Absolutely West Essex January 2022

WEST ESSEX

West Essex JANUARY 2022

HEALTH &BEAUTY SPECIAL

Top tips to start the new year with a bang

JANUARY 2022

Francesca

ALLEN ABSOLUTELY-WESTESSEX.CO.UK

FROM LOVE ISLAND TO LOUGHTON, MEET ONE OF 2022'S HOTTEST STARS PLUS

ROMANA BRIGHT Epping's rising Instagram star FOOL'S GOLD The Woodford local making jewellery personal HISTORY LESSON A century of change at Daiglen School in Buckhurst Hill

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JANUARY 2022

32

94 19

C U LT U R E COUNTY WALKS

FOOD & DRINK 66 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

ROMANA BRIGHT

68 THE GEORGE HOTEL

The best Essex locations for a winter stroll

22

Meet 2022's hottest Instagram star

24 JACK SULLIVAN

The Epping entrepreneur's life in football

News from the industry

Enjoying their tasty plans for the new year

70 RECIPES

Classic Indian dishes to make at home

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 30 CHARLI ROGERS

HOME & INTERIORS 92 INTERIORS NEWS

32 THE SHOOT

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The jeweller to the stars latest venture

A little Dutch courage in Leigh-on-Sea

47 HEALTHCARE SPECIAL 16 pages of top tips for your wellbeing

70

The latest must-haves in the industry

FIONA DUKE INTERIORS

The Essex designer on exciting twists

105 TREND

Taking a seat on the season's best sofas

A B S O L U T E LY- E S S E X .C O. U K A B S O L U T E LY-W E S T E S S E X .C O. U K The online guides to inspirational living and what's on in Essex O N T H E C OV E R West Essex: Francesca Allen (Stylist: Gabrielle Mai; Photography: Oliver Perry/HLD Management) Essex: Fabienne Chapot AW21

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The Creek is a multi award winning family run restaurant and bar owned by Terence and Caroline Howard and offering classical British dishes with a European influence using only the best locally sourced ingredients

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT

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For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries: please call 07862 004024 or email: celia@zest-media.com or please call 07968757129 or email: tania@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588

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We look forward to welcoming you with a smile.

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JON O'SHEA

Welcome Jon O'Shea, chairman and senior tax partner at Haslers, writes about reinvigorating our natural environment

THE EDITOR'S January issue highlights

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Weddings

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he last year has seen the world place an ever-greater focus on nature and the environment, ultimately culminating in the important talks at COP26. As well as looking at the wider world, we feel it is just as important to focus on the local environment and steps that we can take to make it better. That is why, for our 70th anniversary, we have decided to make one of our largest ever funding commitments to reinvigorate a much-loved nature area.

We are proud to have donated almost £15,000 to the Goldings Hill: Local Entrance Project, which will revitalise Golding Hill Pond. This former gravel pit is an essential habitat for pond floras and other wildlife in Epping Forest.

The ultimate aim of this project is to create an attractive access point to the Forest that is car-free and focused on the needs of the community. It will establish an interesting natural path network that links various parts of Epping Forest, complete with benches and information points to help visitors.

We feel that helping to fund the project is the perfect way to leave another lasting legacy and improve the lives of others near to our office in Loughton. The businesses, organisations and people in and around Epping Forest have played an important role in the success story of Haslers, so it is only right that we give a little more back.

The revitalisation of such an important local nature space brings us hope for the future of the area and the wider natural world and may inspire others to take small steps towards giant leaps to support our environment.

A look at the best venues in the county

4 3

Fran Allen

On life from Love Island to Loughton

Food News The latest from local restaurants

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Romana Bright Meet 2022's hottest Instagram star

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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Y E L LOW FEVER ALEKSANDRAVIKTOR is a contemporary brand with a traditional approach that tells the story of the origin of fashion. Focused on one iconic product – the coat – which is reinvented in each collection, inspired by different parts of the world, the launch collection is all about ikat weaving from Uzbekistan.

Pictured is the Marta coat. aleksandraviktor.com

CITRUS POP Jonathan Adler's joyful yellow Grapefruit diffuser smells like pink grapefruit, white grapefruit rind, green vine accords, pink freesia and passion fruit all in one. £62 jonathanadler.com

AC I D H O U S E Casting a glare free and comfortable light, the portable Bellhop Table Lamp has been innovatively designed by Barber & Osgerby for Flos. £190 conranshop.co.uk

SUN BURST In this new ski collection inspired by 90s raver fashion, Khrisjoy's Puff Khris vest is designed with a tie-dye finish, goose down feather padding and tassel details. £1,140 koibird.com

EDITOR’S PICK

D I P DY E Turtle Bags are committed to raising awareness about the hazards of plastic bags for sea life, particularly for turtles. These organic cotton string bags are strong and stylish as an alternative. £7 turtle-bags.com

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

C H A I N GA N G Join the club and look the part at the turn of the year with this stunning necklace from Galio. Chunky yellow gold vermeil necklace, £315 galio.co.uk

Y E L LOW MO O N

D I A M O N D D AY S

Quinton Chadwick's vintage style tweed stripe beret in teal, aqua, yellow and jade has a flecked pom pom; the colours are taken from the exotic Madagascan Moon moth. quintonchadwick.com

A stunning ring crafted in platinum and set with a cushion cut yellow diamond in a yellow gold rub-over setting surrounded by brilliant cut diamonds in a halo style. £5,500 bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

HERE COMES THE SUN A bunch of sunshine yellow Phalaris is stunning on its own in a statement vase or paired with other dried stems and grasses.

This colourful dried grass is the perfect way to add an elegant pop of colour to any room. £18 thehappyblossoms.com

CUT THE M U S TA R D We love a lace collar, especially when it's teamed with an ochre cardigan. Monsoon has got this combo just right, £55 monsoon.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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TURN THE

DAY -TO- DAY INTO

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Fit working hours around sixth form, college or your apprenticeship

Meet great people

Become more independent

#BEALIFESAVER Meet great people

NEXT NPLQ COURSE: Dates: Week beginning Monday 14th February

NEXT NPLQ COURSE: Times: 9am to 5:30pm

Place: Sylvestrian Leisure Centre, Forest School, Dates: Week beginning Monday 14th February Times: 9am to 5:30pm Place, Snaresbrook, E17 3PY College Place: Sylvestrian Centre, Forest School, Price: £280Leisure (£50 deposit required) College Place, Snaresbrook, E17 3PY Phone: 020 8509 6526 Price: £280 (£50 deposit required) Phone: 020 8509 6526

Develop essential skills for your future

NEXT COURSE: By being a lifeguard, you canNPLQ not only make Dates: Week beginning Monday a difference to a person’s life, but also your14th February Thrive on variety – Times: 9am to 5:30pm no day life. is theThere same are loadsPlace: own of other benefits too: Sylvestrian Leisure Centre, Forest School, Fit working hours around sixth form, college or Develop your apprenticeship

College Place, Snaresbrook, E17 3PY Price: £280 (£50 deposit required) Phone: 020 8509 6526

essential skills for your future

Become more independent

Thrive on variety – no day is the same Meet great people Fit working hours around form, college or Dates: Week beginning Monday 14th February your apprenticeship Times: 9am to 5:30pm

NEXT NPLQ COURSE: sixth

Place: Sylvestrian Leisure Centre, Forest School, College Place, Snaresbrook, E17 3PY Price: £280 (£50 deposit required) Phone: 020 8509 6526

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Become more independent

17/12/2021 17:52

C U LT U R E

SLEEP LIKE A KING HEDINGHAM CASTLE

Essex is full of history and here’s one unique date for your diary: Hedingham Castle is offering some great new experiences, including the chance to sleep like a King in a luxurious bedroom suite at the top of the castle. visitessex.com

Agenda 16 • Romana Bright 22 • Jack Sullivan 24 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • COLUMN

NEW beginnings Haifa Live takes us back to three Essex venues that had it all – and looks at what they hold in store for the new year

F

or this issue, to welcome in 2022, I decided to go on a journey to reminisce over some of my favourite performance and event spaces around Essex.

January is a good time to reflect upon years gone by and look forward to exciting new adventures to come, and there is no doubt that each and every venue has fought tooth and nail to stay open. I hope you can grace them with your presence and support in 2022.

REIDS

FACES

Reids has been a very prolific spot in Billericay for over 30 years and after sadly closing its doors in August 2020, a re-opening was not on the cards. Then, in 2021, with new investment and a team really pushing for success, it came back with a huge bang. I performed there some years ago for an all day and evening event with some amazing DJs. More recently I was asked to perform for its re-opening night in September last year. The doors opened, the champagne was served, and I can say first-hand the event space is superb.

There's two bars and a large dancefloor area, and also a balcony with staircase leading up to a plush private party or VIP area. Cocktail masterclasses, tribute nights, and NOW 80s vs 90s nights are all just a taste of what’s to come in 2022.

The restaurant is also fabulous on Sundays with live singers whilst you can enjoy a traditional roast. It is simply fantastic to have this venue re-open to such great reviews and supporting live music almost every night of the week. See what all the fuss is about yourselves @reidsbar.

FACES Early memories of Essex fashion week, backstage excitement, makeup artists, hairstylists and the absolute fun and chaos that was Faces Gants Hill make me smile. I remember strutting my stuff along the runway performing one of my

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REIDS

latest singles, nobody seeing how nervewracking it all was backstage. Performing there after its re-opening in December 2020, I can honestly say the club looks and feels fantastic. I wish it every success after so much time has been spent with its re-launch. You may even catch me there in 2022... Check out @facesnightclub for more.

OLIVE TREE One of my first weekly performance spots in Loughton, the Olive Tree was such a well-renowned and fun Greek style restaurant hosting parties every week.

My favourite memory was performing to a buzzing crowd with Tony Hadley gracing us with his presence. What a treat! The Olive Tree has sadly closed its doors, but a new venture by the name of Battered has taken over. Let’s see what this fish restaurant will have on offer.

CATC H H A I FA L I V E Live singers & DJs on rotation @soireerestaurant every Friday and Saturday night Live singers every Thursday, Friday and Saturday @melinchigwell

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The Agenda

JA N UA RY ' S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

FA M I LY

All Things Alpaca

MARK COCKSEDGE

Ongoing L AT H C OAT S FA R M , CHELMSFORD At All Things Alpaca, visitors are able to trek around the stunning orchards at Lathcoats Farm and spend time with their seven beautiful alpacas. Trekking with the boys, visitors have the chance to learn all about the alpaca and its history, whilst getting to know their alpaca and of course get lots of pictures.

This is the perfect day out for all the family when welcoming in a new year. allthingsalpacauk.co.uk

EV E N T

London Art Fair 19- 23 JA NUA RY, BUS I NE S S D E S I GN CEN TRE , ISLIN GTON

The London Art Fair returns to North London, highlighting a selection of the best galleries from the UK and beyond. The event will offer both seasoned and aspiring collectors a diverse presentation of modern and contemporary art, alongside curated displays, and an inspiring programme of talks, panel discussions and artists insights. londonartfair.co.uk

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A DV E N TUR E

Nuclear High Ropes Ongoing K E LV E D O N H AT C H , B R E N T WO O D One for the daredevils... The biggest highropes course in Essex has three levels, six different courses, 60+ elements, giant zipline and big drop all situated in the treetops. New facilities include a large registration cabin with harness room, induction zone and new course modifications. nuclearhighropes.co.uk

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

ART

Life with Art Until 18 April F I R ST S I T E , C O LC H E ST E R Lucian Freud, Maggi Hambling, John Nash… Just a few of the artists associated with the East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing established in 1940 by Cedric Morris and his partner Arthur Lett-Haines in their home, Benton End (left).

An exhibition at Art Fund Museum of the Year winner, Firstsite, will showcase for the first time the network of artists and cultural figures with links to the art school. firstsite.uk

ARTISTS TO WATC H

The Other Art Fair's Ryan Stanier top 3 artists to collect

KAY GASEI At The Other Art Fair London in July 2021, Kay Gasei was awarded The Kate Bryan Art Prize. His illustrative paintings explore symbolism, myths and narratives with characters set in timeless spaces as a means of understanding his own intellectual and ontological journey. They are both beautiful and meaningful. @kaygaseiart saatchiart.com/kaygasei

EV E N T

WEDDING FAIR

This Month’s Must See

16 January This wedding fair at The Lawn in Rochford offers a wonderful opportunity to meet leading exhibitors from the local area and beyond, and to discuss your wedding plans and ideas in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. All your questions will be answered, with refreshments on offer along with a warm welcome. For more weddings, turn to page 37. guidesforbrides.co.uk

PHOEBE BODDY

PHOEBE BODDY

G A SL IG H T BY PAT R IC K H A M I LT ON 20- 22 JA NUARY, LOPPIN G HALL , LOUGHTON

W

hy do the lights in the Manninghams house inexplicably dim? Why do things mysteriously disappear? Perhaps Mrs Manningham is losing her grasp of reality or are there more sinister forces at work? The unannounced arrival of retired detective Rough leads to the revelation of the shocking truth.

This compelling drama promises to grip its audience from the start.

Artist and foodie, Phoebe Boddy (above) explores the sensual experience of eating and uses the process of painting to explore the connections between flavour and colour. Together with chef Jay Sharp, she has also recently founded Palette Dining - a unique feasting experience that explores the sensory connections between Food and Art. @phoebeboddyartist saatchiart.com/phoebeboddy

CHLOE MCCARRICK Chloe McCarrick is best known for her circular cyanotypes and develops innovative ways of reworking photographic images through collage and mixed-media print techniques, and by blending science, darkroom alchemy and art. @chloe_mccarrick_fine_art saatchiart.com/chloemccarrick1 Learn more about The Other Art Fair at @theotherartfair theotherartfair.com

loppinghall.org.uk

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FREE TRIAL CLASS

New Studios & Treatment Rooms Now Open At The Post House Woodford Green

Visit our website today to register for a FREE Trial Class at Yoga on the Green. www.yoga-green.com

Based in the heart of Woodford Green, our two beautiful, spacious studios offer a calm and relaxed environment for Yoga, Pilates, Pilates Reformer and Mindfulness. A space to escape the stresses and strains of everyday life. A sanctuary for you.

020 8505 8504 info@yoga-green.com www.yoga-green.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @Yoga_On_The_Green

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CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

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he new year is the perfect time to get fit, but you don’t have to restrict yourself to the gym. Why not take a weekend walk in the county’s stunning country parks and along designated footpaths? Visit Essex, the tourism body for the county, has provided us with a wonderful selection of rural walks to help you shed those festive pounds.

THE ESSEX WAY

EPPING FOREST

Walk this

WAY

Why not make a new year’s resolution to walk The Essex Way over a series of weekends? The walk is an epic 81 miles across Essex, starting in Epping and ending on the coast at Harwich. The Essex Way showcases the true diversity of the county as it passes through ancient woodland, fields and meadows, river valleys, historic buildings, and beautiful villages and towns.

The route has many natural breaks that are not far from bus stops or train stations, making the 81 miles easy to break down into manageable sections. Highlights include a ramble through meandering Constable country as well as the magnificent views of the towering cranes sitting majestically on Harwich’s skyline.

SUZANNE ROSE

There are plenty of places in Essex that you can explore, perfect for working off the festive excess

By MARK KEBBLE

DEDHAM

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CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

CHELMER AND BLACKWATER NAVIGATION

WRABNESS CIRCULAR WALK

Take in spectacular estuarine views, culture and woodlands on this easy stroll. This two-mile circular walk starts at Wrabness train station and will lead you besides Grayson Perry’s masterpiece, ‘A House for Essex’, a dwelling dedicated to ‘Julie’, Grayson’s woman of Essex. The path then winds down to the banks of the Stour Estuary and on into Wrabness Woods, an Essex Wildlife Trust nature reserve, passing through fields and meadows.

There are plenty of additional paths if you wanted to extend the route and don’t forget your binoculars – there’s plenty of bird hides and migrating birds to discover.

