Absolutely Sussex April 2024

KOMOLAFE

via a wake up call in Hastings / £3.95

ways to enjoy spring in Sussex •

SIXTH SENSE

Why A-levels matter at Mayfield School

Feeling PINK

DISCOVER THE JOYS OF THE NEW SEASON IN HORSHAM

Transform Your Space

CHICHESTER

CHICHESTER

Corn Exchange, Baffins Lane, Chichester, PO19 1BF

Corn Exchange, Baffins Lane, Chichester, PO19 1BF

chichester@boconcept.co.uk

BRISTOL

BRISTOL

76-78 Whiteladies Road

76-78 Whiteladies Road

Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2QN

chichester@boconcept.co.uk

01243 786555

01243 786555

Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2QN

bristol@boconcept.co.uk

CARDIFF

CARDIFF

Grand Arcade, St. David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff, CF10 2EL

bristol@boconcept.co.uk

0117 363 7020

0117 363 7020

Grand Arcade, St. David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff, CF10 2EL

cardiff@boconcept.co.uk

02920 343704

cardiff@boconcept.co.uk 02920 343704

CHELTENHAM

CHELTENHAM

68 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, GL52 2ND

68 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, GL52 2ND

cheltenham@boconcept.co.uk

cheltenham@boconcept.co.uk

01242 370427

01242 370427

Live Nature, a new expression of our sustainability progress and enduring commitment to the Danish principle of appreciating life outdoors. Come in store and discover over 120 ways to customise to your own unique style.

Live Nature, a new expression of our sustainability progress and enduring commitment to the Danish principle of appreciating life outdoors. Come in store and discover over 120 ways to customise to your own unique style.

Modena 2.5 seater sofa in dusty green Ravello fabric, Tilburg reclining chair & footstool, Santiago side table, Juliet rug

EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS

MIKE ROBERTS

SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

CARMEN GRAHAM

JUNIOR DESIGNER

JOE MUNSEY

PRODUCTION MANAGER

DANICA BRODIE

GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH

ABIGAIL GARDNER

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER

ALEXANDRA HVID

CRAIG DAVIES

JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE

ALEXANDRA

LETTER Editor’s

ABSOLUTELY’S April issue highlights

Interviewing Peter Komolafe for this issue certainly reminded me of how bad I was with money when I was younger. Post-university, when I had to pay off an extortionate student loan, I used to try and 'trick' the bank when withdrawing money and requesting more than I had. It may have been on nights when I had one too many, but I seem to remember I did, but in hindsight I can't have done. I moved on to taking out loans with a bank that will remain unnamed here. I think I ended up getting three different loans, all adding to what I owed them, and the ease with which I got this actually makes me feel a little sick thinking about it. I just needed someone to say, hey Mark, think about this.

It wasn't until my early 30s that I had paid off everything I owed – and then got a mortgage. Hey, ho. But my story pales into insignifance when you listen to Peter's, which saw him living on the streets of Hastings.

Today, he's one of the leading voices in the world of finance, with one of the key elements to his brand being how simply he puts across everything you need to know about your finances. Just what I needed. His story is an inspiring one, so have a read on page 18.

5

4 Jewellery

Studio Duggan Exploring their latest collection for the home (p58)

Peter Komolafe

An inspiring rags to riches story that started in Hastings (p18)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Wish LIST

10 things we Absolutely love

BY

COMPILED

PENDLE HARTE

SET IN STONE

Samantha Siu creates bold, intricately designed jewellery pieces that spread a message of goodwill and last a lifetime. Each piece is inspired by her travels. samanthasiu.com

LIPS INC

Estee Lauder's new Sabyasachi lipsticks come in gilded cases emblazoned with the Bengal tiger in celebration of India. Each shade is named for the Subcontinent: this is Bengal Rouge, £53. esteelauder.co.uk

RED HOT

Grace de Monaco's Ombre Sereine is intriguing and sensual as layers of bergamot, orange blossom and lavender mingle with deeper notes of leather and musk, £220. gdmonaco.com

PICTURE THIS

Petra Palumbo's modern collection of Del tiles features hand-decorated motifs spanning animals, food and all your favourite things. petrapalumbo.com

LEG WARMER

Legs in bright colours are a major trend and we love the selection at UK Tights, £4.99. uktights.com

EDITOR’S PICK

DARK ARTS

Fatso's rule-breaking dark chocolate comes in four delicious fl avour combinations. We love Morn'n Glory with its cornfl akes and marmelade, £6.75. sofatso.com

IN THE LOOP

Casa by Josephine Jenno's stylish scalloped tea plates in rosy red create a sense of occasion with a side of fun, £99 for four. casabyjj.com

SLOW BURN

Diptyque's Do Son pays tribute to the heritage of Vietnamese culture with a harmonious blend of tuberose, jasmine and orange blossom notes, and a new limited edition collection shrouds it all in red. diptyqueparis.com

FAR FLUNG

Vibrant colours, subtle geometries and exquisitely detailed patterns –this is the Pam Weinstock lifestyle. Shaped by far-flung travels, every print is an ode to continents roamed and each creation is testament to a deep love for photography and exploration. pamweinstock.com

CRIMSON JOY

For stylish lingerie in all colours, book in for a fitting at Amelie's Follies. And why not choose a whole new shade? ameliesfollies.co.uk

CULTURE

Paloma Faith

20 APRIL, THE BRIGHTON CENTRE

Gearing up for another monumental chapter, British superstar Paloma Faith returned with the release of her brand new single and video ‘How You Leave A Man’, which preceded the February release of Paloma’s sixth studio album ‘The Glorification of Sadness’ via RCA Records. Fans will also be delighted to hear that, to celebrate this next era in style, Paloma will embark on the ‘The Glorification Of Sadness Tour 2024’ tour across UK and Ireland, which heads to Brighton this month. brightoncentre.co.uk

The Agenda

THE BEST EVENTS IN SUSSEX

Elias Sime

UNTIL 8 SEPTEMBER, HASTINGS CONTEMPORARY

Experience the extraordinary craftsmanship of one of Ethiopia's leading contemporary artists. This spring, multi-disciplinary artist Elias Sime comes to Hastings with his first major solo show in Europe. Elias deftly weaves, layers and assembles carefully selected everyday materials, transforming commonplace items into lyrical abstract compositions. He often creates intricate works from electronic components –including circuit boards, computer keys, wires and megaphones.

hastingscontemporary.org

ART

Jake Grewal

Until 21 April

PALLANT HOUSE

Discover quiet, thoughtful figures in the landscape in brand new works by contemporary artist, Jake Grewal. A mixture of charcoal drawings and paintings, Jake’s landscapes show nude figures that blend into the dark, earthy scenery. Influenced by British Neo-Romantic artists, such as Keith Vaughan, some of Jake’s figures are alone, whilst others show intimate connections with one another. pallant.org.uk

FAMILY

Easter Activities

2-14 April

WEALD & DOWNLAND

MUSEUM

Join an Easter Egg Trail around the Museum's 40 acre site, plus watch the bakers demonstrate their skills in the historic bakehouse. Looking for tips on how to live more sustainably? Get Thrifty, from 6-7 April, will show visitors how people in the past reduced waste and discover how you can turn unwanted items into something useful. wealddown.co.uk

TIGHTROPE IT IS GREEN 8, 2023 COURTESY THE ARTIST PHOTO PHOEBE D HEURLE

ART

EVENT

TULIP FESTIVAL

Throughout April

ARUNDEL CASTLE

The esteemed Tulip Festival at Arundel Castle is set to make a grand return in 2024. This festival is one of Europe's premier showcases of tulips, unfolding against the enchanting backdrop of the castle's gardens. Visitors will be immersed in a sea of colours as the festival features over 120 varieties of tulips meticulously planned by the castle's acclaimed Head Gardener, Martin Duncan, and planted by his dedicated team. arundelcastle.org

EVENT

Spring Live!

20-21 April SOUTH OF ENGLAND SHOWGROUND

Spring Live! o ers a unique opportunity for visitors to get outside and experience live and interactive entertainment, a plethora of shopping stalls, and mouth-watering artisan treats from local producers. The weekend event is also packed with exciting competitions and activities, including the newly added Pygmy Goat Show, the Alpaca Show, lawn mower racing, Morris dancing, a fun dog show, archery and axe throwing. seas.org.uk

FOR

Discover your creativity at West Dean in 2024

Pottery to printmaking, basketry to blacksmithing, glasswork to gardening… whether you want to embark on a new creative pursuit, refine your technique, or learn a lost cra , West Dean has a course for you.

Do you have a passion for painting? Or a desire to draw?

