Cheltenham Living Nov - Dec 2022

A picturesque wedding venue in the Cotswolds 

Set in miles of Cotswolds countryside and more than 150 lakes, De Vere Cotswold Water Park 

provides a stunning backdrop for any wedding day. 

With lake views, delicious wedding breakfasts curated by an Executive Chef, luxury overnight 

accommodation and experienced Wedding Coordinators, you can be sure every detail is 

taken care of to create an unforgettable day. 

www.devere.co.uk/cotswold-water-park-hotel | 01285 864 000 | waterpark.events@devere.com 

Lake 6, South Cerney, GL7 5FP

C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

26 

FESTIVE DESSERTS TO INSPIRE 

I do hope you’re ready for 

some festive fun - because 

this edition is coming in 

with (sleigh) bells on! After 

so many years of disrupted 

celebrations, it’s great to be 

able to look forward to some 

normality and really get into 

the spirit. 

First up we’ve got some 

delicious recipes - if you aren’t 

a fan of Christmas pudding 

(I’m in your camp) we’ve got 

lots of alternatives to keep 

everyone happy! 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

If you are hosting Christmas 

guests this year, we’ve got all 

the tips and tricks you need to 

make the experience stressless 

for you and comfortable 

for your visitors - it will be so 

lovely, they may even want a 

repeat stay! Heaven forbid! 

The competition section in 

this edition is a real bonanza 

- we’ve got an adult and child 

bike duo, a smart washing 

machine, 2 x £150 vouchers 

for cashmere clothes and 

accessories, a deluxe hamper 

and family fun at the Sea Life 

centre all to be won! 

34 

GUEST BEDROOM 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Steve Davies 

e steve.davies@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984506 

Cover image courtesy of Waitrose 

38 

READY FOR WINTER? 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be 

held liable for any loss occasioned by 

failure of an advertisement to appear, or 

any damage or inconvenience caused by 

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of 

this publication may be reproduced without 

prior permission from the publishers. 

The opinions expressed within are not 

necessarily those of the publishers. 

This is all alongside our usual 

dose of school, home, garden 

and later life advice. 

I hope you enjoy this issue 

and have some time in the 

coming months to take pause 

and reflect on the year - the 

passing of a much loved 

monarch, but a host of new 

beginnings - we will have the 

first King’s Christmas speech 

this year to punctuate our 

own celebrations. However 

you spend the festive season, 

I, and the rest of the team 

here, wish you a very happy 

Christmas and a peaceful 

New Year - see you in 2023! 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

COMPETITION 

To enter any (or all!) of our competitions, head to 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions. 

Find the competition and enter on that post, 

using the appropriate keyword. 

T&C’s apply and no cash alternatives available. Winners chosen at 

random - entries made after closing date will not be accepted. 

WIN Bobbin, the 

A SET OF PARENT London based 

AND CHILD independent 

bike retailer 

MATCHING offers a 

VINTAGE STYLE selection 

BIKES FROM of vintage 

style bikes in 

BOBBIN 

pastels and 

BIKES! beautiful bright 

shades, suitable 

from age two with 

balance bikes, all the way up to 

adults. 

They also offer a range of 

complimentary accessories 

including wicker baskets, pannier bags, 

helmets and bike decorations. 

We are offering one lucky reader an 

adult Brownie 7 Dutch Bike worth £549, 

Bobbin’s signature Dutch bicycle and a 

matching child’s Gingersnap bike (12”- 

26”) start from £189 

All handmade in small batches the 

Bobbin bikes offer high quality and 

comfortable, not to mention stylish, 

leisure bikes for the whole family. 

www.bobbinbikes.com 

Closes 19/12/2022 - 

Competition keyword: ‘BOBBIN’ 

Did you know that a Candy RapidO washing machine is so 

smart that you can show it a photo of your laundry and it will 

tell you the perfect cycle to wash it at? Candy’s Snap&Wash 

smart feature allows users to communicate with their washing 

machine via an app. This feature offers technology that provides 

efficiency from the comfort of your phone. 

If you like to keep things simple but not compromise on quality, 

then Candy is the perfect option for you. And we have a smart 

Candy RapidO washing machine to offer one lucky reader! 

www.candy-home.com 

Closes 19/12/2022 - Competition keywords: ‘CANDY RAPIDO’ 

Loop Cashmere is the home 

of feel good cashmere. Each 

garment is crafted with love, 

following sustainable practises 

from goat to finished garment. 

Our Winter 22 collection is out 

now, offering gorgeous lofty knits, 

irresistible textures and a rainbow of 

colour. The collection is designed in the 

softest cashmere to effortlessly see you 

through the winter months in complete 

luxury. 

We’re offering you the chance to win one of 

two £150 gift vouchers and treat yourself or 

a loved one, to a little sustainable luxury. 

www.loopcashmere.co.uk. 

Closes 19/12/2022 - Competition keyword 

‘LOOP’ 

WIN 

2 X £150 

VOUCHERS 

TO ONLINE 

WITH LOOP 

CASHMERE! 

WIN 

A CANDY SMART 

WASHING 

MACHINE 

WORTH OVER 

£400! 

Looking for the perfect gift this Christmas? 

Delight your friends and family with a selection box of delicious 

treats. One lucky reader will win a ‘Decadent Christmas in a 

Box’ containing the following: 

6kg Free Range Whole Turkey | 4.5kg Unsmoked Ham | 1kg 

Side of Smoked Salmon | 1kg Organic Cheddar | 1kg Cropwell 

Bishop Stilton | Christmas Pudding | Harrow & Hope Brut 

Reserve (750ml bottle) | Classic Cranberry Sauce | Granny’s 

Apple Chutney | Artisan Coronation Sauce | British Goose 

Fat | Luxury Bread Sauce | Traditional Roast Gravy | Sage & 

Onion Stuffing | Pigs In Blankets | 200g Smoked Chicken 200g 

Smoked Duck. 

www.copasturkeys.co.uk 

Closes 09/12/2022 - Competition keyword ‘COPAS’ 

Discover the amazing 

underwater world of the 

SEA LIFE Aquariums 

at one of the 11 

locations throughout 

WIN 

4 X TICKETS 

TO ANY SEA 

LIFE CENTRE! 

WIN 

CHRISTMAS IN 

A BOX WORTH 

OVER £400 

WITH COPAS 

TURKEYS! 

the UK and Ireland. 

Are you a Shark lover, a 

Humboldt Penguin fan, or 

a clownfish fanatic? At SEA 

LIFE you can see them all - from 

the curious and the rescued to the rare and the enigmatic. Every 

SEA LIFE is unique, and so are its creatures – a visit here will get 

you closer to the oceans than ever before. 

There are 11 SEA LIFE centres where the prize can be redeemed; 

London, Birmingham, Great Yarmouth, Loch Lomond, 

Blackpool, Brighton, Manchester, Scarborough, Hunstanton, 

Weymouth and Bray. Three lucky readers will win 4x tickets. 

www.merlinannualpass.co.uk 

Closes 19/12/2022 - Competition keywords: ‘SEA LIFE’ 

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

REG Cheltenham Living Ad 153x110 copy.pdf 1 12/10/2022 09:31 

Visit www.regentarcade.co.uk 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 

Getting ready for the festive season? 

Discover all Regent Arcade has to offer, from your 

favourite high street shops, as well as epic lifestyle 

stores and independent retailers, we have everything 

you need to surprise all the family this Christmas. 

Need a break in between shopping? 

Well, we have you covered! Why not grab the latest 

blockbuster at our luxury cinema or you can even 

enjoy a little tipple and a bite to eat in many of our 

eateries. It’s all here in the heart of Cheltenham. 

We also offer convenient parking onsite, satnav postcode: GL50 1HN 

and more 

cotsw lds 

Letting your holiday home has never been easier 

At Cotswolds Hideaways our local team is well placed 

to help you let your holiday home 

Benefits include: A Marketing or Marketing and Managed service 

Professional photography | No joining or annual fee | Peace-of-mind damage cover 

Competitive commission rate | No restrictions on the use of your property 

We’re always looking to expand our portfolio, so why not get in touch 

and request your FREE Property Letting Guide? 

newowners@cotswoldshideaways.co.uk | 01451 887 766 | Office in Stow-on-the-Wold 


THE 

VERY MERRY 

GIFT 

GUIDE 

PERFECT PRESENTS 

FOR EVERYONE ON 

YOUR LIST 

A whisky with saline 

notes with aromas of 

gingerbread and candied 

fruit, Gwalarn, £35.99, 

thewhiskyexchange.com 

Upgrade tatty old 

slippers for these 

stylish moccasins, 

Fielding 3 Suede 

Slippers, £49, 

moshulu.co.uk 

gifts for 

HIM 

Support his 

fitness goals in 

2023 - get better 

results from any 

workout routine with 

the thin, lightweight 

fitness smartwatch that 

includes a 6-month 

Premium membership, Fitbit Versa 

4, £199.99, fitbit.com 

Cordless kitchen appliances are a 

game changer, and they don’t come 

better than KitchenAid, 6-Speed 

Hand Mixer with Flex Edge Beaters, 

£119, kitchenaid.co.uk 

Sip on 15 limited 

edition festive beers 

from across the 

country! £43.50, 

bestofbritishbeer. 

co.uk 

Deep cleanse with one side, 

then help skincare sink in 

with the heated jade stone. 

PMD Clean Pro Jade, £165, 

uk.pmdbeauty.com 

gifts for 

HER 

A ‘Great Taste’ awarding-winning 

Espresso Martini - shake with ice and 

enjoy! £25, kocktail.co.uk 

Discover the ultimate three-step ritual to 

reveal smooth, dewy, and glowing skin. This indulgent 

kit includes Cleanser, a Muslin Cloth, the new gentleyet-potent 

daily Radiance 

Repair Retinol Serum and 

sumptuous Moisture Cream, 

Radiant Renwal Ritual 

Set, £95, 

evelom.co.uk 

Get perfect, heatless curls overnight with 

luxurious mulberry silk to protect, Shuti 

Silk Heatless Curler, £39, shutibyjk.com 

ECO 

GIFT 

Mylee is the go-to for gel 

polish and nail art lovers, 

Oh My Quad Gel Polish 

Quad, £24.99, mylee.co.uk 

Luxuriously soft cashmere 

with subtle detailing, 

Lofty Cashmere Batwing 

Sweater in Birch, £199, 

loopcashmere.co.uk 

Vegan, zero-waste crayons 

for lips, cheeks and eyes, 

Axiology Balmie Set, £26, 

contentbeautywellbeing.com 

The perfect heeled biker boots, Clemmy 

Boot, £59.95, heavenlyfeet.co.uk 


Help make Christmas 

Missions Possible 

Shop our seasonal range 

midlandsairambulance.com/shop 

Help make lifesaving air ambulance 

missions possible in your area. 