THE FLITCH WAY

The former trainline that linked Bishop’s Stortford to Braintree is now a 15-mile path ESSEX HAS LOTS OF WALKS FOR ALL THE FAMILY TO ENJOY

“Walk in the footsteps of the artist Constable in an area much-loved for the painter's romanticised view of Essex” suitable for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. The route is a haven for wildlife: mammals, birds, flowers and insects, with the path passing the ancient royal hunting grounds of Hatfield Forest. The Flitch Way has several Victorian train stations along its course, and you can stop for a break at the former Rayne station, which is now a café with a railway carriage museum.

TURPIN’S TRAIL

The famous highwayman, Dick Turpin, was born in Hempstead and, legend has it, worked as a butcher in nearby Thaxted. There are three linked trails which take in places with a Turpin connection, via a six-mile circular walk of Great Sampford to Hempstead, which passes the Bluebell Inn, the birthplace of Turpin. The walk passes rivers, fields, ancient churches and is a wonderful stroll through the Essex countryside.

CHELMER AND BLACKWATER NAVIGATION

If you’re feeling fit, why not take on the 18mile Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation, which links the county town of Chelmsford to the River Blackwater at Heybridge Basin.

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The walk starts in the urban environment of the city, but soon enters the unspoilt Essex landscape, following the course of the Chelmer River and Blackwater Navigation through 13 locks. Visitors can treat themselves to a special pint at the end of the walk in Heybridge at one of the pretty lock-side pubs, or enjoy an afternoon tea at the Tiptree Tearoom.

CONSTABLE COUNTRY

Walk in the footsteps of the historic artist Constable in an area much-loved for the painter’s romanticised view of the Essex countryside. Starting at Manningtree train station, the walk meanders along the River Stour for two miles until you reach Flatford Mill, immortalised by Constable by his painting of The Haywain, which is currently celebrating its 200th birthday.

A further one and half miles will take to you the delightful village of Dedham.

Here you can relax, hire a rowing boat, stop at one of the village’s fine eateries, or wander around its independent stores.

See more ideas to take in the beautiful Essex landscape at visitessex.com

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BRIGHT FUTURE

It’s been an exciting 12 months for Epping local Romana Bright, but it feels like just the start for the Instagram star

By MARK KEBBLE

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

“TURNING 18 IN A GLOBAL PANDEMIC WAS A LITTLE OVERWHELMING, BUT I FOCUSED MY ENERGY ON WORK”

A

s a new year beckons, it’s always the ideal time for journalists like me to look at the potential breakout stars for the 12 months to follow – and Romana Bright is surely one of those. Instagram lovers will already know her (at the time of writing she has 108k followers and that’s growing at a rapid rate) and she has to be pretty special to stand out amongst all the noise on the platform, but perhaps she has the right kind of grounding to flourish even further.

Take growing up with a sister who became one of the hottest names in the gossip columns thanks to TOWIE. “Honestly, I was oblivious,” she says about when Lydia Bright was one of the stand out stars of the reality TV show.

“Lydia joined TOWIE when I was sevenyears-old, so I looked at it as if that was my normality. I struggled with bullying during high school though and her name was continuously brought up, it almost made me put a barrier against anything to do with her name. I’ve learnt to celebrate it though. It has brought me incredible

The It Crowd Romana Bright’s Essex picks What part of Essex do you live in and what do you love about it?

I live in the Epping Forest District and everyone knows everyone! You cannot walk into the shops without bumping into a friend, it is such a community here.

winter and watching The Holiday a hundred times over. I guess in a way I was a little relieved because I cannot imagine spending Christmas away from my family.”

She also deserves a little time off after a busy, but strange 2021. “It has been possibly the most confusing year,” she says.

“Turning 18 in a global pandemic was a little overwhelming, but I focused my time and energy on work. It has truly paid off and I’ve accomplished goals I thought were unreachable. I got to become the face of the George Asda womenswear collection, shot in Boux Avenue campaigns and was even invited to the NTAs (National TV Awards).

I feel beyond blessed, I almost cry every time I think back to these experiences.”

Despite some of the negative aspects of growing up with a famous sibling, it’s clear Bright has taken to being in the spotlight herself like a duck to water. “I’m a born Leo, so I think I was ready for the cameras as soon as I popped out,” she laughs. “I still get nervous on photoshoots, but I think photography is an expression of your true self, so I absolutely love it.” And the fame game? “I received so much love and support from my followers, we’re like a family. Of course, I get my fair share of haters, but I’ve grown to always look at the positives.”

An old head on young shoulders, perhaps, but her burning ambition is starkly evident.

“I want to continue to grow,” she says on the future. “I adore my job and always want to put 100% effort in. As of now, I don’t have a plan for 2022, I really live my life one day at a time. It would be an absolute dream to see myself in stores. Imagine walking out and passing yourself!?” Romana Bright best prepare herself to be surprised.

Follow Romana Bright on Instagram @romanaluciabright HERE AND ABOVE, SHOOTING FOR GEORGE AT ASDA

•

Can you pick out your three favourite places in the area?

Some of my absolute faves are Tom, Dick and Harry’s, The Belsit, and nothing beats Molens when you are hungover!

opportunities that I am truly thankful for.”

Bright is an open and warm interviewee, despite the fact that we are only talking thanks to Covid affecting travel plans over the festive period. “I was planning on travelling around Thailand with my best friend for the whole of December, but my backpacking dreams are postponed for now,” she laments, before adding and exemplifying a glass half full approach to life: “Instead I will be cosying up this A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Q A lot of children end up rebelling against their famous parents [his father is David Sullivan, currently joint chairman of West Ham United] – but given how early you started in football, did you always find your father’s work inspirational?

A I fell in love with football at around six-years-old, so I always dreamed of working in the sport. By about 11 I knew I wasn’t going to be good enough to play so I suppose the next best option was to work in it. I really love how the business side of football is, it’s about six different businesses in one big business! From commercial to ticketing to retail there is so much variety, it really makes every day exciting and so different. I also love the people side of football, thousands of fans make things so exciting. It’s such an unpredictable sport that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats with always so much happening on and off the pitch. It's a bug like no other.

Get to know…

JACK SULLIVAN EPPING SPORTS EXECUTIVE

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Q How did taking over as MD at West Ham Ladies come about?

A I left school at 16 and decided instead of A-levels I would go do an internship at West Ham United as I didn’t want to go to university – I wanted to learn the family business. After a year of working at the club I went to watch the WHUW vs Spurs at White Hart Lane. The game ended in a 4-0 defeat, but I really loved it and felt that we could really take the WHUW to the next level – and the rest is history. I was lucky enough that my dad believed in me to do the role and take the team from the third division to the WSL. Q Was there any self-doubt as a 17-year-old in such a key role?

A To be honest, I think there was more optimism and as a foolish 17-year-old, I really thought I could do anything – which I quickly found out wasn’t the case. I was extremely lucky at West

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CULTURE • PROFILE

HE'S PULLED ON HIS BOOTS AGAIN WITH DEBDEN FC

IN HIS ROLE AS MD AT WEST HAM LADIES

“I love the business side of football, it's like six businesses in one big business” Ham as we were supported by such a brilliant group of staff from the club.

Q What achievement are you proudest of in your time there?

A There are a mixture of personal and team achievements that we are all proud of. Personally, I think our best achievement as a team was reaching the FA Cup final in our first year as a professional side.

After an extremely tough season it gave us all such a sense of achievement.

A We are still in the cup so our target is to get as far in that as we can and hopefully have a positive league finish.

It’s only our first season as a team so we just want to do the best we can!

Q How professionally run is the club?

A The club is just a grassroots club. We

have eight teams currently as part of Debden and it has been fantastic. For our team it’s all about having a good time with your mates, which I think is great. Obviously, we want to win, but it’s all about that team camaraderie.

Debden has a real family feel, which is the whole point in Sunday league.

Q Since leaving, you have joined Debden FC – as manager?

A I am not managing Debden, I am actually playing for them! This summer a friend of mine decided to set a team up and there are about 25 of us that play. It has been fantastic and so much fun. I’ve really loved playing again and having a laugh with the team.

Q What are your targets for the rest of the season?

WOW HYDRATE IS SUPPORTING GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL

Q Does it help when you have the support of a company like WOW Hydrate?

A WOW Hydrate have been amazing, not only for Debden, but via their ‘Harry hydrates’ campaign – they have helped thousands of grassroots teams. We are WOW Hydrate’s local team, and we are so thankful for all they have done for us and grassroots. Their drinks are fantastic and really help us during and after the games. A lot of companies work with professional teams, so it’s great to see WOW work at both ends of the scale.

Q Do you live close to Debden?

A I live in Epping, so only about ten minutes

from Debden. I really love my area. Firstly I think the people are great and all my friends live around here. The transports links to London are fantastic also, which makes it easy to travel into town for work. However, my favourite thing is probably the amount of green spaces alongside also having lots of great restaurants and pubs around the area.

Q Are you looking forward to what 2022 holds in store?

A I’m hoping that 2022 is exciting, but who knows what it has in store. I’m hoping to start a few bits myself in 2022, however time will tell. On the football side I hope West Ham can have a strong end to the season and Debden can hopefully have a cup run too!

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CULTURE • COLUMN

TIME FOR

SOMETHING NEW? Why our West Essex columnist Hayley Smith won’t be resolving to change things as we welcome in 2022

“Personal growth, dreams and desires are important all year round”

I

am not a fan of the tradition of making new year’s resolutions, for two reasons.

Firstly, because resolutions do not work – well not for me anyway. In the past I’ve said, ‘learn something new’, ‘read more’, exercise more etc etc, basically wishes that have no target date and no consequences if you don’t achieve them.

And secondly, because I think one should set goals any time, no matter what month it is. Personal growth, dreams and desires are important all year round. So, with that in mind, my goal in life is to increase efficiency in my day-to-day jobs and tasks.

I have been reading up on The Pomodoro Technique, which is a time management method developed in the late 80s by Francesco Cirillo. Cirillo is the owner of Cirillo Consulting, a business based in Berlin that works with many of the world’s largest companies. He created the Pomodoro Technique, a renowned

time-management tool used by millions of people all over the world, while a university student looking for a way to get more done in less time. Cirillo’s core focus has always been improving productivity and efficiency, by finding ways to achieve better results with less time and less effort. The technique uses a timer to break work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. Each interval is known as a pomodoro, from the Italian word for tomato, after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo used as a university student. Sounds easy to stick to right?

So despite new year’s resolutions being a huge part of our culture for thousands of years, psychologists know that small goals lead to big success. New year resolutions should be for life, not just for 1 January: let national ‘Ditch your Resolution Day’ and ‘Fall off the Wagon Day’ come and go without you feeling guilty!

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FA S H I O N

LA FAMIGLIA LORETTA CAPONI

Loretta Caponi founded her namesake label in Florence in 1967 and today it continues to evolve its signature hand-embroidered clothing and linens. Now headed

by Loretta’s grandson, Guido, the label champions Italian heritage techniques (the catanella stitch is a signature) which are delicately married with modernity in whimsical, feminine pieces. matchesfashion.com

Charli Rogers 30 • The Shoot 32 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PERSONAL TOUCH

Q&A

Fashion expert Charli Rogers has launched a sister company to her pre-loved jewellery brand This Old Thing London, this time focusing on making your own jewellery

By MELANIE HEMPSTED

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FASHION • INTERVIEW

TIME FOR SOME DIY JEWELLERY

Q Tell us a bit about yourself…

A Growing up in Essex it was my dream

to go to the London College of Fashion from a young age. I graduated with a 1st in Fashion PR and, after a short stint in the industry, I decided to 'go it alone' and make my hobby of buying and selling fashion accessories a full time occupation.

Fifteen years ago, with £200, I started to buy and sell designer jewellery from markets and online, and in the meantime teaching myself about every tiny detail of the individual brands. When the company was big enough I decided to go to New York and meet a famous fashion dealer there who taught me the nuances of authenticating vintage Chanel. The rest – as they say – is history, and my company This Old Thing London has become one of the most famous pre-loved luxury brands in Europe.

Q What made you decide to

launch TOTL TomFoolery?

A TOTL TomFoolery came from a desire to bring our absolute passion for jewellery to a wide range of jewellery lovers. Inspired by the 'new normal' of working from home, home-schooling and with a focus on digital detox 'me time', we wanted to create an activity that could be delivered directly to the customer’s door. It was very important to us that the kit contained everything a jewellery lover needs to create bespoke, fun beaded jewellery at home either for a solitary moment with a glass of wine on a Friday night or an experience to share with the children as an educational artistic time out.

IBIZA IS THE SCENE OF ONE OF HER LATEST VENTURES

“It came from a desire to bring our passion to a wide range of jewellery lovers” Q Who inspires you?

A The list is endless! Over the past 15 years

I have tried to take on every single piece of advice offered to me from successful fashion dealers, entrepreneurs across many industries and friends. A great inspiration of mine is my friend, the celebrity fashion stylist Kyle De'Volle. He expresses himself so freely and doesn't let anything stand in his way. I have worked with many celebrity stylists over the years and we have dressed countless red carpets and main fashion spreads. Some of the most memorable being Rita Ora, Maya Jama, Nicole Scherzinger, Kaia Gerber, Abbey Clancy and Caroline Stanbury.

Q In one word, describe your life as an entrepreneur?

A Busy!

Q What would you put your success down to?

A I've always had a desire to push the boundaries. Creating and owning businesses is never easy and requires absolute dedication. My father is a businessman and I inherited a trait from him that means I never stop thinking about how I can make my businesses bigger and better. I am

motivated by ensuring that my businesses grow with integrity and offer my customers a genuinely fantastic product whether that is a Chanel necklace, a Hermès handbag or a TOTL TomFoolery jewellery making kit.

Q What are your plans for the future?

A The magical thing about owning

businesses is that there is no limit to what you can achieve as a team. There is no telling what the future holds and my top tip for being an entrepreneur is not to "over plan". It is great to have a rough idea of where you might like to be, but don't be too prescriptive with yourself. Give yourself space to grow, change and adapt. When Covid-19 hit we had to close our shop in West London and go fully online. This was never in our plans, but with creative interpretation of our "master plan" we have made it work. Our fantastic new company TOTL TomFoolery would never have been created if the events of the last year hadn't taken place and now we have been featured as the 'Best Craft Kit' in Country & Townhouse, You Magazine, SheerLuxe, PopSugar, The Sun and The Mirror!

Q Where are you taking TomFoolery next?

A Travel is a hugely important part of my

business. I regularly travel to New York, Miami and all across Europe to meet clients and suppliers. Seven years ago I started collaborating with the incredible Annie Doble in Ibiza. We have been stocking TOTL pre-loved luxury accessories in her famous shop "Annies" in Ibiza Old Town and been selling fabulous pieces to Ibiza DJs, party 'IT' girls and White Isle lovers ever since. totltomfoolery.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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B R I G H T E N u p y o u r W A R D R O B E Start 2022 with a splash of colour and pattern thanks to Fabienne Chapot, stocked at Ursula & Odette in Leigh-on-Sea F A B I E N N E C H A P O T. C O M

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WEDDINGS

PICTURE PERFECT B RA XT E D PA R K Here's hoping 2022 is when weddings get back on track, and in Essex we have plenty of stunning venues. Braxted Park is one highlight, with the venue in Witham offering plenty of facilities for both brides and grooms.

Read more on page 41.

Country House Weddings 38 • Wivenhoe House 43 • Down Hall 44 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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TOM HALLIDAY

GOSFIELD HALL'S BALLROOM

LEEZ PRIORY OFFERS A STUNNING BACKDROP

To open this wedding venue special,

Nick Bramer of Country House Weddings talks about two unique Essex locations 38

Q Is it something of a hidden gem?

A Absolutely. It’s hard to capture the magic of Leez Priory in words alone.

Surrounded by ancient woodlands, gardens, parkland, lakes and skirted

LAVENHAM PHOTOGRAPHIC

Leez Priory & Gosfield Hall

Q What’s the history behind Leez Priory?