Vintage CAR SHOW

This Month’s Must See T

he Vintage Car Show returns to Amberley Museum. Join them as they showcase a selection of marvellous pre1956 vehicles once again. As well as admiring over 100 vintage cars, visitors can shop for collectors’ items at the autojumble stalls and speak to the owners. This event is for both enthusiasts and families, with plenty of activities around the West Sussex museum for children. Their Southdown Vintage Buses will be operating, as well as ‘Peter’, their steam locomotive. amberleymuseum.co.uk

The exclusive pop-up short course programme offers courses with a variety of different techniques, styles and materials. From self-portraiture to observational painting, markmaking to ink experimentation, and printmaking – there’s a course tailored just for you. This month, have a go at Charcoal Drawing (8 April), then try Watercolour Painting for Beginners (16-18 June) or make the most of the spectacular scenery with Watercolour Painting ‘En Plein Air’ (26 July-1 August). Working in the expansive College grounds you will be guided through techniques, shown how to use composition to create focus and drama, and how the narrative of the painting can draw the viewer in. If you are looking for something a little different why not learn a traditional cra . Heritage cra s have stood the test of time and West Dean’s courses offer a unique handson experience. Try the Creative Blacksmithing: Ideas, Design and Techniques course (30 May-2 June), which will introduce you to different blacksmithing techniques to form hot steel and produce your own finished piece. Take inspiration from West Dean, its unique landscape and buildings, and create your own Stained Glass (9-15 August). You will learn all the techniques needed to make a stained glass panel, explore the use of decorative sandblasting and come away with your very own stained glass panel.

out more about all the courses available and book at westdean.ac.uk

7 APRIL, AMBERLEY MUSEUM

BLACKSMITHING WITH CARA WASSENBERG

PHOTO BY CHRIS ISON

Money TALKS

From living on the streets in Hastings to becoming a leading voice in finance on our TVs, Peter Komolafe has had quite the life. Absolutely Sussex finds out more

Peter Komolafe is unlike any financial advisor I have met before. It’s not even the fact he’s a stylish, jargon-free personality, more a back story that involves spending time on the streets around Hastings. “I didn’t understand money or budgeting,” he says of that time, happy to be open about such a low point in his life. “I was in a house share with a group of people. We all had a falling out, I didn’t really manage money that well and I was on the streets from that point. For two weeks I slept on the seafront, in Bottle Alley, slept in Priory Meadows, slept under tables in the town centre, any place I could find a bit of warmth really. With that being said it was an incredibly important time for me, it helped me forge character, and it gave me an ambition and an appreciation for the small things in life. I never want to go back there, a pivotal learning moment to catapult myself into a better life.”

He spent his early life in Hastings with a foster family. “My earliest memories of Hastings are probably of the old pier, the seafront, seagulls and the smell of fish and chips,” he smiles. “I have always felt drawn to Hastings. I miss the seafront, I miss taking a walk, I miss that fresh brisk sea air, and I miss the vibe there, particularly in the summer.”

When he was eight, he went to Nigeria for what was meant to be a two-week holiday, which actually turned into ten years. He returned to Hastings at 18 and moved back in with his foster parents, but it was when he left them that his initial money problems really came home to roost. Ironic, then, that he soon had a job as a cashier at The Portman Building Society (now Nationwide).

“My first job was a complete and utter mistake, fortunate given how everything has worked out,” he laughs. “I was on benefits at the time, I wasn’t too long o the streets at that point, and the deal to remain on benefits was I had to demonstrate I was going for job interviews and looking for work. So I had a meeting with one of the job centre attendees

and he said we have lined up a couple of interviews, this might be a good company to work for, apply for it. At that point I was in debt, so I didn’t really want to rock up to a bank or building society because I owed them money, the simple fact was I didn’t think I would get a job period. I went to the interview and tried to sabotage it as much as possible. I rocked up in jeans and leather jacket and was disinterested, but the lady who interviewed me, Jenny Berry, I don’t know what she saw me in, but she saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself at the time and she is the reason why I have my career in financial services and why I do things like this interview, because she gave me my start. I am very grateful for that first job at The Portman Building Society in Eastbourne. Good times, I learnt so much, it was an amazing learning curve to be on. It was a new environment for sure, so it was definitely a blessing at that stage of my life.”

Despite any misgivings Peter had about the job, he quickly rose through the ranks with his approachable manner, and an ability to explain things simply. Through

“I don't pretend to be anything that I am not”

his 15-year career that has followed, Peter has worked in retail banking, corporate banking and wealth management. During this time, he has held key roles at some of the biggest financial institutions, including Natwest/RBS, MetLife, St James Place and Investec Wealth & Investment.

Now, Peter hosts the Money and More Podcast, which enables him to o er his sage advice to a wider audience. “It is essentially my company and the goal is to help people make better financial decisions by understanding how financial products and the financial universe works,” he says. “I think there is a lot of jargon around financial services, it is made out to sound and be more complex than it is, and when you really boil down to the essence of what all of this means it is actually very simple to grasp. So my company is designed to help people understand what the system is, how to interface with the system, and how to make better financial decisions. There is a lot of psychology that comes into this, a lot

of it is to do with the way we were brought up, our beliefs, our habits, the way we see the world when it comes to money and finances. My job is to provide really easy, simple to understand information so people can make better decisions from a financial point of view and try to figure out what money and the role of money is in their lives personally.”

It’s proved such a success that, inevitably, TV came calling. “I started my YouTube channel in 2020, and through 2020-21 I used to do – and I still do to a certain extent – live Q&A sessions on a Sunday evening. I would sit on my YouTube channel and take questions from people, and we would cover all kinds of topics from budgeting to investing to mortgages. Unbeknownst to me at the time, someone was watching the channel who was connected to a production company working on a programme for Channel 4. One day I saw an email from that production company saying that they would love for me to be involved in a Channel 4 show and really

HASTINGS

the rest is history. That show was Secret Spenders: Beat The Price Rises and everything that I have done from that point on in TV is a byproduct of that show. I have done Lorraine, Steph’s Packed Lunch, Sky News, GB News, Channel 5… It all started from my YouTube channel answering questions and trying to be as helpful as possible.”

PIER

Peter has come far since those bleak days on the streets, but he accentuates how it has all helped to make him the person he is today. “One of the big hang ups when I started on YouTube was that I wasn’t confident about putting my face to what I was doing. A friend of mine said you are a qualified financial advisor and you don’t look like the typical financial advisor and you will be more relatable, and I think that’s true to a certain extent. I am a relatively young guy, I don’t talk like a traditional financial advisor, I am very straight down the line, I try to keep things very simple, I don’t use jargon, and I just talk about things like you would do with your mate down the pub. I think that goes a long way to how much attention people pay to what I say, I don’t pretend to be anything that I am not. Authenticity is at the core of what I am doing and I think that goes a long way.”

peterkomolafe.com

PETER MISSES DAYS IN HASTINGS

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10 OF THE BEST

Sussex in spring

Springtime in Sussex heralds the awakening of nature from its wintry slumber, painting the landscape with vibrant colours and filling the air with the sweet fragrance of blossoms. As temperatures rise and daylight hours extend, Sussex becomes a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and vitality of the season. From tranquil gardens to scenic coastal walks, Sussex o ers an array of enchanting destinations where one can fully embrace the spirit of spring. Here, Absolutely picks out the top 10 places in Sussex to make the most of this magical season.

Embrace the splendour of the new season across the county

BRIGHTON PAVILION GARDENS

Start your springtime odyssey in the vibrant city of Brighton, where the iconic Pavilion Gardens burst into bloom with the arrival of spring. Take a leisurely stroll amidst exotic flora and elegant pathways, or simply bask in the sunshine as you soak up the lively atmosphere of this coastal gem.

BLUEBELL RAILWAY

Embark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Bluebell Railway, a heritage steam railway that winds its way through the idyllic countryside of Sussex. Travel back in time as you chug past fields ablaze with golden rapeseed and woodlands carpeted with a sea of bluebells, casting a spellbinding charm that is quintessentially spring.

WAKEHURST

Experience the wonder of spring at Wakehurst, home to the internationally renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Wander through the enchanting woodlands ablaze with bluebells and marvel at the diverse collection of flora from around

the world. Don’t miss the mesmerising display of cherry blossoms in the Japanese Garden or the vibrant hues of the wildflower meadows, which come alive with buzzing bees and fluttering butterflies.

HIGH WEALD

For those craving outdoor adventures, the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty beckons with its rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and picturesque villages. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the network of trails that wind through this bucolic landscape, o ering panoramic vistas of the countryside adorned with the fresh greenery of spring.

