St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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AT LEAVESDEN STUDIOS, WATFORD THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2011 Auberge du Lac HERTFORDSHIRE’S ONLY MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT CHRISTMAS AT HANBURY MANOR OZ CLARKE AT THE WINE SHOW ANTIQUES WITH JOHN BLY PLUS LOCAL LIFE | HISTORY | EVENTS | BEAUTY | HOME & GARDEN | PROPERTY THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE ISSUE 62 OCTOBER 2011 ST ALBANS LIFE ST ALBANS LIFE WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM www.thelifemagazines.com WITH DESIRABLE AREAS ACROSS BEAUTIFUL HERTFORDSHIRE

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St Albans Life Qulaity Lifestyle Magazine October 2011

Transcript of St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Page 1: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

AT LEAVESDENSTUDIOS, WATFORD

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Auberge du LacHERTFORDSHIRE’S ONLY MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT

CHRISTMAS ATHANBURY MANOR

OZ CLARKE ATTHE WINE SHOW

ANTIQUES WITHJOHN BLY STUDIOS, WATFORD

AT LEAVESDEN

PLUS

L O C A L L I F E | H I S T O R Y | E V E N T S | B E A U T Y | H O M E & G A R D E N | P R O P E R T Y

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PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD,THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

0844 800 8439www.lifemagazines.com

EditorFaye ManningEditor Assistant

Katie MillerSub EditorAlex Lux

Fashion EditorHazel Englander

Education Development ManagerCorinne Sugar

Design & ProductionToni Perry

Account ManagersHelen Chenery, Rachel Goude

SalesJason Trotman, James Marshall

DirectorsRory Smith, Patrick Smith

Executive Chef Phil Thompson and his team have good reason to celebrate after retaining their position in the culinary bible. The Michelin Guide, widely regarded as the most respected source of ranking the world’s most exceptional restaurants, today awarded him a Michelin star for 2012 at Auberge du Lac. We take a closer look at the idyllic lakeside restaurant on the Brocket Hall estate.

Hanbury Manor is a beautiful house with an interesting history. The first house on this site, built around 1730, was called Poles. After passing through several hands, Poles was leased in 1800 to Sampson Hanbury, a key figure in the London brewery Truman, Hanbury & Buxton. We explore the fascinating history.

Warner Bros. is delighted to announce The Making of Harry Potter will open its doors for the very first time to visitors from 31st March 2012. Tickets to the UK’s newest attraction at Leavesden Studios, Watford will go on sale from 13th October 2011. Visitors must pre-book their tickets in advance by selecting specific tour times throughout the day via www.wbstudiotour.co.uk or through approved tour operators.

You can sample four of the world’s most renowned Michelin- starred chefs’ cuisine at the Savoy. Tickets are now on sale for a truly unique and inspirational charity evening of Art and Food, which will be held at the internationally famous Savoy Hotel.

This gives you just a small taste of exciting events and articles featured in this month’s issue, until next month...

FAYE MANNINGEDITOR

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Welcome to our October issue

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DAVONPORTKITCHENS BEDROOMS MEDIA ROOMS

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Elegant creative interior solutions perfectly built around you & your lifestyle. For a copy of our brochure or to arrange for a designer to visit you, please call your local showroom.

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DAVONPORTKITCHENS BEDROOMS MEDIA ROOMS

naturally distinctive kitchens

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Davonport11 St. Johns Street,Colchester, Essex. CO2 7ANt: 01206 760800e: [email protected]: www.davonport.com

Moneyhill Interiors Ltd.1 Money Hill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire. WD3 7BQt: 01923 773906e: [email protected]: www.moneyhillinteriors.com

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BEDROOMS MEDIA ROOMS

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Elegant creative interior solutions perfectly built around you & your lifestyle. For a copy of our brochure or to arrange for a designer to visit you, please call your local showroom.

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october 20 1 1114

You can sample four of the world’s most renowned Michelin-

starred chefs’ cuisine at the Savoy.Tickets are now on sale for a truly unique and inspirational charity evening of Art and Food, which will be held at the internationally-famous Savoy Hotel.

Four of the UK’s greatest chefs: Heston Blumenthal (The Fat Duck & Dinner at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park), Jason Atherton (Pollen Street Social), Brett Graham (The Ledbury) and Lisa Allen (Northcote Manor) will be creating a menu to celebrate 25 years of PAC (formerly Post-Adoption Centre). Among the culinary delights on offer will be Tarleton pigeon wellington with sweet and sour turnip; meat fruit; loin of roe deer on shiraz lees with beetroot & smoked beef marrow and for dessert: peanut butter & jelly sandwich and sheep’s milk jam with blood orange

COMBINING THE BEST OF BRITISH FOOD AND ART TO CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF PAC

MAGNIFICENT GALA DINNER

granita and sangria mousse. Not only will the evening

allow guests to sample amazingly creative food, but there will also be an opportunity to purchase artworks by some of the world’s most coveted artists in an auction conducted by Lord Dalmeny, Deputy Chairman of Sotheby’s.

The artists range from Haroon Mirza - who recently won a ‘Silver Lion’ at Venice Biennale to Ken Howard, Gordon Cheung, Maggi Hambling, James Hart Dyke, James A. Holdsworth, Patrick Hughes, Julian Opie, William Stein, Estelle Thompson and Norman Ackroyd as well as three artists who have first-hand experience of adoption: Russell Young, Claerwen James and Tony Heywood.

The Gourmet evening is the brainchild of Guardian food writer and ‘Great British Menu’ judge, Matthew Fort, who had the support of PAC almost 25 years ago.

He said: “What a prospect - dishes by some of the country’s most creative chefs; works from some of the country’s finest artists - to raise money for a charity that means a great deal to me. It’s going to be a mouth-watering, eye-opening evening!”

There will also be a silent auction, which will include lots such as 1 hour private flower arranging tuition for 2 with Shane Connolly (appointed florist to HRH Prince of Wales); 7 night stay in St. Lucia at Cap Maison; a day at Cheltenham Races for 2; a place on one of the European-guided Art Tours in the 2012 brochure from the Ultimate Travel Company; dinner with Tom Parker Bowles and a signed England football shirt.Tickets cost £250 each For further information on the event and sponsorship packages, please visit www.pac.org.uk/gala/ or call 0207 284 0555 For up-to-date news follow the event on Twitter @IMPACTauction

PAC (formerly Post-Adoption Centre) based in Kentish Town, London has been a pioneer of adoption support services since 1986.Over 25 years, PAC has helped with almost 100,000 requests for help. PAC’s expert counsellors are on hand five days a week to offer support and guidance to anyone affected by adoption, as well as provide consultation with professionals working in the field. In the past year, their Advice Line handled around 1,000 calls from throughout the UK. They have even been contacted from as far away as the Cayman Islands & Australia!

GALA DINNERMONDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

2011, THE SAVOY, LONDON

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october 20 1 1114

You can sample four of the world’s most renowned Michelin-

starred chefs’ cuisine at the Savoy.Tickets are now on sale for a truly unique and inspirational charity evening of Art and Food, which will be held at the internationally-famous Savoy Hotel.

Four of the UK’s greatest chefs: Heston Blumenthal (The Fat Duck & Dinner at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park), Jason Atherton (Pollen Street Social), Brett Graham (The Ledbury) and Lisa Allen (Northcote Manor) will be creating a menu to celebrate 25 years of PAC (formerly Post-Adoption Centre). Among the culinary delights on offer will be Tarleton pigeon wellington with sweet and sour turnip; meat fruit; loin of roe deer on shiraz lees with beetroot & smoked beef marrow and for dessert: peanut butter & jelly sandwich and sheep’s milk jam with blood orange

COMBINING THE BEST OF BRITISH FOOD AND ART TO CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF PAC

MAGNIFICENT GALA DINNER

granita and sangria mousse. Not only will the evening

allow guests to sample amazingly creative food, but there will also be an opportunity to purchase artworks by some of the world’s most coveted artists in an auction conducted by Lord Dalmeny, Deputy Chairman of Sotheby’s.

The artists range from Haroon Mirza - who recently won a ‘Silver Lion’ at Venice Biennale to Ken Howard, Gordon Cheung, Maggi Hambling, James Hart Dyke, James A. Holdsworth, Patrick Hughes, Julian Opie, William Stein, Estelle Thompson and Norman Ackroyd as well as three artists who have first-hand experience of adoption: Russell Young, Claerwen James and Tony Heywood.

The Gourmet evening is the brainchild of Guardian food writer and ‘Great British Menu’ judge, Matthew Fort, who had the support of PAC almost 25 years ago.

He said: “What a prospect - dishes by some of the country’s most creative chefs; works from some of the country’s finest artists - to raise money for a charity that means a great deal to me. It’s going to be a mouth-watering, eye-opening evening!”

There will also be a silent auction, which will include lots such as 1 hour private flower arranging tuition for 2 with Shane Connolly (appointed florist to HRH Prince of Wales); 7 night stay in St. Lucia at Cap Maison; a day at Cheltenham Races for 2; a place on one of the European-guided Art Tours in the 2012 brochure from the Ultimate Travel Company; dinner with Tom Parker Bowles and a signed England football shirt.Tickets cost £250 each For further information on the event and sponsorship packages, please visit www.pac.org.uk/gala/ or call 0207 284 0555 For up-to-date news follow the event on Twitter @IMPACTauction

PAC (formerly Post-Adoption Centre) based in Kentish Town, London has been a pioneer of adoption support services since 1986.Over 25 years, PAC has helped with almost 100,000 requests for help. PAC’s expert counsellors are on hand five days a week to offer support and guidance to anyone affected by adoption, as well as provide consultation with professionals working in the field. In the past year, their Advice Line handled around 1,000 calls from throughout the UK. They have even been contacted from as far away as the Cayman Islands & Australia!

MONDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

2011, THE SAVOY, LONDON

P75-116 London Oct .indd 114 19/10/11 07:27:02

Page 10: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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Auberge du LacHERTFORDSHIRE’S FLAGSHIP RESTAURANT

Hertfordshire’s Only Michelin Star Restaurant for a 4th Consecutive Year

F E A T U R E

“I have a simple taste, only the best.” Oscar Wilde

The new Gran Paradis kitchen

T 01372 274249 E [email protected] W www.santlondon.com

21214 SAnt magazine ad_aw.qxd:280x210 sant ad 26/09/2011 15:05 Page 1

Page 11: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

“I have a simple taste, only the best.” Oscar Wilde

The new Gran Paradis kitchen

T 01372 274249 E [email protected] W www.santlondon.com

21214 SAnt magazine ad_aw.qxd:280x210 sant ad 26/09/2011 15:05 Page 1

Page 12: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

1 2 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

to the string of awards he and the restaurant have already garnered.

Of the Michelin star, Thompson, who started his career at the Lanesborough Hotel in Hyde Park said, “I am proud of everyone at Auberge du Lac and it is a great achievement to retain the Michelin Star for a 4th consecutive year. Every year it is a challenge to deliver the high standards

expected by our customers; I’d like to thank everyone past and present, who has helped me to achieve my dream.” Hearing news of the award, Dieter Klostermann, Chairman of Brocket Hall International says, “We are extremely proud of Phil and his team in retaining the Michelin Star rating. It clearly demonstrates the high level of culinary competence and

xecutive Chef Phil Thompson and

his team have good reason to celebrate

after retaining their position in the culinary bible.

The Michelin Guide, widely regarded as the most respected source of ranking the world’s most exceptional restaurants, today awarded

him a Michelin star for 2012 at Auberge du Lac – the idyllic lakeside restaurant on the Brocket Hall estate - for the fourth consecutive year.

Phil, who has transformed Auberge du Lac into Hertfordshire’s flagship restaurant since taking on the role of Executive Chef in 2005, adds the accolade – the most coveted honour for fine cuisine –

F E A T U R E

Page 13: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

the ability to deliver consistently high standards of cuisine and service to our guests.”

A charming restaurant, Auberge du Lac is housed in the estate’s former hunting lodge, exuding elegance and exclusivity, with starched white tablecloths and attentive silver service. Known as the “foodie´s favourite” both restaurant and chef have received a steady stream of plaudits

since Th ompson took over as Executive Chef in 2005.

Recently described by the Good Food Guide as, “delivering precise contemporary food designed to thrill and satisfy in equal measure,” Th ompson seduces his guests with a heady cocktail of the fi nest gastronomy served in an aristocratic country retreat.

Th at very mix once causing

Hotel Guru Fiona Duncan to comment, “I couldn’t fault our dinner: romantic setting, excellent service.” A fi tting tribute for a fi ne restaurant in unparalleled surroundings.

For more information aboutAuberge du Lac,Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL8 7XG call 01707 368888 or visit the website at www.aubergedulac.co.uk

I am proud of everyone at

Auberge du Lac and it is a great

achievement to retain the

Michelin Star for a 4th consecutive year. Every year it is a challenge to deliver the

high standards expected by our customers... expected by our

‘Complimentary champagne & canapés on arrival for

Private Dining throughout November and December’

3 Course a la Carte Dinner from £60 per guest

Terms and conditions apply.October + November only.

Maximum 2 bottles of Champagne per party.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 1 3

F E A T U R E

Page 14: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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A Hästens bed contains only the fi nest natural and renewable materials, because we believe that luxury and sustainability go hand in hand. That’s why we will give you up to £2,500 credit for your old bed and recycle it.

This is the world of Hästens, quite simply the most luxurious and natural beds in the world.

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Up to £2,500 credit when you exchange your old bed for an all natural handcrafted bed from Hästens

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Page 15: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

LONDON Marshall & Stewart, 579-581 Kings Road, London SW6 2EHLONDON Marshall & Stewart, 99 Crawford Street, London W1H 2HNSURREY Auckland House, New Zealand Avenue, Walton-on-Thames KT12 1PL

A Hästens bed contains only the fi nest natural and renewable materials, because we believe that luxury and sustainability go hand in hand. That’s why we will give you up to £2,500 credit for your old bed and recycle it.

This is the world of Hästens, quite simply the most luxurious and natural beds in the world.

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Page 16: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

ts historic Jacobean-style building set in 200 acres

of parkland offers a truly enchanting venue especially if it is a white Christmas

the scenery is stunning.

Christmas starts early at Hanbury Manor on Wednesday 23rd November 2011 with a Christmas Shopping evening in the Health Club offering some fantastic gift ideas and special promotional spa treatments on the evening to get you sparkling for the season.

The decorations should be up around the hotel and you can admire the tall Christmas trees beautifully decorated and our spectacular Christmas feature for the kids to enjoy. Speaking of kids, our crèche offers a Christmas party for children and many festive activities through December to take them off your hands while you do your Christmas shopping or treat yourself to a spa treatment.

The spa are offering a Festive Spa Day for £99 that includes Use of swimming pool, cardio and weighs gym; two course lunch, use of towels and robes throughout the day and a choice of either a full body massage or a Decleor classic facial.

Moving into December the Hanbury Manor team are going to be hosting a stall at the Ware Dickensian Evening on Friday

commence with a warm welcome on Christmas Eve with the aroma of mulled wine and roast chestnuts, then later enjoy canapés and Carol singing in our beautiful

converted chapel, Poles Hall. Dinner will be included in either Oakes Grill or Zodiac restaurant.

Christmas is finally here so enjoy a breakfast on Christmas morning overlooking the championship golf course prior to our special guest Father Christmas arriving with his reindeers for guests and children to visit in his grotto then a traditional Christmas lunch will be served in Oakes Grill or Zodiac

Restaurant with all the trimmings.

If you choose to stay an extra night for Boxing Day you can take advantage of a relaxing day with a leisurely walk around the grounds or a dip in the Romanesque swimming pool.

E V E N T S

2nd December 2011 with sample Afternoon Teas that will be a great taster to encourage you to come along to indulge in one of our Dickensian Afternoon Tea’s on Sunday 4th, 11th or 18th December with traditional afternoon tea and carol singing.

The parties commence with our Christmas Join In party nights available on 8th, 15th and 22nd December 2011 where you can bring along friends, colleagues and clients to enjoy a three course dinner and disco until midnight for £49.95 per person. We also offer Private Christmas party nights for £58.50 per person.

If you are looking to stay away this Christmas opt for one of our residential packages where you arrive Christmas eve for either two or three nights.Let the magic of Christmas

A MARRIOTT HOTEL AND COUNTRY CLUB IN WARE, HERTFORDSHIRE

1 6 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

And the party isn’t over yet...Welcome in 2012 at Hanbury Manor in one of three choices of events available in either Oakes Grill Restaurant for £105 per person with a four course dinner and disco in dedicated area, Zodiac Restaurant for £145 per person with a five course dinner and live entertainment or Manor House with a live band and dancing for £115 per person for a five course dinner.

When the clock strikes 12, be dazzled by our Firework display to welcome in the New Year.

Terms & Conditions apply on all our events, spa treatments and activties.

For further information on spending your Christmas at Hanbury Manor please contact the Christmas Coordinator on 01920 487 722

Hanbury Manor, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club. Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SDTelephone 01920 487 722www.marriotthanburymanor.co.uk

Escape this Christmas to Hanbury Manor

The parties commence with our Christmas Join In party nights available on 8th, 15th and 22nd

December 2011 where you can bring along friends,

colleagues and clients...

Page 17: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

CHRISTMAS PRIVATE PARTY NIGHTS AT HANBURY MANOR

ENJOY A THREE COURSE DINNER, CRACKERS AND NOVELTIES FOR £58.50 PER PERSON

SPECIAL GIFT ON CONFIRMATION OF YOUR PARTY

Please present this coupon or quote: XmasGift to receive a £10 voucher for each of your guests attending the party to

redeem against any spa treatment at Hanbury Manor.

Alternatively bring your party to our party at our Join in party nights available on Thursday 8th, 15th, 22nd December 2011 Subject to availability. Minimum spend of £35 per treatment. Please note the treatment must be booked before end of January 2012. For further information please contact the Christmas coordinator on: 01920 487 722

Hanbury Manor, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SD Telephone: 01920 487 722; MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

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At Little Chilli we give you delicious homemade rustic CHRISTMAS HAMPERS to suit all budgets. All our products are handmade with attention & care. From delicious mini Christmas fruitcakes to gourmet cranberry sausage rolls. We also cater for Christmas parties Please check our website for further info. We deliver to some areas of North London

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Page 18: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

was pulled down and construction began for the new Poles, which was completed in 1892 designed by Ernest George the celebrated architect who was joined by Harold Peto, son of Sir Morton Peto, the great railway builder.

In 1913 the estate was sold to the King family and with his keen interest in horse racing he immediately went to work

on building stables for his race horses. At this time King also had a private 9 hole golf course laid out in the park under the direction of well known golfer Harry Vardon.

In 1923 it was sold to the Faithful companions of Jesus who turned it into a convert school that initially had six students and by 1928 it gained

1 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

he beautiful historic Hanbury Manor became part of the Marriott group in March 1996 known today as Hanbury Manor, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club.

Its story dates back to the 1800 where the Hanbury name

occupied the house for 113 years where Sampson and Agatha Hanbury came to live at Poles in 1800. In 1847, the Poles estate

was passed onto their nephew, Robert Hanbury who further extended the house and gardens. Being a keen horticulturalist, he employed over twenty gardeners and built the Walled Garden where the greenhouses became famous for their orchards.

Th e Poles estate passed to his grandson Edmund and Amy Hanbury. In 1889, the old house 1800. In 1847, the Poles estate he immediately went to work 1800. In 1847, the Poles estate Hanbury. In 1889, the old house 1800. In 1847, the Poles estate Hanbury. In 1889, the old house

1 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

L O C A L H I S T O R Y

A History of

Hanbury Manor

TRUMAN, HANBURY & BUXTON’S BLACK EAGLE BREWERY IN BRICK LANE 1842

AGATHA HANBURY

SAMPSON HANBURY

Page 19: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

up to fifty students and a new block was added for the expanding school. In this time the hockey field was made into four tennis courts, classrooms, dormitories and a gymnasium was made around the courtyard. A large chapel was erected next to Henry King’s stable block. After sixty three years, Poles convent closed in July 1986.

It was then announced that the new owners had gained planning permission for a hotel and work began in 1988 converting the house of 1890 and the 1930 school block into a hotel.

New furniture, wallpapers, carpets and curtains were all put in place. Artist Tony Raymond painted the beautiful cerulean ceiling in the cocktail bar and

among all the improvements Amy Hanbury’s bedroom, dressing room and bathroom remained almost unchanged. Marble. The chapel, now deconsecrated was converted into the Poles Hall banqueting room.

Architect Nicklaus II re-designed the 18-hole golf course alongside Harry Vardons original 9 hole design. As the building had a grade 2 listing, work was carried out in close conjunction with the English heritage. Hanbury Manor has recently had a refresh with newly decorated banqueting suites and dining areas with vibrant carpets and fresh wallpaper along with elegant furniture, the hotel will continue to offer its heritage in a contemporary yet traditional fashion.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 1 9

L O C A L H I S T O R Y

OLD POLES GARDENFRONT 1889

OLD POLES GARDENFRONT 1870

BILLARD ROOM (NOWCOCKTAIL BAR) 1897

EDMUND HANBURY ATTHE FRONT OF POLES 1891

FIRST 6 PUPILS AT POLES CONVENT SCHOOL 1923

THE SCHOOL CHAPEL,NOW POLES HALL 1985

DRAWING ROOM ATOLD POLES 1889

ROSE GARDEN AT OLD POLES 1884

EDMUNDHANBURY

NEW POLES UNDERCONSTRUCTION 1890.

DINING ROOM (NOWDRAWING ROOM) 1898

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2 0 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

F E A T U R E

the best products, services and leisure facilities in the region.

In terms of the cars on display the range was certainly impressive with Imperials showing Rolls Royce and Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz with their performance AMG range plus the latest models from Chrysler, HR Owen with Ferrari and Maserati, Hilton & Moss with classic cars and Castle Sports Cars with Lotus. With displays both inside and out the attraction and the interest and the whole atmosphere was excellent. With a show that was over twice as big as last year we can’t wait to deliver an even more impressive event in 2012.

For more information about Exclusively and Luxury Home and Leisure Shows visit the website at www.exclusivelyevents.co.uk

t was a stunning weekend for a luxury lifestyle event at the magnifi cent Van

Hage Garden Centre. Early October turned into mid summer which was

complimented perfectly by the pianist on the baby grand piano in the supercar gallery.

