Absolutely Berkshire March 2022 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

BERKSHIRE

Berkshire MARCH 2022

PLU S BUBBLE FUN Why Paeonia in Windsor is a trendsetter •

ON TRACK

Exploring the dining evolution at Newbury Racecourse

SPECIAL

MARCH 2022

Over 40 pages of inspiration and insight

Jump into

ABSOLUTELY-BUCKINGHAMSHIRE.CO.UK

SPRING

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MARK THE CHANGING OF THE SEASONS WITH MARC CAIN AT ANDREW GARDNER IN WENDOVER

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Prices from £450,000 Rental from £2,429 pcm

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Some furniture is made for the here and now. Some is built to stand the test of time. At Neptune, we believe that the best can do both. Good design never grows old. Neptune Reading, 0118 932 6060 Neptune Chesham, 01494 398472 neptune.com

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents MARCH 2022

80 16

C U LT U R E AGENDA

The best events across the county this month

FA S H I O N & B E A U T Y 48 SCAMP & DUDE

A brand inspired by a life-changing event

20 RICHARD TYLER

50 THE SHOOT

27 AIMEE VIVIAN

58 JENNIFER IRVINE

The inspiring story we all need to read

Marc Cain helps us into spring

Why she has always been ga-ga for radio

An interview with Pure Package's founder

FOOD & DRINK 38 PAEONIA

40 TASTE NEWBURY

80 GRAYSON PERRY

42 RECIPES

101 TREND

Join the bubble tea revolution in Windsor

Exploring the racecourse's dining options

How to eat like a Peaky Blinder

A B S O L U T E LY H O M E KEEEPS

A B S O L U T E LYB U C K I N G H A M S H I R E .C O. U K The online guide to inspirational local living.

Finding pottery passion in Marlow

The home that a creative mind built

The latest ideas for your kitchen

O N T H E C OV E R The SS22 collection from Marc Cain, found at Andrew Gardner in Wendover (andrewgardner.co.uk)

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Call Just Shutters today on

0118 9070 102

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS MAGAZINE MANAGER ABIGAIL GARDNER MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS, KATIE WOOD ANABELA KOLECI, LOUISE PEARSON FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

r e tt Shu en v a e H

Enhance the style of your home

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S March issue highlights

am sure the vast majority of people reading this has been touched by the big C – and I don't mean Covid. While that has dominated our lives for the last two years, cancer is something that I have been aware of for most of my 42 years. My experiences have been both uplifting and utterly devastating. I lost my aunt to breast cancer when I was very young, so don't remember a great deal about her, although I often feel cheated when I hear about what a wonderful person she was, something I never got to experience. There was also a friend at work who was diagnosed when we were both in our mid-20s. I thought no chance it will beat him, he's young – but I found out cancer doesn't work that way. I have also had a close member of my immediate family who has beaten it and leads a life to the full now. I am in awe of everyone who goes through such a life experience, but who continue to smile and try to make the lives of others better. It's why I am delighted to have the story of Richard Tyler taking centre stage this month from page 20. It's only been a few months since he was diagnosed with cancer, but his response has been astonishing, setting up a foundation to help others despite going through treatment himself. We need more Richard Tylers in this world, so read his story and, please, if you can, do get involved to help his amazing cause.

R ichard Tyler

An inspiring story from Buckinghamshire

4 Interiors Trend Don't monkey around with metallics in the home

Mark Kebble

Keeeps

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Inside a unique pottery haven in Marlow

Light Show

Bright ideas for your home

Fitness Notes

Why gyms are coming back strong in 2022

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

CLUB TROPICANA niLuu is a PETA-approved vegan silk and cruelty-free loungewear brand. This silk Monroe kimono is sustainably made using washable vegan silk. Its classic fit features a wrap front silhouette with a matching detachable sash, and voluminous wide sleeves. £774 wolfandbadger.com

F I T A N D R E A DY Once you try a set of G-Mynx signature leggings and bra top, you will be in love. They come in four different colourways, including this khaki option. @gmynx

TO P C R O C Bovenue's uber luxe collection of leather bags includes the Noura in Royal Green in smooth Vernis calf leather. £777 bovenue.com

NAIL IT Revlon's new Ultra HD Snap! is not only vegan, but it's also super quick to dry. A caring and strengthening complex leaves nails feeling strong, smooth and protected. Available in 12 shades, £7.99 revlon.com

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

F LY I N G H I G H Debra Franses' unique handbag sculpture, crafted in resin. This classic design confines the beauty of the butterﬂy, frozen in time in eternal ﬂight. £3,950 artbagstudio.com

MOCHI MOCHI Yuzefi's Large Mochi bag in soft leather is large enough to work as an overnight bag, yet stylish enough for a handbag too. £520 yuzefi.com

O N E TO WAT C H This men's watch has a matte green dial with rounded markers, Arabic quarters and gilt hands coated with Swiss Super-LumiNova. £1,500 berrysjewellers.co.uk

GREEN FINGERS Bergs Potter make highquality terracotta pots that plants love. Highquality materials and craftsmanship give these pots lasting appeal. bergspotter.com

LIGHT T H E WAY This clever glass piece from Danish brand Hubsch is a tealight holder or a vase, depending on which way up it is. £59 harveynichols.com

EDITOR’S PICK

COM F O RT ZO N E Odette Lingerie stock beautiful brands from around the world, which have been expertly selected for their quality, style, fit and comfort. Moulded bra A-E cup, £85, brief, £35 odettelingerie.co.uk

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HORLICKS FACTORY LIVE IN A MODERN ICON

JUST RELEASED

1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments in the Horlicks Factory Register your interest

T: 01753 257982 E: horlickssales@berkeleygroup.co.uk W: horlicksquarter.co.uk Marketing Suite open daily Stoke Gardens, Slough, SL1 3QB

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A GREAT LIFESTYLE AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY - Part of Horlicks Quarter, a vibrant new neighbourhood in central Slough - Superb investment opportunity with est. rental yield up to 5% pa* - Slough is in the early stages of a £3.5bn regeneration scheme - Residents’ facilities include concierge, gym, co-working hub, cinema room, games room and a striking rooftop garden - 15-minute trains to London Paddington, 6 minutes to Windsor**

- Crossrail due to open in 2022 Information correct at time of print. Computer generated images indicative only and subject to change. *Savills Lettings Forecast January 2022 **www.nationalrail.co.uk

08/02/2022 07/02/2022 10:40 09:48

C U LT U R E

NEW BURY RACEDAYS FROM 4 MARCH, NEWBURY RACECOURSE

Newbury Racecourse has plenty on, with the BetVictor Opening Weekend on 4-5 March and the Jump Season Finale on 1-2 April, followed by the start of the flat season over Easter on 16-17 April with the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials meeting. Two days of epic racing and on course activities include the Racing Experience Day and Easter Sunday family fun. newburyracecourse.co.uk

Agenda 16 • Richard Tyler 20 • Aimee Vivian 27 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

M A RC H ' S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

FA M I LY

Family Raceday

PAUL COLTAS

27 March A S C O T R AC E C O U R S E The Spring Family Raceday, on Sunday 27 March, is Ascot’s ﬁrst dedicated family day in 2022, and there are plenty of delights in store this year. Fortuitously falling on Mothering Sunday, this is the perfect opportunity to spend an actionpacked afternoon of Jumps racing and family-friendly activities in the company of your nearest and dearest. ascot.com

T H E AT R E

Chicago 8- 12 MA RC H , MK THEATRE

‘Three Degrees’ soul sensation Sheila Ferguson will star as Mama Morton alongside acclaimed classical signer Russell Watson as Billy Flynn (pictured) in the UK and Ireland tour of the international smash hit musical Chicago, coming to Buckinghamshire this month. Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is a story of murder, the media and sensational stories. atgtickets.com

A RT

Watercolours and Pastels Until 29 March THE BASE, GREENHAM The Base will host general painting classes in March with an emphasis on watercolour and pastel painting. You will learn the basic techniques of watercolour in an accessible way, as well as pastel and other media, and you will also learn colour theory and composition. thebasegreenham.co.uk

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CULTURE • DIARY

ART

P H OTO GRA P H Y

TO WATC H

Ingrid Pollard

INGRID POLLARD, THERE WAS MUCH INTERRUPTION (DETAIL), 2015, MIXED MEDIA INSTALLATION

A spotlight on some of the emerging art shows to check out this month

12 March-29 May MK GALLERY A major survey of Guyanese-born British artist and photographer Ingrid Pollard will be presented at MK Gallery – the ﬁrst exhibition to fully explore Pollard’s experimental practice, from the 1980s to the present day, and examine her substantial contribution to British art. Pollard is renowned for using photography as social practice, working with portrait and landscape photography to question our relationship with the natural world. mkgallery.org

COLIN HUTTON Photographer Colin Hutton’s solo exhibition Formats opens at the JM Gallery in Portobello Road. Portraits of ﬁgures with elaborate head pieces created from nostalgic recording formats including original audio cassettes, VHS, polaroid and vinyl, shot using today’s digital technology. 2-6 March, huttonimages.com COLIN HUTTON, BAD GIRLS, 2021

EV E N T

WADDESDON OPENING From 23 March WA D D E S D O N M A N O R In late March, the Manor at Waddesdon will re-open for visitors to enjoy and explore the exceptional collection within. Having been ‘put to bed’ over the winter months for important cleaning and conservation work, as spring approaches Waddesdon’s stewards will be reinstating the rooms ready for another season. waddesdon.org.uk

This Month’s Must See

MIKE FEAR

ART ON A POSTCARD

THE WICKER HUSBAND 11- 26 MARCH, WATERMILL THEATRE

olk-inspired new musical The Wicker Husband tells the timeless tale of the outsider. Ostracised by the shallow townsfolk because she doesn’t ﬁt in, the Ugly Girl becomes the envy of her neighbours when the mysterious Old Basketmaker makes her a strong and loving husband woven from living wicker. As jealousy threatens to tear the community apart, the townsfolk embark on a cruel and destructive plan.

Art on a Postcard presents its third annual International Women’s Day auction raising funds for the Hepatitis C Trust. An incredible all-female line-up of artists have produced original postcard sized works and the bidding starts at just £50, so it’s a unique opportunity to take home a mini-masterpiece by a highly collectible artist. Bidding open via Dreweatts Auction House until 15 March, dreweatts.com

TIM FISHLOCK Over at Hang-Up Gallery, artist Tim Fishlock presents Paradise Version, a love letter to music and a celebration of independent record shops. Through his text-based paintings, Fishlock explores the esoteric world of record collecting. From 24 March, hanguppictures.com

watermill.org.uk

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ANNIVERSARY to

REMEMBER Hot off the press, Henley Festival has announced its 40th birthday plans – and as beﬁtting the occasion, it’s quite the line-up 18

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CULTURE • EVENT

enley Festival, presented by Westcoast, has revealed their unmissable lineup for this year’s 40th anniversary celebrations from 6-10 July, 2022. Festival goers are invited to be part of an unforgettable experience when the boutique black-tie festival returns to Henley-on-Thames’ stunning riverside for five spectacular summer nights, celebrating 40 years of music, comedy, art, dancing, gastronomy, fireworks and magical moments. A truly unique event, Henley Festival is world renowned for curating a vibrant programme spanning pop, world music, classical and jazz, where art, comedy and gastronomy share equal billing with music – and this year is set to be the biggest year yet. The show begins from the moment

“HENLEY FESTIVAL IS WORLD RENOWNED FOR CURATING A VIBRANT PROGRAMME” festival goers step onto the green banks of the Thames, to be dazzled by the enchanting troupes of entertainers, to take a ride on the vintage fun fair, or to enjoy a glass of fizz on the Moët Champagne lawn with a stunning view of the river, and – after an evening of world-class music, comedy, dining and dancing – concludes with a jaw-dropping fireworks spectacular. One of the world’s most successful bands, The Script, will open Henley Festival’s popular Floating Stage on the Wednesday evening. The blockbusting Irish trio – Danny O’Donoghue, Glen Power and Mark Sheehan – have five UK number one albums, six billion streams and two million ticket sales to their name, and are now set to entertain the Henley crowd with their biggest hits and fan favourites from their career-spanning greatest hits album Tales From The Script. Henley Festival’s opening night will be brought to a fabulous close by euro-disco phenomenon Boney M, with the original lead singer Liz Mitchell, performing international chartbusters in the Festival Club. On Thursday, one the most successful artists in UK chart history, Craig David, will perform an epic evening of his best-loved hits. Twenty years since the critically-acclaimed album, Born To Do It, changed his life, he has catapulted back into the charts and into the nation’s hearts – amassing over five billion streams worldwide on the way – and the demand to see his incredible live performances is higher than ever. The legendary, incomparable Sir Tom Jones will return to Henley and the Floating Stage on Friday evening to captivate the crowd with music from his 41st studio album, Surrounded By Time. This record – which was recorded in his native Wales for the very first time, and went straight to the top of the UK charts – is Sir Tom’s most personal collection to date, and further extends the extraordinary legacy of his career spanning over five decades. On Saturday, revered DJ, broadcaster

and global dance music legend Pete Tong, together with The Heritage Orchestra and Jules Buckley, will present an unforgettable evening of iconic classical electronic music. Inventively bold, Ibiza Classics will showcase Tong’s enigmatic reimaginations of classic house tracks, transporting the Floating Stage audience all the way from Henley to the White Isle for a Balearic party like no other. This year’s Festival will close with an extraordinary 40th Anniversary Concert on Sunday evening, featuring an exclusive line-up of special guests to be announced. The Henley audience are invited to be part of something truly amazing as the Festival wraps up five spectacular summer evenings by celebrating 40 years of unforgettable memories. This is just the start. There will be a spectacular line up of world music elsewhere at the festival, plus awardwinning comedy, foodie delights and a visual arts showcase. It’s looking like a 40th birthday to remember. For all ticket information visit the festival website at henley-festival.co.uk

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“I moved on, but always with that sense of the support and inspiration of my home county” 20

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

T H E

W O R L D ’ S

STAG E From dazzling us in the West End to tapping into the way we think, Richard Tyler has had an eclectic career – but the latest chapter sees him facing his biggest challenge yet B y K AT I E T R A X T O N

n 2017, I first met Buckinghamshireborn behavioural psychologist Richard Tyler. Knowing he was a former star of the West End, who’d held roles such as Marius in Les Mis and for five years played Raoul in the Phantom of the Opera, I had to calm my desire to ask him endless questions about his life and learning. As over time I’ve had the privilege to work with him and come to call him a friend, I’ve discovered one of the most fascinating and kindest people I’ve ever met. In December 2021, at only 49 years of age, Tyler was diagnosed with an aggressive Stage IV cancer which, if left untreated, would give him only a few more months to live. His response was as remarkable as always. While undergoing multiple rounds of rapid chemotherapy, he and his family decided to create a foundation for others suffering similar fates, but without the support network Tyler has. We could all learn from his story and wisdom, yet he so often spends his time supporting people on their own

journeys, listening, seeing and seeking to understand without judgement that his own history remains masked – but now was the time to tell his story.

INFINITY AND BEYOND “When I was a young boy, I used to go to the top of Coombe Hill in the Chilterns and fly a kite there with my dad. We’d walk through the woods and we’d get to the top of the hill and hope there was enough wind for the kite to take off. I remember standing with such an expanse of space around me, able to enjoy the room and spaciousness. It felt like anything was possible because I could see right to the horizon. “I really enjoyed growing up in Buckinghamshire and still have a lot of love for the county, but I also had a yearning within me to experience the wider world. When I found the theatre and when I found London, they provided a strong life force pulling me. I moved on, but always with that sense of the support and inspiration of my home county.”

