Stratford-upon-Avon Living May - Jun 2024

YOUR FREE COPY MAY/JUNE 2024 

living 

that’s 

SHALLOT 

Celebratory recipes with 

this humble vegetable 

Cyrus 

TODIWALA 

easy summer 

STYLE 

Winning looks for a 

stylish summer 

WIN 

A GARDEN LOUNGE 

SET, LUXURY 

SWIMWEAR, KITCHEN 

& BATHROOM 

ACCESSORIES & 

MORE 

We catch up with 

the renowned chef 

Calm & 

COSY 

A living room transformation to 

inspire your renovation 

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

30 APR – 4 MAY 

30 Apr – 4 May 

14 – 18 MAY 

20 MAY– 1 JUNE 

31 MAY – 1 JUNE 

30 Apr – 4 May 30 Apr – 4 May 

21 – 22 JUNE 

26 JUNE 

Book now belgrade.co.uk

C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

16 

RECIPES CELEBRATING SHALLOTS 

Ah, May and June in the UK 

– the seasons of blooming 

flowers, endless cups of tea, 

and magazines filled with 

delightful reads - well, we 

hope you agree! 

As the sun starts to peek 

out from behind the clouds, 

this edition is bursting with 

stories to put a spring in your 

step and a smile on your 

face. 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

On the home front we have 

a living/diner transformation 

to really inspire you - with 

most of the work undertaken 

by the homeowners 

themselves! It’s a calm and 

welcoming space - perfect if 

you like things more neutral. 

On the foodie front we have 

some recipes celebrating an 

unsung hero - the flavourpacked 

shallot. Who knew 

that this versatile little root 

veg could be used in so 

many different ways! 

LIVING ROOM RENO 

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 Marion Cassidy 

e marion@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984502 

Front Cover Courtesy of Fatface 

21 

RETIREMENT PLANNING 

28 

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. 

If you are looking to shake up 

your wardrobe a little as the 

mercury rises, check out our 

summer style guide - we are 

all about those easy-breezy 

pieces that still make you 

looked pulled together. 

Our later life guide sees an 

insightful guide to retirement 

accommodation - perfect 

if you’re considering those 

next big steps. 

We will be back again in the 

height of summer - hopefully 

having already had some 

lovely sunshine and looking 

forward to some wonderful 

July and August scorchers 

ahead. See you then! 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Time 

COMPETITION 

Find out more about entering our competitions online 

at minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions - join our 

Competition Club and enter over 60 comps a year for 

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All the below close on 15th July 2024 

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WIN A GIN TASTING SESSION 

AND BOTTLE OF ARTISAN GIN 

You have the chance to win one of 

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4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

SATURDAY 7 th SEPTEMBER 2024 

SCAN THE QR CODE TO 

BUY SHOW TICKETS! 

BUY TICKETS ONLINE: 

www.moretonshow.co.uk 

or call 01608 651908 

FREE 

Saturday 7th September 2024 

Car 

Parking 

Fun for all the family: The Shetland Pony Grand National, 

Premium Livestock Showing, Arena Eventing Competition, 

Fun in Farmtastic, Sheep Shearing Competitions, Top Show Jumping, 

Rural Crafts, Fabulous British Food & lots of free activities for all to enjoy! 

NEW Attwell Farm Park Feature! 

Showground Opening Hours 8.30 - 17.30 

01.03.2024 – 31.07.2024 01.08.2024 – 06.09.2024 Show Day 

Adult £27.50 £30.00 £35.00 

Child (5-15) £13.75 £15.00 £17.50 

Family (2 adults 

& up to 3 children) 

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✩✩✩✩✩ THE TIMES 

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✩✩✩✩✩ BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE 

“Pure Pleasure” THE GUARDIAN 

OZ & ARMONICO: ALE-LELUJAH 

23 May 2024 7.30pm - Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa 

Join Britain’ s best-loved boozebrain on a Quest for the Holy Ale. Oz Clarke returns 

for another evening of music, mayhem and mild malt liquor. Mixing in a four 

thousand year 

- old Hymn to the Goddess of Beer, with Purcell’s ‘Drunken Poet’, Bach, Weelkes 

and some Hopular Hits of the Beerhalle, Oz will assiduously guide you from bar 

to bar. 

This programme will suit all palates, from part-time 

tipplers and querulous quaffers, to the upper echelons 

of the inebriati. WISH YOU WERE BEER!! 

Generously supported by Roger Medwell DL MBE, President 

of Armonico Consort 

Narrator Oz Clarke | Musicians William Towers, 

Christopher Monks & Eloise Irving plus guests 

THE FAIRY QUEEN – HENRY PURCELL 

27 June 2024 7.30pm Royal Pump Room, Leamington Spa 

For 15 years, Armonico Consort has been in demand by festivals in the UK and 

Europe to perform its inimitable version of Purcell’s Dido & Aeneas. The singers and 

actors of the company now turn their attention to Purcell’s greatest semi opera in a 

brand new semi staged version with a specially adapted script from Shakespeare’s 

‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ create for the first time a 

modern day retelling of both of these incredible works in 

one joyous evening! 

Armonico Consort will conjure up Purcell’s world of 

dreams and darkness, love and laughter in a not to be 

missed evening! 

This performance is generously supported by Hilary Eldridge, 

member of the Conductor’s Circle. 

Armonico Consort and Baroque Players | Narrators Oz Clarke & Laura Moretto 

Tickets: www.armonico.org.uk Registered charity no. 1103159 


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S T Y L I S H 

Stays 

COOMBE ABBEY 

HOTEL warwickshire 

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Warwickshire, England, 

Combe Abbey Hotel stands as a beacon of history and luxury. 

Originally a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, it has evolved 

into a stunning hotel while retaining its historic charm and 

architectural grandeur. 

Guests are welcomed into a world of opulence and tranquillity, 

where every corner exudes elegance and sophistication. The 

hotel offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, from cosy 

rooms to indulgent suites, each meticulously appointed with 

modern amenities and picturesque views of the surrounding 

countryside. Iwona and Abbi were particularly welcoming and 

helpful, ensuring we had everything we needed for our stay. 

