schools are cognisant of the magnitude of the leap our students take today when they leave school, and it is now a necessity to provide advice from Key Stage 3 onwards.
For schools, having a bespoke programme in place that is regularly fine-tuned is vital. This should consist not only of individualised guidance on how to apply to university for Year 12 and 13, but it should also support students with their option choices at GCSE and A-level too.
Walso need to open up opportunities for work shadowing and global internships and other bespoke programmes to assist those who are pursuing very specific fields such as medicine, art or overseas options.
Undoubtedly, all schools are recognising that a one size fits all approach is no longer an option if they are to nurture young people who are ready to forge their way confidently in life. This need for a more individualised approach has been further supported by data that has emerged over the last 18 months. The impact of the pandemic continues to be felt amongst our young people. UCAS reported a 450% rise in the reporting of mental health conditions in the decade from 2011, and this has undoubtedly been exacerbated by the disruption to education. Record proportions of young people have also been applying to universities (UCAS
reports 41.5% of 18-year-olds and rising, for each cycle) and we are also entering a period of higher birth rate years, so the struggle for access to educational opportunities beyond school has become incredibly challenging.
The good news is that education professionals across the sector are very
much aware of these challenges and there are positive moves by schools and universities to attempt to work more closely together. Universities are actively engaged in outreach with schools to ensure they understand students’ concerns about the transition. Students have certainly found it useful that universities have begun to produce more practical online resources covering everything from write an essay to doing your own laundry. That said, there is currently a wider gap between employers and educational institutions in terms of how to support school leavers as they move into their future professions.
If students are to cope and flourish in the modern working world, this holistic approach by providers and those who create policy, does need further development. Schools are certainly aware that students have a plethora of opportunities available to them both for post-16 study, and upon leaving school. They are also acutely aware that the traditional A-levels followed by university route is not right for every individual.
In a 2018 report, authored by the Institute for the Future, it was estimated that 85% of jobs in 2030 do not currently exist and this presents its own challenges in supporting our young people as clairvoyancy is not a skill that most educational professionals are highly skilled in! On a practical level, schools must focus on embedding excellent
soft skills in their young people from an early age, if they are to grow into adaptable, resilient and confident young adults.
Children need to learn how to become strong team players, good communicators and decisive individuals who can manage change with maturity and creativity. Many children don’t realise that in playing for their school team or giving a presentation in class that they are already being supported on this collaborative journey. The transferability of these skills will equip them to face their future with positivity. Equipping children with the skills and confidence to navigate their future in the modern working world is surely the greatest gift that we, as education professionals, can give them
“Schools must focus on embedding excellent soft skills”Sarah Barnard is Director of Futures Department at Downe House School in Berkshire. See more at downehouse.net
Dr Ranj Singh has won over the nation on breakfast TV, Strictly and CBeebies, yet he still puts in the hours as an NHS paediatrician. Absolutely Sussex finds out more
By LIBBY NORMAN
Dr Ranj Singh follows in a fine tradition of medics who also entertain the nation (Harry Hill, Graeme Garden, Jonathan Miller, to name just three). He can sing and dance really well, he acts and now he writes books. Yet he still finds time to be a doctor – these days part-time – working as an NHS clinician specialising in paediatric emergency medicine. It is, he says, a terrific ice breaker when worried families turn up at his London hospital to find ‘that man o Strictly’.
Dr Ranj doesn’t see media work and medicine as strange bedfellows. “A lot of medics – even though they are highly academic people in a very vocational job – are multifaceted. I went to university with people who had many di erent skills: writing, performing, music, dance, you name it. So, we are multifaceted, and that for me lends itself really well to paediatrics. You have to have that approach as you’re dealing with kids, families, communication and complex medicine.”
His desire to be a doctor started really young. Indeed, he settled on medicine shortly after the typical childhood astronaut phase. “Ever since I was a few years old I just had a fascination with the way things work. I used to take all my toys apart, much to my parents’ frustration,” he says. “Also, I always had this desire to help people – I wanted to make things better for people.”
While Dr Ranj was always dedicated to getting good grades – he says you have to be on such an academic pathway – he also had performing in his bones. “Music was the very first thing I was told I was good at,” he says. His singing got him picked for the school choir and he won second place at Kent Music Festival. “That was the first ever certificate I got, so music was always something that was special to me,” he says. “While I was a really creative kid, that was something
I put to one side and had as a hobby.”
