New Forest Living Jul - Aug 2024
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
Private GP<br />
Committed Expert to Medical medical Excellence, care at Dedicated a time to to suit Your youWellbeing<br />
A A PRIVATE GP GP SERVICE FOR THOSE AGED 18 OR YEARS OVER, AND<br />
ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF SALISBURY, BASED AT THE<br />
OVER. WE ARE BASED AT THE HIGHLY RESPECTED<br />
HIGHLY RESPECT NEW HALL HOSPITAL.<br />
NEW HALL HOSPITAL ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF SALISBURY<br />
Open Monday - Saturday for face to face, telephone<br />
Same-day appointments or video available. appointments. To book an appointment,<br />
please visit our website TESTIMONIALS:<br />
www.thegrosvenorpractice.co.uk<br />
or call “Excellent our 24 GP hour practice, telephone highly recommend. booking line Very on professional,<br />
01722 703899<br />
holistic and caring approach. Seen promptly, listened to, not<br />
Book a face to face, rushed, video and or reassured.” telephone appointment<br />
“Highly with recommend one of our The experienced Grosvenor Practice. GPs today. Warm and<br />
welcoming. The doctor dealt with my problems with such efficacy,<br />
giving Appointments time and understanding.”<br />
available:<br />
Monday to Thursday<br />
GENERAL AND SPECIALIST GP<br />
SERVICES Fridays INCLUDING:<br />
Saturdays<br />
Mole mapping and Skin assessment<br />
Menopause and Women’s health<br />
Bloods tests<br />
Joint Injections<br />
MOT health Checks<br />
8:30am – 8:00pm<br />
8:30am – 5:00pm<br />
9:00am – 12:30pm<br />
Partners: Dr Felicity Groom,<br />
Dr Davina Woodward & Dr Rupert Pemsel<br />
The Grosvenor Practice LLP<br />
Email: reception@thegrosvenorpractice.co.uk<br />
Website: www.thegrosvenorpractice.co.uk<br />
<strong>New</strong> Hall Hospital,<br />
Bodenham,<br />
Salisbury SP5 4EW<br />
The Grosvenor Practice<br />
<strong>New</strong> Hall Hospital<br />
Bodenham<br />
Salisbury, SP5 4EW<br />
Tel: 01722 703899
C O N T E N T S<br />
A NOTE<br />
from the editor<br />
22<br />
PHIL VICKERY AND HIS RECIPE<br />
Welcome to the high summer<br />
edition of your fave local<br />
lifestyle magazine!<br />
As the days stretch longer<br />
and some sunshine finally<br />
makes an appearance (I<br />
swear I have webbed feet<br />
by now), it’s time to embrace<br />
the season’s vibrant energy.<br />
We are a nation obsessed<br />
with gardening, and this is no<br />
more true than in this edition,<br />
where we have a real life<br />
transformation to inspire you.<br />
If you’d like your space to be<br />
a little less abandoned and<br />
a little more Eden, hopefully<br />
this guide will help kick-start<br />
your plans for summer.<br />
04<br />
COMPETITIONS<br />
Speaking of gardens, we<br />
had a chat with multi-<br />
Chelsea gold medal<br />
winning horticulturist and<br />
TV Presenter Adam Frost -<br />
it was wonderful to get an<br />
insight into where his love of<br />
gardening began.<br />
GARDEN RENOVATION<br />
31<br />
Editor Katie Thomson<br />
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
Assistant Editor Kate Norris<br />
Publisher Sally Thomson<br />
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose<br />
Contributors<br />
Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,<br />
Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence<br />
FOR ADVERTISING<br />
Account Manager Helen Skeates<br />
e helen.skeates@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
t 01225 984494<br />
ADAM FROST<br />
40<br />
MINERVA PUBLICATIONS<br />
Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,<br />
Hilperton BA14 6JB<br />
t 01225 984 550<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
Printed on sustainably sourced paper.<br />
Please recycle this copy or pass it along<br />
when you are finished for someone else<br />
to enjoy.<br />
Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be<br />
held liable for any loss occasioned by<br />
failure of an advertisement to appear, or<br />
any damage or inconvenience caused by<br />
errors, omissions and misprints. No part of<br />
this publication may be reproduced without<br />
prior permission from the publishers.<br />