A Leez is absolutely steeped in history, so much so that part of the site including the Barns is classed as an Ancient Monument by English Heritage – granting it the highest level of protection possible in English Law. The beginnings of the Priory can be traced all the way back to 1220 when the site was chosen by Augustinian Friars as being the perfect location for a Priory. Following the dissolution of the monasteries in 1536, the priory was destroyed, and the land granted

by Henry VIII to his lord Chancellor, Sir Richard Rich, who set about building a mansion to rival that of Hampton Court. Unfortunately, in 1735 a large part of the house was destroyed, leaving behind what we now know as the Main House, carriage way (including its original oak doors), and Great Tower.

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TOM HALLIDAY

WEDDINGS • VENUES SPECIAL

A P

by the river Ter, it’s not hard at all to understand why the Friars chose this site for their priory back in 1220.

Irrespective of the season, it has this magical hidden garden feel – with so much to explore and discover – you really have to see it to believe it.

Q What stand out features are there in the grounds?

A Leez is a wedding photographer’s dream! There are so many amazing photo opportunities, whether it’s in front of the original 16th century oak carriage way doors, or by the lake and fountain – the real dilemma is which shots to choose in the time that is available. There is also an amazing selection of ceremony options – with two carriage ways, couples can choose between four options for an outdoor ceremony – our favourite though has to be in the courtyard with the splendid Great Tower as your backdrop.

GOSFIELD HALL'S HONEYMOON SUITE... QUITE THE SETTING

“Leez Priory is a wedding photographer's dream”

Q What kind of wedding ceremonies are on offer?

A In addition to our outdoor ceremony options, for days when the weather is not on side, our couples can choose between the more intimate Great Tower with spiral staircase access, high beamed ceilings and original leaded glass windows, and the rustic Coach House for larger affairs.

This Tudor Barn has bare redbrick walls, exposed beams and large cast iron chandeliers – perfect for those looking for a country theme.

it gets sun all day long and is the perfect place for welcome drinks on a summer’s day. The adjoining library with large sash windows and bar and disco nearby makes for a magical retreat as the night draws in.

Q What are the wedding options here?

A Queen Charlotte's oak-panelled Gallery affords every bride an amazing entrance, thanks to its 120-foot-long aisle. The dual-aspect windows flood the room with light – the photographers love it.

In the Grand Salon, the original handpainted ceiling and double-height sash windows make this a bright and airy space in which to say 'I do'.

The feature fireplace is a beautiful backdrop, and the baby grand piano offers live musical accompaniment.

For warmer days, couples can opt for an outside ceremony. The original carriage way is our licensed setting for this, and you can choose from the inner or the outer courtyard setting.

Q And what kind of dining and party options are there too?

A The Great Hall is ideal for intimate dining of up to 74 guests, seated under exposed beams with a feature fireplace. The more rustic Coach House barn can seat up to 100 guests and offers authentic country charm.

Q How different is Gosfield Hall as a setting?

A If Leez Priory catered for Monks and the Tudors, Gosfield Hall truly flourished in the Elizabethan and Georgian eras where it served as a Royal Palace for the likes of Queen Elizabeth I, Marquis of Buckingham and exiled King Louis XVIII of France.

The magnificent Ball Room, stunning Rococo Honeymoon Suite and Grand Salon are all original period features that our wedding guests can now enjoy.

Q Finally, why should we opt for a Country House Wedding?

A Our stunning venues have been hand-picked specifically for delivering dream weddings for our couples – it’s literally all we do. countryhouseweddings.co.uk LEEZ PRIORY HAS SEVEN DIFFERENT LICENCED CEREMONY OPTIONS

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Q Again, what are the stand out features in the grounds?

A My favourite is the cocktail terrace, south facing and overlooking the fountain, stags and lake beyond,

JASMIN JADE

LAVENHAM PHOTOGRAPHIC

Q It’s in Constable Country, so picturesque?

A Improvements by Earl Nugent in the mid-18th century has endowed the Hall with landscaped gardens, stunning parkland and views of Gosfield Lake – all of which were undertaken in order to entertain guests of high society including the Prince of Wales.

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A M A G I C A L D AY The stunning grounds of Down Hall are the perfect setting for your wedding, whether lavish or intimate. downhall.co.uk

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WEDDINGS • VENUES SPECIAL

Braxted PARK Exploring the historic

Witham venue, which offers an all in one opportunity

I

f you are looking for the perfect country house wedding venue in Essex, then look no further than the wonderfully private Braxted Park Estate near Witham. Whether you wish for a summer or a winter wedding, a church or civil ceremony, imagine it taking place at the beautiful Braxted Park. You will be able to enjoy the exclusive use of this stunning country estate and historic parkland.

Braxted Park is able to offer a variety of different sized rooms within the main house and incredible 18th century Walled Gardens, with capacity ranging from 30 to 350 guests. Situated within the Estate itself is the local parish church of All Saints, which

offers the opportunity of holding your entire wedding in one location.

Why not complement your wedding with an overnight stay? Accommodation is available for up to 24 guests in 12 highly appointed en-suite converted stable rooms. The bride and groom will stay in the luxurious and modern Garden Cottage, with a variety of bedrooms and living space along with a private lavender garden where, in the summer

months, breakfast is served to the newly married couple.

Braxted Park truly is one of the best wedding venues in Essex, if not East Anglia. Show arounds are available every day by prior arrangement.

B R A X T E D PA R K 01494 350333 weddings@braxtedpark.com braxtedpark.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Twilight Weddings Get married at Wivenhoe House Hotel, a beautiful, secluded, grade II listed country house hotel, on the outskirts of Colchester and surrounded by breathtaking Essex parkland and views!

Packages from £5999 Make use of our fantastic Twilight and mid-week wedding offers, an all-inclusive* package available for Monday-Thursday weddings taking place from April to October 2022! Enquire today and speak to one of our lovely wedding planners.

We can’t wait to show you around our stunning venue and turn your dreams into a reality!

01206 878450 | events@wivenhoehouse.co.uk wivenhoehouse.co.uk/weddings * Terms and conditions apply.

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WEDDINGS • VENUES SPECIAL

WHIRLWIND ROMANCE

Wivenhoe HOUSE Inside the Colchester venue that promises to turn your dreams into a reality

W

ivenhoe House’s beautiful, 18th century country house hotel, parkland setting and expert team will all come together to ensure your wedding will have the ‘wow’ factor. Even the price will leave you pleasantly surprised.

Start your day in their traditional Drawing Room or out in the Gazebo on the Sunken Lawn, before moving to the contemporary Garden Suite for your celebration meal and dancing. The transition is simple and seamless.

Your happiness is their priority, which is why they only hold one wedding a day, promising you the undivided attention of their professional dedicated wedding team. Should you wish for total privacy, they also offer an exclusive private use option

including all the bedrooms available at a supplement.

They make your wedding journey memorable from start to finish and you can now enjoy every milestone of your planning journey at Wivenhoe House, as they have launched their hen party packages. From afternoon tea, pamper hampers, cocktail making masterclasses, delicious food and drink, and luxurious bedrooms, their packages include everything to make this celebration one to remember.

Wivenhoe House has been impressing visitors for nearly 250 years and the current team aim to uphold that tradition.

A closer look at Wivenhoe House’s Whirlwind Wedding Package, from £5,999 This is an all inclusive package available for Monday-Thursday weddings taking place from April to October 2022. The Whirlwind Wedding Package is inclusive of the following: The personal attention of their dedicated wedding team from your first visit through to the last dance; • Room hire for the ceremony, wedding breakfast and evening reception; • Luxury room for the bride and groom on the night of the wedding; • A delicious Wivenhoe House breakfast, which can be enjoyed in the privacy of your room the morning following your wedding; • Arrival drink; • Three course meal with coffee and Petit Fours; • Half bottle of wine per person; • Sparkling toast; • Evening buffet; • Table linen, crockery, cutlery, glassware and cake knife; • Dance floor; • Ample car parking.

WIVENHOE HOUSE Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3FA • 01206 878450 events@wivenhoehouse.co.uk wivenhoehouse.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Down Hall Hotel SPA & ESTATE The picturesque Bishop’s Stortford venue can adapt to any wedding – and even has special his and hers areas to prepare for the big day

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WEDDINGS • VENUES SPECIAL

DOWN HALL OFFERS AN ELEGANT SETTING

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estled in a beautiful corner of the serene Essex countryside and with a history dating back almost a thousand years, the award-winning Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate offers the perfect setting to realise the wedding of your dreams. The earliest records show that Down Hall was already a thriving estate during the reign of Edward the confessor (10421066), changing hands numerous times over the centuries.

The Hall was lovingly restored at the turn of the millennium, establishing itself as one of the most renowned wedding venues in the South of England. The 110-acre estate of picturesque woodland and landscaped gardens is anchored by the Italianate architectural splendour of the Hall at its heart. When walking amid the elegant and peaceful grounds of Down Hall, it’s all too easy to forget that you’re only 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of central London.

But for all of the natural beauty of its surroundings, the hall itself is the jewel of the estate. Down Hall boasts over 98 separate rooms, all beautifully decorated with modern contemporary twists on classic country style, and complete with all the modern amenities your heart could desire. Flooded with natural light and boasting tranquil views across the expansive estate and gardens, the hall is able to cater to and accommodate your guest list, regardless of the size of your wedding.

Down Hall’s greatest offering is its adaptability. There are a

THE PAGODA

“The hall was lovingly restored at the turn of the millennium” number of ceremony and reception spaces for you to choose from throughout the main building and grounds. Their rooms and suites are individually designed with subtle and soothing colour palettes to match the character and elegance of the hall, which houses three bars and a variety of breathtaking outdoor ceremony spaces to choose from. They‘re able to accommodate and elevate every wedding, from smaller more intimate ceremonies to the grandest and most extravagant of weddings, with their license allowing them to accommodate as many as 180 overnight guests.

The largest of their suites, The Bridgeman suite, is able to host as many as 250 guests for an evening reception, and everything is tailored to your specifications, from the entertainment to the lighting, even stretching to offer you a variety of dancefloors.

The spring of 2019 saw the completion of their refurbished west wing with its own private entrance, picturesque gardens, private lobby and bar. They also have something for him and for her. The newly finished Glasscock suite is tailored to the needs of

grooms and their groomsman.

It’s somewhere to relax, play pool, watch TV or quell any potential pre-nuptial nerves by spending some time on their PlayStation.

Their prized Eden boutique spa is the perfect space for the bridal party to unwind and take advantage of everything from their steam room, sauna, to their outdoor terrace, and a variety of luxurious pampering treatments.

Everything that happens at Down Hall is made possible by the tireless efforts of their experienced team of experts. From their specialist wedding co-ordinators who will create your ideal wedding from the ground up, to their awardwinning chef who works tirelessly to bring the very best of locally sourced offerings and cuisines to the table. They love what they do and their team are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to make your dream wedding a reality.

D OW N H A L L H OT E L , S PA & E S TAT E Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Bishop's Stortford, CM22 7AS 01279 731441 downhall.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY S

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Bupa Global is a trading name of Bupa Insurance Limited and Bupa Insurance Services Limited. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Bupa Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Global Virtual Care is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority nor the Prudential Regulation Authority.

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PROMOTIONAL OFFER o n E M sella P elv i c F lo o r T h erap y and E M S c ulp t b o d y c o nto uri ng Book in January and February and have a 50% discount off your treatment

Colchester Medical Aesthetics Clinic offers a wide range of aesthetic treatments for face and body including: • Laser hair removal

• Medically led weight management

• Anti wrinkle injections

• Radio frequency for laxity and cellulite treatment

• Dermal Fillers • Injectable Platelet Rich Fibrin(IPRF)

• Laser treatments • Aesthetic Gynaecology

and much more All treatments carried out using the very latest equipment and technology

15a High Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 1DA | info@colchester-medical-aesthetics.com | 01206 575155 | 077 3704 3608

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

EDITOR’S PICK

FEELING

plumped

Start your day by deeply hydrating, visibly plumping, and protecting with RoC® Multi Correxion® Hydrate + Plump Moisturizer SPF30. This clinically proven gel-cream formula uses the power of pure Hyaluronic Acid to plump away lines and wrinkles, while providing UVA/B protection. £35.99

S

rocskincare.co.uk

Sleep easy ELEMIS

Wake up to dreamy skin with this luxurious sleeping cream. Ideal for all skin types, the prebiotic overnight sleeping cream leaves dry, thirsty skin feeling silky, soft, radiant and replenished upon waking up. This skinquenching cream works through the night with an indulgent formula infused with Camu Camy, a well-known source of Vitamin C. £40 elemis.com

OJA R

Match your natural radiance with the enchanting scent of Ojar’s Wadi Bloom Absolute perfume oil.

When applied to your natural pulse points, its floral aroma intensifies, beginning a journey through notes of bergamot, ylang ylang and jasmine that waft around a dry base of patchouli, sandalwood and delectable honey. £130,

A SOFT TOUCH Visiting Super Soft Laser Clinic in Halstead

ROC

FEAST FOR THE SENSES

FOCUS

uper Soft Laser Clinic Ltd was established in October 2020 by mum of two, Danielle Cook. She had been in the beauty industry for approximately five years prior before moving into laser hair removal.

In 2020, she was introduced to The Smart Group who offered market leading machines for hair removal and just knew that this was something that she wanted to be apart of. Being in the beauty industry herself, she knew the struggles of beauty treatments which were either painful or just didn’t give the results her clients desired that over time would become costly.

Therefore, the leap was taken and Super Soft Laser Clinic Ltd was created with the focus being effective, affordable and pain free hair removal for all. Their SMARTDiode machine can be used on all Fitzpatrick skin types 1-6 no matter what sex you are, all over the body, with amazing results every time.

The laser works by targeting the pigmentation in the hair follicles causing them to breakdown. This is a very safe treatment and is particularly recommended for people with pale skin and dark hair. Laser hair removal can prevent ingrown hairs and will not leave behind any nasty rashes.

After a course of 6-10 treatments, you would only require a single top-up session once every 4-6 months.

What are you waiting for?

Ditch that razor today...

SUPER SOFT LASER CLINIC

Ramsey Road, Halstead 07985606294 supersoftlaserclinic.co.uk

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S p r e a d i n g T H E L O V E Fran Allen was thrust into the spotlight thanks to Love Island, but now is aiming to help others feel good about themselves

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • INTERVIEW

Q Has being in full view of the public

led you to take more of an interest in your own mental health?

A Yes definitely, I’ve learnt that it’s good to take time out for yourself and not have to share everything you do. It’s also taught me not to care about people’s opinions – not everyone has to like me or like what I do. I think it’s what has kept me sane in this industry thinking this way!

Q How do you like to keep healthy,

both in body and mind?

A I love to exercise! Even if it’s just a walk

in the forest, I think it’s a great way to shut off, have some time to yourself and it keeps me feeling happy and energised. I love nutrition and all things that are good for you, eating a mainly healthy balanced diet and regular supplements helps me feel good and my mind clear too. I’m a massive believer in you are what you eat.

Q You have launched your own

business recently – a salon – so how have you found this?

A It’s something really different for me.

I do have a beauty background so was exciting to re-visit this, but it was a big project, a total transformation of a building and was a lot to do in a short amount of time – but I loved it and the challenge of it also. The final result was so rewarding.

Q Who is it aimed at?

A Everyone! It’s a membership scheme

so we hope it will be a place, a community where people can come feel homely, switch BONNIE & CLYDE IS A HIT IN LOUGHTON

“I HAVE LEARNT THAT IT'S GOOD TO TAKE TIME OUT FOR YOURSELF AND NOT HAVE TO SHARE EVERYTHING YOU DO” off and be taken care of, and leave happy, pampered and relaxed. Of course we hope to offer more types of treatments in the future and perhaps even have more salons!

Q And how about other business ventures?

A I’m currently working on a more

sustainable way to dress through rentals.

It’s also a way for people to have access to brands at a more affordable rate, and by being on loan means that people can have access to a wider range and selection of bags you could only dream of having. I love the latest trends and fashions that come about, but also find it hard to keep up when bags are so expensive, so I’m really excited to offer this to people. I’ve decided to name it My Sister’s Closet, as growing up I’ve always borrowed from my sister, she always had all the best bits and still does! It’s a fun concept and I’m excited to see how it goes. We are hoping to launch the app in March, too.

of the week, it’s like a home from home for me, this is where I really found my feet with styling others and experimenting with different styles. My customers feel like my friends, it’s such a great place for women to come to shop and chat!

