Absolutely Essex March 2022 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ESSEX

Essex MARCH 2022

PLU S GAME ON

The Courtauld Polo Trophy returns •

LEADING LADIES

SPECIAL

MARCH 2022

30 pages of inspiration and insight

Meet the county's movers and shakers •

MAKE A MEAL OF IT

From Braxted Park to Prested Hall, foodie weekends to savour

Splash of

ABSOLUTELY-ESSEX.CO.UK

COLOUR

ABS_Essex_MAR22_Cover_v3.indd All Pages

DYNAMIC DUTCH DESIGN ARRIVES IN ESSEX

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 23/02/2022 17:08

INFO@RKSIGNATURELIVING.COM 020 8532 5959

Untitled-4 1 DPS_V1.indd 1 RK JOINERY

14/12/2021 27/08/2021 12:09 10:47

NEW BUILDS, EXTENSIONS, COMPLETE RE-MODELS & INTERIOR DESIGN. From initial architectural design through to completion.

RKSIGNATURELIVING.COM

Untitled-4 1 DPS_V1.indd 2 RK JOINERY

14/12/2021 27/08/2021 12:10 10:47

Live

Luxuriously

Enjoy magical everyday moments on the finest luxury outdoor furniture and accessories, delivered in a matter of days. From fully waterproof favourites to innovative new designs, indulge in carefree dining and relaxation with award-winning collections designed to enhance your outdoor spaces. Visit Bridgman’s beautiful Enfield Showroom on 17th March to discover this year's garden design trends and innovations at our Outdoor Living Exhibition. Explore our award-winning furniture collections showcased alongside premium outdoor products such as external shading systems, outdoor technology and delightful drinks from our local partner brands. Reserve your place by calling 020 8443 0880 or emailing louie@bridgman.co.uk

82 Lockfield Avenue, Brimsdown, Enfield, EN3 7PX

OLD AMERSHAM

BRIDGMAN_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

WA LTO N - O N -T H A M E S

W I L M S LO W

WINCHESTER

ENFIELD

21/02/2022 14:15

ABSOLUTELY

Contents MARCH 2022

44 66

96 14

C U LT U R E AGENDA

FOOD & DRINK 62 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

MORAG CRICHTON

64 DAYGUSTATION

The best events in March

On battling back from the trolls

28 FOODIE ADVENTURES

The best cookery schools and stays in Essex

News from the industry across Essex

Wanstead and wine: the perfect pairing

66 RECIPES

Dine at home like a Peaky Blinder

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 42 ZEE & CO

A B S O L U T E LY H O M E 93 INTERIORS NEWS

44 THE SHOOT

96 GRAYSON PERRY

Fashion through the ages in Loughton

POM Amsterdam bring colour to Essex

52 DANIELLE BARNETT The singer turned NLP practitioner

Design launches to open this month's special

Inside a very eclectic Essex home

109 TREND

Why metallics make perfect accessories

A B S O L U T E LY- E S S E X .C O. U K A B S O L U T E LY-W E S T E S S E X .C O. U K The online guides to inspirational living and what's on in Essex

O N T H E C OV E R POM Amsterdam's SS22 collection (pom-amsterdam.com)

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_CONTENTS.indd 5

23/02/2022 17:06

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

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM

CELEBRATE MOTHERS DAY 3 Course menu with appetizers £36.95 per person 27th March

JUNIOR DESIGNER KAI NICHOLLS MEDIA CONSULTANTS CELIA GREGORY, TANIA BOHRN, CLAIRE YATES FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

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

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

Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date on what’s happening, new dishes, booking availability & more. We look forward to welcoming you with a smile.

Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYESSEX @ABSOLUTELYWESTESSEX T wi t t e r @ESSEXABSOLUTELY @ABSOLUTELYWESTE In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELYESSEX @ABSOLUTELYWESTESSEX

The Creek

We b si t e s

Flag Hill • Greta Bentley • Colchester • Essex - CO7 8RE

absolutely-essex.co.uk absolutely-westessex.co.uk

Tel: 01206 586435 or 01255 317950 thecreekgreatbentley.co.uk

THECREEK_HP_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1 ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_FLANNEL.indd 8

16/02/2022 12:30

23/02/2022 14:05

MELISSA NEISLER DICKINSON

Welcome

Wivenhoe House Hotel’s Melissa Neisler Dickinson praises the spirit and determination of Essex’s hospitality industry

THE EDITOR'S March issue highlights

he last two years have been a difficult time for all of us on both a personal and business level. The one thing this pandemic has taught me is that we must be open to change. Hospitality was one of the hardest hit sectors and had to react quickly with little notice, from creating outside dining areas, rescheduling dream weddings up to three times for some couples, to going back to the floor to service the unprecedented demand of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and staycations. This was challenging at times, but one we rose to without comprising the customer’s experience. Essex has a great choice of hotels, restaurants, pubs and visitor attractions such as Wivenhoe House Hotel, home of the Edge Hotel School, Beth Chatto Gardens, Colchester Zoo and Tiptree Jams to name a few. All are now showing signs of recovery, but it is still uncertain. Being a Business Development Manager in the hotel sector was challenging in a period of such uncertainty. Seeing the bookings and reservations fall in such volumes with each announcement was heartbreaking. However, we are now starting to see real green shoots of recovery and, even though international travel has re-opened, some are still choosing to stay closer to home, and the staycation is very much in demand this year. We also have so many exciting projects planned for the hotel's 10th birthday celebrations and beyond. To know we made it through such a unique experience and stand as a stronger, more efficient team brings me great comfort.

Absolutely Home Wall to wall design inspiration in this special

Morag Crichton On bouncing back from the social media trolls

London Barrelhouse

Why wine and spirits are a good investment

Beauty Notes

The latest looks and trends from the industry

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_GUEST WELCOME_MK.indd 7

23/02/2022 16:57

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

NEON LIGHT Brodie's cashmere collection includes a ﬂuoro range for spring. We love this electric zip top (£249) and jogger (£210) set. brodiecashmere.com

F LY I N G H I G H

NAIL IT

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

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_WISHLIST_Green_MK.indd 8

23/02/2022 10:33

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

C RY WO L F We can't get enough of this Wolf British Racing Green Watch Winder, available at Baker Brothers Diamonds. £619 bakerbrothersdiamonds.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 Cositas St Albans offer a whole host of products that will satisfy any lover of green. Highlights include a green vase, £24.99, and faux trailing Spanish moss, £18.99 cositas.co.uk

GREEN LIGHT 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

GREEN ETHIC 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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_WISHLIST_Green_MK.indd 9

23/02/2022 10:33

Untitled-1 1

09/02/2022 11:16

C U LT U R E

STAN D A ND DE L IV E R OMID DJALILI 4 MARCH, CHARTER HALL COLCHESTER

After experimenting with a Zoom gig where he got muted by 639 people, multi award-winning comedian and actor Omid Djalili is now where he belongs, on a stage and bringing back the Good Times. Intelligent, always provocative, entertaining, Djalili’s legendary stand-up performance is a captivating comedy masterclass. colchester-events.co.uk

Agenda 14 • Morag Crichton 16 • Food Adventures 28 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_CULTURE OPENER_MK.indd 11

23/02/2022 10:36

CULTURE • COLUMN

Just for STARTERS Before we celebrate women in business with an 8-page special, here Haifa Live picks out one local entrepreneur with quite a story

H HAIFA LIVE Dates in March 

Friday 11 March Soiree Buckhurst Hill 

Every Thursday Melin Chigwell 

Friday 25 March Soiree Buckhurst Hill

HD0 IN SOUTH WOODFORD

ere come the girls! As you may have guessed from our special on page 20, we are focusing on the wonderful women in business in our beautiful county. Entertainment venues, clubs and public houses are often run and owned by men, but one brilliant local venue, HD0, is run by homegrown beauty Danni Park Dempsey. Dempsey was told she would not amount to much, suffering in silence at school having undiagnosed severe dyslexia, ADHD and dyspraxia, and she faced abuse from teachers and students alike. She still pushed herself, though, not allowing this to dissuade her dreams of success and attended Epping Forest College, explaining her struggles which led to her diagnosis and help to manage her disorders. Dempsey went on to work in the city, her infectious personality and smile got her far, however she struggled in the office environment. Off she went to live a young girl’s dream working in Ibiza, before returning home to work in popular haunts such as NuBar, Manor House and The Kings Oak. Dempsey even went on to appear in TOWIE for two years. In September 2013, Dempsey opened HD0, named after the French word “Hors-d'œuvre” which in French literally means "outside the work", or "not part of the ordinary set of courses in a meal". Serving small plates and nibbles was a challenge and HD0 faced closure, but in a stroke of luck a client approached Dempsey to hire her venue privately,

WE HAVE JUST THE PLACE FOR A BABY SHOWER...

something she had never done. Following the success of the event word of mouth spread like wildfire, as it always does in Essex, and soon she was hosting celebrities such David Beckham to TOWIE stars: HD0 was firmly on the map as the place to have your event or celebration. HD0 lounge welcomes all parties from baby showers to engagements, corporate celebrations to birthdays. No event is too much trouble, they even have a soft play area for client’s family parties. Dempsey is extremely hands on, helping with party planning and every detail to make sure each event is a success. Visit @hdolounge to find out more. CATC H H A I FA L I V E Haifa Live’s brand new event, SING IT BACK, will be at the Blue Boar, Abridge, featuring live music, DJs, musicians and a whole lot more. Dates confirmed include Easter Friday 15 April and the Bank Holiday on 2 June

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_HAIFA COLUMN_MK.indd 12

23/02/2022 10:37

y r a s r e v i n 30th An Celebrate with us! Buy any of our stylish garden sets and we’ll give you a further 20% off any additional purchases T&Cs apply. Ask in store for details. E&OE.

THE UK’s LARGEST GARDEN FURNITURE SHOWROOMS FOR 30 YEARS

ESSEX SUPERSTORE

Regatta Garden Furniture, A127 Hovefields Avenue (A127 Southend bound, next to Shell Petrol Station) Wickford, Essex SS12 9JA Call our Sales Hotline: 01268 724959

CHELMSFORD SHOWROOM

Regatta Garden Furniture, (Off A12 at Witham Junction 21 Co-op services) London Road, Witham CM8 1ED Call our Sales Hotline: 01245 209624

Or visit us at: www.regattafurniture.com Untitled-1 1

10/02/2022 11:41

The Agenda

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

EV E NT

Outdoor Living Exhibition 17 March BRIDGMAN ENFIELD Visit Bridgman’s beautiful Enﬁeld showroom on 17 March to discover this year's garden design trends and innovations at their Outdoor Living Exhibition. Explore their awardwinning furniture collections showcased alongside premium outdoor products. Reserve your place by calling 020 8443 0880 or emailing louie@bridgman.co.uk

A RT

Who Run The World?

3 M A RC H - 2 A P R I L · E L EC TR I C GA L L ERY, SOUTH WOODFORD

Electric Gallery’s new exhibition, Who Run The World?, features exclusive new works, editions and originals from over 30 amazing women artists based in the UK, including Cassandra Yap, Shuby, Bonnie & Clyde, Lauren Baker and more. To mark the occasion one of the UK’s leading female artists, Sara Pope, has created a special one-off limited edition print entitled Emotional Gangster (pictured). Only 15 copies will be available, signed and numbered by the artist herself. electricgallery.co.uk

A RT

RDF Spring Exhibition

Until 9 March S E N T I N E L G A L L E R Y, WIVENHOE Lorraine George and her husband run the Sentinel Gallery and also a charity, therobgeorgefoundation.co.uk, in memory of their youngest son Rob, who died aged 21 eight years ago from Acute Myeloid Leukemia. All proceeds from the gallery are donated to The RGF, and their latest Spring Exhibition, featuring some of the best artists in the county, will also see 40% of sales donated to the wonderful charity too. thesentinelgallery.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_Culture_Agenda_MK.indd 14

23/02/2022 10:42

CULTURE • DIARY

T H E AT R E

Stagecoach Gala Various dates M I L L F I E L D T H E AT R E , E D M O N TO N Young talent from Chingford will be taking to the stage later this spring to perform shows at the Millﬁeld Theatre in Edmonton. More than 250 students from Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools in Chingford and Walthamstow will perform a tailored set of West End favourites as part of Gala performances for family and friends. The students have been practising for the last two months for their very own taste of theatre stardom. stagecoach.co.uk

ART

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

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

MAGICAL BONES

This Month’s Must See

11 March A RTS CE N T R E , CO LCH E ST E R Breakdancing magician and finalist of Britain’s Got Talent 2020, Magical Bones, is taking his new magic show Black Magic back on the road from February 2022, following an impressive sold-out run at the 2019 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Bones is a unique performer, so expect to be taken on an aweinspiring journey that includes the coolest breakdance moves, back-flipping card tricks and of course jaw-dropping street magic. magicalbones.com

THE OTHER ART FAIR

When The Long Trick’s Over 3 - 5 MARCH · MERCURY THEATRE

ighTide and New Wolsey Theatre have announced that Stacey Ghent and Shenagh Govan have been cast playing mother and daughter in the two hander When The Long Trick’s Over. It’s a piece of work that moves forwards and backwards in time across the 21 miles between Dover and Calais as a young swimmer harnesses her mind and body to make the Channel crossing. mercurytheatre.co.uk

The Other Art Fair returns to The Old Truman Brewery, showcasing 150 independent artists. The fair continues its mission to re-frame art, and how it is experienced; offering an art fair experience that is evocative, inclusive, and inspiring. In celebration of March’s International Women’s Day, this edition of the leading artist-led fair is focused on championing women in art and alternative practices. 17-21 March, theotherartfair.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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_Culture_Agenda_MK.indd 15

23/02/2022 10:42

“I didn't realise a programme could make a person seem someone they are not”

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_LEAD PROFILE_MK.indd 16

23/02/2022 10:45

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

SEEING c

Married at First Sight UK and Essex girl Morag Crichton became a victim of internet trolling, but she reveals how she emerged stronger than ever B y N ATA L I E L I

arrying a stranger might seem risky, even unthinkable, but for Rainhamborn Morag Crichton, appearing on Married at First Sight UK to find true love was one big adventure. When we chat on a chilly January afternoon, Crichton is feeling positive, telling me that it’s exactly one year on from the day she filmed her first video interview to appear on the Channel Four show. “I can’t believe how quick it has gone,” she exclaims, “it’s been a year since I applied to the show. One of the casting crew from ITV’s Take Me Out, a show I appeared on in 2018, was advertising on social media for people to go on MAFS. I sent him a few messages and he said: ‘please apply, don’t waste any time.’ So, I did it that evening and had a call first thing the next day. “I burst out laughing and thought ‘what am I doing?’ I felt like I was going to be on my own forever, I was so independent and self-sufficient that if anyone came near me or into my bubble I would think

‘you’ll only cause me misery and grief!’ I really wanted to find the right person.” Viewers were hooked on the show, which brings together couples who have never met based on analysis of their compatibility. Meeting for the first time on their wedding day and after marrying, the couples head off on honeymoon and experience life as a couple and given a few months to decide whether to remain married or to divorce. By April 2021, Crichton found herself walking down the aisle, but did she experience the classic cold feet? “Do you know what? It’s not in my personality, I just throw myself into new experiences, to be honest.” Meeting her firefighter husband Luke Dawson for the first time wasn’t love at first sight, but Crichton remained open-minded and eager to discover a connection. “My first initial thought of Luke was: he’s not my usual type, but we’re here for a reason and there is something that has brought us together. The experts obviously saw something.” While some of her fellow participants found love, it wasn’t to be for the 32-year-old veterinary nurse who now

lives near Lakeside shopping centre. The couple survived the experiment, only to split up after the show. Crichton’s revelation that she didn’t see a future with Luke, despite him confessing his love for her, sparked a wave of internet trolling for the former civil servant. But did viewers see the full picture? “I was definitely myself during the show, but with editing I felt that some of the context was lost, you lose the reason I say the things I do,” she explains. “The full picture isn’t there. I have learnt a lot from the experience. I don’t have any regrets, I had so much fun and made so many amazing friends. “It did upset me how it was edited; I didn’t realise a programme could make a person seem someone they’re not. But unfortunately, it’s the name of the game. I thought I had a thick skin, but when you wake up to multiple negative comments and messages on social media, it’s hard. People think they know you and feel the need to stick their two pence in – it’s a tough way to start your day. I struggled at first, but I got stronger every single day. I feel sad for these trolls. There are even A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_LEAD PROFILE_MK.indd 17

23/02/2022 10:45

CULTURE • INTERVIEW SHE LOVES HER LOCAL GYM

THE FOOD AT FATLING AND FIRKIN IS A TREAT

mums doing this, it’s heart-breaking. I spoke to the psychologist on the show, and it was a matter of getting through each day.” Love is still high on Crichton’s agenda. “I am open to dating, but I want it to happen organically. I have my type: someone who is confident, energetic, walks into a room and just lights it up, you know. I am looking for myself,” she laughs. She is now returning to normal life and is ready to embrace 2022. “I woke up this morning with a spring in my step and I feel great! I have been interviewing left, right and centre in Essex for a veterinary nurse position and I’m waiting to find that tingling feeling in a new practice.” With a passion for animals – she volunteered at the South Essex Wildlife Hospital as part of her vet training – and a lust

for life, there is no holding back Crichton, who has sought adventures in Australia and Ibiza. But Essex is where her heart lies. “It’s a massive comedown after the show – you’re in a bubble for months and then go back to figuring out your life, thankfully I have a support network here in Essex,” she adds. “I’ve also lived in Exeter where my mum is as I had a fantastic opportunity to move there and study nursing. Before I joined MAFS, my dad fell ill so that pulled me back to Essex while I cared for him, so I built a life here. After he passed away, I stayed. I am an Essex girl, and this is where I belong.” But what is her favourite thing about the county? “Without a doubt, the people are the best,” she smiles. “Around the time I was receiving abusive messages from internet trolls, I visited Dunelm in Lakeside to buy some bedding. I got to the cashier, and she said: ‘Are you Morag? How are you? Are you alright?’ And she said: ‘Nothing matters, you’re back with your people’.” As for the future, with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram and a hit show behind her, does she envisage a career in television? “I’d never say no,” she considers. “I’ll be appearing on Celebs Go Dating to support my friend Nikita [who also appeared on MAFS]. I enjoy the process, meeting new people and experiences. If it’s fun, adventurous, entertaining, and people get to see me for who I am, then I’m up for it!”

ON MARRIED AT FIRST SIGHT UK

Crichton’s county

Morag Crichton’s top Essex picks

B e d f o r d s Pa r k

I absolutely love walking Bailey, my 14-year-old Chihuahua, around Bedfords Park.

