PLUS CUT OUT THE CARBS
A fresh approach to cooking at Caldesi in Campagna, Bray
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ON THE BILL
The top summer events heading to Berkshire
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BEST IN SHOW
Why Windsor
Great Park is a family favourite
SPECIAL
Over 30 pages of inspiration and insight
TESS DALY AND GAYLE LAWTON ON THREE YEARS OF SUCCESS WITH THEIR SWIMWEAR BRAND NAIA
Doctor Nyla is a skin specialist, trusted by TV personalities, well-known celebrity figures and some of Britain’s most familiar faces in the media industry. Founder and Medical Director of Doctor Nyla Medispa is a highly respected and much sought after cosmetic Dermatology GP. Dr Nyla is a winner of Best Cosmetic Clinic 2019 to 2020 and a nomination for Best Cosmetic Doctor 2021. With the largest Exilis Elite skin tightening in the UK, alongside the second largest CoolSculpting clinic in Europe. Dr Nyla is considered one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country. Having practised medicine for over 20 years and having personally delivered over 100,000 treatments with truly exceptional results, she has gained the admiration of the industry.
The Transformation FaceliftTM is a bespoke treatment from Doctor Nyla, unique to her clinics and combining a variety of incredible anti ageing treatments to make you look and feel 10 years younger in the space of only six weeks!
Discover original and distinctive furniture designs with the latest Scandinavian styles. Customise our furniture to suit your lifestyle with the help of our interior designers and nd the perfect t for your home. Change the size, colour, nishes, con gurations and more. Book your free interior design consultation in-store or in the comfort of your own home. For further inspiration, explore our full collection online and in-store.
Bed: Sandö I Fabric: The Romo Group’s Jackie Dalmatian I Rug: Light Beige I Bed Linen: Vindstilla I Bedside table: Holme I Headboard: Rivö I Bed legs: Reling MADE BESPOKE WITH FABRICS FROM AND
The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave
EDITOR
MARK KEBBLE
ART DIRECTOR
PAWEL KUBA
SENIOR DESIGNERS
MIKE ROBERTS
SUZETTE SCOBLE
MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER
CARMEN GRAHAM
JUNIOR DESIGNER
JOE MUNSEY
PRODUCTION MANAGER
DANICA BRODIE
GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH
ABIGAIL GARDNER
MEDIA CONSULTANTS
LOUISE PEARSON, STELLA ADAMS
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
JERRIE KOLECI
CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER
ALEXANDRA HVID
DIRECTORS
CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ALEXANDRA HUNTER
MANAGING DIRECTOR
SHERIF SHALTOUT
For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com
For advertising enquiries please call 07977 195732 or email: abi@zest-media.com
Experience stillness of the body and the mind in glorious surroundings this Summer at The Langley. Exclusive Spa Days and Memberships available now.
ABSOLUTELY’S June issue highlights
Ah, summer festivals. This time of year brings back to many memories for me. One of the earliest, and best, experiences I had at a summer event was when I was in the crowd for one of Oasis' legendary Knebworth gigs in 1996. Everyone says they were there, but I was and, boy, what an experience. Although being stuck in the middle of that crowd needing to go the toilet was not so enjoyable.
In my 20s, I had plenty of experiences at dance festivals and the one year at Glastonbury, where it of course rained. The thought of those now, though, sends a shiver down the spine. I am more likely to be found at home, on the sofa with the dog watching Netflix.
However, our county does still come up trumps with events that are a little more sedate if that's your preference. Take Henley Festival: arriving by boat, drinking champagne, in a tux is right up my street. That forms part of our special summer preview where we pick out our top five events to look forward to.
Prefer to stay at home in the garden? We have you covered, too, with our Absolutely Home special, featuring lots of inspiration. Enjoy!
4 Click Style
2 Summer Preview
Absolutely Home
Soothe and nourish your hands with this gorgeous H2k Botanicals Lavender and Sandalwood Hand Wash, 250ml £16.11. ukbathrooms.com
Balmain's Beyoncé collaboration features 16 looks, each inspired by a track on Beyoncé’s Renaissance album. This is Cozy. balmain.com
COMPILED BY PENDLE HARTE
The Curve vases in gorgeous pastel tones of blush pink and lilac will inject your home with a pop of colour and curve appeal, £68. luxeology.co.uk
A collaboration between Barton Perreira and beauty brow stylist Kelley Baker has resulted in these stylish Brow Babe shades, £430.
farfetch.com
We love this 18ct Rose Gold and Diamond Pendant Set with a Cabochon Amethyst on 18ct rose gold spiga chain, £3,095. berrysjewellers.co.uk
Primadonna's Palace Garden set features all-over embroidery that runs all the way to the straps, making it as stylish as it is comfortable. ameliesfollies.co.uk
This pure silk hair wrap shields hair against the nightly friction and moisture absorption of bed linen that causes breakages, frizz and split ends, £50. silkelondon.com
Colour experts Caran d'Ache and Paul Smith have teamed up for a new special edition of the iconic 849 pen in fi ve new colour variations, £55. carandache.com
Beautifully so and tactile feathers combine with brass ball chain and a bouclé trim in the showstopping Juliette light, £445. coldharbourlights.com
ROBE use animals as part of its
Orchard Moon's kimonos are so and smooth as silk, but 100% plant-based. Unlike silk, this fabric doesn’t use animals as part of its production process, £260. orchardmoon.com
The century of the biggest race in endurance racing will take place on 10-11 June 2023. The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an endurance-focused sports car race held annually near the town of Le Mans, France. It is the world's oldest active endurance racing event and, locally, Silverstone Museum is hosting a very special look at the race and its history, which you can read about over the page.
MUSICAL
13-17 JUNE, THE HEXAGON, READING
It is 35 years since The Commitments first burst from the pages of Roddy Doyle’s best-selling novel. The world’s hardest working and most explosive soul band are set to return in an all new stage production, starring Coronation Street legend Nigel Pivaron performing the role of ‘Da’ in this all-new production.
whatsonreading.com/hexagon
21 June
CITY ARTS NEWBURY
There will be a series of Open Exhibitions on various themes throughout 2023 at City Arts Newbury, a hub of artistic talent across the county. The June 2023 Open Exhibition will be themed around The Longest Day, where they are looking to exhibit local artists' works celebrating the sun and the summer solstice in any media. cityartsnewbury.org
ART FAMILY
2-3 June
THE EYOT CENTRE
Explore a new hobby at the Try-Cycle Experience with Jorvik Tricycles. Discover an alternative way to travel and enjoy the freedom of three wheels in the beautiful surroundings of The Eyot Centre, near Henley Bridge. There will be an outdoor track set up so visitors can experience the exhilaration of riding a tricycle for themselves, as well as the chance to speak to experts from the Jorvik Tricycles team about the products and features. jorviktricycles.com
CORN EXCHANGE
In an intimate evening of comic reflection, reminiscence, and revelation, award-winning writer and comedian Andy Hamilton looks back over his more than 40 years in comedy and 70(ish) years on the planet and tries to answer some questions. He recalls stories from his extensive professional career in comedy, and shares memories, anecdotes, and opinions, from the political to the personal. In the second half of the show, the audience can ask Andy questions on any topic at all. cornexchangenew.com
MUSICAL
29 May-3 June
MILTON KEYNES THEATRE
Emmerdale star Ayden
Callaghan will join Grammynominated, former Pussycat Doll, Melody Thornton, for the award-winning international smash hit musical in the roles of Frank Farmer and Rachel Marron respectively. Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. atgtickets.com
Silverstone Museum is celebrating 100 Years of Le Mans with an exhibition featuring iconic cars, magnificent memorabilia and exhilarating stories. The museum is shining a spotlight on the world’s most renowned endurance race, marking Le Mans’ momentous milestone with its exciting exhibition, showcasing incredible cars and famous drivers. Cars on display include the twice winning 1987 Porsche 962 and 1953 Le Mans Austin Healey 100. silverstonemuseum.co.uk
New in Berkshire and opening on 10 and 24 June is 13 Broom Acres. Densely planted and decadently flowering, this spellbinding quarter acre suburban romantic style garden with shrubbery, exotics, specimen trees, scented climbers and mixed herbaceous borders is a feast for the senses. Also new is 6 Beverley Gardens in Wargrave that opens on 18 and 25 June. The main garden has primarily exotic and Mediterranean planting with small paths through some of the beds, inviting you to take a closer look. In Buckinghamshire, Chiltern Haven joins the portfolio of gardens to visit on 24 June. This delightful country garden of over 1½ acres has a wide range of
flowering and foliage plants. Bulbs, perennials, roses, shrubs and trees have been chosen to provide continuous interest, with colour concentrated in purple, pink, blue and lemon. The lawns around the house have deep, curving borders with sunny and shady aspects. There is also a wildlife pond, old orchard, small vegetable garden and greenhouse o ering plenty of inspiration to visitors. Don’t forget the old favourites and be sure to explore the wonderful gardens that open in the Long Crendon Gardens group in Buckinghamshire on 11 June. You can’t fail to be delighted!
Discover all the gardens opening for the charity in June across both counties by visiting the National Garden Scheme’s website at ngs.org.uk
ROYAL ASCOT
From 20–24 June, thrillseekers and racegoers will come together to escape the ordinary and indulge in a week of celebration at Royal Ascot. Steeped in history, the illustrious event sets the stage for worldclass horse racing in all its joy, igniting passions and inspiring new generations to leave their everyday at the door. Watch on as world-class thoroughbreds thunder towards glory in the tranquil surroundings of the English countryside. Whether you’re savouring a champagne picnic on the vast trackside lawns or donning your most extravagant headpiece at the Bandstand, you’re invited to experience the undeniable charm of Royal Ascot’s unique enclosures this summer. Unbridle yourself from routine at Royal Ascot. This is where the nation comes to play. ascot.com
HENLEY FESTIVAL
The eagerly anticipated line up for the Henley Festival has been announced. Triple BRIT Award winner Rag’n’Bone Man will open Henley Festival 2023 on 5 July. Best known for his hit single and 4x platinum #1 album Human, which held its position in the charts for 29 weeks straight, he has since continued to dominate the charts through collaborations, singles and releasing his second #1 album Life by Misadventure in 2021.
On Thursday 6 July, the Floating Stage will host Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Mark Feehily, aka the most successful Irish boyband of all time: Westlife. With 33 #1 albums worldwide and countless accolades, one of pop music’s most influential boybands will thrill the Henley crowd with their chart-topping hits including Flying Without Wings,
With the days longer and temperatures rising, here are five of the best events to look forward to
World of Our Own and Uptown Girl Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee and a multiple Grammy Award winning songwriter, composer, producer, arranger, guitarist and music legend, Nile Rodgers will be returning to Henley Festival to headline Friday night. As the co-founder of CHIC, Rodgers pioneered a musical language that generated chart-topping hits like Le Freak, the biggest selling single in the history of Atlantic Records, and sparked the advent of hip-hop with Good Times Ministry of Sound Classical takes on the very best tunes hand-picked from dance music history and recreates in a breath-taking performance by an incredible 30-piece orchestra on 8 July. The beautiful riverside backdrop will set the scene for a live music spectacle,
featuring guest DJ Danny Rampling and stunning vocalists performing classical remakes of iconic dance anthems. Sunday Night Sessions will reflect the breadth and depth of Henley Festival. Floating Stage performances from Ronnie Scott’s, presenting the finest Jazz since 1959, travelling from Soho to Henley for an unforgettable jazztastic show, followed by the euro-disco phenomenon Boney M. with the original lead singer Liz Mitchell back by popular demand, performing international chartbusters with a 15-piece band as the sun goes down. To top o the evening, firmly established as one of Britain’s biggest and best-loved comedy stars, Jack Dee will be performing in the Riverside Cabaret venue. henley-festival.co.uk
Richard Ashcroft has been announced for an outdoor show in the stunning grounds of Englefield House near Pangbourne in Berkshire this summer, as part of the Heritage Live concert series. The iconic singer-songwriter will perform in the grounds of the Elizabethan country house and estate on Saturday 22 July 2023, alongside special guests for the event Ocean Colour Scene and The Sherlocks.
Ashcroft is a two-time Ivor Novello winner (Songwriter of the Year in 1998 and Outstanding Contribution to British Music in 2019) who has released five Top 5 solo albums, including the #1 debut Alone With Everybody, and most recently last year his #2 album Acoustic Hymns He first came to attention with The Verve, with who he released one of the biggest albums of the era in the shape of Urban Hymns (the UK’s 18th biggest selling album of all-time) as well as a succession of anthems
which remain staples of his live set today, including The Drugs Don’t Work, Bittersweet Symphony, Lucky Man, and Sonnet.
Following this, award-winning, multiplatinum singer and songwriter Hozier has been announced for a huge outdoor show on Sunday 23 July, supported by special guests Far From Saints and Victoria Canal.
The show in the grounds of Englefield House comes after Hozier released his most recent EP, Eat Your Young, in honour of his birthday and St Patrick’s Day on 17 March, featuring all new material across three tracks, All Things End, Through Me (The Flood) and the title track. The EP is out now and available digitally. Working on further music, his third album Unreal Unearth is set for release later this year.
Flackstock, the festival raising awareness of mental health issues and funds for mental health charities in memory of TV presenter Caroline Flack, has also been announced at Englefield House to take place on Monday 24 July, for the second year running. The Friday and Sunday night Heritage Live shows will be announced over the coming weeks. heritagelive.net
“The beautiful river backdrop will set the scene”
Aspectacular, open-air woodland amphitheatre with panoramic treescape vistas, The Mount amplifies the senses, providing immersive musical experiences in the heart of nature. This brand-new music venue near Reading is sited within one of the most diverse estates in England, Wasing, renowned for its exclusive wedding venue, organic farm and wild swim lake and sauna. Upon arrival, visitors will amble along a beautiful woodland trail to the amphitheatre where an array of seasonal cuisine and world music awaits.