Also my favourite organic coffee grocery store along the same High Road, Woodstock and Organico. They serve up the best coffees and juices. And for food I love Quindici. It’s an Italian restaurant and I actually used to work there when I was a teen when it was a bar called 15. It’s still the same owners!

Q What are you looking

forward to most in 2022?

A Everything! I feel like I’ve got so much

going on and a lot of hard work to be done, but I’m excited for the challenges.

Q And finally, any new year resolutions?

A I never make resolutions as I just think

some of your local Essex favourites?

I should always be bettering myself. And I think it’s healthy to set goals regularly, be it with work or personal life helping others.

clothing store Bonnie and Clyde in Loughton High Road! I’m there most days

Follow the latest from Fran Allen on social media channels @francesca_allen

Q Away from work, can you pick out A Well, obviously mine and my sister’s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SLEEP

“The patented Contour Pocket System has a unique cushioning ability”

SLEEP SECRETS How to achieve the perfect night’s sleep?

Start with the perfect mattress

By EVE HERBERT

T

he perfect night’s sleep is the holy grail of life.

The quality of our sleep defines our day – and a good night will always lead to happier, more productive and successful waking hours. But how to achieve it? Most important is, of course, the bed itself.

Swedish bed company Carpe Diem Beds was founded 25 year ago by chiropractor Börje Thuleskär, a firm believer in the importance of sleep for body and mind.

He sought out the best mattress on the market, but wasn’t impressed by it and one day fell asleep on a bed of heather by the sea in Sweden – where he realised that nature contoured to his body far more than any bed ever had. This led him to embark on a quest to build the perfect

bed, one that would mimic the feeling of weightlessness he had had on the heather.

This quest took thousands of hours and a partnership with the Spinal Unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. The final result is Carpe Diem Beds' patented Contour Pocket System, which has a unique cushioning ability. It gently yields and supports at the same time, instantly moulding to your body’s contours and changing with your every movement.

You can feel the mattress embrace your hips and shoulders while gently supporting your lumbar and waist. Your spine is relieved of tension, and your muscles can finally relax.

The sensation is unique: almost weightless and quite unlike most standard mattresses.

Just like lying on a bed of heather on the cliffs by the Swedish sea, in fact.

Carpe Diem Beds opened a showroom on Wigmore Street last year, where visitors can experience the company’s ethos first hand. Its innovative approach is visible on their website, where an interactive bed configurator introduces the available options, revealing how each bed can be matched with personal preferences. Each bed is customisable in size, finish and fabrics. Top of the range is Vindö, the most innovative adjustable bed that offers automatic lumbar and neck support, with head and foot rests that can be lowered or raised to suit your needs. It has a variety of massage functions that can be controlled via an app, as well as built in under-bed lighting. Skaftö is Carpe Diem Beds’ most exclusive continental bed and its moveable mid-section can be adjusted, with built-in back support customised by remote control.

There’s no better single route to wellbeing for body and soul than rest and sleep, and that’s why a Carpe Diem bed is a longterm investment in your overall health.

Oliver Bootmann, VP Brand of Carpe Diem Beds, says: “Why compromise when you don’t have to? Beds can and should soothe both the body and the soul.”

CA R P E D I E M B E D S 15 Wigmore Street, W1, 020 3982 3252 carpediembeds.co.uk

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KICKSTART YOUR NEW YEAR WITH A TRANSFORMATIVE 8 WEEK CHALLENGE AT F45 NOAK HILL

Save £50 with an Early Bird Discount!

Until the 21st January. Book your Free Health Consultation and Complimentary 1 Day Trial Session by emailing: Noakhill@f45training.co.uk.

Challenge starts on The 31st January!

The programme includes:

If you’re looking to improve your physical and mental wellbeing this 2022 then kickstart your new year by signing up the latest training programme at F45 Noak Hill. Designed by leading instructors, our 8 Week Challenge will leave you feeling leaner, stronger and fitter than you ever imagined. F45 Noak Hill is the ultimate high-intensity, circuit-based group training concept which will challenge and motivate you, and keep you coming back for more.

•

Unlimited access to over 50 classes per week with a mix of low and high impact classes, for beginners through to advanced

•

Structured, simple meal plans that consider cravings, hormones and metabolism.

Results-driven while saying no to frustrating fads! (Suitable for omnivore, vegetarian and vegan diets)

•

Weekly 1-2-1 accountability and goal tracking sessions to keep you on track

•

Before and after body scans and photos, essential for tracking progress

•

Essex’ most supportive and ego-free fitness environment with community-focused team led by head trainer, Lucy Hill

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

“Boxers tend to have the bestdeveloped muscles in the abdomen region” is often called the boxer's muscle because boxers tend to have the best-developed muscles in the abdomen region.

IT IMPROVES BONE MINERAL DENSIT Y

T A K I N G A H I T The founder of Essex-based Brookside Aesthetics on the workout that packs a real punch

By KAREN CHESTER

H

ave you considered if boxing workouts with a professional trainer will benefit you? I had the pleasure of meeting up with Mark Massow, a Professional (BBBoC) boxing manager, trainer and matchmaker who owns 'The Sweet Science Studio'.

Here are six surprising benefits of boxing that I learnt from him.

IT AIDS WEIGHT LOSS Boxing training has been shown to decrease body fat and improve overall body composition more than other activities. For example, a 150-pound (68kg) person can burn 390–558 calories, or more if conditioning exercises are included, in a 60-minute session.

BOXING SCULPTS THE MID-SECTION OF YOUR ABS A common misconception is that boxing is merely an arms workout. When you attend a boxing workout class, you will be working your core body. Boxing is very effective at developing muscle that sculpts the ultimate abdominal region. When sculpting the midsection, most people fall short of their potential by simply focusing on the 6-pack and neglecting the serratus anterior. The SA ties the entire abdomen together and

The force that passes through the hands and arms stimulate bones to mineralise and strengthen; ultimately, it can reduce the risk of developing osteopenia or osteoporosis and potentially even reverse the conditions in some cases.

BOXING RELIEVES STRESS There are many effective ways to manage stress, from breathing techniques to meditation, listening to music, and my personal favourite – letting out some frustration on a punching bag. I like to call this controlled aggression in a safe environment. Plus, knowing self-defence is a great confidence-booster. Finally, the endorphin release that accompanies a strenuous workout is another one of the clear benefits of boxing.

IT FIRES UP THE HEART AND LUNGS Boxing is one of the best cardio-respiratory workouts you can do. The fitness of a boxer is often unparalleled in sports. There's not a muscle that goes unworked when you join a boxing workout session. It targets them all; your heart and lungs are forced into working extra hard to deliver oxygenated blood to the working muscles so that you can maintain a high work output.

BOXING HELPS BUILD SHOULDER BOULDERS One of the boxing benefits for males includes the building up of shoulder muscles. It's no surprise that the deltoids get a great workout. Boxing requires both type 1 and type 2 muscular contractions, aka slow and fast-twitch contractions. If you currently train your shoulders in the gym with weights, boxing might be the plateau-breaker you're looking for.

Find out more about Mark Massow at sweetsciencestudio.com, and for more on Karen Chester and Brookside Aesthetics, visit brookside-aesthetics.com

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SCHWINN IC8 INDOOR CYCLE

“Infinite resistance levels and a range of sweat-inducing programmes”

FIT FOR 2022 Optimise your home routines with equipment from Fitness Superstore

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SCHWINN IC8

 Immerse yourself in the world of virtual races and trainer-led studio classes from the comfort of your own home with the Schwinn IC8 Indoor Cycle. Delivering a smooth, quiet cycling experience that’s simply hard to beat, the IC8 is a musthave for those intense cycling sessions.

The IC8 comes complete with 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels and a generous full colour backlit LCD display that tracks your time, distance, calories and more. What’s more, it’s compatible with some of your favourite fitness apps, including Peloton, JRNY™ and Zwift™.

Try the IC8 for yourself at your nearest Fitness Superstore.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROMOTION

BOWFLEX TREADMILL 56 SCHWINN AIRDYNE AD8

SCHWINN AD8

 Bring your HIIT workouts home with the Schwinn Airdyne AD8, the ultimate high intensity training tool. Thanks to its spacesaving structure, infinite resistance levels and range of sweat-inducing programmes, you’re able to target all body parts on the AD8 while torching calories fast.

Keep track of your workout stats down to the exact mark with the multi-display LCD console, showing you calories, watts, time, speed and more. Capable of burning up to 80 calories per minute, using the Schwinn AD8 is as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical one – if your goal is to push yourself further than you thought possible, the AD8 is for you.

BOWFLEX KETTLEBELL

 Hit your fitness goals with the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell, the perfect strength training addition to any home gym setup. Eliminating the need to buy multiple kettlebells, the 840 contains six weights in its compact design for a home workout tool that’s both convenient and versatile enough to keep up with you as you progress.

With just the turn of a dial, you can easily adjust from 3.5 to 18kg, rapidly switching from one exercise to the next. Simply select your desired weight and lift the kettlebell out of its dock, with its ergonomic handle A HEALTHY START TO LIFE IS KEY AT WILD TRAINING offering a secure grip throughout.

BOWFLEX SELECTTECH 840 KETTLEBELL

BOWFLEX TREADMILL 56

 Complete with a breathtaking 22” HD touchscreen, the Bowflex Treadmill 56 truly stands out from the crowd.

A top-of-the-line cardio offering, the Treadmill 56 provides the coaching, motivation and variety you need to stay immersed in your fitness journey.

Elevate your runs with inclines from -5% to 20%, striding on a deck that’s large enough to accommodate all users and is enhanced with Comfort Tech™ cushioning technology. Compatible with the JRNY™ app, runners can experience voice-coached workouts that automatically adapt as your running improves, explore 50+ scenic locations from around the world, or stream shows from existing Netflix, Amazon and Disney+ accounts.

BOWFLEX MAX TRAINER M8

 Gear up for a fitter you with the award-winning Max Trainer M8 from Bowflex – your answer to maximum calorie burn in less time. Featuring the innovative 14-minute MAX Interval™ workout, this world-renowned machine combines intense intervals with short recovery times to deliver the results you want in under a quarter of an hour.

At a fraction of the size of most ellipticals, the M8 is the epitome of form meeting function. Its small footprint means you can get a gym-quality workout, enjoying personalised coaching and trainer-led sessions with JRNY™ app compatibility, from nearly any room in the home.

BOWFLEX MAX TRAINER M8

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Reach your Weight Lose Goals with Brookside Aesthetics The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Planner will be Available at Brookside Aesthetics from January If you want to reach your weight lose goal give us a call or email us for further information

01245 363 889 enquire@brookside-aesthetics.com | brookside-aesthetics.com

Laser Hair Removal in Halstead There are so many different options when it comes to hair removal, from waxing to threading and shaving to tweezing, but laser hair removal is one of the few options that offers a permanent approach to getting rid of body hair, without the pain and inconvenience of the never ending appointments to the salon.

Super Soft Laser Clinic Ltd could well be offering you a permanent hair removal solution you've been waiting for. Just imagine, no more waxing appointments!

Halstead, Essex 07958 606294 supersoftlaserclinic.co.uk

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Absolutely Essex Readers Offers

10% off

on the 1st treatment Valid until December 2022

17/12/2021 12:08

HEALTH & BEAUTY • STAYCATION

Take a BREAK

Need a new year refresher, but can’t travel too far afield? Kiran Dulai of The George Hotel in Colchester says they will be able to offer you that January pick me up THERE'S A CHOICE OF ROOMS ON OFFER

THE SECRET COURTYARD

Q What has the response been like

to The George’s refurbishment?

A We have had overwhelmingly positive

feedback since we reopened in May. Our guests love the décor, ambience and the ‘new George in town’. People appreciate the nature of the 500-yearold building and its tasteful and delicate restoration back to its former glory.

Q What is the staycation deal

you are currently offering?

A Our fabulous winter staycation offers our guests up to two nights free when they book an extended staycation directly with us. For example, book for three consecutive nights for the price of two, book five consecutive nights for the price of three, and book seven consecutive nights for the price of five. We have even thrown in a delicious breakfast each morning.

Q Do you think January is the perfect

time to get away for a few days after the stresses of Christmas?

A January is a great time. Hotels are nice and quiet after the mad Christmas rush, so it’s the perfect time to relax and unwind. Rates are also very reasonable compared to December where hotels are generally very busy.

Q Do you think many hotels can offer the

kind of history you have at The George?

fountain. The George also has a 24hour dedicated reception for guests as well as a fantastic private dining space featuring a bespoke dining table, Bang and Olufsen speaker and flat screen TV. XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Q Do you also think there’s plenty

to explore around Colchester?

A The George is one of a kind, with its 500 years of rich history as a former coaching inn. The George Hotel has proudly sat on Colchester High Street in Essex and has always been at the centre of bustling life in England’s oldest recorded town and with historical artefacts, medieval cellars dated back to AD60, period features and beautiful beams. It really is one of a kind and a place to remember.

Q What facilities make

The George stand out?

A We have a range of rooms: heritage

doubles, twins, single, feature rooms and suites. The George has a beautiful bar lounge and restaurant with comfortable luxurious seating. There is also an al fresco Moroccan-inspired Secret Courtyard, which is covered and features a water

A Colchester is a very historic and

charming town. The high street is full of fabulous retail shops and restaurants.

Colchester Castle Park is great for exploring, as well as enjoying a day out at The Zoo or Beth Chatto Gardens.

Q What else does The George

have planned for 2022?

A This year is all about ensuring our

customers get great food, a comfortable stay and exceptional service throughout.

The last two years have been a challenge for the industry with the pandemic, but we are prepared for a better and bigger year.

T H E G E O R G E H OT E L 116 High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TD 01206 578494 suryahotels.co.uk/thegeorgehotel

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Why wait? Private healthcare appointments are available now.

Whether you have an ongoing health concern, you’re waiting for NHS treatment, or want a second opinion, you can access specialist healthcare now.

Our areas of expertise include:

✓ Bone and joint pain ✓ Breast care ✓ Cardiology ✓ Cosmetic surgery ✓ Diagnostics ✓ Digestive health ✓ Ear, nose and throat conditions

✓ General medical conditions

✓ General surgery ✓ Gynaecology

✓ Men’s health ✓ Ophthalmology ✓ Pain management ✓ Physiotherapy ✓ Podiatry ✓ Private GP ✓ Skin conditions ✓ Spinal pain ✓ Sports injuries ✓ Urology ✓ Varicose veins ✓ Women’s health

Specialist appointments from

£200* For appointments call 0203 432 5527 For self-pay prices call 0203 740 9770 email selfpay@theholly.com

The Holly Private Hospital, High Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex IG9 5HX theholly.com/selfpay *Subject to availability

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Ease the PAIN

Steroid injections in the hip or knee: what you need to know

By MANDEEP LAMBA

M

illions of people worldwide are affected by joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis (when joints become painful and stiff), tendonitis (the swelling of a tendon, which is a thick cord attaching a muscle to a bone), and bursitis (the painful swelling of a joint, often caused by repetitive movement or an injury).

These conditions can cause debilitating pain and major problems with movement. If lifestyle changes and oral medications do not relieve your symptoms, you may be offered steroid injections to treat painful knees or hips.

Q What is a steroid injection

and how can it help?

A Steroid injections are used to treat

painful musculoskeletal conditions in the lower limbs, including: • osteoarthritis of the hips and knees • inflammatory joint disease • other conditions affecting the joints You usually have steroid injections in the outpatient department of a hospital. The injection itself takes only a few minutes.

Q Are steroid injections safe?

A Steroid injections are a safe, quick

and proven way to relieve joint pain and inflammation (swelling). Most patients’ symptoms improve within a few days. Pain relief can often last for several months.

Q Is a steroid injection painful?

A Like any injection, a steroid injection

can be a bit uncomfortable at the time.

Any discomfort is only temporary. You also have a local anaesthetic to make the area that is treated numb. This means that you experience as little pain as possible.