ARUNDEL CASTLE GARDENS

Step back in time at Arundel Castle Gardens, where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with the beauty of spring. Marvel at the meticulously manicured gardens, adorned with fragrant roses, vibrant tulips, and lush green lawns. Take a guided tour of the castle grounds and immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of this iconic landmark.

BRIGHTON PAVILION

BLUEBELL RAILWAY

CHICHESTER HARBOUR

Indulge in maritime delights at Chichester Harbour, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty fringed by picturesque villages and sheltered creeks. Embark on a sailing adventure or simply stroll along the tranquil shoreline, where the salty breeze carries the promise of warmer days ahead.

SHEFFIELD PARK AND GARDEN

Nestled in the heart of East Sussex, She eld Park and Garden is renowned for its breathtaking displays of spring blooms. Admire the kaleidoscope of colours as da odils, rhododendrons, and azaleas carpet the landscape in a riot of hues. Take leisurely strolls along the tranquil lakeside paths or relax amidst the tranquil beauty of the ornamental gardens, where the delicate scent of blossoms fills the air.

SOUTH DOWNS

NATIONAL PARK

Embrace the great outdoors at South Downs National Park, where sprawling chalk hills and verdant valleys provide the perfect backdrop for springtime adventures. Cycle along the scenic South Downs Way, hike to the summit of towering peaks, or simply revel in the tranquillity of nature as it bursts into life all around you.

DEVIL’S DYKE

Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of Devil’s Dyke, a dramatic chalk valley nestled in the South Downs. Embark on exhilarating walks along the ridge, where panoramic views stretch as far as the eye

“The kaleidoscope of colours carpet the landscape in a riot of hues”

can see, and revel in the sight of colourful wildflowers dancing in the breeze. This is what spring days are made for.

LEWES CASTLE AND BARBICAN HOUSE MUSEUM

Discover the historic town of Lewes and its architectural treasures, including the imposing Lewes Castle and Barbican House Museum. Explore the castle grounds adorned with vibrant spring blooms and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the medieval battlements.

CHICHESTER HARBOUR

SHEFFIELD PARK

LEWES CASTLE

CRAFT WORKS

Celebrating two decades of Collect contemporary craft fair

LAt a time when contemporary craft has never been more sought after with an active buying market, Collect continues to o er an unparalleled opportunity to acquire new, museum-quality work from living artists internationally – all made within the last five years, and many commissioned especially for the fair.

Focusing on exclusivity, reputation, rich narrative and thoughtful curation – seeking variety and diversity in its content and vision, a line-up of close to 40 specialist galleries from across the globe, representing over 400 artist makers, have been selected by an expert advisory panel for this milestone edition.

Collectors, interior designers, art advisors and wider enthusiasts, will be vying with arts institutions, such as the Victoria & Albert Museum, to buy and commission the very best in contemporary craft. As well as the seasoned collectors buying at the luxury end of the market, Collect encourages visitors at the beginning of their collecting journey with works starting as low as £500 presented side by side with pieces ranging up to £50,000+.

aunched in 2004 as the first international fair dedicated to contemporary craft and design, Collect is committed and continues to raise the profile of exceptional contemporary craft to the collectors’ market on an annual basis.

The range of disciplines and materials at Collect spreads widely including ceramics, glass, lacquer, furniture, art jewellery, metalwork,

CHARLES BURNAND GALLERY

textile and fibre, wood and paper, and pieces embracing more unusual materials such as resin, mica, corn-starch and plastics – as well as reused, repurposed, and recycled materials.

Alongside the international galleries Collect Open, the fair’s platform for experimental proposals and installations by individual artists and collectives, will present 14 exciting new projects by artists hailing from Canada, Portugal, and from all over the UK including Northern Ireland. Collect Open participants are selected by a separate expert advisory panel and are invited to produce work that challenges material, social, political or personal perceptions.

“Reaching this milestone edition reinforces not only Collect’s pivotal position as the authority for contemporary craft and design, but also strengthens the capital as a leading cultural destination for the craft and design sector,” says Isobel Dennis, Collect Fair Director. “The fair has continuously pushed boundaries to bring the best in class of new artworks to the market allowing collectors to buy with confidence. The diverse range of galleries for this edition, representing the most exciting international artists making work today, provide yet again exceptional rich content to explore.”

Designed especially for Collect 2024, British textile artist Margo Selby, represented by Cynthia Corbett Gallery (England), will present a largescale hand-woven artwork, which will hang down the impressive, architecturally distinct Stamp Stair, a five-storey period staircase at Somerset House.

2024 marks 20 years of Collect as the leading authority on collectable contemporary craft and design, presented by the UK’s Crafts Council.

FROM LEFT: MAUD & MABEL, CAVALIERO FINN, CAVALIERO FINN

FROM LEFT: DESIGN-NATION, BR GALLERY, GALERIE REVEL

MARGO SELBY AND CRYSTAL LATIMER PRESENTED BY CYNTHIA CORBETT GALLERY AT COLLECT 2023 CREDIT DAVID PARRY, PA MEDIA

Life in the French Riviera is warm, effortless, and enduring—a spirit perfectly captured in the new Le Creuset stoneware gifting collection. Featuring ten sets in coastal-inspired hues, the Riviera Collection is unmistakably joyful and the perfect gift for travel and adventure lovers.

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LE CREUSET HAMPSTEAD, 31 HEATH STREET, LONDON. NW3 6TR.

TEL: 0207 4356109 • E-MAIL: HAMPSTEAD.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET ISLINGTON, 137 UPPER STREET, LONDON. N1 1QP.

TEL: 0207 2261595 • E-MAIL: ISLINGTON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET MARYLEBONE, 6 NEW CAVENDISH STREET, LONDON. W1G 8UH.

TEL: 0207 4865404 • E-MAIL: MARYLEBONE.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET MUSWELL HILL, 74 MUSWELL HILL BROADWAY, LONDON. N10 3RT.

TEL: 0208 8834394 • E-MAIL: MUSWELLHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET NOTTING HILL, 54 LEDBURY RD., NOTTING HILL, LONDON. W11 2AJ.

TEL: 0203 2200017 • E-MAIL: NOTTINGHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET ST. ALBANS, 27 MARKET PLACE, ST. ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE. AL3 5DL.

TEL: 01727 850453 • E-MAIL: STALBANS.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET WIMBLEDON, 4 CHURCH RD., WIMBLEDON VILLAGE, LONDON. SW19 5DL.

TEL: 0208 9440624 • E-MAIL: WIMBLEDON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

FOOD & DRINK

EVENT DINING

ETCH.

Early in March, Absolutely Sussex was invited to a unique event involving the Michelin-starred chef of Opheem, Aktar Islam, along with Steven Edwards at etch. Aktar cooked alongside Steven and the etch. team to raise funds for the TableTalk Foundation. This followed an event that took place at Brighton & Hove Albion’s Tunnel Club on 29 February, when Steven cooked and auctioned off a private catering experience to raise funds for the Albion Foundation charity. etchfood.co.uk

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

By THE WINE SOCIETY

Blanquette de Limoux Méthode Ancestrale, Antech NV

 £10.61

A delightful, sweet and e ervescent Languedoc white, fermented just once in bottle. Refreshingly light, low in alcohol and with a taste reminiscent of apples, this is perfect with fruit-based desserts such as apple pie as well as lightly spiced canapés.

Undurraga Cauquenes

Estate Carignan 2020  £9.95

From 60-year-old, unirrigated bush vines, this ripe black-fruit scented Chilean carignan maintains a wonderful freshness and firmness on the palate. Ideal with the fatty cuts of oxtail, shoulder of lamb or pork.

Bogle Vineyard California Chardonany 2021  £14.50

A proper California chardonnay, 50% aged in American oak for eight months to give rich vanilla and nutmeg spice. The other half is aged in steel to retain the fresh peach and lemon character.