His path into medical school was easier than the transition to real-world medicine. “It was a complete culture shock. Studying medicine is very di erent to practising medicine and that first year was a baptism of fire,” he says. “I thought, ‘this is completely di erent to what I expected and I’m not sure this is the right thing for me. I’m not getting that sense of achievement and satisfaction that I thought I would’.”
Having decided on a six-month sabbatical, Dr Ranj was clearing his mind by redecorating his parents’ house when he was asked to interview for a paediatrician role. He got the job, which meant house decorating at
speed, but the payback came in the realisation he’d found his passion. “I suddenly got this sense of, ‘this is why I became a doctor’,” he says. “It was fascinating medicine – every day was interesting. I was working with amazing people – paediatric teams are just the best people – and all of a sudden, I felt reinspired. I was destined to be a paediatrician after that.”
Paediatrics was the perfect fit not least because there is a creative side when you are working with children. They may be frightened, and they often can’t tell you what’s wrong. For children lucky enough to encounter Dr Ranj at his London hospital, there’s a friendly and very empathetic manner. Little wonder then that his ability to engage with young people took him beyond hospital. CBeebies viewers learnt that doctors are there to help on Get Well Soon – a fun factual programme for very young children. He co-created this with Kindle Entertainment and it first aired in 2012, picking up a BAFTA in 2016.
Dr Ranj soon came to prominence for adult viewers too, as resident medic at ITV’s This Morning, and with a multitude of appearances over recent years on everything from Good Morning Britain and Inside Out to 5 News –even Cooking with the Stars, where he showed he’s no slouch in the kitchen. Other media work includes contributions and columns for NetDoctor, Al Jazeera and Attitude
He has become, in short, one of those doctors trusted to dispense sound advice to the nation. But his performing ability has been the secret surprise. While he hoofed like a pro on Strictly, the voice he revealed in ITV’s All Star Musicals in March 2021 was a revelation and led to a one-o West End show in aid of Make a Di erence Trust Theatre Fund. He has loved these opportunities. “It’s given me a chance, I guess, to be the fuller me!”
Books for young people have been a natural progression. “Kids and young people are who I work with. They’re the ones I know how
“It is a terrific ice breaker when worried families turn up at hospital to find ‘that man o Strictly’”DR
IN NHS
to communicate with. I thought to myself: ‘I want to write books that they find helpful and useful, that they can turn to for information or reassurance’.” Dr Ranj chose a subject close to his heart with How to Grow Up and Feel Amazing: The No Worries Guide for Boys. “There was a need for a modern, up-to-date guide for boys and young men going through a very challenging time in this world.”
Brainpower followed this and was written to help counter some of the mental health and wellbeing impacts of the pandemic. Then
came picture books for young readers. A Superhero Like You was written as a thank you to front-line workers. “Also, a reminder to little ones about all the joy and positivity out there, even in a pandemic-stricken world. A Superpower Like Mine is a step on from that and is designed to inspire little ones to think about themselves and their own inherent superpowers and human skills that they can discover, build on and nurture.”
He’s been open in the past with his own journey as a gay man from a Sikh background. His advice to parents of children who may be struggling with identity or confused about growing up
is straightforward: “Give them a space to explore who they are safely and be able to come to you when they are in trouble. Also, acknowledge the fact that children are very open minded and they get diversity – let them learn about it,” he says. “There are so many resources out there to help, and so many helplines for parents if they are panicking. But kids are pretty good at working out who they are and settling, eventually, on what they want to be. And we’ve just got to let them explore and discover for themselves.”
The doctor hasn’t hung up his stethoscope or his pen, nor indeed his mic and dancing shoes. With more books for children and young adults planned for next year, there’s also been a Celebrity Cruises gig this summer and he was in pantomime, “which I loved”. And he’s still pursuing his first-love career, putting in the hours in the emergency room of a London hospital and helping children. “I still get to exercise that part of my brain and do my bread and butter. It’s the thing that drives me, the bit that gives me a sense of purpose.”