Th e Luxury Home & Leisure Show consisted of two large marquees with over 40 exhibitors. In the luxury home and leisure marquee visitors were treated to wide range of home and lifestyle features. Stunning home cinema demonstrations from SMC Control Systems and Steven Th orne Design, golf swing analysis from Bradley Preston Golf, antiques from Bushwood, Jacuzzi’s, contemporary art from Gallery Rouge and the fi nest wood fl oors from William Beard. All exhibitors represented

for a luxury lifestyle event at the magnifi cent Van

Hage Garden Centre. Early October turned into mid summer which was

complimented perfectly by the pianist on the baby grand piano in

LUXURY HOME LEISURE SHOWLUXURY HOME LUXURY HOME LUXURY HOME LUXURY HOME LUXURY HOME LUXURY HOME

EDWARD LEGGE,IAN CUNNINGHAM,

PARRY CHANAHILTON & MOSS

RICHARD ANDREWSEASY CHAIR

AND SOFA CO

CHARLES ADAMSMORLEY STOVES

KULDIP CHOHANGALLERY ROUGE

VINCENZO QUATTROMINIHR OWEN SPORTS CARS

JANE WATKINS AND GEORGE SCHOOLING

GE SWORDERS & SON

WILLIAM BEARD,JOE BISHOPWB FLOORING

PHILIP ZELLEYZELLEYSJEWELLERS

JOANNA WILLIAMSAND COLLEAGUES,JACUZZI UK

Page 21: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Coupé range: urban: 15.6(18.1)-44.8(6.3), extra urban:33.2(8.5)-65.7(4.3), combined: 23.5(12.0)-55.4(5.1). CO2 emissions: 280-133 g/km.Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well.Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY AMG Sport Coupé Edition 125 at £32,715.00 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at £645.00 and panoramic glass sunroof at £1,350.00 (on-the-roadprice includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Based on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement. Example based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileagecharges may apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and retailer deposit contribution. Quotations available on request for alternativecontract lengths and mileages. This finance campaign is available on C-Class AMG Sport Coupé Edition 125 models ordered/credit approved between 1 October and 31 December 2011 and registered by 31 March2012, excluding AMG engines. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other published offer from the retailer and is subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.Prices correct at time of going to press (10/11). Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK7 8ND.

Search over.The C-Class Coupé Edition 125. With contemporary styling, satellite navigationas standard and competitive monthly payments, it’s exactly what you’relooking for.

• Satellite navigation and multimedia system

• AMG sports bodystyling with 18” AMG alloys

• Intelligent Light System that reacts to road conditions

• Front and rear Parktronic parking assistance

• Coupé-specific sports seats

• Monthly payments from £345*

For more information or to book a test drive, contact your local Mercedes-Benz Hertfordshire Retailer.

Mercedes-Benz HertfordshireMercedes-Benz of Bishop’s Stortford Stansted Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2BT01279 930071 www.mercedes-benzofbishopsstortford.co.ukMercedes-Benz of Hertford Foxholes Business Park, John Tate Road, Hertford SG13 7LB01992 239065 www.mercedes-benzofhertford.co.ukMercedes-Benz of Stevenage Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2BT01438 529068 www.mercedes-benzofstevenage.co.uk

Irresistable value from Mercedes-Benz Hertfordshire

Representative example

C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY AMG Sport CoupéEdition 125 with metallic paint

36 Monthly payments (Term of agreement) £345.00*

On-the-road price £31,365.00

Customer deposit £5,975.00

Retailer deposit contribution £1,252.90

Optional purchase payment† £14,825.00

Total amount of credit £24,137.10

Total amount payable†† £34,747.90

Acceptance fee £180.00

Purchase activation fee† £95.00

Representative 5.9% APR

Fixed interest rate 5.25%

C-Class Coupé

CCOU-Q411F-AD-LS 280x210 MA16_Layout 1 17/10/2011 15:49 Page 1

Page 22: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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Page 23: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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TUESDAY 15 NOVEMBER Chinese & Japanese Ceramics, Works of Art & Furniture FINE WINE & PORT MONDAY 28 NOVEMBER

WINTER COUNTRY HOUSE SALE TUESDAY 29 NOVEMBER Furniture, Paintings, Ceramics & Works of Art SILVER & JEWELLERYTUESDAY 6 DECEMBER

To order a complimentary catalogue for any of the Winter Sales please contact George Schooling on 01279 817778 or email [email protected]

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Winter Salesat the Stansted Mountfi tchet Auction Room

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The new GranCabrio SporT by MaSeraTi

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The Maserati GranCabrio Sport is priced at £102,615 on the road, including 3 years/unlimited mileage warranty.

For more information on the Maserati GranCabrio Sport or Maserati events, contact H.R. Owen Sports Cars on 01727 866171.

GranCabrio Sport: Car shown with optional metallic paint at £564, carbon fibre on selected interior trim details at £1,740, anodised matt red brake callipers at £516, Anthracite Grey Astro-design alloy wheels at

£480 and Bose® Surround Sound system at £1,440.

H.R. Owen Sports Cars318 Watford Road, Chiswell Green, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL2 3DP Tel : 01727 866171 www.hrowen.co.uk

4885 Maserati HR Owen Qtr page ad.indd 1 14/10/2011 15:45

Page 24: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

without passing near the Queen Street slum area - where even policemen had to patrol in pairs!

As Hitchin’s commercial life expanded so too did building development. Mr Seebohm’s house was eventually demolished to make way for the shops, offices and apartments that line the north side of Hermitage Road today. Most were built in the 1920s by John Ray Ltd of Letchworth. It was during this project that Mr Ray was approached by local businessman Ralph Nott

who owned the catering company Nott’s Bakers. Nott commissioned John Ray Ltd to build The Hermitage Halls, high quality assembly rooms that included the Hermitage Ballroom. They opened in 1925, not surprisingly with a Grand Ball. Then, in 1932 John Ray built the iconic Hermitage Cinema, just across the road and between them these two enterprises

made Hermitage Road a focal point of entertainment for many years to come.

Apart from becoming the No 1 venue for dances, the ballroom and its annex were quickly snapped up for daytime gatherings as well. The Rotary Club of Hitchin held weekly lunch meetings there and, during

2 4 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

L O C A L L I F E

A HISTORY OFHERMITAGE ROAD

was owned by Frederic Seebohm, a Quaker philanthropist who, in 1874, donated part of his large garden to the community so that a road could be cut to give better access to the new railway station that was bringing fresh prosperity to the town.

It must have been a considerable sacrifice that Seebohm made because the house and gardens were steeped in history and the development involved the destruction of a line of magnificent box trees dating back to the time

of King Edward IV. However, when the new road was opened, a crowd of more than 1,000 gathered to cheer Mr Seebohm for making it all possible. Hermitage Road let a breath of fresh air into the crowded town centre, offering hitherto unseen views of Windmill Hill. It also enabled pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages to reach the railway station

HERTFORDSHIRE’S WRITER, HISTORIAN

AND BROADCASTER RICHARD WHITMORE

RECALLS THE HISTORY OF

HERMITAGE RD, A TRADITIONAL 1930s

BALLROOM IN HIS HOME TOWN OF

HITCHIN, NOW CONVERTED TO

A 21ST CENTURY EATING PLACE.

Mention the two words ‘Hermitage Road’ to those of us who grew

up in Hitchin in the second half of the 20th Century and they will inevitably conjure up memories of the good times - some might even say the best times - of our young lives.

Those were the days when ‘going to The Herm’ meant one of two things. Either, you were off for a night at the movies in the majestic 1,300 seat Hermitage Cinema, or you were across the road at the Hermitage Ballroom, where experiences down the years ranged from the Saturday night hops to the more opulent Dinner-Dances or New Year’s Eve Balls. If you were a sixties swinger you may have ‘done your thing’ to Eric Clapton and The Cream or Shane Fenton (later Alvin Stardust) and The Fentones. You might even have head-banged with Screaming Lord Sutch and the Savages . . .

However, the original Hermitage Road began life in a far more genteel way.

The name comes from ‘The Hermitage,’ an elegant house that graced Hitchin’s main street, Bancroft, in Victorian times. It

The Hermitage Halls, high quality assembly rooms that included the

Hermitage Ballroom opened in 1925, not surprisingly with a Grand Ball...

Page 25: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

L O C A L L I F E

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 2 5

the war, the ballroom was used for receptions to welcome groups of servicemen and evacuees to the area. Th ere are evocative photographs of some of the 400 boys and girls who arrived from Eastbourne with only a few days notice after the Luftwaff e began daily bombing raids on south coast towns. During the hard winter of 1940-41 the youngsters were guests at a special Christmas Dinner and Dance held in their honour.

In the post war years, the Hermitage Ballroom enjoyed a boom period involving some of the biggest names in the music industry. Much of this was due to the arrival of Toni Avern, a lively show-business impresario who managed a number of groups and solo performers. Toni also brought top jazz musicians to Hitchin, including Humphrey Lyttelton, Acker Bilk and Kenny Ball. Th e list of fi gures from the pop world is almost endless - among them Th e Barron

Knights who at one time had a fi nancial stake in the ballroom.

A long-time Hitchin resident for whom ‘Th e Herm’ provided the best of times is Tony Bone. About then he was setting up business as a tailor in Hermitage Road; eager to bring the snappy 50s ‘Italian Style’ to the young men of Hitchin. Tony’s timing couldn’t have been better, for he soon found himself receiving orders from the likes of Billy J Kramer and the Dakotas, Th e Searchers and Th e Barron Knights, all of whom had their performance suits made by him.

In more recent times, after a stint as a nightclub, the Hermitage found itself in need of someone to revive its fortunes with fresh investments and ideas. With new local owners

the Nye family and their creative design team those new ideas are now in place - and pretty breathtaking they are. Th e stripped back New York style ‘warehouse’ setting makes the kitchens very much part of the scene. At the

same time, the best features of the original ballroom have been preserved – the dance fl oor, stage and - most notably - the hugely impressive windows.

A visit to hermitage rd. is a little bit like going into Doctor Who’s Tardis. Th e quite ordinary entrance leads down an ordinary passage to an ordinary staircase (or lift) which takes you up to the fi rst fl oor. Only when you have made this ascent does the real transformation hit you, as you step into the exciting new world of Hitchin’s latest eating experience. Try it, and you will see what I mean.

hermitage rd. is open for lunch, dinner or a drink Wednesdays to Sundays. Call Howard Nye or Ellené Immelman on 01462 433603 if you would like to ‘taste the experience’ or you can always or take a look at the website www.hermitagerd.co.ukAnd, if you have any memories of Hermitage Road do let us know.

The Rotary Club of Hitchin ballroom was used for receptions to welcome groups of servicemen and evacuees to the area...

TONY BONE (MIDDLE) WITH THE SEARCHERS BARRON KNIGHTS

Page 26: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

TO OPEN 31ST MARCH 2012 TICKETS ON SALE FROM 13TH OCTOBER 2011

Warner Bros. is delighted to announce that Warner Bros. Studio

Tour London – Th e Making of Harry Potter will open its doors for the very fi rst time to visitors from 31st March 2012.

Tickets to the UK’s newest attraction will go on sale from 13th October 2011. Visitors must pre-book their tickets in advance by selecting specifi c tour times throughout the day via www.wbstudiotour.co.uk or through approved tour operators. Tickets will not be on sale at the attraction and spaces are limited.

Warner Bros. is also pleased to announce the inclusion of some of the fi lm series’ most iconic sets

within the attraction including the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s offi ce, the Ministry of Magic, Harry Potter’s famous cupboard under the stairs, 4 Privet Drive, Gryffi ndor common room, the boys’ dormitory, the Potion’s classroom, Professor Umbridge’s offi ce, the Weasley kitchen, the Hogwarts bridge and many others still to be announced.

Th e unique walking tour attraction will off er visitors the very fi rst opportunity to journey behind-the-scenes and experience the magic that has gone into creating the most successful fi lm series of all time. Visitors will be able to see fi rsthand the sheer scale and detail of the actual sets, costumes, animatronics, special eff ects and

TO OPEN 31ST MARCH 2012 TICKETS ON SALE FROM 13TH OCTOBER 2011TO OPEN 31ST MARCH 2012 TICKETS ON SALE FROM 13TH OCTOBER 2011

WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR LONDON

2 6 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

F E A T U R E

Page 27: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011
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props used in all eight of the Harry Potter films.

“It was such a magical place to grow up,” says Daniel Radcliffe. “People will be amazed to see the incredible sets that we’ve worked in all these years.”

Rupert Grint adds, “The sets all have tiny little details that you may not always notice in the films but when you actually walk through them, you can see all the work that’s gone into it. It’s really amazing.”

“This is incredible, it’s been a long time coming and I’m very excited.” says Emma Watson.

Josh Berger, President & Managing Director, Warner Bros. UK, adds “For over 10 years the Harry Potter film series highlighted the exceptional creativity and craftsmanship that we have in the British film industry including groundbreaking special effects, incredibly detailed set design and breathtaking makeup and costumes. We are delighted that we can now open the doors to this world to the public at Warner

Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and celebrate the extraordinary talent that goes into making major movies here in the UK.”

“The UK will be the focus of the world with the Olympic Games in 2012 and we are incredibly excited to be launching the UK’s newest attraction at this time,” adds Sarah Roots, Vice President, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. “Visitors are going to be amazed by Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and we look forward to welcoming people from all over the world through our doors from 31st March 2012.”

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter will open 31st March 2012 with timed tickets available from 13th October 2011. Tickets are priced at £28 for adults, £21 for children and £83 for a family of four. Tickets must be booked in advance via a dedicated website www.wbstudiotour.co.uk or through approved tour operators.

2 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

F E A T U R E

For over 10 years the Harry Potter film series highlighted the exceptional creativity and craftsmanship that

we have in the British film industry including groundbreaking special effects,

incredibly detailed set design and breathtaking makeup and costumes...

Page 29: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Set in over 150,000 square feet, the tour will include some of the most recognisable and memorable film sets and props of all time allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves within the world of filmmaking and Harry Potter.

Within the iconic Great Hall visitors will walk on the actual solid York stone floor laid over 11 years ago. They will also marvel at the solid oak and pine house tables which were built for the films and then aged with axes and chains. Over the years, the Hogwarts pupils have taken upon themselves to carve in their own graffiti, which production designer Stuart Craig has encouraged, as this would happen in all schools! Visitors can also enjoy the unique house points bead system which is said to have caused a national shortage of beads when it was first installed in the year 2000.

Beyond the Great Hall, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter continues with a huge selection of the most detailed and largest sets ever produced in the UK. Visitors can gaze closely into Dumbledore’s office and spot the authentic Sword of Gryffindor, Sorting Hat and Hogwarts headmaster portraits which adorn the walls, including one of the sleeping Professor Dumbledore himself.

Visitors will also discover the magic of green screen technology that has been used for the films including the many Quidditch matches. Also on display will be Harry Potter’s Nimbus 2000, Draco Malfoy’s Nimbus 2001 and Harry’s special gift from godfather Sirius Black, the Firebolt.

In addition to the green screen, a number of never-before-seen video pieces featuring interviews with the crew and cast will reveal the many secrets behind the filmmaking process. Visitors will also be able to appreciate the spectacular animatronics and make-up designs within the Creature Effects workshop. The workshop will feature iconic Harry Potter film creatures including Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Aragog, the giant spider, Fawkes the phoenix and the enormous Basilisk head.

The Weasley kitchen will showcase the incredible craftsmanship of the real life special effect props including Molly Weasley’s self-cooking frying pan, knitting needles and chopping boards. And fans can celebrate Hogwarts’ loveable groundskeeper Hagrid by visiting the real Hagrid’s hut, view his famous motorcycle, and take a peek at the secrets of how the larger than life character was created on screen.

The Ministry of Magic will also feature in the Studio Tour, highlighted by the breathtaking Magic is Might statue as seen in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1, designed by Stuart Craig to be reminiscent in style of soviet sculptures from the 1930’s highlighting the dominance of the wizarding world over Muggles.

In addition, visitors will be able to enjoy one of the most famous addresses in the world, 4 Privet Drive, as well as the legendary cupboard under the stairs.

The Gryffindor common room is one of the films’ oldest sets and remains one of the most loved by fans. This iconic set will feature alongside the Gryffindor boys’ dormitory which includes the original beds made for Harry, Ron, Seamus, Neville and Dean for the first film. Over the course of filming, as the cast grew from young boys to teenagers, filmmakers were required to find unique camera angles to hide the fact that the cast had clearly outgrown the beds.

Other Hogwarts sets on show include the dark and mysterious Potion’s classroom, the lair of Professor Snape, and Professor Umbridge’s office resplendent in pink with the incredibly detailed hand painted cat porcelain plates each made especially for the films.

The gateway to the school itself, the Hogwarts bridge, last seen burning to the ground following Neville and the Death Eater’s chase in the final film, will be restored for all to see as will hundreds of props, costumes, animatronics and many other exciting sets which will be unveiled as the opening approaches.

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 2 9

F E A T U R E

Page 30: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011
Page 31: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011
Page 32: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

F E A T U R E

KATE MULLINS STANDS OUT AS THE BLONDE MEMBER OF THE GROUP.KATE MOVED TO HARPENDEN AT THE AGE OF THREE AND ATTENDED

ROUND WOOD JMI, LATER FOLLOWED BY ST GEORGES SCHOOL.

KATE MULLINS STANDS OUT AS THE BLONDE MEMBER OF THE GROUP.

The Puppini Sisters

Hollywood

3 2 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

Page 33: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

charm and refreshingly masterful musicianship. Starting out in 2004 with a dedicated following before they were even signed, Th e Puppini Sisters were at the vanguard of the burgeoning retro burlesque revival.

Th eir second album, 2007’s ‘Th e Rise & Fall Of Ruby Woo’ refi ned their retro-pop styling and asserted their position on the international stage, becoming their second Top 5 album in the US Jazz Charts. With TV appearances and tours worldwide, the band soon developed a large fan base throughout Europe and in North America. Last year saw the release of ‘Christmas With Th e Puppinis’ to coincide with their annual seasonal shows, which have become a highlight of the festive calendar and will again return to the UK this December.

As Stephanie notes, Th e Puppini Sisters’ take on life is that “whenever we have a strong idea, we go for it” - this has extended to all parts of their fabulous career to date and has led to an album that not only spectacularly evokes a bygone era but also distils the Puppini ethos perfectly. Th e Puppini Sisters are the living embodiment of 1940s glamour, and ‘Hollywood’ will take the listener right back to a more alluring time, where stars were stars and dreams are lived.

Th e Puppini Sisters will be on tour this December for their Christmas Special Shows:

TUESDAY 6TH DECEMBER Cardiff Glee Club

WEDNESDAY 7TH DECEMBERBirmingham Town Hall

THURSDAY 8TH DECEMBER Gateshead Th e Sage

SUNDAY 11TH DECEMBER London Union Chapel

MONDAY 12TH DECEMBER Portsmouth Wedgewood Rooms

For more information about Th e Puppini Sisters visit the website at www.thepuppinisisters.com

he glamour and lights of Hollywood’s golden age are

celebrated with Th e Puppini Sisters’ fourth album.

‘Hollywood’ is a gloriously evocative record that pays homage to the music of the

silver screen in Th e Puppini Sisters’ inimitably stylish manner.

Th e Puppini Sisters - real names Stephanie O’Brien, Marcella Puppini and Kate Mullins - have always had a fascination with the idols and history of early Hollywood, but the rearrangements and vivacity the classically-trained performers have brought to the album ensures each classic number is being heard here as if for the very fi rst time. For example, ‘Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend’ - immortalised by Marilyn Monroe in ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ - is musically recast as a sparky, upbeat number but is sung in a minor key to give it a more subversive and sinister nature. Meanwhile the classic, chirpy ‘Good Morning’ becomes a reluctant, stiff -upper-lip wake-up call.

Th at ability to renew and revivify each song, eff ortlessly harmonising vocal lines while staying true to the classic Tinseltown aesthetic, is evident all throughout ‘Hollywood,’ which was recorded in the old-fashioned way by the three ladies all standing round one microphone. Th e album takes in a whole range of dynamics, from the tongue-twisting ‘Moi Je Joue’ and the high-energy upswing of ‘I Got Rhythm’ - written by the Gershwin brothers - to a delicately fragile take on ‘Moon River’ and Frank Sinatra’s ‘September Song.’ On each song, the sweetly charming vocal harmonies of the Puppinis bring to new life songs that have existed in the public consciousness for over half a century.

Introducing this richly arranged set of songs is the title

track, penned by the band themselves. Over a rumbling

double bass and vibrant horns, ‘Hollywood’

could quite easily

fi t into any fi lm from cinema’s Technicolor beginnings. A song about “the pursuit of getting your name in lights”, ‘Hollywood’ is a gateway into the deliriously exciting musical world Th e Puppini Sisters are exploring, yet is quintessentially the sound of the band themselves.

Th e links with the Hollywood dream don’t end with the music, as Th e Puppini Sisters have been feeling the bright lights of attention on them more and more over the past few years. Th e band were personally handpicked by Michael Bublé to appear on two songs on his upcoming Christmas album - including the fi rst single - while they will also perform with him at his upcoming ITV special. Working with Bublé has been a personal highlight of the past year, with Marcella saying “it was

amazing to work with such an incredible artist.” Th e girls have also been fortunate enough to join up with Mad Men designer Janie Bryant as their Creative Director. Janie worked with the band on their photo shoot and video for ‘Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend’, and Kate stated it was “like a dream come true ...

Janie is a joy to be around.I’ve never felt so glam!”

Th e Puppini Sisters have been thrilling audiences with their close harmonies and chic image since before

their Gold-certifi ed debut album, 2006’s ‘Betcha Bottom Dollar.’ After viewing the French fi lm ‘Belleville Rendez-Vous’, Marcella was inspired to form an act with fellow Trinity College students Kate and Stephanie that would marry a timeless sense of style with eff ortless

F E A T U R E

The ability to renew and revivify each song, effortlessly harmonising vocal lines while staying true to the

classic Tinseltown aesthetic, is evident all throughout ‘Hollywood’...

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 3 3

Page 34: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Now in its 6th year, The Luxury Travel Fair is the only

dedicated consumer focused luxury travel event in the UK - the perfect destination for discerning travellers trying to find their next holiday.

In association with Condé Nast Traveller, the fair plays host to over 100 hotels, travel companies and destinations from around the world making sure that visitors will be able to enjoy unique, unusual and unforgettable travel experiences.