Text to donate 

MissionXmas £3 

to 70085* 

*texts cost £3 plus one standard rate message

Nurture their creativity with 39 flexible 

pieces in 7 unique shapes which can 

build hundreds of complex creations, 

Clixo Rainbow Pack, £54.99, clixo.com 

Split into two teams, strap on 

your monkey tail, warm up those 

thighs and compete in a series 

of silly monkey challenges! It’s 

Bananas, £24,99, amazon.co.uk 

Featuring 16 2-inch Battle Figures and 

eight accessories, this 24-day calendar 

holds a holiday-themed Pokémon 

toy for each day, Pokémon Holiday 

Calendar, £29.99, smythstoys.com 

Expect loud snorts 

and lots of laughter, 

Peppa Pig style, with 

the House Bath Playset 

from Toomies. £19.99, 

amazon.co.uk and Argos 

gifts for 

KIDS 

Count down to Christmas with 

these cute advent biscuits, or 

check out their lovely baking kits, 

Jar of Woodland Advent Biscuits, 

£45, honeywellbakes.com 

Made in the softest 

organic cotton they are 

made with our special 

flat inner seams for the 

sweetest of dreams, 

Nordic Forest Print 

Kids Pyjamas, £30, 

polarnopyret.co.uk 

A previous winner in 

the world’s best gin 

awards, this handcrafted 

Scandinavian organic gin 

makes a wonderful present, 

Herno Old Tom Gin, £50, 

waitrose.com 

Delicious hand-cooked crisps in 

a variety of flavours, available in a 

sharing tin to enhance freshness 

and crunch, 2 x 500g Sharing Tin, 

£30, twofarmers.co.uk 

gifts for 

FOODIES 

(& DRINKERS!) 

Choose from an all-red wine, all-white wine 

or the best-selling mixed advent calendar. 

Enjoy 24 mini bottles with a full-size bottle 

for you to enjoy on Christmas Day, Wine 

Advent Calendar, £89.99, virginwines.co.uk 

No Christmas Day feast is complete without these merry 

condiments, including Christmas Spice Chutney, which 

contains a host of festive spices, and our Cranberry, 

Port & Orange Sauce, which cuts through rich meats like 

turkey and goose with its tingling tartness. The Festive 

Four Gift Pack, £14.15, tracklements.co.uk 

The Bitter Truth has 

come up with these 

charming little miniature 

bottles of 5 of their best 

bitters. Cocktail Bitters 

Traveler’s Set, £14.95, 

masterofmalt.com 


Vrede | مالس | Мир | শাũতি | heddwch | Friede 

םולש | Síocháin | Paix حلص | Baké | Paz | 

Friður | | te rangimarie | Pokój | Udo 

สันติภาพ | Barış | Pace | Rauha | Maluhia | Cres 

| Taika | 

| Vrede | Amahoro | Lapè 

A PLACE for 

Friður | Vrede | مالس | Мир | শাũতি | heddwch 

حلص | Baké | Paz | םולש | | Friede 

PEACE & JOY 

םולש | Síocháin Pokój | Udo | | Paix 

Vrede | مالس | Мир | শাũতি | heddwch | Friede 

Celebrate Advent & Christmas 

at Your Cathedral 

םולש | Síocháin | Paix حلص | Baké | Paz | 

Friður | | te rangimarie | Pokój | Udo 

Come and experience the beauty and wonder of a traditional 

Advent & Christmas at your Cathedral. 

Sparkling lights, spectacular decorations, familiar carols and the tempting 

aroma of festive fayre is all waiting for you at Gloucester Cathedral this 

year, so gather your nearest and dearest and spend some time with us. 

Highlights include: 

Carols on the Hour I Life Size Knitivity I Festive Late-Night Openings 

Fun Family Trail I Magical Cloister Decorations I Carol & Crib Services 

Magnificent Christmas Trees I Gift Shop I Monk’s Kitchen Eatery 

www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk 

GlosCathedral GloucesterCathedral gloucestercathedral GloucesterCathedral 

Visit our website or follow us on social media for all you need to know about visiting us during Advent and Christmas. 

Keep checking back for updated information about services and events throughout the festive period.

Know someone who started a business 

in lockdown and could use some kit 

to elevate their work? Thermal printers 

don’t use any ink and can print onto different 

shaped labels. Munbyn are market leaders and 

their products are great quality, 4x6” USB Thermal 

Label Printer, £149.99, uk.munbyn.com 

gifts for 

THAT PERSON 

WITH 

EVERYTHING 

The Aerative 

portable dryer is 

lightweight, portable, 

and powerful, allowing 

users up to 8-hours of 

automatic drying. Safe 

for cabin or checked 

luggage, the Aerative is 

an ideal option for those 

who wish to dry clothes 

on the go, Aerative 

Portable Dryer £75, 

amazon.co.uk 

Marking its 175th anniversary, add some fizz 

to the festive season with a tipple of Searcys 

limited-edition Blanc De Blancs 

Champagne, £50 per bottle. 

£75 with flute set. 

searcys.co.uk/gifts 

Never lose a wallet again with 

this handy device - Apple Find 

My network locates your missing 

item Chipolo CARD Spot, 

£30, chipolo.net/en 

TOG creates beautifully crafted Japanese knives to last a 

lifetime. The ‘Bunka’ is a less well-known Japanese blade 

profile characterised by its cut-off diagonal tip. The 14cm ‘Mini’ 

version is extremely versatile, providing a smaller and more agile 

alternative to the Santoku, £240, togknives.com 

ECO 

GIFT 

Bookings 

now being 

taken for 

Christmas 

parties 

SHERBORNE CINEMA 

The Sherborne Cinema is Gloucester’s 

friendly traditional cinema for quality 

evening films and family films every 

weekend and holiday. 

Highlights include: 

Black Adam 

The Lost King 

Living 

SUPER 

VALUE! 

KIDS FILMS £5 

STANDARD 

ADMISSION £7 

• Fully ventilated 

• Generous leg room 

Full details at 

www.sherbornecinema.co.uk 

or phone 01452 520560 


MENS SANA IN CORPORE SANO 

A healthy mind in a healthy body 

YOGA CLASSES IN ANDOVERSFORD 

As an experienced yoga teacher with more than twenty years I am happy to offer yoga 

classes suitable for all levels. 

YOGA CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS 

YOGA CLASSES FOR ADVANCED 

RECOVERING FROM INJURIES 

YOGA IN PREGNANCY 

POST DELIVERY RECOVERY 

SPECIAL YOGA CLASSES FOR DISABILITIES 

YOGA CLASSES FOCUSED ON SPORTS PEOPLE 

YOGA CLASSES FOR DETOX AND LOSING WEIGHT 

YOGA FOR STRESS MANAGEMENT 

All classes include: Asanas (postures), Pranayama (breathing 

techniques), Savasana (relaxation) and short Meditation. Come and join 

us in an intimate and relaxed atmosphere overlooking the park. 

I also offer personalised one to one private yoga coaching at your home 

for different purposes 

Everyone Welcome! 

Only 6 min. drive from Charlton Kings and with free parking. 

Pre-Booking essential. You only need to bring a yoga mat, socks, and a thin 

blanket to cover yourself for the final relaxation. 

For more info please contact 

M 

: 

NAZUNAYEO@GMAIL.COM | WHATSAPP 07490858775 

WWW.MENSANAINCORPORESANO.COM 


PROMOTIONAL BUSINESS FEATURE 

THE GREAT 

TASTE OF 

THE GREAT TASTE 

OF GLOUCESTERSHIRE 

Gloucestershire 

Made in Gloucestershire is a celebration 

of the best food and drink our county has 

MADE IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE IS A CELEBRATION OF THE BEST FOOD AND DRINK OUR 

COUNTY HAS TO OFFER AND THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT... 

to offer and the people who make it. 

We’re here to showcase the pride, the passion and the 

craftsmanship that goes into each and every bottle, can, 

packet We’re and here plate. to showcase Through the this pride, initiative, the passion we’re and putting the scheme are fully funded, so food and drink producers 

local craftsmanship businesses that in the goes spotlight, into each so and you every can bottle, get a can, real Who can join: 

packet can join for free. As a member, you’ll be able to display 

taste and of plate. Gloucestershire Through this initiative, – whether we’re you’re putting a local resident businesses of the Made in Gloucestershire logo on your products and 

our in brilliant the spotlight, county so or you one can of get the To be eligible for membership, you must have a Gloucestershire 

a real millions taste of Gloucestershire 

tourists we website, and you’ll receive a directory listing with links to 

welcome – whether every you’re year. a resident of our brilliant county or one of the 

postcode, and your final food or drink product must be 

your social media channels and website. 

millions of tourists we welcome every year. 

produced in Gloucestershire. If your business is part of a chain 

We want everyone to support local, not just this 

To 

or 

be 

franchise, 

eligible 

the 

for 

original 

membership, 

outlet would 

you 

need 

must 

to 

have 

have 

a 

been based 

Christmas, in Gloucestershire. 

Join but Made all year in Gloucestershire 

round. With world-class producers Gloucestershire postcode, and your final food or drink 

on your doorstep, you can feel good by backing small, product must be produced in Gloucestershire. If your 

independent The first two businesses years of the Made whilst in experiencing Gloucestershire the scheme very are fully business How is to part join: of a chain or franchise, the original outlet 

best funded, our county so food has and to drink offer. producers can join for free. 

would need to have been based in Gloucestershire. 

If that sounds like your business, and you’d like to become a 

As a member, you’ll be able to display the Made in Gloucestershire How member to join: of Made in Gloucestershire, 

Visit logo madeingloucestershire.com on your products and website, to and find you’ll a local receive business a directory Visit: visit: madeingloucestershire.com/become-a-member or 

you’ll listing love. with links to your social media channels and website. contact: or contact: madeinglos@gfirstlep.com. 

MEET OUR NEW MEMBERS 

Join Made in Gloucestershire 

The first two years of the Made in Gloucestershire 

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL MEMBERS 

Made in Gloucestershire is powered by GFirst LEP - Gloucestershire’s Local Enterprise Partnership. BUSINESSINNOVATIONMAG.CO.UK 02

Putting Girls First 

GSA Schools Create Happy, Well-Rounded, Confident Women 

The facts are that girls’ schools are 

crucial to achieving gender equality; 

they level the playing field for girls and 

consistently campaign for the benefit of 

girls and women, and always have. 

Looking At Women’s Lives Now 

In 2022 we are still five generations 

away from achieving gender parity 

at current rates of change. Whether 

deliberate or not gender bias still 

affects women’s life opportunities and 

ambitions. This has nothing to do with 

the innate talents and skills of girls 

and women of course; The Peterson 

Institute’s largest ever international 

survey of 92 countries found that 

companies with 30% more women 

at the top (at C-suite level) saw a 15 

percent increase in profitability in 

business. 