Since it was founded back in 1874, The Wine Society has dared to do business a little differently. Bringing together a community united by a shared love of wine, The Society is a co-operative and owned by its members. This means there is no requirement to pump profit into annual dividends or bonuses for shareholders – all profits go back into the business. The Wine Society welcomes all wine lovers. Become a member today and receive £20 off toward your first order. thewinesociety.com

Food news and most exciting openings across the industry NOTES

By PENDLE HARTE

TASTING Star shine

RESTAURANT INTERLUDE

Restaurant Interlude at historic Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens has been awarded a Michelin Green Star, the first restaurant in West Sussex to receive this accolade. It recognises Interlude’s outstanding sustainable practices and ethically sourced seasonal cuisine crafted by executive chef Jean Delport. This is the fifth consecutive year that Restaurant Interlude has won a Michelin Star and its first Green Star since opening in 2018. restaurant-interlude.co.uk

Perfect view

RIDGEVIEW

Step into a whole new world of dining at The Rows & Vine restaurant at Ridgeview. Transformed into a cosy, contemporary dining space, The Rows & Vine has taken residence in the Ridgeview winery. Join them for front row seats to winemaking in motion, whilst you sip, savour and celebrate. ridgeview.co.uk

Simple sushi

STICKS'N'SUSHI

Originating from Copenhagen, Sticks’n’Sushi fuses influences from Japan and Denmark. Helping demystify the cuisine of sushi, the menu is presented as a photo album featuring images of every dish. There are 12 outlets in the UK, so plenty of chances to tuck in. sticksnsushi.com

TAKE THREE

Chocolate treats for the Easter holidays

CHOCOCO

Chococo's Dino Easter egg is hand-decorated to look like a mottled dinosaur eggshell and cra ed in 47% Colombia origin milk chocolate. Avid paleontologists will discover mini origin milk, white and dark chocolate dinosaurs and ammonites inside. chococo.co.uk

GELUPO

Gelateria Gelupo will be reuniting with bakery and restaurant Jolene for tongue-in-cheek gelato ‘creme egg’ toasted buns, as well as tasty hot cross bun ice cream sandwiches. gelupo.com

HOTEL CHOCOLAT

Hotel Chocolat's Ostrich Egg is a decadent Easter egg filled with chocolates, truffles, pralines, caramels and more, £85. hotelchocolat.com

HOT STUFF

CREAMS CAFE

Creams Cafe in Crawley is saying hello to a selection of brand-new menu items which are sure to add a touch of warmth to our lives. Dessert enthusiasts looking for a wintery pick-me-up can indulge in two new Hot Pockets and the classic Hot Chocolate Fudge Cake, as well as a highstreet first: Hot GeLattes. creamscafe.com

QUICK FIX

OCHRE

Ochre, the modern British restaurant in the National Gallery, has launched a new pre-theatre lunch menu. For only £18, guests can enjoy Cornish Mussels served with a cider, leek and cream sauce, fries and a drink. Or opt for fried pollock bun with gribiche mayonnaise and apple tarte tatin. ochre.london

Easy bakes

Simple recipes for time-poor bakers

Words FLORENCE STANTON

Chocolate & Hazelnut

Pull-apart Loaf

Serves 8

Another chocolate for breakfast situation? Yes! This ‘pull-apart’ loaf, made of layers of pillowy bread dough sandwiched around chocolate hazelnut spread, is a real treat to eat while it’s still warm.

35 mins hands-on time

Resting and proving time: 1 hr 30 mins

Bake time: 40 mins

Total: 2 hrs 45 mins

INGREDIENTS

• 1 x 7g/¼oz sachet fastacting instant yeast

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 250ml (8fl oz/1 cup) tepid water

• 55g (2oz) butter, melted, plus a little extra for brushing the finished loaf

• 200g (7oz/1½ cups) strong white bread flour

• 150g (5½oz/generous 1 cup) plain (allpurpose) flour, plus extra for dusting

• 3 tsp fine sea salt

• 200g (7oz) chocolate hazelnut spread

• 75g (3oz) hazelnuts, crushed a little flavourless/mildflavoured oil, for greasing

METHOD

1 Combine the yeast, sugar and tepid water in a large bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, stir and leave it to sit and let the yeast ‘bloom’ for 10 minutes (it should look bubbly).

2 Add the melted butter and both types of flour to the yeast mixture, along with the salt, and bring together. Once a shaggy dough has formed, knead for 10 minutes by hand on a floured surface, or 5–7 minutes in the mixer on medium speed, until it forms a smooth, springy ball. Lightly oil the bowl, place the dough back into it, cover with a clean tea towel and leave to rest in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

3 Lightly oil a 900g (2lb) loaf tin (pan). Divide the dough into about 12 balls then roll each ball of dough flat on a floured surface and top it with chocolate hazelnut spread in an even layer. Top with some crushed hazelnuts, saving some to scatter over at the end. Fold each piece of chocolatecovered dough in half, creating a

semi-circle. Place these pieces of dough in the tin with the folded edge at the bottom. Leave to prove in a warm place, covered with a tea towel, for 30 minutes.

4 Preheat the oven to 180°C fan (200°C/400°F/Gas 6).

5 Bake the risen loaf in the oven for 40 minutes until golden brown on top.

6 Remove from the oven, brush with some melted butter, sprinkle with the remaining crushed hazelnuts and serve warm!

7 The loaf will keep well for up to 2–3 days in an airtight container. Give it a 20-second flash in the microwave to reheat, if you like.

Goat’s Cheese, Fig & Walnut Tart

Serves 6

This is one of those recipes that may have you debating whether it totally fits into the savoury category, but it’s a wonderful thing for those who love a cheese course a er a meal or the cheese/fruit combination. There is added salt to keep it as a lunchtime treat, and this will sit amazingly as part of a lunch, perhaps alongside a Waldorf salad. 15 mins hands-on time

Bake time: 30 mins

Total: 45 mins

INGREDIENTS

• 320g (11¼oz) ready-rolled all-butter pu pastry

• A little flour, for dusting

• 125g (4½oz) goat’s cheese

• 100g (3½oz) crème fraîche

• 4 fresh figs

• 75g (2½oz) walnuts, coarsely chopped

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Handful of fresh rocket (arugula), to serve

METHOD

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C fan (200°C/400°F/Gas 6) and line a large baking tray with baking parchment (or a silicone liner).

2 Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to create a rectangle a little smaller than your baking tray – it should be about 1cm (½in) thick – and place it on the tray.

3 Mix together the goat’s cheese and crème fraîche in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Spread this mixture onto the pastry, leaving an edge of about 2.5cm (1in) around the border of the pastry to create crusts.

4 Thinly slice the figs lengthways and scatter them over the goat’s cheese mixture, then add the chopped walnuts. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes, until cooked through and the edges are a rich golden colour. Remove and leave to cool on a wire rack, scatter the rocket (arugula) over the top and serve.

Vegan No-bake Chocolate & Pistachio Bars (ti n)

Serves 8

Tiffin is another word for fridge cake or no-bake cakes. This recipe comprises lots of melted chocolate, biscuits and fruit folded together, then le to set in the fridge before slicing. This makes it really versatile, so do play with the flavours/ biscuits/add-ins. This will sit in the fridge for a few days, tempting you to come and take a piece every time you open the door.

15 mins hands-on time

Chill time: 1 hr minimum

Total: 1 hr 15 mins

INGREDIENTS

• 350g (12oz) dark chocolate, chopped

• 75g (2½oz) vegan butter

• 3 tbsp golden syrup (corn syrup) or light molasses

• 100g (3½oz) dried cranberries

• 150g (5½oz) digestive biscuits (or graham crackers), coarsely crushed

Topping

• 200g (7oz) dark chocolate, chopped

• 75g (3oz) pistachios, shelled and chopped

METHOD

1 Line a 20cm (8in) square brownie/baking tin with baking parchment.

2 Put the chocolate, butter and golden syrup (corn syrup) in a large heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (making sure the bottom of the bowl isn’t touching the water) and stir until combined and glossy.

3 Turn o the heat, add the cranberries and crushed biscuits to the melted chocolate mixture and stir until combined. Pour this mixture into the tin and spread it out evenly, pressing to the sides.

4 Make the topping: melt the dark chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring regularly. Once melted, pour it on top of the biscuit base. Sprinkle over the chopped pistachios. Let it set in the fridge for at least an hour (overnight is fine). Once set, cut with a hot knife for perfectly smooth slices.

5 The tiffin will keep well for up to 5–7 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

“This will sit in the fridge, tempting you every time you open the door”

Recipes taken from Part-Time Baker by Florence Stanton, published by Carnival, £18.99

Sparkle this

SPRING

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BLOOMS SPRING

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

All Eyes

LASHIFY

Inventors of the Underlash Technology™, Lashify is the world's first DIY lash extension system. Start with the brand's Control Kit, and then mix and match the Gossamer® sets to create your perfect lash look at home. An absolute beauty gamechanger.

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EXPERT IN THE N A TUR AL LOOK

EXPERT IN THE NATURAL LOOK Treat your mother to timeless beauty

a highly respected and much sought

Doctor Nyla is a skin specialist, trusted by TV personalities, well-known celebrity figures and some of Britain’s most familiar faces in the media industry. Founder and Medical Director of Doctor Nyla Medispa Cheshire is a highly respected and much sought after cosmetic Dermatology GP and is considered one of the top cosmetic doctors in the country. Having practised medicine for over 20 years and having personally delivered over 200,000 treatments with truly exceptional results, she has gained the admiration of the industry.