This year there are more than 30 new exhibitors taking part for the first time, including the new Kempinski in Bangkok, Ville in Italy with their fantastic range of luxury holiday villas and Wellbeing Holidays, who offer their superb Spa expertise.

Catherine Thake, Show Director, commented: ‘From traditional favourites, like Abercrombie & Kent, The Oxford Ski Company and ITC Classics, as well as memorable tours, like Into Japan, Chile

Tours or Amazon Zenith Cruises to exhilarating travel experiences. Highlights among those are the Oriental Escapes, Viking River Cruises and Okavango Tours and Safaris.’

The extremely popular ‘Meet the Experts Theatre’ will offer a wide range of Celebrity talks; among them journalist Trevor McDonald, travel writer John Gimlette and wine expert Oz Clarke.

Visitors will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the beautifully designed fair, where they can

enjoy drinks in the luxury Lotus Bar and try some of Mosimann’s delicious snacks.

There is a special ticket offer for visitors who would like to visit both The Luxury Travel Fair and Spirit of Christmas at the same time (£18 for a combined ticket, £15 for a single fair ticket).For further information, please visit: www.luxurytravelfair.comFollow the fair on Twitter @LuxTravelFairOlympia Exhibition Centre, Olympia Way. London W14 8UX

Luxury TraveLLersA hot date for all

Fair Hours

✱ Thursday, Friday & Saturday November 3, 4 & 5: 10am - 6pm✱ Sunday, November 6: 10am - 5pm✱ Tuesday 14th June 11am - 9pm

✱ Advance £12.50 / £15✱ Joint with Spirit of Christmas (Advance) £16 ✱ On the door £18✱ Advance (Children) £6.50

✱ Joint with Spirit (Children) £8.50✱ Under 12 free of charge

✱ If you would prefer to book by phone, please call 0871 230 1091

Admission Prices / Tickets

Free your imagination...

Whatever your dream scheme for the perfect garden building, the experienced designers at Crown Pavilions can put it all together to create the ultimate outdoor room.

Bring your ideas to life at

www.crownpavilions.comor call 01491 612820

Full_Page_Consumer.indd 1 26/05/2011 09:47P2-66 london OCT.indd 8 19/10/11 07:23:33

3 4 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

E V E N T S

Visit www.fellows.co.uk/life for a complimentary catalogueFellows Auctioneers | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham | B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131

A 20th century 18k gold keyless wind open face pocket watch by Patek Philippe & Cie. With presentation case. Estimate £1,800 - £2,200

An early 20th century platinum keyless wind open face jump hour pocket watch by Cartier. With fitted case.

Estimate £7,000 - £9,000

Auction of Pocket Watches & AccessoriesMonday 31st October 2011 at 10am

fellows ad-Oct cream.indd 1 10/10/11 13:22:49

Page 35: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Now in its 6th year, The Luxury Travel Fair is the only

dedicated consumer focused luxury travel event in the UK - the perfect destination for discerning travellers trying to find their next holiday.

In association with Condé Nast Traveller, the fair plays host to over 100 hotels, travel companies and destinations from around the world making sure that visitors will be able to enjoy unique, unusual and unforgettable travel experiences.

This year there are more than 30 new exhibitors taking part for the first time, including the new Kempinski in Bangkok, Ville in Italy with their fantastic range of luxury holiday villas and Wellbeing Holidays, who offer their superb Spa expertise.

Catherine Thake, Show Director, commented: ‘From traditional favourites, like Abercrombie & Kent, The Oxford Ski Company and ITC Classics, as well as memorable tours, like Into Japan, Chile

Tours or Amazon Zenith Cruises to exhilarating travel experiences. Highlights among those are the Oriental Escapes, Viking River Cruises and Okavango Tours and Safaris.’

The extremely popular ‘Meet the Experts Theatre’ will offer a wide range of Celebrity talks; among them journalist Trevor McDonald, travel writer John Gimlette and wine expert Oz Clarke.

Visitors will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the beautifully designed fair, where they can

enjoy drinks in the luxury Lotus Bar and try some of Mosimann’s delicious snacks.

There is a special ticket offer for visitors who would like to visit both The Luxury Travel Fair and Spirit of Christmas at the same time (£18 for a combined ticket, £15 for a single fair ticket).For further information, please visit: www.luxurytravelfair.comFollow the fair on Twitter @LuxTravelFairOlympia Exhibition Centre, Olympia Way. London W14 8UX

Luxury TraveLLersA hot date for all

Fair Hours

✱ Thursday, Friday & Saturday November 3, 4 & 5: 10am - 6pm✱ Sunday, November 6: 10am - 5pm✱ Tuesday 14th June 11am - 9pm

✱ Advance £12.50 / £15✱ Joint with Spirit of Christmas (Advance) £16 ✱ On the door £18✱ Advance (Children) £6.50

✱ Joint with Spirit (Children) £8.50✱ Under 12 free of charge

✱ If you would prefer to book by phone, please call 0871 230 1091

Admission Prices / Tickets

Free your imagination...

Whatever your dream scheme for the perfect garden building, the experienced designers at Crown Pavilions can put it all together to create the ultimate outdoor room.

Bring your ideas to life at

www.crownpavilions.comor call 01491 612820

Full_Page_Consumer.indd 1 26/05/2011 09:47P2-66 london OCT.indd 8 19/10/11 07:23:33

Visit www.fellows.co.uk/life for a complimentary catalogueFellows Auctioneers | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham | B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131

A 20th century 18k gold keyless wind open face pocket watch by Patek Philippe & Cie. With presentation case. Estimate £1,800 - £2,200

An early 20th century platinum keyless wind open face jump hour pocket watch by Cartier. With fitted case.

Estimate £7,000 - £9,000

Auction of Pocket Watches & AccessoriesMonday 31st October 2011 at 10am

fellows ad-Oct cream.indd 1 10/10/11 13:22:49

Page 36: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

At it’s new venue for 2011, this year’s show is designed to

provide a truly interactive experience for golfers of all ages with informed expert advice, PGA tuition, Celebrity guests, Driving ranges, Custom fitting, Club testing, Simulators and the latest golf gadgets.

Supported by some of the biggest and best household names in golf, you can test and buy the newest equipment including, Callaway, Taylor Made, Cleveland, Yonex, Wilson and Mizuno via the show retail partner The Internet Golf Store.

In addition, there will be Trick Show displays, competitions, prizes, cars, the latest fashions, retail advice, as well as plenty of fun for golfers who wish to indulge their senses, skills and passion

Damian Benstead, Managing Director of the show added: ‘With the whole golf industry having survived some extraordinary challenges in the past few years, we also see this years show as a great way to shape the future of the sector and attract even move adults and kids to the sport. Also there

THE LONDON

GOLF SHOW

are a lot of golfers close to the west side of London that have not been to one of our shows!’ ‘The changes taking place will reinvigorate an internationally recognised and established brand and provide exhibitors with a dynamic platform to showcase their new products to golfers and media in and around the capital,’ said Benstead.

The Earls Court show will allow visitors to win prizes worth tens of thousands of pounds across the weekend and everyone buying advance tickets to the show will also receive a £50 Your Golf Travel voucher to spend on their next overseas golf holiday.

The London Golf Show also sees a new look website where there is more information on the show, more interactivity, more info on show partners and more offers.

This year will be The Interactive Golf Experience under one roof! www.LondonGolfShow.com for up to the minute show news. Advance Tickets are £12 Adults*, £18 for 2, £48 for 6 (£15 on the door) *Under 14’s go free when accompanied by an Adult Ticket Holder

SHOW11TH-13TH NOVEMBER

2011, EARLS COURT

2896.2428_Fish_mag_outl.indd 1 11/10/2011 16:04P2-66 london OCT.indd 6 19/10/11 07:23:02

3 6 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

E V E N T S

Page 37: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

At it’s new venue for 2011, this year’s show is designed to

provide a truly interactive experience for golfers of all ages with informed expert advice, PGA tuition, Celebrity guests, Driving ranges, Custom fitting, Club testing, Simulators and the latest golf gadgets.

Supported by some of the biggest and best household names in golf, you can test and buy the newest equipment including, Callaway, Taylor Made, Cleveland, Yonex, Wilson and Mizuno via the show retail partner The Internet Golf Store.

In addition, there will be Trick Show displays, competitions, prizes, cars, the latest fashions, retail advice, as well as plenty of fun for golfers who wish to indulge their senses, skills and passion

Damian Benstead, Managing Director of the show added: ‘With the whole golf industry having survived some extraordinary challenges in the past few years, we also see this years show as a great way to shape the future of the sector and attract even move adults and kids to the sport. Also there

THE LONDON

GOLF SHOW

are a lot of golfers close to the west side of London that have not been to one of our shows!’ ‘The changes taking place will reinvigorate an internationally recognised and established brand and provide exhibitors with a dynamic platform to showcase their new products to golfers and media in and around the capital,’ said Benstead.

The Earls Court show will allow visitors to win prizes worth tens of thousands of pounds across the weekend and everyone buying advance tickets to the show will also receive a £50 Your Golf Travel voucher to spend on their next overseas golf holiday.

The London Golf Show also sees a new look website where there is more information on the show, more interactivity, more info on show partners and more offers.

This year will be The Interactive Golf Experience under one roof! www.LondonGolfShow.com for up to the minute show news. Advance Tickets are £12 Adults*, £18 for 2, £48 for 6 (£15 on the door) *Under 14’s go free when accompanied by an Adult Ticket Holder

11TH-13TH NOVEMBER

2011, EARLS COURT

2896.2428_Fish_mag_outl.indd 1 11/10/2011 16:04P2-66 london OCT.indd 6 19/10/11 07:23:02

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

Fun, excitement and challenge: a true love of learning

Junior Open Morning8th November 2011 - 9.15am10th November 2011 - 9.15am

Scholarships and Financial Assistance available from 11+

Independent Day School for Girls from 4-18

Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT e: [email protected] t: 020 8266 2302 www.habsgirls.org.ukRegistered Charity No. 313996

Page 38: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

october 20 1 126

the British Military Tournament, returns for a spectacular new

show raising much-needed funds for three armed forces charities; ABF The Soldier’s Charity in association with The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

The Tournament’s two hour show will tell the 250-year military history of the ‘special relationship’ between the United Kingdom and the United States of America The dazzling arena production will feature re-enactments, death-defying stunts, legendary military ceremonial set pieces, storytelling, music and

state-of-the-art audiovisual. The show includes:✱ 700 troops and over 100 horses✱ The legendary Field Gun Run, featuring two crews from Wellington College battling it out in a dramatic, nail-biting contest✱ The iconic Musical Drive of The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery✱ The White Helmets (Royal Corp of Signals Motorcycle Display Team)✱ Special appearances from the US Army Drill Team and the US Army Europe Band & Chorus✱ The Bands of the Scots, Irish & Welsh Guards, The

The largest and most breathtaking

performanceof Military theatre

in the worldnarrated live by

Anthony Andrews

THE BRITISH MILITARY TOURNAMENT

2ND - 4TH DECEMBER,

EARLS COURT 2011

Band of the Royal Marines (Lympstone), who will have just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan, and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force✱ Skill-at-Arms, featuring the gymnastics display team of the Royal Army Physical Training Corps, trick riding by the Household Cavalry, the Lancers Display Team, the Metropolitan Police Activity Ride and lots more

Each day the exhibition area will host fun activities at the Armed Forces Activity Area, and a shopping area of retail and charity stands will have something on offer for all. The exhibition also provides the opportunity to meet members of the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and to have hands on experience of some of the latest military kit. Doors open two hours prior to performance to allow access to the exhibition area and a variety of concession stands.

The British Military Tournament is the biggest fundraising event in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. This year it will be tri-service, also benefiting The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force charities.Tickets are on sale now. From £29.75 with concessions available for children and wheelchair users.www.britishmilitary tournament.com or: Ticketmaster 0844 248 5026 / Earls Court Box Office 0870 903 9033/ See Tickets 0871 620 7051

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

P2-66 london OCT.indd 26 19/10/11 07:24:57

3 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

E V E N T S

Page 39: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

october 20 1 126

the British Military Tournament, returns for a spectacular new

show raising much-needed funds for three armed forces charities; ABF The Soldier’s Charity in association with The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

The Tournament’s two hour show will tell the 250-year military history of the ‘special relationship’ between the United Kingdom and the United States of America The dazzling arena production will feature re-enactments, death-defying stunts, legendary military ceremonial set pieces, storytelling, music and

state-of-the-art audiovisual. The show includes:✱ 700 troops and over 100 horses✱ The legendary Field Gun Run, featuring two crews from Wellington College battling it out in a dramatic, nail-biting contest✱ The iconic Musical Drive of The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery✱ The White Helmets (Royal Corp of Signals Motorcycle Display Team)✱ Special appearances from the US Army Drill Team and the US Army Europe Band & Chorus✱ The Bands of the Scots, Irish & Welsh Guards, The

The largest and most breathtaking

performanceof Military theatre

in the worldnarrated live by

Anthony Andrews

THE BRITISH MILITARY TOURNAMENT

2ND - 4TH DECEMBER,

EARLS COURT 2011

Band of the Royal Marines (Lympstone), who will have just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan, and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force✱ Skill-at-Arms, featuring the gymnastics display team of the Royal Army Physical Training Corps, trick riding by the Household Cavalry, the Lancers Display Team, the Metropolitan Police Activity Ride and lots more

Each day the exhibition area will host fun activities at the Armed Forces Activity Area, and a shopping area of retail and charity stands will have something on offer for all. The exhibition also provides the opportunity to meet members of the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and to have hands on experience of some of the latest military kit. Doors open two hours prior to performance to allow access to the exhibition area and a variety of concession stands.

The British Military Tournament is the biggest fundraising event in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. This year it will be tri-service, also benefiting The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force charities.Tickets are on sale now. From £29.75 with concessions available for children and wheelchair users.www.britishmilitary tournament.com or: Ticketmaster 0844 248 5026 / Earls Court Box Office 0870 903 9033/ See Tickets 0871 620 7051

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

P2-66 london OCT.indd 26 19/10/11 07:24:57

Haberdashers’ Aske’s School for Girls

Outstanding academic achievement:a true love of learning

Senior Open Morning9th November 2011 - 9.30am11th November 2011 - 9.30am

Scholarships and Financial Assistance available from 11+

Independent Day School for Girls from 4-18

Aldenham Road, Elstree, Herts, WD6 3BT e: [email protected] t: 020 8266 2338 www.habsgirls.org.ukRegistered Charity No. 313996

Page 40: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

L o n d o n E V E n T S

London’s biggest city-wide music festival brings together established

stars and emerging talent, reflecting the traditions of jazz and illustrating its breadth and depth. In a programme made up of premieres, commissions, one-off collaborations, talks, family events, workshops and a fantastic Jazz for Free series, 280 concerts in over 50 venues across the capital.

The line-up of artists is as impressive as ever and takes in a number of landmark anniversaries on the way.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Impulse! Records McCoy Tyner* revisits the classic John Coltrane/Johnny Hartman vocal record with José James and Chris Potter. Other jazz giants associated with the label in the 1960s are also featured - modern jazz drum giant Roy Haynes and firebrand saxophonist Archie Shepp with pianist Joachim Kühn. These artists are joined by Steve Coleman, Bill Frisell, Abdullah Ibrahim, David Sanborn, Martial Solal, Steve Swallow and Henry Threadgill, plus younger stars like Ambrose Akinmusire, Stefano Bollani* and Lionel Loueke.

The Festival explore the riches of jazz history in a variety of ways. In celebration of Louis Armstrong’s 110th birthday, the Festival presents the European premiere of ‘Louis’, a brand new silent movie that re-imagines a young Louis Armstrong as he navigates the colourful intricacies of life in the quintessential jazz city. Wynton Marsalis’s score is played by a hand-picked ensemble of some of the composer’s closest associates, directed by trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, including saxophonist Wes Anderson, and drummer Herlin Riley, contributing a spirited counterpoint to director Dan Pritzker’s stunning Chaplin-inspired movie.

Jazz historian/drummer Richard Pite salutes the 100th birthday of Roy Eldridge. To mark another centenary, broadcaster/double bassist Alyn Shipton toasts Buck

THE LONDON

JAZZ FESTIVAL

Clayton - one of the stalwarts of the Count Basie band - presenting evocative film and audio clips plus performing new arrangements of his music with a stellar band.

The Festival’s legendary opening night is celebrated in style with Jazz Voice*, featuring Ayanna, Gregory Porter, Ian Shaw, Lucinda Belle, Mary Pearce, Norma Winstone and Shingai Shoniwa (The Noisettes), arranged and scored by Guy Barker and accompanied by the London Jazz Festival Orchestra.

Jazz has always had strong global connections and this year there is a chance to see two seminal figures that have made worldwide impact - tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain and Cape Verdean superstar Cesaria Evora, plus two Iranian masters, Kayhan Kalhor and Madjid Khaladj. ECM multi-instrumentalist Stephan Micus, brings his astonishing range of instruments from across the globe for an extremely rare London performance.

European pianists of extreme talent appear throughout the Festival. From the British scene, Mercury Prize-nominee Gwilym Simcock plays multiple gigs across the Festival, Jason Yarde and Andrew McCormack launch their new Edition album Spaces and Other Places, Empirical open for jazz giant Archie Shepp and saxophonist Steve Williamson makes a rare London appearance.

The Festival takes the London club scene by storm, with performances from former EST linchpin Magnus Ostrom and trioVD at The CAMP, Robert Glasper Experiment at XOYO and a fiercely creative meeting between Charles Gayle and Han Bennink at Charlie Wright’s. Colin Vallon brings his cutting-edge Swiss trio to Pizza Express Jazz Club, and Istanbul’s club culture hits Southbank Centre in two late-night sessions with saxophonist/keyboardist and agent provocateur Ilhan Ersahin.For full concert listings please visit the Festival website www.londonjazzfestival.org.uk

THEFriday 11th November -

SuNday 20th November 2011

Clockwise from above: ???; anthony Coleman as young Louis armstrong in LouiS; ???; mcCoy tyner

P2-66 london OCT.indd 12 19/10/11 07:24:22

4 0 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

E V E N T S

&the original

indoor outdoorpool company

Originleisure

Your project.From beginning to end...Building perfect pools for over thirty years.Ring Origin on 01895 823366or email for our brand new [email protected]

Origin A4 Ad.indd 2 03/10/2011 16:52

Page 41: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

L o n d o n E V E n T S

London’s biggest city-wide music festival brings together established

stars and emerging talent, reflecting the traditions of jazz and illustrating its breadth and depth. In a programme made up of premieres, commissions, one-off collaborations, talks, family events, workshops and a fantastic Jazz for Free series, 280 concerts in over 50 venues across the capital.

The line-up of artists is as impressive as ever and takes in a number of landmark anniversaries on the way.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Impulse! Records McCoy Tyner* revisits the classic John Coltrane/Johnny Hartman vocal record with José James and Chris Potter. Other jazz giants associated with the label in the 1960s are also featured - modern jazz drum giant Roy Haynes and firebrand saxophonist Archie Shepp with pianist Joachim Kühn. These artists are joined by Steve Coleman, Bill Frisell, Abdullah Ibrahim, David Sanborn, Martial Solal, Steve Swallow and Henry Threadgill, plus younger stars like Ambrose Akinmusire, Stefano Bollani* and Lionel Loueke.

The Festival explore the riches of jazz history in a variety of ways. In celebration of Louis Armstrong’s 110th birthday, the Festival presents the European premiere of ‘Louis’, a brand new silent movie that re-imagines a young Louis Armstrong as he navigates the colourful intricacies of life in the quintessential jazz city. Wynton Marsalis’s score is played by a hand-picked ensemble of some of the composer’s closest associates, directed by trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, including saxophonist Wes Anderson, and drummer Herlin Riley, contributing a spirited counterpoint to director Dan Pritzker’s stunning Chaplin-inspired movie.

Jazz historian/drummer Richard Pite salutes the 100th birthday of Roy Eldridge. To mark another centenary, broadcaster/double bassist Alyn Shipton toasts Buck

THE LONDON

JAZZ FESTIVAL

Clayton - one of the stalwarts of the Count Basie band - presenting evocative film and audio clips plus performing new arrangements of his music with a stellar band.

The Festival’s legendary opening night is celebrated in style with Jazz Voice*, featuring Ayanna, Gregory Porter, Ian Shaw, Lucinda Belle, Mary Pearce, Norma Winstone and Shingai Shoniwa (The Noisettes), arranged and scored by Guy Barker and accompanied by the London Jazz Festival Orchestra.

Jazz has always had strong global connections and this year there is a chance to see two seminal figures that have made worldwide impact - tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain and Cape Verdean superstar Cesaria Evora, plus two Iranian masters, Kayhan Kalhor and Madjid Khaladj. ECM multi-instrumentalist Stephan Micus, brings his astonishing range of instruments from across the globe for an extremely rare London performance.

European pianists of extreme talent appear throughout the Festival. From the British scene, Mercury Prize-nominee Gwilym Simcock plays multiple gigs across the Festival, Jason Yarde and Andrew McCormack launch their new Edition album Spaces and Other Places, Empirical open for jazz giant Archie Shepp and saxophonist Steve Williamson makes a rare London appearance.