A Superpower Like Mine is published by Hachette Children’s (£6.99)
“Kids are pretty good at working out who they are – we’ve got to let them explore and discover for themselves”
This is a special year for the St George’s School, Ascot community, marking 100 years of excellence in girls’ education, further to the purchase of the school by Miss Anne Loveday in 1923. Prior to this the school had been a boys prep school and then a finishing school. This was the start of the modern, progressive educational establishment for girls we know today.
The 1920s, following on from World War I, were a time of enormous change for girls and women in terms of their
status in society, their accessibility to education and work, and the perceived value they brought to the world. St George’s was later recognised by the Department for Education, in 1927, and thus began the educational journey that they continue to this day.
The pupils, sta and governors were delighted to commence their centenary year by receiving an outstanding endorsement from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) following its November 2022 inspection. Inspectors found St George’s to be fully compliant with all regulations, and in both areas of
the educational quality inspection, ‘pupils’ academic and other achievements’ and ‘pupils’ personal development’ the school was awarded the highest grade of ‘excellent’.
Head Liz Hewer reflects: “I am delighted we were awarded the highest category of ‘excellent’ in both categories for Educational Quality. The report is a testament to our pupils of whom I am very proud, as well as the sta , parents, governors and alumnae, who all work together to make St George’s Ascot the school I am privileged to lead. The values of community, kindness, hard work, support and integrity shine through the report and it is an
St George’s Ascot begins celebrations of 100 years in girls’ education with a glowing Independent School Inspectorate report
impressive reminder of all the excellent work we do in and outside of school.”
The academic excellence o ered to Georgians was reflected by the Inspectors stating: “Pupils make excellent progress throughout the school, achieving results at GCSE and A-level which are well above the national average,” and highlighted “pupils’ positive attitudes towards learning are a striking feature of the school”.
Liz Hewer frequently reminds pupils, parents and alumnae that St George’s is a place to explore, take on new experiences and opportunities, and balance academic achievement with a comprehensive range of co-curricular activities. Inspectors commented: “Pupils’ achievements in co-curricular activities are extensive; [they] achieve
well across all areas of the curriculum and particularly in the creative subjects.”
Perhaps most significantly, the inspectors highlighted the willingness of pupils to collaborate with fellow pupils who have di erent strengths and talents and recognised the high degree of inclusivity and the ability of pupils to get along with each other. They noted pupils are: “... highly confident, combining healthy selfknowledge, first-class social skills and an awareness of the world around them.”
For anyone who has visited the school, the inspection report will not come as a surprise. As Liz Hewer’s welcome on the school website states: “When people tell me how much they have enjoyed visiting St George’s, I always ask them what it was that most impressed them. The lovely
buildings within a beautiful setting? The small class sizes? The ambition of the academic provision? The breadth of the co-curricular programme? The impressive theatre? The wonderful sports facilities? The professional and committed teachers? The busy and friendly atmosphere? ‘Well yes,’ they say. ‘All of those things. But it’s more than that; it’s the girls – there’s just something truly special about them’.
“There is no such thing as a typical St George’s girl as each of our pupils arrive with their own set of talents and interests. It is our privilege to encourage and challenge each and every one of them to develop a genuine understanding of who she is and support them to achieve the future of their choice. All of the sta here at St George’s strive for the very best for our girls and by nurturing their love of learning, their academic potential and their individual talents, we are able to develop happy, responsible, well balanced and resilient young women; confident, capable and connected to the world beyond our school.”
As St George’s celebrates 100 years of excellence in girls’ education, the commitment to advancing girls’ education and enabling them to make informed decisions about their pathways beyond age 18 remains central to the school’s ethos. Pupils become more confident, capable and connected as a result of their senior school years at St George’s Ascot stgeorges-ascot.org.uk
“It’s a reminder of the excellent work we do in and outside of school”
A new book for young people sets out to demystify money and help them unlock their entrepreneurial flair - and the timing is spot on
By LIBBY NORMAN
Talking to young people about money is tricky. Schools usually shoehorn personal finance within PHSE. For parents, it’s even harder – we want our children to understand its value, its pitfalls and the importance of securing their own future financial stability without alarming them. Despite best intentions, often we approach the subject with our own baggage (guilt, cynicism and anxiety included). What makes it more complex today is that all bets are o on old certainties – safe career trajectory, job for life, cast-iron pension.