The Power of Girls’ Schools 

A modern girls-only education is vital 

to help girls achieve their full potential. 

Our schools put their ambitions firmly 

the centre. It’s at the heart of all we do. 

The Facts About Girls in Girls’ Schools 

In all girls’ environments: 

• Girls in classrooms are more likely 

to pursue ambitious educational 

goals 

• Girls excel athletically and have 

greater chances for leadership roles 

• Girls achieve a disproportionately 

large share of the top exam grades 

in the UK 

• Internationally educating girls is 

life changing, lifting people out of 

poverty, growing economies and 

saving lives 

Whereas: 

• Girls working alongside high 

achieving boys set their education 

goals lower, lack confidence in their 

abilities, and do less well in science 

and maths in contrast to girls in 

girls’ schools. 

• Girls get less teaching time in co-ed 

schools because generally teachers 

interact with boys more often in the 

classroom by a margin of 10 to 30 

percent 

Donna Stevens, GSA CEO: “Our mission 

at GSA is help our pupils create the world 

as it should be - a place where every 

girl can achieve and lead. An all- girls 

education gifts every girl with the skills 

and appetite to recognise her full talents 

and realise a brilliant life.” 

“The world should be a place where every girl can 

learn and lead. To achieve this we must ensure our 

economies, societies and education systems work for 

girls, not against them.” 

Malala Yousafazi 

GSA Alumna, Edgbaston High School 


THE BENEFITS OF 

AN ALL-GIRLS 

EDUCATION 

Malvern St James is now the 

only all-through girls’ school in 

Worcestershire, educating girls from 3 

through to 18... 

There are many benefits to girls-only education, and that’s why 

we see exceptional exam results year on year. Our pupils go on 

to the most prestigious universities and competitive courses 

in the country, as well as taking up highly prized degree-level 

apprenticeships. We are proud that a well above average 

proportion of our pupils study STEM (Science, Technology, 

Engineering and Maths) at A Level, with over 50% typically 

going on to study these subjects at university. We put this down 

to inspiring teaching, small class sizes, exceptional pastoral care 

and a real focus on each girl as an individual. 

In an all-girls’ school there is no gender stereotyping, and so 

pupils feel free to choose from a wide breadth of subjects. 

Teachers can specialise in teaching girls in a way which suits 

them. Pastoral care can be built around their requirements, and 

all of the teachers and house staff at MSJ are experts in their 

fields. 

Our 

inspiration 

is you 

A well-rounded education is about far more than achieving a 

string of A* grades, and so girls are encouraged to get involved 

in activities that develop soft skills such as collaboration, 

creativity and problem solving. Clubs include Drama, Debating, 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

01684 892288 

www.malvernstjames.co.uk 

Young Enterprise, Engineering, Football, Music, Medicine and 

Cricket are on offer. There is a focus on forward-thinking careers 

advice and mentoring which encourages girls to aspire and 

achieve. 

MSJ girls are able to tap into a network of alumnae who work 

in a diverse range of careers all over the world and share their 

knowledge with the next generation of women. 

Malvern St James has a generous means-tested bursary 

scheme in place, whereby families can obtain financial 

assistance towards fees. We help over one quarter of pupils in 

this way. There is also one particular bursary which provides a 

fully funded place in Sixth Form. Please do talk to us about how 

we might be able to help you. 

MSJ is a community of confident, capable young women who 

will be the change-makers of the future. 

01684 892288 

www.malvernstjames.co.uk 

OPEN MORNING 

WEDNESDAY 16 TH NOVEMBER AT 10AM 

A leading independent day and boarding school for girls 

aged 3-18, where pupils are inspired to explore who they are, 

be ambitious, free thinking and resilient, with their individual 

passions and interests put at the heart of learning 

Malvern St James is a leading independent day 

and boarding school for girls aged 3-18, where pupils 

are inspired to explore who they are, be ambitious, 

free thinking and resilient, with their individual 

passions and interests put at the heart of learning. 

>50% 

choose to study STEM 

subjects at university 

>10 

Scholarships & Awards 

for ages 11+ 13+ & 16+ 

100+ 

extra-curricular activities 

to choose from 

70% 

of MSJ leavers study at 

Russell Group universities 

A SUNDAY TIMES TOP 10 WEST MIDLANDS INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 2022 

OPEN MORNING 

JOIN US SATURDAY 8 OCTOBER 2022

MG4 EV 

ALL ELECTRIC 

HATCHBACK 

Motoring journalist Sue Cooke test 

drives the MG4 EV all electric hatchback 

The MG automotive brand provokes fond memories of my youth 

when I owned a little red MGB roadster. MG plans a new all 

electric sports car in 2024, but in the meantime, MG has entered 

a new sector of the market, which it has never been in before – 

the all electric C segment. 

The MG4 EV, is a strikingly designed fully electric hatchback. 

There are six colours to choose from. I road tested the model 

painted in a gorgeous Holborn blue. 

In the cabin there is little difference to driving a traditional car. 

The driver slides behind the wheel and presses the brake pedal. 

Engage the rotary gear selector and automatically the vehicle 

goes into ‘Ready’ mode in complete silence. 

Standard hi tech features include a wireless charging tray, a 

10.25” colour touchscreen with Apple CarPIayTM and Android 

AutoTM and iSMART app connectivity. Advanced MG Pilot 

safety features include traffic signs recognition and lane 

departure warning. The driver assistance systems have useful 

voice control. If you have ever left your car in a multi storey 

and promptly forgot which floor it is on, then you will much 

appreciate the phone app which will find your MG for you! 

Using an adaptor, you can even boil a kettle using the battery 

that powers the car. There are five Drive modes including a snow 

mode. 

The MG4 EV entry level is the SE with the standard 51kWh 

battery. Using a rapid charger, the charge to 80% takes 39 

minutes with a top range of 218 miles. 0-62mph is a quick 7.7 

seconds. The cost is from £25,995. 

The SE long range uses the 64kWh battery and will charge to 

80% in 35 minutes with an increased mileage range of 281 

miles. 0-62mph is 7.9 seconds. The cost is from £28,495. 

The Trophy long range battery will complete 270 miles and is 

recognisable as the car has changes to the exterior design 

which include a two tone roof and a very attractive Twin Aero 

Rear Spoiler with a gorgeous red patterned light bar and rear 

privacy glass. Equipment includes an upgraded MG Pilot 

system, with the inclusion of Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change 

Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Additionally, the interior is in 

leather with electric driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering 

wheel, a Bluetooth key, satellite navigation, a 360 degree 

camera, and an upgraded MG iSmart system compatible with 

live services. The cost is from £31,495. 

With a predicted high residual value of 64.6% and a seven year 

warranty, the MG4EV offers value for money. The new hatchback 

makes buying an all electric car more affordable and offers the 

spaciousness of an SUV with plenty of headroom and generous 

amounts of legroom, hi tech features, quick performance and a 

reasonable mileage range. 

The MG brand has grown by 75.9% and MG says it is the 

fastest growing manufacturer with 153 dealers in the UK, which 

number is expected to increase to 160 by the end of the year. 

Future models will use this new MSP platform architecture and 

an MG5 is promised in December. An MG4 EV with a larger 

battery of 77kWh dual motor powertrain and an extended range 

up to 329 miles, will even include a ‘Launch Control’ button! 

My little red sports car was lots of fun, but it couldn’t boil a 

kettle! 

Facts at a Glance 

Model: MG 4 EV all electric 

Price: from £25,995 for SE standard 

Power: 51 kWh battery 

Performance: 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds and on to a top 

speed of 100 mph 

CO2 emissions: zero 

Combined Range: 218 miles (WLTP) rapid charge to 80% in 

39 mins 


All-New MG4 EV 

The first fully-electric hatchback 

from MG now available at Baylis MG Gloucester 

MG4 Hatchback 125Kw SE EV 5DR Auto 

Representative Example^ 

48 Monthly Payments £258.72 

Customer Deposit £3,860.00 

Benefit from up to 3 years 

free servicing & 3 years road 

side assistance * 

• With up to 281 miles* of electric range 

and two battery options 

• Standard features include a 10.25” 

colour touchscreen 

• Apple CarPIayTM and Android AutoTM 

• iSMART app connectivity 

• MG Pilot suite of driver 

assistance systems 

Cash Price £25,995.00 

Amount of Credit £5,160.56 

Interest Charges £4,635.00 

GMFV (Optional Final Payment) £14,877.00 

Total Amount Payable £31,155.56 

Interest Rate (Fixed for the 

duration of the agreement) 

Representative 

3.62% 

7.0%APR 

Annual mileage, based on 6,000 miles per annum 

Excess mileage charged at 14.9 pence per mile 

(+VAT) for the first 5000 miles and at twice that 

rate thereafter 

*Range applied to All-New MG4 EV SE Long Range with the 64kWh battery from a single charge don’t he WLTP combined cycle: 

Combined Range 281 miles (450 km): City Range: 360 miles (579 km); Combined Driving Efficiency: 3.8 miles/kWh (16.0 kWh/100km). 

The 7 year warranty period commences on the date of first registration, for more information please visit 

www.baylismg.co.uk/service-parts/warranty/ 

# 

Baylis (Gloucester) Ltd is a credit broker and not a lender. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Age 18+. Guarantee/ 

indemnity may be required. You will not own the vehicle until all repayments are made. Annual mileage, based on 6,000 miles per 

annum. Excess mileage charged at 14.9 pence per mile (+VAT) for the first 5000 miles and at twice that rate thereafter. Finance 

provided by MG Motor Financial Services, RH1 1SR. ^Price correct as of 4/10/2022. 

Baylis MG 

Cole Avenue, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL2 5ER 

01452 509419 

www.baylismg.co.uk

JOHNSONS VOLVO 

V90 Cross Country Mild Hybrid 

Crafted for comfort. Built for adventure. 

Experience the iconic plug-in hybrid estate with Google built in. 

An elegant escape for today. A drive with tomorrow in mind. 

CONTACT US TO ARRANGE YOUR TEST DRIVE 

Johnsons Volvo 

Cole Avenue, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL2 5ER 

Tel: 01452 525 291 

www.johnsonscars.co.uk/volvo/ 

Official fuel consumption and CO₂ figures for the Volvo MY23 V90 Cross Country, 

in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Combined 34.9. WLTP CO₂ emissions 184g/km. 

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption, CO₂ and equivalent electric range figures with other cars tested to the 

same technical procedures. Figures shown include battery and fuel powertrains where applicable. These figures may not reflect real-life driving results, 

which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. 

Johnsons Cars Ltd, trading as Johnsons Cars, are a credit broker not a lender. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected 

providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction. For questions about commission, speak to your retailer.

VOLVO V90 

CROSS COUNTRY ESTATE 

Motoring Journalist Sue Cooke test drives the excellent 

all-rounder Volvo V90 cross country estate... 