The Festival takes the London club scene by storm, with performances from former EST linchpin Magnus Ostrom and trioVD at The CAMP, Robert Glasper Experiment at XOYO and a fiercely creative meeting between Charles Gayle and Han Bennink at Charlie Wright’s. Colin Vallon brings his cutting-edge Swiss trio to Pizza Express Jazz Club, and Istanbul’s club culture hits Southbank Centre in two late-night sessions with saxophonist/keyboardist and agent provocateur Ilhan Ersahin.For full concert listings please visit the Festival website www.londonjazzfestival.org.uk

Friday 11th November -

SuNday 20th November 2011

Clockwise from above: ???; anthony Coleman as young Louis armstrong in LouiS; ???; mcCoy tyner

P2-66 london OCT.indd 12 19/10/11 07:24:22

&the original

indoor outdoorpool company

Originleisure

Your project.From beginning to end...Building perfect pools for over thirty years.Ring Origin on 01895 823366or email for our brand new [email protected]

Origin A4 Ad.indd 2 03/10/2011 16:52

Page 42: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

HERTFORDSHIRE’S TILE CENTRE

‘Special Products for Quality Homes’

WALL TILES FLOOR TILES

GLASS MOSAICS VICTORIAN TILES

NATURAL STONE TILES HARDWOOD FLOORING

AMTICO VINYL TILES KARNDEAN VINYL TILES UNDERFLOOR HEATING BATHROOM PRODUCTS

WETROOMS

SUPERB SHOWROOM

EXPERT ADVICE LARGE CAR PARK

STOCK TILES AVAILABLE BATHROOM INSTALLATION

TILE FIXING SERVICE

AG CERAMICS LTD Whittle Way, Arlington Business Park

Jct 7 A1M, Stevenage, SG1 2BD tel: 01438 315400

www.agceramics.co.uk

Page 43: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011
Page 44: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Travel the wines of the world all under one roof at

Q&A with Oz ClArkeWhat do you most look forward to about The Wine Show each year?Meeting British Wine drinkers, talking to them, tasting with them and learning from them Do you have any recommendations for what to be drinking this Winter?Chilean and Argentine reds, Beaujolais Touraine Sauvignon from France, Italian Whites and Portuguese Reds You’ve travelled quite extensively ‘ where would you say your most idyllic place in the world is?Wherever I’m headed for, wherever I’ve just left. I love arriving and I hate leaving. We’ve got the Olympics coming to London next year - What wine would you say is the perfect celebration for an Olympic champion and why?English Fizz! A world class performance deserves to celebrate with a world class wine. If you could give a wine novice one tip for drinking wine what would it be?1) Believe in your

own palate2) Let the wine

experts guide you not rule you3) Always drink wine with a smile on your face.

The Wine Show will for the second year, run alongside MasterChef LIVE at London’s Olympia and will showcase

a wide range of fantastic wines from around the world. This follows last year’s successful collaboration between the two events.

The Show offers wine lovers a great opportunity to discover wines from across the globe including:✱ Hungary - London Tokaj, a London based company, will be selling premium wines from Hungary. Launching in the autumn, The Wine Show will offer one of the first chances to experience their wine.✱ Sicilian - a selection of Sicilian wines to taste and buy from Gastro Nicks.✱ France - Chateau Civrac, modern boutique wines from Bordeaux combining the qualities of traditional Bordeaux with the spirit and approachability of the New World. Plus Chateau Les Clos Perdus, a small winery founded by Paul Old and Hugo Stewart, based in the village of Peyriac de Mer in the Languedoc region of the South of France.✱ Uruguay - Wines of Uruguay - Stocking boutique wines from Uruguay that are exclusive to them and hand

crafted from Uruguayan producers. ✱ New Zealand - The New

Zealand Wine Growers’ Association will be bringing a selection of the finest wines from New Zealand.✱ South Africa - Cape Wine Cellars will be showcasing a wide selection of wines from South Africa.

✱ Vini Portugal - Bringing a selection of wines from Portugal. ✱ The English Wine Pavilion - This brand new area in the Show will bring a whole range of fantastic wines and vineyards from England including wines from Suffolk, Staffordshire and Kent.

highlights AlsO inClude: Take a stroll in The Wine Market where

you’ll find boutique wines from small wine producers and retailers.Oz Clarke returns to the

Show on Friday and SundayThe Coutts private wine

cellar returns following popular demand in 2010The Drinks Theatre, sponsored

by Liebherr, offers an intimate wine tasting experience. Places are now available to book.

Bursting with delicious flavours, demonstrations and your favourite celebrity chefs, MasterChef liVe is an experience you won’t want to miss.with so many exciting features to see, from the Producers’ Village and the restaurant experience, to John torode and gregg wallace at the MasterChef liVe Challengeto book please visit www.wineshow.co.uk or call 0844 581 1365

shOw OPening tiMes:9am - 6pm (wed to sun)

tiCketsFri & sun Advancesaturday AdvanceFri & sun On the doorsaturday On the doorgeneral AdmissionPrices start from £20.50

Please note:A booking fee of £1.75 per person applies on advance tickets, over 65’s get £2 off the adult ticket price

ChildrenChildren are unable to attend on Friday (apart from 0-5). A discounted child price operates during the weekend.

grOuPs BOOking inFOrMAtiOnContact our dedicated groups hotline on 0800 358 0058 or email: [email protected]

Q A The Wine Show

Free entry to MasterChef LIVE

P2-66 london OCT.indd 10 19/10/11 07:23:53

4 4 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

E V E N T S

Page 45: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

High Street Waltham Cross . 01992 63 64 65 . www.fishpools.co.uk

Our solid oiled oak Mammoth range is available in bespoke sizesJust one of over 150 dining styles in our range

Visit our website to see all our ranges

Fishpools has grown over the last 112 years and today weare the largest quality furniture store in the south east. Our60,000 square feet showrooms feature over 200 room setsfrom classic to contemporary, minimal to vintage and rusticto romantic all designed to help you make your homeunique. There are over 200 sofa collections, 120 diningranges, 100’s of beds, 75 bedroom ranges, and a largecarpets & rugs department. Choose from a wide range oflinens, softs, pictures and mirrors plus cookware and giftsfrom our Home Accessories department.

If it’s big name brands you’re after, we stock Stressless,Ercol, Natuzzi, G Plan, Duresta, Collins & Hayes, Nolte,Vi Spring, Tempur and many more.As a family-run retailer our commitment to great servicebegins as soon as you enter the store to be greeted by ourwell trained, knowledgeable people, who will assist you onall aspects of your purchase until it is safely delivered toyour home. So pop in, we have ample customer parking,an in-store coffee shop and we look forward to makingyour acquaintance.

TEMP Harpenden Life 210x280:Mercury Full Page 25/8/11 09:09 Page 3

Travel the wines of the world all under one roof at

Q&A with Oz ClArkeWhat do you most look forward to about The Wine Show each year?Meeting British Wine drinkers, talking to them, tasting with them and learning from them Do you have any recommendations for what to be drinking this Winter?Chilean and Argentine reds, Beaujolais Touraine Sauvignon from France, Italian Whites and Portuguese Reds You’ve travelled quite extensively ‘ where would you say your most idyllic place in the world is?Wherever I’m headed for, wherever I’ve just left. I love arriving and I hate leaving. We’ve got the Olympics coming to London next year - What wine would you say is the perfect celebration for an Olympic champion and why?English Fizz! A world class performance deserves to celebrate with a world class wine. If you could give a wine novice one tip for drinking wine what would it be?1) Believe in your

own palate2) Let the wine

experts guide you not rule you3) Always drink wine with a smile on your face.

The Wine Show will for the second year, run alongside MasterChef LIVE at London’s Olympia and will showcase

a wide range of fantastic wines from around the world. This follows last year’s successful collaboration between the two events.

The Show offers wine lovers a great opportunity to discover wines from across the globe including:✱ Hungary - London Tokaj, a London based company, will be selling premium wines from Hungary. Launching in the autumn, The Wine Show will offer one of the first chances to experience their wine.✱ Sicilian - a selection of Sicilian wines to taste and buy from Gastro Nicks.✱ France - Chateau Civrac, modern boutique wines from Bordeaux combining the qualities of traditional Bordeaux with the spirit and approachability of the New World. Plus Chateau Les Clos Perdus, a small winery founded by Paul Old and Hugo Stewart, based in the village of Peyriac de Mer in the Languedoc region of the South of France.✱ Uruguay - Wines of Uruguay - Stocking boutique wines from Uruguay that are exclusive to them and hand

crafted from Uruguayan producers. ✱ New Zealand - The New

Zealand Wine Growers’ Association will be bringing a selection of the finest wines from New Zealand.✱ South Africa - Cape Wine Cellars will be showcasing a wide selection of wines from South Africa.

✱ Vini Portugal - Bringing a selection of wines from Portugal. ✱ The English Wine Pavilion - This brand new area in the Show will bring a whole range of fantastic wines and vineyards from England including wines from Suffolk, Staffordshire and Kent.

highlights AlsO inClude: Take a stroll in The Wine Market where

you’ll find boutique wines from small wine producers and retailers.Oz Clarke returns to the

Show on Friday and SundayThe Coutts private wine

cellar returns following popular demand in 2010The Drinks Theatre, sponsored

by Liebherr, offers an intimate wine tasting experience. Places are now available to book.

Bursting with delicious flavours, demonstrations and your favourite celebrity chefs, MasterChef liVe is an experience you won’t want to miss.with so many exciting features to see, from the Producers’ Village and the restaurant experience, to John torode and gregg wallace at the MasterChef liVe Challengeto book please visit www.wineshow.co.uk or call 0844 581 1365

shOw OPening tiMes:9am - 6pm (wed to sun)

tiCketsFri & sun Advancesaturday AdvanceFri & sun On the doorsaturday On the doorgeneral AdmissionPrices start from £20.50

Please note:A booking fee of £1.75 per person applies on advance tickets, over 65’s get £2 off the adult ticket price

ChildrenChildren are unable to attend on Friday (apart from 0-5). A discounted child price operates during the weekend.

grOuPs BOOking inFOrMAtiOnContact our dedicated groups hotline on 0800 358 0058 or email: [email protected]

Q A The Wine Show

Free entry to MasterChef LIVE

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londonfashion week

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A world of celebrities And fAmous people, beAutiful And expensive clothes And generAl fAshion glitz.

The vibrant and internationally renowned London Fashion Week is always exciting and inspirational, and last

month’s event proved to be just that.London Fashion Week presented

another unrivalled opportunity for both established designers and newcomers to present their latest collections. A constantly buzzing key event for those who haven’t got the patience to wait until the latest fashion designs and stylish fashion trends make it into the fashion magazines.

The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the fashion designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections but the media excitement that accompanies them. The allure of the show is exceptional and London Fashion Week continues to be the top fashion event pulling visitors from every corner of the globe.

It’s a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends for clothing. The world watches as fashion history is made.

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mediums, including Painting,Drawing, Ceramics, Jewellery,Sculpture, Collage, glass andphotography. Please call in andview the art on display, all work isavailable to buy.Open Daily Tuesday to Saturday10 am till 6pm Admission [email protected] formore information or call 0750777 4017. Emerald Gallery, 1Blay’s House, Churchfield Road,Chalfont St Peter, BucksBuckinghamshire SL9 9EWToday to Sat 17 Sep, Tue 20 Septo Sat 24 Sep, Tue 27 Sep to Sat 1Oct.www.emeraldframes.com

LEARN BRIDGE AT THEBRIDGE SCHOOL INGERRARDS CROSSThe Bridge School in GerrardsCross (at the Memorial Centre)is now taking bookings for thenew Beginning Bridge classwhich starts on Friday morningsfrom September 30th. Bridge isgreat fun, keeps the mind activeand is a great way to meet newfriends. Have a look at the website.www.bridgewebs.com/schoolgerrardscross or [email protected] TessTempleton 01753 88500410:00 - 12 noon or 7:30 - 9:30pm - £85 per term of 10 weeksThe Memorial Centre, EastCommon, Gerrards CrossBuckinghamshire SL9 7ADFriday 30 September

COLNE VALLEY FOODFESTIVALCome and sample the localproduce the Colne Valley, thegreen lung on the western edgeof London. Loads of stalls sellingfresh veg, fruit, beer, meat, cheese,cakes, jams and preserves and lotsmore. Face painting, bush craftdemonstrations, activities in theteepee, make a blackberrycrumble, quizes, live music, woodturning and basket making tokeep the family entertained.12- 4pm Parking £2.50 downOld Mill Road, Denham, UB95AR. Denham Country Park,Denham Court Drive, DenhamMiddlesex UB9 5ARSunday 25 Septemberwww.colnevalleypark.org.uk

AUTUMN FAIRStart your shopping forChristmas early at the Autumn

Fair at Micklefield Hall, atSarratt, near Rickmansworth andraise funds for the NationalSociety for the Prevention ofCruelty to Children (NSPCC).The Autumn fair takes place onWednesday 5 October and therewill be a wide variety of stallsselling goods from gifts andnovelties to food, flowers andclothing, and a raffle, offeringsomething for everyone. SallyPhipps, NSPCC communityfundraising manager forHertfordshire said: “We hopethat local people will come alongand support the Autumn fair,with 30 stalls selling a range oflovely products from fashionaccessories to Christmas gifts.Why not make a day of it andenjoy some lunch or tea and cake?”For more information contactSally Phipps on 01908 328060.Entry to the Autum fair is £4 andis open from 10am-4pm.Micklefield Hall, Sarratt Road,Sarratt, near Rickmansworth,Hertfordshire WD3 6AQHertfordshire WD3 6AQWednesday 5 October

ROSEMARY CONLEY DIET & FITNESS-SLIM & AEROBICS CLASSESA friendly atmosphere, the dietworks and the exercises are fun–it’s an enjoyable, sociable way tolose weight, alongside otherpeople who appreciate how youfeel. The Amazing Inch LossPlan consists of 3 phases withinterchangeable menus: PHASE1: 14-Day Fast Track. PHASE 2:14-Day 1400 PHASE 3:Personal Inch Loss Plan. Time: 5.30-6.50pm Fee: Classescost just £6.00 & there’s aone-off joining fee of £10.00 foryour membership & diet pack(diet books, motivational DVD,portion pots & tape measure). Orpay £36.00 for six consecutiveweeks or join the Premier Club& receive the membership &diet pack for FREE! If you wishto take part in an additionalexercise class in the same weekthe fee is reduced to £5.00 forthat session.Russell School, Brushwood Drive,Chorleywood Hertfordshire WD35RR. Thursday 15 September,Thu 22 Sep, Thu 29 Sep, Thu 6Oct, Thu 13 Oct, Thu 20 Oct, Thu27 Oct, Thu 3 Nov.www.rosemaryconley.com

The Tanyard, Tring Road, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6NDt: 01296 625488 e: [email protected]

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While we are all thinking about our autumn wardrobes and digging out our winter jumpers in an attempt to stay warm, designers were showcasing next year’s spring/summer collections during this month’s London Fashion Week.

So what we will be wearing next Spring & Summer? Here are just a selection of those names that hit the catwalk!

Over 1500 guests attended the Burberry Prorsum Spring Summer 2012 Womenswear show in London’s Hyde Park.

Pippa Middleton, Kanye West, Samantha Cameron, Sienna Miller, Paul Weller were among the well-groomed crowd of celebrities packing London Fashion Week’s glossiest event to catch a glimpse of Burberry’s spring/summer 2012 collection.

Burberry Prorsum’s design chief Christopher Bailey wowed the star-studded crowd with dozens of variations on the luxury brand’s signature trench coat.Bailey, who has been at the helm of the historic British brand’s designs for a decade, has been credited with revitalising it and lifting its revenues.For the spring and summer 2012 season, he showed off a commercially-savvy collection that ensured the clothes suited all tastes.

Neutrals were ditched for rich autumnal hues which dominated alongside colourful abstract prints - and raffia was prominently used on tops, coats, belts and bags.Bailey said he wanted to celebrate traditional craftsmanship that is being forgotten and to juxtapose that with the digital technology that the brand is embracing.

As for its digital innovations, the fashion house showed its Twitter fans each model’s look before they hit the catwalk. It also opted to stream the event in HD from both its own website and Facebook page.

Clarity and optimism radiate from the SS12 Aquascutum collection, exploring the contrasting forms created by structure and drape, bringing a fresh sense of femininity and a glamorous sensuality to Aquascutum’s signature outer wear and tailoring. Aquascutum’s rich British heritage continues through the use of innovative technical fabrics, featuring an exclusively commissioned, laminated,British tweed and a playful exploration of coating silk georgette with a waterproof gloss finish. Outerwear is made graphic with strips of bonded canvas and plastic trim.

Luxurious and wearable accessories echo the palette and texture of the collection. Chic shoes combine attitude with supreme comfort and we introduce a

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unique new style, both slipper and loafer - welcome to the Aquascutum ‘Sloafer’.

Contemporary ClassiCs for the modern woman.Aquascutum was founded in 1851 by high quality tailor John Emary with the mission to provide stylish protection from the unpredictable British weather. The name Aquascutum originates from the two Latin words ‘aqua’ (water) and ‘scutum’ (shield).

Aquascutum has been part of London city life for nearly 160 years.

As always the front row of Jasper’s catwalk show was packed with members of the fashion press and his family and friends who turned out in force for a look at what Jasper has in store for next season.

Jasper’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection is lithe, sporty and feminine. Pitched from the shoulder, unrestricted yet precise. Innovation in construction and detail with wraps, straps, ties and the cleanest approach to cut. In summer wool, cotton piqué, polished cotton, crepes and silk the palette resides in black, white, silvered-grey and saturated geranium tones. Simple and controlled.

Precision resin is layered in graphic shapes for boxy clutches, shoulder bags and components in clear, milk, and translucent black and red tones. Pattern is formed in weightless silk tulle and georgette.

Pared down and unaffected in a monastic black silk crepe tux. The back is bared in floor length dresses - singular in their bold purity.

A distinctive air of ease highlights the disciplined lack of grandeur.

The flagship store at 36 Sackville Street occupies one of London’s finest postcodes in the heart of Mayfair. It is just a stone’s throw from Fortnum and Mason, the Royal Academy of Arts and Saville Row. Jasper Conran blends contemporary with tradition, showcasing his bespoke womenswear, made-to-measure menswear, bridal, living and dining collections here.

Next Summer’s spirits are high and heady with a relaxed, carefree collection that embraces Paul Smith’s modern, masculine aesthetic for women.

Light-as-a-feather fabrics in deconstructed shapes are soft and airy giving layered pieces a cool simplicity.

Mannish, tailored pieces in smooth fabrics are sleek and fitted; an off-white double breasted suit is elegant and sophisticated worn open at the neck. Silk handkerchief checks are flattering in oversize proportions; shirts are tucked into slim trousers or drawstring pants worn low on the waist.

Laced-trimmed georgette dresses add a touch of femininity, casually

wrapping around the waist to create a sensual silhouette.

Pretty, soft-washed powder tones of blush, lavender and mauve sit next to a more masculine range of chambray blues and steely greys whilst vibrant shots of bright buttercup, jade and bordeaux bring optimistic block colour highlights to the palette. Hazy florals add depth, their petals inked with dark tones.

For Spring/Summer 2012, Jaeger London is inspired by the glamour of the late 60s /early 70s jet set and their hideaways in far-flung, exotic destinations.

This season sees the Jaeger London woman landing on the isle of Mustique, the exclusive playground of British rock stars and royalty. Imagine the back of a villa open onto the ocean, the billowing curtains blowing gently in the sea breeze.

Her wardrobe epitomises the laid-back elegance of the island, blended with British colonial references, rich colours and textures and inspired by Jaeger’s iconic early 1970s advertising campaigns shot against backdrops of famous locations.

Since 2005, Jaeger has focused on UK brand expansion, including its return to Harrods and Selfridges (the brand became the first retailer to operate independently within Selfridges in the 1930s). Jaeger has 45 premium UK freestanding stores, including the Jaeger London branded stores in prime London locations, and significant shop-in-shop presence in Harrods, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, Fenwick, House of Fraser and John Lewis.

The trend for 70s fashion continued at House of Holland where their spring/summer 2012 collection had a pastel punk edge.

Inspirations were Skins and Punks, SKA revival and South Beach & Miami palette. Highlights included Oversized mobre leopard, lurex string knits, laser-cut fishnet leather, hand painted python belts and cuffs and Reworked House of Holland signature tartan.

House of Holland’s collection is nothing shy of colour with mint, lilac, apricot and French Navy being featured - the clothes were fun and, as always, Henry isn’t taking fashion too seriously.

Drawing inspiration from notions as diverse as mythical warriors, fishing on the Amazon, his ongoing fascination with the black lit paintings of Pierre Soulages, and the languid tones of Hank Williams. The Spring/Summer 2012 collection continues

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my friends, celebrities and everyone interested in saving our beautiful world to join me. Think about getting involved.

Find out more about playing your part at www.coolearth.org.

Remember: No Rainforest, No Planet. We have less than 10 years to keep what is left!

Inspired by tribal body paint and the work of contemporary artist Kim Joon, David Koma’s Spring/Summer 2012 collection focuses on the body as a canvas.

Kim Joon decorates intertwining bodies with fluid painting; David re-interprets this concept by using devore to act as a delicate second skin that conceals yet reveals the female form.

Imitating the masterful artistry of Polynesian tribal tattoos, combinations of devore prints from small and intricate to large, abstract blocks reference the ‘Pe’a’, the traditional male tattoo covering the body from the waist to the knees. The bold ‘Pe’a’ symbolizes men respected for courage; David similarly designs for a strong and powerful female muse.

The African zulu skirt and Dinka men’s corset are interpreted as handcrafted leather belts with fringing and pleats, that enclose a tailored and body conscious silhouette in light wools and silks. Combining the traditional Scottish kilt with tribal layering creates feminine, high waisted skirts with pleated panel effects.

This season sees a continuation of David Koma’s third collaboration with Alain Quilici who has designed exclusive footwear for the collection.

The Maria Grachvogel Spring/Summer 2012 collection is a feast of colour, print and texture. The palette is vibrant and fresh with bold shots of raspberry, apple and pristine white that sit alongside languid tones of blossom, clay and ash. Signature Maria Grachvogel pieces such as the beautifully cut magic trousers are given an innovative twist this season with the introduction of a skinny leg pant with a cool ankle drape and a wrap palazzo with a wide, fluid leg. Maria’s iconic catsuit appears in fresh white crepe, blossom and snake print wool.

This season sees the launch of Atalanta Weller for Maria Grachvogel; an exclusive footwear line and design collaboration featuring a statement, cut-away shoe boot in snakeskin, ash and blossom suede, and a sculpted spiked court.

Maria Grachvogel also celebrates the opening of her new London flagship store at 18 Culford Gardens, SW3. The store has been designed by Russell Sage, the designer behind the interiors at the Savoy Grill, the restaurant at Claridges, the Zetter Townhouse and Stapleford Park.

John Rocha’s exploration of textures and structures and the stories they can tell.

Blurring the senses between fragile and bold, wild and gentle, there is a certain duality in the collection, John creates an atmosphere of tough romanticism, his women appearing at once fierce and serene.

John’s palette is, as ever, simply beautiful - essentially monochrome - black in all its depths, honey and soft gold, rose and broken white.

Tints and hues are realised in fluid silk georgette, crepes and linen, crisp in silk organza, cottons, and

extraordinary surfaces. The modern silhouette is

sculpted in structured volume, surfaces densely worked in patchwork crochets, leathers and hand tucked raffia, or slender draping the body in softly pleated asymmetry, easy tailoring and elongated skirts and trousers

John’s Spring Summer 2012 collection is informed by his enduring love of structure, texture and form, and his particular view of strength and tenderness.