The Mount's Opening Ceremony, Solstice At The Mount, will take place at Summer Solstice on 21 June 2023. A moment that takes place on the same day everywhere on the planet, the Solstice connects everyone in a truly global moment. This inaugural concert will feature a mesmerising line-up of world music from the Yawanawa, an indigenous people of Brazil, and spellbinding sets
from Australian singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Xavier Rudd. It will be a captivating celebration of culture, food and music in one magical evening. wasing.co.uk/themount
International icon Tom Jones is set to delight fans when he returns to Newbury Racecourse on Saturday 22 July, for a full headline set after racing. Along with sustaining his popularity as a live performer and recording artist for more than six decades, Jones continues to garner critical acclaim, including with the release of his most recent album, Surrounded By Time. The album made him the oldest male to claim a number 1 spot on the UK O cial Album Chart with an album of new material, overtaking Bob Dylan.
It is the most recent high point in a career full of highlights, including a deeply cherished knighthood from Her Majesty The Queen in 2006. Other highlights of his long career include receiving multiple BRIT Awards, a Silver Clef Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Hitmaker Award from the [US] Songwriters Hall of Fame, GQ Man Of The Year, and the prestigious [UK] Music Industry Trusts Award.
Fellow The Voice coach Olly Murs will headline on BetVictor Hungerford Day Saturday 19 August. newburyracecourse.co.uk
“The Mount provides an immersive musical experience in the heart of nature”PHOTO: ROBIN POPE
Exclusive membership boating on the Thames at Henley.
Enjoy a fleet of luxury self-drive launches whenever you like, for a one-off annual fee. For incentivised, hassle-free boating, call us today.
Hobbs of Henley is also open for river trips and self-drive hire by the hour or day.
Hobbs of Henley
Station Road, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 1AZ.
T: (01491) 572 035
E: boats@hobbsofhenley.co.uk www.hobbsofhenley.com
Linssen 35AC ‘Knightsdream ’
Alfastreet 23‘Evo ’
Antaris Connery 25 ‘Aquavir’
Buckinghamshire locals Tess Daly and Gayle Lawton are celebrating three years of running their business, NAIA Beach. We dive in to find out more
By MARK KEBBLENAIA Beach was built by the longtime friends Tess Daly and Gayle Lawton, who share a mutual passion for travel and fashion.
With a new collection launching for summer, Absolutely sat down with the two Buckinghamshire locals to find out about the origins of the business, what they have learnt along the way, and where in the county they get away from it all.
Q Tell us about the new ICON collection?
TESS: We are always inspired by incredible women and trust me there are many of them! We really wanted the ICON SS23 collection to encapsulate the strength and power of some of the most iconic women both past and present. That’s why we have named the pieces after strong females such as Ella Fitzgerald, Raquel Welch and Goldie Hawn, someone who has inspired me so much on a personal level since I am an ambassador for her brilliant children’s mental health charity MIND UP.
GAYLE: Sustainability is also hugely important to us, so we have increased our o ering of sustainable swimwear. We have built on the endless positive feedback from our NAIA women around the globe and created supremely chic, glamorous and empowering on trend designs, while consistently maintaining
our brand promise for quality and of course that all important, incredibly flattering fit.
Q Which pieces do you particularly love from it?
G: My personal favourite is the gold story we have created, with the beautiful, supremely flattering Goldie Swimsuit and the Stevie Maxi dress. It’s pure statement glamour.
T: I’m currently obsessing over our navy zebra swimsuit and matching kaftan; it’s other-level chic. Plus I’m so proud of the Farrah split-leg white jumpsuit: it is the jumpsuit I’ve been looking for my whole life! It’s so versatile and utterly fabulous, either as a cover-up or worn alone.
Q How do you start to work on a new collection?
T: We are constantly gathering inspiration from our surroundings; at home or overseas, be it a vintage market where we might spot inspiration for a particularly stunning print, or it could be a beautifully coloured turquoise door in a cobbled street in the South of France.
G: We find so much inspiration on our travels, yet we pride ourselves on our unique designs which we proudly believe are unmatched in the current market. We launch a new season while simultaneously working on designs for the next season, so it’s a constant creative flow. We have only recently launched the ICON SS23 collection,
“We are always inspired by incredible women”
are finalising our debut capsule Cruise/ Resort pieces, and of course we are already working on designs for our SS24 collection. Of course, as with any fashion forward company we are interested in the current catwalk trends, but more importantly, we know what we like to wear and also what the NAIA woman likes to wear to feel her confident best. So we start with looking at the feedback we have from our loyal customers; since it is integral to us that we maintain the flattering, glamorous and timeless style NAIA Beach is now known for.
Q How would you describe your working relationship?
T: A bit like a marriage. Seriously, it’s a good job we get on so well because we spend all day EVERY day (and most
nights) talking to each other! I honestly couldn’t have done this with anyone else. We work incredibly hard; we trust each other implicitly, but we also laugh a LOT!
G: First and foremost, we are friends, and more like family. We work closely together on all aspects as we have the same drive and vision for the brand, but we also know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, so we have fallen very easily into defined roles, which brings out the best in both of us.
Q What originally inspired NAIA Beach?
G: We were on a family holiday together in St Tropez and we both struggled to
find swimwear that ticked the boxes that NAIA now does. Amazing quality, stylish designs which also fit beautifully and made you feel confident wearing them.
T: We both decided that if we couldn’t find what we were looking for while in one of the swimwear capitals of the world, then other women must be having the same problem.
Q You launched as we were coming out of lockdown – a tough time to do it?
G: Absolutely! We launched when there was a travel ban so it made it even more of a challenge. What lockdown did do was give us the time to focus on NAIA and really be creative with it. We worked on every element of the brand from the name to labels and packaging, the website… the list is endless.
T: It is all our work and we are incredibly proud of it. And we had a sell-out, which is quite an achievement for any new brand in their first season. It made those long hours of hard work totally worth it.
Q Why did you feel what you had to o er was di erent?
G: We knew there was a definite gap in the market for well fitting, beautiful quality, glamorous, figure enhancing designs because we simply couldn’t find them ourselves.
T: We both have a huge interest in fashion and design and combined experience of over two decades working in the fashion industry. I have lived in most of the world’s fashion capitals from Paris to New York and beyond and was lucky enough to work with many of
“We knew there was a gap for well fitting, figure enhancing designs”THE DUO BUSY CREATING NEW DESIGNS
Poggenpohl has 17 points of sale throughout the UK & Ireland · uk@poggenpohl.com
For your nearest Poggenpohl Studio please go to www.poggenpohl.com
the leading designers as a fashion model.
G: I was a swimwear fit model for many years, working with many high profile brands who actually fit their designs to me, so I knew exactly how swimwear should look and allimportantly FEEL in order to empower the wearer, so combining both credentials we felt we had the necessary skills and experience to create something uniquely special.
Q Why is sustainability important to you?
T: We are always inspired by the beautiful world we live in, and we are absolutely committed to doing our bit to help keep it that way, which is why the new collection features more pieces made from recycled and upcycled materials.
G: We feel we have a duty to ensure we protect the world we live in and make sure it’s a world that our children and their children can enjoy.
Q How would you sum up the past three years for NAIA Beach?
G: Just incredible. A huge learning experience; of course, starting a new business isn’t without its challenges, but ultimately it has been so rewarding.
T: It’s a little bit like giving birth: exhausting yet ultimately exhilarating and hugely rewarding. And we genuinely couldn’t be prouder. We are incredibly grateful to our gorgeous NAIA women who tell us they’ve never felt more confident in swimwear, and they embody what our brand is all about. They literally feel like extended family.
Q What would you say is the biggest thing you have learnt so far?
G: To really listen and take advice from people when they are generous enough to give you their time, use it and always be grateful for the support.
T: When it comes to business your team are everything and good vibes totally RULE. Goodwill is everything in business; hard work makes it happen, but goodwill maintains it and keeps it running smoothly.
Q What else is coming up?
T: It feels like a really exciting time for NAIA, we are growing both here in the UK and globally. It’s a privilege being able to work creatively in a business that’s a genuine passion project of ours.
G: We are gaining demand from customers all around the world to be sold in stores local to them so that is a huge drive for us. We are also showcasing our collection in Miami for the world’s biggest swimshow.
Q What would be your ideal summer holiday?
G: The south of France always holds a magic for me, that I just can’t describe. So, for me it’s a family holiday, a nice beach with good food and drink, music and beautiful cobbled streets with interesting shops and a culture that you can really engross yourself in.
T: In a nutshell: family and friends, long lunches, lots of rosé and plenty of glorious ocean swimming, in NAIA of course!
Q When back home, do you have some favourite summer spots?
G: We are really fortunate to live in the Chilterns with some beautiful walks to choose from. We are lucky enough to live quite close to the Thames so riverside walks are always a treat. We take our dog out on Sunday for a long walk and always end up in a country pub for a Sunday roast.
T: I’m a real foodie and there are some wonderful places quite locally that would be high on my list of recommendations including Cliveden House, The Waterside in Bray or for a real treat Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. Top of my to do list this summer is to have standup paddleboard lessons. Having fun while keeping fit sounds like a good idea to me!
naiabeach.com
Buckinghamshire Council are with you every step of the way, as you do something amazing
Buckinghamshire Council is calling for more people to sponsor Ukrainian guests in the county, becoming so-called ‘Rematching Sponsors’ to provide a temporary home for local Ukrainian individuals and families who are moving out of their initial accommodation.
Ivanna arrived in the UK on 25 March 2022 as one of the first Ukrainians to flee the war in their country. Under the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme and with the support of her sponsor and Buckinghamshire Council, she settled quickly into life with her sponsor family.
Ivanna said: “I am grateful to have an opportunity to stay in the UK during such a di cult time. The UK government and sponsors have been so welcoming and arranged for all possible help one could think of. I did not speak English when I arrived in the UK, however there was a lot of help with signing-up for English courses which helped me greatly with settling down. Also, I had a lot of support in terms of finding job opportunities. Our local coordinators are always in close communication too and can assist with any questions that may come up – I feel safe and warmly welcomed.”
Martin Tett, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, commented: “I am pleased that Ivanna has been looked after so well during her stay with us in Buckinghamshire. Leaving friends, family, and everything you know is incredibly hard and we remain dedicated to supporting our arriving guests and sponsors through every step of the transition process.
“Like Ivanna’s sponsors, while many residents are happy to extend and continue to sponsor people from Ukraine, for some it isn’t feasible to continue beyond the first six months – which is why there is an immediate requirement to encourage and support people to register their interest in becoming Rematching Sponsors.”
Rematching is vitally important as it o ers guests the opportunity to stay in the same community they have already settled in. Tania talks about her experience of rematching: “I came to the UK with my 9-year-old son and 75-year-old mother. After our initial sponsorship ended, we were struggling to find a private rental property we could a ord. We asked the council for help with a rematch and they found a wonderful host called Fiona who has a beautiful dog who my son loves.
“Before Fiona came forward to help us we thought we would have to be split up to find suitable housing, but now we are able to stay together. Fiona is very supportive and gives us all kinds of practical advice. I am so grateful to everybody who helps and supports Ukrainians in these hard times and I admire the generosity of your hearts.”
More information, including the wealth of support available, can be found online: buckinghamshire.gov.uk/ become-a-rematching-sponsor
Q How do you feel to be known as The Divorce Coach?
A When I founded my business in 2013, I cornered a gap in the market by pioneering a completely new niche of coaching and made it my mission to educate the industry through media and marketing campaigns. Whilst
I knew this was a niche area of coaching, I underestimated the time it would take me to put break-up and divorce coaching on the map. Despite it being commonplace in the US, very few people in the UK knew what it was or how it worked. So, I invested my own money from my divorce settlement, such was my faith and belief in the business, and got to work. A decade on, I’ve built a global business.
Q Why do you think your approach works?
A Having been through my own di cult divorce I really understand the journey my clients are on. The tools I share with clients are tools I have personally tried and tested on myself, so I know they work and also how I can tweak them to specific situations. One fundamental consideration is that everyone is di erent, and the approach can never be a ‘one size fits all’. For example, I recently had three clients all with their partner leaving them for someone else. One client was distraught, crying, and unable to dress in anything other than an old tracksuit; another was livid, chopping up clothing and full of hatred; another was simply relieved but feeling stuck and unsure about her future. The first session I have with new clients involves listening to what they have experienced, looking for ‘red flags’ and identifying the most e ective tools to help them.
Q How has your business evolved over the years?
A Having established my coaching business, I went on to write my first book, Uncoupling, in 2016, which quickly became a bestseller. Things really took o from there and I made a name for myself after establishing the UK’s first ever Break-Up Recovery Retreat, dubbed as ‘Heartbreak Hotel’, which launched with rave reviews across national media and was commissioned as a TV show in Ireland. I also wrote another bestselling book, The Split, and launched Heartbreak to HappinessPodcast
A particular passion point for me was helping people in emotionally abusive and toxic relationships recover and heal, so I started working with The Dash Charity in Slough as their patron, helping to raise awareness of the vital life-saving work they do. I went on to launch the UK’s first dedicated retreat for ‘How to divorce an abusive partner and recover from a toxic relationship’ and was the founder of the International Abuse Awareness Conference. I also run a Master Practitioner programme accredited by both myself as well as The Dash Charity, educating coaches as well as family law firms (for whom there is no compulsory training) on what emotional abuse is and also how to support people through it. Educating the industry and putting divorce on the map as a traumatic life event has always been so important on my journey, so I dedicate a lot of my time being a media commentator and, as a certified motivational speaker, speaking at events around the world. I also get involved in lobbying at government level and consulted on the rennet divorce law reform as well as the recent Positive Parenting alliance scheme, which is calling for a divorce leave scheme and for HR policies to recognise that separation or divorce is akin to a bereavement.
Q How does your home life fit in with your business?
A It is definitely a busy career, although it is more of a lifestyle for me as I love my work and am passionate about everything I do. I’m lucky to have a great team around me who I really enjoy working with and who have been key in helping me achieve where we are today.
I always make sure I spend quality time with my son when he is home with me and I also have a puppy who loves to be walked a couple of times a day. This helps me to keep a good balance. I also love my fitness so am a regular at the gym.
Q How long have you lived in Ascot for and what do you love about it?