The opinions expressed within are not<br />
necessarily those of the publishers.<br />
We also had the chance to<br />
catch up with the charming<br />
Phil Vickery, who also gave<br />
us a fabulous recipe to try.<br />
He’s utterly charming and is<br />
set to appear at this year’s<br />
Three Counties Food & Drink<br />
Festival.<br />
If you’re thinking your home<br />
needs a seasonal lift, we<br />
have a lovely piece called<br />
Interior Espresso, designed<br />
to show you smaller projects<br />
that can breathe new life into<br />
your space.<br />
So, kick back, relax, and<br />
let the sunshine guide you<br />
through these pages filled<br />
with seasonal inspiration!<br />
Katie<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3
Time<br />
COMPETITION<br />
Find out more about entering our competitions online<br />
at minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions - join our<br />
Competition Club and enter over 60 comps a year for<br />
only £12.99! Or enter for free by post.<br />
All the below close on 25th <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2024</strong><br />
WIN A STELLAR VERVE<br />
COOKWARE BUNDLE WORTH<br />
OVER £300!<br />
Want to cook more healthily this<br />
summer? With new cookware range,<br />
Stellar Verve, you can prepare your<br />
favourite recipes and reduce the fat<br />
thanks to its responsive non-stick<br />
technology that requires little to no oil.<br />
To celebrate the launch of Verve, we’ve<br />
teamed up with Stellar to give one lucky<br />
reader the chance to win a bundle of<br />
Stellar Verve goodies including a 26cm<br />
Frying Pan, 28cm Wok, 26cm Grill Pan,<br />
all worth over £300.<br />
Available at www.stellar.co.uk.<br />
Keyword ‘Stellar’<br />
WIN A BBQ TRADITIONALIST’S<br />
TREAT BY CHAR-BROIL<br />
WORTH OVER £300<br />
Anyone who loves the smell and taste<br />
of charcoal BBQ will love the new Char-<br />
Broil Charcoal L. The BBQ impresses<br />
with its large 3,665cm2 cooking area<br />
and nifty features from the versatile<br />
charcoal bowl to side shelves with<br />
practical hooks for grilling utensils. In<br />
a stylish black design, key features<br />
include a temperature gauge on the lid,<br />
adjustable smoke stack and charcoal<br />
trays and an integrated bottle opener<br />
for keeping the chef hydrated! Charcoal<br />
L (£319.99 RRP) is available online and<br />
at garden centres nationwide.<br />
Keyword ‘Char-Broil BBQ’<br />
WIN THE OPINEL BBQ SET<br />
This timeless companion, available from<br />
Berry Useful, comprises a 16cm steel<br />
bladed knife complete with a safety<br />
collar that locks the blade in open and<br />
close positions, a spatula and XL tongs<br />
with a grid lifting slot at the heel, making<br />
time at the BBQ easier!<br />
Available from berryuseful.co.uk<br />
Keyword ‘Opinel’<br />
Essentials Lace B<br />
The Essentials Lace femin<br />
this season’s fashion shad<br />
Whether as loungewear<br />
dress – the understated b<br />
a delicate silk band, is su<br />
their removable pads pro<br />
with four hook and eye c<br />
lined with perforated, bre<br />
second skin!<br />
This great style also come<br />
even more variety to you<br />
their underwear to be sty<br />
Available from www.stud<br />
Sizes S/ M/L/XL<br />
WIN A TRUSTED BONA<br />
PREMIUM SPRAY MOP TO<br />
NURTURE FLOORS<br />
Bring out the beauty of wood and hard<br />
surface floors with the trusted Bona<br />
Premium cleaning system. The durable<br />
Premium Spray Mop and washable,<br />
reusable microfibre pads plus Bona’s<br />
water-based, low-VOC, GREENGUARD<br />
GOLD certified cleaning formula<br />
remove 99% of bacteria from your<br />
floors. We’ve five Bona Premium Spray<br />
Mops for Wood or Hard Surface Floors<br />
including 4L cleaning solution to win.<br />
Shop online at www.bona.com<br />
WIN THE BRAND NEW<br />
HOZELOCK AUTO REEL MOBILE<br />
AND BOKASHI COMPOSTER<br />
WITH KITCHEN CADDY<br />
Hozelock is giving away the ultimate<br />
gardening bundle, including the<br />
brand-new Auto Reel Mobile, Bokashi<br />
Composter and Kitchen Caddy, worth<br />
over £340.<br />
Built to cover all of your composting<br />
and watering needs, this bundle is the<br />