ViVienne westwood red label spring - summer 2012Cool Earth has a plan to save the Rainforest.If we don’t save the Rainforest- Forget it!First we saved the Rainforest.

Will they ever know we saved the planet?Most of you know that I’ve always used

my fashion shows as a platform for my belief in the importance of social justice and the urgent need to fight climate change. I introduce the Rainforest charity, Cool Earth, and a campaign that is very close to my heart - a plan to save the most vulnerable Rainforest areas by 2020.

We must begin today - tomorrow is too late. Governments have been talking about saving the Rainforest for 40 years. Now, only half of it is left. Since launching in 2007, Cool Earth has worked with indigenous Rainforest people to protect 2.5 million acres in the Western Amazon and block the advance of illegal logging- the first stage in most Rainforest destruction. We plan to extend this effective community-lead model along the most critical arcs of deforestation in the Amazon, the Congo Basin and Borneo- the groundwork has already been laid. We need your help to continue.

I am personally supporting Cool Earth and investing in our future. This show marked the start of our fundraising campaign for Cool Earth- we will have the official launch in November. I’m inviting

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Maria on the store: ‘This is such a wonderful and unique space that is absolutely perfect for us. I fell in love with it instantly after a long search for the right ‘home’. My vision was to create an intimate space that would not only inspire me creatively but would provide a retreat for everyone who comes to visit us”

menswear day - spring/summer 2012It isn’t so different from the women’s shows - there’s the clothes, the models, the celebrities - but it is more relaxed.

London Fashion Week was brought to a stylish close as the men took to the catwalk for spring/summer 2012. The main attractions covered Mexican influences, dapper suits, and exotic and paisley prints.

This season, the Topman boy would not look out of place leaving a smoking Parisian jazz club during the early hours of the early 1950s. Time travel decadence aside, there were silk paisley shirts, tweed suits, lurex fisherman jumpers and fake fur. It went down a treat. Topman delivered a fine show and the very heart of menswear day. SPG, that’s Sir Philip Green, not Sarah Jessica Parker - the billionaire was THE VIP at the Topman show.

Christopher Shannon showed us that tassels could bring a whole new lease of life to the humble shirt, while James Small drew quite s celebrity crowd - including Kate Moss and Jamie Hince - to see his floral shirts and shorts and Oliver Spencer made coral the colour of the season.

“Menswear fashion in London is alive and kicking and I’m always proud to wear British designers,” said actor Luke Evans, also seen at Pringle of Scotland earlier in the week, too. “Very interesting to see Alistair Carr’s new vision. His designs are strong and fresh. This has been my first London Fashion Week and it was great to have the opportunity to see two very British designers and their work,” he told us.

Fashion Week is one of the highest profile fashion events in the world and one of the ‘big four’ international catwalk influencers. The event is organised by the British Fashion Council (BFC) and funded by a number of sponsors (including Canon Europe current headline sponsor for seven consecutive seasons). London Fashion Week puts London and British Fashion firmly on the global stage, generating orders in the region of £100m; the event itself contributes £20 million to the London economy in terms of direct spend and attracts visitors from over 25 countries including US, France, Italy, Russia, Middle East, China and UAE.

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Dr Ariel Haus, an expert in anti-ageing is inviting patients who want instant results for a fresher look to opt for Restylane Vital in restoring skin vitality whilst combating the signs of ageing. Treatments are available now at Dr Haus’ Harley Street clinic and all treatments result in skin looking and feeling both smoother and more toned.

Creams and moisturisers simply cannot combat signs of ageing or nurture the skin in the same way that Restylane Vital does. Promoting the production of healthy skin by balancing the nutritional environment of the skin at cellular level by attracting and releasing water when needed, Restylane Vital boosts skin elasticity leaving it looking smoother. Skin condition is evidently improved and the lustre restored. Examples include prominent veins and sun damage on say the backs of hands; Restylane Vital combats the combined effects of ageing eliminating the visible damage.

As with all of Dr Haus’ treatments- Restylane Vital is clinically proven and used by him in a safe environment. A recent clinical study in Germany demonstrated that Restylane Vital improves skin elasticity and decreases skin surface roughness. The results are smoother, firmer, toned, healthy looking skin with an overall revitalised appearance.

The procedure is simple, pain free and quick. Targeting a broad range of areas from face, neck, hands and the area between the neck and breasts, it replenishes the Hyaluronic acid lost through

ageing. The skin is hydrated and the elasticity and tone are improved. A very small amount of Restylane Vital is injected into the deep dermis about 1cm apart. Once injected it flows smoothly and is distributed evenly in the skin. Lasting a period of months the

Hyaluronic acid is completely broken down within the skin. Depending on age repeat sessions are recommended every four to six months.

With a proven track record spanning over 12 years and over 10 million treatments worldwide, Restylane is a

DR. ARIEL HAUS

Repair Tired Looking Skin with Dr Ariel Haus For Toned, Firm, Smooth Skin and a Younger Look

Dr haus has regular columns in uK magazines and is often consulted by manufacturers of leading skin products and brands to offer insight and his opinion owing to his extensive experience.

london’s Most talked about brazilian Doctor

safe market leader in anti-ageing which is entirely non-animal derived.

Dr Haus has just returned from a Scandinavian tour where he gave conferences for Restylane and received an excellent response.

Says Dr Haus; ‘After the summer break I always see an increase in patients seeking a variety of anti-ageing treatments and Restylane Vital delivers optimal results. People need to take greater care of their appearances and I help with that. With Restylane’s ease, safety and guaranteed results it is now one of the most popular treatments I perform for patients seeking radiant and healthy looking skin. If you have skin problems or issues with say the shape of the nose or lips then this is a treatment that works. Above all my patients feel new and leave the clinic with a new air of confidence and a glowing look.’

Dr Haus also offers all manner of non invasive treatments at his clinic including; VelaShape, Peels, Anti-Wrinkle Treatments using Botulinum Toxin, Dermal Fillers, and Laser hair removal.

Restylane Vital treatments start from £350.00 for one areawww.drhausdermatology.com / http://drarielhaus.blogspot.com 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF. 020 7467 1525

before after

before after

P 58-116 london septV2.indd 88 10/10/11 10:46:58

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H E A L T HB E A U T Y The PERFECT SMILE STUDIOS & INSTITUTE

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Leanne’s reaction to her new smile was how great and confident she looked!

“My new smile has given me a renewed confidence. I can’t stop smiling, even if I’m just walking down the street.

The Perfect Smile Studio doctors and staff are so professional, friendly and caring. They listened and knew exactly what I wanted to achieve. If you want the best, go to the Perfect Smile Studios.” Christian

“I chose the Perfect Smile Studios because they seemed to genuinely care and appeared to

be interested in creating the perfect smile design for me. I got no feeling that I was “just another patient”. As such I trusted them.” Francesca

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Page 53: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

The PERFECT SMILE STUDIOS & INSTITUTE

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CREATING BEAUTIFUL & HEALTHY SMILESwww.theperfectsmile.co.uk

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Leanne’s reaction to her new smile was how great and confident she looked!

“My new smile has given me a renewed confidence. I can’t stop smiling, even if I’m just walking down the street.

The Perfect Smile Studio doctors and staff are so professional, friendly and caring. They listened and knew exactly what I wanted to achieve. If you want the best, go to the Perfect Smile Studios.” Christian

“I chose the Perfect Smile Studios because they seemed to genuinely care and appeared to

be interested in creating the perfect smile design for me. I got no feeling that I was “just another patient”. As such I trusted them.” Francesca

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Page 54: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

there is an increasing trend for both men and women to seen non-surgical, non-invasive methods for achieving a younger look. There are various options available that fall into this category, including wrinkle relaxing injections such as Botox®, dermal fillers and skin peels, to name just a few.

Erika Moore recently visited Sister Kay Greveson at her clinic in Hampstead after becoming increasingly frustrated by her lines and wrinkles. Here she outlines her experience.

I work in a job that involves dealing with clients on a daily basis, so my appearance is important. I was increasingly aware of the lines on my forehead and between my eyes. I always felt as though I looked angry, and older than I was, even though I am only in my early 30’s. I approached Sister Kay Greveson her clinic within Aquarius Spa, Hampstead, about two months ago as I had been recommended to her by a friend. I was initially nervous as I have never had any sort of treatment like that before. I was worried about having the injections and what I would look like afterwards but Kay put my mind at ease immediately. We had a detailed chat about what results I wanted from the treatment; she took a medical history and some photographs. Kay explained that Botox® is a safe, naturally occurring protein that works by blocking nerve

signals to specific muscles that cause facial expression; relaxing the muscle and making the treated area smoother and less wrinkled. She gave me the option of using a ‘numbing’ local anaesthetic cream, which I took. Despite being nervous, I did not find the procedure bad at all. Kay talked me through each step and made sure I was comfortable throughout. She was very gentle and I hardly felt the injections; it certainly wasn’t as bad as I had

imagined. She explained that it would take between 2 and 14 days for the full results to be visible and advised me to come back after this time so she could check on the result and have a ‘dose adjustment’ of treatment if required. It was so exciting to see the lines disappearing little by little each day and I don’t think I’ve ever looked in the mirror so much as I did in those first 2 weeks! In the end I did not need more treatment as I was more than pleased with the results. I have a natural look and still have facial expression but no lines!! Botox® is not permanent, lasting only three to four months, after which, the lines that were there prior to treatment slowly return. I will definitely have it again when the time comes as it has made me feel so much more confident with my appearance. I feel that I look more relaxed and don’t have an ‘angry’ look from frowning all of the time.

It was so excItIng to see the lInes dIsappearIng lIttle by lIttle each

day and I don’t thInk I’ve ever looked In the mIrror so much as I

dId In those fIrst 2 weeks!

before before

after after

london’s BoToX queen

Kay Grevesonrgn ba (hons) Independent prescriber

sister kay greveson has over ten years experience working as a specialist nurse within the nhs. she qualified as an independent prescriber in 2007 and works as a mobile aesthetic practitioner in regents park & hampstead, and does home visits at her clients’ convenience.

regents park facIal aesthetIcstel: 07745845777 e-mail [email protected] web: www.facebook.com/regentsparkfacialaesthetics follow at: www.twitter.com/regentparkbotox

Voted Best Private Spa & Health Club in London*For more information please contact us:

Muswell Hill The Avenue N10 2QE Call 020 8482 3000 Hendon Hall Lane NW4 4TJ Call 020 8201 5500

labspa.co.uk

Limited Spaces Available*Time Out’s Best Gym in London

Come and Experience The Laboratory Spa & Health Club for yourself.

“ The Laboratory offers me exceptional facilities. They were my first choice when choosing a health club.”

Mark Foster... 5 times Olympic Champion and celebrity on Strictly Come Dancing.

7115 Life Ad.indd 1 08/09/2011 12:31P 58-116 london septV2.indd 78 10/10/11 10:48:34

5 4 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

H E A L T HB E A U T Y

Page 55: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

october 20 1 1104

with 25 years experience, she is the semi-permanent make-up genius who changes the lives of celebrities by revitalising and enhancing their look. Together with her team of specialists and revolutionary treatments, Tracey devises a complete treatment plan to get that youthful and natural look you are hoping for.

Semi-permanent make-up can change your life!

Want to change your look, freshen up, look well rested and ultimately look younger?

With an arch of the brow your look will be transformed from dated to on-trend and open eyed therefore giving the impression of fresh faced youthfulness. It’s time for a brow re-model.

“Semi-permanent make-up has taken a complete turn, gone are the days of the half moon shape slapped above the eye, we have so many different types of fantastic and natural looking ways to enhance your eyebrow shape from fine hair line strokes to simply filling in patchy eyebrows with a shadow effect. I can create a totally realistic and natural arched brow for both men and women!”

As you get older the shape of your face changes and it is very important to move with the times, it’s amazing how many women still over pluck their eyebrows into the shape they had in the nineties or even eighties. The area becomes over traumatised therefore making it impossible to achieve that full lush look you had in your 20’s. As the brows are such

an important part of the total impression of your look it is only smart to seek advice from a specialist in this area. The brows frame the eyes and can be the making of you, they should be well shaped but above all suit the shape

of your face and expressions.Semi-permenant make-

up is the answer to all your brow dilemma’s

Semi-permenant make-up can create a new look, it is so natural they will look like your own

LIP LINERThe common procedure most of you know about is the lip liner, which defines the outer lip and gives the impression of a fuller lip as if you were wearing a lip pencil liner.

Lip blush is the new lip line! This treatment is fantastic on more mature lips and

anyone who has thin lips and would like a fuller sexy looking lip. As you get older the pigment of the lips fades, with this procedure that youthful blush is restored. The colour of your lip is matched to your complexion and the results are lip transforming!

It sounds a little uncomfortable as the entire lip is tattooed, however my specialist Dr Harris applies a dental block so you will be totally pain free.

The common question and fear my clients have is “will I get the trout pout?” My answer is emphatically no, no and no again. I concentrate on bringing out your own natural attractiveness and inner beauty, I do not (unless the client is a celebrity and trying to achieve a different look) believe in enforcing an over exaggerated look. I like my clients to achieve an improved and youthful look which is natural and complements their character and lifestyle.

Well this should give you plenty to think about, feel like a change and know you need an overhaul. Make a booking today.

Until next month, stay well and get ready for the summer!Tracey x

Tracey can be seen in Harley Street, The West End and Crouch End or for private appointments at your home.To book an appointment with Tracey please contact:07967 038492/0208 340 8069Mention this magazine to receive your free gift.

Tracey Smyth is the semi permanent make-up expert everyone is talking about!

THE ART OF SEMI PERMANENT MAKE-UP

Tracey Smyth

It’s amazINg how maNy womEN stILL ovER PLuck thEIR EyEbRows INto thE shaPE thEy had IN thE NINEtIEs oR EvEN EIghtIEs

h e a l T hb e a u T y

T hT y

before afTer

P75-116 London Oct .indd 104 19/10/11 08:40:48

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 5 5

H E A L T HB E A U T Y

Page 56: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Eyes the gateway to your soul

he eyes are the fi rst thing people notice when talking to each other and they can certainly reveal your true

age. Most women want to know how to prevent, reduce

and remove wrinkles, puffi ness and dark circles under and

around their eyes and it is in fact really important to start looking after the eye area from a young age, rather than leaving it until later life when much of the damage may have already been done. In order to treat the eye area appropriately we need to look at the main areas of concern. Th ese are wrinkles and puffi ness.

WHAT CAUSES EYE WRINKLES?

Th ere are a few reasons why eyes wrinkles are formed but the main one is due to there not being enough moisture and oil in the skin surrounding the eyes. Smiling or frowning stretches the skin causing the cells around the eyes to expand. If there is a lack of moisture, when you stop smiling or frowning, the skin doesn’t return to normal as easily and fi ne lines start to appear. Using eye creams or serums will give the skin the moisture and oil you will need to help to prevent and reduce wrinkles under the eyes and prevent ‘Crows’ Feet’ from

forming. Th e latest technology in eye care uses stem cells which help to prevent the wrinkling of the skin when you smile or frown. Applied regularly, the active ingredients will restrict the muscle movement that causes the lines and wrinkles and are an alternative to muscle relaxing injections in that area.

Eye products containing retinol - such as Dermalogica Eye Reversal Complex - are always excellent for reducing wrinkles as retinol is a form of vitamin A, which will

exfoliate the skin cells and therefore reduce wrinkle depth over time.

Using eye products that contain sunscreens is also very benefi cial and will help to prevent UV damage and pigmentation that can occur around the eyes particularly during times of hormonal change such as pregnancy or the menopause. Prolonged periods of sun exposure will increase ageing around the eye area by 85%.

WHAT CAUSES EYE BAGS OR PUFFINESS?

Eye bags are actually deposits of fatty tissue under the eye that protect the eyeball. Th ey are held in place by a small thin muscle called the orbital septum. When you rub your eyes vigorously or take off your make up with harsh chemicals you pull this muscle and stretch it. If this is done continuously, over the years the orbital septum muscle is slackened and the fatty tissue falls forward to produce eye bags.

When this happens there is no eye treatment or eye cream that can rectify the eye bags only surgery where they will make a small incision under the eyelashes and take out the fatty tissue before tightening up the skin under the eyes. Sometimes eye bags can be genetic.

Puffi ness is a diff erent condition and often has symptoms linked to common allergies, although it can also be a genetic trait. Th e

best defence against puffi ness is prevention rather than cure: drink plenty of water, get enough of sleep (not too much though as this can cause puffi ness too) and sleep on a silk pillow case as it is better for lymphatic drainage and will prevent wrinkles too. Using a cooling eye gel at night can help to reduce swelling and leave the eyes feeling fresher and less puff y upon waking.

Lymphatic drainage is important and can help to drain the fl uid away from the eyes. Treatments such as ‘Lift 6’ help to drain fl uid around the eyes and will help with skin on the upper eyelids as well, which can be a delicate area to treat. Radio frequency can also help to tighten skin around the eyes and has proven to help reduce eye puffi ness if used regularly.

H E A L T HB E A U T Y

For more information on eye care or advanced aesthetic and anti ageing treatments, please contact Th e Anti Ageing Clinic

on 01727 874507 or email [email protected].

For a complimentary Eye Treatment Consultation and a sample of Age Eye Reversal

Complex, please quote ‘Radlett Life’ on booking.

wordsCarolina Brennan

5 6 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

to your soul wordsCarolina Brennan

best defence against puffi ness is

Eye products containing retinol - such as Dermalogica Eye Reversal Complex - are always excellent for reducing wrinkles as retinol is a form of vitamin A, which will exfoliate the skin cells and therefore reduce wrinkle depth over time...

and the fatty tissue falls forward to

there is no eye treatment or eye

Page 57: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

p32_AD_BUCKS_VARIOUS_Life Mags 18/11/2010 16:24 Page 1

Page 58: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

for years we have lusted after the celebrity’s must have buys, but have never known whether they really use what companies claim they do. However, now thanks to Twitter we hear it straight from the celebs themselves. Read on to find out what’s on your favourite star’s beauty shelf...

Paris Hilton (@ParisHilton) declared her love for the perfect pampering treatment for all skin types HydraFacial saying “Just got a hydrafacial. My skin is glowing, such an amazing facial! Loves it!”. HydraFacial removes dead skin cells and impurities with a vacuum-based skin abrasion tip while simultaneously bathing the healthy

underlying skin with deep cleansing, exfoliating and antioxidant serums. The specially formulated

serums are clinically formulated to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, congested pores, hyper-pigmentation and acne-prone skin, no wonder Paris loves this facial. The results are immediate and superior to more aggressive microdermabrasion - with no discomfort or downtime. Perfect for that

A-list skin, you will be left with a radiantly clean, moist and polished complexion.

HydraFacial from £80, available at leading salons and spas nationwide, for

stockists visit www.skinbrands.co.uk

By Levanah Reyes-WainWRight

Beauty! Beauty! TweeT all abouT iT!

Celebrities are always on the go, and when they need a beauty product that really works they turn to essential buy Egyptian Magic. This unique all natural multi-tasking skin care balm uses a

combination of effective ingredients from the Middle East and dates back to the Ancient times. Egyptian Magic

is the only balm trusted by stars like Madonna, Kate Hudson and make-up artists to transform skin: softening, smoothing, healing and giving it a healthy glow. Top Hollywood Stylist Rachel Zoe (@rzrachelzoe) tweeted saying “One of my all-time favourite beauty products for myself, Egyptian Magic Cream also works wonders on

a baby’s sensitive skin”. Soothing and restoring skin back to natural health, the super moisturising

benefits of olive oil are combined with the healing powers of bees wax and honey which are bursting with

antioxidants to protect the skin. The antibacterial benefits of propolis extract and radiance boosting royal jelly in this wonder product help soften and smooth the skin while boosting hydration.Egyptian Magic, £25.50, available from www.victoriahealth.com

▲▼

With so many tanning products on the market, what do the celebs turn to for that golden glow? Dannii Minogue (@DanniiMinogue) loves Vani-T Bronzing Custard - “I’m fastidious about body moisturiser. I love Vani-T’s Bronzing Custard, a gradual tanning moisturiser that’s never the wrong colour”. Bronzing Custard is different to other gradual tanners, because the DHA content is higher meaning you use less of the product because it goes further and lasts longer. The hint of self tan means you can build up a natural glow worthy of a red carpet appearance. Vani-T also doesn’t have the usual associated self tan soggy biscuit smell, thanks to the unique blend of essential oils. Vani-T’s Bronzing Custard might also be the secret to Dannii’s post baby toned body due to the luscious natural ingredients such as marine collagen, aloe vera, jojoba and sunflower oil that nourish, firm and hydrate the skin improving the skin’s elasticity, tone and texture.Vani-T Bronzing Custard, RRP £17, available from www.nuusuite.com

S E P T EMBER 20 1 12

beauty and tweet.indd 2 10/10/11 10:49:57

5 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

Page 59: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

S E P T EMBER 20 1 1 3

Hair is such a quintessential thing for celebrities; it can make or break their look. Of all the latest coveted hairstyles music maker Jessie J’s sleek, Pulp Fiction-esque bob and slashed fringe seems to be what’s getting the nation talking. And, now the secret to her statement style is well and truly out, as she revealed just how she keeps her bob intact. Tweeting to over 100,000 followers, Jessie J (@jessiejofficial) said, “Cloud Nine straighteners are AMAZING, they keep my bob looking f f f fresh.” The Cloud Nine Micro iron is designed for shorter hairstyles, layers and of course fringes, lending itself perfectly to Jessie J’s stand-out from the crowd look. And, with fame comes a new jet-set lifestyle for the singer. So, weighing-in at just 169grams and measuring a neat six inches, the Cloud Nine Micro iron is the perfect travel companion, to ensure her polished, poker-straight bob gets tongues wagging all over the world.Cloud Nine Micro iron, £54.95, available from the finest salons nationwide and to buy at www.cloudninehair.com

For those pregnant ladies, yummy mummy and newly joined Twitter user style icon Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham), tweeted her top tip. In a twitpic, she shared her favourite stretch mark preventer Elemis Japanese Camellia Oil tweeting “Pregnancy tip!!!! I have used this through every pregnancy, it’s amazing!! X VB”. For centuries Camellia Kissi Seed Oil was the Japanese beauty secret for healthy nails, hair, scalp and skin, imparting gloss and strength. This non-greasy easily absorbed oil is highly nourishing and rich in plant collagen helping to keep skin supple and hydrated. It’s no surprise that Mrs B loves this, especially since it has anti-ageing, antioxidant properties and can be used for baby massage too. Little Harper is certainly one lucky baby!Elemis Japanese Camellia Oil Blend, £27.60, available at www.timetospa.co.uk

For make-up lovers, Twitter is the mecca in discovering which lipsticks, eyeshadows and foundations celebs desire. Baby-faced Burlesque star Dita Von Teese (@DitaVonTeese) revealed her secret to a flawless face declaring that “My favourite foundation is L’Oréal True Match. I use N1”. Trendsetter and recent Royal Wedding singer Ellie Goulding (@elliegoulding) divulged “I’m absolutely loving my new Topshop Blush in Neon Rose got it on my lips, eyes and cheeks, just can’t get enough!”. Finally X-Factor favourite Leona Lewis (@leonalewismusic) showed that living the L.A lifestyle hasn’t changed her “Stumbled across some awesome makeup! I’m loving MyFace Cosmetics Blingtones Eye Shadows, which I found in Boots in the UK! Nice products”L’Oreal Paris True Match Foundation, £10.29, available at Boots nationwide. Topshop Blush in Neon Rose, £6, 08451214519. MyFace Blingtones, £9.99 each, 0840708090.