TRANSFORMATION FACELIFT TM

TRANSFORMATION FACELIFT TM

The Transformation Facelift TM is a bespoke treatment from Doctor Nyla, unique to her clinics and combining a variety of incredible anti-ageing treatments to make you look and feel 10 years younger in the space of only six weeks! The next generation, multiplatform transformational facial offered exclusively at Dr Nyla.This treatment offers nonsurgical skin tightening and lifting to treat all anti-ageing concerns – from textured, dull skin, to deep wrinkles and loss of laxity.

The Transformation Facelift TM is a bespoke treatment from Doctor Nyla, unique to her clinics and combining a variety of incredible anti-ageing treatments to make you look and feel 10 years younger in the space of only six weeks! The next generation, multiplatform transformational facial offered exclusively at Dr Nyla. This treatment offers nonsurgical skin tightening and lifting to treat all anti-ageing concerns – from textured, dull skin, to deep wrinkles and loss of laxity.

The treatment programme can combine a number of super technologies dependant upon your specific concerns such as Ultherapy, Exilis Elite radio frequency, Morpheus skin needling as well as tweaking with injectable enhancements where necessary, to give immediate & longterm results with minimal downtime.The skin will begin to feel smoother and tighter after the first treatment and results will continue to improve for up to six months.

The treatment programme can combine a number of super technologies dependant upon your specific concerns such as Ultherapy, Exilis Elite radio frequency, Morpheus skin needling as well as tweaking with injectable enhancements where necessary, to give immediate & longterm results with minimal downtime. The skin will begin to feel smoother and tighter after the first treatment and results will continue to improve for up to six months.

UNLOCK THE ULTIMATE BODY TRANSFORMATION

UNLOCK THE ULTIMATE BODY TRANSFORMATION

Are you ready to embark on a journey towards a transformed body that exudes confidence and radiance? Look no further than Dr Nyla Clinic’s groundbreaking Transformation Body Lift. This revolutionary treatment combines the power of CoolSculpting Elite and Emerald fat reduction lasers but combined with Em sculpt , ultrasound, and radio frequency needling utilising Morpheus to deliver incredible results that go beyond fat reduction, targeting loose skin, cellulite, and stretch marks.

Are you ready to embark on a journey towards a transformed body that exudes confidence and radiance? Look no further than Dr Nyla Clinic’s groundbreaking Transformation Body Lift.This revolutionary treatment combines the power of CoolSculpting Elite and Emerald fat reduction lasers but combined with Em sculpt , ultrasound, and radio frequency needling utilising Morpheus to deliver incredible results that go beyond fat reduction, targeting loose skin, cellulite, and stretch marks.

The Transformation Body Lift utilizes the latest advancements in technology to specifically target and reduce unwanted fat deposits permanently this treatment helps you can achieve a slimmer and more sculpted silhouette.Dr Nyla Clinic’s Transformation Body Lift is designed to tackle these common issues such as resistant stubborn fat and stretch marks by utilising Cryo lipolysis. It will permanently eradicate fat, as well as stimulating, collagen and elastin,, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and revitalized.

The Transformation Body Lift utilizes the latest advancements in technology to specifically target and reduce unwanted fat deposits permanently this treatment helps you can achieve a slimmer and more sculpted silhouette.Dr Nyla Clinic’s Transformation Body Lift is designed to tackle these common issues such as resistant stubborn fat and stretch marks by utilising Cryo lipolysis. It will permanently eradicate fat, as well as stimulating, collagen and elastin,, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and revitalized.

Choose Dr Nyla Clinic for the ultimate body rejuvenating experience. Reveal a more sculpted figure, smoother skin, and newfound confidence.Your journey towards the body of your dreams starts here.

Choose Dr Nyla Clinic for the ultimate body rejuvenating experience. Reveal a more sculpted figure, smoother skin, and newfound confidence. Your journey towards the body of your dreams starts here.

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By CARLY GLENDINNING

REVIEW

TRISH MCEVOY

BODY SHAPING GLOW TIME SUN SAFE

TIME

EDITOR’S PICK

EIGHTH DAY

EIGHTH DAY, the doctor-led bioidentical skincare brand, has launched a new intensive moisturiser. Addressing the signs of UV-induced skin ageing, it gives you a noticeable glow, £225. net-a-porter.com

IThe Power of Makeup® Lesson

IRÄYE X FLAVIA MORELLATO

IRÄYE has partnered with leading lymphatic drainage expert, Flavia Morellato, to create an exclusive body set harnessing the powers of Gua-Sha. Featuring the brand’s Shaping Body Cream, it harnesses the detoxifying benefits of lymphatic drainage massage, £125. irayeskincare.com

ULTRA VIOLETTE

Mixing makeup with your SPF risks ruining your sunscreen’s efficiency. Available in bronzing or illuminating, Ultra Violette’s new SKINSCREEN™ makeup hybrid protects as well as delivering an all over glow, £33. ultraviolette.co.uk

t’s been some years since my last makeup lesson, so I’m excited to brush up on my skills when I stop by the Trish McEvoy beauty counter in Selfridges in London. The American brand is one of the best kept secrets in the beauty industry, pioneering with its skincare and makeup products for over 40 years. Tucked in a corner of the store’s beauty department, I’m greeted by the lovely Becky. She explains that the lesson is based on levels, determined by how much time you like to spend in front of the mirror. As a toddler mum it’s all about speed for me, which puts me firmly in the ‘Level 1’ category. First Becky preps my face – cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating, and priming with SPF. A cosmetic dream team, Trish McEvoy and her husband Ronald Sherman (a dermatologist) were amongst the first to combine makeup with skincare in the ‘80s. Their expertise is evident in how amazing the products make my skin feel. Next, it’s time to play with some makeup looks. Becky shows me how to apply each product on one side of my face, and then I mimic it on the other. This ensures that I know how to recreate the look myself. She files each product in the Trish McEvoy Makeup Planner®, the brand’s genius makeup organiser. I usually hate it when anyone else does my makeup, but Becky does an amazing job. My skin is glowing and she’s made my eyes really pop. I leave armed with my very own Makeup Planner® (£35) loaded with my favourite products purchased after the lesson.

TRISH MCEVOY

Selfridges, Oxford Street trishmcevoy.com

Beehive Care, the thriving heatbeat of West Sussex

Whether you are in need of assisted living, respite services or support at home, BeehiveCare is here to provide the care and attention you deserve. We are a charity organisation in Worthing, Ferring, and the surrounding areas.

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TOP PICKS

THREE FITNESS GADGETS

RELAX & RECOVER

This lightweight massage gun from Clemas packs a powerful punch. Designed to eliminate muscle pain, it can be used on the shoulders, back, arms, legs, thighs, calves, hands and feet, £30.99. amazon.co.uk

TWIST IT

This twisting disc provides dual functionality with le and right rotation to help you sculpt and tone your body by burning fat as well as a soothing acupoint massage setting to aid in your recovery, £8.99. amazon.co.uk

HULA TIME

This weighted hula hoop is designed to help you burn fat and boost flexibility. It can be adjusted to match your waist size and has a weighted ball for enhanced performance. The perfect addition to your home gym, £28.99. amazon.co.uk

FITNESS

NOTES

By CARLY GLENDINNING

SLOW FLOW

Carly Glendinning meets Sarah Malcolm, founder of At Home with Sarah, a fitness app focused on mobility training

Q How did you get into teaching yoga?

A I wanted to learn more about yoga (having practiced for 7 years and fallen in love with how it made me feel), but after day 1 of my 200 hour yoga teacher training, I felt it deep in my bones that this was the path for me and I’ve never looked back.

Q Tell us about your platform

'At Home with Sarah'?

A At Home with Sarah was born in lockdown after the success of my zoom classes and now has almost 200 videos. It’s a place to come home to yourself. To check in with how you’re feeling. And the practices are all there with that in mind. My classes are not about physical appearances or whether or

not you can do the splits, it’s about how you feel when you turn down the noise of busy life. A place for you to find peace and ultimately feel at home in your own body.

Q And what about your yoga retreats?

A They are an extension of my teaching and values. Nothing needs to be perfect. I invite my guests to come as they are and rest as much as or as little as they need. There is always a mix of soothing and energizing yoga practices, alongside hearty, delicious, and comforting food! Mixed with the biggest dose of nature and just wonderfully feel good vibes. Nothing is restricted on my retreats, it’s all about enjoyment.

Q Has your relationship to movement changed since you became a mother?

A Oh yes! Motherhood has been the biggest learning of my life. I met a whole new person in myself, and having had an emergency c section, my recovery was very di erent to what I imagined. I’m sti er than ever so I appreciate the slow practices and the power of the breath so much more now. But equally reminding myself that I will find my strength again with the stronger practices when I’m ready.