THE GREATEST SHOW “When I was about nine, my mum took me to the theatre to see Barnum the musical with Michael Crawford. It was absolutely breath-taking. It filled my heart with joy and wonder, I absolutely adored it. I remember saying to my mum, 'Who will take over from Michael Crawford when this show finishes?' She said, 'Oh it won’t keep running then,' to which I replied, 'But that’s a terrible thing, I want my children to see it one day. In that case I’ll have to do it!' “That was back in the days of the Yellow Pages and I went home, found a local drama school and rang them up. Soon I started elocution lessons and that was it. I got a small part in the school play, not the part I wanted – I was really miffed about that – but that was the moment it began. “Sometimes in life you get an overwhelming sense of 'that’s it, I’ve got to do it'. I felt that about performing in the theatre, because theatre is such an incredibly joyous, life-changing thing. I wanted to bring that joy to others.” A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

TYLER IS A POPULAR PUBLIC SPEAKER

LA VIE BOHÈME

THE NEXT ACT

“Suggesting I wouldn’t go to work in the West End was like someone arguing that the moon and the sun weren’t in the sky or that gravity doesn’t exist. I had a childlike inner knowing that it was going to happen. As a teenager, I had a small circle of friends, I spent my weekends doing amateur theatre, singing lessons, even galas in London. I dedicated my life to the theatre. I’m fortunate that I had massive support from my mum and dad. I got my first professional job at 17 in a pantomime at the Theatre Royal Windsor and managed to get my Equity card before I went to drama school, so everything lined up. It felt like the universe was very kind to me. There were things that didn’t go well, but generally my path was quite straight-forward compared to a lot of people in that industry. “I can still remember my first night of Les Mis in London. The first time that overture kicks in with ‘bom, bom’ it was incredible. My entire body shook, it was wonderful. I wasn’t playing Marius at that point, I was in the ensemble and it was my first West End gig, a year and a half out of drama school, so for me, hearing that was a symbol of having arrived. In many ways every moment I was performing was my favourite moment. My very last performance before retiring was with the Phantom company. It was very moving, very defining, I wanted to savour every moment of it and at the same time felt a relief that it was done.”

“I used to tell people that I left the theatre, because I needed to try something different. The reality was that I was completely burnt out, I was a shadow of myself. I’d become disenchanted with the business and fallen out of love with it. I felt very upset about that, but every day had become the hardest day. I was a perfectionist, I was utterly immersed in getting it right, being good enough. My love of theatre had always been about being present and connecting with every member of the audience, but by the end all I could think about was me. Did I get that note right? Was I good enough? I’d be consumed by it all night; I wouldn’t sleep. It was very unhealthy. “Almost like the no-brainer that I’d work in theatre, it was a no-brainer that I’d leave. I had no idea what I was going to do and I didn’t have a care in the world about that. I went for all kinds

“Suggesting I wouldn't work in the West End was like someone arguing that the sun wasn't in the sky” HE STILL LOVES WHAT BUCKINGHAMSHIRE HAS TO OFFER

WITH HIS DOG ROYSTON

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Poggenpohl Marlow 75 High St | Marlow SL7 1AB phone 01628 326 061 marlow@poggenpohl.com www.marlow.poggenpohl.com

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AC T I O N PAC K E D Q UA L I T Y TIME S P R I N G FA M I LY R AC E DAY S U N DAY 2 7 T H M A R C H The Spring Family Raceday is the ultimate Mother’s Day treat. Enjoy high-octane Jumps racing, face painting, petting farms, pony rides, and endless family fun. Tickets from £26 | Under 18s Go Free Fine Dining from £139 + VAT Book now at ascot.com

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XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

THE CHILTERNS HOLD FOND CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

HE HAS MOVED INTO PSYCHOLOGY

of jobs, I was curious. Finally, I chose a job as a coach at a consultancy called Q Learning in Henley-on-Thames. It gave me the same joy I found in the theatre; the opportunity to connect with people, to understand stories that they are living.”

FEELING THE EARTH MOVE

WITH HIS LOVING FAMILY

APPEARING ON SKY NEWS TO TALK ABOUT HIS TREATMENT

“Getting my cancer diagnosis wasn’t the most awful moment of my life. The most awful moment was attempting to tell Mia, my only child, that her dad has Stage IV cancer and without treatment I’d only have another few months. From September 2021, I’d had some symptoms, been to see various doctors, been prescribed medication that had temporarily alleviated symptoms, only for them to return and received a number of referrals to specialists. Then on 6 December, I heard from my oncologist that they’d got my biopsy results and that they wanted me to go in that night or the next morning. Then I knew. “Up to that point I knew there was something not quite right, but I wasn’t expecting to be lying on the bed and hear the consultant say I had a very aggressive Stage IV b mantel cell lymphoma which is treatable, but notoriously hard to get rid of and that without treatment I’d have a few months. I stopped listening after that. I was there another three hours, but I couldn’t take any more in. I was heartbroken. My entire world crumbled

away. I didn’t know how I was going to cope. It was a life-changing day. My wife and I decided we wanted to tell Mia and her mother the next day. It’s seven weeks ago today and there are still no words. “We were offered a revolutionary drug that would increase my chances of full remission by 15%, but it was going to cost us £40,000. We didn’t have £40,000 sitting in a bank so my wife set up a GoFundMe to contribute to it. Amazingly, we hit the full target in less than a week. More than the money though, was the outpouring of love from people who we did know and who we didn’t know offering to support us in any way they could, to cook food, even to be bone marrow donors. “We realised we were going to go over £40,000 and I was struck in that moment by how fortunate I was. I had cancer, but I had so much support. Around me, so many families are going through it in isolation, some having to take on night jobs, potentially travelling across a city to have chemo. I couldn’t sit back and watch that, so we quickly decided to set up a foundation where we could lift some of that burden by giving money to UK families where one member had been diagnosed with a blood cancer. “We called it the Willow Tree Foundation, because the willow tree is symbolic of withstanding the harshest conditions. It bends and flexes as it needs to. That’s what we want to do with our cancer journey and in life. I can’t change the weather, but I can adapt to it. Through the foundation we can stand shoulder-to-shoulder and heart-to-heart with others on a unique, but similar path. Standing 'shoulder-toshoulder' has a very practical quality, helping with money and resources, being strong and present and sharing the burden, while 'heart-to-heart' represents sharing some of the love that we have with others through kindness and compassion.” If you would like to learn more about the Willow Tree Foundation or nominate someone for support please visit willowtreefoundation.org; to donate please go to gofund.me/26c2f49c

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Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor

Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles The Gleneagles experience is one of 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. A main season 2 bedroom rental starts from £3,500 for 7 nights. Find out more: GLENEAGLES.COM/GLENMOR + 44 (0)1764 694321

The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneagles to provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which

Unique Cornish Holidays POLZEATH ROCK DAYMER BAY

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GOLF | LEISURE | FOOD & DRINK

18/02/2022 11:42

CULTURE • PROFILE

Q Christmas seems a long time ago, but how did the Jingle Bell Ball go? A It was amazing. I don’t think I’ll ever get that close – or get over being that close – to Justin Bieber again. It’s just a lovely weekend where the whole team is together, we get to bring you all of our favourites popstars, and it’s Christmas so everyone is in the best mood. There’s this really special feeling you get when you're stood in the 02 and someone as big as Ed Sheeran is on that stage and the whole audience is singing his songs at an event you work at. I always get goosebumps.

Get to know…

AIMEE VIVIAN CA P I TA L F M R A D I O P R E S E N T E R

Q Looking back, is it a decade since you first started working in radio at university? What did you love about it that made you pursue it as a career? A Wow yes, it is a whole decade. Now I feel old! When I was at university, I just loved hosting all the dance shows we were putting on for our degree and I thought “I love this, this could be something I pursue”. When I moved back home to Milton Keynes, MKFM had just started, and I was working full time with my dad’s PAT testing business (Janus Safety Solutions) and I volunteered after work every day. I did it for nearly three years before Capital approached me – that’s how much I loved just getting to sit behind a mic, chatting to everyone and playing good songs. Q How would you sum up your time with Capital so far? A Unbelievably brilliant. I genuinely feel so lucky I get to call this my job every day. It’s the best. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HOME OFFERS SCENIC SIGHTS

“I love waking up and being able to take the dogs out round the ﬁelds” Q Have there been particular highlights that will always stand out for you? A We’ve done some amazing broadcasts all around the UK and Europe. I loved it when we got to go to Casa Amor, we did our radio shows from there, it was incredible. A standout moment though was probably back in 2019 backstage at Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball, I was stood at the side of the stage ready to go on and present, Harry Styles was performing and Stormzy was up next. Stormzy gave me the biggest hug and then Harry Styles runs off, high fives us and then goes to chat to Stormzy. It was a beautiful moment to witness and be a part of. They were both bigging each other up and how they loved each other’s music. When you see artists interacting like that, it’s super special.

SHE LOVES THE OLD THATCHED INN AT ADSTOCK

Q Out of work, do you still live in Milton Keynes? A Yes I do. I’ve now converted to the village life so just outside, but I just love that feeling of getting on the train from London and getting to go home every day. I actually feel like I switch off from work and life sometimes. I love waking up and being able to take the dogs round the fields. My family and best friends are here so I get to see them. I think it’s just an amazing place to live, there’s so much to do. Q If possible, can you pick out three local places you love visiting the most? A The Old Thatched Inn, Adstock; Greedy Italian, Bletchley; and College Woods near Little Horwood. Q Spring is approaching, so

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH BIEBER HIMSELF

THE COUNTY OFFERS PLENTY OF FUN FOR DOGS

is a little tapas bar in Wolverton called Ole. It’s authentic Spanish tapas and is absolutely incredible. Also the Mole and Chicken near Long Crendon is absolutely amazing. They are both tucked away.

do you have outdoor spots you love in Buckinghamshire? A That’s actually really hard because there’s so many. I literally go on the footpath maps and find new routes to walk the dogs all the time, especially ones that lead to a pub at the end. But I love the walks through the Aspley Heath woods, also round Stony Stratford towards the old mill, and also you can walk to Cosgrove and end up at the Barley Mow that way too.

Q Finally Aimee, what does 2022 hold in store for you? A Well, that would be telling... Seriously though, lots more radio and lots more time with my dogs at home – we are renovating our house so expect to see that on my social media channels! And hopefully a few other things we are working on too.

Q Do you have a local secret you are willing to reveal? A One of my favourite places to eat out

Catch Aimee Vivian on Capital FM weekdays 1-4pm and Saturdays 124pm, and follow her @aimeevivian

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18/02/2022 09:51

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21/02/2022 15:14

CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

TREND SETTER

Carnaby has long been ahead of its time and, in 2022, it remains one of London’s top destinations

“Carnaby is one of London’s most Instagrammable destinations. Every corner is an opportunity for the perfect picture”

or over three centuries, Carnaby has never been far from the zeitgeist. Ever since it was first built in 1682 – taking its name from Karnaby House – there has always been a story to tell. The 20th century, in particular, saw Carnaby synonymous with music and fashion, with some of the hottest – and controversial – names from the industries inextricably linked to this part of London. Today Carnaby, which is made up of 14 streets, still has a story to tell, offering over 100 retailers and more than 70 bars and restaurants. Moving with the times, Carnaby is one of London’s most Instagrammable destinations. Every corner is an opportunity for the perfect picture with rainbow shimmer disk arches and the iconic black and white arches along Carnaby Street. Head over to the west side of Ganton Street and be dazzled by 51 oversized light bulbs suspended from the sky. Enjoy the pink festoon lights along Kingly Street whilst deciding on where to dine. Brand new openings to the area include Zahter, which specialises in Istanbulite cuisine, and Kanada-Ya, which focuses on authentic Japanese ramen. Tapas Brindisa, Jinjuu, Pastaio and Mamma Pastrama are among the popular eateries in the area. Three floor foodie hub Kingly Court is home to Korean Dinner Party, Imad’s Syrian Kitchen, Club Mexicana and The Good Egg alongside Le Bab, Shoryu, Pizza Pilgrims and Dirty Bones. The bars of Carnaby offer a similarly eclectic choice. Enjoy a 150-strong wine list at Bar Crispin, be immersed in a 1940s experience at Cahoots or hidden gem Disrepute, or head over to the Newburgh Quarter and enjoy Antidote Wine Bar.

Fashion remains at the heart of the area. With over 100 international brands alongside independent retailers, Carnaby is the go-to central London shopping destination. Shops like Mallet London, Astrid & Miyu, Nobody’s Child, and the Rolling Stones flagship store RS No.9 Carnaby are all hugely popular. Shop in the Newburgh Quarter and enjoy Metal Morphosis, Annie’s Ibiza, Soho Home, The Great Frog, Mor London, Aubin and Fred Perry. Carnaby’s beauty offering goes from strength to strength with vegan beauty brand Freshly Cosmetics alongside stores Benefit, Too Faced, M.A.C, Pixi and not forgetting the first men’s makeup store, War Paint For Men, which emphasises how Carnaby remains a game changer. There’s never been a better time to experience a little bit of history. For more information visit carnaby.co.uk and follow @CarnabyLondon on social media A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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17/02/2022 16:53

L E A D I N G the W A Y 32

Suzy Hobbs BUS I NE S S : Hobbs of Henley

Ltd and Mr Hobbs Gin P OS I TI O N: Business Development Manager

and Co-founder of Mr Hobbs Gin

Q When you were younger, what did

you want to be when you grew up? A A vet as I have always had a huge love for animals.

Q Tell us about the business… A Hobbs of Henley is a family boating

business in Henley on Thames and was founded in 1870. Today it is still run by the family – Jonathan Hobbs is the fifth generation at the helm. We have a fleet of over 50 boats ranging from a 200-seater Mississippi style paddle steamer ‘The New Orleans’ to 3-seater rowing boats and with a huge range of boats in between. Mr Hobbs Gin was founded in 2017 by myself and Jonathan and we now have a portfolio of five different gins and gin liqueurs. We continue to supply many pubs, bars, hotels, restaurants and sporting clubs in and around the Henley area, and attend many events around the country promoting our gin where we can. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A We live in a village called Stoke Row, ten minutes out of Henley. It is our haven away from work and a lovely, quiet village in the country. We have fabulous pubs and restaurants on our doorstep such as The Crooked Billet and The Cherry Tree and can walk straight out of our house and into the countryside for long walks with our Boxer. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A To not sweat the small stuff. Life throws you enough challenges so don’t worry about the things or people that are not so important or that you can’t change, concentrate on the things that you can improve on. hobbsofhenley.com; mrhobbsgin.co.uk

International Women’s Day falls on 8 March, so to celebrate the event we chatted to ﬁve inspirational ladies about their business success stories

SUZY HOBBS

Rachel Braithwaite BUSIN E SS: The Cherrywood Clinic POSITION : Clinical Director

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A For a long time I wanted to be a farmer, and then I wanted to work in theatre. I'd never even heard of laser back then! I’ve been lucky to experience a few different roles since university. Q Tell us about your business… A The Cherrywood Clinic is the UK’s

longest running specialist laser aesthetics clinic. We are passionate about all things laser – we believe that by only offering laser treatment our clients can benefit from expert, specialist advice without the dilution of our knowledge base and therefore their results. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional results for our clients with a bespoke and tailored approach to each client’s needs and treatment aims. Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A A work/life balance is certainly a hard thing

to achieve when you run your own business and when you work with your husband! But we make sure that we have a ‘cut off’ every evening where we no longer discuss work.

Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A That life is too short to continue something that is making you unhappy. cherrywoodclinic.co.uk

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22/02/2022 16:24

CULTURE • PARTNERSHIP

Nikki Carr BUS I N E S S : Nikki Carr Fine Artist P OS I TI O N : Owner/Artist

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? An artist or a flautist – turns out I could be both! Q Tell us about the business you run today? A I am a realist artist selling original pieces, prints and art cards, specialising in portraits and equine subjects. Working mostly in oils or charcoal and the occasional gold leaf, I release collections of original work through the year, take on numerous commissions and exhibit at contemporary art fairs. This year I will be focussing on preparing work for The Other Art Fair in London. Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A Working for myself, on my own terms. Creating work that not only gives me a sense of fulfilment, but also gives pleasure to others. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Wokingham – a historic market town sandwiched between Bracknell and Reading. I love its character, Tudor buildings and village atmosphere. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A To not close the door on something that you’re good at and which gives you such joy, just because others tell you that there’s probably no future in it or it is a hard road to travel. nikkicarr.co.uk; @nikkicarrartist

RACHEL BRAITHWAITE

NIKKI CARR

Caroline Service & Dani Townson BUSIN E SS: Evie & Skye POSITION : Co-Founders

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A Caroline: I never thought about what I wanted to be when I grew up, I just lived in the moment! Dani: I always wanted to be an interior designer. I used to draw kitchens and added in all the accessories and plants. Q Tell us about your business... A Dani & Caroline: Evie & Skye is a luxury

lifestyle brand. We design aspirational, fresh and luxurious homewares inspired by the decorative style of the Art Deco movement, the fresh sophistication of the Amalfi Coast and the casual playfulness of Palm Springs. We have a saying that is the basis of everything we do: “the beauty is in the mix”.

CAROLINE SERVICE DANI TOWNSON

Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A Dani: I love going to Covent Garden with my daughter. Caroline: My happy place is walking along the coastal path near home. The crashing waves and the fresh salty air instantly refreshes me. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A Dani: I wish I could tell that 9-year-old Dani that one day she would be able to create the beautiful spaces of her dreams in real life. Caroline: Your life will be amazing, because it’s yours to tell. evieandskye.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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22/02/2022 16:24

www.bpcollins.co.uk | 01844 397397

Rule no. 3 Where next?

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FOOD & DRINK

ROYAL OCCASION THE TARBAY BOTANIST

The Tarbay Botanist is a family-run craft gin distillery where they hand make, bottle and label their fine gin in small batches from the distillery in Windsor. Their new gin, The Jubilee Gin, is to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee celebration. It is infused with earl grey tea, lemon and rose and goes well with a plain tonic, plenty of ice and a slice of lemon. As well as the Jubilee gin, The Tarbay Botanist produce award-winning Windsor and Fireside gin. thetarbaybotanist.com

Food News 36 • Paeonia 38 • Taste Newbury 40 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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17/02/2022 17:21

WHAT TO DRINK

IN THE spirit Gin recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

The latest launches and news from across the county By MARK KEBBLE

By PUDDINGSTONE DISTILLERY

Campﬁre Cask Aged Gin 70cl 43% ABV  £40 Forget any preconception about cask aged spirits. This is not smoky, it’s not woody, it’s simply delicious. Ten botanicals underpin a gin that draws its pale golden hue, soft fruity bourbon notes, hints of caramel and a lingering vanilla palate from the meticulously selected American Oak casks.

Campﬁre London Dry Gin 70cl 42% ABV  £36 An exquisite London Dry gin that has won multiple spirits awards and the World’s Best Martini Challenge, expertly balancing classic and contemporary botanicals with smoothness and complexity. Juniper and fresh orange peel entangle with golden berry, rooibos and six other botanicals in this favourite.

Campﬁre Navy Strength Gin 70cl 57% ABV  £44 Launched to critical acclaim, the rich mouthfeel and sumptuous full-bodied ﬂavour of this exceptionally smooth Navy Strength gin belies its higher strength. This is packed with juniper and excels in all applications, from a bold gin and tonic through to a classic gimlet cocktail. Anchors away.

The Campfire Gin range is distilled by founders and operators, Ben and Kate Marston, at the multi-award winning Puddingstone Distillery in Tring, Hertfordshire. Alongside the four strong Campfire Gin range the distillery also produces seasonal varieties and special editions in support of conservation and wildlife projects.

puddingstonedistillery.com

Doorstep dining D I S H PATC H

Fancy food from a Michelin starred chef in your own home? Dishpatch has announced their latest partnership with Marlow’s The Coach by Tom Kerridge, delivering a menu of elevated classics to kitchens across the county. The menu is ﬁlled with comforting dishes to help perk up even the dullest of spring evenings; from the Truffled Tunworth Gougères savoury snack, to Ale Braised Short Rib served up with English Mustard Mash. dishpatch.co.uk

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17/02/2022 17:20

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

STUFFED CRUST How to mark British Pie Week from 7-13 March

GREEN’S OF PA N G B O U R N E

Get cooking G O R D O N R A M S AY ACA D E M Y

MOTHER OF ALL TREATS THE IVY MARLOW GARDEN

This Mother’s Day, The Ivy Marlow Garden is offering a carefully crafted afternoon tea made for two. Expect Ivy cure smoked salmon and cream cheese ﬁnger sandwiches, chicken and truffle mayonnaise brioche rolls, freshly baked fruit scones, clotted cream and strawberry preserve, all served with a choice of teas, infusions or coffees. theivymarlowgarden.com

Today, over 1,000 pies are made and sold every week at Green’s. Many have won Gold Awards at national and international festivals of food. All use only high quality Green’s meat, and are handmade to chef Philip Cripps’ own recipes. Their pies come in a range of sizes. greensofpangbourne.com

Whether you're a seasoned home cook or don't know one end of a spatula from the other, the Gordon Ramsay Academy has got you covered. At the Academy there are a huge range of fun adult, children's and online cooking classes, a great team of chefs and fantastic kitchen facilities to inspire you to get cooking, get conﬁdent and just give it a go. Plus, if you’re planning ahead for Mother’s Day or a special birthday, they have a great selection of cooking class gift vouchers, too. gordonramsayacademy.com

Y E S

CHEF DE VERE BEAUMONT

MONTY PIEMAN Monty Pieman makes pies. Pork pies, savoury pies and sausage rolls. Pies which are a little bit different. Need proof? In 2014 they won awards for their pork pies in Melton Mowbray (where they know a thing or two about pies). They offer a great selection, with twists on Buckinghamshire classics too. montypieman.co.uk

Jon Luca Keane, Senior Chef de Partie at De Vere Beaumont Estate, located in Old Windsor, was crowned Junior Chef Champion at the IACC UK Copper Skillet competition. He now progresses to the next stage of the competition, where he will travel to Las Vegas, to represent the UK. devere.co.uk

Iconic reinvention H O N E ST B U R G E R S

On 1 February, Honest Burgers in Reading launched the Wellington special, a burger inspired by the iconic English dish. It comprises the classic Honest beef patty, smoked bacon, cheddar, a homemade Béarnaise butter, crispy gluten-free pastry straws, bacon gravy, mushroom duxelles, baby spinach and pickles, a snip at £14 including a portion of homemade rosemary chips on the side. Proper Honest to goodness. honestburgers.co.uk

SW E E N EY & TO D D This restaurant in Reading is famous for their award-winning pies, with people flocking there from out of town to savour one of their savouries. Established for over 40 years, Sweeney & Todd is a Reading institution. If you have not yet tried the Sweeney & Todd famous pies, then you have not lived. sweeneyandtodd.co.uk

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17/02/2022 17:20

ANH PHAM’S PAEONIA HAS CAPTIVATED WINDSOR

Living in a

BUBBLE

Since opening last year, Paeonia has wowed visitors to Windsor. With rapid expansion on the horizon, we catch up with founder Anh Pham to see why it has touched a nerve By MARK KEBBLE

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17/02/2022 17:14

FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

ou’d think given the last two years, we would have had enough of anything to do with bubbles – but Paeonia in Windsor isn’t like anything else that has come before it. It’s home to bubble tea, which explains Paeonia founder Anh Pham is “a tea-based drink served cold, hot or iced with chewy tapioca pearls providing an addictive mix of textures”, and there are literally hundreds of combinations you can choose from. Which perhaps explains why Paeonia is seeing high levels of revisits, as there is always something else to try. Originating in Taiwan in the 1980s, bubble tea really started to take off in the UK as the 21st century trundled on, with social media playing its part. “We have customers of all ages at Paeonia,” Pham says, “but bubble tea is, without doubt, most

popular with the younger, Instagram-friendly generation. Bubble tea is so versatile and fun, it is delicious, you can tailor it to suit your tastebuds, and it also looks cute!” Looks are everything at Paeonia, as the décor inside instantly puts a smile on your face. Why Windsor? “I instantly fell in love with Windsor when I first visited the town in 2015,” Pham smiles. “As a keen traveller, I have been to many different places, but Windsor has my heart. I instantly knew that I wanted to live here.” And Windsor, it seems, has embraced Pham too. “We had people queuing out of the door on launch day,” she says. “Our aim is to bring a very premium experience at Paeonia, where people can get familiar with new tastes they have never experienced before. As a bubble tea lover myself, I never stop creating new flavours every season to introduce to our customers.” On the last point, it feels like there is no

“I never stop creating new ﬂavours to introduce to customers”

limit to what you may find at Paeonia. “Our best sellers are the fluffy cheese crème brulee with tapioca pearls and fluffy dirty mess – milk tea with brown sugar pearls, fluffy cream cheese and Oreo crumbles,” Pham says. “You can literally choose from a multitude of fruit and milk flavours. You can also make bubble tea with a variety of plant-based milks, including oat, coconut, almond and soya, with all popping balls and jellies being plant-based. We have also just introduced Vietnamese iced coffee on the menu, which is stronger and sweeter than regular coffee, and really worth a try.” It’s amazing to think that Paeonia opened in Windsor during the height of a pandemic, especially given its immediate success. “There’s no doubt it was a tricky time for the whole hospitality industry,” Pham nods, “but when the pandemic hit, we were too far down the line to stop and just decided to go for it. Having a premium bubble tea room was my dream, and I never stopped making my dream come true.” With talk already that Pham will be taking Paeonia to other locations in Berkshire and further afield, that dream is very much a reality now. Paeonia is certainly bubbling away rather nicely.

PA E O N I A W I N D S O R Unit 46, Windsor Royal Station, Jubilee Arch Windsor, SL4 1PJ 01753 206270 • paeoniacafe.co.uk

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17/02/2022 17:14

FOOD & DRINK • Q&A

H O RS E S CO U RS E S Martin Wales tells us about the different facets to Taste Newbury, Newbury Racecourse’s food and drink brand

Q How important is the Taste Newbury brand to the overall operation at Newbury Racecourse? A Taste Newbury was born out of a recent partnership with our new catering company Levy, which we launched in 2021. Food and drink is an integral element to our raceday experience for all our customers. The menus, suppliers and products on offer to all our guests stem from our Taste Newbury vision to create memorable experiences. Whether this is our fish and chips, sourced from Brixham Fish Market, or our sausage rolls from Orchard Farm, we take pride in what we serve. Q What kind of experience can we expect at The Hennessy? A The Hennessy restaurant is Newbury Racecourse’s fine dining restaurant where the service and experience exceed expectations for those joining us on racedays. The menu is cooked with fresh ingredients from local seasonal suppliers as well as offering panoramic views of the course and finish line. Q How does head chef Darren

Fairminer approach the menu? Darren, in partnership with the executive chef from Levy, would create and base their dishes around what is going to deliver the best customer experience as well as using seasonal produce. Q What are the stand out dishes? A The Slow Braised Beef Cheek really

is a fan favourite as a leading main dish, as well as the Mille Feuille of Roasted Aubergine to start. We are moving towards more plant-based menus that reduces our carbon emissions, and Levy is committed to a sustainable journey,

wonderful roastery chicken with frites to a mouth-watering steak sandwich as well as vegetarian options. New coffee units across site offer barrister style coffee and a selection of sweet pastries. The units would be bespoke to each event and some fan favourites include Cocktail Box offering mixologists that create fresh cocktails in front of your eyes, to our more traditional fish and chips located permanently at Newbury. Q What’s new for 2022? A We have some exciting changes happening

which will reduce our carbon footprint with an aim to be net zero by 2027. Q How different is The Racegoers Restaurant experience? With stunning panoramic views overlooking the final furlong, located in the Dubai Duty Free Grandstand, this restaurant is ideal for celebrations, informal workdays out or family occasions. Packages include a table for the day, a three-course lunch from a table d’hote menu, and a Tipster Talk before racing from our expert, talking diners through the runners of the day. Q What’s on offer in a private hospitality suite? A The private hospitality suites are perfect for friends, family and colleagues as the ultimate way to experience Newbury Racecourse. Coupled with exceptional views of the racing from the iconic Berkshire Stand, the unique food and drink packages offer a raceday experience to suit all budgets and requirements. There are three different menus ranging from canapes, a threecourse sit down to a more informal buffet style, allowing all to select their preference. Q Outside, you also offer concession stands – such as what? A A standout is Carbonis, who offer a

in 2022 such as the permeant instalment of two Costa Coffee outlets in our two main Grandstands, as well as our new Parade Ring lawn offering. Following the major redevelopment of our outdoor areas across the site, our attention in now focused on upgrading some of our indoor spaces and bars. The newly refurbished Long Room Paddock Bar and Long Room Racetrack Bar is currently under refurbishment to feature a dedicated Gin Bar as well as a premium upgrade space with ample lounge and poseur seating. This will be completed in 2022 for the start of the flat season on 16 & 17 April across Easter Weekend, which we are excited to launch. For more information visit newburyracecourse.co.uk

FINE FOOD WITH A VIEW

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18/02/2022 16:49

Mother’s Day Weekend at Chalk Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th

Spoil your mother this Mother’s Day with something a little more special than a bouquet of flowers or box of chocolates and book one of our Mother’s Day Weekend offers at Chalk. ‘MOTHERING AFTERNOON TEA WEEKEND’ This celebratory afternoon tea experience will include a choice of fine teas and gourmet coffee, along with an assortment of delicious finger sandwiches, topped off with tiers of charming cakes. Each mouthful is thoughtfully considered, and hand crafted with exquisite attention to detail by our in-house pastry chef. Traditional Afternoon Tea | Priced at £32.95 per person Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea is served at 3pm or 3.30pm on Friday 25th, Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th of March. ‘MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND SET MENU’ Mother’s Day is a special occasion and a time when every mum should be pampered! Why not take this opportunity to show your mum how much you care and appreciate her? Spoil your Mother this Mother’s Day weekend, with a delectable three-course lunch or dinner cooked to perfection. Glass of Champagne Three Course Meal Tea, Coffee and Petit Fours Lunch | Priced at £29.95 per person Dinner | Priced at £39.95 per person Mother’s Day Weekend Set Menu is served on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th of March. ‘MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY LUNCH’ Sunday 27th of March Mother’s Day is always a really important date in the diaries and it gives us a chance to spoil all the lovely ladies in our lives. Spoil your Mom this Mother’s Day, with a delectable three-course Sunday lunch and glass of bubbles. Glass of Champagne Three Course Sunday Menu Tea, Coffee and Petit Fours Priced at £39.95 per person (Children Menu Available) Mother’s Day Sunday Lunch Menu is served from 12pm - 8pm

To book please call us direct on 01189 798 805 or email us at enquiries@chalkrestaurants.com Chalk Restaurant, 31 Broad Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AU

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11/02/2022 12:23

How to eat like the Shelby family with recipes from The Official Peaky Blinders Cookbook

Gang

CULTURE

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Baked Trout with Rice Fennel & Lemon Serves 2

When gangs go fishing, it might not mean quite the same thing as casting a rod for trout. Oysters, herring, mussels, cockles, sprats and eel were the catch most working-class families would have been eating in the early 20th century, but if you had your eyes set on social climbing, serving up trout would definitely have made a statement. Total time to make: 30 mins

INGREDIENTS • 2 skin-on, filleted whole rainbow trout (each about 250g/9oz), washed and patted dry with kitchen paper • 30g cooked white rice • finely grated zest of 1 small lemon • 1 small fennel bulb, cored and finely chopped • 50g frozen peas • a handful of flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked and chopped • 5–6 dill fronds, chopped • 100ml dry white wine • a knob of butter, softened • salt and ground black pepper • steamed greens (such as samphire or green beans) and lemon wedges, to serve

METHOD 1 Preheat your oven to 190°C and line a shallow roasting tin with baking paper. Find some kitchen string. Place one half of each fish fillet, skin side down, on the lined roasting tin and season each with salt and pepper. 2 Tip the rice into a small mixing bowl and add the lemon zest, fennel, peas and both herbs. Season with salt and pepper and mix well. Divide the rice mixture between the two fillet halves, gently pressing it over the surface of the fish to coat. Place the second half of each fillet on top of the first, sandwiching the rice mixture in between. Tie your string around the fillets to secure them together, then pour the wine around the fish. 3 Brush the fish with the softened butter, season with salt and pepper and bake for 15 minutes, until the fish is cooked through. Serve with steamed greens, and with lemon wedges for squeezing over.