A I have lived in Ascot for 10 years now and I love so much about it. I have lots of lovely friends in the area, great neighbours and a fabulous local pub called The Thatched Tavern. Ascot is a beautiful place to live and I’m out dog walking every day in nature.
Q Where are your favourite places to visit, either close by or further afield?
A Favourite pub would have to be The Thatched Tavern – great Sunday lunch, but also a friendly place for a drink and my fave pub garden spot for a Pimm’s in the summer. Fego for breakfast at the weekend. I can take To ee, my dog, with me as they are dog friendly and have so many yummy yet healthy options to choose from.
Virginia Water up by the lake is one of the most beautiful spots.
For more information visit saradavison.com, and listen to Sara’s podcast at heartbreaktohappinesspodcast.com
“IT IS MORE OF A LIFESTYLE FOR ME AS I LOVE MY WORK”SHE LOVES THE OUTDOORS IN THE AREA OUT AND ABOUT WITH TOFFEE
HOBBS OF HENLEY
If you’d like to explore Britain’s most historic river or just relax and let the world drift by there’s no better way to start than with Hobbs. Based in the beautiful riverside market town of Henley-on-Thames, you can experience your very own self-driven boat with their boat hire or enjoy a public cruise or private charter. And, inside, you can read about a rather tasty new partnership they have struck up with Atul Kochhar to make their experiences even more memorable. hobbsofhenley.com
By EATALY
The Pantelleria estate, a small island o the coast of Southern Italy, is home to Ben Ryè wines. This 2020 wine uses Zibibbo grapes and provides an extraordinary rich bouquet with outstanding aromas obtained from the dried grapes.
Kellerei Cantina TerlanTerlaner Cuvèe Riserva, Nova Domus 2020
This vineyard is located in the north of Italy, which allows for varying climates between day and night. This fresh, subtle wine is light yellow in colour and soft on the palate, o ering a creamy softness with a hint of herbs and spices.
By MARK KEBBLE
Borgogno - No Name
Borgogno is one of the oldest continuously operating winery in Barolo, Piedmont in the North of Italy. Ethereal, persistent with violet, rose, fresh fruits and spicy hints on the nose this dry, velvety, full-bodied wine is our top pick this season.
EATALY
Eataly hosts intimate guided tastings led by resident wine experts where you can discover the very best Italian wineries and distilleries. eatalyvino.com
THE BUTCHER’S TAP & GRILL
Summer is almost here and what better way to show o your skills on the grill than with the brand-new Big Cuts Barbecue Pack from The Butcher’s Tap & Grill in Marlow from Tom Kerridge. The go-to butcher’s shop come pub has created the ultimate barbecue pack for big appetites, featuring exceptional British produce from freerange native breeds sourced from their trusted suppliers including Dovecote Park Farm and HG Walter. tomkerridge.com
MK GALLERY
EASTHAMPSTEAD PARK
Take a trip to the rolling fields of Berkshire at The Pheasant Inn, located a stone’s throw from the famed Valley of the Racehorse and nestled amongst the chalk downlands. Ramblers can explore attractions from Highclere Castle to the North Wessex Downs, before retreating to the bar where a pint will be waiting. Stay in one of the 14 bedrooms, furnished with fluted armchairs and ottoman beds. thepheasant-inn.co.uk
COWORTH PARK
The stylish hotel Coworth Park has just launched a new British Summer Cocktail menu, sourcing a range of British ingredients to celebrate the Great British Summer. From vodkas to vermouths, gins, and bitters, taking the classics and giving them a twist. Names of the new cocktails include Kings Negroni, Polo Summer Cup, Kensington Palace, Bakewell Vesper, and Paddington’s Marmalade Spritz. dorchestercollection.com
Perhaps you're looking to celebrate Father's Day in Wokingham or Bracknell this year by dining out with family or friends? If so, why not consider the superb Father’s Day dining options at this local favourite on Sunday 18 June, which are already in high demand. eastpark.co.uk
Did you know that MK Gallery Café customers drank more than 9,203 cups of tea last year –proof that for some it’s the best drink of the day, and for others it’s one of life’s essentials. That’s why the Café team is brewing a new, seriously good tea for its customers. Hot on the heels of switching co ee supplier to Milk & Beans, Andrew Papworth, Café Manager, has upped the ante and selected independent Brew Tea Co. as its preferred supplier. mkgallery.org
THE GOLDEN
Head to this Bracknell favourite on Sunday 18 June and treat dad to a celebration just as wonderful as he is with a delicious Father’s Day 3-Course Set Menu. Expect tempting seared fillets of sea bass and the familiar comforts of a traditional sirloin of beef roast. vintageinn.co.uk
THE ELEPHANT AT THE MARKET
VILLIERS HOTEL
If you're looking for a delicious way to celebrate Father's Day in Buckinghamshire, the restaurant here has superb lunch and dinner options available over the weekend. Go enjoy a meal with dad and make it a day to remember. villiers-hotel.co.uk
Situated in Newbury’s historic Market Square, this 14-room boutique pub features a modern chic beer garden, housing a quirky metal shipping container, available for private hire for parties up to 16 people. Ideal for casual summer soirées, guests can dive into the extensive list of craft beers, ales or cocktails and indulge in a menu full of seasonal delights. theelephantatthemarket.com
Diabetes forced TV chef Giancarlo Caldesi on a strict diet, but with the help of his wife, Katie, he has learned to love Italian food again
Words REBECCA
While the Mediterranean diet is widely acclaimed for its health benefits,when you think of Italian food, it’s usually calorie and carb-laden pasta, pizza and oil-soaked focaccia that first spring to mind.
For Montepulicano-born chef Giancarlo Caldesi and his wife Katie, who own Bray restaurant Caldesi in Campagna, traditional Italian staples like these were a part of everyday life and a mainstay of the menus at their restaurants.
That was, however, until Giancarlo su ered a health scare at the age of 59. Driving home one day, his vision went blurry, forcing him to pull over on the side of the road. “It really scared him,” Katie tells me of the incident in 2011.
“Fortunately, his vision came back, but it gave him such a shock that he decided to go to a doctor there and then and he was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.”
While the diagnosis was a surprise, Giancarlo – who is often described as ‘The Godfather of Tuscan cooking’ and starred, together with Katie, in BBC2 documentary Return To Tuscany – had been su ering from what the couple later realised were textbook symptoms for some time.
“He held weight around the middle, was tired all the time, thirsty. He had probably had it for 10 years undiagnosed. He had terrible gout too,” explains Katie, who originally hails
from Sussex and first met Giancarlo when he commissioned her to paint a Roman mural at one of his restaurants. “I fell in love with his pasta and he fell in love with my artwork,” she smiles.
The doctors told Giancarlo to cut out sugar, but it wasn’t quite as simple as holding back on the Italian desserts and sugar in his cappuccinos. He had also been eating pasta, sometimes twice a day and overloading on starchy carbohydrates, which turn to sugar. In another blow to the chef, he then found out he was gluten intolerant.
“It was a double whammy,” admits mum-of-two Katie, whose sons Giorgio, 22, and Flavio, 20, share their parents’ love of cooking and both work in restaurants. “It’s awful for a chef to
be told they’re gluten intolerant, but that probably saved his life because he didn’t like gluten free pasta so he just gave it up.” Over the next 18 months, Giancarlo lost nearly four stone and his HbA1c (average blood glucose) levels almost halved from 79 mmol/mol to 38 mmol/mol.
The couple, who also run La Cucina Caldesi Cookery School with sites in Bray, London and Gerrards Cross, have since used their combined 93 years’ cooking experience to become leading advocates for the health benefits of a low-carb diet and have even come up with a bespoke CarbScale to help people determine what level of carbohydrates their body can tolerate.
“I fell in love with his pasta and he fell in love with my artwork”
“We’ve found this whole low carb community, which we had no idea about,” explains Katie, who is quick to reiterate that their lifestyle is low-carb, not no-carb. “I love green vegetables and of course they have carbs in them, but it’s the starchy and refined carbs we try to avoid.”
It is this balanced approach that has been the catalyst for the pair’s latest book, The Low Carb Italian Kitchen, the fifth in their bestselling series of health and nutrition cookbooks, which share how you can still eat some of the tastiest food on the planet without compromising on your health.
From sugar-freedolciand lowcarb pizza to portion-controlled pasta with abundant vegetables and delicious antipasti, the new book, which has been written with scientific input from low carb specialists Dr David and Dr Jen Unwin and nutritional therapist Jenny Phillips, contains over 80 Italian recipes.
“The book di ers from our previous books in that it does include pasta as our family has proven that small portions of these traditional foods can be included in a low-carb diet,” Katie says. “Giancarlo has found he can now have the odd portion of pasta and we have just been in Italy and I have had pasta almost every day, but I have had small portions with lots of protein and vegetables. It’s all about moderation and making sure you fill up on vegetables and big salads which can be delicious and very satisfying.”
On 10 June, Katie and Giancarlo will be at the The Royal Windsor Flower Show demonstrating to visitors exactly how they can make salads more exciting. “Someone once told me that a salad should be like an interesting conversation with a stranger, the more you eat into the bowl of salad, the more you should
find out interesting things, like a bitter leaf or a sweet flower or some wild herbs,” says Katie, whose library of over a dozen cookbooks written with Giancarlo includes Around the World in Salads: 120 ways to love your leaves.
While fundamentally cooks and restaurateurs, the Caldesis see themselves as teachers and as well as passing on their knowledge through their books and cookery schools, their website The Good Kitchen Table acts as an online resource to help others on their journey to wellness through healthy eating.
“I think it’s been so thrilling to learn all these recipes from around the world and cook yummy food that’s pretty easy and is healthy, and to share and pass that on is just a wonderful feeling,” adds Katie. “Giancarlo has been able to reverse his Type 2 diabetes and if he can do it, so can others who might find themselves in a similar situation.”
Giancarlo sums it up pretty well in the introduction to the couple’s latest book: “I have found a new way to live Italian and I love it as I feel well again.”
The Low Carb Italian Kitchen is published by Hachette UK, RRP £20. caldesi.com
thegoodkitchentable.com
Fill your plate with more vegetables. Things like cabbage, cauliflower, pumpkin and swede make great substitutes for staples like potatoes, bread, pasta and rice.
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Eat seasonally – a tomato grown in a Dutch Polytunnel in December is never going to yield much joy, but if you have a tomato grown in the Isle of Wight or even your own back garden in August, it’s going to taste delicious.
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Located in the beautiful countryside of Padworth in Royal Berkshire, The Old Rectory is a country house that creates the perfect setting for weddings and other celebrations.
If you’ve started your wedding planning journey and looking for the perfect wedding venue, we would love to welcome you to The Old Rectory at our upcoming open day:
Sunday 2nd July : 12pm – 3pm
No appointment needed. Have a look round our elegant country house and grounds, buy a drink from the bar and chat to our wedding coordinators.
theoldrectoryberkshire.co.uk | @theoldrectoryberkshire
This summer Hobbs of Henley, the home of luxury boating since 1870, can announce an exciting new collaboration with AMOD Events by Atul Kochhar. For the new partnership with Hobbs of Henley, AMOD Events will o er a selection of bespoke menus to complement the special occasion and enjoyed when you charter one of Hobbs of Henley’s luxury vessels.
One of the first British-based Indian chefs to receive a Michelin star, Atul Kochhar has been at the forefront of championing high-end Indian cuisine for the past three decades. In addition to his portfolio of outstanding modern Indian restaurants and best-selling cookbooks, Atul’s nationwide bespoke catering company, AMOD Events, o ers sensational Indian cuisine to small and large groups – ideal for weddings, corporate hospitality, charitable events and any occasion deserving first-class catering.
Atul says: “I am thrilled to partner with Hobbs of Henley and can’t wait for people to taste the menus I’ve devised. We hope they’ll make your on-board experience just that little bit more special.”
The flagship four-course menu includes dishes such as Atul’s famous chicken tikka pie; roasted monkfish with honey mustard dressing; Lake District lamb rump with aloo anardana and rogan sauce; plus ‘chocolate textures’ to finish. A Royal Bu et is also o ered, as well as an Indian Afternoon Tea menu featuring sandwiches such as tandoori chicken tikka; coronation chicken; smoked salmon with lemon cream and dill; cucumber, green pea hummus and mint chutney; and an assortment of scones, mini cheesecakes and mini macaroons.
The Great Indian Thali is another highlight. Drawing on the concept of everyone being served together, from a big plate containing many dishes, the Maharaja Thali features dishes such as Kashmiri chicken tikka; Jaipuri lamb kebab; Goan
fish curry; boneless laal maas; butter chicken; dal makhani; green pea pulao; butter naan; rasmalai, and much more. A vegetarian Maharaja thali is also served.
Jonathan Hobbs, Managing Director of Hobbs of Henley Ltd, adds: “We have been admirers of Atul Kochhar for some time now so are very excited for this partnership of luxury charters with exquisite cuisine. The finest award winning Indian cuisine combined with the best of British boating – the perfect summer partnership!”