Subscription to 'At Home with Sarah' is £17 a month or £96 for 6 months.

sarahmalcolm.co.uk

We are increasingly spending our private lives in our homes rediscovering how much pleasure it is to spend time with family and friends. A pool is an attractive extension of your living area the ultimate way to enjoy your free time and enhance your lifestyle and health. Choose from a wide range of designs and sizes with a comprehensive package that leaves nothing to be desired.

A state-of-the-art product with a quick hassle-free installation.

Your pool will not only enrich your family’s life but also increase the value of your home

INTERIORS

OPENING DOORS

Previously a 1970s property, this West Sussex home has been transformed from top to bottom into a beautifully airy, bright and spacious three-bedroom spot by the coast. Designed and built by 50.8 Architecture + Interiors, the homeowner’s brief was to open everything up as much as possible to bring in the maximum amount of light and feeling of space.

IMAGE: CHRIS SNOOK PHOTOGRAPHY

Treasure TROVE

How Trove by Studio Duggan contributes to stylish, personal interiors

By EVE HERBERT

Trove by Studio Duggan is a distinctive home and lifestyle brand, reflecting the unique design philosophy of the UK-based interior design firm, Studio Duggan. Founded and curated by Ti any Duggan, Trove o ers a range of bespoke furniture, lighting, and accessories, combining a nomadic yet timeless sensibility with an emphasis on quality, craftsmanship and the pursuit of beauty.

Studio Duggan, established in 2011 by Ti any Duggan, is known for creating finely

crafted and thoughtfully designed interiors for high-end residential and boutique commercial projects. Ti any’s background in set design and interior styling, alongside her studies in Theatre Practice, Scenic Art, and Interior Design, laid a solid foundation for her creative approach. The studio’s design philosophy centres around creating liveable yet dramatic spaces, combining di erent eras and styles to achieve a perfect blend of form, colour, texture, and scale. This approach is underpinned by a deep respect for the client’s brief, ensuring that each project is both holistic and unique.

The Trove collection, launched in 2019, is an extension of Studio Duggan’s signature style. It features a diverse range of products

“An emphasis on quality, craftsmanship and the pursuit of beauty”

“The studio’s philosophy centres around creating liveable yet dramatic spaces”

including headboards, beds, lighting, seating, case goods, and accessories, all designed by the studio. Additionally, Trove includes a curated selection of vintage finds. The collection allows for customisation, o ering a personalized touch to home decor. Trove’s showroom and the Studio Duggan design studio in London provides a space where the vision of both entities co-exists seamlessly.

Studio Duggan’s work has been recognized and featured in numerous prestigious publications and has received accolades such as the Homes and Gardens Design Award in 2021 for ‘Best Kitchen Design’. The studio’s projects, showcasing their design philosophy and approach, have been included in magazines like House & Garden, How to Spend It, Elle Decoration, Livingetc, and The Telegraph.

Trove by Studio Duggan represents a fusion of artistic creativity and practicality, o ering a unique blend of contemporary design with a nod to historical influences. Its range of products is designed to evolve and mature over time, mirroring the studio’s ethos of creating spaces that are both dynamic and harmonious

HOME SPA STYLISH BATHROOM ACCESSORIES

RIGHT ANGLES

PORCELAIN SUPERSTORE

Featuring a geometric design and simple colour tones, these Ashford tiles are perfect for almost anywhere; they’ll look just as good in a modern bathroom as in a period hallway. porcelainsuperstore.couk

STAND OUT

BURLINGTON

Simplifying the signature elements of Edwardian design and blending them with modern performance, the Contemporary Upstand Basin is a stunning feature for any bathroom. burlingtonbathrooms.com

BRUSH OFF

SURI

The sleekest of toothbrushes, Suri looks good in your bathrooms and gives you the best clean teeth feeling. Accessories include a brilliant magnetic mirror holder, and there are colourways to match your space. trysuri.com

SHELF LIFE

WHERE SAINTS GO

This industrial style brass mirror has a roomy shelf for all essentials and adds a stylish vintage feel to any bathroom. wheresaintsgo.co.uk

IN THE PINK CA PIETRA

Ca Pietra's Deck Chair Porcelain tiles have a playful striped design available in vibrant summer colours. Lay in stripes or in a basket weave pattern on interior and exterior floors and walls. capietra.com

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BUY A NEW HOME AT BERRY CROFT AND LET US TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING!

Our Personal Concierge organising service will assist you in buying your new home, from arranging valuations, arranging and paying for your solicitor and even your removals. Let us take away the stress of moving so you can sit back and relax in the knowledge that your brand new home will be low maintenance, will save you money on your energy bills and is covered with a 10 year NHBC warranty. A

A POOL FOR EVERYONE

There are so many reasons to choose Easy Pools

GREAT DESIGNS AND SPEED OF INSTALLATION

Easy Pool’s huge modular range means that there is a shape and size to suit everyone. Gone are the days when building a pool meant having builders on site for weeks on end, not to mention delays caused by rain. Most pools in the range are completed in a week or two. Compare that to a concrete pool that can take months to complete, during which time your garden looks a mess. Pool sizes range from 4m to 12m with flat or sloped bases. There are currently short lead times as most models are in stock.

SMOOTH FINISH

Leisure Pools fibreglass swimming pools have a smooth, clean gelcoat finish that is non-abrasive.

MAINTENANCE-FREE

The gelcoat finish on a Leisure Pool not only looks great, it is also so easy to look after. The surface is smooth and non-porous so it cleans easily and is very stain resistant.

COLOUR RANGE

Leisure Pools o ers an exclusive range of seven beautiful colours, each with its own sparkle and shimmer finish, ensuring you will be able to find the ideal colour to suit your home and taste.

COMPATIBILITY

Salt chlorinators, chlorine, fresh water systems and ozone systems all work wonderfully well with Leisure Pools fiberglass pools. Whatever your choice may be, it will be compatible.

“The gelcoat finish not only looks great, it is also so easy to look after”

SAFETY FOR CHILDREN AND PETS

Automatic safety covers comply with all EU regulations. Many pool owners have children or grandchildren, or entertain friends with children. When owning a pool where kids will be playing, safety is a major concern. The side of a swimming pool can often be slick and hard to grasp for children. The safety ledge allows children to stand on the ledge and grasp the side of the pool. This can be helpful for children learning to swim, and can provide parents with added peace of mind.

WARRANTY

If you are getting quotes, ask if a lifetime warranty is being provided on the structure of the swimming pool. At best with a concrete pool you will get a seven-year warranty. Do you hope to have a pool for longer than that? The manufacturer is so certain it builds the world’s best composite pool that it o ers a Lifetime Structural Warranty and a Lifetime Structural Osmosis Warranty on all swimming pools.

TRAVEL

A PASSION FOR AUSTRIA

INNSBRUCK

If you're heading to the Tirol to ski, why not stop over in Innsbruck? This beautiful city is often seen as simply a gateway to the mountains but it offers lots to do and see. Read more about this on page 68.

MAGIC

MOUTAIN

Skiing with small children is stress-free at Alpenrose in the Tirol

By CLIO WOOD

What’s the best way to go skiing with your kids? If your answer is “don’t” then I salute your strength of character to resist; if your answer is “there is no best way, it’s always exhausting?” then my friend, I have the hotel for you.

Alpenrose, one of five Familux Resort group hotels, is set in the Austrian Tyrol and it is the answer for a stress-free family winter holiday, and, frankly, at any other time of year too.

We recently visited as a family of four, with our daughters aged nine and two. After only three days, none of us wanted to leave. Alpenrose has everything that each family member could want or need and they do it with joy.

We arrive to an e cient and warm welcome, they know exactly who we are, a glass of fizz for the adults and a personalised water bottle and gummy

bears for the kids. There’s a step at reception so that little ones can see over the desk, and this is just a hint of the thoughtful touches to come.

Elsewhere, I’m usually apologetically asking for highchairs or a microwave, but Alpenrose has everything geared up for families. And I mean everything. Changing mats, nappies, wipes, bibs, colouring pencils at the table, rocking horses and games tables in the bar, kids cutlery and crockery, potties, buggies, baby monitor system, toys in the room, built-in bed guards... You name it (or forget it) and they’ve got it.

The room is huge, with a mini sink in the bathroom perfect for kiddy clean-ups, and the girls are exploring for at least 20 minutes before the usual snack demands. I call that a win. The room is spacious (the kids have their own room within the room) and has the comfiest beds we’ve slept in for a while.