Q Do steroid injections

have any side effects?

A Occasionally, there may be a flare-up

of joint pain within the first 24 hours after a steroid injection. This usually settles by taking simple painkillers like paracetamol. Other side effects include infection, bruising and skin discolouration, but these happen very infrequently.

Q Will steroid injections

make me put on weight?

A A small amount of steroid is used and

accurately placed into the joint. This means that the effects on the rest of your body

MANDEEP LAMBA

are minimal. The steroids in the injections are medically proven to be effective for joint pain. They are not anabolic or oral steroids associated with weight gain.

Q Will steroids increase my chance

of getting coronavirus (Covid-19)?

A Steroids work by reducing inflammation.

They are injected into the joint or nearby soft tissues and never into the bloodstream. Recent evidence shows that musculoskeletal steroid injections do not increase your risk of getting coronavirus.

It is recommended, however, that you wait at least two weeks either side of your coronavirus vaccine before having a steroid injection.

Q Are steroid injections effective?

A In most cases, a single steroid injection

is sufficient, but in other cases you may need another injection. This may be part of a treatment plan that includes analgesics (pain-relieving drugs) and physiotherapy. You can safely have steroid injections more than once a year if this is considered to be medically necessary.

In some situations, you may need to have ultrasound-guided steroid injections.

Specialist musculoskeletal radiologists give these injections. They help to ensure that the needle is placed more accurately at the area causing your pain.

H O L LY P R I VAT E H O S P I TA L Mandeep Lamba, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, has regular clinics at The Holly Private Hospital. To book an appointment, please call 020 3504 8481

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FOOD & DRINK

REAP THE BENEFITS S O I R E E R E STAU RA N T As we enter the new year, get ready to embrace the world’s healthiest way of eating – the Mediterranean diet. Try Soiree’s grilled salmon and enjoy the many health benefits of this dish, as well the finest Turkish cuisine. soireerestaurant.co.uk

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

The latest food news and most exciting openings this month

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

By IL VINO

Fantini Farnese, `Edizione 20` Cinque Autoctoni, Puglia/Abruzzo  £34 A bright, deep ruby colour with perfumes of intense fruit character, blackberry and cherry enriched with aromatic herbs, cinnamon, cocoa, liquorice and an interesting mineral note. The palate reveals a balanced structure with a lifted, elegant freshness. Soft, supple tannins lead to a long finish.

San Marzano 'Anniversario 62', Primitivo di Manduria Riserva 2017, Puglia  £28 Deep and complex flavours of prunes, black cherry jam, spice and tobacco weave through the full bodied palate with its velvety texture and long, complex finish of cocoa, coffee and vanilla bean. Primitivo di Manduria Riserva is a single varietal Primitivo, from a small vineyard in Manduria DOC.

Masseria Tagaro Cinquenoci Primitivo 2017, Puglia  £19 This is a deep red with violet reflections. Intense and persistent aromas of red fruit on the nose.

There are very strong notes of plums, blackcurrant, cocoa and sweet spices.

This is an incredibly well-balanced wine.

Il Vino is the premier independent wine merchant in West Essex, offering a selection of outstanding wines, champagnes, and cognacs and cigars from around the world. Il Vino will also soon be offering customers private tasting events at their shop in Buckhurst Hill.

ilvino.co.uk

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Roaring success THE LION BRASSERIE

The Lion Brasserie in East Bergholt is a luxury brasserie and bar located in the heart of Constable Country. The setting is beautiful, but above all they are proud of their food and service. Fish is sourced locally from Mersea Island, their meat is sourced from Hadleigh, and their fresh fruit, vegetables and fruit juices are sourced from Manningtree. Don't miss out on their enviable wine list, which is from their partner supplier in Thorrington Street. thelioneastbergholt.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

VEGAN INDIAN Kick off Veganuary in your own home

FOOD WITH A VIEW THE CINNAMON COLLECTION VEGAN MEAL KIT

Flying high THE LARKSHALL

Chef Vivek Singh of The Cinnamon Collection has designed a delicious plant-based tasting menu, packed full of flavour and spice. Delivered nationwide, it's a generous vegan feast. thecinnamoncollection.com

With a welcoming vibrant atmosphere, the Larkshall is situated in the heart of the community in Chingford near Epping Forest. It features local cask and ingredients highlighted on the seasonal menus to serve family and friends alike throughout the year.

What's more, they have just finished a complete refurbishment, meaning The Larkshall is even more of a perfect home away from home now. larkshallpub.co.uk

ROYAL PAVILION RESTAURANT

With a view like no other, the newly refurbished Royal Pavilion Restaurant and Bar at the end of Southend Pier offers diners 360-degree vistas of the Thames Estuary. The restaurant features local, seasonal produce, including beers from the Leigh on Sea Brewery and gin from Southend’s own Pigs Bay Distillery. Watch the boats sail by whilst enjoying some fabulous food and craft drinks. southendpier.co.uk/pavilion

DISHOOM VEGAN S A U S AG E N A A N R O L L Dishoom’s Vegan Sausage Naan Roll features cleverly fermented vegetables mixed with sausage spices. Included in the kit are three naan dough balls, tomato-chili jam and vegan cream cheese, plus Darjeeling tea, chai spices and ginger to brew masala chai. dishoom.com

F R E S H

S TA R T

8 ROCKS DELI & WINE

Stuff of Dreams T H E D R E A M FAC TO RY

The Dream Factory held an amazing ladies charity lunch afternoon recently, at Lokum Restaurant in Woodford. It was a ladies pre Christmas charity lunch afternoon with 81 guests, with a raffle and auction prizes donated by supporters. Two former world boxing champions and a Paralympian and Olympic gold medallist, all patrons of The Dream Factory, attended: Michael Watson MBE, Colin McMillan BEM, Anne Wafula Strike MBE, and Christine Ohuruhu MBE. They managed to raise a fabulous £7,200. yourdreamfactory.org

JHAKAAS R A J P U TA N A V E G A N The new premium delivery is the brainchild of Dayashankar Sharma, chef behind critically acclaimed fine-dining Indian restaurant Heritage Dulwich. The Rajputana Vegan showcases dishes such as Tofu Saag, Lasooni Tadka dal and Kalkatta Bigan Bhaja. jhakaas.co.uk

There’s nothing like a good hot breakfast to keep you warm on a frosty day. Full English, vegetarian and vegan options are all on offer at 8 Rocks. Located in Loughton High Road, 8 Rocks is a local spot where you can find great coffee, delicious food, and a vast selection of drinks.

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Dinner DATE

The George in Colchester has centuries of history behind it – but it’s current dining options are worthy of a new chapter

By MARK KEBBLE

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

THERE ARE A HOST DINING OPTIONS

F

or those who are never keen on making resolutions you won’t keep, perhaps the beginning of 2022 is all about starting afresh, seeking out a new experience maybe. If that’s the case, particularly if that something new is food-related, then you will like how the executive chef of The George in Colchester, Liam Keating, approaches a menu. “We want to offer dishes that a guest wouldn’t make at home,” he says. “We want them to try new flavours.”

The dining options at the hotel is just one reason why Essex residents have flocked to the venue, whether that’s locals or those from much further afield across the county.

Colchester as a town has lots going for it, particularly its Roman links, and The George is yet another addition to the already ample historic area. With over 500 years of history under its belt, the hotel registered a new

chapter in the summer of 2021 when it opened following an extensive refurbishment – with the food offering key to the new look and feel.

Having Keating overseeing the operation certainly helps. “Warm and hearty,” is how he sums up the current a la carte menu. “It’s simple food, but using the highest quality produce.” Like a lot of chefs in the county, what’s around him is particularly important when it comes to rustling up delectable delights in the kitchen. “When we create a menu, we look at the current season and we work closely with our local suppliers to get an idea of what products will work,” he explains.

“We always start local. We use Coleman’s butchers for our meats and Direct Seafoods for our fish [both are based in Colchester].”

As well as the food offerings, you can also sample a different atmosphere under the same roof. There’s the two-tiered restaurant, which has an elegant air to it, and also the Secret Courtyard. “During

“We want guests to be able to try new flavours when they visit”

the height of summer that was always full,” smiles Keating about the Secret Courtyard.

It helped, too, that he created a tapas menu especially for this space. “Despite being in a town centre, you would think you were actually miles away,” he adds.

Given its history, it’s also not a surprise that The George taps into one of the country’s finest traditions. Quintessential English afternoon tea is served in the new Tea Room, and even has its own name: T at The George.

It’s an eclectic Victorian themed experience, giving you the chance to indulge with friends over freshly brewed tea, delicious sandwiches, fresh scones and sweet treats. “Since we have opened that, it has proven very popular,” Keating says. “We have been fully booked every weekend and most weekdays.”

It all amounts to a fabulous dining experience, and with the choice of rooms too, it’s a great option to get away from it all for a couple of days. Which just leaves one question for Keating: what would be his “something new” choice from the current menu? “For starters, the fried feta has lovely flavours and different textures. The ox cheeks for the mains is perfect for a cold, winter’s night. And the chocolate orange fondant to end is melt in your mouth.” We can’t think of a better way to start 2022.

T H E G E O R G E H OT E L 116 High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TD 01206 578494 suryahotels.co.uk/george-food-and-drink

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EASY Indian

30 minute suppers from the Mowgli Home Kitchen Wo r d s N I S H A K AT O N A Photography YUKI SUGIARA

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Chicken, Coconut and Pineapple Curry Serves 4

The combination of both coconut milk and creamed coconut in this curry adds a real gloss and weight to the sauce, giving it a gorgeous, velvety texture. If you can't get creamed coconut just double-up on the tinned. During the last moments of these exotic sunshine curries, I often throw a handful of roasted nuts to boost the salt and the beach-holiday feel. If you’re not a fan of nuts or don’t have any to hand, you can leave these out without any detriment to the dish.

INGREDIENTS • 2 thumb-sized pieces fresh root ginger, peeled • 5 tbsp vegetable oil • 2 onions, finely chopped • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (approx. 600g/1lb 5oz), chopped into 2cm/3⁄4in cubes • 2 tbsp garam masala • 1 heaped tsp ground coriander • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1⁄4 tsp chilli powder • 100g/31⁄2oz creamed coconut • 400ml/14fl oz canned coconut milk • 2 green chillies, finely sliced • 11⁄2 tsp salt • 1 tsp brown sugar • 10 chunks canned pineapple, cut into 1–2cm/1⁄2–3⁄4in pieces • 100g/31⁄2oz roasted salted cashew nuts • small handful fresh coriander/ cilantro, finely chopped, to garnish • 1 red chilli, finely sliced, to garnish • cooked rice, or flatbreads, to serve

and cashews to the pan and stir to combine, adding a little of the juice from the canned pineapple if the mixture is too dry. Leave to cook, stirring occasionally, for 5–10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Scatter with chopped coriander/cilantro and sliced red chilli, then serve hot with rice or wraps alongside.

MillionDollar Dahl Serves 4

METHOD 1 Finely mince one of the pieces of ginger and slice the other into fine matchsticks. Set aside.

2 Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Add the onions, garlic and minced ginger and fry, stirring continuously, for 8 minutes, until golden brown. Add the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the onions, then add the garam masala, ground coriander, ground turmeric and chilli powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, to seal the chicken and coat it in the spices.

3 Add the creamed coconut, coconut milk, ginger matchsticks, sliced chillies, salt, sugar, pineapple

In Eastern Europe it is tradition at New Year to have these whole lentil dishes.

I add a little more spice than my motherin-law’s original recipe calls for, but the extra oomph really works. The green discs of lentil represent little coins and a wish for wealth in the year ahead. This is a wonderful centrepiece to a meal, regardless of your guests needs, as it is both gluten-free and vegan, as well as filling and delicious.

INGREDIENTS • 4 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 tsp cumin seeds • 1 onion, roughly chopped • 1 cube frozen crushed garlic

or 3 garlic cloves, crushed • 2 cubes frozen crushed ginger or 2 thumb-sized pieces fresh ginger, peeled and grated • 1 bay leaf • 1 fat green chilli, sliced • 800g /1lb 12oz canned green lentils, drained • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1 tbsp garam masala • 1 tsp ground cumin • 400g/14oz canned chopped tomatoes • 11⁄2 tsp salt • small handful fresh coriander/ cilantro, roughly chopped

METHOD 1 Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat, then add the cumin seeds and fry for a few seconds, until they are fragrant and have turned a deep golden brown. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, bay leaf and sliced chilli, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden.

2 Add the lentils, ground turmeric, garam masala, ground cumin and chopped tomatoes to the pan and stir to combine.

Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a lively simmer and cook for 20 minutes, adding a splash of water if the mixture gets too dry, until the lentils are tender. Add the salt to the pan to taste, then stir through the chopped fresh coriander/ cilantro.

Serve hot.

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Our exhibition season comes to a close with ‘Wilde Essex’ by Essex based mixed media artist Clare Wilde.

The exhibition opens on the 8th October runs until 8th November 2021.

Open Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm and Sunday, Monday and Tuesday by appointment only.

All of Clare’s work will be available to purchase from the gallery or online at www.wonky-wheel.co.uk

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ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

ENJOYSTALBANS.COM

23/09/2021 13:50

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

INGREDIENTS

Rice Krispie Bhel Puri Serves 4

Bhel Puri is a common street-food snack in India that is made with fried chickpea/ garbanzo beans threads, puffed rice and roasted peanuts, and dressed with all that is hot and sharp. When my parents first came to the UK, they missed this midmorning snack dreadfully, so invented this version using a well-known breakfast cereal. It’s as ludicrous a secret pleasure as any Indian family could have.

• 100g/31⁄2oz/4 cups crisped rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies) • 3 tbsp mustard oil • 1 handful roasted peanuts • 2 mild green chillies, finely chopped • 1 red onion, finely chopped • 1 small bunch coriander/cilantro, leaves and stalks finely chopped • 1 tsp chaat masala • squeeze of lemon juice

METHOD 1 Place a small frying pan/skillet over a low heat and add the crisped rice cereal. Warm the cereal for 3 minutes, tossing in the pan to prevent it from catching, then transfer to a large bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.

Serve immediately, while the cereal is still warm and crisp.

Recipes taken from 30 Minute Mowgli by Nisha Katona, published by Nourish Books

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E D U C AT I O N

TIME TO EXPLORE OA K-T R E E S C H O O L S

The Oak-Tree group have four schools in the West Essex area, and all provide the ideal start in life for their pupils. As well as plenty of opportunities in the classroom, they also give their pupils space to grow and explore outside too. Read more about their fabulous work on page 87. oaktreeschools.co.uk

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Question

TIME What every parent should consider as a new year dawns B y S U E L A I D L AW

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EDUCATION • FEATURE

A

t the turn of the year, we are usually thinking about our new year resolutions and fresh starts. Perhaps the dawn of 2022 will be a little different.

Certainly, in education, there is a feeling that things are “getting back to normal”, whatever normal now means. GCSE and A-level exams will resume in the summer months albeit with some mitigations on syllabi; the year should hold the excitement of field trips, residential visits and full resumption of Parents’ Evenings, school fairs and concerts, after their tentative resurrection during the latter part of 2021.

So what are the hopes, dreams and resolutions that you have for your children, family life and education this year? Of course, all parents want their children to be happy and fulfilled, but here are some thoughts to ponder…

SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS ARE BACK

IS IT TIME TO GIVE YOUR GROWING CHILD THE NEXT STEP TO INDEPENDENCE? As parents, it is often difficult to let go, whatever the age of your child. Remember that small steps forward are the way to becoming a responsible confident adult and, at a young age, develop a widening circle of relationships.

It is always good to remember that it is much harder to pull back your child’s independence, so take little steps and build gradually.

IS IT TIME TO GIVE YOUR CHILD MORE RESPONSIBILITY? Parenting today tends to absolve our growing children of a great deal of responsibility. In many ways, this is wonderful, allowing them a full and free childhood. However, gradually teaching and developing small degrees of responsibility help a child to feel respected and grow in confidence. Don’t be afraid of giving them a regular household task to perform or be responsible for feeding the goldfish!