To enquire about this exciting new collaboration email charter@hobbsofhenley.co.uk or call 01491 572035. For more information about AMOD Events visit atulkochhar.com
“The finest Indian cuisine combined with the best of British boating”ATUL KOCHHAR LAMB CURRY
DRAKE & MORGAN
Drake and Morgan's all-weather Laurent-Perrier Champagne
Terrace has been dressed top-to-toe with blush fl orals, twinkling lights and prettyin-pink décor for the ultimate Instagrammable backdrop . drakeandmorgan.co.uk
DE VERE WOKEFIELD
De Vere Wokefi eld Estate is set in 250 acres of beautiful Berkshire countryside. The Grade II listed Mansion House features an outdoor terrace overlooking the back lawns joined to their new 1560 Restaurant & Bar. devere.co.uk
ROTUNDA
Regent’s Canal will have you feeling like you’re in the Mexican Riviera with Rotunda’s new terrace. Dine on small plates including tuna tartare or refried bean tacos served with tequila, lime and pico de gallo salsa. rotundabarandrestaurant.co.uk
It’s time to start living again a er all that wind and rain, and what better way to do so than with some alfresco drinks and dining. Chalk's al fresco dining and drinking isn’t just limited to the sunny days, as there are heaters and parasols. chalkrestaurants.com
Warm days call for fresh light dishes and the summer menu on Sumi's terrace includes sushi and sashimi alongside the restaurant’s perennially popular ‘temaki’ hand rolls. sushisumi.com
BERRY'S JEWELLERS
Launched by Chopard in 1993, with their five freedom-loving dancing diamonds set between the two sapphire crystals topping the dial, the Happy Sport floating diamond watch models epitomise the noble legacy of sporty-chic style. Discover the collection at your nearest Berry’s boutique or at berrysjewellers.co.uk
Penelope Chilvers 52 •
Jewellery 56 • The Shoot 58
Penelope Chilvers and India Hicks are launching a collection of pink shoes. Absolutely meets them
Penelope Chilvers and India Hicks are a powerful duo. The two charismatic women seem as though they must have been friends for their entire lives – though they haven’t. But when they did gravitate together, they knew immediately that they had to collaborate. Penelope Chilvers’ successful shoe business and India Hicks’ multi-faceted design career are a winning combination. And they’ve just launched their second project together. After a successful autumn capsule last year designed for ‘tomboys and adventurers’, the design partnership continues with follow-up collection Pink Sands, whose mantra is “go anywhere, do anything”. Inspired by India’s life in the
Bahamas, it is a whimsical collection that transports us to sunny climes with its dreamy feminine pastels and sandy hues. India and Penelope have produced a capsule of three spring styles: The Devil’s Backbone Cowboy boot in powder pink, The Castaway Heeled Ankle boot in sand suede and the Shifting Sands ballet pump in butter soft leather.
As Patron of the Princes Trust, India is a key ambassador for Women Supporting Women, a passionate group committed to providing the right help to nurture, inspire and empower young women to build their own futures through employment, education, training or by starting their own business. In support of this Penelope and India are pledging £5 from all full-priced sales of this capsule collection to the cause.
Supporting women is a cause close to Chilvers’ heart. As a single mother of two girls, she was driven to start her own business when she found herself unemployable, returning to London from Barcelona in the recession-hit early 1990s. “I created my business around
my life, not the other way round,” she says. “I had some Spanish riding boots, they were handmade and all my girlfriends loved them, so I started like that. I’d go back to the artisan in Seville and put in orders for 10, 20, 30 pairs.” She still sells a similar long tassell boot (Kate Middleton has a pair).
For Hicks, supporting women is just as central to her philosophy. “I’ve had lots of di erent careers. Careers is a loose word. I was brought up to marry a duke. Why would I need to learn to type or do anything? So it came as a surprise to me that women actually could do anything. I went to such a terrible school that it actually closed down. The Princes Trust has a mentor programme and it’s so important for giving women the confidence to do things.”
For the collection, Hicks put together a moodboard featuing elements from the island in the Bahamas where she has lived for the past 27 years and brought up her five children. “It was pantone colours and shells. The island where I live actually has pink sand. I thought it was nice to have an elegant discreet high boot, then to have a pink cowboy boot – we couldn’t resist.”
Penelope Chilvers’ shoes are all about longevity. “We encourage customers to resole and repair – they get better and better with age. And it’s very unlikely that they’ll go out of fashion in a year,” she says.
Available at Roxtons Hungerford, penelopechilvers.com
“A mantra for the collection is go anywhere, do anything”PENELOPE CHILVERS PINK SANDS MOODBOARD
My inspiration to become a bespoke tailor came from accompanying my father to his shop in the City of London. The firm had been established in 1908 and my grandfather bought into it during the Second World War.
I was fascinated by all the suits hung up waiting to be fitted, watching the cloth being cut and then sewn together to make a garment. This is what designates a true bespoke suit, cut and made by hand, which other tailors, who claim to be bespoke, fall short from.
Upon leaving school I went to the London College of Fashion enrolling on a Bespoke Tailoring Course during which I secured work experience and later an apprenticeship with Wells of Savile Row learning to make coats. Five years later I left Wells to join my father's firm as an undercutter learning to cut patterns from a set of measurements, leading to learning how to fit customers in their garments.
With the pandemic and landlords being totally inflexible I had to take the sad decision to close the family firm. Not knowing anything other than tailoring I then decided to bring it to the home counties and set up Becker Bespoke at my home in Berkshire.
Since the pandemic there has been a large increase in separates, coats and trousers being in a less formal style as opposed to the traditional suit. Ladies wear has become more popular, especially with the opportunity of having a garment designed how it is wanted with additional details if required, in a fabric that may not be available on the High Street. My day starts at 8am and ends usually about 7pm depending on workload. On the days I am not travelling to appointments, I spend all day in my workshop at home cutting patterns, cutting garments out and sewing garments together for a first fitting.
All my bespoke garments are made to their finished stage in London's West End, ensuring Savile Row quality at far more reasonable prices.
I always try to make time one day a week to leave the workshop and get out into my garden or go walking in the Hambleden Valley. My passion for making beautiful garments will never cease, though probably in years to come it will be on a scaled down basis.
beckerbespoke.co.uk
Jonathan Becker, founder of Becker Bespoke, on following in the family trade and why he launched his own business
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By COURTNEY WEAVER-ENNIS
“Life can be hard and dogs help to blur and soften the edges”
Where do I start with what our dogs bring to our lives? They’re our best friends and loyal companions with their constant supply of love, comfort and funny quirks. Even after a tough day they seem to bring a smile to our faces.
Caring for a dog can benefit our mental health in so many ways. Dogs keep us active and help us to leave the house even when we feel it might be easier to stay indoors. The simple act of switching o and spending time outdoors with our companion works wonders for our emotional wellbeing. They can boost our confidence and dog walks are a wonderful way to meet new people who also love dogs. Dogs don’t judge, get bored of our jokes or tire of walks along the same route. For people of all ages, the love of a canine companion can influence their world in a positive way. It gives them a sense of responsibility, provides them with a best friend and a listening ear.
As head veterinary surgeon at the new state-of-the-art veterinary clinic, Vet’s Klinic in Reading, I am fortunate enough to meet wonderful dogs every day. It is lovely to see the bond between owners and their dogs and how they bring out the best in each other. Vet’s Klinic’s philosophy is driven by a passion to deliver gold standard care not only for pets, but also for pet owners by putting them at the heart of the practice.
When it comes to dogs, we simply cannot overstate how important they are. Our canine companions trigger similar neural pathways to the parent-baby bond. They
are more than a waggy tail, they’re an important member of the family. In the UK, approximately 34% of households have a dog. During the pandemic, many households experienced hard times and I am sure many of us who were lucky enough to be able to have a dog were given that extra emotional support to help us through the tough parts.
Somehow dogs seem to know when we need a pick-me-up and are feeling a bit low or when we’re struggling to cope with illness, bereavement, exam stress or loneliness. Life can be hard and dogs help to blur and soften the edges.
I genuinely think that humans and their canine companions have always made for a winning team. That’s why I am delighted to be part of the judging panel for Vet’s Kitchen’s Woof and Well Award 2023. It is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the amazing stories of dogs who have provided emotional support simply by being there and, this year, the award is particularly focused on how dogs benefit our mental wellbeing.
Vet’s Kitchen’s Woof and Well Award is looking for tales of everyday canine heroism from owners who want to thank their dog for helping them and their family feel better. To enter, all you have to do is share your story via the Vet’s Kitchen website. The closing date is 31 July 2023 and the winner will be announced in August. It’s a fantastic award scheme and the winning top three dogs will each receive a medal – Gold, Silver and Bronze – and a year’s supply of Vet’s Kitchen’s dry dog food.
Find out more at vetskitchen.co.uk
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The Gleneagles experience is oneof a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,680 for a 2 bed, £4,630 for a 3 bed and £5,080 for a 4 bed for 7 nights.
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Women tend to be more susceptible to iron deficiency. Dome’s Iron Assist vitamins contain 12mg of iron in a polyphenol-rich chocolate capsule, £21. domevitamins.com
Together Health’s Women’s Wholefood Multivitamin delivers a complete vitamin and mineral formulation in a one-a-day capsule. Contains 22 essential nutrients, £10.99. togetherhealth.co.uk
Wild Nutrition’s award-winning daily multi nutrient offers a fullspectrum of vitamins, minerals, and herbs, designed to support healthy hormone cycles, energy, and immune system, £33.50. wildnutrition.com
Like many busy working mums, I find it hard to build in any ‘me moments’ into my day. So the first time I log on to Clementine is a Monday morning, after a stressful nursery drop o (my toddler didn’t want to say goodbye), and before I face a mountain of emails in my inbox. The app’s cheerful interface instantly makes me smile. I choose the ‘My day, my way’ meditation, and immediately feel calmer as I spend a few minutes ‘hugging’ myself and gently tapping my forearms, breathing through the positive a rmations.
Founded by Kim Palmer, Clementine has an extensive menu of meditations to choose from – covering everything from sleep (‘I can sleep deeply at night’) to stress and anxiety (‘My f*cks are mine to give’). There’s also meditations for menopause, including ‘mind-skin rituals’ created in collaboration with No7. Sessions, and are led by a brilliant panel of four di erent therapists, including Hazel Gale, who is the app’s lead cognitive hypnotherapist. It isn’t long before I’m hooked, looking forward to having a moment to try a new meditation. And once you’re into it, there’s plenty more to explore. Clementine has
some great coaching courses, including ‘Become a more confident person’ and ‘Become more body confident’. There’s also free online workshops, including a ‘Collective hug event’, a session that includes face massage, tapping, a rmations and visualisation. The app’s thoughtful design makes it easy for me to build meditation time into my day. There’s a ‘walking’ section that I can listen to whilst my daughter naps in the pram, and the ability to set reminders.
And the more time I spend on Clementine, the more I realise how much better I feel for it.
clementineapp.com
CLICK STYLE
Discover the perfect pieces to elevate your home decor at Click Style. From captivating wall art to stylish furniture and a comprehensive range of gifts and accessories to suit all styles and personal preferences. Embrace your unique style and create a sanctuary that reflects your own family and personality. Read more on page 84.
DESIGN NEWS: THE LATEST LAUNCHES p76
WHAT CATH KIDSTON DID NEXT p80
INSIDE A STUNNING AMERSHAM HOME p86
THE ROYAL WINDSOR FLOWER SHOW RETURNS p94
HOUSEOF. X EMMA GURNER
Houseof has teamed up with interior designer Emma Gurner to create The Contrasting Colour Collection of table lamps, ceiling lights, floor lamps and wall lights.
Emma’s designs are notable for her playful use of colour and incorporating modern style with hints of nostalgia. Alongside houseof’s bold colour palette and retro shapes, the collaboration feels a natural fit. houseof.com
Invited to design for Gebrüder Thonet Vienna, India Mahdavi extended the Loop family, which already included a lounge chair and a banquette, with a newly designed dining chair and a lounge chair, called Mickey for its characteristic ears that recall those of a mouse. gebruderthonetvienna.com
DARTINGTON CRYSTAL
Little Treasures
Amethyst Optic Vase, £22 arrtington.co.uk
MARK TAYLOR DESIGN
Great lighting design is one of the most important elements in any interior. In addition to enhancing functionality, illumination can also transform mood, ambiance and the perception of space. Find out more about lighting design at marktaylordesign.co.uk/blog
BERGS POTTER
Willow vase, £73 nordicnest.com
CONRAN SHOP
Wide Block Sgraffi to Vase, £160 conranshop.co.uk
MODERN HISTORY
Nature vase, £20 modern-history.co.uk
FERM LIVING
Verso table vase, £95 fermliving.co.uk
DROOL ART
If you’re looking to jazz up your interior and support earlycareer artists, try Drool. With a selection of prints ranging from bold and contemporary, to muted and abstract, Drool offers artists exposure, allowing vibrant, quality giclée prints to be shipped worldwide. drool-art.com
HAY
The iconic Wall Clock is a result of a collaboration between HAY and designer Jasper Morrison. It embodies Morrison's talent for creating relevant and straightforward items that fit seamlessly into everyday surroundings. £105 twentytwentyone.com
There are many reasons to choose to have an indoor swimming pool, from the benefits of everyday exercise to swimming without restrictions. An indoor pool turns a 90-day outdoor pool swim season into a year-round pool party and guarantees perfect swimming conditions for 365 days a year. An indoor pool is an investment, one that can add value not only to your home, but to your health, social and family life too. They open up a whole new world of family fun, relaxation and exercise as well as becoming the new focal point of your home.
What do you want to get out of your indoor pool? What is the motivation behind this decision? What type of environment are you hoping to create? At Origin, they prioritise client-led construction, providing the best possible result and ensuring you get the pool and pool house you’ve been waiting for.
An Origin indoor pool allows you to control everything. You choose the temperature, the style, the lighting, the ambience and, of course, when and how you swim.
You can have all the mental and physical health benefits of swimming as well as the added luxury of year-round enjoyment, plus the privacy of swimming in your home or garden. The idea of an indoor pool presents an opportunity to create a unique interior space for play, exercise and entertainment – whatever you want it to be. The experts at Origin will help you design your dream space and create the right pool house for you and your needs.
If you’re concerned about missing out on those outdoor swims during the summer months, bifold or sliding doors are the perfect solution. They allow you to open up your pool house completely, letting you bring the outdoors in without the inconvenience and restrictions of an outdoor pool.
Having door openings is also a great way to capture the beauty of your garden. Whether you have beautiful, undulating views or just want to open up the space, bifold or sliding doors give you a unique backdrop to swim against.
When it comes to swimming pools, Origin does it all. Indoor pools are essentially bodies of water in a controlled, confined environment and, as such, have special requirements that must be met to ensure your pool house is not only aesthetically pleasing but functional too. At Origin, they eliminate the need to employ separate companies and manage the whole process for you. They’ve been building awardwinning indoor pools for over 40 years, and in that time have successfully completed plenty of pools and pool houses to a wide range of specifications. Origin’s experts collaborate with their clients on every project they manage.