We spend the first afternoon exploring the hotel; it’s worth taking your time over this. As well as a beautifully equipped kids club (from

six weeks to 10 years) there are the two pools (one with slides, naturally), gym, spa, a craft room, teen room, climbing wall, softplay, bouncy castle, basketball court, theatre… not to mention the indoor golf, go-karting and much more besides. In summer there are incredible outdoor playgrounds too.

Venturing outside, the main ski lift is just over the road; and while there’s a baby slope in the hotel itself (perfect for our two-year-old) the nursery slope for lessons is about a 10 minute walk away. Luckily if you’re signed up to ski school (which you can do at the hotel, naturally) they shuttle the kids in hotel minibuses. The ski shop is just next to the lobby too – so there’s no hassle over getting equipment or where to keep it.

And while you still might not get a chance to ski alone with your partner, you’re going to have a better chance here than most places. We only had trouble because our youngest (a nursery old-timer) refused kids club. And that’s ok – it is a family holiday after all.

Mealtimes at Alpenrose are a dream: laden bu ets for breakfast and lunch, with special kids options (sandwiches with smiley faces and a pancake machine the kids were obsessed with) at all times, plus gourmet dinner for parents in the evenings. They even provide bags to take snacks away for your daily adventures and a snack and drinks station is available throughout the day. So as with most ski holidays, you’ll probably leave feeling a touch fuller than when you arrived.

INNSBRUCK IS IN

If you haven’t been to Innsbruck, tag on a night or two there too: this fascinating city is small enough to walk around and charming enough to satisfy

“The main ski lift is just over the road and there’s a baby slope in the hotel itself”

fairytale fantasies. We took advantage of the Innsbruck card which included all our transport and entry to Lumagica and the Hofberg Palace, and if we’d had more time we could have entered any of 22 attractions, including the famous ski jump, the Swarovski museum experience, and cable cars getting you right to the peaks in minutes, one of which was designed by Zaha Hadid. There’s so much more to see – we’ll definitely be back!

THE LOWDOWN

STAY: We had an XL Room which had plenty of space for all of us urban-inn.com/ DO: Innsbruck card innsbruck.info/en/ sightseeing/innsbruck-card.html

STAY & DO: Alpenrose prices start from EU650 per night for a family of four, for their all-inclusive (breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner – 4-course gourmet menu, and non-alcoholic drinks). There is a 7-day kids' club from 8.30am to 9pm – separate for each age group, with agespecific indoor and outdoor programmes; wellness centre with indoor and outdoor pool, kids pool with slides, pirate ship, toddler pool; all other family activities and equipment; gym with cardio and training equipment, fitness studio.

hotelalpenrose.at

JUST FOR YOU

The founder of Boardman Bespoke Travel, Georgina Boardman, on what makes the business di erent and her love of exploring the world

Boardman Bespoke Travel is a personalised travel planning service o ering worldwide destinations curating: family holidays, ski trips, personalised itineraries, safaris and more with handpicked suppliers We sat down with Georgina in her home, to find out where it all started and what sets her apart from larger travel firms. Her fascination with travel really started at a very young age, every summer was spent in the South of Spain, enjoying endless sunny days on the beach, and snorkelling in the sheltered coves around the coastline. She was also lucky enough to enjoy a yearly ski trip and, as soon as she was old enough, she had saved up enough to do a ski season

in the French Alps. This was followed by her first real adventure outside of Europe as she set o travelling the world.

She travelled extensively as a student, exploring the blue mountain villages and Saharan camps of Morocco and taking the train around unventured parts of Eastern Europe. A six-month stint working, living and cycling through Paris was followed by another six months in Buenos Aires, leaving every weekend to venture to new areas. A highlight was getting to the esoteric Welsh villages and awe-inspiring lakes and glaciers in Patagonia, and gazing at the imposing Iguazu falls on the Brazilian/Paraguayan border. These years of exploration inspired her to work in the travel industry, starting her career with a wellknown Tour Operator, creating tailormade holidays all over Europe before adding the Caribbean and Indian Ocean to her expertise.

In 2022 she started a partnership with 360 Private Travel, setting up her own independent travel design agency. Using 15 years' experience in the luxury travel industry and first-hand knowledge of so many locations and hotels to create bespoke journeys for private clients.

She is passionate about sharing what she has seen and experienced with her friends and clients, “travel is one of life's great gifts – discovering the world and keeping on top of all the most exciting hotel, restaurant and exhibition openings is a pure joy for me”.

She works very closely with her clients, getting to know them and capturing their travel dynamic, working out which kind of hotel suits them best and what kind of holidays they prefer to take – be it relaxing at a beach front resort, exploring new destinations and meeting locals, an educational trip to keep the whole family engaged or an active holiday where relaxation comes through amazing scenery and getting back to nature.

She enjoys including authentic experiences, designing one-of-a-kind itineraries using a wide-ranging network of suppliers spanning the globe to enhance your time away. She is a preferred partner of many major hotel brands, meaning she can o er extra perks. As we speak she is working on a city break in Amsterdam with a private guided visit of Anne Frank’s house, a Kenyan Safari, a multi-generational Mallorcan villa holiday and a Christmas ski trip. Not being governed by opening hours, or supplier contracts, her personalised attention o ers exceptional service at every step of your journey, guiding you through every aspect of your adventure from the moment you enquire about your trip to the day you return home.

boardmanbespoketravel.com

EDUCATION

GLOBAL SPIRIT

MARYMOUNT INTERNATIONAL

SCHOOL LONDON

Marymount International School London is the first all-girls’ school in the UK to adopt the International Baccalaureate curriculum, which promotes independent and creative thought among subjects. Marymount is committed to an admissions process that uncovers the unique gifts and talents of every girl who applies.

marymountlondon.com

Three VIEW

There is plenty to shout about at Burgess Hill Girls this month, from talented pupils to sporting stars

From student honours to a sporting festival, via hosting a special assembly, it’s certainly been an interesting month at Burgess Hill Girls. Sixth Form student Lucia Peel has beaten thousands of other students in an essay writing competition to gain a scholarship on one of Immerse Education’s summer courses at Oxford and Cambridge Universities. Immerse Education is an award-winning provider of immersive summer academic programmes for students led by tutors from world-class universities. Each year, thousands of students enter their essay writing competitions with winners and runners-up securing scholarships at one of their summer programmes at Oxford or Cambridge University.

Lucia was a runner-up in the 16-18-yearold category, with her response to the question: “How do nations obtain power and wealth?” Lucia’s essay, which you can read in full on the Burgess Hill Girls website, reached the conclusion that: “In essence, it is clear that nations can obtain wealth through mutually profitable collaborations

LARS FOX, HEAD BURGESS HILL GIRLS, WITH SIXTH FORMERS

or exploitation, with the former likely to empower a disempowered nation and the latter facilitated by existing power and likely to perpetuate the status quo.”

Lucia received excellent feedback from Immerse Education on her work: “Your essay was one that stood out from thousands of entries and our judges were very impressed.”

Burgess Hill Girls Head of Sixth Form, Iain-Regan Smith, is rightly proud of Lucia’s success. “Credit to Lucia for seeking out this opportunity to challenge herself, I am not surprised she succeeded. Every student at Burgess Hill Girls undertakes the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in their first year of Sixth Form, and it is rewarding to see Lucia develop further on her newly learned skills and interests to produce such a highquality essay. Our unique BOLD programme attempts to give Sixth Form students all the skills and qualities they need to hit the ground running when they progress to university, but with this summer programme, Lucia will be even more prepared!”

In addition to this news, on 31 January, Burgess Hill Girls hosted a fun netball festival with teams from St Lawrence Church of England Primary School, Birchwood Grove County Primary School, Ditchling

Church of England Primary School, The Windmills Junior School, St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School, and Albourne Primary School, as part of its strategy to forge closer partnerships with local schools in Sussex.

There were three pools for games between teams and, whilst not competing, players had the chance to practise their skills in the “fun zone”, organised and led by Year 6 pupil sports leaders at Burgess Hill Girls Prep school. Burgess Hill Girls also provided medals for the most improved player in each team, Bee themed prizes for fun zone awards and certificates for all players. Burgess Hill Girls mascot, Queen Bee, put in a special appearance to hand out all the prizes and certificates.

Olivia, who won the most improved player for St Wilfrid’s Catholic Primary School, had a lovely time: “We have had a great day; it is so much fun here! The fun zone was my favourite bit, there were so many activities to choose from.”

Her teacher, Ms Roberts, agreed: “I really loved the way it was competitive yet still really friendly and fun. It was a really nice atmosphere to practise netball, great for the community, and we hope we can come back next year.”