I’m not a ‘fan’ of air conditioning, 

particularly those in cars which are 

probably rarely cleaned. However, this 

week I was driving the Volvo V90 on a 

long journey and was extremely grateful 

for the Advanced Air Cleaner, newly 

introduced to the 60 and 90 models. 

The technology is certified to remove up 

to 99.9 per cent of grass, tree and weed 

pollen allergens from incoming air and 

is also highly effective against airborne 

viruses. 

As well as being able to breathe cleaner 

air on my long driving journey, the 

large premium estate has a host of 

other innovative technology. As the 

very wet season starts, all wheel drive, 

extra ground clearance and a host of 

sophisticated electronic traction aids 

make for a safer journey in a genuine 

off-roader. 

The Swedish company is well known for 

cars which are safe, offering strength 

and durability and the V90 is now 

equipped with the Advanced Driver 

Assistance system which has an array of 

radars, cameras and ultrasonic sensors. 

The company’s long-held vision is that 

no one should be killed or seriously 

injured in a new Volvo. 

And while there is a host of technology, 

it is all contained in a minimalist interior 

which with generous proportions and 

large windows is airy and spacious. 

As I slid behind the steering wheel, I 

experienced the comfortable leather 

faced seating. New details on the 

dashboard and instrument panel, 

include a 12.3-inch progressive driver 

display. There is an Android powered 

infotainment system which I found 

simple to flip through and to access the 

app I needed. And if not, there is always 

the offer of hands-free help from the 

Google Assistant. 

Pilot Assist is Volvo’s major step toward 

autonomous driving. Without human 

interface, using radar and a camera, it 

controls the steering (up to 80 mph) to 

keep the car within lane markings, and 

works with the adaptive cruise control to 

keep at the desired cruising speed or at 

a set distance from any vehicle in front. 

It accelerates and brakes with the flow 

of traffic, right down to a standstill. 

There aren’t many estate cars on the 

road but if practicality and space are 

the priority, then this estate has an 

enormous luggage space. I did have to 

clamber into the boot to retrieve a tin 

that had rolled to the back. Then I found 

the compartment divider which will 

section off a smaller part of the boot and 

has many very useful bag hooks. There 

is a wide and low boot opening to make 

loading easy and a standard powered 

tailgate. 

A range of Drive-E powertrains include 

a plug in hybrid and mild hybrid, petrol 

and diesel. I road tested the 2 litre 

petrol with an amazing 250hp and with a 

surprising roar of acceleration the estate 

will reach 62mph in 7.4 seconds. 

Volvo describes the V90 Cross Country 

as an all-rounder. I drove the estate 

on specified winding forest tracks and 

watery crossings and it is very capable 

off road. The car will also adapt its 

flexible suspension and innovative 

technology to provide a comfortable 

long distance motorway journey and 

when urban driving safety for both driver 

and pedestrians is assured. 

Facts at a Glance 

Model: Volvo V90 Cross Country estate 

AWD automatic 

Price: £60,585 otr including options 

Engine: B5 petrol – 250hp 

Performance: 0-62mph in 7.4 seconds 

and on to a top speed of 112mph 

CO2 emissions: 177-193 g/km (WLTP) 

Combined fuel consumption: 

33.2-36.2mpg (WLTP) 


TIME TO SPA 

Spa treatments have become one of the most 

common ways for people to take care of their 

bodies. It works perfect for taking care of both 

physical and mental health. 

Modern life means beating deadlines, virtual home offices, 

and information overload from multiple social media sites, not 

to mention keeping on top of household chores. Your current 

lifestyle is likely bombarding you with stressors that impact not 

only your physical body but your mental health as well. 

Trying to juggle so many demands can leave your body and 

mind stuck in fight or flight response. This translates into 

problems, such as not being able to concentrate, being unable 

to sleep, and feeling anxious and depressed. These mental 

health issues, left unchecked, attempt to get your attention by 

manifesting themselves in more physical ways, including muscle 

pain and inflammation, heart disease, and other chronic health 

issues. 

In this environment, it is essential to give your mind and mody 

time and space to recharge. Spa therapy can offer you an 

enjoyable way to release accumulated stress from your body 

and reap the benefits that relaxation can provide as a part of 

your healthy lifestyle. 

During ancient Roman times, spa therapy was a water-based 

therapy reserved for royalty to provide physical and spiritual 

healing. Today’s modern spa therapy includes not only waterbased 

therapies, but also various types of massage therapy, 

including Thai, deep tissue, and stone massage, facials, body 

treatments, and more. 

The purpose of a spa remains the same—to provide a space 

where you can go to relax your body and your mind. Spa 

therapy provides physical, mental, and spiritual healing crucial in 

maintaining a healthy lifestyle and promoting longevity. 

Spa therapy can also improve circulation, reduce inflammation 

in the body, and enhance the body’s autoimmune response. 

Additionally, going to a spa to relax and be pampered can 

improve your self-esteem and improve mental clarity. 

We need to start viewing self care as an essential part of our 

whole body health - not just the occasional birthday treat. If you 

are feeling tired, sore, anxious or stressed, chances are a day at 

the spa is exactly what you need to lift your spirits and reset. 

THE 

GREENWAY 

HOTEL AND SPA 

Christmas in Cheltenham... 

Join us for fantastic festive dining throughout December, from 

traditional afternoon teas to spectacular lunch and dinner menus. 

Why not reset with a festive pampering treatment in our Elan Spa 

or book one of our Christmas experiences! 

CONTACT OUR TEAM TO BOOK TODAY ON 01242 862352 

THEGREENWAYHOTELANDSPA.COM | 01242 862352 | INFO@THEGREENWAY.CO.UK 

20 | 25_07_2022 www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

- 110x153.indd 1 13/07/2022 14:53

Archant advert Feb 2020.indd 1 29/09/2022 14:15:54 

WHERE TRANQUILLITY BEGINS... 

The Spa at Hatherley Manor in Gloucestershire is dedicated to natural 

well-being and creating a sense of peace and tranquillity. 

The Spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind, whether that’s in the 

swimming pool, vitality pool, state-of-the-art gymnasium, thermal suite, 

relaxation and treatment rooms or in the lounge and café area with 

champagne bar. 

SPA DAYS SPA BREAKS MEMBERSHIPS 

HATHERLEYMANOR.COM

BONFIRE delights 

Perfect sharing recipes to serve fire-side 

HOT DOGS WITH PICKLED CARROT 

AND SPICY MAYO 

Preparation time: 10 minutes 

Cooking time: 15 minutes 

Serves: 4 

INGREDIENTS 

2 tsp black sesame seeds (or a mixture of 

white and black) 

3 tbsp Cooks’ Ingredients Japanese Rice 

Vinegar 

1 tsp clear honey 

1⁄2 tsp toasted sesame oil 

300g carrots, scrubbed and julienned, 

shredded or grated 

4 Unearthed Bavarian Frankfurters 

3 tbsp mayonnaise 

1 tbsp Cooks’ Ingredients Gochujang 

Chilli Paste 

4 hot dog rolls 

METHOD 

Put the sesame seeds in a dry frying 

pan and toast over a medium-high 

heat, stirring from time to time, until 

fragrant; tip out of the pan and set aside. 

Meanwhile, mix the vinegar, honey, 

sesame oil and a large pinch of salt in 

a bowl and add the carrot; cover and 

chill in the fridge, allowing the mixture to 

quick-pickle until ready to serve. 

Heat a griddle pan over a medium-high 

heat and cook the frankfurters for 7-8 

minutes, turning regularly, until piping 

hot throughout. While they’re cooking, 

mix the mayonnaise and gochujang chilli 

paste in a small bowl; set aside. 

Split open the rolls and spread a little of 

the spicy mayo inside each one. Lift the 

carrot from its pickling liquor and arrange 

in the rolls, then top with the frankfurters. 

Drizzle over the remaining spicy mayo 

and sprinkle over the sesame seeds to 

finish. Serve any leftover carrot on the 

side. 

All recipes and images courtesy of 

Waitrose. You can find thousands more 

recipes at www.waitrose.com/recipes 

COOK’S TIP 

Gochujang (Korean chilli 

paste) makes a wonderful 

rub for meats, and is 

delicious in vegetable 

stews or bakes. It’s very 

spicy though, so use 

sparingly. 


CONCHIGLIE WITH MUSHROOMS AND SPINACH 



Serves: 4 

INGREDIENTS 

½ x 30g pack Cooks’ Ingredients Dried 

Porcini Mushrooms 

235g bag Ready-Washed Spinach 

300g De Cecco Conchiglie Rigate No 50 

pasta 

1 tbsp olive oil 

2 Echalion Shallots, finely diced 

250g Chestnut Mushrooms, wiped clean 

and sliced 

2 cloves garlic, crushed 

6 tbsp double cream 

60g Parmigiano Reggiano, coarsely 

grated 

METHOD 

Preheat the grill to high; put an oven shelf 

in the top third of the oven. Fill a large 

kettle with water and put it on to boil. Put 

the dried mushrooms in a heatproof bowl 

and cover with 300ml just-boiled water; 

set aside. Meanwhile, put the spinach 

in a large mixing bowl and pour over 

enough just-boiled water to wilt. Drain 

through a sieve then rinse under the cold 

tap. Squeeze out the excess liquid, then 

pat dry with kitchen paper and set aside. 

Bring a large saucepan of water to the 

boil and cook the pasta for 1 minute less 

than pack instructions. In a separate 

large, shallow casserole, heat the oil 

over a medium-high heat. Add the 

shallots, chestnut 

mushrooms, garlic and a pinch of salt. 

Cover with a lid and sweat for 5 minutes, 

stirring occasionally. Uncover and fry for 

another 5 minutes. 

Lift the dried mushrooms from the liquid 

and squeeze any excess liquid back into 

the bowl (reserve the liquid). Finely chop 

the soaked mushrooms and roughly chop 

the spinach, then stir into the casserole. 

Add 200ml mushroom soaking liquid 

(leaving out any sediment) and the cream. 

Drain the pasta and tip into the casserole 

along with 2⁄3 of the cheese. Season and 

stir together over the heat for 1 minute. 

Scatter over the remaining cheese and 

grill for 2-3 minutes until golden. Stand 

for 2 minutes before serving in bowls. 


CHILLI, BEEF AND BUTTERNUT STEW 

Preparation time: 20 minutes + standing 

Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes 

Serves: 4 

INGREDIENTS 

350g butternut squash, cut in 2cm cubes 

2 tbsp olive oil 

1 large Dried Ancho Chilli 

1 large red onion, finely chopped 

3 cloves garlic, crushed 

400g pack Waitrose Lean Diced British 

Beef Braising Steak 

1 heaped tbsp tomato purée 

1 tsp ground cumin 

½ tsp ground cinnamon 

400g can chopped tomatoes 

400g can kidney beans, drained and 

rinsed 

1 lime, juice of ½ and ½ cut into wedges 

METHOD 

Preheat the oven to 

220°C, gas mark 7. 