Culinary delights await at the hotel’s restaurants and bars, 

where guests can savour exquisite dishes crafted from locally 

sourced ingredients. The Garden Room Restaurant offers fine 

dining with a modern twist, while The Abbeygate Bar provides 

a more relaxed atmosphere for light bites and afternoon tea. If 

you fancy soaking up the opulence in your room, there is also 

an extensive Room Service Menu. 

Combe Abbey Hotel is also the perfect venue for weddings, 

celebrations, and special events. With its enchanting setting 

and experienced event planners, it promises unforgettable 

moments amidst the historic beauty of Warwickshire. 

Beyond the hotel’s walls, guests can explore the wonders of 

Warwickshire, from the historic city of Coventry to the majestic 

Warwick Castle. Whether seeking cultural experiences or 

natural beauty, there is no shortage of attractions to discover. 

In essence, Combe Abbey Hotel offers a timeless retreat 

where history, luxury, and natural beauty converge, inviting 

guests to unwind and create lasting memories in the heart of 

Warwickshire. 

Coombe Abbey Hotel, Brinklow Rd, Binley, Coventry 

CV3 2AB | coombeabbey.com 

CALCOT & SPA 

tetbury 

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Tetbury, the Calcot Hotel 

and Spa offers an enchanting escape that seamlessly marries 

luxury with rustic charm. Renowned for its exceptional culinary 

offerings, the hotel delights guests with a culinary journey 

that celebrates locally sourced ingredients transformed into 

delectable dishes, from hearty breakfast spreads to gourmet 

dinners. 

Moreover, the spa at Calcot Hotel is a sanctuary of tranquillity 

and rejuvenation. Guests indulge in an array of therapeutic 

treatments, from tension-relieving massages to revitalising 

facials, delivered with precision and care. 

The latest addition to the Calcot experience is the Grain Store, 

a state-of-the-art fitness facility that sets a new standard for 

wellness. This modern space features cutting-edge equipment 

and innovative fitness programmes tailored to every guest’s 

needs. From energising workouts to relaxing yoga sessions, 

the Grain Store offers a holistic approach to well-being, 

ensuring guests leave feeling refreshed and revitalised. 

In summary, the Calcot Hotel and Spa is a haven of 

luxury where impeccable service, culinary excellence, and 

indulgent spa experiences converge. With the addition of the 

Grain Store, guests can now embark on a comprehensive 

wellness journey, embracing both physical fitness and 

holistic relaxation. Whether seeking a romantic getaway or a 

rejuvenating retreat, Calcot Hotel promises an unforgettable 

stay that exceeds all expectations. 

Calcot & Spa, Gloucestershire, Tetbury GL8 8YJ 

calcot.co 


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O U T O F A F R I C A 

in the heart of Leicestershire 

Escapism. That’s been the fodder of 

my day dreams recently. I honestly 

feel like I haven’t taken a deep breath 

in months - I’m sure we can all relate 

to those stretches where life feels like 

a hamster wheel. 

Well, if that’s you too, I think I have 

the perfect antidote. I was recently 

invited to stay at a glamping tent with 

a difference - an Out of Africa-themed 

safari tent, nestled lakeside in the 

glorious surrounds of Brook Meadows 

Farm Camp Site. 

This is no ordinary tent though - inside 

the khaki canvas of the Marabou Safari 

Glamping Lodge you’ll find a kitchen 

with a fridge and a hob, a full bathroom 

with a luxury roll top bath, two double 

beds (including one mosquito netdraped 

four-poster), two tented singles 

and the absolute jewel in the crown - a 

bespoke cabin bed festooned with fairy 

lights. This bed caused literal squeals 

of delight with our accompanying sixyear-old, 

who bundled herself into the 

space immediately, declaring she never 

wanted to leave. 

The interior has been so thoughtfully 

conceived, with layered details - antique 

furniture, vintage glassware, quirky 

lighting and a vast array of jungleprinted 

velvets and cane detailing. 

Owner Claire’s eye for design is evident, 

and all the elements are functional as 

well as beautiful. 

We don’t necessarily equate camping 

with a good night’s sleep, but this is 

glamping, so the beds were supremely 

comfortable and the bedding cosy. 

We awoke well rested, to the distant 

moos of the farm’s cattle and dappled 

sunlight on the canvas. 

lake - who knew that waiting for the 

whistle of a stove-top kettle would 

be the needed prompt to take a deep 

breath. There’s something luxuriant 

and lovely about the necessity of 

camping, glamping or otherwise, to 

slow things down; you’re more mindful 

in everything that you do - from rolling 

up the canvas covers on the windows 

to lighting a fire, things take more time 

and that’s perfectly lovely. 

As well as being the heat source of 

the tent, the wood-burning stove was 

also our oven - we loved the elemental 

nature of it, not to mention the 

amazing flavour it gave our sausages! 

There’s a fire pit with cooking grill 

outside too - ready to make the most 

of the summer months. 

The farm is a working one, and we 

were treated to a talk about the calving 

season - even getting to see a calf that 

was only a day old. The farm is also 

home to a flock of happy hens, and 

owner Mary will help little visitors to 

collect the day’s eggs, some still warm 

in the nest. This connection to nature, 

and to food production, is so vital for 

children to understand, and the whole 

process is brought to life on the farm. 

Mary even discussed how the different 

chicken breeds produce varying 

colours of egg shells - something we 

were treated to in our own hamper. 

There’s lots to enjoy in and around the 

farm. Optional extras include a range of 

gorgeous handmade, locally sourced, 

hampers delivered fresh to the door; 

wood fired pizzas on site every 

Tuesday and Saturday and a coffee 

shop with artisan homemade coffee 

and cakes. As part of a working farm 

guests can take a 4x4 tour of farm or 

settle in on a straw bale for a Saturday 

night ‘moovie’ in the cowshed cinema. 