Before this, on 12 January, Dionne Flatman, Head of Economics, Politics and Business at Burgess Hill Girls, led an assembly on Parliament at Southway Junior School. Speaking to the whole school, Dionne explored topics such as democracy, citizenship, and British values in an interactive and engaging presentation.

During the assembly, pupils gained an understanding of the voting system, how laws are made and the function of the Palace of Westminster. Central to the talk was the empowerment of young people and promoting active participation to get their voices heard. In 2023, Dionne took part in the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme at the House of Commons and gained Gold level accreditation. Her assembly on Parliament is part of a wider project by Burgess Hill Girls to develop knowledge exchange activities which enhance the education of young people in Sussex. The independent school is forging partnerships with neighbouring schools, developing a programme of external workshops, visits and events; sharing and connecting sta , facilities and resources.

burgesshillgirls.com

THE SCHOOL HOSTED A NETBALL FESTIVAL LUCIA PEEL

Making the GRADE

John Doy of Mayfield School on the importance of A-level study, both for grades and the many experiences that equip students for life and career

The Education Secretary upset a few people when she told sixth form students disappointed by their results that “they won’t ask you anything about your A-level grades in 10 years’ time”. As a successful (or even not so successful) student it must have been a bit of a kick in the teeth: if A-levels don’t matter, what have the last two years all been about? As a Head of Sixth Form, it’s enough to bring on an existential crisis: if A-levels don’t matter, what am I even for?

As we all know, Sixth Form is about so much more than A-levels. This, of course, doesn’t mean that they are unimportant, or indeed that employers will completely ignore them once you’re in your 30s, but perhaps now is a good time to ask ourselves, what does a good Sixth Form experience really look like?

Well, first, A-levels do matter. All Level 3 qualifications are an essential stepping-stone for students’ next stage of education, training or study. They form the core of the Sixth Form Curriculum and, whisper it, quite a lot of teachers and students quite enjoy them. What truly makes a Sixth Form experience special, however, is the freedom to choose all the other things that complement or provide welcome relief from, your chosen subjects.

At Mayfield, we o er three strands of curriculum enhancement that we think equip students with the rich and varied diet they need to be ‘ready for the needs of the age’, to paraphrase our foundress Cornelia Connelly, a remarkably progressive Victorian nun.

Another of her guiding principles was ‘actions not words’ and it’s this maxim that gives shape to our volunteering programme. All girls in Year 12 are expected to take part in service activities, whether that’s listening to reading in the local primary school, working with our local outreach charity to support the elderly, or supporting the schools that use our school for retreats or confirmation support.

“A-LEVELS FORM THE CORE OF THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM AND, WHISPER IT, TEACHERS AND STUDENTS ENJOY THEM”

We also run an enrichment programme where students can opt to do weekly slots, including culinary skills, film making, leadership, event organising, and farming. These are opportunities to enhance CVs and personal statements, or simply to learn new skills or develop new passions.

Our ECA programme sits alongside these two strands, o ering cricket, football, hockey, netball, tennis, plus more niche clubs like Dungeons & Dragons, or DJing. We have a thriving Medical Society and Dissection Club, as well opportunities to learn coding, build robots and enter the British Science Association CREST Awards.

There are also weekly Life Skills lessons, with activities such as changing a tyre and self-defence, plus weekly sessions called Critical Religion, where students are invited to ponder ethical and philosophical questions through the lens of faith and religion. Throw in the leadership opportunities a orded by our mentoring programme and prefect system and you can see that we are building a picture where perhaps the reason “they won’t ask you about your A-level grades in 10 years’ time” is because you’ll be too busy talking about all the other things you learnt during your time in Sixth Form.

mayfieldgirls.org

MAYFIELD SCHOOL STUDENTS

Home Away

There’s more to a Hurst education than academic excellence. Here, self-expression is positively encouraged.

Children are inspired to explore. Invaluable years in our nurturing, enriching environment in which all children thrive, blossom and grow. Prepared. For life.

Hurstpierpoint College

www.hppc.co.uk

Always a Classic.

Designed to last a lifetime, these minimalist bottles have kept people hydrated and happy for years. Our vacuum-insulated Classic is the solution for both cold and hot beverages on the go. This iconic bottle is proof that reusables never go out of style.

kleankanteen.co.uk

MEET THE EXPERT

DEAN ORGILL

ABSOLUTELY SUSSEX UNCOVERS WHAT INSPIRES DEAN ORGILL, CHIEF EXECUTIVE PARTNER AT MAYO WYNNE BAXTER SOLICITORS

Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors have been looking after the people of Sussex for over 150 years, so you can be confident that you are in good hands with them. They are an award-winning law firm and their reputation has been built on providing exceptional service and they do this by only employing outstanding people.

One such employee is Dean Orgill, their Chief Executive Partner, who is also Executive Board Member – Ampa Legal & Professional Services; Chair Brighton & Hove Economic Partnership; and Chair – South Downs National Park Trust. Absolutely sat down with him to find out a bit more about his career journey and his hopes for 2024.

Q Before working at Mayo Wynne Baxter, what was your working background?

A From studying, into smaller firms and then MWB in 1987 – with lots of farm work, bar work and other interesting jobs along the way.

Q What inspired you to work in law?

A Law attracted me as the optimum challenge. Once in practice I really enjoyed being a lawyer, but my curiosity of how the business side works grew. My involvement in that increased and fortunately I have been able to balance my interest in both over the years – though the scales have now fully tilted to the business side.

Q What do you think makes you di erent?

A I do not think that I have a USP as such, I just do my best at whatever I am doing. My love of learning means that I am always involved in fresh ideas and projects.

Q How was 2023 for you?

A Positively challenging – pushing the business and myself to be the best we can. As I have great people around me it was also successful with double digit growth.

Q Are you introducing anything new for 2024?

A Absolutely. In terms of service o erings,

recruitments, locations and further projects – to be revealed – improving what we o er both to our clients and to our own people.

Q What are your hopes for 2024?

A To stay relevant to the business and the other interests that I have outside work. For my regional strategic economic roles, and the South Downs National Park Trust to build even more solid foundations for the future. In the wider business context with Ampa’s I will be heavily involved in our social mobility and place-making initiatives.

Q Outside of work, what are you looking forward to this year?

A I would love to see principled competence rather than ego as the driving force in politics. I am more optimistic about business stepping up to show real leadership on ethical and social values and on the Nolan Principles, which should be at the core of what we should expect from our leaders.

mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

BERRY ON TOP

Exploring Thakeham’s latest launch in Newick, East Sussex

Carbon-neutral developer Thakeham has launched its latest sustainabilityled development, Berry Croft in Newick, East Sussex. Comprising 39 family homes, 11 of which are designated a ordable and four First Homes – discounted for first time buyers. Berry Croft is delivered as a joint venture with leading social housing provider, Stonewater. Homes at Berry Croft will include energye cient appliances, premium insulation and comfort ventilation, high-e ciency boilers and water-saving taps mean each home will achieve an EPC Rating of B, surpassing 89% of homes in England*. EV chargers are provided to every home and solar panels to most.

area o er extensive outdoor space and foster a close-knit community spirit. Thakeham will be planting fruit trees in every garden to pay homage to the sites’ previous history as a fruit farm.

The development is nestled in the picturesque East Sussex countryside yet enjoys close proximity to amenities in popular Lewes and Brighton. Newick is on the A272, ensuring easy access to the A3, A22, A23 and A24. Haywards Heath station, eight miles away, provides direct services to Gatwick Airport, Brighton and London Victoria in 44 minutes. Regular local bus services connect Berry Croft to neighbouring towns and villages including Haywards Heath, Lewes, and Uckfield.

Danny Rowland, Sales Director at Thakeham, comments: “Berry Croft is a superb illustration of Thakeham’s commitment to community creation and empowering residents to live as sustainably as possible. Buyers will not only be purchasing an environmentally conscious new home, benefiting from lower household bills, but a home within a real community.”

Berry Croft’s homes start from £465,000. To find out more about Berry Croft, call 01825 700660 or visit thakehamhomes.com/berry-croft-newick

Biodiversity net gain across the site will be 29%, almost three times the mandated level; Thakeham’s commitment to enhancing the natural environment includes 50 newly planted trees, 56m of native hedgerow, bird and bat boxes, wildlife gardens with hedgehog holes and highways, and 1438m2 of green spaces comprising ponds, wet meadows and grassland.

Berry Croft o ers a diverse range of beautifully designed house types –architecturally inspired by the Sussex vernacular – that cater to an array of lifestyles. Both contemporary open-plan living and a more traditional layout are on o er; all properties feature a high specification and are stylish yet practical in design.

Every home provides a private rear garden while a central green and play