Toss the squash 

with 1 tbsp oil; 

season and 

spread 

out on a 

baking 

tray. 

Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway; 

set aside. Meanwhile, cut the stem off 

the dried chilli; shake out the seeds and 

discard. Tear the chilli into 3 or 4 pieces, 

put in a jug and cover with 300ml justboiled 

water from the kettle; set aside 

to soak. 

Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a large 

casserole dish over a medium-high 

heat, and fry the onion and garlic for 3-4 

minutes until starting to soften. Push 

the onion and garlic to one side and 

add the beef to the pan. Season, leave 

for a minute to sear, then stir with the 

onion and garlic and cook for another 

2-3 minutes until browned all over and 

cooked through. Stir in the tomato purée, 

cumin and cinnamon. 

Lift the chilli pieces from the soaking 

liquid and chop them very finely. Stir into 

the pan with the soaking liquid (avoiding 

any sediment at the bottom) and the 

canned tomatoes, then season. Lower 

the oven temperature to 160oC, gas 

mark 3. Cover the casserole dish and 

bake in the oven for 30 minutes. 

Uncover the pan, stir in the kidney 

beans and roasted squash, and bake, 

uncovered, for another 30 minutes. 

Leave to stand for 10 minutes, then stir 

in the lime juice. Serve with the lime 

wedges. Sliced avocado, soured cream 

and brown rice or tortillas are also great 

accompaniments, if liked. 

COOK’S TIP 

Dried Ancho chillies are a mellow, 

fruity variety used in Mexican cooking. 

If time is short when making this dish, 

use 350g Cook’s Ingredients diced 

sweet potato and butternut squash, in 

place of the squash 


CHAI SPICED 

APPLE CAKE 


Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Serves: 10 

INGREDIENTS 

175g unsalted butter, softened, 

plus extra for greasing 

7 cardamom pods, cracked open 

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon 

1 ½ tsp ground ginger 

½ tsp fine salt 

2 Waitrose Jazz Apples, peeled 

and cored 

150g light brown soft sugar 

3 Medium British Blacktail Free 

Range Eggs 

150g self-raising flour 

100g ground almonds 

¼ tsp vanilla bean paste 

1 tsp whole milk 

2½ tbsp icing sugar, sifted 

Cooks’ Ingredients Pretty Rose 

Petals, to decorate 

METHOD 

Preheat the oven to 160°C, gas 

mark 3; grease a 900g loaf tin and 

line with baking parchment. Shake 

the seeds out of the cardamom 

pods into a pestle and mortar. 

Grind to a powder, then mix with 

the cinnamon, ginger and salt; set 

aside. Finely slice 1⁄2 an apple, 

then dice the rest into 1cm cubes; 

set aside. 

Using electric beaters, cream 

together the butter and sugar in a 

large mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes 

until light and fluffy. One at a time, 

beat in the eggs, making sure each 

one is fully incorporated before 

adding the next. Use a spatula to 

stir in the flour, almonds and spice 

mix until evenly combined. 

Stir the diced apple into the 

mixture, then spoon into the tin. 

Smooth the top with the back of 

a spoon, then scatter over the 

sliced apple. Bake for 1 hour 10 

minutes-1 hour 15 minutes until 

risen and a skewer inserted into 

the centre of the cake comes out 

clean. Leave to cool in the tin for 

10 minutes, then transfer to a wire 

rack to cool completely. 

For the drizzle, mix the vanilla bean 

paste and milk into the icing sugar 

to make a thick, smooth paste. 

Drizzle over the cake and scatter 

with rose petals before serving. 

COOK’S TIP 

You can vary the spice mix in this 

cake. Try swapping the ginger 

for ground allspice or crushing a 

couple of cloves instead of grinding 

the cardamom seeds. 


FESTIVE 

Not a fan of traditional Christmas pudding or 

Fancies 

feel like shaking it up this year? Here are some 

amazing desserts that are every bit as festive... 

STICKY DATE PUDDINGS 



Serves: 8 

INGREDIENTS 

175g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra 

for greasing 

80g light brown muscovado sugar 

6 Waitrose Medjool Dates, pitted and 

finely chopped 

3 British Blacktail Free Range Medium 

Eggs 

2 tbsp treacle 

175g self-raising flour 

1 tsp baking powder 

1 heaped tsp mixed spice 

½ tsp fine sea salt 

2 tbsp whole milk 

STICKY DATE SAUCE 

40g unsalted butter 

3 Waitrose Medjool Dates, pitted and 

finely chopped 

125g light brown muscovado sugar 

250ml double cream, plus extra to serve 

METHOD 

For the puddings, preheat the oven 

to 180ºC, gas mark 4. Lightly grease 

8 mini pudding moulds (each about 

175ml in volume), put a small circle 

of baking parchment in the base of 

each, then sit them in a large, deep-sided 

roasting tin. 

Boil the kettle. In a large bowl, using 

electric beaters, cream the butter, sugar 

and dates for 2-3 minutes until light 

and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and then the 

treacle. Lightly beat in the flour, baking 

powder, mixed spice and salt, then 

loosen the mixture with the milk. Divide 

the mixture evenly between the moulds; 

it should fill them about halfway. 

Pour a kettle of just-boiled water into 

the roasting tin so the water sits about 

halfway up the outside of the moulds. 

Cover the top 

of the 

tin with 3 layers of large pleated sheets 

of tin foil, ensuring the foil is tightly 

sealed around the edges (you don’t want 

steam to escape as the puddings won’t 

rise). Bake for 30 minutes until risen and 

springy. 

To make the sauce, put the butter, dates 

and sugar in a saucepan and set over 

a low heat. Add a pinch of salt and 

stir occasionally until the sugar has 

dissolved. Stir in the double cream until 

combined; keep warm. 

Remove the foil and carefully release the 

side of the puddings from the moulds 

using a small, sharp knife. Invert onto 

plates and pour over the sticky date 

sauce, adding a little extra whipped 

cream, if liked. 

All recipes and images courtesy of 

Waitrose. You can find thousands more 

recipes at www.waitrose.com/recipes 


CHOCOLATE 

GINGER 

TRUFFLES 

Preparation time: 25 minutes + 

overnight chilling 


Makes: about 20 

INGREDIENTS 

180g bar Belgian dark chocolate 

(54% cocoa) 

180ml double cream 


2 ½ tbsp The King’s Ginger 

liqueur 

30g crystallised ginger, very finely 

chopped (optional) 

2-3 tbsp cocoa powder 

Cooks’ Ingredients Gold Lustre 

Spray, to decorate 

METHOD 

Chop the chocolate as finely as 

you can and put in a large bowl. 

Put 130ml cream and the butter 

in a saucepan and heat until the 

butter has melted and the mixture 

is at steaming point. Pour over the 

chocolate and leave for 2 minutes. 

Stir to combine the chocolate and 

cream until all the chocolate is 

melted. Stir in the remaining 50ml 

cream, a pinch of fine salt and the 

liqueur. Pour into a large, shallow 

container and, if using, scatter the 

crystallised ginger on top. Cover 

and chill for at least 6 hours, but 

ideally overnight. 

Sift the cocoa powder onto a 

plate. Use a tablespoon to scoop 

balls of the truffle mixture and 

roll them in your hands to shape 

them. Roll in the cocoa powder, 

then arrange on a plate. Continue 

rolling until all the mixture has 

been used (pop it in the fridge if 

it softens too much), then spray 

with the gold lustre and chill for 

at least 30 minutes until ready to 

serve. These will keep in the fridge 

for up to 3 days. 

COOK’S TIP 

If you’re having a gathering, 

these chocolate truffles look 

pretty served individually in mini 

cupcake cases. 


CHOCOLATE & 

HAZELNUT 

SNOWFLAKE 

Preparation 

time: 25 

minutes + 

chilling 

Cooking time: 35 

minutes 

Serves: 8 

INGREDIENTS 

2 x 320g packs Jus-Rol Puff Pastry 

Sheet 

100g hazelnut chocolate spread 

50g chopped roasted hazelnuts 

1 British Blacktail Free Range Medium 

Egg, lightly beaten 

Icing sugar, for dusting 

METHOD 

Unroll both of the pastry sheets and 

cut a 20-22cm circle from each (save 

the offcuts to make tarts, cheese twists 

or palmiers). Put one pastry circle on a 

sheet of baking parchment and cover 

one side evenly with hazelnut chocolate 

spread. Sprinkle over ½ the hazelnuts, 

leaving a 1cm border around the edge. 

Put the second pastry circle on top, 

pressing 

lightly around 

the border to seal. 

Put the lid of a small jar (about 

4-5cm in diameter) in the centre of 

the pastry (so you don’t cut through it), 

then use a sharp knife to cut the pastry 

into quarters (excluding the central 

circle). Cut down the centre of each 

quarter and then repeat. You should have 

16 equal strips of pastry attached to the 

centre. 

Take 2 strips next to each other and twist 

them away from each other 3 times. 

Press the ends together in a point, to 

seal. Repeat all the way around the 

circle – you should now have 8 snowflake 

‘arms’. Slide the snowflake, on its 

parchment, 

onto a baking 

sheet; chill for 

30 minutes. 4 

Preheat the oven 

to 200ºC, gas 

mark 6. 

Lightly brush the 

egg all over the top of 

the snowflake. Bake for 30-35 

minutes until golden and puffed up. Allow 

to cool, then dust with icing sugar and 

sprinkle over the remaining hazelnuts to 

serve. 

COOK’S TIP 

If at any point while making the 

snowflake the pastry becomes 

soft or difficult to work with, put 

it in the fridge for 15 minutes to 

cool and firm up. 


SEVILLE 

ORANGE TART 

Prepare: 20 minutes + chilling 

Serves: 8 

INGREDIENTS 

180ml double cream 

180g condensed milk 

2 Cooks’ Ingredients Marmalade 

Oranges, very finely grated zest of 11/2, 

pared zest strands of 1⁄2, plus 100ml 

juice (top up with regular orange juice if 

needed) 

3 tbsp lime juice (from 1-2 limes) 

215g Cooks’ Ingredients Sweet Pastry 

Case 

METHOD 

Put the double cream and condensed 

milk in a large mixing bowl. Add the 

very finely grated zest, all the orange 

juice and all the lime juice. Use a hand 

whisk to whisk the mixture together for 2 

minutes until slightly thick. 

Pour the mixture into the pastry case, 

then scatter with the remaining pared 

zest. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours 

before serving, until the filling has set. 

Use any extra cream to drizzle over, if 

liked. 