Brook Meadows have also partnered 

with local petting farm Mini Meadows 

to provide visitors to the lodges and 

tents with passes to enjoy. 

Many of us holiday with our four legged 

friends in tow - and your furry child will 

be well catered for with a little welcome 

pack of their own, featuring homebaked 

treats, rope toys and a natural 

nose and paw balm - you won’t be the 

only one feeling relaxed after a stay! 

If you are looking for a true retreat, in 

the most beautiful of surroundings, I’d 

implore you to book a stay at Brook 

Meadows - I know I’ll be back next time 

I need to take some time for myself. 

Katie Thomson and family stayed as a guest of Brook Meadow (01858 880886 

www.brookmeadow.co.uk). A four-night self-catering midweek stay in Marabou costs 

from £145 per night based on two people sharing. Add £15 per night per additional 

person, up to eight people. 

Or a four-night midweek stay in a lakeside cabin costs from £120 per night based on 

two people sharing. Add £15 per night per additional person, up to four people. Nonelectric 

camping pitches cost from £24 midweek and £26 Friday to Sunday or Electric 

camping pitches from £34 midweek and £36 Friday to Sunday. Cost includes one 

vehicle for 2 people and the pitch. Based on a two-night minimum stay at weekends. 

Mornings were slower, with a coffee 

taken out on the deck overlooking the 

Brook Meadow, The Wrongs Farm, Welford Road, Sibbertoft, Market Harborough 

Leicestershire, LE16 9UJ 


BABY AND 

Beyond 

TOTTER + TUMBLE: 

Totter and Tumble playmats provide 

a safe and secure floor for many of 

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to taking their first steps. These 

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The beauty of the playmats are that 

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MAGNETIC MOUSE: 

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Mouse Babygrow Set £49.95, 

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GLOW DREAMING: 

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in 1 sleep aid that will help create the 

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LITTLE 

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Watson is on a mission to make 

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create high-quality, 

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S P O T T Y 

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YOUR CHANCE 

TO WIN 

Win an amazing bundle featuring 

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Closes 15th July 2024. T&Cs apply. 


Meet the Chef 

CYRUS 

TODIWALA 

The Three Counties Food and 

Drink Festival will be welcoming 

award-winning chef and author 

Cyrus Todiwala in their guest 

chef line-up on Sunday 28th July. 

Sally Thomson caught up with 

Cyrus to talk about his most 

recent cookery book and his visit 

to Worcestershire this summer. 

As an additional treat for our 

readers, Cyrus has kindly shared 

his classic Butter Chicken recipe 

with us. 

I understand that you are going 

to be involved with the Three 

Counties Food and Drink Festival 

in July, Have you done it before? 

No, not as yet, but I am looking 

forward to it. They caught me just in 

time before I made other plans. 

I understand that you were very 

much involved with your family 

cooking. So, did that trigger you 

love of cooking? 

Well, living in India you never 

thought of cooking as a profession? 

Now chefs have been glorified, 

they’ve got recognition, they’ve 

got exposure and there are now 

cooking programmes in India. 

In my days, if you opted to become 

a cook, you were considered an 

insult to a middle class family. 

Rather a disgrace more than 

anything else. 

When you entered the cooking 

profession you were fixated 

and decided that was want you 

wanted to do? 

Over a period of time, things like 

dyslexia or similar were treated 

as lethargy or laziness. There are 

certain things I just couldn’t do. 

One of them is maths, it didn’t gel 

with me. 

I’m a practical person so could 

have done a lot of things, but my 

tastebuds were good and my 

understanding of food evolved from 

childhood and over a period of time. 

What was the first dish that you 

made on your own? 

My first one was chapatis. 

We lived in what you call a joint 

family. My mother’s sister lived in 

one side of the house and we lived 

on the other side. My grand aunt 

used to make the most excellent 

chapatis. I used to help myself 

to them from her box. And with 

nobody else around I would take 

them and caramalise them with 

butter and sugar and then sell them 

to my cousins and my sister! 

Now your heritage, you have 

plethora of wonderful dishes, do 

you have one that you absolutely 

love or does it depend on your 

mood or is seasonality? Which is 

the one which makes your mouth 

water? 

As a child, one of the things I 

enjoyed most was my mother’s dish 

called eggs on potato. So we so 

coddled eggs on cumin flavoured 

potato. Do you know Ronnie 

O’Sullivan? He’s coming here for a 

class today so I’m going to teach 

him how to make that. 

We layer it up, we break a couple of 

eggs on top and we let them coddle 

nicely in the heat of the pan. 

In terms of your style of cooking 

is it Parsi cuisine? 

It was part of our upbringing as 

we are Zorastrians. Our religion is 

the oldest monotheistic religion in 

the world. We predate Christianity 

by about two and a half thousand 

years. We had to flee Persia from 

the occupation, and we had to seek 

refuge and the closest was India. But 

I do enjoy living here. Meanwhile I’m 

in love with the world. 

THE THREE COUNTIES 

FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL 

As well as cookery demonstrations 

from Cyrus, the festival will 

showcase over 160 traders 

showcasing food, drink, gifts, 

crafts, garden products, and 

delicious street food and bars. 

There’s a full menu of family 

entertainment including a cookery 

school for kids, live music and 

more cookery masterclasses from 

Phil Vickery, Rachel Allen, and 

Marcus Bean, as well as Bake-Off 

favourites, Matty Edgell and Dan 

Hunter. www.threecounties.co.uk 


BUTTER 

CHICKEN 

MASALA 

The classic Butter Chicken from 

North India, Chicken Makhani, is 

a bit different from as well as a bit 

more subtle than this. The Butter 

Chicken Masala of Bombay is so 

well known it does not even have 

any other Indian term for it. Ideally 

use the cooked Chicken Tikka 

recipe from my book, but you 

could instead marinate 4 cubed 

chicken breasts in 4 heaped 

tablespoons of thick plain yoghurt 

with 1 tablespoon of tandoori 

paste and then grill it like the tikka. 