Scotch Eggs with Mustard Mayonnaise Serves 6

Tommy might insist on Fabergé Eggs, but we think these Scotch eggs at the bar of The Garrison will cause far less trouble. Total time to make 1 hour

INGREDIENTS • 6 large eggs • 300g good-quality pork sausages • 5 sage leaves, finely chopped • a small handful of flat-leaf parsley, leaves picked and chopped • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper • 50g plain (all-purpose) flour • 1 egg, beaten with 2 tablespoons full-fat milk • 150g cups panko breadcrumbs • vegetable oil, for deep-frying • a handful of watercress, to serve • (optional for the dip: 4 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon English mustard ¼ bunch of chives, chopped salt and ground black pepper)

METHOD 1 Make sure you get your oil good and hot to guarantee a crispy outer crumb. Bring a large pan of water to the boil and carefully lower in the eggs. Boil them for 6 minutes to soft set the yolks, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl of iced water. 2 Once the eggs are cold, peel them and set them aside. 3 Squeeze the sausage meat from

the sausage skins into a mixing bowl. Add the sage, parsley and black pepper and mix well. 4 Divide the sausage mixture into 6 equal-sized balls. Place one of the balls on a piece of baking paper, and flatten it with a damp hand. Place an egg in the middle of the sausage-meat disc and bring the meat up and around the egg. Gently press the sausage meat around the egg, making sure that the egg is wrapped. Repeat with the remaining balls of sausage meat and eggs. 5 Tip the flour into one wide, shallow bowl, the beaten egg into another and the breadcrumbs into a third. One by one, roll the coated eggs in the flour, making sure they are well covered. Then, turn them in the beaten egg, lifting them out with a fork, and finally turn them in the breadcrumbs to coat – make sure the whole egg is covered in the crumb. 6 Just before frying, preheat your oven to 150°C/130°C fan. If you have a deep-fat fryer, heat the oil to 180°C. If not, one third fill a medium saucepan with vegetable oil and place it over a medium heat. The oil is ready when the temperature reaches 180°C on a digital cooking thermometer, or when a cube of bread floats and browns within 30 seconds. 7 Deep-fry the Scotch eggs in batches of 1–3 eggs at a time, depending on the size of your pan and taking care not to overfill, for about 5–7 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy all over. Remove the cooked eggs to a plate lined with kitchen paper and keep warm in the oven while you deep-fry the remainder. To make the dip, mix the mayonnaise with the mustard and chives and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the warm Scotch eggs with the dip, and a watercress salad, if you wish. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Pea & Lettuce Soup with Feta Serves 6

Total time taken: 40 minutes

INGREDIENTS • a knob of butter • 1 leek, chopped • 1 celery stalk, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, chopped • 1 litre vegetable stock • 2 all-rounder potatoes, peeled and chopped • 1 baby gem lettuce, roughly chopped • 250g frozen peas • a small handful of mint leaves picked and chopped • 60g feta, crumbled • ¼ bunch of chives or 5–6 dill fronds, ﬁnely chopped • 3½ tablespoons single (light) cream • extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling • salt and ground black pepper • crusty bread, to serve

METHOD 1 The feta cheese sprinkled over this soup gives a salty, tangy edge to the creamy, mellow pea. For supper at Arrow House, the Shelbys are serving this hot, but you could just as well chill it and serve it as a gazpacho. Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium– low heat. Add the leek, celery and garlic and fry for 10 minutes, until softened. Pour in the vegetable stock, add the potatoes and bring the liquid to a simmer. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes, then add the lettuce, peas and mint. Continue cooking for a further 5 minutes, then blend until smooth. Taste and season the soup with salt and pepper. Divide the soup equally between the serving bowls. Sprinkle a little feta into each bowl and sprinkle the chopped herbs on top. Finish with a drizzle of cream and extra-virgin olive oil. Serve with crusty bread.

Recipes taken from The Official Peaky Blinders Cookbook by The Shelby Company, White Lion Publishing, £14.99

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FA S H I O N

TALL TALE APUJAN

Apujan presented its AW22 collection at London Fashion Week with the theme “The Ballad of a Story Keeper”. The designs are renowned for integrating patterns and knitwear techniques to illustrate themes inspired by fantasy and literature. apujan.com

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JO TUTCHENER-SHARP

Q&A L I F E C H A N G E R A brush with death inspired Jo Tutchener-Sharp to launch Scamp & Dude and give something back. We chat to the Cookham Dean local about her remarkable story By MARK KEBBLE

Q What can you tell us about the life saving brain surgery you had and how did it change your outlook on life? A It was after the sale of my PR agency that I suffered a brain haemorrhage. Exiting yourself from your own business is extremely difficult and I was under a huge amount of stress, not to mention having a newborn and a toddler at home too. I found myself in hospital with an acute headache to discover I’d suffered a brain haemorrhage and a lump on my brain. My life changed forever at this moment. Facing death had a huge effect on me personally; as well as being terrified of leaving my boys (who were then just one and three) without a mummy, I couldn’t shake this feeling that I hadn’t done enough good in my life. I’d had a great time working in PR, living it up in London, but what difference had I made and how many people had I helped along the way? I didn’t realise this was so important to me until it was almost too late. Q Why did that experience inspire you to launch Scamp & Dude in 2016? A When I came out of theatre and realised I’d been given a second chance at life, the need to help people and to make a difference was so strong that I made myself a pact that my next business would be one full of purpose and something that truly helped people. The first product I designed in the Scamp &

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FASHION • INTERVIEW

Dude collection was something that came to me in my hospital bed when I was missing my kids (I couldn’t let them see me with half my head shaved and 20 staples down one side of my head). I wished I’d been able to give them a superhero to watch over them while we were apart and imagined a cuddly toy superhero with a pocket on the back to hold a photo so they could have held me close. I used this idea as a get well goal and as soon as I was out of hospital I started looking into manufacturers and designs to create these Superhero Sleep Buddies so I could donate one to a child who loses a parent or is seriously ill themselves for every one sold. I decided I wanted a clothing range to accompany the Superhero Sleep Buddies, so created a superpower infused clothing range for kids to fill them with superpowers when they were apart from their loved ones. Each garment has a Superpower Button so kids can press it for a burst of superpowers when they need it most. Q You launched as a childrenswear brand initially – what did you want offer with your designs? A When I launched Scamp & Dude in 2016 on our website and into Liberty in London, we launched as a kids’ brand, with just two adults’ sweatshirts. Our kids’ clothing was unisex and infused with superpowers, but just as kids loved wearing our clothes, so did adults and we couldn’t keep the adults’ sweatshirts in stock. Now five years on we are 80% womenswear having seen our womenswear collection explode over the last five years. We have many new categories for women now too including dresses, bags and knitwear as well as our classic jersey loungewear, and we are launching denim jeans too.

“I MADE MYSELF A PACT THAT MY NEXT BUSINESS WOULD BE ONE FULL OF PURPOSE AND SOMETHING THAT HELPED PEOPLE” Q You also do a lot of charitable work. Why is that important to you? A When I thought my life was over, other than worrying about leaving my children without a mum, the other thing that bothered me was that I hadn’t done enough good. I knew that if I made it through my surgery, I would make sure my next job would be about helping other people, giving back and making a difference. Scamp & Dude is just that, it is powered by kindness and we’ve now donated over 3,500 Superhero Sleep Buddies and over 3,000 Super Scarves to people having a really hard time, and we’ve also donated over 300,000 worth of sweatshirts to NHS staff and patients in their care too, which makes me very happy. Q What can we expect in the S/S22 collection? A We have just launched some stunning metallic totes with neon lining, which have gone down a storm, plus a collection of maxi dresses with pockets. For summer we have new dress shapes, kaftans, skirts, blouses and accessories in a range of new

vibrant prints and colour clashes, it’s a really beautiful collection that I can’t wait to share. We are also launching Lucky Pants, which are underwear sets where for every pack sold, a pair is donated to someone in hospital who really needs a superhero to have their back. Q Where do you live and what do you love about the area? A We moved to Cookham Dean in August 2019 just before the pandemic, which was perfect timing. I hadn’t initially wanted to move out of London, but as soon as we arrived I fell in love with the area. It’s a really special place to live and we seem to have managed to move into the most fun and social street in the county! Our neighbours are all so much fun and we have become part of a really lovely community already, which we are really grateful for. I am a lot less stressed since moving to Cookham, the tightness in my chest (that I thought was normal living in London) has gone – it’s good this Cookham air! scampanddude.com

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F e e l i n g

THE HUES The new SS22 collection by Marc Cain, a brand found at Andrew Gardner in Wendover, certainly marks the new season with a burst of colour M A RC - CA I N .CO M / A N D R EWGA R D N E R .CO.U K

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Shirt jacket £359, skirt £225

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Jacket £315, top £255, trousers £215, sandals £175, bag £215

Blazer £359, shirt £169, trousers £179, sandals £235

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Blazer £359, blouse £179, trousers £179, clutch £199, sandals £235

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Jewel of BUCKS Connie Platten, of The Jewellery Workshop in Old Amersham, explains what makes them such a gem Q When did you first open your

doors and why Old Amersham?

A We opened in January 1999, choosing Old

Amersham as it was and still is a beautiful market town and a lovely area to work in. When we first started, many coach tours would stop in the Old Town and the tourists, from all over the world, would visit and could see our goldsmith at work. Q Today, what kind of experience

do you offer when clients visit?

A We have an extensive showroom, allowing

our customers to browse. Once we get a feel for what they are looking for we can offer help choosing/designing a new piece or getting pieces in for them to view. Q What types of jewellery do you stock? A We offer all types of jewellery from

silver, gold, diamonds, watches, and a lovely range of pre-owned pieces. Diamond rings are always a favourite, and we cater for all budgets.

Q How does your bespoke service work? A Every customer is different, and we treat

each commission accordingly. If a customer is not sure on a design, we get them to pick a few pieces from our showroom stock to get a feel for their style, and work from there. Sometimes we will make a piece up in silver so that they can try it on and get an exact idea of what the finished item will look like. Of course, there is also the CAD (computer aided design) option as well, but you can’t beat the feeling of actually trying something for size. Q Have you created some ‘out

there’ pieces in the past?

A We were once commissioned to

handmake a Mickey Mouse watch in yellow gold, with each link in the watch bracelet being Mickey’s face. Q What does having a workshop

on site mean you can offer?

SILVER AND COPPER CIRCLE PENDANT & CHAIN £110 MATCHING EARRINGS £35

A Customers like the idea of their precious pieces being repaired on site. We can also offer a quick turnaround.

18CT WHITE GOLD, AQUA MARINE AND DIAMOND RING £2,250

Q How tough has the pandemic

and lockdowns been for you?

A Like everyone else and for our own

sanity we tried keeping busy, preparing the workshop and showroom for when we were able to re-open. Q What are your hopes for the future? A To continue to provide the excellent

level of service. Although we have had to move with the times, we still hope to provide that personal service that our customers appreciate.

T H E J E W E L L E RY WO R K S H O P AMERSHAM 2 Market Square, Amersham HP7 0DQ 01494 434178 jewelleryworkshopamersham.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

FRESH FACE D HOW TO HYDRATE As winter comes to an end, our skin is at its dryest. We research all the best ways to keep yourself looking your best over the next few pages, from food intake to the latest products on the market.

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P BOX FRESH Absolutely meets Berkshire's Jennifer Irvine, a woman who’s built a successful business around healthy eating By PENDLE HARTE

ure Package and Balance Box are meal delivery services designed for wellbeing and weight loss, with a variety of different options. Founder Jennifer Irvine started the business 18 years ago, when there was nothing similar on the market. So you invented the idea? “Well, obviously, the concept of breakfast, lunch and dinner was around already,” she laughs. Now Pure Package is a large, slick operation, but to start with it was Jennifer in her small, at the time Notting Hill kitchen, cooking meals and delivering them herself. She’s neither a chef nor a nutritionist, just a foodie who wants to enjoy food without feeling guilty about what she eats. Now the business looks after royalty and movie stars as well as clients who have been with her from the start. “Stephen Fry lost four stone with us over lockdown,” she says. She won’t reveal any other names, but clearly he’s not alone. It’s been a successful journey. “I started from the kitchen sink and calculated that I was able to handle nine clients. After two weeks I had to put another fridge freezer in the spare bedroom, followed by a walk-in chiller in the tiny garden. After three or four months I had to move it out of the house. I used to go to bed with my husband and wait for him to go to sleep. Then I’d get in my little car and whizz around London dropping off meal packages. When I got complaints for my loud music I’d have to pretend that I’d tell off the delivery driver.”

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NUTRITION

“WHEN PEOPLE COME AND SAY THEY WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT WHAT THEY REALLY MEAN IS, THEY WANT TO BE HAPPIER” It works like this: you sign up for a package, choosing from options including weight loss, training support, vegan, longevity. You’ll have a brief consultation on Zoom with a nutritionist and decide whether to go for three, 10, 30 or 90 days. And the next thing you know, you’ll be waking up to a personalised cooler bag on your doorstep, delivered overnight, come rain or shine. “Even when the weather stops the post office from delivering, we still deliver,” says Irvine. Over 18 years the service has evolved, but many of the original clients are still with them. “Initially it was all about weight management, which is still the main thing people ask for and we have that down to a fine art,” explains Irvine. “Nutritionists are as important as chefs for us, and we always focus on essential fats and natural fresh vegetables. Each plan includes 15 or 20 different fruits and veg every day. Compare that to a normal home-cooked meal where you’ll probably have have two or three.” As Irvine's life changed, so did the packages. Soon there were pre- and post-natal options, and then training support, then pre- and post-operative. JENNIFER IRVINE

Now there’s a focus on hormone balancing, menopause and longevity. Fundamentally, a happy, healthy gut has an enormous effect on general wellbeing and mental health. Most clients come and go in phases. “Mostly women will do a plan for 90 days in the year. A month after Christmas, a month in early summer and then a month in September/October and they stay for years and years.” It can prove convenient as well as nutritious. “Sometimes people come on when their partners are away,” says Irvine, though she appreciates that there can be a tricky element to this unilateral approach to eating. “Women with families realise that sometimes they have to put themselves first. I have four daughters myself and they might all want to have waffles for breakfast – but I don’t. They understand that and can see how happy I am.” Men take a different approach, and there’s a core client base of men who rely entirely on these services. “We find that men come on to lose weight and then stay. We have one man who’s been on for 10 years.” A meal delivery four days a week can be an ideal solution, leaving people free to eat what they like on weekends. With kitchens based at New Covent Garden market, access to super fresh ingredients is easy and the business runs like a well-oiled machine with three nutritionists and 12 chefs on duty for each shift. In addition to the the personalised Pure Package, there’s a nationwide Balance Box option, which is cheaper but doesn’t cater to whims (“if you don’t like tomatoes, you’ll just have to pick them out”). Ultimately, it’s simple, says Irvine. “When people come and say they want to lose weight what they really mean is, they want to be happier. You feel energised and better when you eat well.” purepackage.com

PURE PACKAGE: our verdict

’m half-expecting it not to turn up, but at 7.30am on day one I find the promised cool bag on my doorstep. Breakfast is apple bircher muesli with Greek yoghurt, with the explanation that cinnamon has a stabilising effect on blood sugar levels. It’s a surprisingly large portion; clearly feeling hungry is not part of the deal. Snacks are encouraged: a good handful of pumpkin seeds and a pear, for instance, or strawberries with a chocolate (yes, chocolate) mousse dip. Chocolate contains serotonin, apparently, and they want us to be happy. Lunch is an enormous salad. I have to decant it into a family-sized serving bowl. Boiled eggs and asparagus come with what is likely an entire cucumber cut into painstaking seedless half moons, plus radish and tomatoes and a sour cream and chive dressing. Dinner is lemongrass pesto chicken with bok choy, green beans and flat noodles, and it’s a generous helping. I’m probably not supposed to have a glass of wine with it, but I do anyway. Instructions are clear and simple, yet minimal, which I appreciate. At £49 a day it’s clearly more than you’d spend in the supermarket, but it’s hard to overestimate the freedom of not having to shop, plan or cook for yourself. Day two’s breakfast is rye bread with peanut butter and chia jam, and again it’s quite a lot. There are no instructions as to whether coffee is allowed, which I take to mean that it is. For lunch it’s a vast plate of falafel and quinoa tabbouleh, and dinner is cottage pie, and there’s a snack of carrot batons and guacamole. By day three, I’m jumping out of bed to claim my delivery. Breakfast is muesli with yoghurt, blackberry and melon – a large helping, but probably less muesli and more fruit than I’d have prepared myself. Lunch is salmon and rice noodle salad, and dinner is nasi goreng with chicken, prawns, mange tout and romanescu. Who’s denying themself?