TREE SURGERY 

& Ready to Burn Logs 

From 

SATURDAY 

26TH NOVEMBER 

ONWARDS 

Mon - Thurs: 

Fri & Sat: 

Sun: 

8am - 6pm 

8am - 7pm 

8am - 5pm 


VEGAN CHOCOLATE & 

COCONUT CARAMEL POTS 

Preparation time: 30 minutes + chilling 


Makes: 4 

INGREDIENTS 

200ml pouch coconut milk 

2 pitted medjool dates, roughly chopped 

1 tsp vanilla bean paste 

100g vegan dark chocolate (such as Raw 

Halo Dark 85%), finely chopped 

250ml pack Oatly Whippable Creamy Oat 

1 tbsp maple syrup 

Raw vegan cacao powder, for dusting 

METHOD 

Put the coconut milk, dates and vanilla 

in a blender and whizz until smooth. Tip 

into a small pan and bring to the boil. 

Simmer vigorously, stirring regularly for 

10 minutes until thick and reduced by 

half. Divide between 4 small glasses and 

set aside to cool, then cover and chill for 

at least 1 hour. 

When the coconut caramel has chilled, 

put the chocolate in a medium mixing 

bowl. In a small pan, heat 100ml 

whippable creamy oat and the maple 

syrup to just before boiling. Take off the 

heat and pour over the chocolate in the 

bowl. Leave to melt for 1 minute, then stir 

until smooth. 

Put the remaining 150ml whippable 

creamy oat in another mixing bowl and 

use electric beaters to whisk to soft 

peaks. Set aside 2 tbsp to garnish, then 

fold the rest into the melted chocolate. 

Spoon into the glasses on top of the 

coconut caramel. Serve with a dollop 

of the whipped creamy oat and a 

dusting of cacao. These are best served 

immediately, but can be covered and 

chilled for up to 30 minutes. 

COOK’S TIP 

Make a double batch of the 

caramel, then cover and store 

in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

It’s particularly delicious 

spooned over baked apples. 


IRISH 

CREAM 

FUDGE 

Preparation time: 20 minutes + 

cooling + chilling 


Makes: Makes about 30 pieces 

MAKES A 

LOVELY 

GIFT 

INGREDIENTS 

397g can condensed milk 

150ml whole milk 

425g light brown soft sugar 


100ml Baileys The Original Irish 

Cream 

Large pinch of salt 

100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa 

solids), chopped 

METHOD 

Line a 20cm x 20cm baking tin 

with parchment. Put the milks, 

sugar and butter in a large, 

nonstick saucepan and warm 

over a medium heat, stirring 

occasionally, until the sugar 

has dissolved. Put a sugar 

thermometer in the pan and turn 

up the heat a little, bringing the 

mixture to a moderate bubble. 

Stir continuously until the 

thermometer reaches 113-115ºC 

or ‘soft-ball stage’ (this should 

take about 15 minutes). Take the 

pan off the heat and set aside for 

5 minutes. 

Stir the Irish cream and salt into 

the mixture. Using electric beaters 

set to a medium speed, beat for 

about 10 minutes until you have 

a thick mixture that’s starting to 

come away from the sides of the 

pan. (You can also do this with a 

wooden spoon, beating for about 

15 minutes.) Tip the mixture into 

the lined tin, spreading it out 

evenly. Cool to room temperature, 

then cover and chill for 1 hour. 

Melt the chocolate in a bowl set 

over a pan of gently simmering 

water, stirring until smooth. 

Meanwhile, put a large sheet of 

baking parchment on the work 

surface. Turn out the fudge and 

trim the edges to neaten, then cut 

into squares about 3cm x 3cm. 

Dip ½ of each square of fudge in 

the chocolate. Leave to set on the 

parchment, chilling again briefly 

if needed. 


haus 

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DESIGN DILEMMAS... 

Thinking about buying a kitchen from an online retailer but 

concerned about the process? We spoke to Dawn Filkins, Head 

of Creative at Smile Kitchens about their top three objections and 

how they seek to solve them... 

VIRTUAL SHOWROOM: 

HASSLE-FREE 

When shopping for kitchens in high 

street stores, products are often more 

expensive due to the additional costs that 

come with running a showroom. Instead, 

consumers who consider shopping from 

a company that operates entirely digitally 

can save money from the outset. 

We were founded as an online-only 

business, without showrooms, as we 

didn’t want to pass on the cost of 

overhead expenses to our customers. 

We work hard to make sure that our 

customers get all the benefits of a 

showroom, without the inconvenience 

of inflated prices. We do this by sending 

out samples that allow customers to 

see how the colours and finishes work 

in the space and appreciate the quality 

of our products. We also invest deeply 

in animations that actually show how 

the kitchens are going to look in the real 

space and show details such as how pullout 

larders work. By providing detailed 

design work our customers can see how 

everything fits together in a wider space. 

Plus, we don’t take payment until after 

the kitchen has been delivered so that 

customers can see the product in their 

own home before they pay a penny. 

Another benefit of being virtual is that 

customers no longer need to travel to 

a showroom and can instead design 

their kitchen from the comfort of their 

own home. Your designer can be there 

when you need them, instead of being 

restricted by showroom opening times. 

FINDING YOUR 

FITTER: CONVENIENT 

Going directly to the fitter means that the 

customer can often save money whilst 

finding someone local to them so that 

they aren’t paying extra for travel costs. 

We are, however, always on hand to give 

advice on ‘what to look for in a fitter’ and 

answer questions. 

As well as sending out detailed installation 

packs where everything is explained 

clearly, we will also speak to your fitter 

before, during and after the installation to 

make sure that everything goes smoothly. 

We also do no-quibble corrections 

so if anything does go wrong on the 

installation, we will send out replacement 

items free of charge, which we find that 

fitters love. We also have a database of 

fitters, which we can recommend. 

YOUNG COMPANY: 

INNOVATIVE 

Although we are a fast-growing company, 

we do understand that we are relatively 

young in comparison to many of our 

competitors. However, this does not 

mean that we’re inexperienced. Our team 

aren’t new to the industry and we have 

made sure to handpick the best there is 

to offer you in terms of design expertise, 

we employ designers not sales people 

like most of the bigger brands do. 

We want to ensure that customers are 

confident when working with us. Our 

10-year guarantee and completely 

free design service are all there to help 

customers feel at ease when starting 

their journey with us. We are also 

continually looking for ways in which 

we can improve, making sure to ask all 

our customers for continuous feedback 

throughout the process which is reflected 

in our 4.9 Trustpilot score. 

No matter where you find yourself in 

your project, our team of designers are 

on hand to walk you through the whole 

process and provide you with a free, 

no-obligation design and quote. Simply 

fill in the form at smilekitchens.com/ 

contact-us to request a call back or call 

us on 0161 509 1010. 


BE OUR 

‘Tis (nearly) the season for hosting visitors - we’ve got top 

Guest 

tips on creating a sumptuous guest bedroom, plus tips to 

improve all areas of the home 

Left: Caitlin Marie Design, 

caitlinmariedesign.com 

Above: Annabel Grimshaw 

Interior Design (image from Chris 

Snook), annabelgrimshaw.com 

THE BEDROOM 

DON’T: WORRY IF YOU 

HAVEN’T GOT LOTS OF 

SPACE 

Ultimately you have to work with what 

you’ve got - in the last 2 years, many of 

us have seen our guest rooms overhauled 

to become home offices. If you’ve 

ditched the bed don’t worry - how about 

adding an attractive sofa bed that you 

can actually use the rest of the time as a 

break out area from your desk. 

DO: PROVIDE BASIC 

AMENITIES 

The more things you can put in the room 

to make their stay easier, without having 

to ask you for everything, the more 

relaxed everyone will feel. A mirror is 

important, as are fresh towels, tissues, 

and perhaps even a hair dryer. A bedside 

carafe and some glasses means they can 

help themselves to water too. 

DO: INVEST IN GOOD 

WINDOW TREATMENTS 

As you might have never slept in this 

space, you might not know how light 

behaves or how effective the current 

window treatments are for blocking out 

light. For a really luxurious look, pair 

blackout blinds or shutters with thick, 

decorative drapery. Shutters give a lovely 

secure feel to a space and really finish 

the room. 

DON’T: SETTLE FOR A 

LUMPY MATTRESS 

The same goes for the mattress as the 

window treatments - spend a night in the 

room and see if the bed is up to scratch. 

DO: PROVIDE GOOD 

LIGHTING 

Multi-level lighting is key for making a 

space feel cosy - make sure there are 

two bedside lamps and then another 

light source in the space, such as a 

standing lamp in the corner or a lamp on 

a dressing table 

DON’T: SKIMP ON THE 

BED LINENS 

Good bed linen really is worth the money 

- and it tends to wash better too. Provide 

a good quality duvet and pillows, linens 

and some additional blankets if your 

guests feel the cold. 

DO: CREATE 

SOMEWHERE THEY CAN 

UNPACK 

We all know it’s a bit stressful trying to 

live out of a suitcase - allowing for some 

hanging space and a few drawers to 

unpack into, can really help guests keep 

on top of things whilst they’re with you. 

DO: MAKE IT SMELL 

LOVELY 

Kit the room out with either fresh flowers, 

a reed diffuser, or room sprays. Neom 

candles have range of wonderful relaxing 

scents, which can fragrance the room 

even when they are not lit (Complete 

Bliss Scented Candle, 3 Wick, £48). 

Pillow spray to help deep sleep is also a 

lovely touch to make the 

space feel 

homely. 


LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1985 

V 01242 621414 

M HELLO@UP-SOFAS.CO.UK 

UNIT 3 & 4, ISBOURNE 

BUSINESS PARK, 

WINCHCOMBE, 

CHELTENHAM, 

GLOUCESTERSHIRE, 

GL54 5NS 

SHOWROOM 

OPENING HOURS: 

MON-FRI: 9AM – 5.30PM 

SATURDAY: 9AM – 1PM 

SUNDAY: BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Skimmia japonica 

DON’T: BE A 

PERFECTIONIST 

If your guests were hoping for hotel 

standards, then that’s where they should 

have stayed. Just aim to make sure 

the space is clean, comfortable and 

functional, then relax - there’s enough to 

be worrying about in the festive season 

without adding high expectations on top 

of that. 

THE REST OF 

THE HOUSE 

DO: ASSESS YOUR KERB 

APPEAL 

We can all become a little immune to the 

scenes we see every day, so taking a bit 

of time to objectively assess how things 

look can be really helpful. Give the area a 

sweep and a clear out, check wall lights 

are working, that your doormat is in good 

condition, and that any glass has had a 

good clean. Clean the door itself too - it 

really does help things look more up and 

together. If your door is on its last legs, 

now is the time to get a new one ordered 

- as a bonus it could save you money on 

heating your home too. 