Obviously, responsibilities need to be matched to the age, ability and maturity of each child, but this can develop gradually and sensitively.

IS IT TIME TO SAY NO?

A DEGREE OF NORMALITY IS RETURNING TO CLASSROOMS

Giving children choices is fine and, indeed, often appropriate, but give yourself permission to accept that you are the parent and the adult and, sometimes, your decision or choice is better; you have considered the options and weighed up the alternatives as a mature person who loves their child unconditionally. If you think that it is better for your child, then have the

“This year should hold the excitement of field trips and residential visits” confidence to go with your considered view as parents. It’s not easy, particularly through the teenage years, but I was glad to hear one of my daughters, aged 15 at the time, respond: “I don’t agree with you, but I respect your decision.”

Quite a landmark that’s etched on my brain.

IS IT TIME TO HAVE MORE FUN? Too often as parents, or just as adults, we are focussed on what is best, how we can improve things, worrying about our child’s education and all the other bits that come with having children – and forget, at times, about the fun we have with our children. As they get older, those times become ever more precious. Our daughters are all in their 20s now and the family times that we share are the best moments that anyone could wish for.

Enjoy the journey as well as the destination and here’s to a happy and fulfilling 2022.

L A I D L AW E D U CAT I O N Sue Laidlaw is the founder of Laidlaw Education LLP and Laidlaw Virtual Academy, and she would be delighted to assist you with the educational needs of your child.

020 8487 9517; laidlaweducation.co.uk

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EDUCATION • TALENT

BRINGING OUT

THE BEST

Absolutely talks to Mrs Hooley of Avon House Prep School about a super talented pupil and what their teachers do to help harness qualities in all Q We look at your pupil Vishva Tank’s achievements on this page. What do you make of what he has done to date?

A This term, Vishva has made great progress in all areas of his learning, which has been reflected in his recent assessment grades. He is applying himself well in all lessons and strives to improve at every given opportunity. Vishva regularly brings in pieces of work to share with me that he has done at home. This is done without prompting and really demonstrates his love for learning.

Q When you come across a pupil like Vishva, how do you aim to harness their talents?

A Personally, it is vital that I keep him stretched, challenged and engaged. I am always looking for ways to develop individual talents of the pupils in my care.

For example, Vishva enjoys science – especially the practical aspects of science lessons. Therefore, I make sure that in my planning I put in as many investigation tasks as I can to keep him inspired and engaged. In my delivery, I encourage independence by allowing Vishva creative freedom to carry out investigative

work in whichever way he feels fits. If it doesn’t work, then we learn from it.

Q Do you have any special co-curricular classes that are a little different?

A During the school year, we give children the opportunity to participate in inter-house competitions for science, maths, reading, poetry, music, football, rugby and cross country.

Q Do your teachers go above and

beyond to offer their assistance in developing your pupils?

A As a school that is accredited their Gold Rights Respecting School Award, we take every opportunity to develop pupil talents.

Articles 28 and 29 of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child underpin everything we do as staff. We recognise that pupils need to be stretched to reach their full potential and that their talents should be harnessed.

In every classroom, we display and agree on a Class Charter at the start of the new academic year. Looking over at the wall in my classroom now, I have both articles displayed. Both the children and I agreed that we would work together to help them to be the best that they could possibly be.

MEET THE PUPIL Vishva Tank Year 8

Achievements at a glance Began badminton coaching age six and now he is in the Under 10s Essex County squad. Recently he won a silver medal in the Under 12s Essex championship in boy's doubles, his first badminton tournament.

Involved with Arlans Siquera Brazilian Jujitsu club since age four, Vishva has won Gold and Silver medals in two previous highly competitive annual English Open tournaments.

Vishva joined the Redbridge Lions Gymnastics club at age five and earned 10 grade qualifications and now, at age nine, is proudly working towards his grade 1 British Gymnastics Proficiency Level.

Also a keen musician, Vishva loves to sing in the school choir and is currently doing his grade 1 singing exam and is working towards his grade 2 on the drum kit.

In his spare time, Vishva is learning Sanskrit, he loves to do yoga, baking and cooking healthy recipes to support his passion for sport and fitness.

AVO N H O U S E P R E PA R ATO RY S C H O O L 490 High Road, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG8 0PN avonhouseschool.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Calling all Academy Schools New year, New Accountant?

In accordance with the Academy Trust Handbook 2021, Trusts need to retender their external audit contract at least every 5 years. Could now be a good time to reflect on your Audit Services?

Contact Haslers to request a tender for your External Audit or Internal Scrutiny Audit.

Advice@haslers.com 020 8418 3333 bravely fortiter

faithfully fideliter

happily feliciter

St. Aubyn’s School 7+ and 11+ Admission 2022

Assessments will take place in March For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar

co-educational independent ages 3-13 central line Woodford

registrar@staubyns.com 020 8504 1577 Bunces Lane Woodford Green Essex IG8 9DU www.staubyns.com Registered Charity No: 270143

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EDUCATION • INTERVIEW

Talking

HEAD

Positive change Patricia Dear, headteacher of Daiglen School, on being owned by a charitable trust, transforming the building and the joy of having pupils back in class Is it a privilege to be involved with the start of a child’s educational journey?

Massively so. To see our children grow and learn from their starting points at three-yearsold in nursery, to the confident accomplished young people that leave us at 11, and to share those years with them and their families is a real privilege.

Daiglen School was founded over 100 years ago. What can you tell me about the origins of the school?

Miss Gellatly established The Daiglen Preparatory School in 1916. In 1977 the school was established as an Educational Trust School, under the authority of a Board of Governors and with Mrs Phillips as headmistress. The original premises were on the High Road, Buckhurst Hill.

In 1950 the school was moved to the present building on Palmerston Road.

What areas did you want to develop when you took over as head in 2016?

Daiglen was at an exciting time in the school’s development when I joined as the governors had committed to a major refurbishment of the whole school. I felt that it would be a challenge that I would really enjoy and it has been a privilege to have been involved in that. The school has really been

We value the unique talents of every one of our pupils and aim to instil in them a love of learning transformed over the past five years.

Today, what does the school offer and what’s your ethos?

We value the unique talents of every one of our pupils and aim to instil in them a love of learning, which prepares them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life. We believe that nurturing the social and emotional development of our pupils will provide the foundation for their future happiness and success both personally and academically.

We aim to enhance and enrich our

What would we find in a typical classroom?

Lots of happy faces, laughter and busy children, all engaged in their learning.

EXPECT TO SEE MANY HAPPY FACES

pupils’ personal, social, creative academic and physical development in order that they become confident, independent and responsible citizens who show kindness and consideration to others and contribute positively to society. In order to achieve this we offer the children as many experiences across a wide range of curriculum areas as we possibly can.

What does being owned by a charitable trust enable you to do?

As a charitable trust, and as such a not for profit organisation, the trustees are committed to investing any surplus income into recruiting highly qualified teachers and to making continual improvements to the fabric of the school. We are also able to offer bursary places to families who may not otherwise be able to access an independent education.

How nice was it to have pupils back in school at the start of term?

It has been so lovely having the school back to being fully operational again. We missed the children so much during the lockdown periods of remote learning. There really is no replacement for hands on interaction with children.

What have been the highlights in this school year to date?

Competitive sports fixtures resuming and being able to welcome our parents back in to school for the small things like coffee mornings to the bigger occasions like our Nativity performance in December, the first live one since 2019!

DA I G L E N S C H O O L

PATRICIA DEAR Headteacher Daiglen School

68 Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5LG 020 8504 7108 daiglen.essex.sch.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Saint Nicholas School

Open Day Saturday 12th March 2022 • Independent Co-Ed Day School in Old Harlow for pupils aged 21 2 to 16 • Academic excellence combined with great pastoral care • Small class sizes

SAINT NICHOLAS

Nurture. Strive. Achieve.

01279 429910 • www.saintnicholasschool.net St Nicholas 1School - Absolutely West Essex A4 Ad 12.03.22_Final.indd 1 Untitled-4

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X X X X / X X•XFOCUS XXX EDUCATION

Reading

RIGHTS

Author Sally Gardner has won multiple awards and sold over two million books – and she also couldn't read until she was 14

By LIBBY NORMAN

S

ally Gardner is a Carnegie and Costa-prize winning author with an army of admiring readers. Yet it took her 14 years to finally decipher those mixed and muddled letters on the page and start reading. The first book she read, Wuthering Heights, set her off on a course to a rich creative and writing career.

Today, she can still recall the moment words on a page made sense. She describes how she was in a Nissen hut with the other 'maladjusted' girls round her. It was chaos, several girls were visibly distressed and the rain was driving down on the roof, making

noise levels unbearable. "I just didn't want to be there," she says. "I remember looking down and seeing this book, The Complete Works of Emily Bronte. I picked it up and started Wuthering Heights. I started reading it, word by word, with my finger on the words, and suddenly there was total quiet. It was snowing and I was walking with this man trying to find a room for the night. I knew what was happening and I was in the world."

Being in the creative world never stopped from that point on. Gardner had been promised by her mother that if she managed five O levels she could go to art school. Despite all dire predictions from teachers, she did it and studied at Central

Saint Martin's. She graduated with a First, then became a theatre designer in Newcastle.

She had achieved success, but still – in the background – she was different. "If anyone had asked me then to describe what dyslexia was, what it felt like, I'd have said 'it's an old tin can that follows me round'," she says.

She recalls the moment she confessed her problem to a work colleague – he was baffled by paperwork she was sending him – and he told her she simply had to tell people. That was the moment she decided she had to take control – pick up that tin can and own it. Gardner does, it must be said, have an extraordinarily vivid way of describing dyslexia. She is widely A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

on record as comparing it to a Rubik's Cube, saying: "It takes time to work out how to deal with it, but once you do, it can be the most wonderful gift."

If Newcastle was her picking up the tin can moment, Gardner found her Rubik's Cube – her wonderful gift – the day that her contract for her first novel came back. She had written The Little Nut Tree from the perspective of an illustrator and when the contract arrived it described her as 'author'.

She says: "I just couldn't believe it."

Success built from this, with a critical moment when she was taken under the wing of the "wonderful" editor Judith Elliott. She says that when she told Elliott she had terrible dyslexia the editor shot back: "You're a writer, what does that matter?" It was Elliott who encouraged her writing talent, but the feeling she wasn't a proper writer didn't entirely go away.

When people discovered she was a writer

“It takes time to work out how to deal with dyslexia, but it can be a gift” with dyslexia they would even question how this could be. "I used to be asked: 'So how do you write?'. I'd tell them I wrote on a laptop. They would respond: 'So, you have a ghost writer then?' Only after Maggot Moon did all of it stop and everyone talked instead about my writing." They certainly did talk about the writing. This wasn't Gardner's first major gong, but for Maggot Moon she was awarded both the Carnegie Medal and Costa Prize – and for a book Gardner had started and then stuck in a drawer.

In her new role as Ambassador for the British Dyslexia Association, Gardner intends to be active on a whole range of issues to do with the rights of readers, and the way the 90 per cent treat the other ten per cent. Gardner would like us to stop talking about dyslexia as a disability and start to see what dyslexia can be – how people with dyslexia can be creative, highly visual and solve problems 'left brainers' struggle with.

"What we are great at doing is thinking out

of the box. People with dyslexia navigate the world differently because they are forced to. A brick wall is never a brick wall, it's just: how do I get through that brick wall?"

Her advice to parents of children who are reluctant readers or have dyslexia is to be patient and to get them into listening books. "I've done most of my reading through my ears. I think I still do," she says. Her other advice is not to raise hell over tidying messy bedrooms. Almost Tindim-like, Sally Gardner says she was a child who had a perpetual struggle seeing the chaos around her – however upset her mother got. "Still, if I get things in a real muddle I can't visually see it. I need someone calm to help me organise!" she adds.

Find out more about the work of the British Dyslexia Association at bdadyslexia.org.uk

SA L LY GA R D N E R To see more about Sally Gardner's books, visit sallygardner.co.uk

A MAP OF RUBBISH ISLAND FROM THE TINDIMS

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“A splendid school, catering for bright children and those who will seize opportunities.”

Good Schools Guide

High Road, Woodford Green, IG8 0RF | 020 8505 4821 | www.bancrofts.org

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7+ ENTRANCE EXAM & SCHOLARSHIP Applications now open

For further information and to request an application form please email registrar@ahsprep.co.uk

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EDUCATION • NEWS

PLAY AT BRAESIDE

Making the

GRADE

A round up of the latest from the four Oak-Tree schools in the West Essex area BRAESIDE

Braeside School in Buckhurst Hill welcomed its first boys this academic year, as part of a phased transition to co-education. Boys were welcomed into both Kindergarten and Reception year groups, and have already settled in extremely well.

Headmistress Chloe Moon describes the change as bringing a real ‘buzz’ to the school, with a lot of interest at their most recent open event.

OAKLANDS AND COOPERSALE HALL

Coopersale Hall School in Epping have greatly extended their array of extra-curricular activities this year, allowing pupils to enjoy a range of clubs and experiences during their lunch break and after school.

Both schools have over 40 different clubs for pupils to choose from,

CLASSROOM FUN AT COOPERSALE HALL

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including sports clubs, musical clubs, academic boosters and some more alternative activities such as Wellies and Woodlands, Strategy Board Games, Construction, Busy Bees, Street Dance, Pottery, Sign Language and Coding to name a few.

Extra-curricular activities provide pupils with a huge range of benefits, in addition to the enjoyment while taking part. Children have the opportunity to explore different interests and unlock passions they never knew they had. They also provide the opportunity for pupils to expand their social network and develop ‘real world’ skills, such as time management and analytical thinking.

NORMANHURST

Pupils at Normanhurst School in North Chingford have taken it upon themselves to run a mile before school every day. Their aim is to run 26 miles, the equivalent to a marathon, to raise money for the Samaritan’s Purse charity. The children were inspired when some of their own teachers took part in the most recent London Marathon, and so far have excelled with the challenge.

“Children have the chance to explore different interests and unlock newly discovered passions”

SOUND OF MUSIC AT OAKLANDS

ON THE RUN AT NORMANHURST

THE OAK-TREE GROUP

Pupils who attend the Oak-Tree Group of schools have the unique opportunity to take part in the Oak-Tree Challenge, a scheme that was set up by the schools directly. This unique initiative is designed to challenge all pupils, in both the Seniors and Juniors from Year 4 upwards, by providing incentive to participate in a huge variety of opportunities both inside or outside school. The aim is to encourage pupils to learn new skills, including practical skills that are not part of the curriculum. There are also tasks that are based around helping others by providing a service, while developing both team and leadership skills.

Each year, the requirements become more challenging, with the opportunity to earn Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. Many pupils across the schools opt to take part in this voluntary challenge, and should be very proud of their achievements. oaktreeschools.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

Fully prepared As St Margaret’s Prep celebrates an excellent inspection outcome, we take a closer look at the specialist teaching they offer

S

t Margaret’s Prep School, in Gosfield North Essex, is a happy and caring school where pupils enjoy every aspect of school life, independent school inspectors have found.

The quality of pupils’ academic achievements and the quality of their personal development was awarded the highest rating of ‘excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.

Inspectors found St Margaret’s pupils, from Nursery to Year 6, to be highly engaged, enthusiastic and committed learners who make excellent progress across the curriculum, noting their exemplary attitude to learning and above national average results. They also recognised the high pastoral care provided by staff, focusing on the wellbeing of each individual to ensure that they all flourish.

The school offers specialist teaching across the curriculum, combined with

Inspectors found pupils to be highly engaged, enthusiastic and committed learners a home-from-home family feel, to give your child the very best start. Their specially designed Nursery is at the heart of the school, providing space to learn through play, build friendships and explore the world on their doorstep.

Nursery (ages 2 to 4 years) and Reception (4-5 years) children also enjoy their own play and discovery outdoor area.

Small class sizes continue into all areas across the curriculum for Pre-Prep (ages 5 to 7 years) and Prep (7-11 years), giving

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PUPILS' WELLBEING IS KEY

your child many opportunities to grow intellectually, physically and socially.