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y EVE HERBERT

BROW

FOCUS

LASER SHOW

perfection B O B B I B R OW N

Introducing The Cherrywood Clinic

The new Micro Brow pencil is ultra precise, with 24-hour, brow-true colour. Designed to effortlessly draw hair-like strokes to pinpoint sparse spots, extend tails, and add detailed definition, it blends emollient oils and waxes for a creamy glide and lasting, waterproof, humidity- and sweatresistant wear. £23.50 bobbibrown.co.uk

Colour ways H E A D M A ST E R S

Headmasters is offering 50% off all colour services from 5 February to 5 March. To give your hair a luxury look, Colour Ambassador Sian Quinn recommends the new L’Oreal Professional Metal Detox treatment, which will help to remove build-up caused by minerals and copper in hard water. The in-salon treatment makes hair healthier, prevents breakage and helps colour last longer. headmasters.com

SCANDI SCENTS M AYA N I J E

Independent perfumer Maya Nije’s gender neutral collection is inspired by her Scandinavian upbringing and west African heritage. From the sweet Vanilj to the smoky Tobak, each evocative fragrance is inspired by a family photo from the 1970s. £85; libertylondon.com

EDITOR’S PICK

eaturing new premises in Amersham, The Cherrywood Clinic specialises in laser aesthetic treatments and brings professional standards with a personal, bespoke approach. They offer a wide range of laser treatments: hair removal, thread vein removal, skin tightening, rosacea treatment, pigmented lesion removal, and fungal nail treatment. They are the longest running specialist laser aesthetics clinic in the UK, having seen their first clients in 1998. Their original lasers were among the first aesthetics lasers in the country, and they still use the same manufacturer, Candela, that they did when they first opened. Although the technology has progressed significantly since then, Candela remain the Gold Standard. As a consequence of the wealth of experience they bring to laser aesthetics, they’re experts on all the treatments they offer and conditions they help to manage, With a new column, each month they’ll take the opportunity to discuss some of the most common of them, how best to manage them, and where laser treatment might – or indeed, might not – be suitable to help. CHERRYWOOD CLINIC Email rachel@cherrywoodclinic.co.uk or call 07491 147944 for a free-of-charge, noobligation consultation

cherrywoodclinic.co.uk

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5 star rated skin clinic

Discover Beauty Within Step into the CrownWood MediSpa

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FACIAL REJUVENATION THERAPIES with NeoStrata & Obaji professional peels and deluxe facials EXPERT LASER SKIN TREATMENTS for acne, scarring, skin tightening, rosacea, thread veins, sun damage, age spots, tattoo & hair removal STUNNING FACIAL AESTHETICS WITH MEDICAL DOCTORS with wrinkle reduction, fillers, Profhilo treatment or Aptos thread lift DERMATOLOGY WITH A MEDICAL DOCTOR for fungal infection removal, skin cancer screening, hair loss diagnosis, eczema, warts, skin growths and acne

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*Terms and conditions apply.

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For testimonials and on-demand masterclasses to care for your brain in difficult circumstances go to gabrielabocanete.com/services

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18/02/2022 11:22

23/02/2022 12:19

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Smile WIDE

How you can learn about lifechanging dental implants at CrownWood Dental & MediSpa

re you looking to replace missing or damaged teeth? Perhaps you’re looking for a permanent solution to uncomfortable or illfitting dentures, or would like to know more about your teeth replacement options. Maybe you have considered dental implants already, but would like to meet an expert practitioner to better understand what is involved. For most people it’s all about wanting to smile, speak and socialise again with confidence! With World Oral Health Day being celebrated this month, CrownWood Dental & MediSpa is delighted to be hosting a special Dental Implant Open Day on 21 March from 9am–5pm. Patients can secure a 30-minute ‘mini consultation’ with one of their highly experienced Implantologists, Dr Emanuele Clozza and Dr Aman Ruprah, by booking their place in advance. At the event, there’s the opportunity to meet and discuss the many benefits of dental implants and the life-changing results that can be achieved. ‘On the day’ benefits also include a free CBCT Scan* (worth £99 per arch) with practice members saving at least £170 on top. As with all implant treatments at CrownWood, 0% finance and other schemes are available (subject to status) so that patients can spread the cost of treatment with affordable monthly payments.

advanced diagnostic process undertaken at CrownWood. An implant procedure usually requires a local anaesthetic and sometimes IV sedation if the patient is nervous. Q And who can have a dental

implant treatment?

A As Dr Clozza says: “Dental Implants XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Q So what is a dental implant? A Dr Clozza explains: “A dental implant

is a small, screw shaped replacement for the missing tooth’s root. It’s anchored down into the jawbone and then supports a new crown or bridge or secures a denture into place. Made from titanium, they tend to be well tolerated by bone tissue, which should ‘fuse’ with the implant making the new tooth extremely stable – a safe, long-term solution.” The process of inserting dental implants is a highly skilled procedure and qualified dentists will have undergone rigorous, specialist training. Firstly, your dentist would need to sort out any sign of decay or gum disease. X-rays and a CT scan are taken to assess the suitability of bone quality and help plan treatment. This is part of the

are suitable for most adults with good general health. They can only be used once the jawbone has stopped growing and so generally are not used with younger patients. Habits such as heavy drinking or smoking can increase the number of problems associated with initial healing and thereafter may be bad for the longterm health of gum and bone surrounding each implant. However, each case is different and if patients do have any medical problems, then it is important to speak to your doctor or dentist prior to starting any treatment.” C R OW N WO O D D E N TA L & M E D I S PA To book an initial consultation on Monday 21 March, speak to the Patient Care Co-Ordinator Lisa at CrownWood, on 01344 300 417 or 07765 333 768 or email pc@crownwooddental.co.uk (*for all patients booking a full implant consultation on the day)

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS NOTES By MARK KEBBLE

introducing new machines for those who work out solo and interesting timetables for those who go ga-ga for group fitness classes. At the time of writing, the government are considering lifting all Covid-19 restrictions, but even when Omicron was sweeping the land, the numbers I witnessed at the gym were incredible. And it’s little surprise. For a start, you are not

“I WAS BACK IN MY GYM BEFORE YOU COULD SAY HIIT”

PEOPLE ARE DIVING BACK INTO THE GYM

FIGHTING FIT In the grip of a pandemic, the future of gyms seemed bleak – but 2022 is looking much healthier

o, how did you stay fit during lockdowns? Like most, I discovered the joy of a simple walk, but it wasn’t long before I needed something that could match the testosterone boost of a satisfying gym session. Soon enough, I was sweating over the construction of a stationary bike (exercise in itself), building up my kettlebell collection, and gleefully accepting a neighbour’s offer of a bench press that was no longer required (clearly, the walks were enough). It didn’t take long, though, for the enthusiasm to die off. The exercise bike started to wobble, swinging kettlebells in the living room wasn’t well received when I accidentally dropped one (smashing a plug socket in the process), and the bench press kind of got in the way of the TV. I was swiftly consigned to our rickety garage – freezing

in the winter, boiling in the summer – to join an assorted array of insects as I worked out. Little surprise, then, that as soon as gyms reopened, I was back in mine before you could say HIIT. I know several gym owners and all have had an horrendous time over the last two years keeping their businesses afloat, and even as restrictions eased, many were not sure if their membership numbers would return to pre-pandemic levels. And I had to agree – with the rise of online exercise classes and the cult of Joe Wicks, surely many would decide they’d rather work out at home. And then the fitness trends for 2022 were announced and clearly I was wrong. Among all the fitness fads, gyms are being talked up once again as if they are a brand new concept. In a way, it does feel like that as gyms across the county have taken the opportunity to have a refurb and refresh,

responsible for a broken machine. The choice of equipment certainly beats the one or two things at home you managed to snag for your birthday or Christmas. Then there’s the fact there are trained professionals on hand to make sure you are working out in a way that won’t put your back out. Also, only a select few can afford to have a swimming pool installed at home. The social aspect, too, is often overlooked at gyms. At mine, you see the same crowd who clearly earmark 7am as their optimum time for working out. Being able to enjoy a coffee or a cooked breakfast afterwards in a buzzy, post-exercise café area is also one of life’s simple pleasures. As much as I bonded with those insects, I for one am delighted that gyms are back with a vengeance.

YOU CAN'T DO THIS IN YOUR LIVING ROOM

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s u o i r u x Lu

FA B R I C S & CO LO U R S

The new Duette® collection by Luxaflex®

Boasting an exciting new selection of fabric colours and designs for every window. Duette® Shades create a feeling of pure comfort in the home with perfectly diffused light, extraordinary energy-efficiency, and the latest smart home control. Find a showroom at luxaflex.co.uk

Luxaflex® PowerView® smart blinds works with

Apple HomeKit

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WA L L S D O TA L K KOUBOU INTERIORS

inside this section:

This month we introduce Gilly Craft, founder of Koubou Interiors, as a new guest columnist. She starts by looking at how we can use wallpaper and wallcoverings to really make your home design sing. p71

I N T E R I O R S N E W S : T H E L AT E S T L AU N C H E S p 6 9 D I S C OV E R M A R LOW ’ S N E W P OT T E RY C R A Z E p74 I N S I D E G R AY S O N P E R R Y ’ S H O U S E F O R E S S E X p 8 0 S P R I N G I S H E R E : P R E PA R E YO U R GA R D E N p 9 7 THE BEST NEW KITCHEN TRENDS p101

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Handmade in

Buckinghamshire with a 10 year guarantee

Comfort with Integrity

™

We work with farmers to source nature’s finest materials, handcrafting beautifully stylish beds and supremely comfortable mattresses that help enhance your sleep, health and well-being. As pioneers of sustainable and ethical bed making, we believe sleep shouldn’t cost the Earth.

Visit our Showroom and design a bed that’s just right for you: Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm | Friday to Saturday 9am to 4pm Longwick Road | Princes Risborough | Buckinghamshire HP27 9RS

T: 01844 348 240 | hypnosbeds.com Proud to be Carbon Neutral | Handmade in Britain and 100% recyclable

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H O M E | NEWS

CREATIVE

R E V I E W PRETTY THING

Updates from the industry Compiled by P E N D L E H A R T E

HUBSCH

Hubsch's creative team in Denmark designs quality products, creating a common thread throughout the collections, while keeping a finger firmly on the pulse of the zeitgeist. hubsch-interior.com

IN THE ROUND ERCOL

Ercol's Siena breakfast table in oak is ideal for smaller spaces. Weighted for stability it has beautiful flowing form into the base and comes in a smooth natural finish. £825 ercol.com

ART MARKET

SOFT TOUCH

A F F O R D A B L E A R T FA I R

BEDFOLK

Find the perfect artwork for your home at Affordable Art Fair. See live art displays, shop curated collections and toast your purchase with a delicious cocktail. Pictured is Angelita, archival photography print, by Lexi Laine £450, La Belle Epoch. Book in advance at affordableartfair.com

Not only does Bedfolk make the softest linen sheets in the most beautiful muted shades, but their hotelquality bathrobes are cosy, thick and even softer than the sheets. bedfolk.com

T O M AT O FA N S MALIN + GOETZ

Malin + Goetz's popular tomato candle is back, stocked exclusively at Selfridges. Fill your room with scents of freshly cut vines and garden greens, £46 selfridges.com

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H O M E | DESIGN

Wall to wall design Wallpapers and wallcoverings are very much back in vogue - the choice is vast both in pattern and texture. Here’s what to look for By G I L LY C R A F T

hoosing the right type of wallpaper or wallcovering is key to a good result. Wallpapers are generally best in areas where the traffic is minimal. It’s good for accent walls, but I wouldn’t suggest these papers for a bathroom or kitchen. There are some really beautiful hand-printed papers out there that tend to be on the pricier side. If you wish, you can choose a pattern or have a paper custom printed to your or your designer’s design. A panoramique will give your room the complete wow factor. It goes without saying that these papers

ARTE SHOW HOW YOU CAN CREATE A REAL IMPACT WITH A PANORAMIQUE

AN EXAMPLE OF A WALLCOVERING FROM ARTE

Wallpapers are generally best in areas where the traffic is minimal do need a good installer as matching the pattern is very important. My absolute favourite, and the treatment I recommend the most to my clients, is fabric backed vinyl wallcovering. This wallcovering can be used in both commercial and residential projects and is moisture resistant, durable, washable, sustainable, light and colourfast, flame retardant and strippable. It is the best wallcovering to choose for high traffic areas, kitchens and bathrooms. It can be challenging to install, but is well worth it. There is an endless choice in texture, colour and design. What other wall treatments are there? The answer to that is how long is a piece of string! There are acoustic wallcoverings, which are very beautiful, tactile and do a

very good job of deadening noise. If you have a good budget, then consider textile wallcovering, but it is very delicate and easily marked. There are very good faux silk wallcoverings and it is very hard to tell the difference just by looking at it. Cork or wood veneers are lovely, but again, can be at the top of the budget spectrum. What do you need to consider when choosing the colour, texture and finish of your wallcovering? If you have commissioned an interior designer to work with, they will bring many options to you to choose from. If you are doing the choosing, you must think about how the light is in the space at any point of the day and don’t be afraid of bold colour or pattern, even in a small space. Downstairs cloakrooms are the place to really go to town with bold pattern on all of the walls. Get several samples and pin them to the walls. KO U B O U I N T E R I O R S Gilly Craft is the founder of Koubou Interiors. For more advice and inspiration, call 01344 779 323 or visit koubouinteriors.co.uk

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Wish you had better broadband? Say hello to the endless possibilities of 4K streaming, next-gen gaming and crystal clear video calls. Register online and be one of the first to join our 10,000 Mbps Full Fibre broadband network in Buckinghamshire.