•

T h e F at l i n g and Firkin

This is in Hornchurch and I love heading there for drinks.

SHE IS KEEN ON ALL TYPES OF WILDLIFE IN ESSEX

•

Lakeside and Hornchurch

Two in one, but I love the vibe at Lakeside and my gym in Hornchurch.

ANIMALS ARE PART OF HER CAREER AGAIN

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_LEAD PROFILE_MK.indd 18

23/02/2022 10:45

@Haslers

Haslers

@HaslersUk

HaslersUk

Family Easter Trail Saturday 2 April - Monday 18 April Explore 200 acres of formal gardens, trees from every temperate area of the world and natural play areas as you search for 50 wooden Easter eggs hidden in our stunning landscape. Take in the spring sights, before collecting your trail prize and enjoying a treat from the Orchard Kitchen. The perfect day out for all the family.

www.markshall.org.uk Markshall Estate, Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1TG

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

Registered Charity 256700

23/02/2022 12:09

L E A D I N G the W A Y 20

Charlotte Fuller BUS I NE S S : Haslers Marketing P OS I TI O N : Marketing Consultant

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A When I was younger, I absolutely fell in love with the film, What Women Want, directed by Nancy Meyers, with Mel Gibson, Helen Hunt, Marisa Tomei and Alan Alda. After watching the film, I knew I wanted my career to be in marketing and advertising. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A When I finished my A-levels, I found myself not knowing what I truly wanted to be – until I went for a job interview as a trainee estimator (my dad had always worked in construction, and being the tomboy I was, I thought I could do that). After my interview, the company called me and said “we would love to hire you, but not as a trainee estimator. We were so blown away by your charisma and enthusiasm, we would love to create a new position for you which would be in sales and marketing. We would also like to pay for your education of a marketing degree at university if this would be of interest?” I was absolutely blown away and to this day will always be forever grateful at the opportunity they created for me. Q Tell us about the business you work for today? A I am lead marketing consultant for Haslers Marketing. We help businesses with a whole host of marketing activities and tools, helping clients to communicate effectively with their customers and potential clients along with improving their brand awareness.

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

CHARLOTTE FULLER LOVES THE ESSEX COUNTRYSIDE

Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A There are a few things when out of work which make me feel happy. One is walking through the beautiful countryside where I live with my children (Dorris aged 9 and Herbert aged 5). I also enjoy popping to the local pub with my husband for a cheeky glass of wine. I also really enjoy crafting. Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A Since Covid lockdowns, which meant working from home a lot more, I have had to be conscious of ensuring that I have downtime away from the laptop as it's easy for time to slip away. I now make sure that when the children finish school I am present in their lives. This also means not scrolling through social media whilst they are awake. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Henham, which is very rural. I love that I live in the countryside. We stick our wellies on at the weekend, walk over the field to the local pub, and then walk back taking in the beautiful scenery. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A Have confidence in yourself and know your worth. If you work hard and put in the effort anything is possible and you will reap the rewards. haslers.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 20

23/02/2022 10:52

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

Karen GracieLangrick BUS I N E S S : Colchester High School P OS I TI O N : Headteacher

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A Either an explorer or a headteacher were my two greatest aspirations. I was particularly fascinated by the research and reports for the programme Tomorrow’s World, which went alongside my interest of past civilisations and how lessons from the past could inform the future. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A Perhaps my ‘sliding door’ moment came at an early age, during one of my ‘visits’ to the headteacher’s office at my Primary school. The opportunity presented at such a ‘visit’ may have given me time to reflect not only on the reason behind such a ‘visit’, but also the time to consider my own expectations and a journey towards headship. Mrs Watt’s leadership and reasoning provided me with a clear understanding of the value and privilege associated with receiving a good education and how to make the best use from it.

COLCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL IS A CO-ED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

Q Tell us about your school… A Colchester High School is a small

co-educational independent school, for children aged 2 to 16, where inspiring teaching builds within our pupils the confidence, self-belief and CHARLOTTE FULLER

strength of character to pursue their own talents, whilst nurturing a global perspective and a mindfulness for social responsibility which will last throughout their lives. Combined with our enriching and forwardthinking STEAM curriculum and Digital Literacy mastery programme (as a Microsoft Showcase School), a Colchester High School education develops creative and inquisitive minds, preparing pupils who are ready to shape tomorrow’s world. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A As a keen sportsperson, including having been the Sports Federation President whilst at University, I remain actively involved in supporting the development of girls’ cricket and playing club level tennis and badminton. Additionally, I am passionate about issues relating to sustainability and ethical practice, in both education and leadership. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Colchester, Essex. As a Roman historian, I was drawn to Colchester, Britain’s first city (Camulodunum), as it is an historic market town which dates back over 2,000 years. Raised to the ground during Boudicca’s rebellion, it still retains many elements of its Roman past – with town wall and a Roman Circus (chariot racetrack). However, it is also a town that provides a gateway to the future with a forward-thinking Innovation Centre, located in the University’s Enterprise zone, and reputation as

KAREN GRACIE LANGRICK

a national technology leader on ‘big data’ and data analytics. Alongside this, the town strongly promotes the arts, entrepreneurship in start-up businesses and has great connectivity to the rest of the UK and Europe. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A I would encourage my younger self to ‘let the silence speak’. I have learnt that sometimes silence can be one of the most important parts of any conversation, and more powerful than words. Having become a more effective listener has enabled me to not only hear what people are saying, but has also enhanced my ability to understand and become a better communicator. colchesterhighschool.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 21

23/02/2022 10:52

Zoe Strong BUSIN E SS: Channels Bar & Brasserie POSITION : Restaurant Manager

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A My grandad once told me that I should be a policewoman as I could run fast to catch the criminals. He was a policeman, but once retired worked here at Channels so I decided to keep up the running, but work for Channels instead of the Police!

NATASHA LUCY

Natasha Lucy BUS I N E S S : Natasha Lucy Clinics POS I TI O N : Founder

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A I really wanted to be an air hostess for Virgin Atlantic; I wanted to travel and see the world. Q Was there a particular

‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A Yes. During my time as an air hostess for Virgin Atlantic I used to cover the dream flight holidays for children with life threatening conditions where they would be flown to Disney World as their last wish, and I always looked on in admiration at the nurses, doctors and families, and realised that I would find a career in paediatric nursing more rewarding. Subsequently, I applied to university at the age of 22 and so, my nursing career began. My nursing career continued in palliative care working at Haven House Children Hospice. These experiences undoubtedly shaped my career journey and my overall attitude towards work. Q Tell us about the business you run today? A I founded Natasha Lucy Clinics having worked in the medical profession for many years. Today, I am an experienced Nurse Prescriber, fully qualified in both Basic and Advanced Aesthetic techniques. At my clinic, my

ethos has always been “less is more” and I pride myself on attention to detail in my work – something that I believe keeps my patients trusting in me and my work and returning to the clinic. Myself and my team of experienced aesthetics practitioners and expert skincare professionals share the common belief that comprehensive pre and post patient care is of the utmost importance, and with this in mind, we aim to offer a truly unique facial rejuvenation experience. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A I believe exercise is good for both body and mind, so other than being at work or at home spending time with my children, I’m happiest at the gym, especially early mornings!

Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A The moment I found out that Channels wanted to evolve into a successful restaurant really turned my head. I realised I wanted to be a part of this growing business and to step into a different and more challenging part of my career, learning more and more about food along the way. Q Tell us about the business you work for today? A I work for a family business, which to me makes all the difference – the family are always on site and work so hard to make the business what it is today. Channels has gone from an acorn to an ever-growing restaurant catering for our locals and we are always welcoming new customers. Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A I love working on the restaurant floor and getting to know our customers. The thought of offering guests the freshest, most amazing

CHANNELS BAR & BRASSERIE

Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Chigwell Row and I love the local community there. It feels like you really do live in a village. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A I think I’d tell myself to trust that things will work out exactly as they should and not to worry so much about the small things. I’d tell myself that the happiest people are the ones who live in the now, not in the past or future. I hope to bring these learnings to my children. natashalucyclinics.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 22

23/02/2022 10:52

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

ZOE STRONG

food along with our customer service skills really makes me proud to come to work every day. Our team of staff are like a little family. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A I train out of work to take part in triathlons, this keeps me active and helps with the day to day of being on my feet a lot at work. I am usually either in sports gear or spending time with family and friends, which is the best time. Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A It is impossible in the world of catering to switch off completely, but I love planning fun things to do on my days off to ensure I am making the most of my life, which my husband is amazing at helping me do. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A Last year I moved to Springfield to a lovely house down a quiet road and I just love the peacefulness – but inside is home to an 80s jukebox that is played almost every day along with some very loud singing! Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A To remind myself that it does not matter that I never knew what I wanted to do in life when everyone else did at that stage at school – life will work out how you want it to and you can be anything, but as long as you love it and wake up looking forward to the day then you have done as well as anyone else. channelschelmsford.co.uk

ANNABEL KABEL

Annabel Kabel BUSIN E SS: Elliott James Prime Residential POSITION : Head of Residential Lettings

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A I always dreamt of being a television presenter. I just loved dancing/acting school and I played all the roles including the male ones! Even my schoolteachers said I was destined for stardom, but I had my daughter at 23 so becoming a mummy changed my outlook on life. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A I always used to watch Homes Under The Hammer and any property related programme I could, and I just remember thinking I could help change people’s lives by helping them move into their dream property. I then looked into becoming an estate agent and quickly noticed the Lettings side – and that is now my chosen career path. Q Tell us about the business you work for today? A I work as Head of Residential Lettings for Elliott James Prime Residential in Loughton. We are an extremely progressive agency particularly with our marketing, which gives our landlords a significant advantage. We have amazing landlords and tenants that are a pleasure to deal with daily and I love proving just how good we are when presenting to new landlords. Q What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work?

A Making peoples’ dreams come true. It sounds corny I know, but seeing the smile on people’s faces when I am handing over a key to a property gives me the biggest buzz knowing that we have diligently handled all the aspects of starting a new tenancy. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A I am happiest with my family; I am newly married, and I have two children: Lily is ten-years-old and Leo is one. I love family time and we all love a board game, so we are pretty happy being at home playing Rummikub! Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A I make sure I am home for bath and bedtime. As soon as I walk in the door, I’m mummy again so I am pretty good at keeping both separate. My husband also owns a cleaning company, I help him with admin bits too, so I never really switch off! Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A We live in Abridge and we absolutely love it. We moved here in 2018 and it is the most wonderful village full of incredibly kind, caring, and supportive people. We have a Facebook group which we can ask the smallest or largest favour, and someone will be there to help. We have met so many friends living here and we feel so lucky. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A I would tell my younger self to sleep more! ejpr.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 23

23/02/2022 10:52

Alison Smith BUS I N E S S : Hammond and Smith POS I TI O N : Director

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A I always wanted to be a Red Coat at Butlins. I thought those red coats looked so glamorous! Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A After I had my children I was a stay at home mum for a while. I think I’d lost my confidence a bit, and I owe it to my husband whose support and encouragement led me to a job in Estate Agency. I walked into an Epping branch and met Jonjo Hammond. We hit it off from the start and dreamed of one day setting up our own estate agency. Fast forward 12 years and here we are! Q Tell us about the business you run today? A Hammond and Smith is a boutique Estate Agency in Epping. Estate agents don’t always have the best reputation and it’s our mission at Hammond and Smith to change that. We want to bring something a bit different to the industry, and love supporting the local community. I am a massive champion of women in a male-led industry. I want your experience to be the best and I’m always there to hold your hand as it can be a stressful time. Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A I love the freedom Estate Agency gives you. You are not tied to a desk and every day is different. I get to go out and meet some great people on viewings and valuations, and get to see gorgeous houses in the process. Handing keys on completion day is just wonderful. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A Spending time with family and friends. Or Never Fully Dressed in Queen’s Road, Buckhurst Hill – that makes me happy!

ALISON SMITH

Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A Mental health is so important and so we made the decision not to open Sundays as we feel that day of rest is so important. I love nothing more than a long walk with my dog Teddy to clear my thoughts, and I leave my phone at home. I also have two teenagers so they keep me on my toes. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A Epping is just wonderful. We have an amazing High Street with lots of independent businesses. I love grabbing a coffee from Fred and Doug’s and walking into Epping Forest. I also love that you can jump on the Central line and London is your oyster. That is why we have so many people wanting to move here. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A A good friend once said: “What’s for you won’t pass you by.” It’s so true! I am a control freak, but ultimately it’s all happening anyway so go with it. hammondandsmith.co.uk

“I AM A MASSIVE CHAMPION OF WOMEN IN A MALE-LED INDUSTRY”

Mandy Aulak BUSIN E SS: Talem Law POSITION : Director & Co-Founder

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A I dreamt of a variety of careers starting with a nurse, teacher, journalist, TV presenter and Prime Minister (go straight to the top job!). As a teenager, I decided I wanted to be a solicitor and I did go on to do exactly that. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A As a trainee solicitor, I worked for Linklaters, a large international law firm, and I wanted to be seconded to their offices in New York or Singapore. Due to a variety of reasons including 9/11 that did not happen. Instead, I stayed in London and was seconded to the Free Representation Unit (FRU), a charity who help people unable to afford a lawyer with employment tribunal litigation. It was the best experience I could have wished for as I learnt so much and gained hands on experience of running my own cases, which would not have been possible at that early stage of my career, as well as meeting some brilliant people. Q Tell us about the business you run today? A I co-founded Talem Law in 2017, a virtual boutique law firm

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 24

23/02/2022 10:52

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

specialising in all aspects of employment law for employers and employees. In addition, we practice in special educational needs law. Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A I love the variety of work, the interesting people I meet through my work, and nothing beats that feeling of knowing I have been able to help my client and improve their situation. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A Outside of work, I am the happiest when I am with my family and friends and spending time with my son.

GRAND UNION CANAL

Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A I co-founded Talem Law so that I could work around my autistic son, so built into our business model is flexibility to ensure a work/life balance. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Chigwell and love the community spirit and will always meet someone I know when I am out and about in the area. Chigwell offers the perfect mix of pleasant green surroundings and easy access into London.

Michelle Gibbons BUSIN E SS: T-Space Architects & Engineers POSITION : Managing Director

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A My favourite subjects at school were art and maths. I loved art so was interested in a career in design. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A It was a series of unplanned occurrences rather than a singular moment. An interview for a role in one company led to another interview for a managerial position in their sister company. I secured that role; it was my first position managing a firm of architects. Whilst at that company I met a colleague that I still work with – that collaboration led to T-Space.

Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A Don’t try to blend in when you can stand out! talemlaw.co.uk

MANDY AULAK

Q Tell us about the business you run today? A T-Space is a full service architectural and engineering practice. We consider the firm to be one of the leading companies in north-east London and Essex. Our specialism is highend new builds and developer led schemes. The T-Space team offers creativity, leadership, expertise and drive in a complex industry. Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A I love finding and liaising with potential clients. Some clients may only ever instruct an architect once. I aim to understand their requirements while ensuring they feel confident in our team’s collective ability to drive their project. I equally enjoy leading the T-Space team by promoting good practice and standards. My overriding aim is to ensure staff thrive in their various roles.

MICHELLE GIBBONS

Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A I am a lark. I prefer to start work early and, if possible, finish on time. I try to make my working day as productive as possible to ensure there is that balance. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in west London and enjoy walking to relax. There are lots of large open parks, the River Thames and the Grand Union Canal to explore. I love our local pub too; it dates from the 14th century and has lots of character. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A I would tell myself not to let others undermine me and to build friendships that recognise the importance of mutual affection and respect. t-spacearchitects.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 25

23/02/2022 10:53

Georgina Jenkins BUSIN E SS : House of Interiors POSITION : Director

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A I wanted to be a stylist as my mother was a buyer in high fashion, so I was highly influenced by design, colours and textures from a young age. I emulated her career in high end fashion, I went on to work in an art gallery and progressed to interior design because I have always had a passion and natural flair for it.

SHERI-ANNE MIZON

Sheri-Anne Mizon BUS I N E S S : Attwaters Jameson Hill POS I TI O N : Partner

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A A solicitor or a child minder. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A Whilst living in Cardiff, early in my career, I was made redundant. I applied for jobs in Cardiff and only one in Essex. I am from Essex, however had been indecisive about moving back. I received a job offer immediately from the Essex job, which resulted in me packing up my house in Cardiff and moving back to Essex within one week, after a period of 12 years away. That firm was Attwaters Jameson Hill and, 14 years later, I can safely say that move has been the best move I have made! Q Tell us about the business you work for today? A Attwaters Jameson Hill is a High Street law firm with offices in Hertford, Ware, Harlow, Loughton and London. We offer a broad range of legal services, which means we can work with our clients throughout their life (and often for many generations of a family). We pride ourselves on holding client satisfaction at the forefront of our focus and develop positive working relationships with our clients.

Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A Our people, being our staff and our clients. I specialise in Residential Property and have the pleasure of helping clients through the moving process every day. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A By the sea in Aldeburgh. This is my ‘breathe and relax’ place, helped by the very patchy mobile phone coverage, which enforces the relaxing! Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A By being disciplined. It is not easy, and

I cannot claim to have fully achieved this, but it is essential to remember that your staff and clients and family deserve you at your best. You can only be at your best by ensuring that you maintain a good work/life balance and place priority on your physical and mental wellbeing.

Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A I cannot think of one moment, but there have been several highlights along the way working with high-profile clientele and property developers that has certainly helped propel my career to where I am today. Q Tell us about the business you run today? A My business partner and I have evolved from bespoke furniture makers and interior designers. We identified an opportunity to fill a niche in the market for a showroom that showcases luxury bespoke furniture in elegant room sets and that was the birth of House of Interiors – we designed and opened a luxury 5,000sq ft showroom in the Brookfield Centre in Cheshunt. We offer a personable interior design service alongside highly skilled tradespeople from the build upwards, as well as manufacturing our own products in-house.

Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Takeley, Essex. I love the fact that we are surrounded by so much outside space and it has a real community feel. As a mum to a very energetic seven-year-old, we can often be found enjoying the Flitch Way bridal path on our bikes or enjoying hot chocolates/ice creams at Hatfield Forest.

Q What do you enjoy most about your day to day work? A I love the variety of my work. One day I am at a client’s home scheming designs looking through a varied range of fabrics, colours, textures and finishes, the next day I could be in the showroom and workshop designing and bringing new bespoke designs to life, or I could be at an interior design show getting inspiration and sourcing the latest trends. I also love building relationships with my clients and understanding what they want from their home.

Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A Do not be afraid to ask questions, no-one is judging you for not knowing everything. attwatersjamesonhill.co.uk

Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A Spending time with my family and friends, going to lovely restaurants and definitely on the beach with a large cocktail in my hand!

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 26

23/02/2022 10:53

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

Q How do you ensure a work/life balance? A I am lucky enough to be in a job I absolutely love so I enjoy going to work, but I do think it is important to make time for family and friends and to keep myself healthy by going to the gym and walking with my dog, Ralph. Q Where do you live and what do you love about it? A I live in Woodford Green. I think it is lovely as it has a village atmosphere whilst being very close to Central London. I also love the abundance of lovely local cafes, restaurants and pubs as well independent shops all being surrounded by lots of forest and greenery. Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A To follow your passion because it’s much easier to work hard at something you love. To believe in yourself and persevere because if you want something enough then it will happen. It doesn’t matter how good you are at something, you still need to put the hard work in. houseofinteriors.com GEORGINA JENKINS

HAYLEY HUNT

Hayley Hunt BUSIN E SS: Boutique Estate Agency POSITION : Company Owner

Q When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up? A A singer/dancer. I love musical theatre and my family all do too, so we always enjoyed singing along to musicals when I was young. Q Was there a particular ‘Sliding Doors’ moment that shaped your career? A My career in property took off pretty much straight away when I chose this path. I never worked in an Estate Agency before opening my own agency, but being a natural salesperson it was very organic for me. I was a model for many years before. Q Tell us about the business you run today? A I run a fantastic boutique Estate Agency in Chigwell Road. We are a one-stop property services company, specializing in the prestigious gated development of Repton Park off Manor Road Chigwell, which is where I have lived for 20 years since it was developed. We sell beautiful highend properties, we also manage an enviable collection of rental properties, and we have a busy buildings and maintenance department. Q What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day work? A Definitely meeting new people all the time is a true blessing, we have so many lovely returning clients. It’s always nice to experience their wow moment

“DON'T LET ANY PERSON OR FEAR STOP YOU FROM DOING WHAT YOU REALLY LOVE. FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS”

when we show them a property that turns out to be their dream home. Q Out of work, where or when are you happiest? A At home in my ground floor apartment in Repton Park, it’s stunning. I like to relax with my partner, my son, and my little chihuahua Blossom. I’ve always made time to socialise and keep fit with my friends and family. I hold lots of BBQs in the summer, and me and my partner and son like to travel together for quality time. I love the sun! Q If you could go back in time and offer yourself one piece of advice, what would it be? A Follow your dreams! Don’t let any person or fear stop you from doing what you really love. I did let things stop me from pursuing the career I truly wanted, but I made a success of what I do today and I am very proud of my achievements. huntpropertyservices.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_WOMENINBUSINESS_MK.indd 27

23/02/2022 10:53

DINNER

date

Visit Essex suggests where to go to treat yourself to a foodie weekend

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_AREA FEATURE_MK.indd 28

23/02/2022 13:08

CULTURE • AREA FEATURE BRAXTED PARK'S COOKERY SCHOOL

PRESTED HALL

PONTLANDS PARK

WHERE TO STAY? Prested Hall

hinking about a weekend away, but not sure where to go or what to do? Why not try a foodie weekend where you can brush up on your culinary skills? It’s currently ‘the thing to do’, where you can meet-up with like-minded people and become a top chef too. Here are our picks of the best cookery schools across Essex.

Experience a world of food

Sign-up to the cookery school in the stunning grounds of Braxted Park (braxtedpark. co.uk) and, under the supervision of a top chef, you’ll soon be able to create an Asian feast. On the menu are pork and vegetable dumplings, salmon red curry with crispy skin, chicken green curry, Asian style meatballs, Thai spicy salad and Thai Jasmine rice, plus plenty more. The day begins at 9.30am and the chef will take keen students step-by-step GO FORAGING FOR WILD GARLIC

through how to make these tasty authentic dishes. The learning style is relaxed, fun and easy to follow and at the end of the day everyone joins together for a wellearned sit-down meal and a glass of wine. The Asian cookery course takes place on 19 March and is priced £145 per person. The Mistley Kitchen (mistleykitchen. com), set alongside the river Stour near Manningtree, also offers one-day cookery workshops for up to six participants and has courses taking place throughout the year. Seafood lovers will be wowed by their ‘Fish Basics’ class, which promises to take the ‘daunting’ out of cooking with fish. On the course you’ll learn easy tips for buying, storing and preparing fresh fish. You’ll also become a master at boning, steaking, scaling and filleting, as well as different techniques for cooking each fish. Delegates will be treated to the best catch of fresh fish on the day, such as sea bass, monkfish, skate, mackerel, or hake. The workshop will finish with a fishy lunch with a glass or two of wine. The ‘Fish Basics’ course takes place on 7 March and costs £135 per person. Get smart in the kitchen with past BBC Masterchef contestant, Ann Smart, who set-up the Ann’s Smart School of Cookery (annsmartschool.com). Smart’s school has a raft of different courses on offer and, if you have a sweet tooth, you should opt for the macaroon class. French macaroons have become uber trendy in recent years, and on this course you’ll learn to avoid all the pitfalls to ensure you cook to perfection every time. The course is based at Smart’s well-equipped kitchens in Danbury and is priced £99 per person and runs on the 2, 14 and 28 March between 11am-1pm.

Prested Hall (prested.co.uk) is a beautiful Grade II listed manor house nestled in 75 acres of tranquil Essex parkland, situated just a few miles from Braxted Park. The hotel offers comfortable beds, fine Egyptian cotton bed linen, fresh flowers as well as lots of personal touches to ensure a relaxing break. Rooms start from £150 for two adults and include breakfast.

•

Mistley Thorn The Mistley Thorn (mistleythorn.co.uk) is located in the centre of the historic coastal village of Mistley and is a short stroll from The Mistley Kitchen. Built as a coaching inn circa 1723, The Mistley Thorn offers award-winning dining and accommodation in tastefully designed surroundings opposite the River Stour. Rooms are priced from £135 for two adults and include a full breakfast.

•

P o n t l a n d s Pa r k Pontlands Park (pontlandsparkhotel. co.uk) is a short drive from the Ann’s Smart School of Cookery, and is a familyrun hotel providing a unique combination of homely comfort and exceptional service. Built in 1879, Pontlands Park features Victorian period architecture perfectly balanced with luxurious and contemporary design. Rooms are priced from £103.50 for two adults sharing an executive double room.

WHAT’S FRESH IN MARCH? Lots of locally grown vegetables are in season, such as artichoke, beetroot, cabbage, carrots, chicory, cucumber, leeks, parsnips, purple sprouting broccoli, radishes, sorrel, spring greens, spring onions and watercress. Rhubarb is also in season and a lovely fruit to make crumbles and pies. If you’re foraging for fresh foods, check out wild garlic, which can be found in dense clusters on the floor of damp woodland and along shaded hedgerows, but only pick sparingly. To discover more, visit visitessex.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_AREA FEATURE_MK.indd 29

23/02/2022 13:08

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

BUSINESSES NEED TO PREPARE FOR A RISE IN HMRC INVESTIGATIONS As the nation recovers from the impact of COVID-19, HMRC has started to ramp up compliance checks and tax investigations as the Treasury attempts to recover the substantial costs of the pandemic.

Contact Haslers if your business has been contacted by HMRC for an enquiry or compliance check.

haslers.com | 020 8418 3333

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 2

23/02/2022 11:56

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 goto 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

ABS_Essex_March22_ADV_CARNABY_use_MK.indd 31

23/02/2022 13:37

YOUR LOCAL INCHCAPE BMW DEALERSHIP IN COLCHESTER. COME AND EXPERIENCE THE STUNNING LINE UP OF FULLY ELECTRIC BMW MODELS, NOW AVAILABLE.

Take a look at our latest offers available across the new BMW car range. Choose your offer now before it’s gone. Contact us today on 01206 751100 for more information or to book a test drive. To redeem an offer please quote BMW22. Scan the QR code to view.

Inchcape Colchester BMW Ipswich Road, Colchester, Essex CO4 9TD. 01206 751100 Inchcape.co.uk/bmw

BMW_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1 DSB1761 - Q1 Absolute Essex Magazine Ad.indd 1

16/02/2022 12:28 11:30

CULTURE • EVENT

LET'S PLAY

BALL Looking at how the annual Courtauld Polo Trophy is making the sport accessible to all B y N ATA L I E L I

he Courtauld Polo Trophy, presented by Prestige & Village, is back and this year it’s bigger than ever. The prestigious event takes place at Silver Leys Polo Club on Sunday 22 May for an action-packed day of polo as BBC Radio 5 Live’s very own Johnny Barran commentates the highs and lows of Felsted vs Bishop’s Stortford, Queenswood vs St Edmunds and the big one, Essex vs Hertfordshire. In addition to the great sport itself, there will be a huge range of locally produced food and drink for guests to enjoy, plus entertainment that includes marching bands, a race between a horse and a Lamborghini (yes, really), traditional divot stomping, crazy golf and luxury shopping outlets. With a VIP Player’s Tent ticket and standard ticket to choose from, there is something for everyone at this year’s A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_POLO_v2_MK.indd 33

23/02/2022 17:08

Happy girls are successful girls Excellent academic value added 72% A*–B ﬁve year average at A-Level

‘Everything here is carefully considered’ – Tatler Schools Guide 2022 Door-to-door transport Flexi, weekly and full boarding ‘Pastoral care uniformly “phenomenal”’ – Good Schools Guide

Open mornings Saturday 17 September 2022 Wednesday 12 October 2022

ueenswood 1 8 9 4

A LEADING INDEPENDENT BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 11-18

BOOK NOW

queenswood.org/open-events 01707 602500 Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire AL9 6NS

Charity number 311060

Untitled-1 Untitled-11 11

22/02/2022 15:30 15:06

CULTURE • EVENT

“WE ARE BRINGING TOGETHER THE BEST ELEMENTS OF POLO WITH SOMETHING FOR ALL THE FAMILY” FELSTED SCHOOL

Courtauld Polo Trophy. Over the next few pages, we dig a little deeper into the thinking behind the event, find out why Felsted are well set for success in their school showdown and pick out some of the essential gear you need to buy if interested in taking part in the sport. Game on…

SPORT FOR ALL It’s billed as the sport of kings and it’s no wonder: polo is not a cheap game to take up. But organisers of the annual Courtauld Polo Trophy in Bishop’s Stortford want to show that there is much more to this seemingly elitist sport than meets the eye. “Polo gets a makeover! We’re bringing together the best elements of polo with something for the whole family,” explains Alex Rayner, event organiser of this year’s showcase. “Whether you’re a polo aficionado or eager to learn about the sport, there is plenty of high-octane equine action and much more to keep everyone entertained. We want to make the sport accessible for the whole family. Of course, there’s plenty of traditional elements such as divot stomping, in which the crowds charge across the churned grass to reduce the risk of falls during play and allow the ball to travel further.” Rayner, a former polo player himself who launched the event in 2018, and whose Argentine mother introduced him

Polo at Felsted Why the Essex school is well set for the big event Felsted is a leading independent, coeducational, boarding and day school for pupils aged 4-18, based in North Essex. Riding is a strong discipline at Felsted across all ages with riding lessons offered as a co-curricular activity option for Prep School pupils and pupils of all ages may be selected to compete in school competitions. Felsted is a member of the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA). Pupils who have their own ponies may be selected to compete for the school in NSEA shows in Show Jumping, Arena Eventing, Dressage or Eventer's Challenge. Recent achievements include qualifying for the National Finals for Show Jumping, Jumping with Style and Eventer's Challenge. Felsted Senior School pupils have the fantastic opportunity to learn and play polo at Silver Leys Polo Club as a cocurricular activity option and compete at national competitions for the school’s polo team. Several pupils have continued playing at university and beyond. Felstedians past and present regularly compete in the annual Courtauld Polo Trophy. It is always wonderful to have teams competing and in 2019 the Felsted team were crowned champions. In 2018 Felsted’s Sam Wisbey represented Great Britain in a Schools and Universities Polo Association U18 match against India.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_POLO_v2_MK.indd 35

23/02/2022 17:08

Quick guide to polo

The IT list Some must-have kit from the experts at Polo Splice

Tempted to play? Here's what you need to know

THERE WILL BE PLENTY OF REFRESHMENTS AND FOOD ON OFFER

Polo, like football, has two teams trying to get a ball into the opposing goal. Some players are strikers, and some are in defence, but you won’t see a goalie. Instead of kicking a ball the players ride on horses and hit the ball with mallets. Each game is split into ‘chukkas’ (usually six) so that the horses can be replaced before they get too tired. A chukka is a period of play in polo, lasting seven minutes.

HANDMADE ENGLISH LEATHER POLO SADDLE, £1,050

to the world of polo, is deeply passionate about promoting the sport and making it accessible for everyone. “Winston Churchill once eloquently said that a ‘polo handicap is the passport to the world’ and we want to show how thrilling the game is and we are reinventing this year’s event so it’s bigger and better. “There’ll be free polo lessons and the chance to learn about this gladiatorial sport – it’s a bit like football. There’s four players and two goals, but there’s so much more than this,” he adds. “Yes, polo has a reputation as a luxury sport, but it was originally played by British troops in India to hone their cavalry skills. It would be amazing to see more people taking up the sport.” General entrance tickets cost £20 for the whole day, and for those seeking a

“WE WANT TO SHOW HOW THRILLING THE GAME IS” luxury VIP experience tickets are £100 and include a champagne reception, a two-course lunch, afternoon tea and plenty of Pimm’s. Rayner says: “It’s been a roaring success in previous years and we’re expecting 1,500 general admission guests and 400 for the luxury VIP experience. It’s a high-quality event with incredible hospitality and a big nod to fresh, seasonal, local produce.” Visitors to the event can expect plenty

PREMIUM QUALITY KNEE PADS MADE BY THE BOOT MAKER CARLOS ARIEL LASCANO, £210

HANDMADE ARGENTINE LEATHER ZIPPED POLO BOOTS BY CARLOS ARIEL LASCANO, £595

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_POLO_v2_MK.indd 36

23/02/2022 17:08

Inspired by the sea, made by the sea. Free tours & tastings on Saturdays - book online. Shop open Fridays and Saturdays 10am - 3pm, stocking produce from great local suppliers. Get 10% off online with code ABSOLUT

Landermere Farm Buildings 3A, Landermere, Thorpe-le-Soken,CO16 0NH 01255 258833 | www.eastcoastdistillery.co.uk | hello@eastcoastdistillery.co.uk Untitled-1 1

18/02/2022 09:33

S TAY I N B E D The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

15 W I GM O RE ST REET I LO ND ON W1U 1PE I +44 ( 0) 20 3982 3252 I CAR PED IEMBED S.C O.UK CO P EN HAGEN

Untitled-1 1

GOT HENBURG

LOND ON

SEOUL

STOC KHOL M

Z UR IC H

AND OTHER FINE LOCATIONS

15/02/2022 11:43

XXXXXXXX • XXXXX

Polo history: in brief The first recorded polo tournament was in 600 B.C between the Turkomans and the Persians.

•

Polo as we know it today was brought back to Britain in the mid-19th Century by the officers of the British army.

•

Great Britain won gold in the polo tournament at the 1908 London Olympics. Polo’s last appearance as an Olympic sport was in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

of action from the country’s top polo players in the Prestige County Challenge Trophy as Essex and Hertfordshire polo players fight it out. The annual Courtauld Schools Trophy, named after Rayner’s philanthropic grandmother Elizabeth Courtauld, will see Felsted vs Bishop’s Stortford and Queenswood vs St Edmunds galloping head-to-head in another series of fast-paced matches. The evening will feature all female teams battling it out to take home the Ladies Trophy. BBC Radio 5 Live’s Johnny Barran will commentate on the live action, while DJs, bands, bouncy castles, slides, and crazy golf, plus a live performance from pop pianist Zoe Alexandria, will keep guests enthralled. “It will be an incredible day out with a twist,” Rayner adds. “The RAF skydiving team are parachuting in to drop the Prestige trophy into the venue along with the match ball – both will be presented to our chief umpire. There’ll be a race between a horse and a Lamborghini

“IT'S A DAY OUT FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES THE OUTDOORS AND THE START OF SUMMER CELEBRATIONS” – will four wheels beat four legs? “It’s a day out for anyone who loves the outdoors, it’s designed before the end of term craziness and the start of summer celebrations. It's a real chance to enjoy what we do best in Britain and enjoy watching the finest polo players we have in the land.” For more information and to book tickets visit courtauldpolo.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_POLO_v2_MK.indd 39

23/02/2022 17:08

MA.indd 1

19/01/2022 14:54

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

Zee & Co 42 • The Shoot 44 • Jewellery 49 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_Fashion Opener_PH.indd 41

23/02/2022 14:12

KAREN SEBLEY

Q&A F R O M

T O

ZEE

Karen Sebley, Zee & Co’s Loughton Ladies and Junior Store Manager, reﬂects on 35 years for the business, the lure of Essex and big plans for the future Q Who started Zee & Co and what inspired its launch? A Zee & Co was started by two good friends back in 1985. Spending their time outside of work, travelling into London and shopping at some of the most iconic stores, they had a dream to one day own their own multi–brand fashion store. They saw a gap for a luxury designer fashion store within the East End of London, for fashion-conscious consumers, and pursued the vision of making designer labels more accessible within the locality. Due to the success of Zee & Co in their original stores, they decided to open in several other areas. Still to this day, Zee & Co is owned by one of the original owners, and the DNA of the company’s original launch is maintained within the business. Q Was Loughton your first store? Why do you love having a store there? A Loughton wasn’t our first store. However, it has been recognised as our flagship store for many years. Zee & Co’s first store

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_Fashion Q&A_MK.indd 42

23/02/2022 13:32

FASHION • Q&A

A A super-hot label at the moment is Stand Studio; a contemporary fashion brand who design colourful faux fur coats for stylish women at affordable prices. They also have a great accessory collection. Also Redone Denim, which is an LA-based brand that celebrities such as Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid are wearing. It’s a sustainable jeans brand, and each pair is upcycled and completely unique. Q How have you coped during the pandemic? A Like most independent retailers, navigating through the pandemic was not an easy experience. Being on the high street for over 35 years, it was the first time we have ever closed our doors for a long period of time. However, due to our loyal client base, our customers still made purchases through our ever-growing online store, so that we could still provide a shopping experience to both our returning and new customers.

was actually located in Waltham Abbey, Essex. We then made the decision to close the doors at Waltham Abbey and move into Loughton, a bigger space, where we developed our loyal customer base. We also have stores located in Islington, Bethnal Green, and Ilford. We love the accessibility of Loughton. With its many neighbouring communities and being so close to London, we have an extremely diverse customer base that is forever growing through the generations. Q What kind of experience do you want to offer anyone visiting Zee & Co? A At Zee & Co, we take pride in our reputation for great customer service. Our long-standing managers and their teams will always make sure that each client walking through our doors is offered faultless service. Being a local independent business, we take pride in our uniqueness in the service we can provide. Our customers also have the option to shop in-store, or shop

from home and collect in-store using our Click & Collect service, which provides a seamless retail experience. We also stock a large selection of brands and designs that cater for a wide age group, meaning that anyone can come into our store, whether they need an outfit for the weekend, or a tracksuit for more casual days. Q What do you look for in the designers and fashion labels you stock? A Placing sportswear alongside contemporary fashion has always been important to the image of Zee & Co. We offer collections that are exciting, considered, wearable, sophisticated and classic enough for everyday wear. Looking towards the future, we are more conscious about sourcing sustainable and recycled materials such as brands like Veja, Redone and Birkenstock. Q As we approach S/S22, which designers or labels are hot right now?