Then, really set off your door with a 

classic wreath - you could make your 

own to really make it tie in with the 

setting, or to your personal tastes - go 

ultra-traditional with orange slices 

and berries or something a bit more 

contemporary with feathers or dried 

grasses. 

DON’T: FORGET TO 

REPAIR DAMAGE 

Last summer was exceptionally hot and 

dry, resulting in lots of hairline cracks 

from the humidity in the air. These are 

easy to fine fill, sand and repaint - it’s a 

quick job but makes such a difference. 

DO: REFRESH YOUR 

PLANTERS 

There are lots of great options for you to 

add some winter colour to pots at the 

front of your home. The little bobbing 

heads of cyclamen are gorgeous, as 

is the structure from winter heather. 

Skimmia japonica is a super winter 

shrub - glossy leaved and just the right 

size for pots, when winter is over and the 

container display has come to an end, 

you could plant them out in the garden 

to grow on. They come in a variety of 

shades - covered in clusters of longlasting 

buds during autumn and winter 

which eventually open to delicate flowers 

in spring. 

DO: RESTOCK 

CUPBOARDS 

Make sure your guests know where 

tea and coffee are kept and that they 

can help themselves - this is especially 

important if your morning routine is 

different to theirs. Some mince pies or 

other freshly baked goods are a lovely 

treat, especially if your guests have 

travelled far to see you. 

DO: KEEP SPARES 

It’s a nice gesture to make sure there 

are spares for those commonly-used, 

and often forgotten, items - toothpaste 

and other travel-sized toiletries and a 

phone charger. It makes people feel more 

comfortable if they can be self sufficient, 

without having to constantly ask to 

borrow things. 


PROVIDE SEATING 

Think about where you are likely to 

congregate together and make sure 

there is enough seating to accommodate 

everyone at once. This might be at the 

kitchen table or the living room. Pouffes 

and ottomans make great occasional 

seating which can be tucked out the way 

when not in use. We love classic leather 

Moroccan designs, or storage ottomans 

which can be used for blanket storage. 


RELAX 

For most of us, Christmas affords some 

rare time to relax in the company of those 

we hold dearest. Don’t 

forget to enjoy the 

company of those 

you are hosting 

- and don’t 

sweat the 

small details 

- your guests 

are just happy 

to see you! 

A festive wreath creates 

a warm welcome 

Moroccan Leather Pouffe, £99, hauslife.co.uk 

Macedon Storage Ottoman 

£92.99, wayfair.co.uk 


FLOORING & INTERIORS 

SPECIAL OFFER 

01242 521661 

winnens.co.uk 

WINNENS CHELTENHAM SHOWROOM 

18 Neptune Business Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9FB 

PLEASE CALL OR BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE

PREPARE YOUR 

HOME FOR WINTER 

Taking on some basic maintenance can help 

prepare your home for winter as the changing 

weather conditions can cause costly damage. With 

a few easy steps you can be winter ready for the 

long, cold months ahead... 

1. SERVICE YOUR BOILER 

Your boiler should be serviced annually 

to make sure that it’s still safe to use and 

works efficiently. Ideally this should be 

done before the heating season. This 

will give you some time to make sure 

everything is still working before the days 

get too cold! 

There are other ways to ensure your 

central heating is efficient. Bleeding 

radiators, to release trapped air, is a DIY 

task. While power flushing, a job best left 

to the plumbers and heating engineers, 

can ensure a build up of sludge is 

removed from radiators. 

2. INSULATE YOUR LOFT SPACE 

If you haven’t already insulated this 

space, or you have poorly performing 

insulation that has slumped over time, 

tackling this project will quickly pay 

dividends over the colder months. 

3. CHECK YOUR GUTTERING 

An essential task when preparing your 

home for winter — look for leaves, moss 

and other debris and clear gutters and 

downpipes to prevent blockages in heavy 

rain and snow. 

Cracked, missing or damaged rainwater 

goods or brackets should ideally be 

replaced, too. Leaky rainwater goods, 

can, over a period of time lead to damp, 

so it’s important to make these cheap 

fixes now — rather than making costly 

remedial work at a later date. 

4. GET YOUR CHIMNEY SWEPT 

The winter weather can cause damage to 

your chimney, so the pre-winter months 

are a great time to get your chimney 

professionally swept. Sweeping will 

improve the efficiency of your chimney by 

ensuring any potential blockages, such 

as nests or a build up soot, are removed 

before you start using your open fire or 

log burning stove. 

5. INSULATE YOUR PIPES 

Insulating (or lagging) your pipes can 

reduce the loss of heating and also 

prevent them freezing and bursting. This 

is particularly important when plumbing 

is located in cold areas such as in 

uninsulated loft spaces and garages. 

Keep the heating at a low level (above 

4°C) even when you’re away from the 

property, as this will help maintain a 

consistent temperature around the pipes. 

Just in case of emergencies, know where 

your stopcock is to enable you to turn 

the cold water system off and limit further 

damage. The stopcock is usually located 

under your kitchen sink and normally 

looks like a tap/lever. 

6. MAKE SURE YOUR OIL TANK IS 

TOPPED UP 

If your property has an oil tank, make 

sure it’s topped up for winter. Doing so 

will help you avoid peak winter prices 

and make sure you don’t run out of oil 

through the colder months. 

7. GET YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE 

READY 

Making sure your garden is clear, clean 

and ready for winter is a good idea. 

Secure anything that could be swept 

away by the wind such as greenhouses, 

plant pots and wheelie bins. 

8. GET YOUR ROOF CHECKED 

Roof slates/tiles can become loose 

throughout the year and this could lead 

to leaks through the winter. It may be a 

good idea to get your roof inspected by 

a professional to make sure there are no 

areas that need fixing before the colder 

months. 

9. DRAUGHT PROOF WINDOWS, 

DOORS AND FLOORS 

With current energy prices rises, 

undertaking draught proofing measures 

can be a relatively simple and costeffective 

way of improving your home’s 

thermal performance. 

Measures include insulating loft hatches, 

adding draught proofing strips to doors, 

and blocking up unused chimneys. 

Some tasks can take minutes — others, 

such as insulating beneath timber 

suspended ground floors, are more 

invasive and will require considerably 

more work. 

10. MAKE SURE YOUR PROPERTY IS 

INSURED 

One of the most important things to 

consider when heading into winter is 

whether you have home insurance. The 

winter months bring darker nights which 

lead to higher crime rates, plus the UK 

weather obviously starts declining in the 

winter. Not only will most home insurers 

provide cover for things like theft, but 

also fire and flood too. 


FIREPLACE GALLERY 

FIRE & STOVES 

Whether your fi re is for warmth or a feature, 

traditional looking, modern or bespoke The 

Fireplace Gallery has a fi re to suit your home. 

With 2 large showrooms to visit for inspiration, and 

an experienced sales and installation team, we can 

supply and create exactly what you are looking for. 

• Gas Fires 

• Electric Fires 

• Woodburning & Multifuel Stoves 

• Mantle Pieces, Surrounds & Beams 

• Outdoor Fires & Firepits 

• Own Installation Team 

• Fire Servicing 

V 

CHELTENHAM SHOWROOM 

01242 680076 

Unit 18-19 Knightsbridge Business Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9TA 

Email: sales@fireplacegalleryfires.co.uk 

V 

WWW.FIREPLACEGALLERYFIRES.CO.UK 

GLOUCESTER SHOWROOM 

01452 290155 

7A Northbrook Road, Gloucester, GL4 3DP 

Email: glos@fireplacegalleryfires.co.uk 

Quality doors. 

Great Service. Free Fitting. 

Example shown: 

• 3.6m wide opening 

• 77” Anthracite grey slats 

Only £1,990 

Price on this door style can range 

from £1,440 - £2,740 depending 

on the width of door opening. 

It’s time to upgrade your garage door to 

a Garolla electric door. Not only are they 

strong and secure, they are also thermally 

insulated. So if you’re transforming the 

garage into a home gym, office or even a 

garden bar, Garolla is perfect for you. 

Give us a call today and we’ll come 

and measure up FREE of charge. 

TWO REMOTE CONTROLS 

ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION 

FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR 

AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS 

CALL US TODAY FREE ON: 

01242 420 000 

MOBILE: 

07537 149 128 

www.garolla.co.uk 


Garden Trading Dining Longworth 

Chair, £220, Longcot Dining Table, 

£1,200, Holwell Crockery From £12, 

www.gardentrading.co.uk 

WHERE TO BUY 

Christmas Snowflake Table Runner, £30, 

iamfy.co 2 Natural tree top star, £9.99, 

giselagraham.co.uk 3 White Paper Star, 

45cm £8.50, 60cm £11 and Layered Paper 

Snowflake (4), 50cm, £38, all hauslife.co.uk 

5 Ceramic Christmas Tree Tray 18.5cm, 

£4, hobbycraft.co.uk 6 Wooden Bench, 

120cm, £159, hausife.co.uk 7 Christmas Eve 

Cushion, £135, janconstantine.com 8 Dried 

Grass Filled Baubles, from £6, hauslife.co.uk 

9 Burnished Brass House Tea Light Lantern, 

£55, coxandcox.co.uk 

Brass Six Candle Candleabra, £109, 

www.hauslife.co.uk 

1 

Simply Scandi 

CHRISTMAS 

2 

A timeless, pared back style for a 

beautiful festive season 

3 

4 

www.lights4fun.co.uk 

5 

6 

8 

7 

9 


A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO 

BEREAVEMENT 

The emotional aspect of dealing with a 

bereavement – even one that was expected 

– can be devastating, but when you start 

thinking about the practicalities of what to 

do next it can become even more stressful 

and overwhelming. It can be very easy 

to over complicate the process and get 

lost on your journey - the experts at 

the Bereavement Advice Centre have 

compiled this extensive guide... 

The steps below outline the main areas 

you’ll need to cover from the day your 

loved one passes away to the day the 

estate administration is completed. 

STEP 1 – WHERE DO I START? 

During the first few hours after a loved 

one has died, it can be very difficult 

knowing what to do with yourself. 

Knowing where to begin and taking that 

first step can be the hardest bit. While 

you’re waiting to collect the official 

paperwork from the doctor or the hospital 

to register the death, there are a few 

things you can be getting on with if you 

want to. 

One of these is finding any paperwork 

which might detail, for example, whether 

there are specific funeral wishes or 

requests for organ/body donation, as 

these need to be identified very soon 

after the death. If you feel up to it you can 

also begin to call family and friends to let 

them know what’s happened. 

STEP 2 – REGISTERING THE DEATH 

With the exception of when the Coroner 

is involved you’ll usually be contacted 

by either the hospital or the deceased’s 

doctor to arrange collection of the 

Medical Certificate of Cause of Death 

(MCCD for short). You can then make 

an appointment with the Registrar to 

complete the official registration, it’s 

worth bearing in mind the death needs 

to be registered in the county where the 

person died, not where they lived. 