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FINDERS

KEEPERS The founder of a unique new pottery shop in Marlow writes about her desire to share her passion with all comers By TA M R A B O OT H

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H O M E | INSPIRATION

TAMRA BOOTH

ottery is my passion. I went to art college where I first discovered my love of clay; however at that time, I just couldn't see how to make a career out of my love affair with pottery. So I went into property, but a few years ago I started re-evaluating things and decided I needed to reawaken some passion in my life and revisited my first love – ceramics! I launched Keeeps for a number of reasons, but primarily to help British potters create sustainable careers and to keep pottery skills alive. My vision was to provide a space for potters, as well as

THE MARLOW POP-UP SHOP

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encouraging novices to learn a skill and embrace the magical feeling of potting. I also wanted to make it easier to find genuinely authentic and stylish pottery. We set out to create a stylish online hub where quality over quantity was key and the whole buying and browsing process was relaxing and enjoyable. Not everyone has the time or energy to trawl the internet to find the perfect mug or a gorgeous handmade gift, so Keeeps does this all for you. Keeeps offers curated, stand-out pottery pieces that you, your friends and family will love, not only for their stunning design, but also in the knowledge they are handmade in the UK. My genius stepson came up with the name Keeeps and it really stuck. As a bit of a neat freak, I love having a place for things in my home so when I was initially creating the brand, I experimented with a couple of different names, one of which was ‘Holders’. With a focus on selling handmade, functional and sustainable products, the idea was that these items were objects that you could keep forever. The family thought that ‘Holders’ didn't quite fit and my stepson suggested ‘Keeps’, as in high quality, handmade, stylish items that are for keeps. We added an extra ‘e’ to give us a point of difference and of course to obtain a website address that no-one else had! The team and I travel around the UK to hand-pick pottery crafted by real

working, talented British potters. Our potters are both emerging designers as well as established ceramicists. We select and test out pieces we believe our customers will love and stock them on our website. We buy the products from the potter and pay for them upfront, then we do all the marketing and ship them to the customer. For the stores, we will be promoting local potters and talent and many of these will also be teaching our studio classes. We are big promoters of nurturing and furthering local talent. It is important to Keeeps that our range also supports people, business and traditional skills around the UK. I think for a while people have been wanting to get back to basics and learn traditional crafts whether that be baking, gardening, sewing or making pots! Having been stuck inside for a year or so, many people are now more inclined to spend their hard-earned cash on themselves, rather than on “stuff ”. This has been even more evident since the pandemic as people have become far more aware of self-care and mindfulness, as well as the importance of supporting their local communities. We were a business created in lockdown, which allowed us to initially build the brand and presence online. As a pottery brand, however, we are big believers that handmade pottery is something that needs to be held in person to fully appreciate why it is so much better than mass-produced, and therefore for Keeeps it was important that the brand was omnichannel to cater for different customers’ needs.

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KITCHEN AND INTERIORS STUDIO IN BEACONSFIELD Your new Schmidt showroom has just opened. This is the ideal opportunity to breathe life into all your home interior projects, from kitchens to living rooms, bathrooms and wardrobes. For more than 60 years, Schmidt’s solutions have been the beating heart of countless home interiors. Visit our design studio in Beaconsfield, the latest addition to our worldwide network of over 1000 studios. NEW YEAR OFFER! PLACE AN ORDER BY MARCH 31st TO RECEIVE A FREE QUOOKER TAP. BOOK A CONSULTATION TODAY AND QUOTE “QUOOKER22”. T&Cs APPLY. SCHMIDT BEACONSFIELD 8 Burkes Parade, Station Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks. HP9 1NN Tel: 01494 611700 info@schmidt-beaconsfield.com

> www.homedesign.schmidt

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H O M E | INSPIRATION

Keeeps is about community, art, individuality and sustainability Having tested the high street with a pop-up, we felt confident to take the plunge by opening a permanent shop on Marlow high street. What we love about Marlow, and other market towns, is the variety of shops on the high street. There are many independent, local businesses that bring the high street to life. It is a vibrant and social community which we are so excited to be a part of. Without a doubt, the biggest challenge has been dealing with a Listed building. We have made sure The White House [which will house Keeeps] has been carefully and sympathetically renovated. We have met with lots of our local potters and sourced some beautiful pottery. We are currently set to open in late February 2022 so please come in and say hi and have a look, everyone is welcome! Our booking app will also be ready to check out the first batch of pottery classes very soon, with classes starting in March 2022. In the meantime, customers can email us at marlow@keeeps.co.uk if they are interested in taking a pottery class. Our number one goal is to have 15-20 stores open in the next 5-10 years. Despite what the media have been saying

KEEEPS WILL HOST POTTERY CLASSES

for years, I firmly believe that the high street is not dead, it simply needs to adapt. We believe we can breathe new life into the high street by connecting with the community. The social side that comes from a high street is something that just cannot be experienced online. Britain has beautiful high streets and town centres, with stunning architecture. We will be looking for places with a good community feel, that have individuality and differentiation, whether that be from a healthy mix of interesting retailers or nearby amenities like the river or a great park. Keeeps is about community, art, food, individuality, sustainability and interiors – and a brand that we very much hope is here to stay. keeeps.co.uk B SLO T E LY. A BA SO UL TU E LY m aLgOaNzD i nOeNs

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oConcept, a Danish furniture brand, elevates home interiors with iconic designs created by the world’s most respected designers. From stunning sofas and armchairs to modular storage units and beautiful accessories, they have crafted an incredible collection of home furniture oozing with creativity and ingenuity. Beautifully finished in exquisite Danish craftsmanship, as you’d expect from a luxury retailer. It’s not just the collection that distinguishes BoConcept from the competition; it’s also the truly personalised service they provide. Every customer receives a free comprehensive interior design service, whether at home, virtually, or in-store, for a small room update or a large whole-home transformation. Their interior designers collaborate with you to incorporate decor ideas, home accessories, and other elements to create a one-of-akind look for your home. Perhaps you want to create a Nordic mood in the dining room with Scandinavian style sideboards, elegant dining tables and dining chairs, or a luxury hotel vibe in your living room with sofas, recliner armchairs, and daybeds in leather, velvet, or your preferred fabric. How can this level of customisation be possible? BoConcept’s furniture can be customised exactly to your needs and tastes to give you a truly personalised home, and they are renowned for their modularity, functionality, and uncompromising quality – all expressed with effortless style. Because material is everything, they offer over 120 different fabrics and materials to choose from, including aniline leather, felt, velvet, oak, walnut, chrome, steel, and many more. Together with you, they can combine these materials and surfaces to create bespoke combinations that are tailored to

N O R D I C M

How Danish design leader BoConcept can create a bespoke solution for your home 78

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H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

home. A modern Nordic interior, with its muted colours and minimalistic designs, is both calming and homely while also grand and impressive. This foundation palette will assist you in achieving an authentic Scandinavian base to which you can add pops of your own personal style. It also looks great with blonde oak, stony ceramics, and cement accents. Consider this palette to be a deep exhalation. A midsummer sunset. Shady sand. Chai latte. Artisan pottery. Everything about it is designed to soothe and calm.

QUIET LUXURY

your tastes and perfectly complement your personality. Here are a few timeless trends from BoConcept that will help inspire your design journey.

CALMING NEUTRALS This Scandinavian expression adds a natural and warm touch to a design or space. The colours chosen for Scandi fans depart from the traditional Nordic base of whites and near-whites in favour of warmer, creamier hues. There’s a reason why so many people all over the world yearn for an authentic Scandinavian aesthetic in their

With its deep, saturated earthy tones and subtle brown, blue, and blacks, this contemporary expression adds a vibrant city sophistication to a design or space. This colour scheme is a tribute to the world’s great cities. Those in which you live and those in which you yearn. The Quiet Luxury palette is, indeed, a metropolis of inspiration. It comes with deep, saturated earthy tones – an amplified response to our desire for the natural. Its black base has now veered into subtly brown and blue territory as well. Dark oaks, natural leathers, and plush fabrics will add a moody touch. With spring on the way, now is a great time to find a home for all of those miscellaneous items we all accumulate. Storage can be unique, expressive, and inventive, giving you a great opportunity to express yourself. BoConcept takes pride in their ability to customise their storage systems to you and your space. They can create anything from a simple shelving system to a unique and personalised combination by combining

People all over the world yearn for an authentic Scandinavian aesthetic different inserts, fronts, and materials. The versatility of BoConcept’s wall systems allows them to meet any storage requirement in any room. In their factory in Denmark, they design and manufacture storage systems out of the finest materials. In your custom solution, their craftsman combine glass, veneer, oak, walnut, and lacquered surfaces. With so many different materials, colours, inserts, doors, drawers, and other features to choose from, customising the perfect storage unit for you can be difficult. In fact, figuring out how to make the ideal furniture solution can be difficult. That is why all BoConcept stores have professional interior designers on hand to assist you in measuring, selecting, and designing. The beautiful shops have everything you need and more. There is a large selection of Danish-designed sofas, chairs, tables, beds, storage solutions, and accessories available, as well as professional interior design advice. Shop in-store at BoConcept Battersea Reach, Harrods, Finchley Road, Notting Hill, Tottenham Court Road, Guildford, Bentalls Kingston, Westfield London and Fenwick Brent Cross. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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A R T

Absolutely admires Grayson Perry’s concept house in Essex

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H O M E | ARCHITECTURE

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House for Essex is a daring and provocative collaboration between FAT Architecture and Grayson Perr y. The house, which is situated in Wrabness close to the Essex coast, is an extraordinary work of architecture and art, which provides a setting for a number of specially commissioned works by Grayson Perry exploring the unique qualities of Essex. A House For Essex was conceived as a landmark in the tradition of wayside and pilgrimage chapels. Like a pilgrimage chapel, the house is dedicated to a saint – in this case a secular one by the name of Julie Cope – and gives architectural expression to her life. The design relates to a number of influences including Stave churches, arts and crafts houses, and English baroque architecture. Charles Holland of FAT Architecture has described the building as "a radical statement about architecture and its capacity for narrative and communication". The design embraces decoration, ornament and symbolism in order to tell a

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H O M E | ARCHITECTURE

It was a golden chance to realise a longheld ambition to build a secular chapel

RIGHT: GRAYSON PERRY WITH CHARLES HOLLAND OF FAT

rich and complex story. Formally, it is like a Russian doll, a series of archetypal house shapes that step up in scale as the building descends the hill. The interior features a number of Grayson Perry’s handmade ceramic pots and tapestries depicting the fictional life of Julie, described by the artist as an ‘Essex Everywoman’. Visitors to the house pass through a series of unfolding spaces before entering the chapel, concealed behind two ‘hidden’ doors. The chapel itself is organised around a striking decorative object – part medieval rood screen, part baroque facade – that frames a ceramic statue of Julie herself. Upstairs the two bedrooms – with views to east and west – have walk-through cupboards that lead to internal balconies overlooking the chapel space. The exterior, clad in more than 1,900 green and white ceramic tiles, are cast from originals made by Perry, depicting Julie as mother and icon, along with symbols

associated with her life. She appears again, on the roof in the manner of a giant weather vane in addition to a beautifully cast ceramic chimney pot, wheel sculpture and beacon. Grayson Perry says: “When Living Architecture offered me the opportunity to collaborate with FAT it was a golden chance to realise a long-held ambition to build a secular chapel. Charles Holland and I batted ideas back and forth until a bonkers yet dignified design emerged glistening. The resulting building is a total art work, a fiction in which you can live, a digital age shrine and a homage to Charles’ and my home county. I hope the people who stay in the House for Essex find it playful yet monumental, cosy and maybe slightly disturbing. It is a three-dimensional musing on religion, local history, feminism, happiness and death.” Charles Holland of FAT adds: “The house is a striking object in its setting, but one that also has formal resonance. It is like a richly encrusted and highly decorated barn, with a healthy dose of Essex bling thrown in. Ultimately, it is a built story with something of the qualities of a fairytale and you come across it as an unlikely, somewhat fantastic surprise. Like Grayson, I was born and brought up in Essex, so the house is both fiction and autobiography.” A House for Essex is available to rent on a short-term holiday basis, and can sleep up to four people in two bedrooms. Slots are allocated by public ballot. living-architecture.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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H O M E | TREND BEAUMONDE Flora terrarium gold pendant lamp, £97 beaumonde.co.uk

COX & COX Two textured standing planters antique bronze, £145 coxandcox.co.uk

ANTON STUDIO Set of two bronze wine glasses, £26 notjustjugs.com

DOWSING & REYNOLDS Connaught ceiling light, £539.99 dowsingandreynolds.com

BEAUMONDE LED cordless table light, £145 beaumonde.co.uk

MINT & MAY Mini gold round poppy picture frame, £25 mintandmay.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

AUDENZA Gold helix side table, £234 audenza.com

FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY

BOBBI BECK Mystica occult pattern wallpaper gold, £75 bobbibeck.com

ICONIC LIGHTS George monkey table lamp in metallic gold, £52 iconiclights.co.uk

M E TA L GURU

Versailles gold bedside table, £445 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Metallics for every room

VON HAUS Metallic cowhide pouffe, £119 vonhaus.com

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

FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY Versailles gold gilt dressing table, £1125 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

ARLEY HOUSE Gold linen blind, £85 arleyhouse.com

FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY Brass bronze drum pendant light, £95 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

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DOWSING & REYNOLDS Triple dimmer switch in copper gold, £96.99 dowsingandreynolds.com

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CURATED COLLECTIONS FOR STYLISH HOMES Unleash your inner creativity with our striking selection of Ca’ Pietra statement stone & designer tiles Benefit from our wealth of design experience as tile specialists at our boutique one-stop destination

The Old Firestation, 67 High Street, Ascot SL5 7HP | 01344 620211

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H O M E | TREND

MAXWELL WILLIAMS Medina Ceramic Square tile, £2.50, kitchencraft .co.uk

HYPERION TILES Long Island marble tumbled finish tile, from £76 per sq m (different sizes available) by Ca’ Pietra, hyperiontiles.co.uk

HYPERION TILES Atlantis Scallop Porcelain Grey tiles, £10.90 per sheet (29.3 x 27.4 x 0.6cm), by Ca’ Pietra hyperiontiles.co.uk

TILE MOUNTAIN Clay Blossom floor tile, £22.99, tilemountain.co.uk

SQ UAR E DA N C E All the best tiles for walls and floors By P E N D L E H A R T E

TILE MOUNTAIN Victoriana Oxford Wall and Floor tile, £25.99, tilemountain.co.uk

WALLS AND FLOORS Terrazzo Hexagon Nevada Pink Porcelain tile, £38.95 wallsandfloors.co.uk

PORCELAIN SUPERSTORE Arthouse Leaf Porcelain tile, £48.33, porcelainsuperstore.co.uk

WALLS AND FLOORS Chatham Rose Brick tile, £39.95 wallsandfloors.co.uk

HYPERION TILES

THE LONDON TILE CO

New Unicorn ceramic wall tiles, £65 per sq m (25 in a box, 40 x 10cm each) by Ca’ Pietra hyperiontiles.co.uk

Design Pattern C wall/floor tile londontile.co.uk

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H O M E | TREND BJORN WIINBLAD Eva vase pink, £50 black-by-design.co.uk

HUBSCH Green glass vase, £49 vivalagoon.com

ROSE & GREY Face vase, £25 roseandgrey.co.uk

ROSE & GREY Terracotta vase with handles, £35 roseandgrey.co.uk

MONDAY Baariq vase, £42 mondayonline.co.uk

ANNABEL JAMES Circular test tube vase, £79.95 annabeljames.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

JONATHAN ADLER Versailles puzzles vase, £310 sweetpeaandwillow.com

STEM SUBJECT The loveliest vases for the prettiest bouquets

NISI LIVING Aqua and amber belt vase, £45 nisiliving.co.uk

CULT FURNITURE Brown glass vase, £30 cultfurniture.com

By P E N D L E H A R T E THE HAPPY BLOSSOMS Droplet vase in sunrise, £16 thehappyblossoms.com

NUDE GLASS Mini magnolia rock and pop vase, £39 nudeglass.com

DARTINGTON CRYSTAL Bloom wide windflower vase, £39 dartington.co.uk

HABULOUS Handmade ceramic dome vase, £22 habulous.co.uk

BEAUMONDE Yellow tide glass vase, £42.90 beaumonde.co.uk

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it’s time to put compromise to bed

7 out of 10 people are sleeping on the wrong mattress Too many of us are making do with a mattress that’s not suited to our unique sleep needs. At Silentnight we can match you to a mattress that’s perfect for you. In fact, from beds to bedding, we have sleep solutions for the whole family.

discover solutions for every sleeper silentnight.co.uk find us @silentnightbeds

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H O M E | PARTNERSHIP < Quince – Neptune’s refreshing new paint colour Inspired by the fruit itself, it is an uplifting citrus shade, which blends fresh green hues and a warming red undertone.