Q Finally, what are your hopes for the future of Zee & Co? A The aim for us as a retailer is to maintain the high standard of trading we have already achieved throughout the years, and at the same time growing our global customer base through e-commerce and international ventures. Internally, Zee & Co have discussed designing their own brand, and this is a project that the company are keen to pursue. We feel with our experience in buying some of the best global collections, our fashion forward-thinking, and loyal customer base, we have all the fundamental ingredients of giving us the best chance to succeed. Investment would be key, and we are yet to decide whether this would be sourced internally or externally.

ZEE & CO 221-225 High Road, Loughton, IG10 1BB zeeandco.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_Fashion Q&A_MK.indd 43

23/02/2022 13:33

TO B O L D LY

GO Step into spring with the colourful POM Amsterdam, stocked at Annabelle in Colchester and N Shelley of Billericay P O M -A M S T E R DA M .C O M

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_SHOOT_MK.indd 44

23/02/2022 13:35

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_SHOOT_MK.indd 45

23/02/2022 13:35

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_SHOOT_MK.indd 46

23/02/2022 13:35

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_SHOOT_MK.indd 47

23/02/2022 13:36

Add a bit of luxury velvet with our collection of cushions and throws

SALES@RAGGEDROSE.COM | 01622 812897 | WWW.RAGGEDROSE.COM

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 3

23/02/2022 12:40

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Rainbow vision Colourful jewels for a brighter mood By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

MAYA GEMSTONES

KAVANT & SHARART

BUDREVICH

Ruler bracelet, £2,000 mayagemstones.com

18k yellow gold with Tsavorite earrings, £12,415 kavantandsharart.com

Versa blue ring, £2,750 budrevich.co.uk

CRYSTAL HAZE

EMILY P. WHEELER

BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

Aquamarine necklace, £79 crystalhazejewelry.com

Sunrise ombre ring, £7,000 emilypwheeler.com

18ct rose gold multi coloured sapphire & diamond shapes cluster pendant, £1,395, bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

DINNY HALL

BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

SIMONE ROCHA

Green tourmaline and diamond ring, £2,850 dinnyhall.com

18ct rose gold multi coloured sapphire & diamond cluster drop earrings, £995, bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Long cluster drop earrings, £275 simonerocha.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_JEWELLERY_MK.indd 49

23/02/2022 13:39

Specialists appointments from

£200*

Don’t let pain slow you down At The Holly Private Hospital you can access over 100 renowned experts in all fields of orthopaedics, sports medicine, spinal surgery, pain management, rheumatology, diagnostic imaging and physiotherapy. We offer all-inclusive self-pay packages, giving you peace of mind of knowing exactly how much your treatment will cost. With the latest technology and no waiting lists, you can access the treatment you need, at a time that suits you.

For self-pay prices call 0203 740 9770 email selfpay@theholly.com For appointments call 0203 432 5527 Visit theholly.com *Subject to availability

Untitled-1 1

TH693-FEB22-V1

07/02/2022 13:46

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.

Danielle Barnett 52 • Beauty Notes 55 • Brookside Aesthetics 57 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_BEAUTY_OPENER_PH.indd 51

23/02/2022 17:23

DANIELLE BARNETT

SECRET TO

HAPPINESS Whether through NLP or music, Essex-based Danielle Barnett – lead singer of Urban Cookie Collective – wants to make a connection By MARK KEBBLE

ften when you read about a star of the entertainment industry suddenly taking up a whole new career path, you instantly think the worse. Did they need to take some time out? Rehab even? Luckily neither is the case when asking Danielle Barnett, lead singer of the band Urban Cookie Collective, about why she wanted to learn about life coaching. “It was my son,” she says about her inspiration. Before, again, thinking the worse, allow Barnett to explain. “I wanted to be able to really help him if he ever needed it during his life journey. I had experienced a succession of health conditions throughout my life and decided to take an active interest in healing myself. I researched and talked to different therapists during my own healing journey and then a close friend suggested looking into

NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming). Once I discovered it, I didn’t want to stop learning more and more.” And Barnett did just that, taking a Masters course that saw her become a qualified NLP master practitioner, clinical hypnotherapist and life coach, which has led to running her own business. “This has always been a natural progression from what I do in everyday life anyway and, after qualifying, my business has grown naturally through word of mouth and recommendation,” she explains. “Life coaching has never really been about being a business, for me it has always been about following my heart and living my true purpose.” Barnett’s services have arguably never been more important due to what we have all lived through over the last two years. “During the pandemic I made it a point to try and help as many people as I could, so I wrote, edited and recorded two online courses, which included an anxiety

course,” she says. “Throughout history there have been challenges with mental health, but thankfully in these times it is spoken about much more openly. It’s important to know that you are not alone and there is always someone there to talk to if help is needed, but lockdown did amplify the mental health situation greatly for many people.” Does her background in music help at all? “Music is therapy in itself,” Barnett states, “it focuses emotions and stirs feelings of happiness and nostalgia to a wide range of people.” There isn’t any sense that she’d rather not talk about Urban Cookie Collective, probably best known for their hit single The Key, The Secret. “The band is incredibly important to me,” she points out. “I feel at my best in life when I’m connecting and Urban Cookie Collective gives me a way to connect with thousands of people all the time.” You can’t help but feel uplifted being in

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_H&B_PROFILE_MK.indd 52

23/02/2022 13:44

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROFILE

“Music is therapy in itself. It focuses emotions and stirs feelings of happiness and nostalgia”

Barnett’s presence, with such positivity in our conversation, which extends to her home county too. “Essex is the perfect blend of rural and urban living, and the people are warm and open,” she smiles. “I am also very near my family and we are an integral support system to each other. My son is lucky enough to go to a brilliant secondary school in Epping, where he is thriving. My roots are here and I am happy.” She prefers to live in the moment rather than looking too far into the future, so how does it feel when she is able to help her clients? “I feel blessed,” she says, “and experience the same emotions of peace,

happiness and freedom as my clients do when they have their breakthrough moments. For me, life is about connection. I feel the same emotions watching my clients’ bloom as I do when I perform on stage in front of 10,000 people. “Health and happiness is everything to me,” she concludes. “I am very grateful to have a multitude of gigs and public speaker bookings in for the next year, which I am very much looking forward to. However, I do have another goal… I want to open a therapy retreat in the future, so watch this space!” DanielleBarnett.coach

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_H&B_PROFILE_MK.indd 53

23/02/2022 13:45

Untitled-2 1

22/02/2022 17:42

HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare B y EVE HERBERT

BROW

FOCUS

TIMELY TREAT

perfection B O B B I B R OW N

For the special lady in your life...

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

his March, give the leading lady in your life the ultimate pampering experience with the She’s Worth It Package from Vie Derma. Choose from two of their exclusive packages featuring some of their most luxurious treatments and products – perfect for spoiling someone special or treating yourself to some self-care, something we all deserve from time to time. Opt for the Exquisite Essentials package made up of Vie Derma’s Express Vie AquaFacial, Nourishing Time Massage and HydraPerfection Travel Kit equipped with nourishing cleansing milk, revitalising toner and extreme moisturising cream. Or, for something even more lavish, select their Relaxing Rituals package inclusive of their Signature Vie AquaFacial, Tranquillity Massage and a complete Comfort Zone kit made up of luxury body care products and a candle for your home. Celebrate the women in your life whether that be for International Women’s Day, Mother’s Day or just as a ‘Random Act of Kindness’: treat your mum, nan, sister or friend today and show her just how much she means to you because, at the end of the day, she’s worth it.

VIE DERMA To purchase one of the ‘She’s Worth It’ Pamper Packages get in touch on 01268 778 615 or visit vie-derma.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_BEAUTY NOTES_MK.indd 55

23/02/2022 13:42

Untitled-1 1

23/02/2022 10:56

HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

GOOD

vibrations Are you feeling low on energy? The founder of Brookside Aesthetics spreads some cheer By KAREN CHESTER

f you've been feeling a little low or irritated lately, there's a chance your energy is out of balance. 'Vibration' refers to your personal energy, and ways to raise your vibration have been identified as an emerging wellness trend. Humans are made up of energy – just like everything in the universe – and according to the theory of energy medicine, everything and everyone vibrates at a specific frequency. These vibrations influence our physical state and wellbeing as everything, including us, is made of energy, always moving and constantly changing. So, when our vibration is high, we feel happier, positive and feel more love. But when our vibration is low, and the energy is stagnated, then it's a sign you need to raise your vibration. If you're keen to boost your vibes and tap into a new level of energy, here are some simple things you can try.

“VIBRATIONS INFLUENCE OUR PHYSICAL STATE AND WELLBEING AS WE'RE MADE OF ENERGY”

MOVE YOUR BODY Experts agree one of the best ways to raise your vibration is through movement. If you're not physically moving, your energy will be sluggish, meaning you will have low vibration, so raising your physical activity is essential. However, it doesn't have to be intense exercise.

MUSIC OFFERS POSITIVE VIBES

ESSENTIAL OILS CAN RAISE YOUR VIBRATION

MEDITATE FOR SOME POSITIVE VIBES

Using the right essential oils is an easy way to lift your vibration. A good one is pure frankincense oil – wear it on your clothes or use it in an oil diffuser.

Ten minutes of meditation a day is beneficial. You don't have to meditate for hours. It's just about bringing in that focus and attention to your breath and heart space.

JOT DOWN YOUR THOUGHTS FOR GOOD ENERGY

TAP INTO CRYSTAL POWER

Writing in a diary has proven benefits for mental health, with research showing it improves your mood. This also makes it an excellent choice for uplifting your energy.

DE-CLUTTER Buddhists like to say that your environment can reflect your mental environment. Thus, keeping your home clean and clutter-free is a great way to help clear your mind.

MUSIC Listen to music and turn up the stereo or play an instrument. Some calming tunes can increase the vibrations in your home immeasurably.

GOOD FOOD BRINGS GOOD VIBRATIONS Wellbeing usually starts with what we're putting into our mouths, so it's no surprise diet impacts your vibrations too. Processed foods lower your vibration. Instead, you should be eating as much fresh food as you can and nutrientdense foods that will make you feel really good. Make it as colourful as you can.

Crystals are universal, and they're easy to buy and very readily available. You can put them in water, wear them as jewellery, or you can put them by your bed. You can choose any type of crystal, but the well-known energy crystals include amethyst, clear quartz, rose quartz and citrine crystals.

REMOVE ALCOHOL FOR A GOOD FEELING Alcohol is fun and can be freeing, but many use it to dampen down or "numb" our real feelings. Getting rid of drinking will lift your vibration, no longer burying your feelings, to help you embrace what's real.

TREAT YOURSELF TO SOME HOLISTIC CARE Reiki is another popular choice for energy healing. This method helps with improving the flow of energy in and around the body. BROOKSIDE AESTHETIC S Karen Chester is the founder of Brookside Aesthetics in Chelmsford. Find out more by calling 01245 363889 or visiting brookside-aesthetics.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_BROOKSIDE_MK.indd 57

23/02/2022 13:40

FREE TRIAL CLASS

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

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

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

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

The best way to improve your physical and mental wellbeing is the F45 Noak Hill 8 Week Challenge. The ultimate high-intensity, circuit-based group training concept is designed by leading instructors to leave you feeling leaner, stronger and fitter than you ever imagined. Save £50 with an Early Bird Discount. Book your Free Health Consultation and Complimentary 1 Day Trial Session by emailing: Noakhill@f45training.co.uk Challenge starts on the 25th April 2022 - but you can get a head start on your training with a two week trial - available now! Challenge starts on the 25th April 2022.

For more information visit: f45training.co.uk/noakhill

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 4

The programme includes: •

Free health consultation

•

Free trial session - try the concept with no commitment Unlimited access to over 50 classes per week - suitable for beginners and advanced trainers. Daily class rotation - zero repetition!

•

Daily structured, simple meal plans, suitable for all diet types Weekly 1-2-1 accountability and goal tracking with before and after body scans and photos - essential for tracking progress

•

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

23/02/2022 11:56

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP THERE COULD BE VARIOUS REASONS FOR THAT RINGING IN YOUR EARS

“Up to 30% of people have tinnitus at some point in their life” disorder, such as an ear infection, ear injury or swelling affecting the hearing system. To diagnose what type of tinnitus you have, your doctor asks about your medical history, examines you and may arrange hearing or imaging tests.

4. There are ways to cope with the emotional impact of tinnitus

S A

O U N D V I C

D E

Tinnitus: ﬁve things that you need to know about ringing ears B y N I T E S H PAT E L

innitus is when you hear noises, such as ringing or buzzing, that are not caused by sounds from the outside world. Here are five important facts about tinnitus:

1. Tinnitus is a symptom and not a disease Tinnitus is not normally a sign of anything serious. The sounds that do not come from an outside source are often described as ringing, whooshing, humming or buzzing. They can also be rhythmic or even musical. You may hear these sounds in one ear, both ears, or the head.

2. Many people experience tinnitus

People of all ages, including children, can experience tinnitus. Up to 30% of people

(that is, one in three) have tinnitus at some point in their life. Although tinnitus is usually more common in older people with hearing loss, younger people increasingly experience tinnitus. During the coronavirus pandemic, there has been a big increase in tinnitus cases. These cases may be triggered by stress and poor quality sleep.

Tinnitus is usually worse when you focus your attention on the sound or are stressed. Learning to focus attention away from the sound can reduce the emotional impact of tinnitus. Other ways of coping are improving the quality of your sleep and practising relaxation techniques.

5. There are treatment options for tinnitus

Secondary tinnitus linked to an active ear disorder often improves after you have treatment for that ear disorder. This may involve: removing wax that blocks the ear canal (the passage to the eardrum), treating an ear infection, having surgery for a treatable cause of hearing loss. Primary tinnitus is not harmful, but persistent ringing in the ears can affect your quality of life. There are various hearing (audiological) and psychological treatments to help reduce and control the brain nerve signals that cause the tinnitus. If you have tinnitus regularly and this disrupts your daily life, the specialist team at The Holly Private Hospital can give you expert advice.

3. Most cases of tinnitus are caused by nerval signals in the brain

If you develop tinnitus without an active condition that affects your hearing, it is called primary tinnitus. This type of tinnitus is caused by electrical signals in the brain. Any stressful experiences as a result of a physical illness, injury or emotional upset can make your brain overactive and trigger tinnitus. Secondary tinnitus is much less common. This occurs with an active or acute ear

N I T E S H PAT E L is a Consultant Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon and has clinics at The Holly Private Hospital. To book an appointment with him, please call 020 3504 8481

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_March22_ESSEX_ADV_H&B_HOLLY_HOUSE_MK.indd 59

23/02/2022 12:58

LT.indd 1 1 Untitled-1

22/10/2021 18/02/2022 15:39 12:36

FOOD & DRINK

FINE DINING D I S H PATC H We all would love to be able to cook like the very best out there, but the second best option is to have their talents delivered to your door. Dishpatch have signed up a new Michelin starred chef to their roster, turn over the page to find out more.

Food Notes 62 • Daygustation 64 • Recipes 66 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_FOOD OPENER.indd 61

23/02/2022 13:49

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

The latest launches and news from across Essex By MARK KEBBLE

By Il Vino

Domaine de la solitude Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2020, Rhone  £45 A rich and opulent wine with ripe blackcurrant aromas layered with ﬂoral notes. Full bodied, but with a soft texture on the palate. Ripe fruits combine with notes of cocoa and cherry and a hint of liquorice on the ﬁnish.

Domaine de Bosquets Gigondas 2018, Rhone  £35 A complex nose of sweet blackberries, red plums, roasted Provençal herbs and macerated cherries. On the palate, it is medium to full bodied, with good structure, beautiful tannins and a clean ﬁnish.

Domaine BressyMasson Rasteau 2018, Rhone, 2020  £24 A juicy, enticing wine from one of the lesser know Rhone appellations with smooth tannins and an intense blackberry fruit character lifted by aromas of Provençal herbs. A bit of a discovery and excellent value.