But money has leaped from business to front page news recently – so a good time for
a financial heart to heart. A new book, Max Your Money, makes a great starting point for honest conversations. The book takes an international perspective and is aimed squarely at ‘tweenies’ and teens, pitching content at a level young people relate to. Its authors are old hands in the world of high finance. Larry (Laurence) Hayes runs an investment fund when he’s not writing books for children (including How to Survive Without Grown-Ups), while Rachel Provest is a family o ce and private equity director based in Singapore, and with a special interest and expertise within education.
As the book reveals, there’s some good news. During their research, the two discovered a rich vein of optimism and entrepreneurial flair bubbling up among the young. “Larry and I were just amazed by the number of case studies we came across
of children in the target age group, from 11 upwards, who had started their own business and were running it brilliantly,” says Rachel. “Having really taken the time to do the groundwork on this area, we’re convinced – and quite blown away – by the power of children to build their own businesses without that adult cynicism.”
Rachel puts some of it down to the ease with which an internet connection enables young people to carry forward brilliant ideas, learning and researching as they go. “YouTube is the great educator these days,” she says. Rachel also believes young people see the business opportunities adults can’t spot. “Adults are almost in their shadow trying to keep up with the way they are thinking.” And thanks to crowdfunding and other new avenues of funding, the traditional barriers are down. “Historically, you had to have money behind you otherwise it was impossible to catch up – you never had that advantage – so very few children could get beyond that and be successful o their own back. Whereas now, there’s really nothing stopping children as long as they have a good idea. With that, it’s more important than ever to make sure that they do have this basic understanding – how do you understand a profit and loss account, what’s the bottom line, how do you budget?” says Rachel.
This is where the book does a brilliant job. Divided into Earn it, Grow it, Use it, it o ers the kind of useful information every young person needs. For instance, it has
“With children there’s no cynicism there – no negativity – they just go into things with best and honest intentions”
a comparison of certain jobs and what they pay. Who knew a Lego Master Builder can make £19 an hour and an English League 2 footballer makes £25? Fascinating facts indeed, but the book goes deeper, including explanations about why some salaries are much higher than others, which jobs may disappear in the future and how to boost your earnings. There’s advice on how to work out what sort of job would suit you, and how to approach interviews. Also,
how to negotiate a pay rise and know your own worth – a section many parents may also find useful. The book covers savings and investment, spending money wisely, e ective charitable giving and – in the most exciting part – testing your own brilliant entrepreneurial ideas like a business pro to see if they could be winners and learning about other successful young entrepreneurs.
The authors got their own children involved as critical readers to ensure the text was clear and engaging. “If they didn’t understand what we were talking about, we’d go back and try and clarify it a bit more. So that helped us ensure we had a form of bulletproof book that was definitely child friendly,” says Rachel. One thing that amazed them both during their research was young people’s openness to business ideas and their ‘can-do’ spirit of optimism. “It’s wonderful because with children there’s no cynicism there – no negativity. They naturally don’t think that way, they just go into things with best and honest intentions.”
Read the book’s case studies of young entrepreneurs and you will agree that there’s something wonderful going on.
From the super earner Ryan (of YouTube channel Ryan’s World), who earned $29.5m in 2020 as an unboxer to the Argentinian
ethical hacker Santiago Lopez who netted a more modest $1million plus, young entrepreneurs around the globe outline how they have spotted opportunities and gone for it. The Max Your Money authors have a companion book on its way for young would-be millionaires and Rachel is looking to use some of their research so far as the basis for a curriculum to help young people unlock their entrepreneurial talents.
One side benefit of Max Your Money is that Rachel’s own daughter – one of the book’s critical readers – has taken its ideas to heart. Aged just 12, she is now running a startup that utilises her digital skills and creative spark. “She makes TikTok videos for companies,” says Rachel. “It started with a friend who needed help. It has gone from one to seven people. She sets their videos up for them, which is fantastic. I’m looking forward to retiring quite soon!”