With an indoor pool, the possibilities are endless. Wherever your imagination takes you, Origin will lead you there.
originpools.co.uk
If you’re a geranium person, you’ll understand what Cath Kidston means when she says that there’s ‘a sort of geranium cult’. These flowers with their distinctive fragrance inspire strong feelings, their scent transporting some people back to their childhoods instantly. If you’re in the cult, you’ll know that the past winter has been a particularly bad one for geraniums and many people lost prized plants to the frost. Not Kidston, though – because she has a greenhouse, and even though she claims not to be a good gardener and not to know when to prune hydrangeas, she is very good at geraniums.
So good in fact that she has set up a new business based on the flowers. Her new range of body care is made up of lotions and oils scented with geraniums from her greenhouse, and I’m meeting her at her pop-up shop in Bloomsbury’s Pentreath and Hall, where she is surrounded by a beautiful display of potted real geraniums and clever paper ones.
Of course it’s not the geraniums that make Cath Kidston a household name. It’s the chain of shops that she set up under her own name in 1993, almost inadvertently, which became a vast global enterprise, hugely profitable in Asia and immediately identifiable for its line in floral prints adorning everything from ironing board
covers to children’s pyjamas to wallpaper. It remains a vast business, but without her: she sold it, along with her name, in 2015. The new range of bath and body products is labelled C. Atherley, using her mother’s name, with no mention of Kidston.
In person, she’s not what you’d expect of a global businesswoman. In fact she’s probably the nicest person you’ll ever meet: smiling, kind, gentle and extremely modest. She tells me that her first shop in London was entirely different from the Cath Kidston stores that came later. Really it was a junk shop, selling random things that Kidston had made or found and repurposed. “I’d had a business before doing interiors and I sold curtain poles and fittings, then I had an idea. In the 80s a lot of people tried to have formal Victorian dining rooms and old fashioned chintzy tastes, but that era was changing and I thought, what do my friends want? They want a kitchen living room with a table that kids can play at, a family-friendly space, plastic oilcloth tablecloths that kids could make a mess on. I was going to car boot sales and buying old bits of painted furniture – just things that were fun for young people’s homes, mixing your
granny’s sideboard with an Ikea table. So it began as a junk shop really.”
The first product that really sold was a padded ironing board cover. “I had a tiny flat with the ironing board on the back of the door and I thought, why not have a nice cover?” So she made one and that became the first thing that really paid the rent. “Gradually it grew and I gave up the interior design to focus on the shop.”
Putting her name on the shop was at first just about drawing attention to her existing interiors business. “I just needed people to look me up in the phone book –but then it was too late to take the name away. I never expected it to grow.”
Now she can’t use my name for a business ever again. Is that weird? She’s philosophical about it. “I’m so used to it. I was very lucky with that business and I benefited from it so much. You don’t get anything for nothing. When I left I thought I’d just let it go, and keep my proud happy memories” She’s not the only person to give up her name in that way. “I saw the Laura Ashley family ahead of me – there’s a club of us. It’s not a bad club to be in if you see it in perspective really is it? By the end I was working in a very big company
with about 250 franchises in Asia. I’d never seen myself doing that.”
Severing her ties with the business she’d dedicated herself to for so long created a big life change – and at first she threw herself into decorating her house in Gloucestershire. “I loved seeing so much sky after having been in an office for so long.”
Soon she realised that she needed some sort of channel for her ideas. “All my references are to do with work so if see something exciting I’ll always think of some way of using it. But one day in India I saw the most beautiful design and it struck me that I had nothing to do with it.”
“ Now I’m probably back to where I was 30 or 40 years ago, looking at 18th century print archives”
Needing some way of being creative, she set up a small print studio. “It awakened in me a thought of how fun it was to be creative again. If you’re a designer it is really nice to evolve your ideas and now I’m probably back to where I was 30 or 40 years ago looking at 18th century archives and things. A lot of brands are interested in traditional stuff with a new twist now and I like brands that are really edited.”
While the Cath Kidston brand was very much associated with florals, Kidston herself isn’t someone whose house is filled
floral paintings, and a floral chintz seat in a chair but not full on floral. Much as I love print, I like things being quite simple. I love shapes rather than frilly things; I like plain bones to things.” She has a London house too, near the old Clarendon Cross shop, and she says: “it’s a traditional house but also quite modern – the kitchen is contemporary with pale wood floor and units, but also an old fireplace and Delft tiles. I love collecting pictures in auctions and car boot sales.”
Having her small creative team around her is a source of joy. “I’m 64 so I've seen a lot and I like being able to share that with my team, who are half my age and know all kinds of things I don’t.” The new range is made in partnership with Heathcote and Ivory, which is run by old friends of hers, and the geranium products are packaged with simple, bold designs and lovely illustrations by her younger colleagues.
with blousy prints. “I have always loved flowers – but not just in print, I love fresh flowers in the house. I love the odd flowery dress. My business started with a big rose print, then a gingham print with roses that I’d found in Czechoslovakia. But in my home there aren’t that many. I’ve got a four poster bed painted bright red and the backdrop is floral but the rest is plain. I have some
For Kidston, her own sense of style is at the core of all her projects. “It’s about atmosphere, I want somewhere that feels welcoming. Not the fashion of the moment. I like houses where people have lived for a long time. Slowly slowly. It might take ages.”
Find out more by visiting c-atherley.com
“Much as I love print, I like things to be quite simple”
Abbie Bell is the founder of a new business, Click Style Limited. They are a family run business living in the picturesque Berkshire countryside. Their backgrounds in senior international positions across several global blue chip companies have provided them with a multitude of skills and business acumen.
A few years back, the family had the romantic and crazy idea of renovating a derelict Edwardian property. With two very young children, a lively Doberman puppy and a few cats in tow, it was a journey to say the very least and romantic it was not! Their family motto at this time was, “it’s a little better, every single day”.
When the time came to focus on the hugely exciting part of room interiors, along came the pandemic. With bricks and mortar stores being closed, they really struggled to source quality and exciting products online and identified a gap within the ecommerce market.
They now partner with some amazing designers who travel the world searching for the next must haves in homeware, so you don’t have to. The products they supply enable their customers access to high quality, competitive and stunning interior goods.
Click Style supplies furniture, artwork, lighting, mirrors, candles, vases, planters, faux flowers, gifts and accessories, gift cards and much much more. They have a number of collections in their online shop, such as The Herringbone Gold, which creates a sophisticated feel to interiors; The Industrial Lighting Collection is heavily influenced by old fashioned designs, whilst also remaining current to interior trends; and named after a family member, The Layla Collection is a beautiful compilation of ceramics in a wide range of rich, bold and versatile tones across the colour palette spectrum. Many of their products are hand-made or hand-fi nished, creating unique pieces which stand them apart from others.
Exploring the story of Berkshire business, Click Style , who give you access to a wonderful array of products for the home
They use a network of fast and professional parcel delivery companies and deliver free to GB mainland addresses. They also deliver to Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Northern Ireland and Scottish Highlands & Islands. With the rise of people entertaining at home, they feel it’s more important than ever for their customers to be relaxed, comfortable and truly create their home to be as unique as they are. With just a click of a button, their customers can create their beautiful homes with confidence, boldness and as much style, colour or quirkiness as they want – it’s your space, your rules!
Sustainability matters to the experts at Click Style and they plant a tree for every single order made through their online shop. They are proud to say they have already funded the planting of 400 trees and their next goal is to hit 500 within the next few months.
Being sustainable isn’t just about products, it’s about the impact we have on the environment as a whole. Click Style takes action for our planet through supporting tree planting around the world.
Ecologi make it easy for businesses to take climate action by offering a variety of services like freely measuring your business’ carbon footprint, funding
responsible tree planting and supporting verified carbon avoidance projects. They are also transparent about the impact of their projects, so Click Style knows exactly where their money is going and how it’s making a difference – see their Public Impact Operations ledger to learn more.
Ethy is an independent organisation that assesses the environmental and social impact of companies, using a rigorous set of criteria. Getting verified by Ethy is no small feat, but Click Style are so proud to have achieved it on their three month anniversary since launch. By collaborating with Ecologi and Ethy, it demonstrates to Click Style’s customers that they are doing their best to be environmentally responsible in an effort to avoid greenwashing.
When launching Click Style they felt strongly about trying their best to do the right thing from the outset. They are a brand new business, or as they like to call themselves ‘an embryo business’, but they are already working towards future Sustainable Development Goals.
Discover more by visiting clickstyle.co.uk
With just a click of a button, customers can create beautiful homesGILBERT THE GOOSE, SILVER TABLE LAMP WITH GREY VELVET SHADE COASTAL BREEZE BOUQUET - THE FOREVER FLOWER BOUTIQUE COLLECTION OCTAVIA THE OCTOPUS, LARGE SILVER HURRICANE LANTERN LARGE DECORATED NICKEL SCULPTURE HANDMADE MONOCHROME TRIO ARTWORK, BLACK AND WHITE FEATHER
Absolutely heads to Amersham to step inside a four-bedroom property that opens doors to immaculate 21st century living
Dating back to 1927, ‘Two Gates’ – known simply due to the fact it has a gate to the front and the rear – has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years. The current owners spared no expense in renovating and extending the property to create a masterpiece that is as practical as it is breath-taking. Boasting expansive living spaces, top-of-the-line amenities, and spectacular views of the surrounding fields and woods, this is a home that truly has it all.
Nestled between the charming towns of Beaconsfield and Amersham, Two Gates enjoys an enviable location that offers the best of both worlds. With easy access to London via fast train links that take just 24 minutes to Marylebone, you can enjoy the tranquillity of village life without sacrificing the convenience of city living. Penn Street, where the property is based, itself is a quintessential English village with two cosy pubs, a village hall, two cricket clubs, and a vast expanse of beautiful countryside to explore, including Penn Woods, which at 435 acres is one of the largest woodlands in the Chilterns.
As you step into the hallway of Two Gates, you will be greeted by a stunning sight – a long hallway
that leads all the way to the back of the house, where a wall of glass offers uninterrupted views of the lush garden and beyond. The open-plan Devol kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring stateof-the-art Siemens appliances and a pantry that provides ample storage space. The adjoining entertainment area is perfect for hosting dinner parties and family gatherings, with a designated sitting area where you can snuggle up and watch your favourite movies.
The beauty of Two Gates extends beyond its interior, with glass sliding doors that create a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors. The immaculate garden is a true oasis, complete with a sunken seating area and a fire pit that offers the perfect spot for summer BBQs and evening cocktails. The ground floor also features a cosy library with a fireplace, a family snug, a study for those who work from home, and a cloakroom.
Upstairs, you will find a spacious landing and four beautifully appointed bedrooms. The principal bedroom is a true showstopper, with floor-toceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and a luxurious golden bathtub where you can soak away your cares while taking in the stunning views. There is also a sumptuous ensuite bathroom with twin basins and a shower.
With three additional bedrooms, one en-suite, and a family bathroom that could rival the best spa getaways, Two Gates offers ample space for a growing family or those who love to entertain. Absolutely wanted to find out more, so spoke to Charlie Monson, Associate Director of Fine & Country Beaconsfield, who are marketing the property. Turn over the page to read more...
Q Why are you excited to market this property?
A Two Gates is one of the most beautifully renovated homes of this size that has come to market for a long time. It is the perfect mix of country and luxury living. The owners have spared no expense with the finishes and appliances, so we are thrilled to be listing it.
Q What can you tell us about the village?
A Penn Street is a village located in the Chiltern Hills in Buckinghamshire. It is known for its charming and picturesque character, with many traditional English cottages and houses surrounded by beautiful countryside. One of the main landmarks of the village is the Holy Trinity Church, which dates to the 12th century.
Located next to Penn Wood, part of the Penn Estate, Penn Street is also home to several local amenities. The village is surrounded by a network of footpaths and bridleways, making it popular with walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The nearby Chiltern Open
Air Museum and Hughenden Manor are also popular tourist attractions in the area.
Q Could you summarise the property’s history?
A The property was originally built in 1927 and then was extended in the 1990s. Two years ago the current owners then embarked on a further extension to its current 2,552 square feet and the full interior renovation you see today. In the last couple of years there has been a full renovation and extension. The property has been beautifully updated throughout which has even included new windows.
Q What’s the first thing that catches your eye?
A As soon as you enter the hallway you are greeted with a view into the kitchen and garden because of the wall to ceiling sliding glass doors which run the full length of the rear of the house, providing that wow factor!
Q From a design point of view, what are the stand out elements at Two Gates?
A I would say the large open plan kitchen with sliding glass doors that lead onto the garden and sunken garden seating area with outdoor fridge and kitchen prep area, which provide seamless outside/inside living.
Q Are there any further surprises?
A In the principal bedroom there are not only two dressing rooms, but also a free-standing golden bathtub from Catchpole & Rye and a separate ensuite (shower).
Q Who would this property suit?
A This would be the perfect property for a couple or family who are looking for a rural village home, but at the same time a luxury lifestyle and easy connections into London.
Penn Street, Amersham, HP7 has a guide price of £2,250,000. For more information, contact Fine & Country Beaconsfield on 01494 623266
“It is the perfect mix of country and luxury living”
Words EVE HERBERT
Ligne Roset’s iconic Togo sofa was designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973, the year the brand launched. And now, 50 years on, it is still being produced in the factories in Briord, a small village in the Bugey region, in the foothills of the Jura mountains.
Born in 1925, French designer Michel Ducaroy was raised in a family of designers and makers of contemporary furniture who were commissioned by the Chaleyssin factory, which most notably supplied furniture for the liner SS Normandie. Michel Ducaroy cut his teeth in the family business before studying in the faculty of sculpture at the École Supérieure Nationale des Beaux Arts de Lyon. His 1960 meeting with Jean Roset (1920–1999) was to be pivotal. Founded by Antoine Roset in 1860 between Lyon and Geneva for the purpose of manufacturing parasol handles and walking sticks in turned beech, the Roset company first diversified into making chairs, and then furniture. In the postwar years, Jean Roset turned to the contract market, developing ranges of furniture for civil hospitals in Lyon, bedroom furniture for halls of residence and furniture for other civil buildings. It was at this time that Michel Ducaroy designed a range of furniture for young people (chambre DN) along with numerous chairs, settees and pieces of furniture for public facilities.