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

ilvino.co.uk

Doorstep dining D I S H PATC H

Fancy some food from a Michelin starred chef in the comfort of your own home? Dishpatch has got you covered as they announce their latest partnership with Tom Kerridge, delivering a menu of elevated classics to kitchens across the county. The menu is ﬁlled with comforting, familiar dishes to help perk up even the dullest of spring evenings; from the Truffled Tunworth Gougères savoury snack, to Ale Braised Short Rib. dishpatch.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_FOOD NOTES_MK.indd 62

23/02/2022 13:28

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

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

GREEN’S

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

WILD THING THE FLITCH OF BACON

With the seasons changing and the ground coming back to life, at The Flitch of Bacon in Little Dunmow to produce the best of the best they have been out foraging for the ﬁrst of the season’s wild garlic, which is smaller, stronger and purer from farmed garlic. When you can have such beautiful ingredients, stunning dishes follow. ﬂitchofbacon.co.uk

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

F A R M

T O

FORK

DEERSBROOK FARM

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

Throughout the year Deersbrook Farm hold special events with the amazing chef, Alan Paton, creating seasonal menus. The ﬁrst this year is a sensational meal with a choice of ﬁne wines and craft ales, to celebrate The Great British Beef Week coming up in April. deersbrookfarm.com

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

On 1 February, Honest Burgers – with venues located around the West Essex area - 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 glutenfree pastry straws, bacon gravy, mushroom duxelles, baby spinach and pickles, a snip at £14 including a portion of homemade rosemary chips on the side. honestburgers.co.uk

SW E E N EY & TO D D This restaurant 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 true pie institution. If you have not yet tried the one of their famous pies, then you have not lived. sweeneyandtodd.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_FOOD NOTES_MK.indd 63

23/02/2022 13:28

EXPECT TO FIND THE FINEST WINES AT DAYGUSTATION

THE PERFECT

PAIRING Why Matt Day’s passion for wine and Wanstead High Street have proved to be a marriage made in heaven By MARK KEBBLE

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_F&D PROFILE_MK.indd 64

23/02/2022 13:30

FOOD & DRINK • Q&A

open the shop. Wanstead has a great high street with an independent quality butcher, fishmonger, greengrocer and baker – a wine merchant was the missing link. Q What did you initially offer? A Daygustation is a wine shop for local

QUALITY CHEESES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE

“We sell real wines that taste of the grape and place that they come from” Q Pre-Daygustation, what were you involved in? A I started my wine career at Majestic Wine in 1998 and, tired of stacking boxes, I moved to the Rheingau, Germany in 1999 to work as an apprentice winemaker. On my return, I landed a dream job as tastings manager for the world’s first ever wine website WineToday.com (The New York Times Group) working alongside industry legend Oz Clarke. I started writing about wine in 2000 and in 2002 won the UK Young Wine Writer of the Year award. I have since contributed to titles including Esquire, Olive and jancisrobinson.com, and have presented wine segments on Sky One, Radio 2 and LBC London. From 2002-2006 I worked as a wine specialist for the Michelin starred MARC group, with restaurants in London (Umu, Greenhouse) and New York with some of the most extensive wine lists in the world. Working with the sommeliers at each location gave me a detailed knowledge of fine wine, wine lists and fine dining. In 2006 I moved into PR and have since worked with generic bodies (Champagne Information Bureau, Sherry Information Bureau, Wines of Germany) and companies including Rémy Martin, Laurent-Perrier, G.H. Mumm, Perrier-Jouët and Aldi. My specialist area is food and drink pairing and I have worked with many brands including Dark Horse (Gallo), Castello Cheese, Jacobs Crackers, Premier Foods, Peperami and Ferrero Rocher to develop thought-provoking pairings. My most memorable project was Café de Mort: a pop-up restaurant fronted by Gregg Wallace serving a menu of potentially

lethal dishes including Japanese puffer fish. I have also worked as an ambassador for Castello Cheese, developing innovative recipes and drinks pairings, and demonstrating in the live theatres at shows including BBC Good Food and Ideal Home. And for four years I worked as part of the team developing Corkscrew, a wine app to help consumers find the perfect wine in UK and US supermarkets and wine retailers. Q What inspired the launch of the shop? A I opened Daygustation Wines in October

2020 after COVID terminated my ongoing contracts in PR, tech and events. I am based in Forest Gate, but my daughters go to school in Wanstead. I have spent the last ten years wondering why there isn’t an independent wine shop on the High Street. COVID has been pretty disastrous for many businesses, including my own, but on the bright side lockdown has given me the time to get my act together and

people offering a relaxed wine shopping experience with truthful, unpretentious service. We specialise in delicious wines from small, quality-driven producers at every price point. As well as wines, we also sell a small range of interesting beers, Japanese saké, small-batch spirits and grown up soft drinks. In the chiller you will find stinky cheese from La Fromagerie, charcuterie from Chefs Deli (Bombetta), olives and other nibbles from Brindisa. Q How have you evolved since then? A We started off with a small range

of 100 wines and now have more than 400. We listened to our customers and have added wines that they wanted to see on the shelf. We are constantly evolving the wine list and changing the food offering to see what works. Q How do you decide on the wine producers you work with? A We sell 'real' wines that taste of the grape and place they come from. We have tasted every wine we sell and selected it as we think it is the best, most delicious example of that grape from that place in the world. Too much choice isn’t necessarily a good thing – most supermarkets have 20+ Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs, we have one, the one we think offers you the best taste at a reasonable price. Q What was the thinking behind the wine counter out at the front of the shop? A The counter is based on our experience of wine bars in Italy. A place where you can drink really good wine, and eat cheese, charcuterie and other snacks. The format means that people have to talk to each other and usually by the end of the evening everyone is sitting together sharing bottles of wine! Q What kind of events do you hold in the tasting room? A We offer a four-week Introduction to Wine Tasting Course, which starts on the first Wednesday of every month (priced at £200). Also, we run frequent Cheese and Wine Masterclasses with eight fine wines matched to eight different cheeses from La Fromagerie. Q What are your plans for 2022? A Have a holiday! We have just launched

Essex-wide delivery with Click It Local. MATT DAY

daygustationwines.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_F&D PROFILE_MK.indd 65

23/02/2022 13:30

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

Gang

CULTURE

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_RECIPES_MK.indd 66

23/02/2022 13:44

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

ABS_Essex_MAR22_RECIPES_MK.indd 67

23/02/2022 13:44

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_RECIPES_MK.indd 68

23/02/2022 13:45

IL Vino Our new tasting room is now open for private and corporate events. Carefully selected outstanding wines from around the world, paired with delicious meats & cheeses for a truly memorable experience. Give us a call to discuss your requirements.

28 Queens Road Buckhurst Hill  020 8504 8799

Untitled-2 1

22/02/2022 15:58

FINE WINE and WHISKY STOICALLY STABLE Amidst global stock market volatility

ine wine and rare whisky are two of an exclusive group of luxury goods that have stood up to the severe hit to assets triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. As a consequence of this global emergency we have seen an unprecedented appetite from wellheeled buyers from all over the world, re-confirming wine and whisky as the two most rewarding investments on the Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index over the past 5-year and 10-year periods. “With stable and solid performance of both wine and whisky we are seeing investors flocking to us, seeking to diversify their wealth and move away from the more traditional asset classes that have tumbled in recent times,” comments Robert Whipple, Director of Sales of London Barrelhouse. With interest rates at historic lows, investors globally are finding it hard to find a good source of solid returns. Wine and whisky offer a fantastic addition to

anyone’s overall investment portfolio because it has a low propensity to lose value during market turbulence. Whiskies from the finest distilleries in the world have increased in value by a colossal 580% since 2008 and have risen over 40% in the previous 12 months alone. Wine has turned out to be the perfect partner for whisky collectors, increasing by a mammoth 147% in value for the same period. “These assets help investors to diversify, hedge and do undoubtedly provide a tax efficient safe haven,” says Peter Charalambos, co-founder of London Barrelhouse. Amid the coronavirus crisis, the resilience we are seeing in the market should come as good news to both private investors as well as several large corporations with sizeable interest in investment grade wine and whiskies. An investment wine or whisky is nothing like an ordinary drink. Let’s be clear, it often carries a premium price, global brand recognition and high scores from the likes of Robert Parker Jnr and James Suckling. Price appreciation emerges

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ONLINE_VERSION.indd 70

01/03/2022 09:14

FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

WHISKY OFFERS A REAL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

“Investors are seeking to diversify their wealth and move away from the more traditional asset classes that have tumbled recently”

not just with maturing in the bottle, but moreover as bottles get drunk, the scarcity factor pushes prices further up. It’s been a great start to the year for London Barrelhouse as they continue to spread their wings on a global scale, meeting the demand for their clients not just at home but abroad. They have opened their first international office in Singapore, and this is the first of several international offices planned to meet demand globally, with a strong focus on South East Asia. Amid the recent global equity meltdown, investor interest has significantly increased. One of the key benefits that London Barrelhouse offer aside from their

knowledge, market expertise and best in class storage is the industry's first Buy Back policy. “We have implemented this new policy to offer our clients additional comfort and confidence when trading with ourselves,” says Tony Charalambos, co-founder. “It has been warmly received by clients and shows that we as Directors stand firmly behind our brand and industry.” Exciting times lay ahead for London Barrelhouse as they continue to rapidly grow and expand their global reach. LO N D O N B A R R E L H O U S E LT D 020 4518 1333 londonbarrelhouse.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ONLINE_VERSION.indd 71

01/03/2022 09:15

A Unique Farm to Fork Experience at Deersbrook Farm Upcoming Events Dining at Deersbrook - Great British Beef Week Tasting menu Dining at Deersbrook - Rare Breed Pork & Big Bear Cider pairing Dining at Deersbrook - Spice Queen’s Indian Feast Open Farm Sunday - Open Day see online for details and reservation

Celebrate the Great British beef Week with us on Thursday 28th April from 7pm Tickets are £48 pp for drinks on arrival and a three course meal using fresh local produce and wine or artisan ales for pairing. Receive a goody bag (worth £15) with every Great British Beef Meal booking. Using promotion code Absolutely@Deersbrook, Full bar available. Booking essential.

DEERSBROOKE_HP_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

15/02/2022 14:41

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

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

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 5

23/02/2022 11:56

FOOD & DRINK • DRINKS

Refreshing CHANGE New Breed is an independent drinks shop like no other. We chat to co-owners Mikey O’Kane and Neil Datta to ﬁnd out how they did it By MARK KEBBLE

NEIL DATTA AND MIKEY O'KANE

THE CHOICE IS EXCLUSIVE AND EXTENSIVE

Q When did you open New Breed and what inspired it? A Neil Datta (ND): We opened our doors in Loughton on 22 December, 2020. Mikey and I have been into craft beers, natural wines and drinks that are a bit more under the radar than the mass produced products that are generally available. We were travelling up to London or buying online to feed our enthusiasm and thought why wouldn’t a bottle shop type venue work in our area? We asked that question continually for about four years before finally pushing the button in the middle of a global pandemic! Q I have always enjoyed discovering new beers, getting a thrill when I find something that tastes wonderful – in a nutshell, is that the kind of experience New Breed offers? A ND: Absolutely! We have fridges filled with beers from the best breweries from the UK and beyond, and eight draught taps that are changing constantly, and we love helping customers find what suits their taste best. Q How do you decide on what you stock? A Mikey O’Kane (MO): We spend a lot of

our time meeting with potential suppliers, which means that we are constantly sampling. It’s a tough job, but somebody has to do it! When we bring on board a new supplier we have a strict checklist. Obviously the product needs to taste great, but we look to work with suppliers

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

that are independent and sustainability conscious that reflect our passion for the industry we work in. Research plays a huge role in finding the best suppliers and the most interesting products. Q Do you have particular favourites right now? A MO: I am currently loving a co-ferment beer from Wildflower Brewery in Australia. They have a range of co-fermented beers, but Zibeerbo is my favourite. Zibeerbo 2020 is a golden barrel-matured Australian Wild Ale aged with Muscat of Alexandria (the Zibibbo grape) skins after six months on wine in terracotta amphora. It delivers a cross between a delicate, zippy, refreshing beer and the dry thirst quenching minerality from a

zibibbo wine. Different, but absolutely incredible with a bit of fish or a salad. ND: I can’t get enough of a Catalonian natural wine producer called Costador Metamorphika. They produce an outstanding range of orange wines, whites and juicy to full bodied reds. Right now I am loving the white Chenin Blanc 2020. A beautifully fresh but robust Chenin Blanc that benefits from a little grape skin contact. Aromatic with notes of pear, lime, kerosene and beeswax on the nose. It goes well on its own, but is the perfect accompaniment to a cheese board. The bottles are clay too with a waxed top, so they look amazing on the side at home when you’re finished with the wine. Q For anyone who tends to buy their drinks at a supermarket or off licence, how would you persuade them to visit you? A MO: Lockdown has helped in this respect as I think that people had more time to think about what was in their glass and where it came from. People tried new things and there has been a realisation that the mass produced, industrial sized beers and wines that the supermarkets have to offer are just not a great representation of what is actually out there. We are all about making our outstanding products more accessible.

287 High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 1AH newbreedbottleshop.com (nationwide delivery), @NewBreedBottleShop A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_ADV_DRINKS_MK.indd 73

23/02/2022 13:47

Experience the Gosfield Difference Gosfield is an independent co-educational through School set within 110 acres of beautiful parkland, where children have the space to grow, are inspired by the breadth of opportunities and achieve outstanding results within an environment where nurturing relationships are at the heart of all that we do.

admissions@gosfieldschool.org.uk www.gosfieldschool.org.uk GOSFIELD_SCHOOL_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

17/02/2022 09:05

E D U C AT I O N

STAGE IS SET FO R E ST S C H O O L

Set in a wonderful location in Snaresbrook, everything at Forest School is for the benefit of the individual pupil. Whether this is their high quality approach to teaching or offering a host of opportunities outside of the classroom, the pupil comes first – and flourishes. forest.org.uk

Future Talent 79 • Talking Head 81 • Mark Bailey 84 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_Education_Opener_MK.indd 75

23/02/2022 13:23

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_EDUCATION_FEATURE_MK.indd 76

23/02/2022 13:48

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

ABS_Essex_MAR22_EDUCATION_FEATURE_MK.indd 77

23/02/2022 13:48

Forest is a large, vibrant, co-educational independent school that offers outstanding academic progress and personal development, award-winning pastoral care, and an engaging and comprehensive co-curriculum. Forest benefits from a tremendous location, surrounded by ancient forest but situated within a wonderfully diverse part of North-East London with 30 acres of grounds. Forest - Where People Grow 0208 520 1744 | E17 3PY | www.forest.org.uk | admissions@forest.org.uk

FOREST_SCHOOL_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

17/02/2022 11:14

EDUCATION • TALENT XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Active imagination Prep Lead at Avon House Preparatory School, Mr J Manning, discusses encouraging pupils out of class and looks at one talented pupil’s achievements

Q What kind of county and national quizzes does the school get involved in? A We are signed up to Quiz Club, the largest inter-school competition in the country, which offers a unique and exciting way to inspire and reward our pupils in their quest for knowledge by competing in interschool competitions locally, regionally and nationally. We also participate in the Primary Maths Challenge and several competitions run by the Independent Schools Association.

H I G H AC H I E V E R

Ritisha’s accomplishments at a glance

Q Why are these helpful to the development of your pupils? A At Avon House Preparatory School, we are focused on celebrating and supporting every pupil. In order to do this, we place a great value on our children competing in a range of disciplines – including sport, academic, music and drama. Not only does this encourage pupils to develop the values of critical thinking and performance, but also we recognise the pride they take in representing the school, which is translated in their work within the classroom. Q How satisfying is it when you see a pupil like Ritisha thrive academically? A As a teacher, I am keen that all pupils achieve their full potential and where I can, help support and encourage them to do this. Ritisha consistently applies the key principles of a successful learner – listening in class, following instructions and challenging herself, so it is no surprise that she has thrived academically. Q She also has quite a lengthy list of hobbies and sports she excels in. How important is what happens outside the classroom for the development of your pupils?

Academic: Ritisha has an excellent excellent track record when it comes to her performance in the Internal Assessments during Prep. In addition of scoring full marks in mathematics across multiple terms and years, she has participated and won prizes in mathematics quizzes across Essex and at national level.

RITISHA IS A STAR PERFORMER

A It is crucial. We are advocates of character education here at Avon House. The aim of character education is for the individual to flourish and for this to happen, they must gain experience and understanding of a wide range of values. These values are often discovered and highlighted through activities both within and outside of school. When pupils engage in activities outside of the school, we have seen first-hand that it can have a positive impact on the child’s academic performance.

avonhouseschool.co.uk

Sports & Games: During the last two years where a lot of learning shifted to virtual sessions, Ritisha developed great interest in chess and excelled. Ritisha participated in a number of 4 Nations Tournaments and won a number of games for her team. Ritisha is a sports aficionado and has been actively learning a number of them including, but not limited to, cricket, football, netball, hockey, American golf, and bowling. Hobbies: Recently, Ritisha has been learning to play an electric guitar as well as improve her proficiency in French and Hindi languages. She has also been excelling her skills in different forms of art like finger painting, sponge painting, glass paintings and doodling.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_EDUCATION_FUTURE_TALENT_MK.indd 79

23/02/2022 13:10

7+ ENTRANCE EXAM & SCHOLARSHIP Applications now open

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

AH.indd 1

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 6

22/10/2021 16:18

23/02/2022 11:56

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD

MAKING HISTORY Katherine Jeffrey, the Principal of New Hall School in Chelmsford, discusses what it means to be in post for two decades

Q How long have you been Principal of New Hall School? A The start of 2022 was a special anniversary, marking 20 years’ as Principal at New Hall. I still remember my first visit, in 2001, thinking that I had taken a wrong turn, as I drove along the historic mile-long Avenue, under the stunning canopy of the lime trees. My first glimpses of the former Tudor palace that is New Hall’s main building took my breath away. It was hard to believe that this was a school. Magnificent cedar trees frame part of the Grade I listed buildings and everywhere you look you get this incredible sense of the New Hall story and its different chapters

down the ages. There is a heady mix of tradition and innovation, which makes New Hall an exciting place to be. All this is just 30 minutes by train from London, with a new station due to open by the school’s entrance in 2025. Q The school seems to have quite a unique history… A It certainly does, and a long one too. It’s not often you get to live and work in an early-1500s Tudor palace, with many of its original features. From its earliest days as Henry VIII’s Palace of Beaulieu, the site has many stories to tell, including use as a WWII field hospital. New Hall was founded in Liège in 1642, as

a Catholic school, with a distinctive and radical mission for the education of girls. The school moved to the Boreham site, near Chelmsford, in 1799. In 2013, New Hall became the first independent school to sponsor a primary academy; today, Messing Primary School is a happy and flourishing village school, run by New Hall’s Multi-Academy Trust. Q Today, in a nutshell, what does New Hall School offer? A At New Hall you find a warm welcome and an inclusive, integrated community. This is a place where everyone is valued and relationships are based on Gospel values of care, trust and respect. We believe that every single one of our students has unique gifts and talents and, if they arrive here not yet knowing what these are, we will discover them and help them to develop to realise their potential. How do we achieve this? Our teachers are inspirational. The curriculum and co-curriculum give breadth and challenge – students can pick from hundreds of activities beyond the classroom, including in evenings and at weekends. Q Why have you adopted the Diamond Model? A There was a new and exciting expression of the pioneering spirit of New Hall’s founders in 2006, with the decision to become more inclusive by opening our doors to senior age boys. Today, New Hall operates an unusual and highly successful ‘diamond model’ structure, i.e. co-education in the Nursery and Preparatory Divisions (1-11) and Sixth Form, with single-sex teaching in the Girls’ & Boys’ Divisions (11-16). In this way, New Hall provides the best of both worlds in two ways. First, we have the benefits of a coA B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_EDUCATION_TALKING_HEAD_MK.indd 81

23/02/2022 13:25

EDUCATION • TALKING HEAD THEY ARE STRONG AT SPORTS

“Under the Diamond Model, girls and boys perform equally well in assessments in all subjects”