“We were just amazed by the number of case studies we came across of children who had started their own business and were running it brilliantly”Max Your Money by Laurence Hayes and Rachel Provest is published by Welbeck Children’s Books, price £14.99
Local pupils at independent day and boarding school in Bushey, St Margaret’s, got into the festive spirit with their fantastic annual Christmas Fair at the end of 2022. The fair, which saw members of the local community come together with the school’s local pupils and their families, included a range of glittering stalls run by pupils, alumnae and local businesses selling handmade jewellery, artisan candles and crystals as well as handcra ed accessories such as handbags and recycled homewares. Other festive activities on offer included gingerbread men decorating, face painting and in the spirit of recycling, there was also a pre-loved Christmas jumper sale. As well as providing a wonderful gi -hunting opportunity for local residents, there was a Santa’s Grotto and a lovely Santa’s sleigh for the children to sit inside, and the school was thrilled to welcome two gorgeous reindeer onto its campus – ‘Sven’ the reindeer (pictured below) was particularly popular with the younger children.
stmargarets-school.org.uk
St George’s School Windsor Castle has become the first co-ed prep school in the Royal Borough to feature in The Good Schools Guide. The Guide, which prides itself on offering impartial and candid advice to parents across the UK and beyond, offers a comprehensive insight into the school’s Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior-Prep experience for children aged 3-13. Summarising their findings following a visit to the school, the reviewer concludes: “Families who want a liberal, outward-looking education delivered by bright-eyed teachers in a small and nurturing urban haven (plus castle) may find their child’s happy ever a er here.”
This positive endorsement echoes that of other independent school reviews, with Tatler
Reading Blue Coat is excited to extend its co-ed provision to welcome girls into Year 7 from September 2023, and to have girls in every year group by 2027. The school warmly invites you to their Open Morning on Saturday 13 May and hope you find Reading Blue Coat to be a gem of a site as well as a wonderfully happy and progressive school. They know that their strong academic results open doors, but more than ever our children need encouragement to gain the confidence and independence to walk through them. At Reading Blue Coat, students have unrivalled co-curricular opportunities in music, drama, public speaking and sport, as well as in the community – all of which celebrate their values of aspiration, courage, compassion, service and integrity. To be kind and engaged is what they expect of every member of their community.
rbcs.org.uk
describing St George’s in their 2023 Schools Guide as a school which “seamlessly blends the modern with the traditional” and Muddy Stilettos noting that “St George’s is leading the charge in educational reform as the UK’s first IB prep.” “It’s a school with academic rigour, royal links and a place where kindness is king,” the latter then adds.
See more at stgwindsor.org
“Little people often have big feelings, and the goal of baby signing isn’t to get rid of those feelings but to help them better communicate them”
By RACHEL HOGG
Picture this, you are taking your baby to the park, and you tell them this by using the signs for ‘walk’ and ‘park’. Strangely, your baby keeps signing back to you the words ‘cat’ and ‘bed’ and at first you think they have misunderstood. But then you remember that this time last week when you were heading to the park along this very same road you saw a cat sleeping on a wall. You realise that your baby has remembered that encounter and wanted to share the memory with you. They started this conversation with you using baby signing. This was a real experience between a mum and a baby and illustrates just how useful and rewarding baby signing can be. The experts say this is a tool capable of opening up a rewarding dialogue between parents and children well before spoken conversation begins.
It is important to distinguish ‘baby signing’ from ‘sign language’, as they are two separate entities with di erent purposes. British Sign Language (BSL) is specific to the deaf community and is a complete language in its own right with an alphabet and grammatical structures. Baby signing, on the other hand, is the use of gestures with spoken language. It is not meant as a substitute for the spoken word, but rather as a means of supporting language and helping young children engage with their world. Baby signing involves parents
using a limited number of simple gestures to support words as they are spoken. This helps encourage communication and underpins the natural development of your child’s speech.
Baby signing today has its roots in the US and is generally acknowledged to have started with the work of Dr Joseph Garcia (then an American Sign Language interpreter). He noticed that children of deaf friends who used ASL communicated by six months old, whereas children in verbal households tend to start limited communication at 12 months plus. A similar concept was pursued by two University of California child development academics in the 1990s, Dr Linda Acredolo and Dr Susan Goodywn. They spent some 20 years developing an impressive body of
Baby signing is a way to open up conversation with your child well before they can talk – and with potential benefits that last from infancy into young adulthood
evidence and techniques for baby signing, also publishing books accessible to families. Here in the UK, baby signing has found many champions. Sasha Felix developed one of the first parent programmes, Sing and Sign, some 20 years ago – initially as a means to help her own young child’s development by combining baby signing with music. Sing and Sign has now introduced thousands of families to baby signing using music.