Butter Chicken in Bombay was 

made famous by the one and only 

Delhi Durbar restaurant. Please do 

not think of calories when cooking 

this dish as the word does not 

exist here! Serves 4 

INGREDIENTS 

40g/3 tbsp butter 

2tsp chilli powder 

1tsp caster sugar 

½ tsp salt 

200g tomato puree 

juice of ½ lime 

5–7.5 cm (2–3 in) piece of fresh 

ginger, grated or finely chopped 

1 heaped tsp cumin seeds, 

toasted and ground 

2–3 green chillies, finely chopped 

(plus 1–2 extra split and added for 

flavour, optional) 

200ml double cream 

Chicken Tikka (see recipe intro) 

1 heaped tbsp chopped coriander 

MEHTOD 

Heat the butter in a kadai, wok 

or large deep frying pan until it 

foams. Remove from the heat and 

add the chilli powder, sugar and 

salt, stir well and put back onto 

the heat, stirring and cooking for a 

minute or so, then add the tomato 

pure and lime juice and cook for 

2 minutes over a low heat, stirring 

well. 

Add the ginger, half the cumin and 

the chopped chillies and cook 

over a low heat until the butter 

separates slightly. Add the split 

chillies, if using, and the cream 

and simmer for 6–8 minutes. 

Discard the split chillies. 

Add the cooked chicken tikka 

meat, and heat through until 

piping hot. Taste and re-season, 

if necessary. Sprinkle with the 

chopped coriander and the 

remaining toasted ground cumin. 


That’s Shallot 

UK Shallot help us celebrate this unsung hero! Find 

more recipes at: ukshallot.com 

SALMON AND 

SHALLOT 

TANDOORI 

SKEWERS 

These tandoori salmon skewers are 

the perfect BBQ recipe for summer, 

or they can also be grilled indoors 

on a griddle pan if it’s a classic 

British summer of rain! 

Serves: 4 

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 

up to 60 minutes marinating time) 

Cooking Time: 10 minutes 

For the quick pickled shallots 

4 round shallots, peeled and finely 

sliced 

125ml water 

125ml white wine vinegar 

½ tsp fennel seeds 

½ tsp cumin seeds 

1 tbsp table salt 

2 tbsp golden caster sugar 

For the skewers 

4 skinless salmon fillets (about 125g 

each) 

2 round shallots, finely chopped 

1 large garlic clove, grated 

2.5cm piece of fresh ginger, 

grated 

Juice of 1 lime 

100g Greek yoghurt 

1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder 

1 tsp ground turmeric 

1 tsp ground cumin 

2 tsp ground coriander 

2 tsp smoked paprika 

Salt and pepper, to taste 

Vegetable oil 

To serve 

4 naan breads 

4 tbsp raita 

2 tbsp coriander leaves 

1 long green chilli, finely sliced 

Lime halves 

Prepare the quick pickled shallots. 

Place the sliced shallots in a clean 

bowl. Put the water, wine vinegar, 

fennel and cumin seeds, salt 

and sugar into a small pan over 

a medium heat and stir until the 

sugar and salt are fully dissolved. 

Pour the hot pickling liquor over 

the shallots and leave to cool 

slightly. Cover the bowl and place 

in the fridge to pickle. 

To prepare the salmon, cut 

each fillet into 4 equal-sized 

chunks. Place the chunks 

in a bowl with the chopped 

shallots, garlic, ginger and 

lime juice and mix well. 

In another bowl, mix the 

yoghurt with the spices and 

some salt and pepper. Add 

this spiced yoghurt to the 

salmon and mix well again. 

Leave to marinate in a cool 

place for at least 20 minutes, 

or up to an hour. 

Once marinated, thread the 

salmon onto your skewers. 

Brush the hot barbecue or 

griddle pan lightly with a little 

vegetable oil then lay the 

skewers on it. Cook for 2–3 

minutes on each side until 

golden brown and lightly 

charred. Meanwhile, warm 

the 

naan on a low heat in the oven. 

Once cooked, transfer the skewers 

to a warm plate. 

Spread the naans with a tablespoon 

each of raita. Top with a salmon 

skewer. Scatter over the pickled 

shallots, some coriander and sliced 

green chilli. Serve with lime halves 

for squeezing over. 

CHAAT MASALA 

POTATOES AND 

SHALLOTS 

Sweet and crunchy, raw echalions 

shallots marry perfectly with crispy 

new potatoes, cold yoghurt and a 

zingy dressing in this fresh Indianinspired 

salad. 

Serves: 4 

Preparation Time: 10 minutes 

Cooking Time: 35 minutes 

For the potatoes 

750g baby new potatoes, cut 

lengthways into 1cm thick slices 

2 tbsp olive oil 

1 tsp chaat masala 

½ tsp ground turmeric 


250g thick Greek yoghurt 

1 echalion, thinly sliced on a 

mandolin or by hand 

1 green chilli, thinly sliced 

1½ tsp coriander seeds, toasted 

1½ tsp nigella seeds, toasted 

For the coriander chutney

30g fresh coriander, reserving a few 

for garnish 

1 green chilli, deseeded and roughly 

chopped 

1 tbsp lime juice 

4 tbsp olive oil 

Salt 

To serve 

1½ tbsp shop-bought tamarind 

paste 

1½ tsp caster sugar 

¼ tsp chaat masala 

Preheat the oven to 200°C fan. Put 

a large pan of salted water on to 

boil. Once boiling add the potatoes 

and cook for 4-5 minutes until 

cooked through. Drain the potatoes. 

Add the potatoes to a large baking 

tray – drizzle with the 2 tbsp oil, 

and top with the chaat masala, 

turmeric and seasoning. Toss 

to mix thoroughly. Roast in the 

oven, stirring once or twice, for 35 

minutes, or until deeply golden. 

Meanwhile, make the coriander 

chutney. Put all the ingredients into 

a food processor or blender and 

blitz until smooth. Set aside. 

To make the tamarind dressing, 

whisk together all the ingredients in 

a small bowl with 1½ teaspoons of 

water until the sugar is dissolved. 

Set aside. 