The creative explosion of the 1970s caused Jean Roset to refocus his company’s activities on the domestic market. Swift changes in social
“Its crumpled, newborn appearance and Shar-Pei wrinkles earned it more than a few doubtful looks”
attitudes and the advent of new materials (foams, quilting, thermoformed plastics) drove Jean Roset and Michel Ducaroy to develop new production techniques. After Adria, the first all-foam range of modular seating with very low seats, came numerous other models. But it was the Togo “seatcushion”, presented at the Salon des Arts Ménagers in Paris in 1973, which was to earn Michel Ducaroy his celebrity. Its crumpled, newborn appearance and Shar-Pei wrinkles earned it more than a few doubtful looks from professionals and public alike. The organisers of the fair, however, were sufficiently inspired to award Michel Ducaroy the RenéGabriel prize, which recognized “innovative and democratic furniture”. This new freedom enabled him to translate his vision all the way from “a tube of toothpaste folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends,” as he often described the sources of his inspiration for Togo. The hippie generation quickly seized on it as a place to curl up and enjoy their new idleness and aspirations to being different.
A bête de mode (“fashion behemoth”) for 50 years, acquiring no wrinkles along the way other than those in its fabric or leather covering, it has turned up in many hotels (The Jaffa Hotel in Tel Aviv, Les Sources de Cherveny in Cheverny, Mi Hotel Suites in Lyon, Hotel Alpina in Chamonix, Go Native Hyde Park in London, Standard Hotel in Hollywood throughout the existence of this hotel) and in the homes of the global style set. Togo went on to achieve sales of close to 1.5 million pieces in 72 countries. The cult piece of the 70s with its floor-level seat, emblematic of Ligne Roset's revolutionary modernity, Togo has become the brand’s star product and uncontested bestseller. For its 50th anniversary, it is dressed up in two
limited-edition coverings: Atom by Kvadrat and La Toile du Peintre by Pierre Frey.
Imagined by the Belgian fashion designer Raf Simons for Kvadrat, Atom is a vibrant and experimental bouclé fabric with no visible repeat, inspired by fragments of pointillist landscapes in expressionist paintings. With La Toile du Peintre by Pierre Frey, Togo is adorned with a contemporary tapestry with a large graphic pattern and vibrant colours that reinterprets a work by painter Heather Chontos.
“The hippie generation quickly seized on it as a place to curl up and enjoy their new idleness”
The Royal Windsor Flower Show is an eagerly awaited event for garden lovers. The Show Director, Alexandra Denman, takes us behind the scenes
The Royal Windsor Flower Show, the biggest annual event of the Royal Windsor Rose & Horticultural Society, returns on Saturday 10 June 2023. This one-day boutique event, set in the prestigious grounds of Windsor Great Park, is a thoroughly enjoyable celebration of gardening, nature and traditional crafts.
Alexandra Denman, a trained horticulturist, is the Show Director. She is highly regarded for her skill in curating horticultural content, overseeing the complexities of exhibiting. Here she tells Absolutely what we can expect from the 2023 Royal Windsor Flower Show.
Q When did you first develop a love for horticulture?
A It would have been at an age of 3 or 4 when I spent a lot of time digging holes and sowing seeds on our family’s allotment. My brother and I would hide in the wigwams made for the runner beans! My father was also the Show Manager of a small show in Cheshire where we lived, and I loved the fun of getting ready for competitions and the thrill of seeing if we had won anything.
Q How rewarding was your time at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show?
A Being part of the Chelsea Show Team was immensely rewarding. Each show took 15
months to prepare and deliver and no show was ever the same. I headed up a small team that delivered all the horticultural content for the show – some 500 exhibitors. From stands of Delphiniums to glasshouses and major international exhibits from Monaco that took four years to come to fruition, the scale and ambition of the exhibitors always took my breath away.
Q When did your association with the Royal Windsor Rose & Horticulture Society begin?
A It began about five years ago when I left the RHS to have my second child. I knew I couldn’t work on an international show with two children under two years, so I left and then happened to meet the Chairman Andrew Try, who inspired me to join the committee and start to move the show forward.
Q How wonderful a setting is Windsor Great Park?
A It’s an exceptional setting and perfect for our show as the views from the showground are of beautiful woods and farmland. We are incredibly lucky to now call this home, with thanks to the Crown Estate who are guardians of this wonderful landscape.
Q What can you tell us about the lineup for this year’s show?
A We have an exceptional line-up with lots of our friends coming to support us. Alan Titchmarsh, our Honorary President, will be opening the show, speaking on all matters
gardening and handing out the silverware to lucky winners. In our Talks Theatre we have Gold and Best in Show winners from Chelsea Flower Show 2022, Adam Hunt and Lulu Urquhart, on rewilding, and Dr David Hamilton on how kindness and nature can heal. The competition marquee, for both the adults and the children, is the real beating heart of the show, with everyone welcome to enter their prized lettuce, roses, Victoria sandwich or homemade kimchi!
Q Who is creating special garden showcases for the event?
A Alan Williams of Landform Consultants is designing and building ‘The King’s Garden’ as a celebration of the King's passion for biodiversity, community and gardening. Based on a maze, visitors can walk through and discover the elements the King is most passionate about with everything being recycled from the Chelsea Flower Show. The Lush Garden Co. will be creating a space that includes a dramatic flower encrusted crown hanging over a central space with Gaze Burvill furniture below from which to enjoy the space from. The Good Grief Trust charity is bringing a garden designed by Jamie Butterworth, which will provide a space to launch their new initiative to provide help to the bereaved.
Q Does the children’s area subtly show the joys of gardening to the younger generation?
A The children’s zone is bursting with ideas for young people with workshops from Little Muddy Boots running all day, the schools wheelbarrow competition providing lots of inspiration, and of course the Knight Frank competition marquee where every young person can enter their own gardening efforts.
Q Lastly Alexandra, can you give our readers some top tips about how to enjoy their gardens to the max this summer?
A We are often time poor so don’t heap pressure on yourselves to make everything perfect. Why not just spend 15 minutes an evening in the garden perhaps edging a lawn, sowing some seed, sweeping the patio or just sitting and enjoying the space. Choose plants for scent and colour and plant borders in good time so they out compete weeds and get established before any hot weather hits. Most of all enjoy it!
rwrhs.com/flower-show
"The competition marquee is the beating heart of the show"
When it comes to creating privacy in your garden, there are few options as e ective as screening trees and pleached trees. These tall, dense, trees provide a natural barrier that block out unwanted views and reduce noise, while also adding beauty and interest to your landscape. This type of screening is useful if your garden is overlooked by neighbouring properties or to retain lower-level exposure to an attractive wall or area. Screening trees can be designed to create a focal point, perhaps to make the most of a feature. Semi-mature trees can be planted to achieve effective screening from the offset, with evergreens being preferred for this purpose as they screen throughout the year. However, a planting scheme that includes deciduous trees can provide rich contrast and year-round seasonal interest.
Privacy in gardens can be created using trees to hide or screen out an undesirable view. Trees grown for this purpose often have a clear stem up to fence panel height (around 1.8-2m) with a full bushy canopy above, forming a good screen above the fence line. There is a wide selection of evergreen screening trees, including Holly, Photinia, Magnolia, Loquat, and Viburnum.
In addition to bushy screening trees, you may like to consider pleached trees. These are trees that have been trained and pruned to grow in a narrow, flat shape, with a clear stem and a dense canopy of foliage. Pleached trees are an excellent option for creating privacy in smaller gardens, as they take up less space than traditional screening trees. They’re also great for adding structure and interest to your garden. Pleached trees can include Magnolia, Holly, Photinia and Laurel.
TREE & HEDGE NURSERY
Practicality Brown is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of high-quality trees and hedges, and their nursery boasts over 800 carefully tended trees and 15,000m of Instant Hedging. They select the best quality specimen and semi mature trees and then carefully nurture these at their Tree Nursery in Iver, Buckinghamshire. This means that you will have the best trees for your garden project. Talk to their team today about your garden project.
Visit pracbrown.co.uk and
“Trees can be planted to achieve effective screening from the offset”
Taking inspiration from the colours and style of this beautiful North London property found just a short walk from Hampstead Heath, the client’s brief was to design a space that was a balance between a practical living and cooking space whilst creating a visually stunning design. The team in the Hampstead Poggenpohl Studio set about with the aim to create a kitchen that wasn’t something you see every day, but whilst doing so, had to ensure the design didn’t sacrifice functionality.
The materials used needed to be sympathetic to the existing house and features, whilst remaining within a specific colour palette – which was fairly unique. The idea of using muted greens and browns came in quite early in the project, as did the use of Poggenpohl’s Champagne Aluminium door front, which can be seen on the tall housings. This finish paired naturally with the Bronze Anthracite textured door which has been used in both a handle-less and handled capacity on the sink run and the island.
The different heights and depths of the cabinets throughout the space help to create interest around the kitchen, and the use of the double stacked furniture that is installed tight to the ceiling with the wall units beneath again bridges the gap between looking good and having a practical use and purpose.
The +Modo element of the island was a feature requested by the client from the very beginning and had to be included. Due to the layout of the kitchen, the island had to be in an L-shape to make the most of the space, which meant utilising the internal edge for the client’s breakfast bar. In order to keep the worktop as visually clear as possible, this breakfast bar is set to the bottom edge of the worksurface and inset within the worktops.
The material used is Poggenpohl’s Light Smoked Oak, which is mirrored on the pullout open trays and inside the +Stage pocket doors. In order to achieve a thicker effect on the breakfast bar, rather than just simply installing two panels on top of one another, there is a custom-made bronze panel inset between them, which is also used on the open shelves on the panelled wall, again
helping to tie the space together through the use of mirroring materials and design elements. The client’s brief for the worktops was to ensure that they were heat resistant allowing her to place items from the oven directly onto the worksurfaces, whilst also maintaining the colour palette and having to have a marble-like finish. The composite ‘Dekton’ in Taga was used as it hit every item on the client’s wishlist, it sits within the colour palette, allows for a practical kitchen whilst also looking stunning with all the characteristics of natural stone.
Overall, this kitchen is a triumph of practicality and design; both coming together seamlessly to create something new. A space that allows for comfortable family evenings cooking together, whilst also being a visually stunning part of the house – and perfect for entertaining too!
For more details on this design, or to find your nearest Poggenpohl Studio, visit poggenpohl.com or call 01727 738 100
The inside story of how Poggenpohl created this stunning kitchen
It’s our job to make sure that your property has the security to keep you and your family safe
For the second time, the Conran Shop has teamed up with Collagerie to launch an exclusive capsule collection for the home. The sophomore edit features bolder and more energetic colours and compositions across various products, including kitchenware, cushions, rugs, tote bags, and the new addition of lighting. The close work between The Conran Shop’s design team and Collagerie co-founders Lucinda Chambers and Serena Hood has brought each piece to life.
The collection’s ink-bled ‘sketch-a-check’ theme is inspired by vintage watercolour prints and slip trail pottery. Each capsule piece is unique due to natural and recycled materials, handcrafting, and hand-painting techniques. The trays are shaped by hand in Sweden from responsibly sourced birch veneer, the lampshades feature rolled edges and taping, which have been completed by hand, and the hanging mobiles are made in collaboration with the world-famous Volta, assembled in Spain from salvaged materials.
As Fashion Director of British Vogue for 25 years, Chambers has extensive experience directing some of fashion’s most memorable shoots. She has also worked as a creative consultant and stylist across high street and luxury brands, from Prada to H&M. Simultaneously, Hood, as former Executive Fashion Director of BritishVogue, has written countless style edits and created unforgettable events for the likes of British and US Vogue, Giorgio Armani and Marc Jacobs.
The Collagerie co-founders have a fresh perspective on their second collection with The Conran Shop, pushing their concept for the home to new heights. Chambers says: “Our ‘ink-bled’ linens and drip-glazed ceramics capture a fresh, laid-back mood that says summer has arrived, with sundrenched tones and artisanal techniques to give the pieces their unique spirit. To go from a single, splashy sketch to a beautifully cohesive collection is a dream come true. That’s the magic that happens when you collaborate with The Conran Shop.”
“A fresh, laidback mood that says summer has arrived”Words EVE HERBERT
Beautiful handmade kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture designed and created in Oxfordshire, covering neighbouring counties
Beautiful handmade kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and other bespoke furniture designed and created by craftsmen.
Italian textile company Lanerossi teamed up with designer Elena Salmistraro to launch a new collection of cushions and blankets during Milan Design Week. The new Campanule (Bluebells) designs reinterpret the form of these springtime flowers through a combination of geometric elements obtained by mixing soft, flowing lines with more rigid and at times angular shapes, making it unique and contemporary.
It is a decorative motif with a hypnotic visual effect of great impact, resembling the cone formed by the petals of the bluebell flower when it blossoms, along with stems that intertwine and mingle in a harmonious way. Saddle stitching in bright green enhances all the borders, in contrast with the hues selected for the blankets and cushions, from intense violet to pale pink.
The result is a collection of exceptional elegance, capable of bringing out the quality of the yarns, perfectly reflecting the designer’s approach in pursuit of the expressive language of objects, ready to fascinate the observer while prompting vivid emotions.
The collection is made in pure virgin wool with the Woolmark certification, taken from selected flocks of Merino sheep. The material offers excellent properties of thermal insulation, thermoregulation and absorption of humidity.
Lanerossi relies on its roots and its heritage, a precious legacy of creativity and in-depth knowledge of materials, able to generate new value through a virtuous dialogue with the present.
This collaboration extends a designer collection that already contains talents such as Paola Navone with Otto Studio, and Ludovica+Roberto Palomba. The designers have different ways of reinterpreting the DNA of Lanerossi, but with a shared objective: a dialogue with the contemporary world, appealing to multiple generations through products of the highest quality, with an accent on wellbeing and sustainability, conceived to enhance interiors by adding character to any space with their unique personality.
“It is a decorative motif with a hypnotic visual effect”
“Gather friends and keep your party going from day into night with this sociable and stylish set”
Transform the dining table to firepit in an instant - a great way to keep the party going and your guests warm. An optional griddle plate is available allowing you to cook for guests without leaving the table.