While learning a language and teaching it to your child may seem daunting, baby signing does not require a huge investment of time – nor does it feel like an imposition. Gesturing when we speak is something most of us do instinctively, especially when we’re talking to children. Baby signing also acts as a natural extension of children’s own gestural stage, which is an important part of speech and language acquisition in early years.
The process of learning baby signing can be fun too. You can get started by reading books or watching online videos; however, a popular and social option is to attend in-person classes with your baby. Whatever route you choose, once you have started to pick up the basics it’s easy to implement these throughout your daily life. Armed with this new simple language of gestures, you then pass on these communication tools to your child.
A popular age to start implementing baby signing is around six months – once an infant can sit up and use their hands to sign things out. Sasha Felix believes this is the best age to start, but some parents are keen to get going even earlier, and Sing and Sign has even introduced a class that caters for newborns. It’s important to note that baby signing does not interfere with your child’s natural speech development. Once your child becomes verbal, they will typically start to phase out their signing because it is quicker to speak than sign. That said, children may still continue to include a sign for emphasis, out of habit or when they are being particularly insistent.
The broader goal of baby signing is to help families to communicate, and the benefits are felt by parents and children alike. For parents it is a good way of learning how to speak clearly and communicate words and concepts at a level infants can understand. It also gives vital and fascinating insight into how children navigate the world. “It means they can communicate so much of what they are seeing, experiencing and feeling, so it’s a wonderful tool for bonding and getting to know your child,” says Sasha.
While communication is the first goal, when a child has the opportunity and means to express their thoughts, feelings and desires this does usually end up having a positive impact on behaviour. “I would never be so presumptuous as to say that it takes away the frustrations of a two-yearold,” says Sasha. “Little people often have big feelings, and the goal of baby signing isn’t to get rid of those feelings, but to help them better communicate them.”
So don’t expect a total absence of temper
tantrums or meltdowns. There is no such thing as a weak-willed two-year-old, and the goal of signing isn’t to turn your little one into an obedient robot. That said, arming them with extra communication skills does help with conflict de-escalation. Children are likely to pause to respond, and also feel more understood and listened to through the process of signing to you. Another big benefit is that baby signing naturally kickstarts the process of learning to recognise and label feelings, which is an important step in developing emotional intelligence.
While learning to hold a conversation with someone still in nappies may seem strange at first, baby signing is fun for both sides and establishes an environment of engagement and positive communication from the earliest years. Families that implement these simple language tools often continue to feel the benefits long after their little ones have moved on from signing and grown into talkative young people – and that’s got to be an idea worth investing in.
For more about baby signing classes and resources, visit singandsign.co.uk
Family and friends of TV presenter Caroline Flack have announced that Flackstock, the intimate day festival celebrating Caroline’s life with comedy, dance and musical acts, will return for its second year in 2023. In its inaugural year in 2022, Flackstock featured performances by the likes of Ronan Keating, Tom Grennan, Olly Murs, Natalie Imbruglia and more. The event was attended by thousands and raised an incredible £325k split equally between Choose Love, Mind, Samaritans and Charlie Waller Trust – four worthy outlets that held a special place in Caroline’s heart. This year’s event will also raise money for these outlets, whilst the line-up will be announced in due course. Flackstock will again take place in the grounds of Englefield House following on from the summer concerts as part of Heritage Live on the site, which will be announced in due course, presented by Giles Cooper Entertainment.
The event is organised by a committee including Caroline’s mother Christine and sister Jody, her friends Natalie Pinkham, Dawn O’Porter, Anna Blue, Sarah Tyeki , and Leigh and Jill Francis. The committee said: “Flackstock was an incredible way to remember our friend Caroline, but it became so much more than that – a place full of joy where people felt comfortable talking about mental health. There has been an overwhelming desire for us to return, so we are back with the intention of building Flackstock into a legacy festival to raise money and awareness for a range of brilliant charities. We want everyone to come and join us in 2023 for this magical event.”
why everyone is talking about…
PIXIE LOTT WAS ONE OF THE STARS OFTHE
SHOW IN 2022RONAN KEATING ON STAGE FLACKSTOCK MONDAY 24 JULY 2023 Englefield House, Pangbourne, Berkshire RG7 5EN Tickets are available now from AXS.com