Spread the yoghurt on a large 

serving platter. Top with half the 

coriander chutney, swirling it through 

without completely incorporating. 

Drizzle with half of the tamarind 

dressing, and top with the potatoes, 

shallot and chilli. Drizzle over the 

remaining coriander chutney and 

tamarind dressing, then sprinkle 

over the toasted seeds and reserved 

coriander leaves and serve. 

CHICKEN, 

SHALLOT AND 

CASHEW CURRY 

This warming, fragrant chicken curry 

is the perfect dish to cook over the 

weekend when you have a little bit 

more time. Serve with rice, chapatis 

and pickles for a delicious feast. 

Serves: 4 

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 

2 hours marinating time and 30 

minutes soaking) 

Cooking Time: 45 

minutes 

For the chicken 

2 tbsp Greek yoghurt 

2 tsp turmeric 


800g skinless bone-in chicken 

thighs and drumsticks 

2 tsp vegetable oil 

6 cloves 

1 cinnamon stick 

120g round shallots, peeled and 

finely chopped 

1 tsp sugar 

100ml warm water 

½ tsp ground cardamom 

For the cashew paste: 

75g cashew nuts 

5cm piece of ginger, peeled and 

roughly chopped 

2 green chillies 

For the temper: 

1 tbsp vegetable oil 

2 round shallots, peeled and thinly 

sliced 

30g cashew nuts 

1 tsp mustard seeds 

10 curry leaves 

Put the yoghurt, turmeric and salt 

and pepper in a bowl and stir to 

combine. Mix through the chicken, 

cover and leave in the fridge to 

marinate for at least 2 hours. 

Meanwhile, make the cashew paste. 

Soak the cashews in 100ml of 

warm water 

for half an hour. Put the cashews 

and their liquid in a blender with 

the ginger and chillies, blitzing to a 

smooth paste. 

Heat the 2 teaspoons of vegetable 

oil in a large, lidded saucepan on 

a medium heat. Add the cloves 

and cinnamon and let sizzle for a 

couple of minutes until fragrant. 

Add the shallots and cook, stirring 

often, until golden – around 6 

minutes. 

Add the chicken and fry for 8 

minutes until seared all over. 

Lower the heat, add the sugar, a 

pinch of salt and 100ml of water. 

Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, 

stirring halfway through. Stir in the 

cashew paste, simmer for a further 

5 minutes, add the cardamom, and 

take the pot off the heat. 

Allow the curry to rest whilst 

making the temper – heat the 1 

tbsp oil in a small frying pan on a 

medium heat. Add the shallots and 

cook for five minutes until starting 

to turn golden. Add the cashews 

and fry for a further 2 minutes. 

Add the mustard seeds and curry 

leaves, cook for 30 seconds. Pour 

the temper over the curry and serve 

with rice or chapati. 


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LEAMINGTON SPA 

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01926 895 200 

www.aristocraftkitchensandbedrooms.co.uk

timeless and 

traditional 

Designing a kitchen you will love for 

years to come... 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

When it comes to creating a timeless kitchen design, Aristocraft 

Kitchens & Bedrooms is a brand with tradition at its heart; crafted 

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life in your home. 

Here, the expert designers from Aristocraft Kitchens & Bedrooms 

flagship showroom in Leamington Spa are sharing three tips for 

ensuring your kitchen will endure for years to come. 

CONSIDER YOUR COLOURS 

Your colour choices will set the overall tone of your kitchen, so 

they’re arguably one of the most critical factors when creating 

a timeless look. Rather than noting the trends of the moment, 

explore neutral, muted or heritage tones that have already proven 

they can stand the test of time. 

THINK AHEAD 

When future-proofing your kitchen, it’s important to question 

whether your design and layout will work hard for years to come 

and adapt as your family life does. Have you considered the 

all-important ‘kitchen triangle,’ ensuring your cooking appliances, 

sink and fridge-freezer are within an easily accessible distance 

for everyday use? Do you see your family growing, potentially 

requiring bigger appliances, more seating, or further storage 

space? Consider pieces which allow for multi-purpose living. 

Envisioning how your space will need to function over time is key 

to securing longevity. 

FINISHING TOUCHES 

Although small, the finer details of your kitchen design are 

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“It is a common misconception that you need to replace the 

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20 years building across the Warwickshire area 


A living and dining room 

transformation to inspire... 

Photography by Lucy Hartley-Saunders 


With many of us opting to 

improve instead of move, it’s never 

been more important to make our 

spaces work better for us. After 

extending a kitchen to the side 

of their house, homeowners Kate 

and Tom needed to reconfigure 

the existing kitchen and separate 

dining room into a space that 

reflected the flow of their lives. 

Opting to open the rooms 

completely, we caught up with 

them to discuss the process. 

In terms of the build, can you tell us 

what you’ve done? 

The living area occupies what was once 

the dining room, and the dining room was 

the teeny tiny kitchen. We prioritised a 

larger living space over a big dining area - 

I think many of us have moved away from 

the formal dining space, instead opting 

to have something move convivial. We 

have a large breakfast bar in the kitchen, 

which is in the new extension, so there are 

options for dining, and it made sense to 

just keep the space flowing. 

A structural steel was added between the 

old kitchen and dining room, then the old 

door from the hallway was blocked up, so 

the sofa could tuck neatly into that corner 

of the room. 

We pulled up all the floorboards to insulate 

fully underneath, and pulled down the 

ceiling to make the new electrical elements 

easier to install, and again improve the 

insulation. The two spaces were fully replastered. 

It was a lot of work, but actually, 

the walls weren’t in great condition before 

and now they are beautifully smooth. 

“We prioritised a larger 

living space over a big 

dining area - we wanted 

to have something move 

convivial.” 

What flooring was here before 

and why have you chosen the 

finish you have? 

This space has been transformed 

by the flooring, which was an 

easy-to-lay, fully DIY process. 