Full collection available at Daniel of Windsor, shop in-store & online: www.danielstores.co.uk
01753 801 000
Mauritius Corner Sofa with Square Firepit Table & 2 Benches
Home security is a critical issue in the UK, where burglary rates have been on the rise in recent years. Homeowners across the country are increasingly concerned about the safety of their property, and for good reason. A breakin can not only result in financial loss, but can also leave people feeling violated and unsafe.
There are various measures that homeowners can take to improve their home security, and many of them are relatively simple and inexpensive. One of the most basic measures is to ensure that all windows and doors are secured with sturdy locks. It is also important to ensure that all entry points are well-lit, which can deter potential burglars from attempting to gain entry to the property.
Another important aspect of home security in the UK is the installation of a burglar alarm system. These systems can provide an effective deterrent against burglars and can alert homeowners and
the police to any attempted break-ins. There are a wide variety of alarm systems available on the market, ranging from simple standalone units to sophisticated, fully-integrated systems that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone.
CCTV cameras are another popular option for homeowners looking to improve their home security. These cameras can provide an effective deterrent against potential burglars, as well as providing homeowners with the ability to monitor their property remotely. In addition to traditional wired CCTV systems, there are now a range of wireless systems available that are easy to install and can be controlled via a smartphone or tablet.
Smart home technology is also becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with many homeowners opting to install smart locks, motion sensors, and other connected devices to enhance their home security. These devices can be controlled remotely via a smartphone or
tablet, providing homeowners with greater flexibility and control over their home security systems.
As a professional security services provider, Lantec take pride in offering customers the latest and most advanced security solutions for their residential properties. They specialize in CCTV and intruder alarms, which are proven to be one of the most effective ways to deter potential intruders and monitor any suspicious activity around your home.
Lantec’s team of experienced technicians will be able to help you choose the right system for your needs and provide a full installation and maintenance service. Their systems can offer 24/7 monitoring, remote access, and alerts so that you can be confident that your home is protected at all times. They can also offer gate automation services to provide an added layer of security for your residential property. Their gate automation systems are designed to be easy to use and can be customized to meet your specific needs.
At all times, Lantec – who are SSAIB insurance approved – aim to provide outstanding customer service and offer competitive pricing to ensure that their security services are affordable for everyone. Contact them today to discuss your security needs further and arrange a free consultation.
0118 9440702
mail@lantecsecurity.co.uk
lantecsecurity.co.uk
WALLSAUCE
Wild Flowers Floral Wallpaper by Marina Stupakova, from £37 per m2 wallsauce.com
OHPOPSI Floral Riot Wallpaper in Citrus, £79 ohpopsi.com
POOKY
Double Insignia Wall Light with Archive By Sanderson Design Shades in Hyacinth Cosmo, £29 pooky.com
By PENDLE HARTE
WALTON & CO
Pastel Floral Runner, £2 waltonshop.co.uk
SOFAS & STUFF
Mulberry Floral Pompadour Spice Sofa, £6,288 sofasandstuff.com
MINDTHEGAP Woodstock Midsummer Floral Fabric, £139 per metre mindtheg.com
ANTHROPOLOGIE Ellen Merchant Tray, £32 anthropologie.com
BED THREADS
Buttery so , pre-washed, and designed to last, Bed Threads' pure 100% French Flax Linen Bedding Set in Limoncello makes the whole bed feel like the cool side of the pillow, from £220. bedthreads.com
SECRET LINEN STORE
Kitty McCall’s joyful and vibrant Summer Garden designs enhance this European 100% linen bedding. Pair with gorgeously green coordinating throws and cushion covers for bedtime perfection, from £199. secretlinenstore.com
This is the ultimate Hungarian goose down duvet. Sleep under a cloud all year round thanks to the clever four season approach: a 9 tog duvet and a 4.5 one can be used together or separately to ensure the right temperature at all times. Dreamy. From £250. scooms.com
THE WOOL ROOM
Wool is a fantastic material for bedding – and not just in winter. Year-round comfort comes from its naturally cooling properties – try a wool mattress topper or a wool duvet and you'll soon be converted. thewoolroom.com
Ellen Merchant's beautiful printed quilts are inspired by her love of antique textiles and botanical forms and fi nished with delicate, hand-stitched kantha, from £198. anthropologie.com
£20off! WhenSpending£200 usecode: 'absolutelyboutique '
Nice is much more than just a gateway to the Côte d'Azur. Since it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 for its beauty, history, architecture and natural spaces, the city has been enjoying something of a renaissance. Read about it on page 112.
Since being declared a Unesco World Heritage site, Nice is having a renaissance. Absolutely visits
Words PENDLE HARTE
You’ve been to Nice. But have you stayed there?
France’s fifth-largest city is often seen as a gateway to the Cote d’Azur. People fly in and head straight to Cannes or St Tropez without actually noticing that Nice is a fascinating and beautiful place in its own right. At least, they used to. This is changing now, partly since UNESCO declared the city a World Heritage site in 2021, and partly because of a resurgence of luxury places to stay, creating a new buzz around the city. But it’s always been glamorous. Just take a look at the architecture, which defines the city into two halves, the old town and the new town. The old town was originally Italian, and the city’s history shows hundreds of years of changing allegiances. Italian was traditionally the first language here, and the old town’s architecture shares more with the Ligurian tradition
than the French. The Italian border is less than 20 miles away, and present-day Nice owes much to its Italian heritage.
We’re staying at the newly renovated Anantara Plaza Hotel – formerly the Plaza and before that the Hotel de France. It opened in 1848 to entertain Europe’s travelling aristocrats and was renamed the Plaza at some point in its thriving career. Fate led to it being abandoned in the 21st century before being entirely gutted and modernised by the Thai hotel group. Centrally located and a stone’s throw from the Promenade des Anglais and the sparkling Mediterranean, it’s a fabulous spot.
Our room has a sea view and large balcony from which to enjoy it – and you can admire the sea from the impressive rooftop restaurant too. It’s run by Portuguese celebrity chef Olivier da Costa and attracts non-residents from all over the region for showstopping fusion food that’s heavy on lobster, tru es and sushi, all served with dry ice, woodsmoke and other theatricalities. The bar o ers cocktails themed on a world tour with concoctions for every region, including a bourbon-based Socca Sour inspired by a Nicoise chickpea delicacy.
The hotel is embarking on a busy first season and prides itself on details: every room is equipped with a realistic-looking signature edible pebble, for instance, which
“The Italian border is less than 20 miles away, and present-day Nice owes much to its Italian heritage”NICE BEACH AND PROMENADE DES ANGLAIS PRIVATE TERRACE, ANANTARA PLAZA
nobody would consider biting into unwarned. It also claims to be the only hotel in the world to o er separate monsieur and madame shower gels. Make of that what you will.
The Nicoise are proud of their food culture, and the city’s Italian influence gives rise to a street food culture that’s unknown elsewhere in France. Eating on the street, outside of regular mealtimes, is not part of French culture, and remains unacceptable in most places other than Nice. Here, the Italian tradition allows – encourages, even – eating in the street and Nice’s busy market o ers a host of local snacks to enjoy. There’s Socca, for instance, a chickpea flatbread eaten freshly scraped from the
hotplate – it’s delicious – along with the inevitable pissaladière, an oniony, anchovy tart eaten in small slices at seemingly every opportunity. Another local speciality is tourte de blettes, a sweet cake made –improbably – with Swiss chard and pine nuts, sweetened with raisins. We tour the market sampling everything and admiring the vast selection of flowers and healthylooking produce, all of it plumper and shinier than our British vegetables. Our lovely local guide, Sylvie, points out Henri Matisse’s former home overlooking the market square, and takes us to an ice cream shop where unlikely flavours include olive, jasmine and beer (also: tourte de blettes).
Nice claims more than 300 sunny days a year, with very little rainfall and mild winters, so it’s a lovely place to visit any time. The Promenade des Anglais is a wide beachfront strip, blessed with a long cycle path and lots of easy-to-hire Velo Bleu, so it’s easy to pedal o for an afternoon before returning to a relaxing treatment at the Anantara Plaza spa. At sunset it’s time for a drink on the rooftop terrace: don’t miss the Piscine – swimming pool – which is a vast balloon glass filled with ice cubes and Provencal rose. That’s life in Nice.
Rates start from €350 (£308) for a deluxe city view room including breakfast for two people; anantara.com
“The city's Italian influence gives rise to a street food culture that’s unknown elsewhere in France”ROOFTOP BAR, ANANTARA PLAZA
Wellies and Windbreaks
offer the finest collection of holiday homes in the West Sussex coastal villages just south of Chichester. West Wittering is the most well known, famous for its blue flag beach with powder soft sand and the rolling dunes of East Head. The coastal villages of East Wittering, Bracklehsam Bay and Selsey, plus the Chichester Harbour villages of Itchenor and Bosham are equally as popular.
For more information visit our website: www.welliesandwindbreaks.co.uk
Following the virtual shutdown of leisure travel in 2020, the owners of Livingstone’s Travel World, a small team of director shareholder travel enthusiasts, led by a vastly experienced travel industry executive, decided to create a division totally dedicated to growing the field of food and drink tourism and culinary engagement. Here are two examples of what they o er.
A gourmet journey of delights through the unique flavours of the ‘Spice Island’. On this amazing 13 day gastronomic expedition you will discover the unique cuisine of Sri Lanka, from the amazing seafood delicacies the ocean and lagoons have to o er, to the misty highlands known world over as the producer of Ceylon Tea. You will visit the remote rural villages where most of the island's rice and vegetables are cultivated and to the old colonial cities of Galle and Colombo, which showcase the diversity and heritage of the culinary
specialities that make the Island so unique.
There is far more to this outstanding tour than merely savouring the delicious cuisine. Led by expert guides, many of them chefs, you get fully immersed in the production of the ingredients and the preparation of many traditional dishes and delicacies. Each day you will learn about the techniques for cultivating and using everything from fish, (particularly crabs), to vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices (particularly cinnamon) to produce many unique local dishes.
Once known as Ceylon, you will also get an insight into the island’s incredible heritage by visiting its historical monuments and participating in and enjoying its culture. Along the way, you will have time to marvel at some of its unbelievable scenery.
This culinary tour o ers a once in a lifetime experience, not just for those with a passion for gastronomy, but will appeal to everyone with an interest in discovering di erent ways of life. Through their a liated travel company they can provide highlights and discovery tours, wildlife tours, golfing holidays, honeymoons, villa rentals, and bespoke holidays for discerning travellers.
Amaya Hills – Kandy
A majestic palace, set in the hills overlooking the historical city of Kandy, is considered to be one of the finest hotels in the area. Its 104 luxurious beautifully decorated rooms and suites have sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and perfectly manicured gardens with opulent flora all year round. Facilities include an expansive swimming pool, a well-appointed gym, and a squash court.
One of the oldest hotels east of the Suez, this iconic landmark is situated in the heart of Colombo, along the seafront and facing the famous Galle Face Green, and is a fusion of historic charm and modern convenience. The warmly decorated rooms have free Wi-Fi and minibars, along with flat-screens and safes. Suites add sitting areas and upgraded suites o er access to the Long Room lounge serving hot snacks.
Tuscany, famous for its rolling countryside, historic towns and villages, world class cuisine, outstanding wine estates, and fabulous artistic heritage is at the heart of this 7 day gastronomic experience. You’ll visit many of the region’s notable historic towns, explore famous places and sample some of the finest food and drink Tuscany has to o er.
During this special culinary journey, you also get the chance to soak up the history and culture of what is often recognised as the birthplace of Renaissance art. Based
in Florence, home to some of the world’s most recognisable Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s “David” statue, Botticelli’s works in the U zi Gallery and the Duomo Basilica, this superb tour includes excursions to Sienna, famous for the ‘Il Palio’ horse race, Pisa with its unique leaning tower, the breathtaking landscapes of Montepulciano so often used in International films, and the enchanting town of Lucca.
You will also have ample opportunity to fully appreciate the cuisine of the region such as the famous Florentine T-bone steak, with local chefs producing mouth-watering dishes using the best fresh ingredients. Amongst the many gastronomic delights are visits to famed Chianti vineyards, a chance to try tru e hunting, sampling olive oil straight from the farm and a hands-on demonstration of how Pecorino cheese is produced. Through their a liate travel company they can arrange luxury city breaks, beach holidays, discovery tours, weddings and honeymoons, villa rentals, golf breaks, and bespoke holidays for discerning travellers to truly have a holiday to remember.
This luxurious four-star property is set in a prime location in the centre of Florence close to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and a short walk to the medieval Ponte Vecchio bridge. The elegant air conditioned rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Upgraded rooms add 4-poster beds, city views and/or frescoes on the walls and ceilings.
Hotel
Situated right in the very heart of the historical centre of Florence, this luxury hotel located in a stunning 18th century building o ers surroundings not unlike the many palatial homes of the Florentine nobles of days gone by. This fabulous four-star hotel o ers the highest quality of service, stunning interior design and a perfect location. Some rooms feature wood floors and/or basilica views.
Discover more at gastronomy-world.com
St George’s is one of the oldest schools in the United Kingdom, dating back to 1348 when the College of St George was founded by King Edward III. The pupils of today are also doing their part to add to this illustrious history, with 11 of the school’s Choristers involved in the King’s Coronation Concert, with some of them pictured here backstage with Katy Perry. stgwindsor.org
What
By MATTHEW GODFREYIam usually the last person to show any special interest in the lifestyle choices of celebrities. But I was intrigued to read recently that global superstar and singer-songwriter Adele has revealed that she plans to study for a degree. “I really want to get a degree in English literature,” Adele said. She added that she did not intend to go to university, saying: “I’ll do it online.”
As an English teacher myself, I was struck by some of her other remarks, too: “If I hadn’t made it in my singing, I think I would definitely be a teacher. I think I’d be an English lit teacher,” she said. My thoughts were: do it, Adele! Become an English teacher. You might even inspire more teenagers to continue with the subject and help to stop an unfortunate trend, because English literature has fallen out of the top ten most popular A-levels for the first time this year. In fact, the subject has seen a drop of almost 10% in the number of entries in this academic year alone.