KATHERINE JEFFREY

educational environment together with the advantages of girls and boys being taught separately during adolescence. The provision of five years of singlesex teaching enables students to grow in confidence, whilst enjoying an education that is specifically tailored and that recognises the different ways in which girls and boys learn. Secondly, we have the benefits of a small school (our six small Divisions), where every child is known and affirmed, alongside the excitement and opportunities of being a big and well-resourced school (with 1,500 students). The benefits of teaching girls and boys separately at a key stage of their development in the teenage years are unparalleled – under the Diamond Model, girls and boys perform equally well in assessments across all subjects, with no gender stereotyping of subjects. When it comes to socialisation, most co-curricular activities and social events are mixed, allowing for excellent preparation for a co-educational Sixth Form experience and the world of higher education and careers. Q How would you sum up the boarding experience at New Hall School? A New Hall boarding is distinctive in that most boarders have single-study bedrooms and the four Boarding Houses are a wonderful mix of magnificent heritage buildings and modern, purposebuilt facilities. We have a popular, flexible boarding model, with students from Years 3-13 able to board 1-7 nights a week. As a large school of 1,500, we have

A WORLD OF DISCOVERY

the scale to provide a rich co-curricular programme and exceptional pastoral support, throughout the evenings and at weekends. Our boarding community enjoy first-class facilities and heritage parkland and gardens that are in the top 2% in England. We even have a small farm on site, and peacocks and ducks roam the grounds and occasionally sneak into the Refectory! Our boarders, whether they stay with us full time or on a flexible basis, constantly tell us how much fun it is. Many local students opt to board on one or two of their busiest nights, before Swim Academy training or Saturday morning dance lessons, but some board only for their favourite social nights, such as Milkshake Mondays in Petre House, Wonderland Tea Parties in Hawley, or Wednesday’s Sixth Form socials in Dennett and Campion Houses. The privilege of boarding takes a holistic education to another level. Living and working alongside your peers, making friends in other year groups and learning to trust and respect the adults who care for

you gives young people confidence, independence and organisational skills. In a Catholic school, the family is recognised as the primary educator, so our goal is to complement the role of the parents, providing a wider network of support and opportunities, to give each child the best start in life. Q What are you looking forward to in the months to come? A Open Mornings are always fun and the next one is on the last Saturday in April. Our sports teams have some national and international competitions coming up. In March, I am hoping to travel to Andorra to cheer on New Hall’s ski team in the Interschools Ski Races. Our Dance Department just received the news that 25 of our dancers were selected for Team England in the Dance World Cup, and they will be competing in Spain in June. And, of course, our annual New Hall Dance Shows and Termly Concerts are always at the top of my must-see list.

newhallschool.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_March22_EDUCATION_TALKING_HEAD_MK.indd 82

23/02/2022 13:25

Daiglen Preparatory School PERSEVERE & EXCEL A modern education in a traditional environment for boys and girls aged 3-11

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 7

Find out more: 02085047108 admissions@daiglenschool.co.uk www.daiglenschool.co.uk

03/02/2022 15:37

23/02/2022 11:56

“WHAT PARENTS WANT FROM A SCHOOL HAS REMAINED CONSTANT – VALUES, RESULTS, CULTURE” 84

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_Mar22_EDUCATION_MARK BAILEY.indd 84

23/02/2022 13:49

EDUCATION • SPOTLIGHT

A SCIENCE LESSON AT KNIGHTSBRIDGE SCHOOL

In conversation with

MARK BAILEY As former High Master of St Paul's, Professor Mark Bailey brings top-ﬂight experience to his new role at Dukes Education. Absolutely ﬁnds out more By LIBBY NORMAN

rofessor Mark Bailey became managing director at Dukes Education last November, tasked with day-to-day running of a number of its schools. Here was interesting news for anyone with more than a passing interest in the world of independent education. As High Master of St Paul's from 2011-2020, Bailey held one of the top 'premiership' roles. Prior to that, and also for around a decade, he successfully steered hallowed Leeds Grammar through the choppy waters of a merger with the city's beloved girls' high to create The Grammar School at Leeds. Throughout a top-flight career in independent schools, he stayed true to his first love – medieval history – and he's no

dabbler. Having found his muse during his schooldays he went on to obtain a First in Economic History at Durham and then a PhD at Cambridge, where he stayed on as a lecturer and Fellow of two colleges (Caius and Corpus Christi) before heading to Leeds Grammar. He joined UEA in 2010 and, unusually, stayed in post throughout his tenure at St Paul's – he remains there still as Visiting Professor of Later Medieval History. In 2018-19, Bailey was James Ford Lecturer in British History at the University of Oxford (previous incumbents have included V.S. Galbraith and A.J.P Taylor) and he's just published a book on the Black Death. With all of that, Bailey's Wikipedia page leads on the rugby. He was capped seven times and played for the Barbarians. He could have been a cricketer, having played both sports exceptionally well during his time at Ipswich School and beyond. So, the CV has everything you could want from an

inspiring educator and school leader. What it doesn't reveal is Bailey's dry Yorkshire humour and self-deprecating spin. He really doesn't warm to my summation that he's a heavy hitter, preferring to describe his career as "stumbling my way through". At Dukes Education, as one of four managing directors, he's bringing all this experience to an innovative group stewarding some of the most distinctive independent schools in Britain. His appointment grew out of a conversation with Dukes' founder and chairman Aatif Hassan while he was at St Paul's School. Governor roles followed and then he joined as Chair of the Dukes Advisory Board in 2018. He becomes an MD at an interesting time because the Dukes family is expanding – now numbering 12 schools in London and five outside the capital. Three London schools joined the fold in March. Then there are the nurseries under the 'Little A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_Mar22_EDUCATION_MARK BAILEY.indd 85

23/02/2022 13:50

bravely fortiter

faithfully fideliter

happily feliciter

St. Aubyn’s School Open Morning Thursday, 17 March 10 am - 12 pm Headmaster’s Introduction at 10.15 am

Full tour of the school 3+ 7+ 11+ For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar co-educational independent ages 3-13 central line Woodford

registrar@staubyns.com 020 8504 1577

Bunces Lane Woodford Green Essex IG8 9DU www.staubyns.com Registered Charity No: 270143

ST_AUBYNS_ESSEX_FEB22_HALF.indd 1

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 8

17/01/2022 12:10

23/02/2022 12:13

EDUCATION • SPOTLIGHT

SANCTON WOOD SCHOOL IN CAMBRIDGE IS A CO-ED FOR CHILDREN AGED FROM 1 TO 16

Dukes' umbrella, and the summer schools and consultancies offering guidance with university applications and career pathways. Inevitably, the big question is what attracted him to this new leadership role. "Dukes is really interesting," he says First up, he finds the story behind Dukes "compelling". It was started by Aatif Hassan after he founded Cavendish Education (separate, and now numbering 11 schools for young people with dyslexia and autism). Bailey likes the flat structure of Dukes, the warmth of the team but – most of all – he likes the ambition of what they are doing. "Dukes is in it for the long term. It is backed by private investors, and there are a number of stereotypes associated with that, but the reality is that Aatif has an unusually eclectic background. He's a former British Army Paratrooper. He

is also dyslexic and he started Cavendish Education with a particular purpose. It is values led and quality led and he wanted to bring the same things into mainstream education through Dukes." There are other points of difference about Dukes, he says, not least that it is underpinned by the pensions might of USS (Universities Superannuation Scheme). "USS looks for long-term growth and believes in education, so Dukes' institutional backers are not that conventional and they are in it for the long term," says Bailey. "Dukes are also in it for the long term. What they do is identify a great brand, a school that has earned a really good reputation." This has been central to the whole approach. At first glance, the schools appear disparate geographically and culturally – from Sancton Wood in

Cambridge to Knightsbridge School to Cardiff Sixth Form College. Look again and you see a linking thread. For instance, Knightsbridge is ranked among the top preps in the country, Cardiff's exceptional results make it a 'destination school' for overseas students and locals alike. Then consider Hampstead Fine Arts College's reputation for fostering creativity and Eaton Square's success in growing from a small prep into a highly regarded allthrough school for over 600 pupils. "With Dukes' approach, there's always the question: 'what can we add?'" says Bailey. "We have a very strong leadership programme, also expertise in getting the back and middle office support services absolutely right. We bring skills in marketing, skills in safeguarding – all that slightly hidden but important stuff that takes

“WITH DUKES, THERE’S ALWAYS THE QUESTION: ‘WHAT CAN WE ADD?’ ” A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_Mar22_EDUCATION_MARK BAILEY.indd 87

23/02/2022 13:50

BRAESIDE SCHOOL BUCKHURST HILL 2½ to 16 | 020 8504 1133 www.braesideschool.co.uk

COOPERSALE HALL SCHOOL EPPING

2½ to 11 | 01992 577133 www.coopersalehallschool.co.uk

NORMANHURST SCHOOL NORTH CHINGFORD

2½ to 16 | 020 8529 4307 www.normanhurstschool.co.uk

OAKLANDS SCHOOL LOUGHTON

2½ to 11 | 020 8508 3517 www.oaklandsschool.co.uk

CONTACT THE SCHOOLS DIRECTLY TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE TOUR

THE OAK-TREE GROUP OF SCHOOLS

Four privately owned local independent schools make up the Oak-Tree Group. The schools are known for their outstanding teaching, excellent exam results and remarkable pastoral care. The best way to experience the unique atmosphere of the Oak-Tree Group is to book a personal tour. You’ll experience a normal school day and discover for yourself why our pupils love coming to school every day.

EARLY YEARS ● INFANTS ● JUNIORS ● SENIORS For more information www.oaktreeschools.co.uk

Untitled-1 1

@OakTreeSchools

18/02/2022 16:38

EDUCATION • SPOTLIGHT

MARK BAILEY

up increasing amounts of time and specialist knowledge for all independent schools." Bailey sees the back office "stuff" as a key issue for the whole education sector. "The pressures of being a headteacher have increased dramatically over the past 20 years," he says. "You are increasingly the CEO of a very complex organisation." It's something Bailey understands from experience. His own respite was to down his (virtual) mortar board and put on his historian hat. "When I had time for me in the holidays it was just straight into medieval history," he says. For parents questioning the welldocumented school fee inflation of recent decades, compliance is one huge factor. But Bailey says there are other drivers – notably swelling pensions obligations. Also, salaries come into play because schools compete on the open market for talent. "If you want a top mathematician or physicist to put in front of really bright kids you go to top universities or to the City and you pay attractive salaries." Compliance, pensions obligations, salary inflation, and now Covid. Unsurprisingly, the medieval historian has the long view on this. "Pandemics accelerate or intensify existing tendencies," says Bailey. "The independent sector in terms of pupil numbers hasn't changed very much, but the tendency is towards fewer bigger schools – they can control costs because there's an economy of scale." This, of course, has parallels to what

KNIGHTSBRIDGE SCHOOL PUPILS

Dukes Education is able to do for its family of schools. "At Dukes, we're all working for the same thing – to take some of that back-office load and enable our schools to do what they do best," says Bailey. He is extremely optimistic about the long-term future of UK independent schools and says the international appeal is clear – temperate climate, transport links, stability, culture and the ability to buy into high-quality education. "London and the south-east have always been attractive for people globally who can work in any number of cities." So what about the many parents up and down the land who want the best for their child? During his years at the helm, Bailey says what

parents want from a school has remained constant. He says it comes down to three core elements: "values, results, culture". Timing is everything and Bailey's book reappraising the Black Death, published in February and based on his Ford lectures, has attracted – if not a groundswell – significantly more interest than he expected. Back to the self-deprecating humour: "There would normally be zero interest in it outside of about ten university departments. Because of this there is zero plus one." That “plus one” included a guest spot on the Knickerbocker Club's 'author of the month' slot. When the call came it was not, as he originally suspected, a mate pulling his leg but an invitation from one of New York's most exclusive gentlemen's clubs. "Before Covid, telling people you were writing about the Black Death was a conversation killer. But now people are curious and ask about parallels. Thankfully, I can tell them there are very few," he says. After the Black Death: Economy, society, and the law in fourteenth-century England, by Mark Bailey, is published by Oxford University Press A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_Mar22_EDUCATION_MARK BAILEY.indd 89

23/02/2022 13:50

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

LUXAFLEX_ABS_MAR22.indd 1

16/02/2022 10:30

HOUSE ST YLE

THE ESSEX LOOK

Essex locals have never been so design savvy as we are now, and there has never been so much choice. Our city is an explosion of designers and styles, ranging from the ultra modern to the antique, the experimental teenage bedroom to the established grand house. That’s why we’re celebrating everything about the Essex home.

inside this section: D E S I G N N E W S : T H E L AT E S T L AU N C H E S p 9 5 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 9 6 H AY L E Y S M I T H ’ S I N T E R I O R S T R A N S F O R M AT I O N p 1 0 1 T R E N D : W H Y M E TA L L I C S A R E A L L T H E R AG E p 1 0 9

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_HOME SPECIAL_COVER_CarpeDiem_PH.indd 91

23/02/2022 14:15

BESPOKE FITTED WARDROBES, STUDIES & LIVING ROOM UNITS

W W W. N E AT S M I T H . C O . U K

0 8 0 0 195 6 5 95

B R E N T W O O D | C H E L S E A | H A M P ST E A D | H A M P TO N H I L L | H ATC H E N D

NEATSMIT_FP_ABS_MAR22.indd 1

16/02/2022 14:51

H O M E | NEWS

IN THE

N E W S 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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_HOME_Mar22_INTERIORS NEWS_PH_v2.indd 93

23/02/2022 13:54

Hall Bros staircase advert designs Jan 2022.qxp_Layout 1 11/01/2022 16:58 Page 1

Making an entrance with Hall Brothers’ staircases Whatever type of home you live in – a period property, a barn conversion or a modern house – Hall Brothers’ bespoke staircase designs will complement your style and fit the exact space. We can also offer matching wooden flooring to complete the look. For more information call 01206 735287 / 01473 365167 or visit www.hall-brothers.co.uk

Untitled-3 1

17/02/2022 10:08

H O M E | NEWS

G REEN SCEN E

CREATIVE

VI C TO RY CO LO U R S

R E V I E W

Novara Green No. 81 was developed by influencer Claire of @harvey_home_eclectic, and Victory Colours loved it and added it to their collection. Claire named this olive green Novara after her home. It's a fab colour and looks great on ceilings as well as walls.

victorycolours.co.uk

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

FLO R A & FA U N A POLKRA

The Polkra x Katie Scott Collection is made with 100% ethically sourced natural wax. The beautiful ceramic vessels by Katie Scott have been inspired by her history of botanical art, and beloved themes of Fauna & Flora. £49 polkra.com

GREAT DANES

P L AT E APPEAL GILBERT & GEORGE

HK LIVING

These plates have been created by artists Gilbert & George to support the work of The Canvas Cafe, a social enterprise in East London that feeds the homeless. Buying this plate provides around 14 platefuls of food for some of the most vulnerable people in the area.

HK Living's collection of 70s ceramics expands each season with a new colourway. The highly collectible range from the Danish brand includes vases and storage jars as well as handle-free coffee cups. folkinteriors.co.uk

doublehelpings.shop

GLASS AC T NUDE

Nude's 2022 offering spans contemporary carafes and eye-catching glasses. Highlights of the range include Tomas Kral's Beak carafe, reimagined in the style of Iris Apfel, and the ombré effect Pigmento pitcher. nudeglass.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_HOME_DESIGN NOTES_PH.indd 95

23/02/2022 13:56

A R T

Absolutely admires Grayson Perry’s concept house in Essex

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME_LIVING ARCHITECHTURE_PH.indd 96

23/02/2022 13:58

H O M E | ARCHITECTURE

O U S E A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME_LIVING ARCHITECHTURE_PH.indd 97

23/02/2022 13:59

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME_LIVING ARCHITECHTURE_PH.indd 98

23/02/2022 13:59

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

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME_LIVING ARCHITECHTURE_PH.indd 99

23/02/2022 13:59

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

Untitled-3 1

11/02/2022 12:29

H O M E | FOCUS

Feeling eclectic Our columnist Hayley Smith reflects on why she has no regrets over a taxing renovation of her home

M I realised that I didn’t like everything to be too ‘matchy matchy’

y husba nd a nd I ex tended a nd renovated our Victorian Buckhurst Hill home in 2011 and I vowed to never do it again! I love architecture and interior design, and decorating one room at a time would have been a dream, however having to make decisions for the whole house at one time almost made me fall out of love with interior design for good. Back then I devotedly bought every issue of every home design magazine going. I cut out pictures to try and put together the vision that was in my head as I soon realised that I didn’t like everything to be too ‘matchy matchy’. Now with social media and the ease of online shopping, our vision is directly in front of us and can be easily copied and created with a few swipes of your finger! On completion of my renovation, a friend of a friend stopped by unannounced (Sally O’Connor, talented founder of the Hesellic Interior Design) who commented that our house style is ‘eclectic’. My immediate response was: ‘Is that a good thing?’ Ten years on I realise it is totally a good thing. Our house style hasn’t dated – the mix of old and new furniture, art, lights and accessories from different periods, some of which we picked up from European antique markets simply because we liked them, has ensured that our home is filled with personality and quirky pieces that are timeless. My favourite worldly accent is a bronze statue of Hindu God Ganesh who is positioned in the kitchen, the hub of our house, being the remover of obstacles. I make sure I acknowledge him each day.