Aldwych wardrobe This wardrobe joins Neptune’s existing family of Aldwych bedroom pieces - a clean-lined and understated collection.

F L

With the change in seasons fast approaching, we are delighted to share a few of Neptune’s spring pieces from their new collection launching in March Words C A S PA R DAV I D

<< Wardley dining chairs in a new Warm Black finish Contrasting with the light of spring, Neptune’s Windsor-inspired Wardley chair now comes in a black finish with a hint of warmth to it. < Quince botanical illustrations To complement their new SS22 shade, the new additions to Neptune’s wall art collection feature the fruit itself.

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Warming your home is our Passion

We provide a full service offer, from the site survey, consultancy, 3D modelling, installation and after sales care. Our experienced team listen to your requirements, provide knowledgeable advice and a complete interior design solution that bring dreams to life. Our engineers are qualified to supply and fit any solid fuel and electric appliance from traditional free standing stoves to highly contemporary inset and free standing fires, offering a bespoke service to meet your requirements. We have built our reputation on honesty and integrity, always offering clear advice to ensure you get the right solution for your home and lifestyle.

Whatever your project, call us or visit our showroom

Marlow Stoves 01628 290 142 info@marlowsstoves.co.uk marlowstoves.co.uk

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H O M E | PROMOTION

Everyone needs a bit of TLC – temperature, light and comfort

S L E E P S C I E N C E Finding the right sleep solutions for better sleep Words CA S PA R DAV I D

ove over, complicated yoga poses and green smoothies for breakfast. A good night’s sleep is rapidly becoming the biggest wellness goal. But if it’s not just about closing your eyes and hoping for the best, what actually goes into eight hours of peaceful shut eye? Going to bed and getting up at the same time each day (weekends too) helps you to get into a regular sleep pattern, setting your internal body clock. Ideally, you should start to wind down an hour before going to bed and set the scene for a restful night’s sleep by dimming the lights and relaxing your body. “When we talk about what creates a good night’s sleep, we say that everyone

needs a bit of TLC – temperature, light and comfort,” says Silentnight’s sleep expert, Hannah Shore. “Temperature is very important: we need to cool down our core temperature to encourage the release of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Light impacts us too; use of screens and phones at night discourage melatonin and keep us pumped with cortisone, try to resist the urge to scroll through social media and instead do something relaxing like reading or listen to some soothing music.” Then there’s comfort – that’s what Silentnight really focuses on as a sleep brand. Silentnight have delved deep into spine alignment, pressure points on a mattress and even the microclimate created under a duvet, giving them a complete understanding of what mattresses and bedding work for what kind of person and why. This is key because it turns out we need more support on this than you might think. “Our research found that when given the choice, 68% of people would choose the wrong firmness for their body shape,” says Shore. Make sure you are choosing the right mattress firmness for your body type: softer mattresses are more suitable to smaller, lighter people, while those with a larger body type will feel more supported with a firmer mattress. Then look at the comfort layer and choose a mattress with a layer of breathable fibres if you tend to overheat in the night. Silentnight offers a 60 night comfort exchange, to give you a few weeks to settle into your mattress and make sure it’s the right one for you. Silentnight, the UK’s most trusted sleep brand, have been creating mattresses for over 75 years and are on a mission to improve the nation’s rest. They have embraced the science of sleep, combining research with rigorous testing to create total sleep solutions to suit every type of sleeper. @silentnightbeds #MySilentNight silentnight.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Outdoor Furniture for Living Clean lines with on-trend colour fabrics, and quality construction with a host of features. Mambo is the perfect addition to our current collections that allows customers to make the very best of every inch of their home and garden. Mambo comprises three collections in Santorini, Del Mar and Cove with each offering unique outdoor living experiences as flexible as they are good looking.

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UV resistant fabric

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Aluminium rust proof frames

•

5 year Warranty

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10mm & 6mm tempered glass

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Quick dry foam

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All weather furniture

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CE certified fire pits

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Water resistant PU coated fabrics

reading-bedding.co.uk | 0118 986 1212 10-14 Cressingham Rd, Reading RG2 7JE

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Department Store

La Rochelle Square Modular Sofa With Firepit Casual Dining Table & Two Benches - Cobble Eco

Keep your Party going from Day into Night with our Firepit Table set Feeling the chill? Simply remove the ceramic insert, add the glass fire shield and light the gas - a great way to keep your guests warm. Full collection available at Daniel of Windsor, shop in-store & online: www.danielstores.co.uk

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HOME • GARDENS

IN THE SHADE

G R E A T O U T D O O R S NOW'S THE TIME TO PREPARE YOUR GARDEN

READING BEDDING

Clean lines with on-trend colour fabrics, and quality construction with a host of features. Mambo is the perfect addition to Reading Bedding's current collections, allowing you to make the most of your garden. reading-bedding.co.uk

INDOORS OUT BRIDGMAN

Get ahead of this trend by creating your own outdoor living room with upholstered garden furniture that brings the comfort and style of the indoors, outside. bridgman.co.uk

FIRE UP

M A R L OW S T OV E S

The story of RB73 is a story of passion for fire, but also of beautiful and timeless products. The fires have glass fronted doors so you do not suffer from smoke, ash or sparks on the terrace. marlowstoves.co.uk

PLANT AN IDEA I O TA G A R D E N

Available in 6 sizes, the Kyoto planter is ideal for specimen trees and shrubs in any contemporary setting. Made from a very strong, durable yet lightweight material, the neutral Anthracite colour makes it particularly versatile. From £160 iotagarden.com

LO U N G E LOV E DA N I E L

The ultimate restful retreat, Daniel's new single cocoon, with its eyecatching open mesh rattan, will easily lure you outdoors. £349 danielstores.co.uk

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Award winning Interior Architecture and Design

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Design with your needs in mind Complete service from design to completion

how to find us Moss End Garden Village, Maidenhead Road, Warfield, Bracknell, RG42 6EJ call us 01344 779 323 website www.koubouinteriors.co.uk email info@koubouinteriors.co.uk

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H O M E | GARDEN

Space age

Malvern Garden Buildings show how you can create the perfect work/life balance at home

S A garden building adds to your property’s value and is away from all the distractions of the house

ince the shift to home working over two years ago, 56% of us report increased levels of happiness. This newfound flexibility has allowed many of us to spend more time with families and find time for exercise. However, remote working has its drawbacks. Nearly one in three of us put in more hours and feel under pressure to be always available. Who knows whether there will ever be a return to the pre-pandemic way of working? Some companies have decided to go fully remote. Others are adopting a more hybrid approach. The next big experiment is the 4-day working week trial. Whether you’re craving a return to the office as it was, or you have no intention of giving up remote work privileges, a garden office is proving to be a very popular choice. Jason Preece, general manager of Malvern Garden Buildings, says sales of garden offices have tripled: “Companies spend huge amounts bringing nature into the office to improve productivity and creativity, but what’s better than putting your office into nature? A garden building adds to your property’s value and is away from all the distractions of the house.” As you work more from home, are you struggling to keep a healthy work/life balance? We

all know we should set boundaries for the good of our health, but most of us worry we’ll look less committed. Yet when you establish boundaries, your worth rises. When you value yourself and your own time, your company will follow suit. Set yourself up for success with a dedicated garden workspace to give you the mental and physical separation between work and home life you deserve. The remote work revolution means we have more control than ever before over our work environment. Call time on making kitchens, bedrooms, and sofas places of work. Regain focus and motivation to do your very best work in a garden office with nature breaks to lower stress and super-charge creativity. M A LV E R N GA R D E N B U I L D I N G S Buckingham Garden Centre, Tingewick Road, Buckingham, MK18 4AE, 01280 823300 The Berkshire Gardener, Bath Road, Hare Hatch, Berkshire, RG10 9SB, 0118 338 4515 malverngardenbuildings.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Traditional shaker styles designed for modern living

Celebrating 40 years of affordable, luxury, quality & style...

01494 677727

Call us now for a no obligation consultation www.kbstudios.co.uk 43-45 Mayflower Way, Beaconsfields, Bucks HP9 1UG KBS_FP_ABS_B&B_MAR22.indd 1

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Unique service M A R K TAY L O R D E S I G N

Mark Taylor Design has developed a concept kitchen range, MeThD - a unique custom kitchen experience, designed to offer the quality, beauty and aftercare of bespoke with the affordability, speed of production and ease of installation of a custom range. MeThD incorporates MTD’s design elements borne out of 25 years expertise curated to produce four custom kitchen ranges and an innovative movable island. marktaylordesign.co.uk

Find a solution S C H M I DT

Schmidt is one of the leading kitchen manufacturer in Europe, experts in bespoke home living solutions for the entire house including kitchens, bedrooms and living spaces. Quality, innovation and style are at the heart of their brand. With over 500 showrooms in Europe and 30 in the UK, visit their most recent opening in Beaconsfield. home-design.schmidt

K T

I T C H E N R E N D S

H O M E | KITCHENS

Plant life B E ARDS AN D DAISIES

A B S O L U T E LY L I S T S 6 BUSINESSES FOR A CONTEMPORARY K I TC H E N By PENDLE HARTE

Kitchens that look like living spaces are very much of the moment, and kitchens full of plants are a natural extension of this. Herb gardens, hanging plants, or just a single statement leafy feature. Beards and Diaises can advise on plants specifically suited to kitchens, and will deliver to your door. (Pantry by hmillerbros.co.uk) beardsanddaisies.co.uk

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H O M E | KITCHENS

The wfh corner YO KO K LO ED EN

With more than a quarter of people set to continue working from home at least part of the time, the pressure on desk space is real. Working from the kitchen table is not ideal, so creative solutions are needed. Pull-down desks like this are being installed in new kitchens all over town, providing a simple yet effective solution. They're great for home work too. yokokloeden.com

The pantry T H E M Y ER S TO U C H

Kitchen designers are upping their game when it comes to storage, and the clever pantry is top of everyone's wishlist. Compartments for gadgets, shelves and pull-out drawers, bottle racks, spice racks and a dedicated space for everything will appeal to everyone's inner Marie Kondo. themyerstouch.co.uk

Form & function MKB DESIGNS

Your dream kitchen should work for you and your needs; whether that includes getting the most out of your work space or handy storage solutions to keep everything hidden away. At MKB, they keep it simple by using just two main suppliers for the framework of their kitchens; Ashley Ann and Beckermann, who have such accommodating ranges, there is simply something for everyone whether it’s modern, traditional or a crossover of the two. Being bespoke doesn’t have to break the bank. mkbdesigns.co.uk

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H O M E | FOCUS

HOT property We take a look at the unique apartments in the iconic Horlicks Factory conversion

orlicks Quarter is a new destination in Slough, Royal Berkshire, being created by developer, Berkeley, on the historic Horlicks Factory site. Built in 1908, for over a century the worldfamous malted milk drink, Horlicks, was manufactured there and shipped around the world. A locally listed building – like Battersea Power Station and the Tate Modern – it is now being imaginatively redefined by Berkeley. Horlicks Quarter is located in the town centre, just five minutes walk away from Slough station with Crossrail opening in 2022. This vibrant new community will feature a collection of one, two and three bedroom new and refurbished apartments, plus a number of three bedroom townhouses.

The Horlicks Factory boasts a magnificent roof garden with panoramic views The Horlicks Factory is the latest collection to be released for sale consisting of 161 luxury, contemporary studios, one and two bedroom apartments and three bedroom duplex penthouses – being created within the original factory building. Boasting a truly stunning architectural design, the Factory features a large glass atrium that floods the building with light, whilst dual aspect apartments on each floor open onto feature floating walkways that overlook the beautiful internal gardens below. An internal glass elevator will allow residents to enjoy the sunken gardens, as they travel up to the magnificent roof garden, which affords panoramic views towards Windsor Castle. The uniquely styled apartments have been carefully crafted with large feature windows to create light-filled, stylish interiors featuring contemporary and industrial detailing, inspired by the heritage of the Factory. Individually designed contemporary kitchens feature stone worktops, brick effect tiled splashbacks and integrated Bosch appliances, whilst hotel

style bathrooms offer a blend of modern and traditional details, with feature brick effect tiles, white gloss tiles and quality vanity units. The Horlicks Factory sits amid green landscaped gardens, water features and tranquil gardens planted to provide year-round colour. According to latest research by TIC Finance (based on ONS data 2021), Slough was identified in the top three areas in the UK that have recorded the highest average growth rates and the most stable property markets over the past 10 years – with an average yearly price growth of 6.4%. Located in the Thames Valley, on the M4 Tech Corridor, just 15 minutes by train to London Paddington and eight miles from Heathrow airport, Slough offers superb transport links, global employers, regeneration and a history of innovation. Apartments in the Horlicks Factory are priced from £265,000. For further information visit horlicksquarter.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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SPECIALISTS IN

Luxury Surface Design From luxurious walls that make a statement to seamless wet rooms. ‘Be Bold, Be Bespoke, Be BVP’

bespokevenetianplastering.com info@bespokevenetianplastering.com | 01344 231163 BVP_FP_ABS_B&B_MAR22_V2.indd 1

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HOME • TECH

H I G H T E C H

B A S E C U RV E R UA R K

OUR PICK OF STYLISH AND FUNCTIONAL GADGETS

The R5 is the perfect all-in-one system for music and design enthusiasts alike. Finished in walnut with curved edges and a smooth feel, it's a premium piece of kit. £1099 ruartaudio.com

CLEAN AIR BLUEAIR

This stylish looking unit is a portable air purifier that filters particles like dust, pollen, mold and pet dander that can cause and exacerbate allergies, leaving you breathing and sleeping easy. £179 blueair.com

TA K E O U T

BA NG & OLUFSEN

2 3

Bang & Olufsen’s award-winning Beosound Explore is now available in two beautiful new colourways: Navy Blue and Chestnut. The portable speaker is waterproof and lightweight, with an impressive battery life of 27 hours. £169 bang-olufsen.com

WA L L O F S O U N D MARANTZ

Marantz's Model 40n is an integrated amplifier with outstanding sound quality alongside a vast library of digital music, podcasts and more. £2,199 marantz.com

H E A D S PAC E B&O

Lambskin leather. Memory foam cushions. An ergonomic pressure-relieving headband that fits different types of head. These versatile over-ear headphones give you cocoon-like comfort. £449 bang-olufsen.com

I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H

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THE 20th ANNIVERSARY UK TOUR Phil McIntyre Entertainment, Queen Theatrical Productions and Tribeca Theatrical Productions present

‘A KIND OF MAGIC.

SPECTACULAR. MAGNIFICO!’ The Sun

‘A NEW BREED OF MUSICAL -

BRILLIANT’ BBC Newsnight

Y OU R F I NA L C H A NC E T O S E E - D ON ’ T M I S S OU T !

MON 2 – SAT 7 MAY 2022 ATGTICKETS.COM/aylesbury* 0844 871 7615* *Fees apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge

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H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

MAKING A

CO N N ECTION

There’s no place in your home for poor broadband

ome is where the heart is, but if your broadband connection doesn’t have the heart to serve up all of your needs, there’s really no place for it in your home. Go beyond today’s broadband and bring Full Fibre into the heart of your home with Swish. As part of a £250 million-pound investment to create a state-of-the-art 10,000Mbps Full Fibre network, Swish Fibre are currently building their network across towns in the Home Counties, to help you work, surf and play with confidence. Unless you’re one of the lucky few UK households, chances are you have a fibreto-the-cabinet broadband (FTTC). This means the final stage of the journey to your home is being made by the traditional copper telephone wire. Think of copper like a leaky bucket, where it quickly loses speed over the distance to your home. Swish Fibre doesn’t stop at bringing you blistering performance that’s way beyond today’s average speeds. Like their Full Fibre network, they’ve thrown away the rule book and redesigned a range of services that put you first and firmly in control.