The flooring runs from the 

kitchen all the way through 

to the living area. It had to be 

something that would work with 

the underfloor heating, be able 

to stand up to the demands of 

kitchen life, be easy to clean 

with two dogs in the house and 

still give the space a feeling 

of warmth. I wanted to find a 

clean-looking tone which didn’t 

read too grey or too yellow, so 

settled on Canadian Nude Oak 

from Karndean - it’s a rigid-core 

product, so doesn’t need gluing 

down and just clicks together 

using the tongue and groove 

system. It can be laid over an 

existing floor too. 

That stove is amazing - why 

did you choose it? 

The existing fireplace had a small 

opening in it, and it looked like it 

would lend itself well to an inset 

stove. I’m not over-stating it 

when I say this stove is one of my 

favourite things I’ve ever had in 


▶ 

The doors were a real success story - we widened 

what was once the single kitchen door into a set 

of slimline double doors on parliament hinges so 

they can open right back to the wall. The glazing 

helps to ensure light can shine on this darker 

pocket of the house. We used reeded glass film to 

create an obscured effect for the utility door - still 

allowing light to shine, but without needing to see 

the detail of the appliances in there. 

▶ 

The dogs are clearly giving 

this feather-filled sofa 

their seal of approval. The 

space is styled with subtle 

patterns and textures, 

including lovely throws and 

cushions from homewares 

brand hauslife.co.uk 

▶ 

We went for the Stovax Riva2, which had a sleek but 

robust design. The visuals are spectacular - the range 

provides convergent airflow to keep the glass clean. 

I’m eco-conscious, so that weighed in heavily on my 

choice - the Riva2 not only meets but exceeds Ecodesign 

efficiency standards, which aim to improve air quality by 

minimising the level of permitted emissions from wood 

burning products. For those in smoke control areas, as 

we are, all models are DEFRA exempt as standard for 

burning wood in urban areas without the need for an 

additional kit. 

▶ 

This is actually an extendable table - so it can be round 

to seat four people, then has leaves to take it all the way 

to a 12 seater. It’s only the two of us, so we didn’t want a 

massive table that spent most of the year getting in the 

way, only to be used at full capacity at Christmas. So, 

this arrangement really suits us. I wanted the chairs to be 

sleek and sit below the top line of the table, as the space 

is small and I didn’t want them to encroach. Then the 

black lines just make sure that strong shade is present in 

each little zone. 


The ‘during’ photos are interesting to look back 

on - it really is a big transformation 

▶ 

“I really love this 

space. It feels 

welcoming and cosy, 

and that was always 

the goal. It’s not a 

formal seating area, 

but a place to retreat 

from daily life” 

▶ 

There’s no getting away from the need for a TV 

in a living space, but I really didn’t want it to be 

the focal point of the room. I wanted a smaller 

television with a slimline frame, so it didn’t make 

such a visual statement - I really loved the slimline 

look of this Mitchell & Brown QLED 4K Ultra HD 

TV- and even better, they’re a British brand with 

a seven year warranty, which is so much longer 

than many other brands. It’s a smart TV, so ready 

to go with all the apps. We’ve got it mounted on 

a pull-out bracket, ready to move as and when 

it’s needed. 

my home. It offers instant cosiness, 

and such a beautiful focal point 

whether it’s roaring or gently glowing. 

That sofa looks incredibly 

comfortable… 

Oh, my, goodness! It is the most 

comfortable sofa I’ve ever sat on - 

it’s the Chaise Otto from 

sofa.com. My partner and I saw it 

in our local showroom and sat on 

it for nearly half an hour! We didn’t 

want to move, and it immediately 

transported us to lazy Sundays in 

front of the fire, stretched out on 

the chaise. It has feather-wrapped 

cushions which make it dreamily 

squishy, and the covers are 

removable for washing, which is 

essential with my penchant for beige 

alongside having two dogs…it also 

means we can update the look of it 

in a few years without replacing the 

whole sofa. 

Are there any other design 

elements you love? 

We’ve zoned this space with this 

huge rug from Ruggable - it’s actually 

machine washable so can stand 

up to daily life, spills, muddy dog 

paws and more! Then we have the 

amazing Lithe Audio ceiling speakers 

- one above the dining table and the 

other in the adjoining kitchen space, 

connected to one another. It’s lovely 

to be able to have music on whilst 

cooking, and then keep the ambient 

sounds on during dinner. I think they 

look really sleek too. 

How did you use black as an 

accent? 

The house already has blackframed 

windows, so it made sense 

to include this in the other design 

choices. By echoing the black in the 

stove surround, the internal doors 

and the dining chairs, it means your 


Scan me to 

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eye can move from vignette to vignette, without 

feeling like one element is really pulling focus. 

Is the cabinetry bespoke? 

Sort of! We had some quotes which really varied, so 

we found the most cost-effective solution was using 

IKEA Metod upper cabinets on a frame on the floor, 

and then using some sturdier timber to make tops 

and shelves. By running the skirting boards around 

the front of the frame, they look built in - it’s a really 

good tip for making things look bespoke. 

Is there anything you’d change? 

I really love this space. It feels welcoming and cosy, 

and that was always the goal. It’s not a formal 

seating area, but a place to retreat from daily life, 

where you can really just spill out and chill. It’s 

versatile enough to cater for our needs as they shift. 

The space is full of design touches which help make it feel lived in, 

but also high end. All the sockets and switches are from Corston 

Architectural, and they just exude quality. Family photos are 

styled alongside more conventional decor items, plants and pieces 

collected from holidays - this isn’t a show home, but reflective 

of who lives here. Lighting is key too - wall lights help make the 

room feel cosy, with lamps and picture lights offering additional 

multi-level lighting. 