As for the Queen of Twitter, Lady GaGa (@ladygaga) recently tweeted a picture of her back-stage must have - Tiger Balm. Originating in China in the 1870s, Tiger Balm has really withstood the test of time, using healing properties of active natural ingredients including Camphor, Dementholised Mint Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Menthol and Clove Oil. Tiger Balm White is one of the most efficient and effective head ache relief rubs on the market. Just apply to skin, and its pain relieving properties will work quickly to reduce pain, discomfort whilst also relieving pressure and tension. Considering that she is one of the hardest working ladies in pop music, it isn’t a surprise that Lady GaGa can suffer with headaches but it’s good to see her using such a powerful yet price busting product. Tiger Balm White, Price RRP £4.67, is available from Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Asda, Superdrug, Boots and all good pharmacies.

h e a l T hb e a u T y

beauty and tweet.indd 3 10/10/11 10:50:02

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 5 9

H E A L T HB E A U T Y

Page 60: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

If you require for your home innovation in conjunction with high technology then carefully selected Italian Tiles from Bibliotheque are your option as the latest technological

tiles such as Fabricated Stone [Man-Made], Fabricated Marble & Fabricated Wood collections have no comparisons and not only do they have all the inherent characteristics, nuances and look of real stone and marble, they are actually 3.5 times harder than granite, impervious to staining and do not etch when subjected to acids, wines, vinegars or household lime scale removers, neither do they scratch , delaminate or pit unlike real marble and limestone and are extremely low cost in use maintenance. These ranges can be seen at all 3 of Bibliotheque’s Showrooms as well as www.bibliotheque.co.uk.

In order that you the client, do not have to suffer inconsistent shading, sizing or poor quality in use flooring or wall cladding, Bibliotheque also offer, as well as the very high tech luxurious product ranges, affordable Porcelains and Fabricated tiles in various sizes such as 60x30cm, 60x60cm, 80x80cm, 45x90cm, 60x120cm in both Natural and Polished finishes as well as Anti-Slip tiles suitable for external use.

You will not be disappointed nor compromised when

purchasing any of Bibliotheque’s products. Whilst creativity and innovation are important, the tiles supplied by Bibliotheque must meet the technical criteria which will allow the customer long lasting trouble free, low maintenance walls and floors as well

as of course, good looking and luxurious finishes.All of Bibliotheque’s tiles have been certified with

the European Ecological Quality Label as well as certified for Eco-Friendly Building [email protected]

Architectural Showroom: Arch 2 The Viaduct, St James’s LaneMuswell Hill, London N10 3QX. Tel: 020 8365 2084

Boutique Showroom: 230 Fortis Green Road, Muswell HillLondon N10 3DU. Tel: 020 8883 3715

Hertfordshire Showroom: Unit 11 Devonshire Business CentreCranborne Road, Potters Bar EN6 3JR. Tel: 01707 649932

BIBlIotheque

P 58-116 london septV2.indd 98 19/9/11 09:26:40

6 0 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

H O U S EGARDEN

Page 61: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

...the worktopthat fits on top

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your work surface and appliances. Fitting a newworktop is fast and effective, with each top custom made to fit your exact requirements. There is no need to remove oldsurfaces – we fit directly over your exiting surface. We guarantee complete peace of mind from start to finish. With over 60different worktop finishes available, let us show you how we can transform your kitchen with our simple superior surfaces.

Granite Transformations manufactures and installs Granite, Stone, Quartz and Glass worktops

Visit our north London showroom at 834 St. Albans Rd,Garston, Watford WD25 9FL.Open: 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday**Note: late opening on Wednesday 10.30am to 5.30pmand 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday

www.granitetransformations.co.uk/watford

Book a FREE home consultation with our interiordesigner and we’ll show you how easy it is totransform your kitchen worktops.

Call now on: 01923 671 900If you find a “like-for-like” quotation lower thanour quote within 30 days, we will match it andgive you a further 10% reduction. Terms and conditions apply

ASSEEN

ONTV

I thought I neededa new kitchenuntil I discovered...

gt(ExclusiveMag_Nov09)_TV:A4 17/11/09 12:48 Page 1

If you require for your home innovation in conjunction with high technology then carefully selected Italian Tiles from Bibliotheque are your option as the latest technological

tiles such as Fabricated Stone [Man-Made], Fabricated Marble & Fabricated Wood collections have no comparisons and not only do they have all the inherent characteristics, nuances and look of real stone and marble, they are actually 3.5 times harder than granite, impervious to staining and do not etch when subjected to acids, wines, vinegars or household lime scale removers, neither do they scratch , delaminate or pit unlike real marble and limestone and are extremely low cost in use maintenance. These ranges can be seen at all 3 of Bibliotheque’s Showrooms as well as www.bibliotheque.co.uk.

In order that you the client, do not have to suffer inconsistent shading, sizing or poor quality in use flooring or wall cladding, Bibliotheque also offer, as well as the very high tech luxurious product ranges, affordable Porcelains and Fabricated tiles in various sizes such as 60x30cm, 60x60cm, 80x80cm, 45x90cm, 60x120cm in both Natural and Polished finishes as well as Anti-Slip tiles suitable for external use.

You will not be disappointed nor compromised when

purchasing any of Bibliotheque’s products. Whilst creativity and innovation are important, the tiles supplied by Bibliotheque must meet the technical criteria which will allow the customer long lasting trouble free, low maintenance walls and floors as well

as of course, good looking and luxurious finishes.All of Bibliotheque’s tiles have been certified with

the European Ecological Quality Label as well as certified for Eco-Friendly Building [email protected]

Architectural Showroom: Arch 2 The Viaduct, St James’s LaneMuswell Hill, London N10 3QX. Tel: 020 8365 2084

Boutique Showroom: 230 Fortis Green Road, Muswell HillLondon N10 3DU. Tel: 020 8883 3715

Hertfordshire Showroom: Unit 11 Devonshire Business CentreCranborne Road, Potters Bar EN6 3JR. Tel: 01707 649932

BIBlIotheque

P 58-116 london septV2.indd 98 19/9/11 09:26:40

TM

inspirational designs

Kitchen Bedroom

Bathroom Centre

.08081 007 007Call free 24hr enquiry hotline

AUTUMN SALE NOW ON! Showroom Open 7 Days

0% Payment Plans On All Ranges*

KBBC House 19 Fairways New River Trading Estate Broxbourne EN8 0NJ* Subject to terms and conditions. Please ask for details

www.kbbc.co.ukuiry hotline

C

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CM

MY

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KBBC Sept2011 FPA.pdf 1 19/10/2011 12:45:50

Page 62: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

The company is headed up by David Sant, ex Senior Designer of Smallbone of Devizes who has a rich

background in design from his mother, an arts illustrator for Vogue and his father a renowned architect

specializing in interior store design for Harrods, Selfridges, and Harvey Nichols.

Sant London brings new and refreshing designs into the marketplace, allowing clients the freedom to design a

truly bespoke product of their own. Their pricing is highly competitive and the quality and finish exceptional.

You can guarantee that their attention to detail and customer service will be second to none and all of the

furniture is Made in Britain!

Sant London is able to create any furniture for your home; for the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, dressing room,

study, boot room or cellar in modern or traditional styles. Go to www.santlondon.com where you will find

their latest collections and client testimonials. Their brochure can also be ordered on-line and their Designers

will be very enthusiastic to discuss any aspect of a project with you.

T 01372 274249 E [email protected] W www.santlondon.com

A fresh perspective to the bespoke kitchen market!

21214 Sant Advertorial_aw.qxd:280x210 sant ad 28/09/2011 09:49 Page 1

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever” John Keates

Mont Blanc Collection

21214 Sant Advertorial_aw.qxd:280x210 sant ad 28/09/2011 09:49 Page 2

Page 63: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever” John Keates

Mont Blanc Collection

21214 Sant Advertorial_aw.qxd:280x210 sant ad 28/09/2011 09:49 Page 2

Page 64: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

50 Life Sep 2011

SINCE its launch in 2004,

the BeoVision 7 has been Bang & Olufsen’s best-selling TV with 130,000 units sold. It has won several design prices and is often heralded as the

Olufsen TV range.

The LCD screen in BeoVision 7-55 is based on new direct-type LED-backlight with local dimming for greater contrast. The TV contains state-of-the-art features ensuring a smooth picture performance, a sophisticated digital

surround sound module, and is one of the very few

to have an integrated Blu-ray player with 3D functionality.Imagine feeling totally absorbed and a part of the action in your favourite

technology introduced in the BeoVision 7-55, Bang & Olufsen will take you there. Unlike conventional 2D TV viewing, 3D TV provides a more intense, immersive experience that takes the viewer beyond the sofa in the living room – to feeling like he is right there on the

Whether you wish to enjoy your home cinema experience in 2D or 3D, BeoVision 7-55 is designed to give the viewer the ultimate TV experience – even in fast moving scenes.

3D feeds the left and the right eye of the viewer with

This means that to be able to decode what is recorded by the cameras, the viewer also needs to put on the active shutter glasses, which are designed to ensure excellent picture quality by communicating with the screen.

The beam-shaped loudspeaker below the screen provides superb acoustic performance and

sound as an integral part of your viewing experience. Musically, the speaker rivals

With the launch of the new 3D version of BeoVision 7-55, a new generation of 3D TV viewing is introduced. So get ready to be utterly enthralled by a 3D sight and sound sensation from Bang & Olufsen. And watch your TV experience come alive.

A PICTURE OFBEAUTY

The new 3D version of the BeoVision

7 55-inch TV with integrated Blu-

ray player boasts fantastic picture

performance and breathtaking sound;

and now a 3D home cinema experience

 

 

   

p72_BUCKS_B&O_2__ 17/10/2011 10:20 Page 1

6 4 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

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Page 65: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011
Page 66: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Colour, Fabric and Wallpaper

I n t e r I o r t r e n d s 2 0 1 1 / 2 0 1 2

Mary Gannon.indd 2 11/10/11 14:24:13

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Page 67: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

h e a l t hb e a u t y

Sera re autemne et perita orem perum nortes postum cre firte iactu st aucivilis, Sentient inatio efecupplicae

There has always been synergy between the fashion industry and interior design. We have always reflected one another, and recently the similarities are more marked.

It’s partly the tough financial times we are in. When there’s stringency, we seek investment pieces, iconic design that has lasting appeal.

From Ralph Lauren to Gucci, the colours on the catwalk are jewel colours: amethyst, emerald, ruby, garnet. Look at Dior, Pucci, Marc Jacobs, Versace and Chanel; here are the jades, burgundies, teals, oranges and citrine.

The same lavish palette is on trend in interiors too. Just as the style gurus tell you not to become trapped in black or boring in beige, colour is being celebrated by the interior design world for 2011/2012. Embellished prints and rich colours are being used to echo our growing penchant for opulence.

There’s even a correlation between fashion accessories and the backdrops used in interiors. On the catwalk, metallic leathers and burnished metal accessories, together with a smattering of precious stones predominate. This trend is entering our homes. Look for tie-backs, wallpapers and cushions, with crystal and metallic trims.

These trends have a life, however. When handled skilfully they won’t just last one season but will have a timeless appeal.

MELDING TRADITIONAL AND MODERN TECHNIQUESIn this design for a lounge and dining space a traditional approach has been used with a modern twist.

The inspiration for the colour and textiles for this suite has come straight out of a casket of precious stones: amethyst, sapphires, and rich gold.

The metallic wallpaper is from the Donghia range and gives a mellow effect as the light plays across it. Velvets from Nobilis and Stark fabric cover the sofas, armchair and cushions. Teamed with period silk for curtaining in an updated colourway of teal with sapphire, duck egg and smoky pink detailing from The Silk Gallery this is about as fabulous as it gets.

VELVETSUse the silk velvets sparingly where they won’t be spoiled by over-use. Always the most luxurious of fabrics velvet was originally made from silk. The addition of manmade fibres, cotton and mohair has increased its durability but without loss of lustre. For upholstery of main seating, choose one of the hardier velvets in a rich deep colour.

SILkMan-made silk substitutes may adorn the catwalks but pure silk maintains its throne in the world of luxury interiors. Traditional designs, including damasks, in updated colours and shades are in hot demand, as are embroidered silks.

Mary Gannon and her team of interior designers offer a combined experience of more than 35 years and have worked on projects ranging from a high tech cinema room to landmark period properties. If you would like to discuss a potential project or are interested in any of the fabrics featured you can contact Mary on (0)207 823 3355 Mary Gannon Design, Top floor, Chelsea Reach, 79-89 Lots RoadLondon SW10 ORN. t: +44(0) 20 7823 3355e: [email protected]: www.marygannondesign.co.uk

Mary Gannon.indd 3 11/10/11 14:24:26

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Page 68: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

may 20 1 148

sa n t i q u e s

ome years ago I had a large oil-on-canvas portrait of a lady, obviously of noble background and, in her day – that is of the later 17century – of considerable beauty. It was a fine example of a typical set piece of time; she is holding, rather dramatically, a scantily clad child who clearly wants to play with a small dog, and all are within swathes of luxurious drapes. In a well-preserved condition and in its original carved wood and gilt frame, it was not long before it caught the eye of someone who recognises a good picture. A deal was struck and the picture was delivered and hung in a place just made for it. And so began one of those great friendships that grow from common interests, although this buyer had enjoyed a few more interests than I, and I thought mine were varied enough. The customer and later to become friend was Laszlo Grof, a beguiling Hungarian who arrived in England in 1956 and without any English found employment first as a cook and then as a steel worker in an iron foundry, then into the mine as an explosives expert. Next came a spell as a furniture maker for Messrs Gomme in High Wycombe working on their famous ‘G Plan’ range, before turning his hand to running his own chicken farm. Settling down to become a qualified accountant Laszlo then went to Oxford to receive a degree with honours in history and has just completed his 8th

John Bly

tour of Transylvania lecturing on his favourite subject, the history of cartography. In this field Laszlo is one of the leading authorities on ancient maps with a collection envied by museums and connoisseurs all over the world.

In the field of music he is a keen jazz buff and has been in the audience on several occasions when I’ve been playing, both with a small group and with the Sticky Wicket Big Band Drum Spectacular which we put on at The Stables in Wavenden,

the jazz Mecca established by the late and much lamented John Dankworth and his still-singing wife the fabulous Cleo Lane. So time spent with Laszlo is never silent and while visiting him last year I noticed and remarked on two contemporary paintings hanging in the same room as the lady with the child and dog. They had an instant appeal in the colourful and atmospheric representation of rural Hungary, full of light and shadows.

Zoltan explained that the

Zoltan’s technique of using enamel-oil, give his paintings the power of

colour achieved by traditional oils

Impressionist movement had and still has an important influence in Hungary and a leading exponent is the artist Zoltan Grof – no relation – who painted the two I was admiring.

Zoltan’s technique of using enamel-oil, give his paintings the power of colour achieved by traditional oils, with the luminescence of light and shade created by the modern medium of lacenamel.

Zolton developed his skills and love of the medium as a student. The impressionist traditions of the famous Hungarian Nagybanya School which was founded as an artist’s colony in 1896 by Simon Hollosy, was the spark from which Zoltan developed his passion and skills to produce the vibrant and atmospheric paintings. In 2001 Zoltan was commissioned to create 24 large scale pictures for UNESCO, each commemorating the cities, towns and villages given World UNESCO status. His paintings are in numerous private collections in Hungary and abroad. At the time of writing we are holding an exhibition of Zoltan’s work in the grand Bedford Room at Woburn Abbey, the first we hope of many. We all meet fascinating people from time to time but there can be few occupations like mine where you have the opportunity to learn just how fascinating they really are and how they act as catalysts for other people with varying talents in such disparate fields.

october 20 1 12

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Page 69: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

f ebruary 20 1 1 PB

John Bly Est Antiques 1891.Tel: 01442 823030 Mobile: 07831 888826.Website: www.johnbly.comEmail:[email protected]

october 20 1 1 3

BlyOCTDPS.indd 3 19/10/11 08:42:00

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H O U S EGARDEN

Page 70: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Could you explain what renewable energy is? Why we need it and where you see the role of BritishEco in the complete picture?Renewable energy is energy that is naturally replenished from the sun, wind, rain and geothermal heat. Renewable energy systems extract this energy and convert it into heat and electricity; because it is naturally replenished quickly it does not consume valuable carbon based fuel sources.

It has been well documented that carbon based fuel sources are decreasing, ever difficult and expensive to find and extract and tend to be located in less stable countries than our own. Switching a portion of our energy consumption away from fossil fuels to naturally replenished energy sources means, not only, will we move away from our dependence on fossil fuels, we will gain a much stronger and more secure supply for the future.

The BritishEco vision is to provide both individuals and organisations with affordable and reliable renewable energy systems.

Is BritishEco a local company?Yes, we are a national company with regional offices across the country. This ensures you get the service and support you need locally, backed up by the head office to ensure you receive the best equipment at the best prices covered by our comprehensive warranties.

BritishEco Consultants are professional, industry experts with an extensive knowledge of renewable energies. They provide reliable and honest advice on all renewable technologies. They will also be able to advise you on Government incentives and grants and any local incentives in your area.

What is the most popular domestic renewable energy opportunities BritishEco specialise in?We specialise in the main renewable technologies for the domestic and commercial market such as, solar photovoltaic (PV) cells for generating electricity, heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal panels to heat your hot water and property, as well as rainwater harvesting and wind turbines.

Won’t these options cost a fortune to install or are there perhaps, government grants available as an incentive – if so, who can claim and how much financial help is available to each household?In April 2010 the Government backed Feed-In Tariffs (FITs) scheme was launched to enable people to be paid for generating electricity from solar panels or a wind turbine fitted in or at their property. In addition to being paid by the Feed-In Tariffs you will also be able to use the electricity you generate for free. The amount you receive for generating electricity can be secured for 25 years; index linked and is completely tax free. The benefits that you will receive for installing

solar panels are 43.3p for every unit of electricity you generate, whether you use it or not. Whatever electricity you do not use you can sell back to the grid and receive a minimum, additional 3 pence for every unit. A typical 4kw domestic solar pv system could attract £1485 per year from the Feed-In Tariffs, £51 from exporting to the national grid and a £206.00 saving on their electricity bill, giving a total benefit to you of

£1742.00 every year for 25 years.

Are there complicated issues about securing planning approval to install a domestic renewable energy source?Most renewable energy technologies do not now require planning permission. The Government has relaxed the planning regulations to encourage domestic customers to embrace renewable energy. Wind turbines do still require planning permission and there are environmental and neighbour issues still surrounding them but the acceptance of turbines at both national and local level is increasing. How quickly would an

installation from BritishEco take, who undertakes the work?A typical domestic installation from the point of ordering to being switched on is 6-8 weeks this includes all the detailed design, testing and full commissioning of the system. Each regional office has its own MCS accredited installation teams based locally. How long before a home owner starts to see a benefit or evens gets a return on their investment? As soon as the system is commissioned and the home owner is in receipt of all the necessary documentation that BritishEco will provide them with they are able to begin claiming the Feed-In Tariff and start generating a return on investment.

Does BritishEco have any accreditation that offers home owners peace of mind? For the property owner to be eligible for the feed in tariff they must have the system designed, installed and commission by an MCS accredited company. BritishEco are MCS accredited and members of the Renewable Energy Association (REA). Alongside the manufacturers warranties BritishEco offer a 10 year guarantee on the installation of solar photovoltaic panels.

Where and how do interested home owners begin the process of discussing the installation of a renewable energy source?By calling us on 0845 257 0041 we will be able to discuss your requirements and put you in touch with our local consultant who will be able to advise you further.

Interview with Tony O’Connor – Managing Director of BritishEco

You know when you have made the right decision

British Eco.indd 2 12/9/11 10:56:45

H O U S EGARDEN

7 0 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

Page 71: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Tel 01992 66038217 Old Cross, Hertfordwww.hdaudiovisual.net

State-of-the-art showroom in Hertford, Hertfordshire. Expert advice & Installation.

Could you explain what renewable energy is? Why we need it and where you see the role of BritishEco in the complete picture?Renewable energy is energy that is naturally replenished from the sun, wind, rain and geothermal heat. Renewable energy systems extract this energy and convert it into heat and electricity; because it is naturally replenished quickly it does not consume valuable carbon based fuel sources.

It has been well documented that carbon based fuel sources are decreasing, ever difficult and expensive to find and extract and tend to be located in less stable countries than our own. Switching a portion of our energy consumption away from fossil fuels to naturally replenished energy sources means, not only, will we move away from our dependence on fossil fuels, we will gain a much stronger and more secure supply for the future.

The BritishEco vision is to provide both individuals and organisations with affordable and reliable renewable energy systems.

Is BritishEco a local company?Yes, we are a national company with regional offices across the country. This ensures you get the service and support you need locally, backed up by the head office to ensure you receive the best equipment at the best prices covered by our comprehensive warranties.

BritishEco Consultants are professional, industry experts with an extensive knowledge of renewable energies. They provide reliable and honest advice on all renewable technologies. They will also be able to advise you on Government incentives and grants and any local incentives in your area.