Their team of dedicated and enthusiastic, highly qualified nursery practitioners, class teachers and teaching assistants help pupils to discover the joy in new things and find out what really drives them, across a broad range of subjects and activities. From languages, science and maths, to sport and all aspects of the arts, with a particular strength in music, they have something to suit every child.

They are a non-selective school where happy children make excellent progress. The truly preparatory ethos

of St Margaret’s opens up a life of choices for their next stage. At the end of their time with them, all pupils leave for the senior school of their choosing, with many being offered a scholarship, grammar school place or both.

To find out how the small class sizes and personalised approach to teaching can give your child the best start to their educational journey, contact the Admissions Team to book a private tour by calling 01787 273 050 or emailing admissions@stmargaretsprep.com

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An affordable Independent Education

NOW RANKED 22nd BEST PREP SCHOOL

by The Sunday Times

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INTERIORS

MERCURY RISING CA ST R A D S

Castrads’ in-house designers created an entirely new, extremely comprehensive range of radiators. The Mercury comes in 14 different sizes, with a customisable length to ensure you get the proper heat output. The Mercury was inspired by traditional column radiators found in Victorian homes across England. The versatility, simplicity, and slim profile of this radiator range make it perfect for just about anywhere in your home. castrads.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Interior News 92 • Fiona Duke Interiors 94 • Carpe Diem 101 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS N OT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

B U I LT TO LAST MORLEY STOVE COMPANY

A foundry was established in the village of Lacanche, deep in the Burgundian countryside in France, over 200 years ago, and range cookers have been manufactured there by hand ever since. The Lacanche is not sold into the commercial market, only the domestic market. Visit Morley Stove Company in Ware, where they have one on show, to see for yourself. morley-stoves.co.uk

TO P TA B LE ILINKA

A table dressed with beautifully made tablecloths, placemats and napkins that are coordinated with the tableware is an absolute joy. Ilinka works with a variety of colours on 100% linen or linen combined with cotton for easier wash and maintenance. ilinkacollection.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Candles DIPTYQUE Patchouli candle, £49 diptyqueparis.com

CO O K SHOP

SHAKEN AND STIRRED BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

The stylish Georg Jensen Sky collection giftset comprises of a cocktail shaker, stirring spoon and measuring jigger all crafted in polished stainless steel, and can be purchased alongside a stylish coaster set. This fantastic gift set is designed by Aurelien Barbry and showcases his love of ergonomic design. bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

MEYER

As winners of the coveted Red Dot design award, what sets the Meyer Accent Series apart is the design details. A minimalist’s dream, the series is designed by female designers, engineers and researchers to cook the widest variety of foods with the fewest possible pieces into one range. meyer.com

LES SENTEURS Foret Foray candle, £48 lessenteurs.com

MILLER HARRIS Tea candle, £50 millerharris.com

JOHN LEWIS Pixel scented candle, £22 johnlewis.com

CLOUD BURST AXOLIGHT

NEILL STRAIN Fragranced candle, £65 neillstrain.com

Between design and art, the Italian-designed Cloudy oversized pendant lamp dominates the space with its strong installation power and a fluctuating stage presence of great impact. £2,352. lampcommerce.com

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ALT ERN ATI V E

AN G L E S The founder of Fiona Duke Interiors in Essex writes about a French adventure and the lure of creating something different back home

By FIONA DUKE

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

I

was a creative child, always making things or redecorating my bedroom.

My parents got used to me moving my room around and changing the colours on a regular basis.

It’s strange because even though I was very creative growing up, I also really loved the idea of living and working in France and I think that is why I originally went down this path. During this time I still continued to draw and regularly ‘make things’, so my passion and interest for design never went away. I was lucky enough to live in France for a while and it was a great place to help me explore my creative side whilst

also learning the language. Having initially worked for a French bank, I then moved into recruitment and onto marketing, but the desire to be more creative never went away, which is why I eventually decided to go back to University and retrain in this area.

I had already started to help friends and family with small projects and completed a couple of my own renovations, but the first few projects were quite small initially and it was very different following an actual brief rather than the fictional ones set on the course. All of a sudden it was real people, real budgets! I had been working in marketing and the company was making

a lot of redundancies, so I thought it was a sign that now was a good time to launch my own business. I went back to study part time initially whilst still working and then launched my own studio in 2014.

My previous jobs involved a lot of interaction with people and understanding their needs, so these were really transferrable skills for interior design. Understanding your client’s brief, knowing exactly what their expectations and objectives are, is really key.

This was a totally new field for me and there is a lot to learn in interior design.

Every single new project is different and with each one I learn something new

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Hydropool Hot Tubs | Swim Spas | Outdoor Kitchens | Buildings

“Outdoor living…

All year round.”

Al fresco cooking is becoming more and more popular every year, providing you with new, innovative and fun ways to cook outdoors with your family or to cater for some guests.

Outdoor kitchens can come with all the functionality of an indoor kitchen as we make every single kitchen bespoke

to meet your needs. Hot tubs and swim spas are an amazing way to improve your everyday lifestyle and start creating new habits. What better way to start your day than with a soak in your own hot tub!Or come home after work for a leisurely swim to keep active and healthy, all year round.

SHOWROOM OPENING HOURS:

Mon – Sat: 9am – 5pm | Sun: 10am – 4pm

londonessexoutdoorliving.co.uk

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E T

info@londonessexoutdoorliving.co.uk 020 3150 1503

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INTERIORS • PROFILE

“I love it when a client is willing to work out of their comfort zone in terms of design choices”

as design is forever evolving. We have access to so much now and there are so many choices out there and new ideas being introduced all the time that my role and my knowledge is always evolving.

I like the client to lead with their initial brief as this is key to understanding exactly what they want and what they want to achieve from their project. Listening is key at this early stage as you to try to fully appreciate what they are thinking and what they like or don’t like. This is important so you can align your ideas with theirs. Even if people struggle to know what they like, they often have a good understanding of what they don’t like so that’s a start. I want to create inspiring elegant spaces, but they have to work with that client’s lifestyle and it has to be what they like as this will ultimately make them happier. Nevertheless, I do like to softly challenge clients at times so that they are being introduced to or at least given options that they may not have considered. I love it when a client is willing to work slightly out of their comfort zone in terms of design choices and these are usually the design elements they like the best at the end of the project. The best projects are when clients are really passionate about their homes and are open to looking at wonderful design ideas and embrace them.

Is there a typical Fiona Duke Interiors look? I am not totally sure. Maybe you can tell me! In terms of style it’s usually a mix of modern and vintage, and even

when we have taken a long time pulling together all the elements for a whole design concept, I still like the interiors to look relaxed and effortless. Elegant spaces but that are also liveable real spaces.

I’ve been in Chelmsford for over 20 years now. I think it’s a great City as it’s small enough to have a great community feel, but big enough to have lots going on too.

I love the fact that it is so close to London too as I am there every week visiting suppliers, exhibitions and new launches.

I’ve got several great new projects lined up for 2022 and I’ve also literally just started work on my own house, which is a full renovation, so this will be keeping me busy too! fionadukeinteriors.com FIONA DUKE

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22 The Fairways, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, EN8 0NL T: 01992 845 655 E: showroom@houseofinteriors.com www.houseofinteriors.com @houseofinteriorsltd

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INTERIORS • INTERVIEW

“We built a Manhut underground so we could put in golf simulators”

Man’s WORLD

Andy Ryan is the founder of a unique business designing garden buildings.

Here he talks about projects dealing with wind, water and a golf swing…

Q Your business Manhuts has

been going for over seven years.

What did you originally offer?

A Basically the same bespoke design garden buildings that we do now, but today we offer full garden makeovers and flat packed offices delivered to your door.

Q When and why did you start

offering bespoke garden buildings?

A Eight years ago I built my own manhut in

my garden, and the ensuing compliments from all my friends and family gave me a nudge to start my own business.

Q How quickly did the business take off?

A I started building manhuts all on my

own, then had a labourer working for me two years later. Then the pandemic started, and I thought that was the end of the business, but the phone just kept ringing and ringing. I currently have five teams out there working full time now.

Q How long does construction take?

A Roughly three weeks is the turnaround

on our basic builds. The big projects with full garden makeovers can be anything from six to eight weeks depending on design.

Q How bespoke can you go?

A Anything you desire we will have a go.

We have built around trees that sway in the wind and are fully water tight, built a 10m x 4m Manhut on 1.20m high pillars due to flooding issues on the Thames.

We also build Manhuts underground 1m deep so we can put in golf simulators to get a 3m high ceiling for the golf swing.

Q Home offices are key today, so do

you get many requests for these?

A Yes. I have designed flat pack offices

that we can deliver to your door in set sizes. You can then install yourself or our team can complete a fully working office for you to move into within three days.

Q What are your plans for 2022?

A I’m designing “Pub Sheds”. It’s a shed

that opens out to provide a bar, seating area, dart board, and slide out BBQ. I’m building a prototype at the moment to launch before the summer. I am also designing a fully automated 10 pin bowling alley to hopefully be installed in someone’s garden if required.

07836 609972 • manhuts.co.uk

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Co mfo r t a b l e, Hi g h - Qu a l i t y Mat t re s s e s an d Be d s

Celebrating

50 years of family business

Jan u a ry New Year sa le st a rt s 1s t Jan Stop by our showroom in Chingford, North London today to explore all our mattresses.

One of our knowledgeable staff members can help you find the right mattress and will tell you more about our delivery options.

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36-38 Hatch Lane, Chingford London E4 6LQ 020 8524 1821 020 8529 5345 bedsbedsbeds.net

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

D R E A M S P A C E How to design your bedroom for sleep comfort as well as aesthetics

By EVE HERBERT

S “The look is luxurious but minimalist, and the neutral tones are designed to be mixed and matched”

wedish bedrooms are worldleading for their fusion of nature and innovation, and for their muted, minimalist aesthetic and clean lines.

One brand that embodies this is Carpe Diem Beds, a household name in Sweden, associated with the ultimate in sleep comfort and design credentials. Treating sleep as a luxury and yet also a necessity is one of their core brand values – and therefore crafting a serious space for it is paramount.

Carpe Diem Beds' ethos centres on creating a cohesive bedroom, incorporating a range of considered pieces that complement the bed as centrepiece, with a dedication to optimising the bedroom environment as an oasis of calm (and thereby revolutionising your sleep). While choosing the perfect mattress for you is at the heart of the in-store experience, there’s a strong focus on bedroom design and streamlining, so that the bed you choose can be housed in an environment that’s conducive to optimum sleep health.

For the UK market, Carpe Diem Beds introduced 36 different Designers Guild fabrics for beds and headboards that can be colour matched with carpets, cushions and curtains. Rui Franca of the Wigmore Street showroom explains: “In selecting the fabrics we look at colours that are neutral and subtle.

Bright colours are energising and we need to be relaxed in a bedroom, so no oranges or shiny finishes. It’s all about neutral tones.

Scandinavian design usually keeps tones neutral to create a sense of calm in the mind.”

Fabrics are beiges and greys with some darker tones and maybe some light pinks at the colourful end of the neutral palette. “In store we have access to side tables, carpets and throw cushions. We have a slick metal side

table and lamps too, with finishes in chrome and marble, all in calming soothing tones.”

The look is luxurious but minimalist and the neutral tones are designed to be mixed and matched, alongside lifestyle products such as kimonos, slippers, sleep masks and scented candles.

All this high-tech innovation is fundamentally grounded in a respect for nature and craftsmanship. Using the best and most sustainable raw materials including slow-growth Nordic pine, Talalay latex and organic cotton, expert bed-makers craft each bed by hand in a Swedish manufacturing facility. Each bed is built from start to finish by the same person, who signs the frame at the end as an ultimate marker of quality. Carpe Diem Beds’ innovative approach is visible on their website, where an interactive bed configurator introduces the available options, revealing how each bed can be matched with personal preferences. Each bed is customisable in size, finish and fabric, with a variety of headboard options.

CA R P E D I E M B E D S 15 Wigmore Street, W1 • 020 3982 3252 carpediembeds.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

1 L I G H T W O R K

STYLISH AND ESSENTIAL GADGETS FOR YOUR KITCHEN 1

DRIP DRIP SMEG

The Smeg drip coffee machine allows you to prepare a deliciously aromatic, richly-flavoured coffee with the option of selecting the aroma intensity you prefer. £179.95 smeguk.com

2

HOOKED UP KITCHENAID

3

KitchenAid's iconic Artisan Mixer is an essential bit of kit for any serious kitchen. Use it for whisking egg whites, kneading dough, beating batter and more. kitchenaid.co.uk

3

ON THE FIZZ S O DA S T R E A M

2

Take the pressure off your recycling bin and make your own fizzy water with Sodastream's compact and efficient Spirit machine. It comes in a wide range of colours too. £99 sodastream.co.uk

4

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H OT S H OT SMEG

5

Smeg's stylish espresso machine, with its 1950s-inspired curves, is as functional as it is chic.

With a bit of practice you'll be preparing high class brews in your own kitchen. £319.95 smeguk.com

5

COOL KET TLE H AY

The Sowden kettle shares the same distinctive family of colour combinations as the rest of George Sowden’s collection, making a statement in any kitchen. £95 hay.dk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Bespoke luxury spaces tailored just for you From walk in wardrobes to home offices in a range of styles

Nordikka Interiors Blinding Bifolds Showroom, The Dutch Nursery, The Great North Rd, Brookmans Park, Hatfields, Hertfordshire AL9 6ND E: info@nordikka.co M: 07738469691

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New showroom opening soon in Brookmans Park

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INTERIORS • TREND EDITOR’S PICK

TAILOR MADE SOFAS Victoria 3 seater sofa, from £1,695 tailormadesofas.co.uk

LIGNE ROSET Ploum sofa, from £3,895 heals.com

CULT FURNITURE Effie Loveseat sofa, £495 cultfurniture.com

SNUG SOFA The Big Chill 3 seater sofa in navy velvet, £1,339 snugsofa.com

OKA Tarma two seater sofa, £2,195 oka.com

LIGNE ROSET Taru sofa, £4,182 chaplins.co.uk

CASTING COUCH

ROSE & GREY

Sofas for extra comfort this season

Penny sofa, £2,095 roseandgrey.co.uk

By P E N D L E H A R T E

LOAF Pudding sofa in thyme green vintage linen, £1,445 loaf.com

SOFA.COM Larsen corner sofa in cobalt, £2,940 sofa.com

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

“We get to know our clients and ensure their security needs are met”

Safe & SECURE

STUART SMITH

Exceptional staff leading the way in the close-knit ‘Golden Triangle’ neighbourhood of Essex

T A TRIANGLE SECURITY PANIC BUTTON

he success of a company depends on the quality of personnel employed.

Triangle Security provide residential and commercial, 24-hour security surveillance, seven days a week, 365 days a year and they proudly state that they consider their personnel to be their most valuable asset.

A popular protection choice for families and businesses in Essex, Triangle Security are committed to ensuring that their employees and consultants undertake regular training to provide them with the ability and experience to fulfil their roles effectively whilst furthering their career opportunities. On that note let us introduce Triangle’s Business Development Director, ex-British Army 7th Royal Horse Artillery Soldier, Stuart Smith to Absolutely readers.

Smith spent 18 years in the British Army as part of the 7th Royal Horse Artillery (RHA).

After serving in Northern Ireland, he spent two years peacekeeping for the UN in Cyprus, then post injury he was posted to a Ceremonial Regiment within the Kings Troop where he had to master riding a horse. It wasn’t long within this role that he was promoted to NCO to the charger lines (looking after all the officer’s horses and groom).

It was with a heavy heart that Smith left the army in 2000 to pursue other career paths, first as corporate security at Credit Suisse, before Triangle Security owner approached him over ten years ago and he hasn’t looked back.

Smith has been part of the Triangle Security team since its foundation over ten years ago and has seen the company grow from a small patrol team to a well-known and respected company offering vast security services. “Working at Triangle is a rewarding and challenging job for anyone coming out of the army,” Smith says. “You need a professional attitude and take pride in what you do, as an ex-soldier you naturally bring that to all positions. I enjoy meeting new people and my role in business development enables me to get to know our clients and ensure that their security needs are met.”