▶ 

STOCKIST INFORMATION: 

Sofa, Otto Chaise in Taupe Brushed Linen Cotton 

sofa.com; Sarrah Blue Quartz Rug, ruggable.co.uk; 

Alvah Extendable Round Dining Table and Chantilly 

Polyester Blend Upholstered Slat Back Parsons Chair both 

wayfair.co.uk; Karndean Canadian Nude Oak Flooring, 

palioexpress.com; Neutral Abstract Sands Canvas Print, 

abstracthouse.com; Stovax Riva2, find your nearest supplier 

at stovax.com; QLED 4K Ultra HD TV (available in 43”, 

50” & 55” screen sizes), find your local stockist online at 

mitchellandbrown.co.uk; Reeded Glass Film, 

surfacedesigns.com; Heritage Clear Glazed Doors, 

climadoor.co.uk; Cushions, Coffee Table, Throw and 

Log Basket from hauslife.co.uk; Ceiling Speakers from 

litheaudio.com 


NOTES FROM THE 

Garden 

By now we have enjoyed snowdrops, 

daffodils, cherry blossom and so much 

more from tulips to the brilliant green of 

new leaves on the trees… and there is so 

much more to come. 

Currently and over the 

past months there has 

been a huge amount 

of media coverage of 

mental health - both 

the fleeting and the 

fundamental, and also 

a number of reports 

about the benefits of 

gardening. 

After a stressful day, if 

you are lucky enough 

to have an outdoor 

space, just a few 

minutes breathing 

the air, watching the 

birds and seeing the 

seasonal changes can be 

incredibly beneficial. 

Tending your houseplants can be, too. Your garden is your 

own personal space, it is a valuable resource for you and 

for your family and making it a space you want to spend 

time in is so important. It need not cost a fortune, or indeed 

anything, there are often items on websites that are free to 

pick up, gardeners love to share seeds and cuttings and it is 

amazing how quickly you can enjoy the fruits of your labour, 

from a bunch of flowers to bring the outdoors inside, to a 

salad of your own home grown leaves. It has so much to offer 

so I hope your gardens bring you joy - and help to keep you 

healthy in mind and body. 

For more advice, visit Matt Bigg’s website: 

www.matthewbiggs.com 

Mill Lane Nurseries Cleeve Prior 

“40 years of growing experience” 

tel: 01789 773231 info@milllanenurseries.co.uk milllanenurseries.co.uk WR11 8JZ 

We specialise in qualii moss 

lined hanging baskets, paao, 

bedding & perennial plants, aa 

grown on sii at our nursery. 


NEW BEGINNINGS 

Choosing Retirement Accommodation 

As one approaches retirement 

age, the prospect of downsizing 

and moving into retirement 

accommodation becomes 

increasingly relevant. It’s a significant 

decision that requires careful 

planning. Here, we delve into some 

common considerations to help guide 

you through this transitional phase. 

LOCATION, LOCATION, 

LOCATION 

First and foremost, consider the 

location. Do you want to stay close 

to family and friends, or perhaps 

venture to a new area for a fresh 

start? Think about amenities nearby, 

such as shops, healthcare facilities, 

and recreational activities. Access 

to public transport is also crucial 

for maintaining independence 

and staying connected with the 

community. 

TYPES OF 

ACCOMMODATION 

Retirement accommodation 

comes in various forms, including 

independent living apartments, 

retirement villages, and assisted 

living facilities. Determine the 

level of support you require and 

choose accommodation that aligns 

with your needs and preferences. 

Independent living offers freedom 

and autonomy, while assisted living 

provides additional support with 

daily tasks and healthcare services. 

FINANCIAL 

CONSIDERATIONS 

Budgeting plays a vital role in the 

decision-making process. Consider 

the cost of accommodation, including 

any ongoing fees for maintenance, 

utilities, and services. Explore 

financial options such as selling your 

current property, renting, or accessing 

equity release schemes. 

FUTURE-PROOFING 

Planning for the future is essential 

when considering retirement 

accommodation. Think about how 

your needs may change over time 

and whether the accommodation 

can accommodate those changes. 

Look for features such as accessible 

design, mobility aids, and flexible 

care options. By future-proofing your 

choice, you can ensure that your 

retirement accommodation remains 

suitable and supportive in the years 

to come. 

HEALTHCARE AND 

SUPPORT SERVICES 

As we age, our healthcare 

needs may evolve. Consider 

proximity to healthcare facilities 

and the availability of support 

services. Assess whether the 

accommodation offers on-site 

healthcare professionals, emergency 

assistance, and access to additional 

care if needed. Prioritising access 

to healthcare can provide peace of 

mind and ensure your well-being as 

you age. 

LEGAL AND 

CONTRACTUAL 

CONSIDERATIONS 

Before finalising any agreements, 

thoroughly review the legal and 

contractual aspects of the retirement 

accommodation. Seek legal advice 

if necessary to understand the 

terms and obligations involved. Pay 

attention to details such as lease 

agreements, service contracts, 

and exit fees. It’s crucial to have 

clarity regarding your rights and 

responsibilities as a resident. 

SOCIAL AND 

RECREATIONAL 

OPPORTUNITIES 

Retirement accommodation often 

provides a range of social and 

recreational activities to enrich 

residents’ lives. From fitness 

classes and hobby groups to 

communal events and outings, 

these opportunities foster a sense 

of community. Take the time to 

explore the amenities and social 

offerings available within different to 

find the right fit for your lifestyle. 

EMBRACING THE 

JOURNEY 

Moving into retirement 

accommodation marks the 

beginning of a new chapter in 

life. Embrace this transition with 

optimism and open-mindedness. 

Take the time to explore different 

options, ask questions, and involve 

loved ones in the decision-making 

process. By carefully considering 

your needs and preferences, you 

can embark on this journey with 

confidence and enthusiasm. 

Choosing retirement accommodation 

requires thoughtful planning and 

consideration of various factors. By 

focusing on location, accommodation 

type, financial considerations, social 

opportunities, healthcare services, 

future-proofing, legal aspects, and 

embracing the journey, you can make 

an informed decision that aligns 

with your lifestyle and preferences. 

Remember, this transition is an 

opportunity for new beginnings and 

exciting possibilities. 


Questions 

about care? 

We can help 

At WCS Care we know moving into a care home is an 

emotional and difficult decision and there’s a lot to think about. 

With over 30 years’ experience, we can help you navigate 

the process of finding the right care home, so that you feel 

confident about the decision you make – whether that’s 

choosing a WCS care home, or one outside 

our group that’s more suited to your needs. 