What is the most popular domestic renewable energy opportunities BritishEco specialise in?We specialise in the main renewable technologies for the domestic and commercial market such as, solar photovoltaic (PV) cells for generating electricity, heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal panels to heat your hot water and property, as well as rainwater harvesting and wind turbines.

Won’t these options cost a fortune to install or are there perhaps, government grants available as an incentive – if so, who can claim and how much financial help is available to each household?In April 2010 the Government backed Feed-In Tariffs (FITs) scheme was launched to enable people to be paid for generating electricity from solar panels or a wind turbine fitted in or at their property. In addition to being paid by the Feed-In Tariffs you will also be able to use the electricity you generate for free. The amount you receive for generating electricity can be secured for 25 years; index linked and is completely tax free. The benefits that you will receive for installing

solar panels are 43.3p for every unit of electricity you generate, whether you use it or not. Whatever electricity you do not use you can sell back to the grid and receive a minimum, additional 3 pence for every unit. A typical 4kw domestic solar pv system could attract £1485 per year from the Feed-In Tariffs, £51 from exporting to the national grid and a £206.00 saving on their electricity bill, giving a total benefit to you of

£1742.00 every year for 25 years.

Are there complicated issues about securing planning approval to install a domestic renewable energy source?Most renewable energy technologies do not now require planning permission. The Government has relaxed the planning regulations to encourage domestic customers to embrace renewable energy. Wind turbines do still require planning permission and there are environmental and neighbour issues still surrounding them but the acceptance of turbines at both national and local level is increasing. How quickly would an

installation from BritishEco take, who undertakes the work?A typical domestic installation from the point of ordering to being switched on is 6-8 weeks this includes all the detailed design, testing and full commissioning of the system. Each regional office has its own MCS accredited installation teams based locally. How long before a home owner starts to see a benefit or evens gets a return on their investment? As soon as the system is commissioned and the home owner is in receipt of all the necessary documentation that BritishEco will provide them with they are able to begin claiming the Feed-In Tariff and start generating a return on investment.

Does BritishEco have any accreditation that offers home owners peace of mind? For the property owner to be eligible for the feed in tariff they must have the system designed, installed and commission by an MCS accredited company. BritishEco are MCS accredited and members of the Renewable Energy Association (REA). Alongside the manufacturers warranties BritishEco offer a 10 year guarantee on the installation of solar photovoltaic panels.

Where and how do interested home owners begin the process of discussing the installation of a renewable energy source?By calling us on 0845 257 0041 we will be able to discuss your requirements and put you in touch with our local consultant who will be able to advise you further.

Interview with Tony O’Connor – Managing Director of BritishEco

You know when you have made the right decision

British Eco.indd 2 12/9/11 10:56:45

Page 72: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

The first ever Ideal Home Show at Christmas will be the largest home

event this winter, full of ideas & inspiration on everything you need to make your home ideal for Christmas.

With over 400 exhibitors, the Ideal Home Show at Christmas will feature; Ideal Interiors, Ideal Home Improvements, Christmas Food & Drink, Christmas Fashion & Beauty, Christmas Gifts & Decorations & Christmas Gadgets, perfect

IDEAL HOME EXHIBITION

at Christmas

The

16th-20th

November,

earls Court,

loNdoN

There will also be six beautifully themed room sets on how to dress your home for Christmas & creating the ultimate Christmas table setting.

Ideal home ImprovemeNtsBoasting the UK’s top brands and independent specialists to help you source the right suppliers whatever your DIY need; from kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, windows to wallpapers, paints, DIY tools and much more. Visit the How To Theatre sponsored by Bosch Power Tools for fun, informative daily demonstrations from specialist speakers and celebrity experts.

Food & drINk Italian Chef & TV Presenter Gino D’Acampo, will demonstrate how to create the perfect Christmas dinner with an Italian flair on the live Celebrity Chef Theatre. Celebrity wine expert Olly Smith will give his top picks of wines and tipples. From matching wines with your Christmas dinner to the ideal fizz for your party, whatever your budget!

The Christmas Food & Drink section will see hundreds of foodie exhibitors, allowing you to sample tasty items from artisan and speciality producers, eg meats, cheeses and condiments, festive wines

and champagnes, Christmas puddings, chocolates, gourmet gift hampers and much more!

There will be a Pop-up Book Shop where you could meet celebrity chefs and get a signed copy of their latest cookery books - perfect as a unique Christmas gift. You can also relax over a glass (or two) of chilled bubbly in the elegant Champagne Bar, or with an early Christmas lunch.

GadGets aNd GIzmos No Christmas would be complete without the latest toys and gadgets to play! With gadgets and gizmos set to be hot property this Christmas, you’ll find everything you need from preparation in the kitchen, entertaining the kids with TV and Audio systems, to ideal Christmas presents.

GIFts & deCoratIoNsMake your home a cosy retreat with a treasure trove of decoration ideas. Discover thousands of unique and sumptuous gifts and handcrafted decorations. Find ‘ideal’ gifts from home accessories, toys & baby gifts, household gadgets, stocking fillers and seasonal items you wouldn’t ordinarily find on the high street.

FashIoN & beautyDiscover the latest products and pampering in the Christmas Fashion & Beauty section. Socialise over a glass of champagne and catch daily fashion shows and talks on the Catwalk which will bring to life the latest fashion trends in an exciting visual showcase. Expect to see beauty products, Christmas party fashion, cosmetics, jewellery & accessories and sumptuous gifts to enjoy.

Open daily from 10am-6pm, Late Night Thursdays open until 9pm.

Tickets can be booked online or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0844 209 7330 or visit the website www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk

for your home and the family this festive season.

There will be celebrity guests including; Gino D’Acampo, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Suzi Perry and Olly Smith offering top tips and advice, as well as experts in our How to Theatre, on hand with ideas and inspiration on your home improvement and interior needs.

Here’s what you can expect to see this year….

Ideal INterIors Hosted by the flamboyant interior designer, Laurence Llewelyn Bowen, Ideal Interiors will offer a selection of furniture, furnishings, home and interior accessories that can be delivered in time for Christmas.

Laurence will also be on hand at the How to Theatre sponsored by Bosch Power Tools giving tips and advice on the latest interior trends, home improvement ideas, and decorating inspiration for those finishing touches.

P75-116 London Oct .indd 76 14/10/11 10:50:31

H O U S EGARDEN

7 2 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

Page 73: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

www.intoto.co.uk

Insurance backed protection for your deposit, all other payments, work in progress and a six year warranty.

In-toto Kitchens Argyle House, Joel Street, Northwood Hills,Middlesex HA6 1NS

Tel: 01923 822 332Email: [email protected]

In-toto Kitchens 12 George Street,

St Albans,Herts, AL3 4ER

Tel: 01727 811488 Email: [email protected]

Under New

Management

Showrooms at Northwood Hills & now also at St Albans

FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICE

15868 northwoodhills_140x210mm 12/10/11

0845 257 0041Call us today on

Solar Thermal Solar PV Wind Turbines Heat Pumps Biomass Boilers Rainwater

You know when you have made the right decision.

For more information please visit: www.britisheco.com

Choosing the right combination of equipment is only part of the decision, the other half is selecting the right company to handle your investment in renewable energy.

We have been designing and installing renewable energy systems nationwide since 2002 and have gained a reputation for excellence through our technical knowledge, onsite experience and customer care enabling you to know you have made the right decision in choosing BritishEco.

Maximising your investment in renewables

The first ever Ideal Home Show at Christmas will be the largest home

event this winter, full of ideas & inspiration on everything you need to make your home ideal for Christmas.

With over 400 exhibitors, the Ideal Home Show at Christmas will feature; Ideal Interiors, Ideal Home Improvements, Christmas Food & Drink, Christmas Fashion & Beauty, Christmas Gifts & Decorations & Christmas Gadgets, perfect

IDEAL HOME EXHIBITION

at Christmas

The

16th-20th

November,

earls Court,

loNdoN

There will also be six beautifully themed room sets on how to dress your home for Christmas & creating the ultimate Christmas table setting.

Ideal home ImprovemeNtsBoasting the UK’s top brands and independent specialists to help you source the right suppliers whatever your DIY need; from kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, windows to wallpapers, paints, DIY tools and much more. Visit the How To Theatre sponsored by Bosch Power Tools for fun, informative daily demonstrations from specialist speakers and celebrity experts.

Food & drINk Italian Chef & TV Presenter Gino D’Acampo, will demonstrate how to create the perfect Christmas dinner with an Italian flair on the live Celebrity Chef Theatre. Celebrity wine expert Olly Smith will give his top picks of wines and tipples. From matching wines with your Christmas dinner to the ideal fizz for your party, whatever your budget!

The Christmas Food & Drink section will see hundreds of foodie exhibitors, allowing you to sample tasty items from artisan and speciality producers, eg meats, cheeses and condiments, festive wines

and champagnes, Christmas puddings, chocolates, gourmet gift hampers and much more!

There will be a Pop-up Book Shop where you could meet celebrity chefs and get a signed copy of their latest cookery books - perfect as a unique Christmas gift. You can also relax over a glass (or two) of chilled bubbly in the elegant Champagne Bar, or with an early Christmas lunch.

GadGets aNd GIzmos No Christmas would be complete without the latest toys and gadgets to play! With gadgets and gizmos set to be hot property this Christmas, you’ll find everything you need from preparation in the kitchen, entertaining the kids with TV and Audio systems, to ideal Christmas presents.

GIFts & deCoratIoNsMake your home a cosy retreat with a treasure trove of decoration ideas. Discover thousands of unique and sumptuous gifts and handcrafted decorations. Find ‘ideal’ gifts from home accessories, toys & baby gifts, household gadgets, stocking fillers and seasonal items you wouldn’t ordinarily find on the high street.

FashIoN & beautyDiscover the latest products and pampering in the Christmas Fashion & Beauty section. Socialise over a glass of champagne and catch daily fashion shows and talks on the Catwalk which will bring to life the latest fashion trends in an exciting visual showcase. Expect to see beauty products, Christmas party fashion, cosmetics, jewellery & accessories and sumptuous gifts to enjoy.

Open daily from 10am-6pm, Late Night Thursdays open until 9pm.

Tickets can be booked online or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0844 209 7330 or visit the website www.idealhomeshowchristmas.co.uk

for your home and the family this festive season.

There will be celebrity guests including; Gino D’Acampo, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Suzi Perry and Olly Smith offering top tips and advice, as well as experts in our How to Theatre, on hand with ideas and inspiration on your home improvement and interior needs.

Here’s what you can expect to see this year….

Ideal INterIors Hosted by the flamboyant interior designer, Laurence Llewelyn Bowen, Ideal Interiors will offer a selection of furniture, furnishings, home and interior accessories that can be delivered in time for Christmas.

Laurence will also be on hand at the How to Theatre sponsored by Bosch Power Tools giving tips and advice on the latest interior trends, home improvement ideas, and decorating inspiration for those finishing touches.

P75-116 London Oct .indd 76 14/10/11 10:50:31

Page 74: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

MAY 2 0 1 198

leading designers, especially those with celebrity clients who are also friends, usually guard their privacy with a zeal.

But Kelly Hoppen has chosen to use her own home to demonstrate those highly successful techniques that have won her a host of famous fans, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Anthony Hopkins, Jude Law and Elton John.

Her uber-luxurious sanctuary is a homage to her renowned ‘East Meets West’ style with its uncluttered, opulent rooms; a distinctive use of balance and symmetry, and trademark colour palette of neutrals, including her signature ‘taupe’ shade.

“Each of the homes I have designed and lived in myself has been an on-going exercise - an experiment if you like - where I have tried to understand how we see things, what gives us contentment and what we are really trying to achieve,” she explains.

Walls are finished in light-reflecting white waxed

plaster, one of her favourite effects, and there are ebony-stained floorboards and glossy lacquered surfaces.

“I have displayed more objects and used more furniture, texture and subtle contrast here than in any of my previous homes,” she says.

“It’s a marked shift towards a feminine, luxurious, organic glamour in which I feel very much at ease.”

The sophisticated, tranquil setting is the result of a painstaking renovation of her period home in London, during which she ensured the interior was perfectly tailored to suit her lifestyle.

“Choosing your home’s style is a similar process to choosing a piece of couture clothing - it should fit you like a glove,” she says of the setting, which features in Kelly Hoppen Ideas, her new book that includes a foreword by Victoria Beckham describing Hoppen as “a very dear friend”.

Hoppen, who is as discreet about her clients as she is about

InsIde Kelly Hoppen’sSanctuary

Designer Kelly Hoppen opens tHe Door to Her glamorous Home anD gives Her top tips on creating successful rooms. By gaBrielle fagan

her private life (her step-daughter is film star Sienna Miller), says simply: “I think nowadays, whoever we are, we all want a nurturing retreat that feels safe, comfortable and easy to live in.”

Her own homes, she says, have always been characterised by an eclectic element - mixing vintage, contemporary, ultra-modern and antique styles.

But whatever a person’s taste, she insists, the guiding principle must be that “your

home works for you and how you live, and in essence represents who you are”.

Follow Hoppen’s room by room guide to creating a designer home.

loungIng styleLiving rooms can be integrated into an open-plan design or be just as effective as a separate grand space, she says. Hoppen’s spacious first-floor living room has a fireplace as its focal point and a chimney breast covered in a panel of black glass within which a television is set.

“Always think about where the main seating will be, where the television will be be, to help you decide the layout,” she advises.

“A monochromatic palette fulfils my aim to make the room seem like a stunning black and white picture.”

Flooring, she advises, must be timeless - not a fashion statement - as it will be in place for a long time and expensive to change.Hoppen loves: Sheer curtains

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H O U S EGARDEN

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MAY 2 0 1 198

leading designers, especially those with celebrity clients who are also friends, usually guard their privacy with a zeal.

But Kelly Hoppen has chosen to use her own home to demonstrate those highly successful techniques that have won her a host of famous fans, including Gwyneth Paltrow, Anthony Hopkins, Jude Law and Elton John.

Her uber-luxurious sanctuary is a homage to her renowned ‘East Meets West’ style with its uncluttered, opulent rooms; a distinctive use of balance and symmetry, and trademark colour palette of neutrals, including her signature ‘taupe’ shade.

“Each of the homes I have designed and lived in myself has been an on-going exercise - an experiment if you like - where I have tried to understand how we see things, what gives us contentment and what we are really trying to achieve,” she explains.

Walls are finished in light-reflecting white waxed

plaster, one of her favourite effects, and there are ebony-stained floorboards and glossy lacquered surfaces.

“I have displayed more objects and used more furniture, texture and subtle contrast here than in any of my previous homes,” she says.

“It’s a marked shift towards a feminine, luxurious, organic glamour in which I feel very much at ease.”

The sophisticated, tranquil setting is the result of a painstaking renovation of her period home in London, during which she ensured the interior was perfectly tailored to suit her lifestyle.

“Choosing your home’s style is a similar process to choosing a piece of couture clothing - it should fit you like a glove,” she says of the setting, which features in Kelly Hoppen Ideas, her new book that includes a foreword by Victoria Beckham describing Hoppen as “a very dear friend”.

Hoppen, who is as discreet about her clients as she is about

InsIde Kelly Hoppen’sSanctuary

Designer Kelly Hoppen opens tHe Door to Her glamorous Home anD gives Her top tips on creating successful rooms. By gaBrielle fagan

her private life (her step-daughter is film star Sienna Miller), says simply: “I think nowadays, whoever we are, we all want a nurturing retreat that feels safe, comfortable and easy to live in.”

Her own homes, she says, have always been characterised by an eclectic element - mixing vintage, contemporary, ultra-modern and antique styles.

But whatever a person’s taste, she insists, the guiding principle must be that “your

home works for you and how you live, and in essence represents who you are”.

Follow Hoppen’s room by room guide to creating a designer home.

loungIng styleLiving rooms can be integrated into an open-plan design or be just as effective as a separate grand space, she says. Hoppen’s spacious first-floor living room has a fireplace as its focal point and a chimney breast covered in a panel of black glass within which a television is set.

“Always think about where the main seating will be, where the television will be be, to help you decide the layout,” she advises.

“A monochromatic palette fulfils my aim to make the room seem like a stunning black and white picture.”

Flooring, she advises, must be timeless - not a fashion statement - as it will be in place for a long time and expensive to change.Hoppen loves: Sheer curtains

LIFE-london-MAY2011V2.indd 98 20/5/11 13:51:11

MAY 20 1 1 99

h o u s e g a r d e n

h o u s e h o u s e g a r d e n

Maximise space using reflective surfaces such as

glossy lacquer and employing the colour taupe - a perfect neutral which creates an atmosphere of harMony

and calm.

flooring and furnishings that echo the overall feel of the rest of the home.

entertaInIng zoneKitchens are now as popular as dining and entertaining areas, and Hoppen has devised her own streamlined recipe for the space.

In her home this area extends over the majority of the ground floor and incorporates a dining area leading on to the garden.

“It’s definitely the theatre at the heart of my home,” she says.

“To cook and entertain at home is now cool and I have a fireplace up on the wall like a painting, which is a focal point, and cosy in winter.

“As I’m always hosting dinners and love having guests drinking and chatting while I cook, I wanted this to be an open and alluring space for friends to relax.

“The island bar is where everyone gravitates - it’s not only a ‘chill and chat’ zone, it’s a place to work, read and have breakfast and so upholstered comfortable chairs are an essential.”

The dining area has its own character defined by a large oak farmhouse-style table which Hoppen designed.Hoppen loves: Maximising space with an island bar on double-sided central units, using reflective surfaces such as glossy lacquer or silky polished plaster and employing the colour taupe - a perfect neutral which creates an atmosphere of harmony and calm.

personal retreatDefine how a bedroom will be used and consider

whether it will also function as a dressing room and extra private lounging area, she says.

In Hoppen’s compact bedroom, a low, wide headboard and integrated bedside units help give an illusion of more space.

“A bedroom is a treasured place, the ultimate comfort zone, and should be designed to please all your senses,” says Hoppen.

“It’s your sanctuary and must be warm and inviting with lots of texture. My own bedroom is my hiding place and I’ve used a calm, taupe palette and concealed lighting to give the room a warm, seductive glow.”Hoppen loves: Adjustable lighting which gives you the freedom to alter the atmosphere to suit mood, shutters that filter daylight softly and allow privacy, and fabrics such as linen, velvet and satin for a luxury look, plus a dressing table for jewellery and treasured possessions.

to filter natural light, black and white framed photographic prints and the impact of repetition in pieces of furniture and objects, such as a group of three tables or a pair of vases.

entrance powerHallways are often, wrongly, neglected areas in the home, says Hoppen, and can flag up personal style.

In her hallway, recessed strip lights on either side of the treads and risers of the staircase make it appear to ‘float.’ The lighting also has the effect of appearing to widen the space.

“Halls should impress as well as being practical. Whenever I come home, I look forward to experiencing the sense of wellbeing that my hall engenders,” says Hoppen.

Eye-catching features include a pair of Sixties zinc wall mirrors hung above a shelf displaying flower arrangements and tea lights.Hoppen loves: Full-height doors that run all the way up to the ceiling to increase a sense of space, as well as bespoke door handles and

LIFE-london-MAY2011V2.indd 99 20/5/11 13:51:18

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O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 7 5

Page 76: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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Page 78: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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Page 80: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

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Page 81: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

PROPERTY LIFET H E L A T E S T A N D B E S T P R O P E R T I E S O N T H E M A R K E T

S P O N S O R E D B Y

LONGBOURNETOTTERIDGE COMMON N20

An architecturally designed residence set in grounds of approximately 2 acres on thesouth side of Totteridge Common affording spectacular views over open countryside.

£ 6,500,000 FREEHOLD

Dealers in 20th Century Paintings, Drawings, Sculpture and Prints

38 Holywell Hill, St. Albans, AL1 1BU, opposite white Café Rouge building Telephone: 01727 840043 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ianrastrick.com

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2011-07-11 Advert-St Albans life-v2.indd 1 14/7/11 21:39:41

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 8 1

Page 82: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Sitting in a prime location in sought-after Parkgate Avenue is ‘Th e Haven’ – a stunning new-build

6-bed/5-bath family home with c. 5,500 sq.ft. of well-planned spacious accommodation.

It is an outstanding contemporary home from quality developer, Heronslea, that fi ts in exceptionally well with the other impressive homes in this tranquil tree-lined avenue.

Carefully balancing the traditional solidity of its design with ‘must-have’ 21st Century lifestyle requirements, ‘Th e Haven’ has been fi nished to the exceptionally high standards and attention to detail common to all Heronslea-built properties.

As befi ts a home of this quality,

two of the area’s leading agents are marketing ‘Th e Haven’ and all appointments to view should be made through them.

“Th is is a great family home that continues our long-standing and successful relationship with Heronslea, in which we are jointly

bringing their exceptional design and build expertise to new areas of Hertfordshire, Middlesex and N.W. London,” said Lee Martin, Preston Bennett Director.

Lee Martin, together with fellow agent, Lawrence Henry of Statons, acknowledge that Heronslea homes

are setting the standards in 21st Century living and both have a fast-growing cohort of prospective buyers who are keen to be the fi rst to view their new developments of this quality. In addition to ‘Th e Haven’ both fi rms are also handling another Heronslea development in Radlett of 12 luxury apartments.

“It’s just the perfect family home,” said Lawrence Henry, New Homes Partner at Statons. “Th e Haven is just the right size and with over 5,500 sq.ft. of accommodation has everything that the growing family of today could want.”

Kerb appeal of ‘Th e Haven’ is immediately apparent, with its paved carriage driveway and feature lighting, mock-Tudor gable, traditional brickwork

THE PERFECT FAMILY HOME IN HADLEY WOOD

8 2 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

P R O P E R T Y

A SUPERB NEW ’HERONSLEA’ HOME NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH THE AREA’S LEADING AGENTS, PRESTON BENNETT AND STATONS.

LEFT TO RIGHT... LEE MARTIN OF PRESTON BENNETT, JASON RISHOVER OF HERONSLEA AND LAWRENCE HENRY OF STATONS

Page 83: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

and feature large windows. Th e house opens up from the vestibule and hall on the ground fl oor with its impressive stairway. Th e spaciousness of the rooms is enhanced by their high ceilings and light fl ooding every room.

Th e fl exibility of the ground fl oor accommodation provides a separate dining room (16’ 9” x 16’ 3”), library/home offi ce and drawing room (25’ 11” x 13’ 9”).