STEP 3 – MAKING THE FUNERAL 

ARRANGEMENTS 

It’s important to remember when you 

hand over the “Green Form” you are 

personally entering into the contract for 

payment with the Funeral Director. 

If you’ve found a Will or even a Letter 

of Wishes this might give you an idea 

about what your loved one wants for their 

funeral. This can be a relief for some as it 

takes some of the decisions out of their 

hands, but it can be a concern for others 

especially if there isn’t enough money or 

the requests are unrealistic. It’s important 

to understand that funeral wishes in a Will 

aren’t legally binding and don’t have to 

be followed if they’re not possible. 

STEP 4 – BUILDING A PICTURE OF 

THE ESTATE 

If you had Power of Attorney or managed 

the deceased’s finances you will probably 

have a clear picture of how the estate is 

put together. Alternatively the deceased 

may have been very organised, leaving 

you with a folder or filing cabinet 

containing all the information you’ll need 

to look after the estate. 

If you aren’t in this position don’t panic, 

it may take a bit more investigating but 

you will get there. Take some time to 

check through any paperwork for details 

of who they dealt with for banking and 

other matters. You’re only looking for 

a name – it doesn’t matter at this point 

whether accounts are open or closed. A 

starting point could be a debit or credit 

card in their purse or wallet, a bank 

statement, a utility bill or even a memory 

of a conversation about going to a certain 

bank or building society. It all helps. 

STEP 5 – LETTING EVERYONE KNOW 

There will probably be more people to tell 

about the death than you expect, and it 

can be hard to think of everyone. 

It can be helpful to make two lists, one 

for personal e.g. family/friends/work 

colleagues and another for professional 

e.g. financial organisations/insurance 

companies/family solicitor/accountant/ 

financial advisor. You can then use the 

lists to make additional notes, which will 

help you keep track of what you have 

done and what is left. 

STEP 6 – WORKING OUT IF YOU 

NEED PROBATE 

It’s worth remembering that Probate is 

only needed in certain circumstances, 

not just because a Will hasn’t been 

made or because the total value of the 

whole estate seems high. There are 

different factors which make Probate 

a requirement, but in simple terms it is 

decided by the value of individual sole 

assets within a person’s estate. There are 

exceptions to this rule so call us and we 

can check for you. 

STEP 7 – THE FINAL STEP 

Once you’ve obtained Probate (if required) 

then you can arrange for any sole assets 

to be sold or transferred. Before you hand 

over anything to the beneficiaries you’ll 

need to make sure any debts are settled 

and Inheritance Tax has been paid. 

When you’re comfortable that all debts 

have been paid you can either: 

Follow the instructions in the Will to pay 

any Legatees/Beneficiaries OR Distribute 

the estate to the deceased’s relatives in 

line with inheritance laws called the Rules 

of Intestacy 

It’s really important that you keep clear 

records that show what money is coming 

in and out of the estate as this will give 

you a clear paper trail showing how the 

estate has been administered. You can 

then put these together with the Death 

Certificate, the Will (if there was one) and 

the Grant of Probate (if this was required) 

to form your estate accounts. 

Edited from an article published for 

the Bereavement Advice Centre, you 

can find more information and advice 

at bereavementadvice.org or call 0800 

634 9494. 


Your lawyers, for life 

When you’re looking for a house to call home... 

Whether you’re buying, selling, or remortgaging your home, our 

award-winning Residential Conveyancing team can help take 

the stress away, leaving you to focus on what’s important. 

Get in touch: 

Queens Chambers 

2 North Street 

Newport 

NP20 1TE 

01633 235145 

hello@hevans.com 

hardingevans.com 

Residential 

Dementia 

Bishop's Cleeve 

Care Home 

Respite 

A Warm & Friendly Welcome Awaits 

Bishop's Cleeve Care Home provides your loved one with a 

warm and friendly atmosphere, an elegant interior and 

beautiful landscaped gardens to enjoy and relax in. 

carehome.bc@advinia.com 

www.advinia.co.uk/care-homes/bishops-cleeve-care-home 

Ruby Ave, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham, GL52 7ZN 

01242 358911 


Quality care in 

Cheltenham you 

can trust 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

When a family is thinking about care for a loved 

one, they want the best - they want to know that 

the care home they choose will put their loved 

one’s safety, happiness and wellbeing first. 

Care UK’s Sandfields care home in Cheltenham provides 

residential, dementia and nursing care, giving families peace of 

mind that their loved ones can stay living at the home should 

their needs change. 

Living at Sandfields is all about quality of life. Every colleague 

in the home is passionate about enabling residents to enjoy 

a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and 

preferences. The lifestyle team organises a huge variety of group 

and one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day. 

The team at Sandfields are proud to have achieved some great 

results in the recent relative survey, in fact 92% of families feel 

their loved ones are treated with kindness, respect and dignity^. 

One relative said “They keep me informed, always very friendly 

and always explain different things that she’s done and want to 

know about her history and background.” (Relative of a resident 

– April 2022) 

With the extra support that Sandfields offers, new residents are 

often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able 

to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even 

discovering new hobbies with our daily activities. 

Sandfields is part of award-winning provider, Care UK – one 

of the UK’s most successful care home operators* with over 

40 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to older 

people. 

Sandfields care home | St George’s Road, 

Cheltenham GL50 3EL | careuk.com/sandfields 

virginia.peachey@careuk.com | 01242 312802 

*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the 

Care Inspectorate in Scotland. 

^ Care UK relative survey August 2021/March 2022. Study 

operated by QRS Market Research, an independent survey 

agency 

Financial advice made personal 

We recognise that talking about money and finances is personal –sometimes sensitive, 

so it’s reassuring to know that there’s someone on hand who can help you address your 

needs, understand your goals and realise your dreams. 

We offer a friendly and approachable service, backed by the strength and security 

of FTSE 100 company St. James’s Place Wealth Management; and being local means 

we’re here to help whenever you need us. 

Our advice covers a wide range of services, including: 

• Financial Planning • Retirement & Pension Planning 

• Investment Planning • Inheritance Tax 

• Personal & Corporate Protection 

Please do get in touch for a chat. 

DIANA COOPER FINANCIAL PLANNING 

Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management 

01242 464998 | 07976 753747 

di.cooper@sjpp.co.uk 

www.dianacooper.co.uk 

The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) 

for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. 

The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives. 

SJP11708 V2 (09/20) 


Expert 

nursing 

care 

Sandfields care home, 

Cheltenham 

Our fully qualified nursing teams are 

specialists in understanding a wide 

range of complex conditions and 

support residents to live as comfortably 

and independently as possible. We’re 

here to help you and your family at every 

step of the journey. 

Trusted to care. 

If you’re considering care 

01242 312802 

virginia.peachey@careuk.com 

careuk.com/sandfields

the joys of 

RETIREMENT 

From keeping fit and healthy to making the mental 

adjustment, we’ve got all the tips you need to make the most 

of your new-found free time. 

DEVELOP A ROUTINE 

You may find it feels more normal to 

continue getting up, eating and going to 

bed at roughly the same time every day. 

Plan in regular activities such as voluntary 

work, exercise and hobbies. This will 

keep things interesting and give you a 

purpose. 

WIND DOWN GENTLY 

Ensure a smoother transition by retiring in 

stages. By easing off your workload over 

several years, you’ll be able to get used 

to the idea of not working and fill your 

time in other ways. Ask your employer if 

you can cut back your working hours. 

EXERCISE YOUR MIND 

Government studies have shown that 

learning in later years can help people 

stay independent, so use your free 

time to continue to challenge yourself 

mentally, whether it’s learning an 

instrument or a language or getting a 

qualification. 

KEEP PHYSICALLY ACTIVE 

We should all aim to do at least 150 

minutes of moderate-intensity physical 

activity a week, so build up to this if you 

haven’t made exercise a normal part of 

your life previously. Why not sign up for 

a charity event to give you a goal to work 

towards? 

SEEK SOCIAL SUPPORT 

For many people, work can form a big 

part of their social life and it’s common 

to feel at a bit of a loose end once you 

retire. Fill the gaps by joining clubs and 

groups. 

PAMPER YOURSELF 

After decades of hard work, you are due 

some ‘me time’. Whether your idea of 

indulgence is a city break, a day trip to a 

spa or a small pleasure like dining out or 

going to the cinema, schedule some time 

for a well-deserved treat. 

GET A NEW PET 

Could you house a rescue cat or dog 

in need of a new home? Research 

has shown that our furry friends have 

a positive effect on our health and 

wellbeing. 

According to pet researcher Allen R. 

McConnell, a professor of psychology at 

Miami University, people with pets are 

generally happier, more trusting, and less 

lonely than those who don’t have pets. 

They also visit the doctor less often for 

minor problems. 

To find out more about rehoming a pet, 

visit your local animal rescue centre, 

the RSPCA or Dogs Trust. If you might 

be interested in volunteering to walk or 

foster an elderly person’s dog, contact 

The Cinnamon Trust. 

PUSH YOUR BOUNDARIES 

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, both healthwise 

and in general, and doing something 

different can be a refreshing change. 

Some people have found that simple 

changes, such as trying a tasty new 

recipe, finding a different hairdresser or 

joining an exercise class they haven’t done 

before gives them a new zest for life. 

GIVE BACK TO THE 

COMMUNITY 

Ever thought of volunteering? Perhaps 

you’d enjoy getting involved with your 

local youth club, animal rescue centre, 

environmental organisation or elderly 

support group. 

TRAVEL MORE 

Always dreamt of going on an aroundthe-world 

cruise, a wine-tasting trip 

through Italy, or a simple camping 

expedition in the Welsh valleys? Now you 

can finally make those long-held plans 

a reality, depending on your health and 

budget limitations. 

If longer trips aren’t practical, mini breaks 

may be a good alternative – or even days 

out to places you’ve never visited before. 

Edited from an article published for the 

British Heart Foundation - find more 

help and advice at www.bhf.org.uk 


easy rider 

ALAN IS LIVING MORE 

with no energy costs for 4 YEARS * 

SIDDINGTON PARK 

CIRENCESTER 

Get more out of life with Rangeford Villages. We’ll pay your energy costs 

for four years * so you can live your life without compromise. Relax in the spa, 

indulge in good food and meet new friends. Whatever you enjoy, you’ll find it 

in abundance at Siddington Park. With energy-efficient apartments, 

a wealth of social activities and the beautiful Cotswolds on your doorstep 

– what are you waiting for? 

BE LIKE ALAN 

Call 01285 580925 or visit www.rangefordvillages.co.uk 

EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE OVER 60s 

*Terms and conditions apply and are subject to change. Incentive applies to gas and electric bills only where applicable. 

Please speak to our sales team for full details. Offer is valid for all legal new build completions before 31st March 2023. 

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Cheltenham Living Nov - Dec 2022

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