perfect solution to help your garden<br />
thrive this summer and includes<br />
Hozelock’s most premium hose storage<br />
solution.<br />
WIN ONE OF THREE<br />
UNDERWEAR SETS<br />
Introducing the Essentials Lace bralette<br />
from ANITA: comfort meets style!<br />
Perfect for lounging or adding a touch of<br />
elegance to any outfit. With adjustable<br />
back closures and removable pads, it<br />
offers a flattering fit. Plus, it’s wire-free<br />
and breathable, making it feel like a<br />
second skin! Pair with the matching<br />
Essentials Lace brief for the ultimate style<br />
and comfort combo!<br />
If you can’t wait to win then grab yours<br />
from www.studiolingerieandresort.com.<br />
Keyword ‘Bona’<br />
Keyword ‘Hozelock’<br />
Keyword ‘Anita’<br />
For more informatio<br />
4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
EMBRACE SUMMER VIBES<br />
AT THE FURLONG IN RINGWOOD<br />
Discover a delightful fusion of big-name brands,<br />
bespoke boutiques, indulgent salons, captivating galleries,<br />
and quaint cafes encircling a picturesque courtyard.<br />
For the latest events, offers & store news visit thefurlong.co.uk<br />
GET BEHIND THE SCENES WITH US ON ANY OF<br />
OUR SOCIAL CHANNELS @FURLONGCENTRE<br />
FREE PARKING<br />
FOR 2 HOURS<br />
FIND US JUST OFF<br />
THE A31, RINGWOOD
Live well,<br />
yourway<br />
Our home visits provide total peace of mind, where you are<br />
safe in the knowledge that you have the company and support<br />
of a friendly and trusted companion. Whether your interests<br />
include visiting a museum, walking through one of Hampshire’s<br />
beautiful gardens, going for lunch or staying in to watch a film -<br />
we will match you with a like-minded companion to accompany<br />
you. Starting with our companionship service means that if you<br />
need extra help, there is already someone you know and trust<br />
to provide care and support.<br />
After all, we understand that your home is where you feel the<br />
most comfortable and the happiest. It is the place you know<br />
the best. If you would like to stay living comfortably at home,<br />
whilst sharing your interests with a like-minded person, then<br />
Home Instead <strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> are here to help.<br />
Our Care<br />
Home Help<br />
Companionship<br />
Personal Care<br />
Dementia Care<br />
Live in Care<br />
Home Instead <strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong><br />
5 Rashley Mews,<br />
Lymington,<br />
Hampshire,<br />
SO41 9AR<br />
01590 637250<br />
Clients@newforest.homeinstead.co.uk<br />
www.homeinstead.co.uk/new-forest<br />
Each Home Instead franchise is independently owned and operated. Copyright © Home Instead® 2023.
To Kiss Poster, desenio.com<br />
Delilah Paint,<br />
earthbornpaints.co.uk<br />
Cushion with Pad, £75,<br />
coloursofarley.com<br />
ANYDAY Trousers,<br />
£36, John Lewis<br />
Birdsong Wallpaper,<br />
fionahoward.com<br />
Elsie Stripe<br />
Blouse,<br />
£55, Monsoon<br />
ANYDAY Pocket Cardi,<br />
£34, John Lewis<br />
Deliberate Bag £95,<br />
dunelondon.com<br />
COLOUR BOLT<br />
Step into a world where joy and personality<br />
shines through every detail. A celebration of selfexpression<br />
through vibrant tones, eclectic decor<br />
and clothing. It’s a bold move away from the more<br />
mundane muted palettes that have dominated<br />
in the past, inviting a lively mix of colours that<br />
instantly infuse your space and wardrobe with<br />
joy, creativity and a new zest for life. Instant<br />
dopamine! Pair back with neutral bases.<br />
Orange Broderie<br />
Swing Dress, £24,<br />
George at Asda<br />
Lighting by pooky.com<br />
Garden Chair<br />
with Stool,<br />
£179,<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
Everyday Tiered<br />
Maxi Dress, £18,<br />
very.co.uk<br />
Striped<br />
Trousers, £54,<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
Top, £14.50,<br />
George at Asda<br />
Gene Clog in<br />
Sand, £90,<br />
dunelondon.com<br />
8 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Burford Rattan Dining Set, available<br />
with Four or Six Seats, currently £763<br />
off, £2,485 hauslife.co.uk<br />