TRIANGLE SECURITY 020 3948 7071 info@triangle-security.co.uk triangle-security.co.uk

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PROPERTY

HIGH ROAD, EPPING CM16

£1,050,000

panning in excess of 1,700 sq ft, Bell Cottage is full of character and charm and offers a versatile layout along with a spacious entrance hall, modern open-plan kitchen/dining area, spacious playroom, and a separate formal reception room on the ground floor. To the first floor, there are four bedrooms with the master having an en-suite and a modern family bathroom.

S

BUTLER & STAG THEYDON BOIS

01992 667 666 butlerandstag.uk

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North End, Buckhurst Hill

Price Range £575,000 to £625,000 A charming three bedroom semi-detached cottage which is situated in a delightful spot, surrounded by stunning countryside, but just a short walk from Queens Road with the Central Line Station close by. Features include a wonderfully spacious lounge / dining room, conservatory, a fitted kitchen, guest cloakroom and a south facing courtyard style rear garden.

Princes Road, Buckhurst Hill

Price Range £430,000 to £450,000

Located in the heart of Buckhurst Hill is this charming first floor conversion apartment with own garden. Features include a stunning lounge/dining room with period features, a modern fitted kitchen, two bedrooms and own garden to the rear with an allocated parking space. Queens Road’s boutique shops and the Central Line station a stroll away.

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PROPERTY • INSIGHT

LONG AND SHORT OF IT We have seen a year like no other, globally and on a local scale, so here’s what needs to happen as we enter 2022 B y H AY L E Y H U N T

W

hat an extraordinary year it’s been: it looks like 2021 will see a record number of transactions, despite the pandemic. The combination of Covid and Brexit, the Suez blockage and gas pipeline crises have all played their part in creating shortages and pushing up prices. And with inflation racing towards 5%, there was talk of the Bank of England increasing its base rate from the current remarkable low of 0.1%. The idea would be to take the edge off the confidence that people have to spend. It is this confidence, as well as people reconsidering their lifestyle needs, that have pushed up the average property price by nearly 7% this year (source: Zoopla), with one in every 16 residential properties changing hands. Then again, maybe an interest rate rise can be avoided as the new Omicron Covid variant slows down the rate of economic recovery.

But as estate agents we have a problem.

We have sold pretty much everything

that was available, many of them over the asking price too. Whilst this is a nice problem to have, we are now desperately short of stock, which is 46% down on last year (source: NAEA), in relation to the number of buyers looking, which is up 28% on the five-year average (source: Zoopla).

You may have seen in the press that there are currently 24 buyers registered for every property for sale, but this doesn’t mean that you might struggle to find somewhere to move to. It all depends on your ability to move. So don’t delay putting your property on the market, especially this year, because you might struggle to find somewhere – as 30% of sales happen “off market”. In other words, we always have properties where the seller tells us that they’ll sell if we have the right buyer. And the right buyer is usually one of our own sellers whose property is under offer to a cash buyer!

So have a little faith. If you have any thoughts of moving, please don’t be deterred. Just call us and we’ll happily come over and advise you on your options.

You might be pleasantly surprised.

H U N T P R O P E R T Y S E RV I C E S Hayley Hunt is the founder of Hunt Property Services located at 732 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 8AL 020 8502 7667 huntpropertyservices.co.uk

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Bradwell, Essex Offers In Excess Of £1,850,000

Sible Hedingham, Essex Guide Price £1,575,000

A substantial waterside family home offering extensive entertaining spaces, both indoors and out

A charming double-fronted Edwardian family home in a popular location

5 Bedrooms | 4 Reception rooms | 4 Bathrooms | Leisure complex with indoor heated swimming pool, whirlpool spa, steam room, sauna and gym | Tennis court | Gatehouse/ annexe | Mature gardens and grounds | Private river section with angling platforms | EPC Rating D | About 3.5 acres

5 Bedrooms | 4 Reception rooms | 5 Bathrooms | Detached two bedroom annex | Detached garage/workshop | Separate carport | Gated driveway | Countryside views to rear | About 2 acres | EPC Rating D

Mark Davies

John Seward

Director

Associate Director

01245 254618

01245 254606

mark.davies@struttandparker.com

john.seward@struttandparker.com

Over 50 Offices across England and Scotland, including prime Central London.

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Blackmore End, Essex Guide Price £1,500,000

Birch, Essex Guide Price £875,000

An attractive Grade II Listed country cottage with extensive accommodation

Character period property offering scope for improvement, outbuildings and grounds

4 Bedrooms | 4 Reception rooms | 2 Bathrooms |Superb kitchen breakfast room | Detached barn & stable block | 8 acres of gardens and paddock | Set in an idyllic rural landscape

5 Bedrooms | 3 Reception rooms | 2 Bathrooms | Kitchen/ dining room | Scullery | Pantry | Cellar | Stables | Barn | Garden & grounds | About 0.79 acres | Additional 0.72 acre paddock available under separate negotiation | EPC rating E

Stephen Howard Associate Director 01245 254626 stephen.howard@struttandparker.com

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@struttandparker

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Four out of Five Contracts Exchanged

Tamara Court, Chigwell £1,999,995 • • • •

3D WALKTHROUGH

3D WALKTHROUGH

Stanmore Way, Loughton

One Final Apartment Remaining New and Exclusive Residency Two Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms Captivating Interiors

Forest Road, Loughton

£1,700,000

£600,000

• • • • •

• • • • •

Located In The Prestigious Goldings Estate Four Bedrooms, Four En- Suite Bathrooms Potential To Extend (STP) Well Presented Garden Almost 3000 Sq.Ft

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Character Property Three Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms Low Maintenance Rear Garden Close To Local Amenities Residents Permit Parking

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3D WALKTHROUGH

Arabin Cottage, Loughton £5,000PCM • • • • •

3D WALKTHROUGH

Four Bedrooms, Three Bathrooms Grade II Listed Building Exceptional Grounds Three Receptions Stunning Interior and Exterior

3D WALKTHROUGH

Trevelyan Gardens, Loughton

Hycliffe Gardens, Chigwell

£2,400 per month

£1,850PCM

• • • • •

• • • • •

Three Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms Available Now Well Maintained Garden Private Parking Gated Development

Available Now Three Bedrooms, Two Bathrooms Private Driveway Manicured Garden Sought-After Location

0208 0165 333 | 165 High Road, Loughton IG IO 4LF www.ejpr.co.uk |

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SOLD

End House, Chingford £2,950,000

SOLD

Forest Lane, Chigwell £3,000,000

SOLD

SOLD

Eleven Acre Rise, Loughton

2 The Beacons, Loughton

£2,600,000

£1,600,000

£7,000PCM

SOLD

The Atrium, Buckhurst Hill £450,000

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£5,000PCM

SOLD

Dickens Cottege, Chigwell £500,000

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AT T H E T O P O F O U R G A M E

ANNABEL KABEL

ELLIOTT LAWLOR

NICOLA LAWLOR

FREDERICK CASSFORD

GRACE PERRY

HEIDI FOSTER

HOLLY DUNCAN

JAMES LAWLOR

REBECCA HAWES

ROBERT GUNN

CALL TO ARRANGE YOUR MARKET APPRAISAL LET

LET

Chigwell Grange, Chigwell

Beech Hill Park, Loughton

£7,300PCM

£8,000PCM

£5,000PCM

£7,000PCM

LET

LET

Gaynes Park Mansions, Epping £3,995PCM

Mowbray Close, Epping £5,000PCM

0208 0165 333 | 165 High Road, Loughton IG IO 4LF www.ejpr.co.uk |

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Here at Hunt we have had success after success this year with high end property being our main focus, we are expert negotiators and for that reason we have secured fantastic results for so many of our luxury home owners.

We are now looking to sign up new vendors and sell their luxury homes with our award winning process and team.

Call our offices to book a private appointment with our director Hayley Hunt who will offer you free advice and chat through how you can benefit from our very personal bespoke service.

SOLD

BRANDESBURY SQUARE REPTON PARK £ 9 7 5 ,0 0 0

SOLD

CLAYBURY HALL £ 1 ,1 4 0 ,0 0 0

SOLD

ETON HEIGHTS, WHITEHALL ROAD £ 7 5 0 ,0 0 0

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SOLD

CHIGWELL GRANGE £ 1 ,2 2 5 ,0 0 0

SOLD

CHIGWELL GRANGE £ 1 ,5 5 0 ,0 0 0

SOLD

SOLD

CLARENCE GATE, REPTON PARK

CLARENCE GATE, REPTON PARK

£ 1 ,7 0 0 ,0 0 0

SOLD

GOLDSMITH HOUSE, REPTON PARK £ 7 7 5 ,0 0 0

£ 1 ,7 7 5 ,0 0 0

SOLD

HAZEL LANE, THE AVENUE REPTON PARK £ 7 2 0 ,0 0 0

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SOLD

SOLD

HOE LANE , LAMBOURNE END

LOVE LANE, WOODFORD GREEN

THE MANOR, REPTON PARK

£ 7 2 0 ,0 0 0

£ 6 4 1 ,5 0 0

£ 4 5 0 ,0 0 0

SOLD

MONTAGUE HOUSE, REPTON PARK £ 1 ,7 5 0 ,0 0 0

SOLD

OWEN GARDENS, WOODFORD GREEN £ 6 4 0 ,5 0 0

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SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

NELMES CRESCENT, HORNCHURCH

OSBORNE HOUSE REPTON PARK

£ 8 3 0 ,0 0 0

£ 5 7 5 ,0 0 0

SOLD

SUTHERLAND HOUSE, REPTON PARK £ 5 9 5 ,0 0 0

SOLD

WENTWORTH HOUSE, REPTON PARK £ 6 0 0 ,0 0 0

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PROPERTY • FOCUS BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN IS A KEY TREND

JAMES HUNT

L O O K I N G F O R W A R D WORKING FROM HOME HAS INFLUENCED THE MARKET

T

he trio of low mortgage rates, the stamp duty holiday and changes in buyers’ priorities have all contributed to the incredible demand within the housing market in 2021. That is why we’ve managed to see an incredible leap of 30% in buyer interest across the five-year average.

So, looking ahead to what we expect to see in the market in 2022…

BUYERS LOOKING FOR SPACE

THE RETURN OF FIRST-TIME BUYERS

GOING BOLD

Now that we’re seeing an improvement in mortgage affordability, the door has opened back up to first-time buyers.

The co-founder of Durden & Hunt predicts what lies ahead for the property market in the county

Another domino effect from the pandemic is how homeowners began to prioritise space as one of their main needs in a property.

The combination of being cooped up inside, as well as businesses moving to remote working, meant that people naturally discovered how much they valued space.

Looking back over this year, we saw many choose to add eye-catching furniture and bold murals, as well as snippets of more traditional materials like gingham and linen.

With countless lockdowns, many of us were bored of being boring and wanted to bring the brightness inside. Bold colours, feature walls, textured walls and neon

By JAMES HUNT

lightings were all popular choices, adding a pop of colour to bring our homes to life.

PANELLING

One of the biggest trends to make its way through 2021 was adding panelling walls, giving a more traditional charm to rooms. Using architectural panels helps featureless walls stand out from the rest in a subtle yet stylish way.

BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN

We filled our homes with plants and gave our furniture a natural makeover. In came more natural materials, including bamboo, wicker, rattan and cane, with many favouring bringing outside elements into their homes. durdenandhunt.co.uk

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Watermans End

£1,200,000 Guide Price

4 bedroom | Detached | Matching Green Picture perfect, Watermans End House is a spectacular Grade II listed home located in Matching Green, Essex.

Lovingly maintained and restored by the current owners, this home is beautifully balanced in every way.

Revival Court

£500,000 Guide Price

2 Bedroom split level apartment | Epping A sumptuous and dreamy split level penthouse pad right in the heart of Epping.

With plenty of heart and soul this apartment is one not to miss.

“We’ve absolutely loved living at revival court the location could not be more perfect. We love grabbing a coffee at Fred and Doug’s most mornings and within 5 mins we’re in the woods and saying hello to the horses. For commuting into London Epping tube station is only an 8 min walk away, so it really is the best of both worlds.”

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Jonjo Director

Alison Director

Roding View

Joe Lettings/Sales

£650,000 Guide Price

3 Bedroom | Semi detached | Buckhurst Hill A terrific three bedroom semi detached home situated in the superb spot of Roding View, Buckhurst Hill, just a short walk from the Underground Station.

“I have lived here for over 40 years and it’s been such a lovely place to live and raise a family. Having Queens Road nearby is a delight with its variety of shops, including the popular Waitrose.”

James Street

£625,000 Overs over

3 Bedroom | Semi detached | Epping We are delighted to offer this charming 3 bedroom semi detached family home on a chain free basis. Positioned on the highly regarded James Street, Epping, here you are just 1 mile from Epping’s Underground Station.

“James street is a friendly lovely road close to Epping high street and has a green rural feel with beautiful scenery.

We have loved living here especially as the house has always had a warm welcome feeling ,not just a house but a wonderful home”

Tel - 01992 919 007 | 263 High Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4BP | hammondandsmith.co.uk HAMMOND_SMITH_JAN2022.indd 3

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LEGAL • PARTNERSHIP

A new ARRIVAL Attwells Solicitors are starting 2022 by expanding their Private Client department at their Colchester office

By ELIZABETH HENDRY

A

s the year comes to an end, now may be the best time to get your personal affairs organised so you can start 2022 on the right foot. Attwells Solicitors are a small to mediumsized law firm that can assist with this.

Their Colchester Private Client department provides a wide range of personal law services for individuals including: • Inheritance tax planning; • Wills; • Probate; • Power of attorney; • Transfers of equity, equity release and declarations of trust.

Attwells understand that many of these services are needed during challenging and emotional times. To alleviate this, they are proud to offer a jargon-free approach to the law so that you understand your options and can be in control of the matter at hand.

Within their Colchester office located on North Hill, they have recently developed a new Private Client department.

In order to better serve the Essex community, they have recruited the expertise of a new employee, Fay. Fay joined the firm in October and brings with her 17 years of experience within the Private Client sector. She has worked

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• The drafting of General Power of Attorneys and Lasting Powers of Attorney (including Financial and Health and Welfare), together with the registration of existing Enduring Powers of Attorney; • Applying for Deputyship, and all applications to the Office of the Public Guardian and Court of Protection including statutory wills.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX THE DEPARTMENT OFFERS A HOST OF SERVICES

as a solicitor across Colchester, Suffolk and Tendring in particular. As a friendly individual, she offers fantastic customer service and takes time to get to know clients on a personal level to better meet their needs.

Fay provides a caring and personalised service to ensure that her clients are looked after at all stages of a matter.

Her comprehensive expertise includes: • The drafting of Wills, including those with trusts and providing Inheritance Tax advice; • All aspects of estate administration, Wills or intestate (where there is no Will), including applying for Grants of Probate and Grants of Letters of Administration, inheritance tax forms, HMRC, collecting in assets and preparing Estate Accounts;

When asked about recently joining the company, she said: “I’m excited to have joined such a vibrant office of talented lawyers in the fast-growing Colchester Private Client department. Everyone has been so welcoming, it’s great to know I have a strong, supportive team helping me to offer the best possible level of service for my clients.”

Attwells can guide you through the process offering strong legal advice, allowing you to make informed decisions.

They are happy to attend to clients in the office or at home. In addition, some of their services can be carried out under fixed fee terms, allowing you to be able to stick to your budget. Attwells are here to assist you no matter how simple or complicated your matter may be.

AT T W E L L S S O L I C I TO R S For sympathetic legal advice, call Attwells Solicitors on 01206 766 333 or visit attwells.com

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Reinventing the caveman

Bespoke Garden buildings

Free UPVC double glazed windows and doors

Free consumer unit with sockets and lighting

Free thermostatic Control heating

Contact us today! | Tel - 07836 609972 | www.manhuts.co.uk | Manhuts Mancaves

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Plastered finish, painted inside and out

andy@manhuts.co.uk Manhuts Mancaves

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