Josephine 

Rugg 

Trusted 

Advisor 

Call me today to get answers 

to your questions. 

07802 728443 j.rugg@wcs-care.co.uk 

wcs-care.co.uk /wcscare Registered charity number 1012788 

Wild Heart 

Willow Coffins 

Wild Heart Coffins is a small family 

run business handcrafting unique, 

beautiful willow coffins from their 

workshop just outside Leamington Spa 

in Warwickshire. 

Locally made willow coffins are one of 

the most environmentally sustainable 

choices for funerals. Unlike many other 

willow coffins available, we source 

all of our materials from the UK, including willow from the 

Somerset Levels and Douglas Fir wood from sustainably 

managed forests in Wales. 

We also invite families to come and weave a small part of 

the coffin, if they wish to do so. Many people have reported 

how comforting they found this experience. 

All Wild Heart Coffins are FFMA accredited, and are 

therefore suitable for cremation and all types of burial. 

www.wildheartcoffins.co.uk 

wildheartcoffins@gmail.com | 07787 435685 


High quality care in 

Stratford-upon-Avon 

At Care UK’s Ambleside care home in 

Stratford-upon-Avon, we’ll support you to 

continue living your life the way you choose 

while delivering award-winning care in a place 

you can call home. 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

Our highly trained teams are experts in providing high quality care 

from residential, nursing and dementia care, to short term care. 

A lifestyle tailored to you 

At our ‘good’ CQC rated home our team is passionate about 

supporting you to enjoy a fulfilling life. We’ll learn all about your 

interests and preferences so we can create a fully personalised 

lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy whether it’s gardening, cheese and 

wine socials or playing chess. 

Everything under one roof 

Ambleside offers luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, hair 

salon, cinema and beautiful landscaped gardens. 

Our chef-led kitchen teams are passionate about providing 

high-quality food using fresh, local produce, and there’s always a 

choice of nutritious and delicious dishes at every meal. 

Hear what relatives have to say 

We recognise the importance of friends and family staying 

involved in their loved one’s care and lifestyle plan and our 

regular relative meetings are popular. 

And in our recent relative survey, 91% of families were impressed 

with the physical presentation of the inside of the home^ and 

90% of relatives were happy with the atmosphere in the home.^ 

Trust us to care 

At Care UK, we’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred 

care for over 40 years. We pride ourselves on the transparency of 

our care quality and fee information – ensuring you can trust us to 

care from that very first step of your journey into care. 

To find out more about Ambleside, please call 01789 868 367 

Ambleside care home 

Evesham Road, Dodwell, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9TG 

Careuk.com/ambleside 

^Care UK relative survey April & September 2023. Study operated by QRS 

Market Research, an independent survey agency. 

A BRITISH GARDEN CENTRES GUIDE 

Companion planting 

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves planting different types of plants 

together for their mutual benefit. This method not only helps protect plants from pests and 

diseases, but also promotes pollination, saves space, enhances productivity, and attracts 

beneficial insects. Companion planting is an effective and eco-friendly way of gardening as it 

eliminates the need for chemical sprays to repel insects and other pests. 

BEANS WITH SWEETCORN AND SQUASH 

A good example of the companion planting method is the “three 

sisters” method. This technique involves planting three main crops - 

beans, sweetcorn, and squash - together in the same plot of land. 

The beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they can convert 

nitrogen from the air so it can be used by the soil. This process helps 

to increase soil fertility and provides the sweetcorn and squash with 

the necessary nutrients to grow. The sweetcorn acts as a natural trellis 

for the beans to climb. As the beans grow up the corn stalks, they 

provide stability, whilst the beans also provide shade to the soil, which 

helps to keep it moist and cool. The squash acts as a natural mulch, 

which helps to retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. 

GARLIC WITH ROSES 

Planting garlic bulbs at the foot of roses makes them taste nasty to 

aphids, ants, snails and flea beetles. The beautiful globe flowers of the 

garlic also have the added benefit of attracting bees and butterflies. 

Garlic is also said to help with powdery mildew when sprayed on the 

plant as well as enhancing the rose’s fragrance. 

TOMATOES AND BASIL 

Planting basil near tomato plants can be beneficial as the aromatic 

oils released by basil can enhance the flavour of tomatoes. Basil 

also has natural pest-repelling properties, which can help protect the 

tomato plants from insects like aphids and whiteflies. 

MARIGOLDS WITH VEGETABLES 

If you are looking for a natural and effective way to ward off harmful 

insects like aphids and whitefly, French marigolds could be the perfect 

solution and act as a natural repellent for pests that can damage your 

vegetable patch. We recommend planting French marigolds alongside 

peas, beans, potatoes, and sweetcorn. 

ONIONS WITH CARROTS 

Planting onions alongside carrots can be extremely beneficial for 

both vegetables? Onions have a strong scent that acts as a natural 

repellent for root flies, which are known to damage carrot growth. Not 

only does this method offer a practical solution for pest control, but it 

also maximises the use of your vegetable. 

HERBS AND BRASSICAS 

Did you know that certain herbs can not only enhance the flavour of 

cabbage, broccoli, and kale but also keep away unwanted pests like 

cabbage moths? Thyme, Sage, and Rosemary are some of the most 

effective herbs when it comes to repelling cabbage moths, thanks to 

their strong scent. 

LAVENDER AND CHILLI 

Planting lavender and chilli together offers multiple benefits for your 

garden. Lavender’s aromatic scent acts as a natural pest repellent, 

deterring insects like aphids and moths that can harm chilli plants, 

while also attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, 

enhancing pollination and resulting in a better chilli harvest. 


A lifestyle 

tailored 

to you 

Residents’ quality of life is at the 

heart of everything we do, enabling 

each individual to lead independent, 

fulfilling lives. 

If you’re considering a care home, 

call 01789 868 367 or visit 

careuk.com/ambleside 

Trusted to care 

Ambleside care home 

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Living May - Jun 2024

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