HAYLEY SMITH

Your kitchen, being the hub, is the heart of your home, which in my opinion should be as practical as it is beautiful. It is certainly a room worth taking the time to design with professional help. If you are thinking of renovating your kitchen anytime soon, then you must visit the new showroom at The Makeover and Kitchen Company, based at 36A Church Hill in Loughton. Take advantage of the design skills and experience of the friendly husband and wife team, Mark and Lisa, who are certain to take the stress out of your renovation. Their ‘Masterclass’ kitchens are so lovely I might just have to start all over again. A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_HAYLEY SMITH_MK.indd 101

101

23/02/2022 13:47

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 102

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME BO CONCEPT_PH.indd 102

23/02/2022 14:01

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

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME BO CONCEPT_PH.indd 103

103

23/02/2022 14:01

BPB_FP_ABS_B&B_MAR22.indd 1

11/02/2022 11:01

H O M E | FOCUS

Ruin to

REVELATION Here’s the inside story on how a dilapidated farmhouse was transformed into a dream home

KATE GURNEY

ith an eye for interiors, Kate Gurney alongside her husband was able to see past the dilapidated condition of an old farmhouse that was to be the future family home. Taking her followers on the transitional journey on Instagram (@K.Home_Design), here she shares her wonderful home transformation with us. Q Tell us about the house? A We fell in love with our old farmhouse about seven years ago. It just had those good vibes and we could see the potential. However, it was a complete wreck and not in a liveable condition. We began work on it straight away so that we could move in. Q Tell us about the renovation journey that followed? A When we eventually started the build, we wanted to make sure that the house kept a modern farmhouse feel, yet was functional and worked for our growing family. We utilised porcelain

tiles throughout the home for a sense of continuity having visited our local N&C Tiles and Bathrooms showroom in Hemel Hempstead. We selected their stunning Home tile collection. Q What room is your most used, functional space? A The kitchen is the heart of our home. I wanted it to be a place which we could use as a family. The open plan kitchen / dining area and the large island was perfect for this. I can cook whilst the kids are doing their homework or playing. This is the most used room in the house, so we needed a hard-wearing floor that was not only attractive, but also worked well with the children. I chose the colour to create a light and airy feel. Bringing the tiles down into the dining area creates continuity and a seamless finish through the house which I love, there is no disconnection from room to room. Q Tell us about the other beautiful rooms... A When designing the master bedroom and en-suite I wanted it to feel like we had stepped into a hotel room, an escape from the craziness of family life! The en-suite

has a spa feel created using neutral earthy tones and natural materials. The faux wall we created for the shower area was covered in textured split face slate, also from N&C Tiles and Bathrooms, which creates a beautiful statement wall. I used natural coloured, marble effect tiles on the walls (N&C Eclipse, White Opal) with wood effect porcelain tiles (N&C Wood Space) on the floor. To finish off the look I accessorised with wood vanity furniture, white ceramic bathroom products and chrome fixtures. Adding soft mood lighting, candles and botanic elements enhanced the calming spa like feel of the space. For more on the tiles used in this project, visit nctilesandbathrooms.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_HOME_ADV_NICHOLLS&CLARKE_v2.indd 105

105

23/02/2022 14:03

ML.indd 1

17/01/2022 12:33

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_KLOEBER_MK.indd 107

107

23/02/2022 14:04

Untitled-7 1

10/12/2021 14:47

Showroom opening times: Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10am–4pm Wednesday: 10am–4pm Thursday: 10am–4pm Friday: 10am–4pm Saturday: 10am–4pm Sunday: Closed

Contact T: 01992 760 500 | info@harrisonskitchens.co.uk 21 Highbridge Street Waltham Abbey EN9 1BZ Essex United Kingdom

HARRISON_KITCHENS_HP_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 9

You can ﬁnd us on Facebook and Twitter, or why not visit our Showroom in Waltham Abbey. Harrisons Kitchens & Bedrooms

@HarrisonsDesign

18/02/2022 16:39

23/02/2022 11:56

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

ABS_Essex_MAR22_PRODUCTS_METALLIC.indd 109

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

109

23/02/2022 14:06

Bathroom Lighting

Bathroom Design by TLA Studio / Photo by Caroline Bridges

Hand Blown Glass. Made in England

Advert_Curiousa_March.indd 1 Untitled-1 1

www.curiousa.co.uk

10:27 23/02/2022 10:52

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

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_MAR22_Products_VASES.indd 111

111

23/02/2022 14:07

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

Stop by our showroom in Chingford, North London today to explore all our mattresses. One of our knowledgeable staﬀ members can help you ﬁnd the right mattress and will tell you more about our delivery options.

Celebrating

50 years of family business

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

Webinar |18.05.2022 | 11:00 – 12:00

1_HP_QP_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 10

23/02/2022 11:56

H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

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

ABS_Essex_HOME_March22_AVTL_SILENT NIGHT_PH.indd 113

113

23/02/2022 14:07

Untitled-5 2

11/01/2022 17:34

H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

Grand Designs

FURTHER EXAMPLES OF THEIR WORK

They can open their gates from anywhere in the world with their mobile phone THE RECENT STAND OUT PROJECT BY TARMEC AND CROFT

We find out more about a recent project by Tarmec and Croft Fencing and Gates Ltd

Q What does your business offer? A We manufacture small side gates up to large driveway gates and can fit fencing at the properties as well to provide a complete entrance solution. All gates are manufactured by hand using time proven construction techniques in our workshops in Earls Colne. We also offer a full installation service using our own in house team rather than subcontractors, which enables us to ensure continuity of service. All the gates are suitable for automation and we fit both sliding and above ground high quality Italian made automation as well. This means the clients can have the whole project from design through to install and automation if required completed by our teams. Often gates provide security to the back of a client’s property and it isn’t always a standard size opening. We are able to advise on design solutions to fit almost any situation. If the gates are not automated we offer either keyed access or mechanical digital access locks, as well as security strips to add to the tops of gates and fencing. The strength in a gate comes from the way it is manufactured, the size of the bracing and the timber profiles used. Our framed gates are mortice and tenon jointed as well as glued and dowelled, which means they are stronger than gates which are just screwed together.

Q What was the brief for a stand out project recently? A To design a gate to provide security to the property, but so that the customers’ dogs can still see out of the drive. Install a reliable automation system to enable the client to access easily from the road. Q What challenges did you face? A Getting the design aesthetically proportioned to fit the existing brick opening on site, but with the correct bracing required to support the gate over time. Our clients wanted a hardwood gate and came to us initially with some photographs that they wanted modified to suit the size of the opening created by their new brick entrance pillars. Q How would you sum up the final design? A The final design manufactured in treated Sapele hardwood was fitted with CAME Axo automation for reliability and also fitted with a GSM intercom allowing visitors to press a call button and our client to then speak to them directly and open their gates from anywhere in the world with their mobile phone. They can also call the gates on approach using the hands free in their vehicles and the gates will be open when they arrive. The gate is a solid design that enhances the entrance way as well as providing an additional security deterrent and safety for the dogs. The clients said this about the project: “It was great that we were able to order the gates from a family business who could design, manufacture, fit and automate them as one seamless project. The service is excellent and the workmanship is simply the best, the quality of the gates is first class.” tarmecfencingandgates.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_MAR22_HOME_TARMEC_MK.indd 115

115

23/02/2022 13:05

MAKE YOUR DREAM HOME A REALITY With SEH BAC an award winning company you can trust

UP TO

WINDOWS • DOORS CONSERVATORIES & EXTENSIONS

Visit your nearest showcentre today

2 Stanway Retail Park, Peartree Road, Colchester, CO3 0LX Poplar Nuseries, Coggeshall Road, Marks Tey, Colchester, CO6 1HR

Get your quote online www.sehbac.com or over the phone 0800 666 444

50 WINNER 2019

*Up to 40% OFF Windows, Doors, Conservatories and Extensions, no minimum spend. Terms and conditions apply, please ask for more information. Offer ends 31st March 2022. **An expert panel of independent judges named SEH BAC as the G-17 Installer of the Year, the highest accolade for any installer in the UK and the best of 13,000 home improvement companies. ◆ As part of One Group Construction.

Untitled-1 1

18/02/2022 16:32

H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

THEY HAVE COMPLETED MANY PROJECTS ACROSS THE COUNTY AND BEYOND

stressing they wouldn’t be able to get it for two months, so we took the cladding installation off their hands as we knew the client wanted the roof done as quickly as possible. We had to clad after we had put the new roof on, so we had to scaffold everything over the new roof to do the job.

Grand Designs Steve Rawding of SEH BAC discusses a project that provided the perfect blend between home and extension THE SUCCESSFUL RECENT PROJECT

Q What was the project brief? A The homeowner wanted a solid replacement conservatory roof to transform their existing conservatory and provide a much warmer space, plus they also wanted a solid roof with no glass in it. We specified the UltraRoof380 with the existing base and frames to remain. The homeowner was also due to get an outside company to clad the gable frame and the house wall too but, after being let down by them, we agreed to do it alongside the roof installation. Q What challenges did you have to overcome? A Removing the existing timber/glass roof and taking it apart while making sure we didn’t damage any of the timber windows beneath was a challenge and was extremely time-consuming as it was a wellbuilt structure. The gable frame required replacing due to the size of the insulation and box beam. The whole project was threatened with delay due to having to wait for the cladding, with the outside company

Q What was enjoyable about the job? A Not only did we help transform the conservatory to a space that can be used all year round, we were also able to do all the cladding at such short notice to make sure the job was not delayed. It meant that we were able to tie everything together, which the homeowner appreciated, and it was brilliant to be able to not only provide the right home improvement solution to achieve what the homeowner wanted while also going the extra mile for them in the process. Q How would you sum up the design? A The transformation has been stunning. The new roof complements the client’s existing home, seamlessly blending in with the exterior and the midnight black Hardie Plank Cladding, which we brought in to clad to the gable frame and the outside render of the house wall, also complements both the conservatory and property. Q What does the client love best about it? A The homeowners love the amazing transformation of their property and the warmer, brighter space the new roof has provided, and they also love how the Hardie Plank Cladding makes the conservatory and the roof look like it’s always been a part of the property. The client was so delighted they now want us to do the conservatory on the other side of the property. SEH BAC 0800 666 444 sehbac.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_ADV_HOME_SEHBAC_MK.indd 117

117

23/02/2022 13:10

Untitled-1 1

10/02/2022 13:17

H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

GRAND DESIGNS

Debbie Driver of Harveys Quality Garden Buildings in Rayleigh on one of their stand out projects

Q What does your business offer? A Harveys supply quality buildings to enhance and add practical space to any outdoor environment. The past year has seen an increased demand in home working and Harveys offer bespoke garden office/studios. Harveys can install air conditioning in our buildings, which is refreshingly cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making your office truly inviting throughout the year. We have also seen families wanting to make more all year use of their gardens with fun buildings such as our rotating pods and barbecue cabins becoming increasingly popular.

We have seen families wanting to make more use of their gardens with fun buildings like our rotating pods HARVEYS CREATE ALL MANNER OF GARDEN ROOMS

Q What has been a stand out project recently? A Harveys were recently approached by a large day care provider to install 12 garden rooms at selected properties throughout Essex to give outside space for families to meet and clients to relax in. Q What challenges did you have to overcome? A There were challenges to overcome as site visits highlighted that new bases were required for many buildings as they were to be situated in grassed areas, but by working closely with the individual care home managers Harveys arranged every aspect of the project from design of buildings, suggested best location, provision of suitable bases and installation of the buildings with as little disruption as possible. The ability to work with our customers with the aim of offering them exactly what they want is one of the most enjoyable aspects of our job and to think our buildings will bring much pleasure to the day care clients over the years is an added bonus. Q What was the client feedback like? A At the end of the project we were heartened to hear that the project manager was so happy with the finalised buildings that he is coming back to discuss further building requirements, which make it all worthwhile. HARVEYS QUALITY GARDEN BUILDINGS 01268 775770 harveysgardenbuildings.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_HOME_ADV_HARVEYS_MK.indd 119

119

23/02/2022 16:02

Guiding You Through Probate If you have recently lost a loved one you may be going through probate. Probate refers to administrating a person’s estate after their death and can typically take 6 to 8 months to complete for a simple estate. The responsibility of administering the estate can be daunting for an executor especially at such an emotional time.

We are here to help Attwells Solicitors offer two options for probate depending on what suits you best. Our Fixed-Fee Probate service means you can do parts of probate yourself with the help of a lawyer. This is used in the majority of situations but may not always be suitable for more complex estates. Alternatively, we offer a Complete Probate service where your lawyer will undertake all aspects of probate.

For sympathetic legal support call Attwells Solicitors on 01206 766 333 Untitled-1 1

09/02/2022 11:42

H O M E | PARTNERSHIP

Guiding HAND

Do you have questions about probate? Attwells Solicitors offer tips to put your mind at ease Words E L I Z A B E T H H E N D R Y

PROPERTY PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN PROBATE

f you have recently lost a loved one, you may be going through probate. Probate refers to administrating a person’s estate after their death and can typically take 6 to 8 months to complete for a simple estate. The responsibility of administering the estate can be daunting for an executor especially at such an emotional time. To help, we have set out a step-bystep process.

1. LOCATE THE WILL

After the relevant people have been notified of the death and it has been registered, you should start with the deceased’s Will. If you cannot locate it, you should check if the deceased’s bank, solicitor or accountant has it. If there is no Will, the people who are entitled to inherit under the Government’s intestacy rules have the right to apply to become executors of the estate.

2. SPEAK TO THE BANK AND FINANCIAL COMPANIES

You should then start getting financial information together. You will also need to contact the bank and other financial companies and notify them.

3. VALUE THE HOUSE

If there is a property within the estate, you will need to get it valued.

4. REPORT THE VALUE OF THE ESTATE

To get a Grant of Probate, you need to complete an Inheritance Tax (IHT) form (whether tax is payable or not). This form sets out any assets and debts of the estate and is where you can work out its overall value. There are two forms and which one you need to complete depends on the value of the estate and if there is any tax to pay.

5. PROBATE

Following this you can apply for the Grant of Probate. This is a document that gives you the right to access the deceased’s funds, organise their finances and divide their assets.

6. DISTRIBUTE THE ESTATE

You can then distribute the assets to the beneficiaries. You should also take into account Capital Gains Tax, Income Tax and IHT – these will have an effect on the amount of money that is distributed.

7. CONSIDER ENLISTING LEGAL SUPPORT

While you can carry out probate yourself, it is a lengthy and complex task that can present many a pitfall if it’s not undertaken properly. The best thing to do is to speak to an experienced lawyer that can guide you through the process. Attwells Solicitors offer two options for probate, depending on what suits you best. Their Fixed-Fee Probate service means you can do parts of probate yourself with the help of a lawyer. This is used in the majority of situations, but may not always be suitable for more complex estates. Alternatively, they offer a Complete Probate service, where your lawyer will undertake all aspects of probate. For sympathetic legal support, call Attwells Solicitors on 01206 766 333 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_MAR22_ESSEX_HOME_ADV_ATTWELLS_MK.indd 121

121

23/02/2022 17:38

E* RT N G L E PA H A A B C IL E X VA A

Looking to move up the property ladder but have a home to sell? Part Exchange* is now available on all Ascot house types at St Edward’s Gate, so let us take the pressure off you and get you moving in 2022! Call today to book a viewing of the last few remaining houses on this exclusive development of 23 private homes. Prices from £975,000. * The value of the property being purchased must be at least 30% greater than the value of your current property. All images are actual photography of Plot 1 The Ascot, St Edward’s Gate.

KEY HOME FEATURES ■

Designer kitchens with Siemens appliances

■

Elegant fixtures and fittings throughout

■

Home office and integral garage

■

Idyllic location between Cuffley & Goff’s Oak

■

A short walk to Cuffley Station and amenities

■

Less than an hour to The City by train*

* Journey time travelling from Cuffley to Kings Cross by train c.50 mins, taken from National Rail

104 Cuffley Hill | Goff’s Oak | EN7 5EY

020 8441 955 5

NEWHOMES@STATONS.COM www.chasenewhomes.co.uk

STATONS_ABS_HERTS_MAR22.indd 1

21/02/2022 10:23

PROPERTY

CHINGFORD LANE E4

£650,000 GUIDE PRICE

et back off Chingford Lane and adjacent to Elm Grove is this spectacular fourbedroom Victorian house. The property has been maximised and extended to a high specification and is in stunning condition throughout. This elegant home benefits from a large bright and airy 22ft lounge leading to a 16ft modern fitted kitchen diner. The top floor has a large master bedroom and en-suite bathroom.

WILLIAM ROSE

020 8504 2440 william-rose.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_PFC_MK.indd 123

123

23/02/2022 12:56

Untitled-1 1

09/02/2022 11:21

PROPERTY • OPINION

Balancing ACT

There may chaos reigning around the UK and the globe, but the property market in Essex appears to be one stable element of modern day life

B y H AY L E Y H U N T

here can be no doubt about it, we are living in strange and uncertain times. On the back of the pandemic we have rapidly rising energy prices, a government in turmoil and uncertainty in the Ukraine. But has all this doom and gloom dented confidence in the property market? Not a bit – in fact, if anything, it’s the exact opposite, with average house prices rising to over 11 per cent in the past year. Indeed, confidence is such that

last month saw buyer demand up 16 per cent in 2021 and up 24 per cent in 2020. Not even rising inflation – now predicted to reach up to 7 per cent this year (more than three times the government’s target) – is having the usual effect on the market. It may have prompted the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to increase the base rate by 0.25 per cent to half a per cent this month, with more rises seeming likely; however, this is still an exceptionally low interest rate, with little sign that this will have any significant impact on what remains a very robust property market.

There is even some good news that’s come out of the current set of circumstances and that is the fact that the market is slowly, but surely, beginning to selfcorrect the imbalance between supply and demand that has been driving prices. In the last two weeks of January alone, the supply of new properties entering the market increased by ten per cent compared to the same time last year. The fact that more stock is finally coming to market after nearly two years of demand far outstripping supply is very welcome. And it shows no sign of abating if the latest figures from Rightmove are anything to go by, with valuation requests from potential sellers to estate agents up 27 per cent on last year, 53 per cent on 2020 and 52 per cent on 2019. It would seem that finally sellers are getting off the fence they’ve been forced to sit on due to the lack of choice available to them for their onward purchase. It’s exciting to see this choice finally opening up to meet the demand, as those sellers themselves have the confidence to come to market. At Hunt we are delighted to be gearing up for a very busy early spring market where we’ll be helping our sellers find the right buyer, negotiating and holding together some very complex chains and all the while securing the highest price the market will pay. Why not join them so you can get moving? Please feel free to call us today for the right advice for you and your property. H U N T P R O P E R T Y S E RV I C E S Hayley Hunt is the founder of Hunt Property Services, located at 732 Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 8AL 020 8502 7667 huntpropertyservices.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex2_March22_PROPERTY_COLUMN_MK.indd 125

125

23/02/2022 13:02

Hunt Property Services is an independent boutique estate agency with a portfolio of luxury properties for sale and rent in London and Essex.

We are also the agent for Repton Park, an exclusive gated development in Woodford Green, where founder and Director Hayley Hunt has been a resident for over 20 years. Our award winning team of experts will provide you with an outstanding bespoke service to guide you through every aspect of buying or selling a property. We have also been recognised for providing excellence in property renovations, proudly winning Woman in Build Award two years running. The Hunt team are available for consultations, market appraisals and viewings seven days a week.

REPTON PARK

Hunt offers exclusively to the market this five bedroom ground floor duplex apartment set behind its own private gates within the prestigious gated development of Repton Park, Woodford Green, Chigwell.