Th e house’s ‘Super Room’ - thathas excellent garden views - incorporates the beautifully - planned and fi tted kitchen and family room (27’ 1” x 18’ 10”) and orangery. Th e kitchen is fi tted with electrically-operated wall cabinets and a host of appliances including Miele double oven and steam oven; De Dietrich induction hob, fridge/freezer and wine cooler; Quooker hot tap. Access to the large paved patio and

landscaped garden, with a high degree of privacy, is through French doors in the kitchen/family room or drawing room. A guest cloakroom and utility room – with access to the double garage- complete the ground fl oor.

A large landing on the fi rst fl oor gives excellent access to 4 bedrooms including the beautiful master bedroom suite. Th is has its own private terrace overlooking the landscaped rear garden and a separate spacious dressing room and en-suite bathroom.

A second bedroom also has its own en-suite bathroom and dressing area, with the other two bedrooms having built-in wardrobes and an en-suite bathroom/shower room.

Th e top fl oor opens out into an exceptional light and airy, well-proportioned leisure room (36’ 11” x 16’ 3”) that provides a host of possibilities for how it can be used.

Th ere are also two further bedrooms and a bathroom on this fl oor.

Living at ‘Th e Haven’ is enhanced by air conditioning to the principal rooms; touch-button controlled Crestron lighting and multi-room audio system; CAT5 wiring throughout and wiring for Sky+. With CCTV, a video-entry phone system, mains-operated smoke detectors and a NACOSS compliant security system, peace of mind is assured.

‘Th e Haven’ is the perfect family home in an excellent location. Th ere is a fi ne choice of local schools – both state and private. Mainline trains from close-by Hadley Wood station to the City take only 20 minutes and High Barnet Underground station is but a short distance away. Th e motorway system is only 3 miles away, aff ording access to London’s main airports.

‘Th e Haven’ presents an opportunity to buy a unique, new and distinctive home and is priced at £ 2,950,000.

Due for completion very shortly, exclusive visits to ‘Th e Haven’ can be arranged by contacting:

Call Preston Bennett on020 8954 8626, email [email protected] or visit www.prestonbennett.co.uk

Call Statons on 020 8441 9555,email [email protected] visit www.statons.com

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 8 3

P R O P E R T Y

COMPUTER GENERATED IMAGE OF THE HAVEN

TYPICAL QUALITY INTERIORS FROM HERONSLEA

Page 84: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

2896.2428_Fish_mag_outl.indd 1 11/10/2011 16:04

Page 85: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Specialising in: Totteridge • Woodside Park • Oakleigh Park • Whetstone • Mill Hill • Arkley • Barnet Hadley Wood • Winchmore Hill • Brookmans Park • Cuffley • Northaw • Essendon • Radlett • Elstree

Park Street • Aldenham • Shenley • Letchmore Heath and surrounding areas

SALES OFFICES AT: BARNET 020 8449 3383 • TOTTERIDGE 020 8445 3694 • HADLEY WOOD 020 8440 9797 • BROOKMANS PARK 01707 661144 • RADLETT 01923 604321NEW HOMES SHOWCASE: HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9555 PREMIER LETTINGS: HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9796 • ASSOCIATED OFFICES: MAYFAIR & MOSCOW

For many homes in all price ranges please call us or visit www.statons.com

SALES • NEW HOMES • LETTINGS

FROM COTTAGES TO COUNTRY ESTATESwww.statons.com

A magnificent detached, family residence in approx 1.35 acres. Extended to a high specification. Benefits include a cinema room, heated outdoor swimming pool, changing room plus a feature thatched summerhouse

with bar facilities and superb views to the rear over greenbelt countryside. 5 receptions, 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms.

A unique period family home with stunning contemporary interior which has recently undergone a substantial extension and

renovation and is set in beautiful mature grounds of approx 2 acres. The property expands to an impressive 8000 sq ft (approximately)

including outbuildings. 7 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms.

A well presented detached family residence set in one of Hadley Wood’s premier roads. 3 receptions, 5/6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (1 en suite), southerly aspect rear garden, swimming pool, garage,

F/H, Sole.

A detached house situated in a highly sought after residential cul-de-sac within the heart of Totteridge. 3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, family bathroom, south facing garden approx. 80 ft, off street parking,

garage. There is further potential to extend the house (subject to obtaining relevant planning permissions). Sole Agents.

ARKLEY

ELSTREE

HADLEY WOOD TOTTERIDGE

A brand new contemporary house which will be constructed by Your Fusion part of the Fusion Residential development, on a plot of approximately 1.5 acres. The property will be approximately 9,000 sq ft and has been sympathetically designed to maximise the stunning surrounding views over rolling greenbelt countryside. 7 bedrooms, 5 reception rooms, 5

bathrooms, cinema room, gym, swimming pool, hot tub, spa relaxation room.

RADLETT

£5,995,000 FREEHOLDRADLETT OFFICE 01923 604321

A substantial detached residence of immense charm and character benefiting from a southerly aspect rear garden in excess of 200 feet abutting Hadley Wood golf course. 5 bedrooms, 4 reception

rooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), garage, heated swimming pool, plot extends to approx. 0.7 of an acre. Sole Agents.

HADLEY WOOD

£3,350,000 FREEHOLDHADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

£2,495,000 FREEHOLDBARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

£4,995,000 FREEHOLDRADLETT OFFICE 01923 604321

Set back from the road is this extraordinary character family residence which dates back in parts from 1880. 5 bedrooms, 4 receptions, 2 bathrooms, self contained annexe, indoor swimming pool with leisure complex, double garage, landscaped

gardens. The 8000sq ft of accommodation offers an abundance of period features and charm yet is also ideal for family living and entertaining on a grand scale.

ARKLEY

£2,600,000 FREEHOLDBARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

£2,495,000 FREEHOLDHADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

A private and secluded detached country residence set in landscaped and wooded grounds of about 7.5 acres and approached via a gated gravelled carriage driveway. Comprising kitchen/breakfast

room, 3 receptions plus study & sun room, 4/5 bedroomsand 3 bathrooms.

NORTHAW

£2,950,000 FREEHOLDBROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

An imposing detached family home set over four floors providing a superb environment for family living and entertaining on a grand

scale. 6 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, 5 bathrooms, leisure complex including pool, spa and steam room and 290 ft landscaped garden.

Sole Agents.

MILL HILL

£2,595,000 FREEHOLDTOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

£695,000 FREEHOLDTOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

2896.2428_Fish_mag_outl.indd 1 11/10/2011 16:04

Page 86: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

ACCOMMODATION

Entrance Hall Reception Room Dining Room Kitchen/Breakfast Room Family Room Games Room, Study Utility Room Master Bedroom with En Suite Dressing Room & Bath/Shower Room

5 Further Bedrooms with En Suite Bath/Shower Rooms

Self Contained Guest Suite Cloakroom Integral Double Garage

Guide Price £3,750,000

For further details, please contact our Radlett Offi ceon 01923 604321.

8 6 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

HIGHGROVERADLETT, WD7

P R O P E R T Y

H ighgrove is a beautifully presented family home designed to provide character

and individuality of a bygone age complemented with 21st century lifestyle technology.

Highgrove is set on a generous mature plot of approximately half an acre and is situated in one of Radlett’s premier locations. Constructed less than ten years ago, this outstanding individually designed family residence extends to over 6,847 sq ft and spans three fl oors. Positioned behind electronic gates and accessed via sweeping cobbled and block paved drive, this exclusive residence has fi ve reception rooms, six bedrooms, all with en suites, a self contained guest suite, superb handcrafted ‘de Mornay Boyes’ kitchen/breakfast room, a bespoke fully fi tted study by ‘Th e Woodworks’, plus two games rooms/cinema/ additional rooms on the second fl oor.

A grand entrance hall with

feature central staircase and oak balustrades lead to the well proportioned and immaculately presented reception rooms; an elegant drawing room, TV/family room, dining room and study and to the spacious and comprehensively fi tted kitchen/breakfast room which in turn leads to the utility room and integral double garage. On the fi rst fl oor, the master bedroom benefi ts from a large dressing room and superb en suite bathroom, four further bedrooms, all with en suites plus a guest suite comprising of a bedroom, bathroom and storage room. On the second fl oor are two spacious rooms currently used as games rooms which could also be used as cinema rooms or additional bedrooms, plus a bathroom and numerous storage cupboards.

Th is delightful home is set on a beautiful plot surrounded by mature trees and shrubs and to the rear of the property a terrace leads out to the extensive lawns.

Page 87: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

CAMLET WAYHADLEY WOOD, EN4

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1 8 7

P R O P E R T Y

C amlet Way is a stunning re-built detached home in excess of 7000 sq. ft fi nished

to a very high specifi cation in one of the area’s prime locations with glorious views towards central London.

Situated on the south side of Camlet Way, the property is within easy walking distance of Hadley Wood mainline station (regular services into Moorgate with a journey time of approx. 30 minutes). Cockfosters underground station ( Piccadilly Line) is a short drive away, as is junction 24 of the M25 which provides a road link to all major motorways and London’s airports. Education is well catered for and recreational facilities include Hadley Wood’s Golf and Tennis Clubs. Local shops include a gym, restaurants, hairdresser and convenience store.

Th e approach is via a carriage sweep driveway with electrically operated wrought iron entrance gates. Natural stone portico with oak front door.

FEATURES

Lutron lighting. HDTV and phone/internet and wiring to all rooms. Under fl oor heating throughout. Continental hoover system. Solid oak doors with matching architrave. Oak fl ooring throughout. Italian Keller kitchen with Italian fl oor tiles and quartz worktops and splashbacks. Comprehensive range of high quality appliances. Bi folding doors from drawing room, kitchen and lounge give access to patio and rear garden. Bosch appliances to the utility room. High quality bathrooms and shower rooms. Secluded southerly aspect rear garden with large patio with corner brick built barbeque. First fl oor balcony with large seating area and glorious views towards central London. Very effi cient energy rating

ACCOMMODATION

Entrance Hall Kitchen Day Lounge Formal Lounge Study Guest Cloakroom Utility Room Master Bedroom En Suite Bathroom En Suite Dressing Room Bedroom 2 En Suite Bathroom Bedroom 3 Family Shower Room Bedroom 4 Bedroom 5/Playroom Second Family Shower Room Bedroom 6 Garage/Staff Quarters - Easily converted back to garage space Garden

Guide Price £4,200,000

For further details contactthe Hadley Wood Offi ceon 020 8440 9797.

Page 88: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

and utility room, annexe with family room, tv room, wine cellar and 2 changing rooms. To the 1st floor there is a master suite comprising bedroom, dressing area & en suite bath, 4 further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Further living space can be found in the self-contained apartment above the triple garaging which includes 2 bedrooms, lounge, kitchen and bathroom.

L O N G B O U R N ET O T T E R I D G E C O M M O N N 2 0

The mature parkland gardens are mainly laid to lawn with a terrace running along the rear of the property to the heated swimming pool and lawned garden extending to a tennis court. Outbuildings include 2 barns and a workshop.

The extensive circular driveway provides off street parking for numerous cars.

An architecturally designed residence set in grounds of approximately 2 acres

on the south side of Totteridge Common affording spectacular views over open countryside.

The extensive accommodation comprises on the ground floor - study, drawing room, dining room, games room, kitchen/breakfast room

8 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

P R O P E R T Y

£ 6,500,000 FREEHOLD

For more information on this property, please contact Real Estates on 020 8445 3132 or visit the website www.realestates-wsp.co.uk

Page 89: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

TOTTERIDGE £1,500,000

Newly refurbished 6 bed, 3 bath detached property finished to a high standard to incl handmade English kitchen/diner open plan with tv room, Villeroy & Boch sanitary ware with Grohe fitments, luxury carpets, fitted robes, zoned music system with speakers to all

main rooms, 5.1 surround sound to living room, gas underfloor ch, alarm system, comfort cooling to 3 beds & kitchen/family room, landscaped front & rear garden.

Totteridge office 020 8445 3132

Woodside Park Totteridge WhetstoneOakleigh Park Finchley Mill Hill Arkley

www.realestates-wsp.co.uk

NEW BARNET £825,000

An extended & modernised 4/5 bed semi-detached home with open plan accommodation on the ground floor. Oakleigh Park (National Rail) station is close by. Guest clk, study/bed 5, lounge, spacious contemporary kit/breakfast/tv room, master bed with en suite, approx 100’

rear garden, off street parking.

Totteridge office 020 8445 3132

TOTTERIDGE £999,995

An extended 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom detached house situated in this sought after location close to Totteridge & Whetstone tube station. Guest clk, 2 receptions, fitted kitchen open to

dining area, study, utility room, approx 70’ mature south facing garden, garage, own driveway with off street parking.

Totteridge office 020 8445 3132

SOLE

AGENT

TOTTERIDGE OIRO £2,000,000

Imposing detached residence constructed in the 1960’s by the current owners. Well proportioned accommodation comprising open plan hall & dining room, double aspect

drawing room, tv room and kitchen/breakfast room to ground floor, 4 beds and 2 baths (1 en suite). Approx 100’ garden, carriage drive.

Totteridge office 020 8445 3132

TOTTERIDGE £1,900,000

Situated in one of the area’s most sought after locations, a 5 bed 3 bath home, beautifully presented throughout & offering spacious accommodation incl triple aspect drawing room,

dining room, family room, kit/breakfast room, utility, master suite comprising his & hers dressing rooms & lux en suite bath, approx 140’ mature garden, garage, carriage drive.

Totteridge office 020 8445 3132

JOIN

T

SOLE A

GENT

JOIN

T

AGENT

SOLE

AGENT

ARKLEY £1,650,000

Situated in a gated development on a corner plot, a double fronted detached home boasting panoramic views to the rear. Lounge, dining room, study, family room, fitted kitchen/breakfast room with Aga, utility, master bedroom with balcony & en suite, guest suite, 2 further beds and

family bath. Bed 6/games room to 2nd flr. Double garage, off street parking.

Totteridge office 020 8445 3132

SOLE

AGENTSO

LE

AGENT

Page 90: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Premier Move introduces specialist services available throughout Hertfordshire and Beyond …..

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01582 461581www.thelandoffice.co.ukEXPERIENCE • INTEGRITY • ENTHUSIASM

In many cases, landowners prefer our developer contacts toseek planning at their own expense so you can remain freefrom costs and planning expenses Lance Trendall

Free Initial Appraisal and Consultation • Land sold to DevelopersThere are many different approaches to selling your valuable development site eachwith different merits and pitfalls.Our initial meeting can focus on the most advantageous strategy for your circumstances.All matters are respected as confidential and your concerns and time scale arerespected throughout.

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Page 91: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Premier Move introduces specialist services available throughout Hertfordshire and Beyond …..

• Saves time for Executors

• Guarantees the “best Offers” process will not be corrupted

• Gets the best price for The Estate

• Helps raise money for the local hospice

We give 10% of our fees to charity –5% to the hospice nearest the probate propertyand another 5% to the clientʼs chosen charity

Land Wanted

We sell homes for Executors, Attorneys and Court of

Protection Deputies throughout England and Wales

PROBATE SALES OFFICE

01582 460046www.probatesalesoffice.co.uk

[email protected]

01582 461581www.thelandoffice.co.ukEXPERIENCE • INTEGRITY • ENTHUSIASM

In many cases, landowners prefer our developer contacts toseek planning at their own expense so you can remain freefrom costs and planning expenses Lance Trendall

Free Initial Appraisal and Consultation • Land sold to DevelopersThere are many different approaches to selling your valuable development site eachwith different merits and pitfalls.Our initial meeting can focus on the most advantageous strategy for your circumstances.All matters are respected as confidential and your concerns and time scale arerespected throughout.

Call us today and arrange your free land appraisal

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Barham Avenue Elstree Hertfordshire

Page 92: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

A magnificent family home (approximately 6000 sq ft) with a spectacular indoor pool and leisure complex; situated in rural Arkley, yet within easy reach of High Barnet with all its amenities and fast roads to London and the North.

The property is offered in immaculate condition throughout and internal viewings are highly recommended.

£3,100,000TO LET £3500 PW

BARNET ROADARKLEY EN5

Page 93: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Master bedroom with en-suite dressing room & bathroom

5 further bedrooms

2 further bathrooms

3 shower rooms

Kitchen/breakfast room

Dining room

Family room

Study

Indoor leisure complex comprising swimming pool, gym, sauna, spa & lounge area

Guest cloakroom

Large landscaped garden

Gated off street parking

Page 94: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

ABBEY VIEWA luxury home in this prestigious turning just off Marsh Lane. Offering fantastic accommodation over 3 floors, this stunning modern house looks out over a beautiful landscaped garden with large heated swimming pool & hot tub.

The house offers 5413 sq. ft (502.85 sq.m) of bright and spacious accommodation, offering numerous features including underfloor heating, a stunning large kitchen/diner/family room with bi-fold doors opening onto the garden, air conditioning to all principal rooms, a gym and a carriage driveway with off street parking for several cars.

MILL HILL NW7

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom Dressing room & large roof terrace 4 further bedroom suites Lounge

Dining room Playroom/ study Gym Very large kitchen diner/family room opening to garden

Double garage Heated swimming pool & jaccuzi Carriage driveway Air conditioning Underfloor heating

£2,795,000FREEHOLD SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

Page 95: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Each apartment offers luxury accommodation including a ground floor apartment benefiting from direct access to a private terrace leading onto a communal garden and a separate garage. Further benefits include fully equipped kitchens, underfloor heating, luxury bathrooms, wood flooring to hall & lounge, carpets to

bedrooms, allocated off street parking & 10 year NHBC guarantee.

Kingsgate Court is situated in a residential tree-lined road in Finchley. Conveniently located for the varied shopping and transport facilities of the area including easy access to the City and West End.

KINGSGATE AVENUEFINCHLEY N3

PRICES FROM£735,000TO£975,000SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

We are delighted to offer this luxury exclusive development of only 4 apartments comprising of 2 x 2 bedroom and 2 x 3 bedroom apartments.

Page 96: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

P.O.A.FREEHOLD SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

TOTTERIDGE LANETOTTERIDGE N20

An elegant country

retreat which was built

by renowned local

builders ‘Oliver and

Saunders’ approximately

10 years ago.

This substantial

house is situated off

Totteridge Lane midway

between Pine Grove

and Links Drive.

6/8 bedrooms 6 bathrooms 5/6 main receptions

Double garage Ample parking Landscaped gardens

Swimming pool Staff/teenage/office/ granny annexe

Land area approx 0.4 acres

Joint Sole Agents

Page 97: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

A Large 6/7 bedroom family house set back from the road behind security gates in Mill Hills most prestigious turning. Offering numerous features including 4 reception rooms double garage and a lovely large rear garden.

At the rear of the garden is a very large detached leisure complex comprising swimming pool, hot tub, gymnasium and provisions for his and hers changing rooms with showers and WC.

This building is in the middle of refurbishment and needs further finishing and modernisation but would be a magnificent feature ofthe property when finished.

6/7 bedrooms Lounge Dining room Family room Study Double garage Kitchen/breakfast room Swimming pool complex (unfinished) Large rear garden

MILL HILLNW7 £2,295,000

FREEHOLD SUBJECT TO CONTRACT UPHILL ROAD

Page 98: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

WITH AUBERGINES ANDCRISPY PARMESAN TOPPING

SERVES 6INGREDIENTS

500g Rigatoni 2 medium size aubergines 2x400g tinned cherry tomatoes 150ml olive oil 10 basil leaves 4 cloves of garlic, peeled & cut in half 100g freshly grated Parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste

PREPARATION

1 Place the aubergines on a chopping board and cut into strips about 1cm wide and 5cm long, discard the centre part containing the seeds.

2 Heat the oil in a large frying pan, add the aubergines and fry for approx 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Stir occasionally.

3 Use a slotted spoon to remove the aubergines from the pan and drain on kitchen paper. Sprinkle with a little salt.

4 Discard two third of the oil from the pan where you fried the aubergines and fry the garlic in the remaining oil for 30 seconds. Add in the cherry tomatoes with the basil, stir all together and simmer on a medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.

5 Add in the aubergines, stir and continue to cook for a further 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

6 Fill with 4 litre of water a large saucepan and take to the boil.

Add in 2 tablespoons of salt and cook the Rigatoni in the boiling water until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent from sticking. “To get the al dente perfect bite, cook the pasta 1 minute less then instructed on the packet”.

7 Once the pasta is cooked, drain and tip back into the same pan where you cooked it.

8 Take the saucepan on a low heat, pour over the aubergine sauce and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir all together for 30 seconds, allowing all the fl avours to combine properly.

9 Transfer in an ovenproof dish big enough to contain all the pasta and sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

10 Place under a hot grill for 10 minutes until the top gets bubbly and crispy.

11 Let it rest for 5 minutes before portion it and enjoy.

For more information up to date information on Gino, please visit www.ginodacampo.com

WITH AUBERGINES AND

Rigatoni GratinatiGino

D’Acampo’s R E C I P E F O R

9 8 O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

Th is month I will be spending 1 week in the beautiful region of Puglia working alongside the Consorzio Alimentare Puglia, selecting only the best olives for the Levante brand which is becoming very successful in restaurants

F O O DD R I N K

www.ginodacampo.com

Th is month I will be spending 1 week in the beautiful region of

Alimentare Puglia,

Even more GinoYou can also get Gino’s lastest book:

Italian Home Baking available nation wide & online.

‘Eating Italian’ isthe iPhone & iPad

app from Gino D’Acampo! Available

from the app store.

Page 99: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011

Solutions inc11 The Maltings Shopping Centre, St Albans, AL1 3NLwww.solutions-inc.co.uk Tel: 01727 894849

iPad 2 is here.Come and see why it’s evenbetter the second time round.The device that started it all now leaps further ahead. iPad 2 is thinner, lighter and even faster than the original, with the same 10-hour battery life.1 The new front and back cameras let you make FaceTime2 video calls and capture HD video on the beautiful, 9.7-inch Multi-Touch display. And the optional iPad Smart Cover3 attaches magnetically and aligns perfectly. Discover the amazing iPad 2 at Solutions inc..

1 Compared with previous iPad. Battery life varies by use and configuration. See www.apple.com/uk/batteries for more information. 2 Requires a FaceTime-enabled Mac with an Internet connection or a FaceTime-enabled iOS device with a Wi-Fi connection. Not available in all areas. See www.apple.com/uk/mac/facetime for more details. 3 iPad Smart Cover sold separately. Some colour may rub off leather covers during use. TM and © 2011 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.

Page 100: St Albans Life Magazine October 2011