The trend is a ecting universities, too. Degrees in English literature are less popular than they were. Worryingly, one university –She eld Hallam – recently announced that it has suspended its English literature course because less than 60% of graduates from the degree programme entered ‘high-skilled’ jobs. One of the factors driving She eld Hallam’s decision is that the Government
subjects do parents and pupils value most – and which are increasingly undervalued?
recently revealed it would be issuing fines to universities that do not get 60% of graduates into a professional job within six months. Clearly, a good degree in English literature is not perceived by many as a safe ticket to a secure, professional job.
Across the UK, there also seems to have been a veer away from some of the humanities and creative subjects, which are increasingly losing out to more popular STEM subjects. Maths is the most popular A-level choice today. Psychology comes a close second, with an 11.6% increase in the number of pupils choosing it this year. Biology comes third (up 3.9%) and chemistry is in fourth place. History is currently the fifth most popular subject, but academics are predicting that it will lose out to sociology next year, as its popularity is increasing (it is not a subject we currently o er at Downe House). Other subjects that are currently experiencing a surge in popularity are politics, economics, business studies and computing.
To put this into context, it is worth noting that English literature was the most popular A-level choice amongst British school children between 1992 and 2014. However, in 2022, only 32,910 students chose it as one of their A-levels. By comparison, mathematics was chosen by 89,605, with an additional 14,520 pupils choosing further mathematics. Modern languages are su ering, too. This year, a mere 5,385 students chose to study a modern language at A-level. Within this number, French is increasingly losing out to Spanish. There are probably two main explanations for the decline in English literature’s popularity – and the same may
apply to the other subjects which are in decline. One possibility is that the GCSE course is not inspiring enough. English literature and language are compulsory at GCSE and if a pupil has a bad experience with it, they are likely to quit as soon as they have the opportunity. There is a concern amongst many English teachers that the curriculum has become too prescriptive, too undemanding, too narrow, and too stymied by political and social sensitivities. A second possible reason is that parents and pupils no longer see the skills that are developed by studying literature as useful for future life. There is a perception that you are more likely to be employable if you study A-levels that will increase your practical ‘skill set’ in areas such as numeracy and coding. I believe very strongly that such notions are misguided. Of course, we will always need STEM specialists. But, contrary to the received wisdom of current trends, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computerisation are predicted to make mathematical and technical skills less critical to many roles in the future – especially accountancy, architecture, engineering, and computing. It is for these reasons that I believe a resurgence of the humanities is more likely in the coming years. Particularly as the core skills involved in these subjects, not least independence of thought, communication and imagination, are
becoming more and more sought after in modern society. So, what can those of us who believe in humanities subjects do to reverse the current decline? I think music icon Adele may have one of the answers. Adele stated very clearly that it was her former English teacher at Chestnut Grove School in Balham, south west London, who inspired her to take the subject on to degree level. “Ms McDonald got me really into English literature,” she said. “Like, I’ve always been obsessed with English and obviously now I write lyrics. She really made us care and we knew that she cared about us.”
In short, every teacher out there should try to follow Ms McDonald’s example and teach in a way that inspires students to continue with their subject beyond GCSEs.
“Every teacher out there should teach in a way that inspires students”
Q Can you give us a potted history of Leighton Park?
A Leighton Park was founded in 1890 by prominent Quaker families. This included George Cadbury, so chocolate is close to our hearts, with our Year 7s enjoying the Chocolate Bar Challenge where they design, mould, prepare, market – and of course eat – their own chocolate bars.
Q How long have you been headmaster and what originally attracted you to working at Leighton Park?
A I am in my fifth year at Leighton Park. I first got to know about the school as an ISI inspector, carrying out a routine inspection. I was really struck by the
distinctive values and sense of purpose at the school and knew that this was something I wanted to be part of.
Q How do Quaker values underpin what happens at the school?
A Over the last four years we have been really focused on trying to give the school's Quaker values currency and purpose. There have been three main avenues for this. Excellence in Pupil Personal Development to develop a confident sense of self, underpinned by resilience, perseverance and self-reflection. We won the national Independent Schools Association award for Excellence in Pupil Personal Development in 2022.
Developing a values-led education to foster a sense of responsibility, a commitment to helping others and a determination to make a di erence. We won the ISA Award for Outstanding Local Community Involvement in both 2021 and 2020. A vibrant and inclusive learning environment to nurture a community of kindness, valuing the potential of each individual and seeking to understand and celebrate di erence. We have been shortlisted for Independent Senior School of the Year in the TES Schools Awards this year.
Q Can you describe a typical classroom?
A Our average class size is 16. While we do have lots of classrooms, we also have lots of specialist facilities like our design studio, vast DT workshop, digital media studio, two drama studios, a recording studio, eight specialist art studios and a dance studio. I'm really excited about the Sixth Form Study Centre we are developing at the moment,
“I was struck by the distinctive values and sense of purpose at the school”MATTHEW JUDD
which will have a lecture theatre and lots of inspiring group and quiet study spaces.
Q How do you help support a student’s development throughout their time at the school?
A As indicated by our award for excellence in pupil personal development, we're holistic in our approach. At Leighton Park outstanding academic progress is the consequence of our approach rather than the object. Our focus is on all our students achieving excellent progress for them, what is commonly called value add. By this measure, we're the best performing school in Berkshire and 14th among boarding schools in England. Our starting point is to support students to really think about who they are and what they want, to help them develop a sense of purpose and strong sense of self. We then do everything we can to support them to achieve their goals.
Q How key is the co-curricular?
A The co-curricular programme is a key part of our pupil personal development curriculum. We o er over 90 choices, roughly split in thirds between sports and physical activity; music, drama and dance and then academic extension. Pretty much everything taught in the classroom is reinforced through the co-curricular programme, so maths team for Maths, coding club for Computer Science, model United Nations for Politics, and design and build club for DT and Engineering. Balance is key and we have adapted the CAS philosophy from the International Baccalaureate so all students should be doing something creative, something active and something service orientated.
Q What kind of boarding environment do you o er?
A We have a junior boarding house for our Year 7s and 8s, where they have beautiful facilities built in 2021 and specialist nurturing care. Our senior boarders are split between a girls’ boarding house and a boys’ boarding house, but the boarders still do lots of activities together. Each boarding house has five teachers
that live with the students, providing a really supportive environment.
Q When pupils leave you, what are they prepared for?
A This is a really key question and why pupil personal development is at the core of what we do. By supporting our students to develop every aspect of themselves we believe we nurture students of real character and confidence, with a determined desire to change the world for the better.
Q You have had plenty of recent success with inspections and awards. What does this mean to you?
A We are obviously delighted to be recognised for the e orts of our dedicated sta , the successes of our students and for the achievements of our school community. Everything we do is driven by the desire to deliver the best possible outcome for our students combining achievement with values, character and community. We aren’t doing it to win awards, but external validation of our approach by highly respected educationalists and impartial organisations is a great cause for celebration for us. It’s also reassuring for families considering Leighton Park for their child’s education and we are so popular now that we have had to extend our licence to increase the school roll. We have always had something special to o er; what is pleasing to us now is that it is increasingly apparent to others as well.
leightonpark.com
“Students should be doing something creative, active and service orientated”
T:
E:berryfields.nursery @childbase.com
iven the school’s location, at the foot of Windsor Castle, and its long-standing tradition of educating the Choristers of St George’s Chapel, who have been involved in many royal occasions, not least singing in the Coronation Choir during both the 1937 and 1953 Coronations, it would seem a fair assumption that St George’s School Windsor Castle might pull out all the stops for this year’s historic royal event. It certainly didn’t disappoint!
In the build up, the school was a hive of activity, with a hotly contested house biscuit decorating competition and colourful arts and crafts taking place throughout the school ranging
Gfrom portraits and new stamp designs, to golden carriages, crowns and more. The students used their inquiry skills to research and present facts about the royal occasion and Reception children enjoyed role playing quintessentially British tea parties. Several of the students even had the opportunity to showcase their creations on a global children’s news programme, when the school welcomed an ITN Production crew into classrooms to film the ongoing preparations for a bulletin broadcast on Discovery Education’s Espresso News channel to over 3,000 schools worldwide.
In recognition of King Charles' love of the environment, the school’s o cial Coronation celebration on Friday 5 May followed the theme of environmental stewardship, already a focus of the school as one
of the five Round Square ‘IDEALS’ embedded into the school’s curriculum framework. Students raised awareness by adding a pop of green to their uniform and took part in a series of activities ranging from outdoor nature mandalas and scavenger hunts, the planting of two Coronation roses and the most challenging, switching o electricity for the day, resulting in a much celebrated BBQ lunch. The day culminated in a fantastic fete on the school’s playing fields in Home Park Private, run exclusively by the students in Years 7 and 8, and a bake sale organised by the school’s Eco Club to raise money for Toilet Twinning. Over 50 pieces of the children’s artwork were then used to decorate the artists’ area backstage at the o cial Coronation Concert. And finally, 11 lucky Choristers rounded o the celebrations by singing at the event, broadcast to an audience of millions live from Windsor Castle on Sunday evening. Appearing as part of Take That’s finale set, the children sang the choral introduction to the former number one hit, Never Forgetsomething they surely never will!
stgwindsor.org
“The children sang the choral introduction to Take That's number one hit, Never Forget”
Up and coming young actress Charlotte Gairdner-Mihell, pupil of LVS Ascot, has won a Sir Anthony Seldon Arts Award to begin her studies at the highly prestigious Wellington College, renowned for nurturing gifted children to help them reach their full potential and known for their Artsmark Platinum Award Winning Provision and industry standard facilities.
A pupil of LVS Ascot since Reception, aged four, Charlotte is set to leave her school of the past eight years to further develop her academic and acting career, which has already seen her shine in a lead role in the hit Sky Atlantic/HBO television series, The Third Day, starring alongside A-list actors Jude Law, Naomie Harris, Katherine Waterston and Nico Parker – her on screen sister.
Charlotte’s dad, Nigel Mihell, says: “Charlotte has been really lucky. LVS Ascot has been such a great and supportive school. The school’s principal, Christine Cunni e, has been amazing throughout the whole process, really encouraging Charlotte to seize this opportunity.
Wellington College is such a phenomenal place and the fact that both schools have had a respectful relationship with each other through the process has been wonderful.”
Charlotte admitted that leaving LVS Ascot will be an emotional time as she says goodbye to friends and teachers to begin at Wellington College this September, for the start of Year 9.
“I’ll really miss my friends and it will take some getting used to, as I’ve only ever known being at LVS Ascot, but I’m very excited about starting at Wellington College, especially as I will get to perform in its GWA Performing Arts Centre.”
Charlotte will have access to a number of di erent LAMDA teachers (the awarding body for speech and drama), a number of whom specialise in TV and film acting and who are well-equipped to support her with all the future auditions for television dramas and more.
In addition to having a leading role as Jude Law and Naomie Harris’ daughter Tallulah in The Third Day, Charlotte has since auditioned for famous American film directors, including Steven Soderbergh. She was also in the running for a role in a forthcoming addition to
the Star Wars series on Disney+, until she was thwarted by Covid-related travel restrictions, but Charlotte is undaunted by the set-backs. Supported by her agent, The BWH Agency, she remains fully focused on her ambitions to have a successful career as an actor.
Charlotte adds: “I’m really looking forward to my next part and my move to Wellington College, and I couldn’t be more grateful to LVS Ascot, which has been so supportive over the years, allowing me time o for The Third Day and other filming, as well as to take part in auditions. Acting has always been my dream and I’ve been lucky to get signed to the amazing BWH agency.”
LVS Ascot principal, Christine Cunni e, says: “Charlotte is a popular pupil and will be sadly missed by her teachers and friends, but we couldn’t be more pleased to see her achieve Wellington College’s Sir Anthony Seldon Award. Charlotte has proven herself to have terrific talent and we couldn’t be more proud. We wish her every success for the future.”
lvs.ascot.sch.uk
“I am excited about starting at Wellington College and acting in its GWA Performing Arts Centre”CHARLOTTE GAIRDNER-MIHELL LVS ASCOT
New research shows that the Berkshire outdoor spot trumps all others when it comes to family-friendly fun
Whether visiting museums or exploring the great outdoors, the UK has plenty to o er without breaking the bank.
Outdoor experts at GO Outdoors have taken a closer look at the top destinations with the best free family activities – and Windsor Great Park tops the list by a landslide as the most popular destination, with a whopping 5.4 million visitors in 2021. Perfect for families, the stunning outdoor location conceals ancient forests, rare wildlife and magnificent historical monuments making it a wonderful cheap day out for the whole family to enjoy. Considering the second placed Science Museum racked up less than 1m visitors shows just how popular this Berkshire favourite is.
Part of the Windsor Estate, Windsor Great Park is an ancient Royal landscape of forests, grasslands, lakes and gardens. Visit and you will discover 1,000 years of history including historical monuments, rare wildlife and national collections of plants and champion trees.
An operational Estate with farms, vineyard, commercial forestry as well as residential and commercial lettings, the Windsor Estate covers approximately 6,400 hectares (15,800 acres) stretching for some 10 miles from Windsor Castle to Camberley and is home to a thriving business community.
Swinley Forest, also part of The Windsor Estate, is a 15-20 minute drive from Windsor Great Park and is a separate visitor destination managed by Bracknell Forest Council.
The Forest covers more than 1,214 hectares (3,000 acres) and includes a
genuine Iron Age Fort, The Lookout Discovery Centre, Go Ape and 24km of cycling trails, which are looked after by Swinley Bike Hub.
There’s plenty on o er over the summer months to keep adding to these visitor numbers. Earlier in this issue we covered the Royal Windsor Flower Show, and there will be special events to mark the start of Royal Ascot. Nature Tots sees the Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre host adventurous outdoor play, crafts and stories for pre-school aged children, and Teen Rangers o ers seasonal wildlife themed activities for young people to explore and engage in the great outdoors. Great doesn’t even cover it…
windsorgreatpark.co.uk
why everyone is talking about…THE COPPER HORSE THE LONG WALK AN AUTUMNAL SCENE IN WINDSOR GREAT PARK COW POND PHOTO BY ANDREW SOLES