Guide Price £1,350,000

HUNT_PROPERTY_PRINTREADY.indd 1

02/02/2022 12:20

oasting 2500 square feet of luxury living, this apartment offers original wood panelling, high ceilings, sash windows and unbelievable views of the surrounding English heritage grounds. Magnificent space with an abundance of natural light throughout. Generous size kitchen diner with fully integrated appliances and granite worktops. Spacious lounge benefits from a gas feature fireplace, bay windows and pretty views to this apartment’s large private gated garden. Enjoy long forest walks and silent living in this peaceful haven. Five private parking spaces. Spectacular entrance hallway, 24 hour concierge, night time security and Virgin Active exclusive adult only health club. Chain Free Sole agent.

HUNT_PROPERTY_PRINTREADY.indd 2

02/02/2022 12:20

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

Downham, Essex Guide Price £1,475,000

Mark Davies

John Seward

Director

Associate Director

01245 254618

01245 254606

mark.davies@struttandparker.com

john.seward@struttandparker.com

Over 50 Offices across England and Scotland, including prime Central London. STRUTT_PARKER_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

16/02/2022 15:39

Mundon, Essex Offers In Excess Of £1,400,000

Great Waltham, Essex Guide Price £775,000

A beautifully presented detached chalet bungalow with outbuildings and established vineyard

A charming Grade II listed cottage, set in the grounds of a manor house, surrounded by countryside

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

/struttandparker STRUTT_PARKER_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 2

@struttandparker

struttandparker.com 16/02/2022 15:40

Nelmes Crescent, Emerson Park

Marlborough Gardens, Upminster

Boasting over 2,300sqft of living accommodation, this spacious four to five bedroom detached family home is close to Nelmes Primary School which boasts an outstanding Ofsted rating.

Our team in Upminster sold the first of a pair of four bedroom, detached family homes. With two en-suites and approx. 1,530sqft of living accommodation, we strongly recommend booking a viewing for the final remaining unit!

Balgores Hornchurch | Guide Price £1,000,000

Balgores Upminster | Asking Price £850,000

Clermont Place, Romford

Harris Close, Romford

This modern, semi-detached home offers four double bedrooms and is available for sale in Romford. The property offers an en-suite and dressing room to the master bedroom.

Our expert Upminster team sold this beautiful five bedroom home early this year. Also features views over the Upminster golf course and a spacious 200ft rear garden with a heated swimming pool.

Balgores Romford | Offers In Excess Of £750,000

Balgores Romford | Guide Price £675,000 - £725,000

Basildon t: 01268 271 110

Brentwood t: 01277 216 800

BALGORES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

Chelmsford t: 01245 492 424

Dagenham t: 0208 592 1038

Gravesend t: 01474 369 955

Hornchurch t: 01708 470 756

21/02/2022 12:19

ily we

balgoresproperty.com

Burnt Mills Road, Basildon

Everwood, High Road

Offering a four piece en-suite to the master bedroom, two reception rooms and a 58’ south facing rear garden with summerhouse, be sure not to miss this stunning five/six bedroom home.

This large, modern, five bedroom, contemporary home was sold by our Basildon office. Also offers a swimming pool area, 22’ orangery and three en-suites.

Balgores Basildon | Guide Price £825,000

Balgores Basildon | Guide Price £1,100,000 - £1,200,000

Haylands Farmhouse, Pilgrims Hatch

Fairway Drive, Chelmsford

This beautiful, Grade II listed house was sold by our Brentwood branch and is set on a substantial plot measuring some four acres with beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning views.

Situated in a sought-after location is this immaculately presented five double-bedroom family home. With two luxurious en-suites and a landscaped garden, this home is sure to impress!

Balgores Brentwood | Offers In Excess Of £2,000,000

Balgores Chelmsford | Asking Price £750,000

Loughton t: 0208 502 1559

Ongar t: 01277 369 925

BALGORES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 2

Romford t: 01708 755 507

South Woodham Ferrers t: 01245 323 729

Upminster t: 01708 259 539

Wickford t: 01268 763 477

21/02/2022 12:19

Farthingale Lane, Waltham Abbey

Colson Road, Loughton

Available for sale in Waltham Abbey is this four bedroom detached home, boasting 1,450sqft of living accommodation and an attached garage. Also offers two reception rooms and an en-suite to the master bedroom.

Sold by our expert team in Loughton, this greatly extended, seven bedroom home is set over three oors and has been modernised to a high standard throughout and features a well maintained rear garden.

Balgores Loughton | Asking Price £675,000

Balgores Loughton | Offers In Excess Of £800,000

Harts Grove, Woodford Green

Starling Close, Buckhurst Hill

This stunning six bedroom home was sold by our team in Loughton. Situated on the highly regarded Harts Grove development, this property has an extensive feature list and its very own putting green!

A stunning four bedroom detached family home, recently extended and refurbished to an exceptional standard. Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac with access to highly regarded state private schools. eaturing a ground oor cloakroom, utility room, two reception rooms and high quality kitchen/diner.

Balgores Loughton | Guide Price £1,500,000 - £1,750,000

Basildon t: 01268 271 110

Brentwood t: 01277 216 800

BALGORES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 3

Chelmsford t: 01245 492 424

Balgores Loughton | Guide Price £1,250,000

Dagenham t: 0208 592 1038

Gravesend t: 01474 369 955

Hornchurch t: 01708 470 756

21/02/2022 12:19

balgoresproperty.com

Stewarts Cross, Ongar

Oakdale, Ongar

Available for sale in Ongar is this delightful, semi-detached cottage located in an idyllic, semi-rural position. The property features an impressive frontage with private driveway and an attractive landscaped garden.

This deceptively spacious home offers two formal reception rooms, a 100’ landscaped garden and a contemporary kitchen/dining room.

Balgores Ongar | £875,000

Balgores Ongar | Guide Price Of £700,000

Charles House, Carters Yard

Sandon Lodge, Ongar

Sold by our Ongar team, this four bedroom home is set over three floors and is just a stones throw from Ongar’s vibrant high street.

Sold by our team in Ongar, this contemporary style five bedroom home offers spacious and flexible accommodation with state of the art communication facilities.

Balgores Ongar | Guide Price £725,000 - £750,000

Balgores Ongar | Guide Price £975,000

Loughton t: 0208 502 1559

Ongar t: 01277 369 925

BALGORES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 4

Romford t: 01708 755 507

South Woodham Ferrers t: 01245 323 729

Upminster t: 01708 259 539

Wickford t: 01268 763 477

21/02/2022 12:19

3D WALKTHROUGH

Traps Hill, Loughton

£2,500,000

Located on one of Loughton’s most coveted roads, this four-bedroom detached residence with far reaching views over Loughton and the City of London is within walking distance to the High Road, an excellent range of private and public schools, Epping Forest and two Central Line Underground Stations. In addition, this property is proximate to the M11, M25 and several international airports. This impressive home occupies a large mature plot which has huge potential for extension or redevelopment. The substantial rear garden gives a wide range of development possibilities subject to the usual planning consent. Externally there is a wonderful mature garden which is made up of two sections, with an orchard at the rear boundary. Once landscaped this garden will offer a fabulous space for alfresco dining in the summer months.

ELLIOT_JAMES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_v4.indd 1

22/02/2022 16:51

3D WALKTHROUGH

The Drive, Buckhurst Hill

£1,450,000

A superb five-bedroom, three bathroom detached family home in the heart of Buckhurst Hill. This impressive home is located on an extremely sought-after road close to Buckhurst Hill Central Line Station, forestry, local amenities such as Waitrose and local boutiques and the well-regarded St John’s primary school. The accommodation is arranged over three floors with the ground floor comprising of spacious entrance hall, integral garage, cloakroom with automatic lighting, bright open kitchen featuring breakfast bar and door leading onto the rear patio and a capacious dual aspect through lounge which is arranged as a dining room at one end and a living room at the other. It is also important to highlight that the ground floor benefits from solid wood flooring throughout. To the rear, the property features 105-foot private garden with direct access to the nature reserve. There is also the possibility to extend, subject to the usual planning permission.

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

ELLIOT_JAMES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_v4.indd 2

22/02/2022 16:51

THIS PROPERTY ON FOREST AVENUE IS TYPICAL OF WHAT WILLIAM ROSE HAVE ON THEIR BOOKS

On a HIGH The directors of william rose, Jay Williams and Adrian Sinclair, on why now was the right time to open their second office

136

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_Property focus_MK.indd 136

23/02/2022 12:58

PROPERTY • FOCUS

Q Do you have a favourite local place to visit? A There are a good few, but the two that stand out are The Royal Oak pub, which is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a warm, friendly and cosy atmosphere for a few drinks and some tasty pub food. Also No. 1 The Avenue where the food is fantastic, offering great Indian cuisine in a relaxed environment. THE TEAM AT WILLIAM ROSE

“HIGHAMS PARK REALLY DOES PROVIDE ITS RESIDENTS WITH A WONDERFUL PLACE TO LIVE AND INVEST”

Q Tell us a little bit about the background to william rose… A We were both working for a large independent estate agency and were responsible for the management of multiple offices, but decided the time was right to go our own way: william rose was born in 2018 with the vision of being very service driven, meaning us being hands on and personally involved with clients on a dayto-day basis. We moved to our High Road Woodford office with the intention of standing out from the crowd in August 2020, and since then things have really taken off. Q What makes you different? A At william rose you will have an experienced

property contact throughout the process. We believe in building relationships, so you’ll have one agent to call on as and when you need them. We recognise that every customer is unique, and we take the time to listen and understand your personal property requirements in order to fully ascertain how we can help you meet these needs. OAK HILL CLOSE

Q Why is now the right time to open an office in Highams Park? A We feel a strong connection with Highams Park having both lived and gone through school there. The market has gone through such a change with Highams Park firmly on the map, popular with East London buyers looking for a well-connected area with many open green spaces for the family to enjoy. We felt with our ties to the area it was the right move and time to bring our award-winning service to Highams Park. Q Why do you think the area is popular with buyers and renters? A When discussing the key reasons for liking Highams Park, locals speak of the friendliness of their neighbours, the feeling of safety, and the diversity of its people. With excellent rail links to London, a wide range of cafés, amenities and leisure activities, and the open green spaces of Epping Forest, Highams Park really does provide its residents with a wonderful place to live and invest.

Q What kind of properties in the area do you have on the market? A We have recently sold properties in Beech Hall Crescent and Nelson Road, which were both three-bedroom family homes. Like most properties in Highams Park they were popular with high viewing numbers generating many offers all over asking prices. Q How has business been in your Woodford Green office? A We have had a remarkable 2021 with the office going from strength to strength gaining a huge market share in the Woodford area. This was topped off by winning a Gold Award at the Best Estate Agency Guide, where it was great for the team to be recognised for their hard work. Q What message would you have for buyers and sellers out there? A It is very different for buyers as it is such a sellers’ market. Buyers need to make sure they put themselves in the best possible position, being financially ready with proof of deposit and an agreement in principle available as early as possible. Not to get too despondent as finding a property can be brutal, but we are finding most of our clients do finally get the right property for them. Sellers need to understand that the market is great for selling as long as the property is valued correctly and the right marketing strategy is used. Sellers are starting to be aware that agents do work in a different way, so doing research on the agent is important in getting the best buyer at the best price. Q And what can you offer landlords? A Our bespoke service and prior experience

is at the very forefront of our business. Between us, we have over 40 years' lettings experience in the local market. We are Propertymark (ARLA) and Property Ombudsman members. Being a landlord can be a satisfying and profitable experience when you work with the right team. Q Do you have predictions for 2022? A This has been the strongest start to a year

for growth in house prices since 2005, new Nationwide data revealed. Annual growth rose 11.2% in January, up from 10.4% in December, making it the fastest growth rate in January for 17 years so the signs are for a busy year. william-rose.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_Essex_March22_Property focus_MK.indd 137

137

23/02/2022 12:58

3D WALKTHROUGH

The Broadway, Loughton £700,000

• • • • •

3D WALKTHROUGH

Three Bedroom Family Home Central Line Location Over 1700 sq. Ft Large Driveway Spacious Garden

3D WALKTHROUGH

Alderton Way, Loughton

Balmoral House, Woodford Green

£2,250PCM

£1,325PCM

• • • • •

Fantastic Location Large Driveway Spacious Garden Detached Garage 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

ELLIOT_JAMES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_v4.indd 3

Seconds From Station Unfurnished Available Now Modern 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom

22/02/2022 16:51

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

ANNABEL KABEL

ELLIOTT LAWLOR

NICOLA LAWLOR

FREDERICK CASSFORD

HEIDI FOSTER

HOLLY DUNCAN

JAMES LAWLOR

REBECCA HAWES

GRACE PERRY

HOLLY DONALDSON

CALL TO ARRANGE YOUR MARKET APPRAISAL

3D WALKTHROUGH

Hainault Grove, Chigwell

Landmark House, Loughton

£2,350PCM

£1,800PCM

• • • • •

Close To the Station Detached House Recently Refurbished Garage Included 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

Available in March Parking Included Newly Refurbished Unfurnished 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms

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

ELLIOT_JAMES_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22_v4.indd 4

22/02/2022 16:51

DURDEN_HUNT_FP_ABS_MAR22.indd 1

08/02/2022 13:27

PROPERTY • OPINION

Step into the

UNKNOWN The co-founder of Durden & Hunt reveals his tips to becoming a residential landlord this year By JAMES HUNT

eople become residential landlords for a variety of reasons. Here are a few things you should look to consider when thinking of becoming a first time landlord:

TAXATION

product to a new buy-to-let product, or in some cases you can speak to your lender and explain and they may offer you ‘consent to let’ on your existing product.

FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED

When becoming a landlord for the first time it is important to consider how the income will be taxed and how it may affect your overall tax code. Property purchased in your personal name is considered personal income, and this new income can even move you into the next tax bracket, which could determine how much tax you pay on your regular income. It is important to consult a qualified tax advisor on this matter before making a decision.

You must decide whether you want to rent out a completely furnished or unfurnished property early on. If you’ve inherited a furnished property, the decision may be straight-forward. However, if it is currently empty you will need to make a decision as to whether providing furniture may achieve more rent or not. Don’t forget, carrying out an inventory is a smart idea because it will impact your insurance coverage and may help to avoid disagreements at the end of a contract.

STAMP DUTY

LEGALS AND RESPONSIBILITY

In England the government have introduced an additional 3 per cent surcharge on stamp duty for those purchasing a buy to let investment or a second home. It is important to consider how this might affect the amount of funds needed to make the purchase and also how it might affect future purchases. There are lots of online calculators for stamp duty, but your solicitor will confirm the final amount.

There is a fair bit of legal documentation you will need to be able to rent your home. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following: you’ll need an up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate for a property before it can be let; each gas appliance in the property must have a gas safety certificate, and each property must have smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector; any appliances or furniture must also meet the required safety standards; there are other regulations concerning a tenant’s deposit and how it is held in a governmentapproved programme; and there are now electrical certification also needed. Renting your home can be a great investment, but if it is not done properly then it can become a headache. Contact James Hunt on james.hunt@durdenandhunt.co.uk if you have any questions.

MORTGAGE When purchasing a buy-to-let or converting your existing property into a buy-to-let, it is important to ensure you have the correct mortgage product. You cannot rent out a property that you purchased on a residential mortgage without consent from your lender. To do this on an existing property you can re-mortgage from residential mortgage

JAMES HUNT

“Renting your home can be a great investment, but if it is not done properly then it can become a headache”

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

ABS_March22_PROPERTY_DURDEN&HUNT_MK.indd 141

141

23/02/2022 13:01

The Hollow, Woodford Green

£3,000 pcm

Oak Hill Woodford Green

St Ronans Crescent Woodford Green

Guide Price £650,000

Guide Price £900,000

• 3 bedrooms

• 4 bedroom detached

• Close to forest

• Poplar Laing’s Estate

• Lots of potential

• Extended

• Popular schooling

St James Terrace Woodford Green

Kings Avenue Woodford Green

Guide Price £650,000

Guide Price £900,000

• 3 bedrooms

• 4 bedrooms

• No Chain

• Monkhams Estate

• Close to Station

• Potential to extend

• 2 Bathrooms

• 110ft rear garden

Kirby Apartments, Bow

£1,750 pcm

Rayleigh Road, Woodford Green

£2,000 pcm

• 4 bedrooms

• Modern throughout

• 2 bedrooms

• En Suite to master

• 4 bedrooms

• Kitchen-diner

• Detached

• Close to forest

• Views over The City

• Wrap around balcony

• 3 bathrooms

• Close to popular schools

0204 553 0707 3 0 T he Avenue, H i gh a ms Pa r k, E4 9L D

WILLIAM_ROSE_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

23/02/2022 11:54

Bishops Gate, Liverpool Street

£1,750 pcm

Mallards Road Woodford Green

Bridge Barn, Epping

Guide Price £250,000

Guide Price £2,000,000

• 1 bedroom

• Stunning barn conversion

• Own front door

• Countryside views

• Chain free

• Detached annex

• Close to Station

• Security gates

Henrys Walk, Hainault

Chingford Lane, Woodford Green

Guide Price £325,000

Guide Price £650,000

• 2 bedrooms

• 4 bedrooms

• Large apartment

• Period property

• Excellent condition

• Extended over 3 floors

• Close to Station

• Close to forest and station

Chapelmount, Woodford Green

£1,000 pcm

Hamilton Avenue, Gants Hill

£2,000 pcm

• 1 bedroom

• Lift access

• 1 bedroom

• Allocated parking

• 4 bedrooms

• En suite to master

• Very close to station

• Bright & Spacious

• Own front door

• Close to shops

• Newly fitted kitchen

• Off street parking

WILLIAM_ROSE_DPS_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 2

23/02/2022 11:54

AGENT_AND_HOMES_ABS_MAR22.indd 1

21/02/2022 10:45

AGENT_AND_HOMES_ABS_MAR22.indd 2

21/02/2022 10:45

Russell Road, Buckhurst Hill

Guide Price £900,000 Offering enormous potential to extend and improve is this detached three double bedroom property on one of Buckhurst Hill’s most sought after turnings. St John’s Primary School, shops and the Central Line station are a stroll away.

Monarch Place, Princes Road, Buckhurst Hill

Guide Price £600,000

Ideally positioned in the heart of Buckhurst Hill is this superbly presented two bedroom terraced house which has been transformed by the present owners. Features include two double bedrooms with en suite cloakroom to the master, a spacious open plan kitchen / living space, guest cloakroom and garage en bloc.

FARRONEIL_FP_ABS_ESSEX_MAR22.indd 1

15/02/2022 13:45

BANG OLUFSEN.indd 1

27/08/2021 09:47

Untitled-1 1

18/02/2022 13:05

Absolutely Essex March 2022

Articles inside

INTERIORS NEWS

FOODIE ADVENTURES

DAYGUSTATION

TREND

RECIPES

ZEE & CO