Speed united Unlike traditional broadband services, Swish Fibre delivers an upload speed that matches the eye-watering download speed of your chosen package. Make every millisecond count. Make poor video calls, slow file uploads and gaming lag a thing of the past. With split-second response rates, Swish always delivers when it matters most.

Endless possibilities Say hello to 4K streaming, hardcore gaming, crystal clear video calls and smart home living, all across multiple devices at the same time – day and night.

Future proofed for generations to come Swish’s network is currently able to expand to speeds of 10,000Mbps, with the ability to upgrade even further so it’s always ahead of true demands.

Where can I find information on the progress of the network installation? For more information on where Swish is installing fibre, visit swishfibre.com/ locations. These will include build plans,

an evolving bank of frequently-askedquestions and opportunities to speak with the Swish team. They are committed to providing regular updates here to keep you informed of progress. The good news is, you can now pre-order or order Swish Fibre in Marlow, Gerrards Cross, Princes Risborough, Beaconsfield, Bourne End and Wooburn Green. But if you feel like you’re missing out, well fear not. Swish Fibre is making its way around Berkshire and Buckinghamshire and Full Fibre will soon be available in Flackwell Heath, Ascot and Sunningdale.

What is involved with installing Swish Fibre networks? Like all utility companies, their network installation involves digging trenches. However, Swish Fibre use a variety of trenching methods in order to minimise traffic disruption and time spent in your area. At the same time, their engineers will install street cabinets for their high speed fibre connections. If you live in one of these areas, you can register your interest online to hear more information about what Full Fibre can do for you and to find out when your home is ready to be connected, plus you can also pre-order online or visit them at the Swish Fibre hub in Marlow. Once your property is ready for service, one of their expert installations team will be in touch to schedule in a suitable time for you to get connected. SW I S H F I B R E Visit 6, 6a Market Square, Marlow, SL7 1DA, 0800 0489415 swishfibre.com

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H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

Natural light has a positive effect on your mood and general well-being

Window

TO THE WO R L D

Investigating glazing solutions that will add plenty of light to your home

aximising the natural light in your home can not only have a positive effect on your mood and general well-being, but it can also create a welcoming environment for family and friends. So how do you maximise the natural light in your home? Read on for Kloeber’s top tips…

GLAZED PATIO DOORS – LET THE LIGHT FLOOD IN If you want to connect your indoor and outdoor space, then a patio door is one of the most desired elements to any selfbuild or extension project. Bifold doors can open up to 90% of the aperture and are perfect for smaller openings, whereas sliding doors will open up to 75% of the aperture. One of the panes remains fixed in place with the others sliding behind, but when closed, they offer wide panels

and unadulterated views. French doors are another option; perfect for more traditional properties. Glazed doors can help you increase the light coming into a north facing room and optimise the light in a south facing room; either way, they will make any room feel larger and brighter.

SHARE THE LIGHT WITH INTERNAL GLAZING The ideal way to share a source of light from another room is with internal glazing. You don’t always need to add a window to an external wall, an internal window can add an interesting feature to your home. How about a glass panel above a door, or as a point of interest in a kitchen? You could try an internal glazed door to add light to a dark hallway from a dining or living room and why not consider an internal bifold door? They offer an ideal solution with the dual purpose of creating zones within the family living space as well as allowing light to flow through, from room to room.

TRANSFORM YOUR DARK HALLWAY If you feel your hallway is dark and unappealing, consider an entrance door with glass panels within the design. Or you could add a fanlight above the door or sidelights (glazed panels to one or both sides of the door, which can be opaque to protect privacy) to add impact to the entrance of your home.

UNIQUE GLAZED GABLES AND FIXED GLAZING Glazed gables and fixed glazing panels will create an interesting architectural focal point to any home. You can add a wow factor with a vaulted ceiling together with a glazed gable to enhance your property and add a bifold or sliding door to achieve a glass wall from ground level up. Ceilings, walls and corners offer the potential of benefiting from additional natural light, as well as creating a truly unique element to your home. For more information on how to add light to your home, speak to the team from Kloeber. Their technical sales advisors are experienced in project management and can advise on how their wide range of products can be tailored to suit your project. A visit to one of their nationwide showrooms in Cambridgeshire, West London, Buckinghamshire and West Sussex is highly recommended. They operate on an appointment only basis, contact them on 01487 740044 or info@kleober.co.uk

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Enjoy the journey Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years

With high academic standards, high calibre staff and excellent pastoral care, Upton House children blossom and have a zest for life, continually learning and developing their abilities, interests and talents within a caring and supportive environment. Our children thrive in the modern world and we invite them to think outside the box. Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

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E D U C AT I O N

CASTING A LIGHT ON L A I D L AW E D U CAT I O N

Did you love having your nose in a book when you were younger? Or did issues with recognising words affect you? And what about the 21st century child – with technology everywhere, are the younger generation reading enough? Over the page, the founder of Laidlaw Education looks at how parents can encourage a love of reading.

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WORD PERFECT

World Book Day falls on 3 March, so there’s never been a better time to take a closer look at how your child reads and consider what support they need By S U E L A I D L AW

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EDUCATION • FEATURE

s a child, I recall my mum constantly calling me down for breakfast whilst I had my nose stuck in a book and, at the other end of the day, having a torch under the blankets just so that I could get to the last page before I heard my parents coming upstairs to check that I was asleep. Not all children are naturally drawn to reading, of course. Their minds and energy may lay elsewhere and that is perfectly fine. However, I think it is the desire of every parent to see their child read and, hopefully, also enjoy. For some children, the process of learning to read comes easily and for others it takes longer. Don’t worry if your child is one of the latter, this will come and, rest assured, this is not a reflection on their intelligence. The “decoding” aspect of reading can sometimes be a challenge for a child who is either not particularly interested or who “cracks the code” in a different way. I often tell worried parents about my cousin – she didn’t learn to read until she was at least seven years of age, but subsequently went on to achieve a PhD in Molecular Cancer Cell research. Well-structured and perceptive teaching, at a pace that is right for the child, will help. If the struggle continues well past the seven-year-old mark, then talk to a professional about if it is time to check

“Well-structured and perceptive teaching, at a pace that is right for the child, will help” whether your child may have some dyslexic tendencies. At Laidlaw Hall, our Dyslexia Centre, there are many children who need some help in developing their reading skills; some are dyslexic, but many are not. Do ensure that you make reading accessible – select books with your child that they can read with ease; don’t push them to read classics until they love reading and want to read those books for themselves; and visit bookshops and libraries to find books together. What is so important is creating a love of stories and words and characters – and developing a sense of warmth and fun in books. Make sure that you find time to curl up with your child and read to them. Use funny voices and make them laugh; create atmospheres and make it a time that they long to share with you, rather than a time to hide or evade. If you have a reluctant reader, take the pressure off making him or her read to you and you take the strain. They will learn so much from your intonation, the vocabulary, and the sheer warmth of the time together. I once taught a boy, a Year 6 sportsman in the making, who had the most wonderful writing style. “What have you done to create such a creative writer?” I asked his mum. “Well,” she replied, with a twinkle in her eye, “I just read to my sons every evening even though they are now ten and eleven-years-old.” It really showed! If your house is full of books – not just fiction but non-fiction, art books, photography books, books about history – and if your children see you use and enjoy them, for reference, for pleasure, for recipes, then they will absorb a hidden message that books and reading are wonderful. Enjoy World Book Day with your child.

Sue Laidlaw is founder of Laidlaw Education and Laidlaw Virtual Academy. Laidlaw Hall is a CReSTeD registered centre of excellence in the teaching of children with dyslexia. For more information, call 020 8487 9517 or visit laidlaweducation.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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WEEK OPEN URS

D TO GUIDE ILABLE AVA AY 3-6M

A VIBRANT, EXCITING AND MOTIVATING EDUCATION FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 3-18

Excellence in Independent Education for Boys and Girls aged 3-18 Moulsford, Oxfordshire OX10 9HT Untitled-2 1

www.cranfordhouse.net

EDUCATION • FOCUS

JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY We take a closer look at the all-through school LVS Ascot to see how they offer a world of opportunity for all of their pupils

VS Ascot is an award-winning, all-ability, independent day and boarding school that inspires boys and girls from 4 to 18 to exceed their expectations and become independent adults, through a rounded education that delivers academic rigor alongside sporting, performing and creative opportunities. The school is one of three owned and managed by the Licensed Trade Charity, which has a proud heritage, educating boys and girls since 1803 when the first Licensed Victualler’s School was set up. The school was granted a Royal Charter in 1836 and Her Majesty the Queen continues to be patron of LVS Ascot to this day. As an all-through school, it offers a seamless education within a spacious 26acre site located in Berkshire that includes Infant & Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form facilities as well as four Boarding Houses. Just 30 minutes from Heathrow and an hour from Gatwick, LVS Ascot provides modern, comfortable and extensive facilities for a thriving boarding community of 180 students aged 8-18 from a range of backgrounds in the UK and internationally. LVS Ascot facilities include Infant & Junior School environmental garden, indoor

“As an all-through school, it offers a seamless education within a spacious 26-acre site located in Berkshire, with modern, comfortable and extensive facilities”

LVS ASCOT IS AN ALL-THROUGH SCHOOL

swimming pool, fully equipped 250 seater theatre, learning resource centre, astro pitch, fitness centre and wellbeing hub. A full range of planned activities and outings keep students stimulated and entertained during the evenings and weekends. The supportive and nurturing environment of the Infant & Junior School encourages free-flow between the outside area and inside the classroom, allowing the children to explore their individuality and develop responsibility within boundaries of good manners and respect for each other. LVS Ascot’s highly able Senior School students are supported in their studies through a combination of subject-specific unique breakaway classes and enrichment trips including motivational speakers. LVS Ascot Sixth Form offers small classes for focused studies and more student-teacher

interaction in over 30 different A-level and BTEC courses. Careers advice is offered alongside the academic advice given on university course selection to help students calmly navigate what can be a difficult crossroads. The majority of LVS Ascot Sixth Form students go straight to university, while others take a gap year or decide that work-based training will suit them better. Proud of its excellent academic and pastoral care, staff across the school work together to ensure that every student’s personal development is nurtured, believing that encouragement and support are essential to help young people become confident citizens for the future. For more information or to register for their next open event visit lvs.ascot.sch.uk/admissions/open-days A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Co-ed Nursery & Prep School Rising 3 – 11 years

Aiming high - flying higher To visit us, call 01753 541075 or email registrar@etonend.org 35 Eton Road Datchet Berkshire SL3 9AX www.etonend.org

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

A WELL-EARNED REPUTATION With unbeatable pastoral care and superb facilities for sport and the performing arts, proudly independent Cranford House’s pupils enjoy educational excellence

ranford House is a warmly welcoming, small coeducational independent day school for pupils aged 3 to 18. Their Nursery, Junior, Senior and Sixth Form departments work in tandem to provide the best possible learning outcomes for each stage of their pupils’ education and a seamless progression throughout their time at school. Set in beautiful grounds on the Oxfordshire and Berkshire border in the heart of Moulsford village, Cranford House is celebrating 90 years of excellence in independent education. Today, they are proud to continue offering their pupils a wealth of opportunities and superb facilities for sport, science, the creative and performing arts, and much more besides. They are renowned for their strong focus on pastoral care and the positive, supportive relationships between pupils and staff. They are fully committed to ensuring their happy, friendly school is a place that pupils look forward to coming to each day. Their vibrant house system plays a vital part in school life, fostering valuable friendships across year groups, as well as providing the forum for some healthy competition.

“Cranford House enjoys a strong reputation for both teaching excellence and for maintaining a focus on each individual pupil” As the leading co-educational school in the region, they aim to provide their pupils with a progressive education fit for the 21st century. Pupils leave Cranford House as well-rounded individuals with a host of achievements under their belts. Academic excellence plays an important part in the well-rounded education they pride themselves in providing. Their GCSE results typically see over 65% of all grades achieved at 9-7 (A*-A) and over 85% of grades 9-6 (A*-B). The school consistently achieves a value-added score showing that pupils at Cranford House can expect to achieve over a grade and a half higher per subject than they would elsewhere. Their inclusive approach to sportfor-all underpins the school ethos and ensures every pupil plays their part. They boast excellence in music, drama and the performing arts – their vibrant performing arts faculty encourages pupils to develop self-confidence and self-assurance through a breadth of opportunity. Cranford House is a place where children with a host of interests both inside and beyond the classroom thrive. They aim to provide an opportunity-rich education to children ready to make the most of it. “Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make,”

says headmaster, Dr James Raymond. “Cranford House enjoys a strong reputation for both teaching excellence and for maintaining a focus on each individual pupil’s progress that ensures everyone achieves their full potential. “An atmosphere of academic endeavour is at the heart of school life, but a Cranford House education offers much more than simple academic success. Ensuring each child feels safe and supported is key to building their growing confidence in their own abilities. Visitors to our school comment on the happy atmosphere, while our pupils describe Cranford House as a

family community where everyone knows and supports each other. Our aim is to ignite every child’s curiosity and interest and I am delighted to say that the scope of our pupils’ accomplishments is exceptional. “The best way to get a flavour of life here is to see our school in action for yourself.” Their Open Week will be held from 3-6 May, advance booking recommended. CRANFORD HOUSE Willow Court Lane, Moulsford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9HT • 01491 651218 cranfordhouse.net A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Developing Remarkable People

OPEN EVENT

Co-Ed Nursery • Girls Prep • Age 3 - 11 Years

Friday 18 March 10:00 - 12:00 heatherton.com

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EDUCATION • NEWS

Opening doors

R O O M TO E X P LO R E Jubilee’s nurseries are all about ‘learning by doing’ through real experiences. All children are given the time and space to explore, discover and use their imagination, in a languagerich environment with caring and highly-skilled practitioners. If you are looking for a nursery or pre-school, Jubilee offers a very special experience for babies and children from three months old to five years of age. With an abundance of stunning private grounds (around 63 acres in fact!), woodland and a working farm for the children, it is a truly unique experience. jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Heatherton School in Amersham has announced that their Spring Open Day will be on Friday 18 March, from 10am-noon. Heatherton is an independent Prep School for girls aged 3-11. The school also has an inspiring and nurturing co-educational Nursery for boys and girls who can join from the time that they turn three. Heatherton is a forward-thinking, innovative school with a very special close family feel that is renowned in the Buckinghamshire area. It is in the enviable position of being a Prep School within the prestigious Berkhamsted Schools Group. Email admissions@ heatherton.com or call on 01494 726433; heatherton.com

L earn with the best Wellington College Easter Revision Courses are returning from Sunday 10 to Thursday 14 April 2022. With both residential and day places available, the courses prepare students in their final years for IGCSE, GCSE and A-level examinations. All subjects are organised and taught by a team of highly qualified and experienced teachers from the very best schools across the UK, including Wellington College. wellingtoncollege.org.uk/easter_revision

THE END IS J U ST T H E STA R T

“Acting isn’t a game of pretend. It’s an exercise in being real.” SIDNEY POITIER

Eton End is a co-educational Nursery and Day school for children aged 3 to 11 years set in extensive grounds. Established in 1936, they merge tradition with a creative, dynamic approach to successful learning. Eton End pupils achieve excellent academic standards and develop a love of learning in small classes; wellbeing is pivotal to their educational ethos as they believe happy children thrive. Eton End children are confident and articulate with strong communication skills. etonend.org

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FROM AGES 2 – 18

“Claires Court have consistently

gone above and beyond, month after month to provide top notch education for our sons.

”

Junior Boys Parent, March 2021

Direct coach routes from Marlow, Marlow Bottom, Bourne End, Cookham www.clairescourt.com RESPONSIBILITY Untitled-7 1

RESPECT

LOYALTY

INTEGRITY 16/12/2021 13:29

ENHANCING LANDSCAPES

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Absolutely Berkshire March 2022

Articles inside

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