Pair of Napkins, £28,<br />
avalonhome.co.uk<br />
ALFRESCO<br />
LIVING<br />
If you’re looking for a few new additions<br />
to add to your collection, we’ve pulled<br />
together a curated edit with everything you<br />
need to serve your guests in style - from<br />
the little details like napkins and serving<br />
boards to gorgeous outdoor furnishings<br />
that will suit the whole family.<br />
Set Of 4 Riviera<br />
Mimosa Placemats, £80,<br />
roseandgrey.co.uk<br />
Monstera Plate, £45,<br />
roseandgrey.co.uk<br />
Brisa Large Serving Bowl,<br />
£46.99, hauslife.co.uk<br />
Drinks<br />
Dispenser, £30,<br />
ellajames.co.uk<br />
Trendsetters<br />
OUR FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE FASHIONS & FINDS<br />
Fabric by abigailborg.com<br />
Striped Serving Bowl, £78,<br />
spicerandwood.co.uk<br />
Candle Pair, £15,<br />
talkingtables.co.uk<br />
Candlestick, £6,<br />
jysk.co.uk<br />
Lighting by lights4fun.com<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 9
Eddie Allan<br />
Microsoft Certified<br />
M: 07894 621470<br />
E: eddie.allan@editsolutionsit.co.uk<br />
www.editsolutionsit.co.uk<br />
Lymington<br />
Afloat<br />
Exhibition|Festival|Events<br />
1000YearsofInnovation<br />
Celebratingtheinnovativemaritime<br />
historyofLymington,showcasingthe<br />
river'svitalroleinlocallife<br />
Eddie Allan<br />
Microsoft Certified<br />
<br />
Laptop&ComputerRepairs,SetupandMaintenance<br />
VirusRemovalandDataRecovery<br />
WiFiinstallationandConfiguration<br />
HomeandSiteVisits,PrinterSetup<br />
AdviceonnewHardware,RefurbishedPC’s&Laptops<br />
EdIT Solutions<br />
41 Meadowlands Lymington<br />
Hampshire SO41 9LB<br />
M: 07894 621470<br />
E: eddie.allan@editsolutionsit.co.uk<br />
www.editsolutionsit.co.uk<br />
CALLEDDIEon07894621470<br />
<br />
September-December<strong>2024</strong><br />
www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk<br />
Withthankstoourmainsponsor<br />
41 Meadowlands • Lymington<br />
Hampshire • SO41 9LB<br />
Mobile: 07894 621470<br />
Email: eddie.allan@editsolutionsit.co.uk<br />
Web: www.editsolutionsit.co.uk<br />
<br />
10 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
www.blandfordfashionmuseum.co.uk<br />
Tearoom/<br />
Giftshop<br />
The Full Circle<br />
Counselling service<br />
is working to deliver<br />
access to affordable talking<br />
therapy for Bournemouth<br />
Christchurch and Poole.<br />
YMCA Bournemouth believe that<br />
having access to mental health<br />
support is an important part of being<br />
healthy.<br />
Our service is for self-referring<br />
individuals as well as local businesses<br />
looking to support their staff.<br />
The counselling we provide is one to<br />
one and is delivered face to face, via<br />
online platforms or telephone.<br />
We have a team of 30 Staff, Associate<br />
and Volunteer counsellors all of whom<br />
are vetted regularly to ensure fitness<br />
to practice.<br />
Full Circle<br />
Counselling<br />
Counselling<br />
is available<br />
Monday to Friday<br />
8am to 7pm<br />
Face to face counselling<br />
takes place either in the<br />
telephone.<br />
centre of Bournemouth,<br />
Winton or Southbourne.<br />
Price:<br />
£35.00<br />
Displaying 200 years<br />
of fashion<br />
The Full Circle Counselling<br />
service is working to deliver<br />
access to affordable talking<br />
therapy for Bournemouth<br />
Christchurch and Poole.<br />
YMCA Bournemouth believe that<br />
having access to mental health<br />
support is an important part of<br />
being healthy.<br />
Our service is for self-referring<br />
individuals as well as local<br />
businesses looking to support<br />
their staff.<br />
The counselling we provide is<br />
one to one and is delivered face<br />
to face, via online platforms or<br />
We have a team of 30 Staff,<br />
Associate and Volunteer<br />
counsellors all of whom are<br />
vetted regularly to ensure<br />
fitness to practice.<br />
Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday<br />
10am - 4pm<br />
Adults £6.00 | U16 Free<br />
Full Circle<br />
Counselling<br />
See website for concessions and accessibility<br />
Blandford Forum DT11 7AA<br />
Full Circle<br />
Counselling<br />
Counselling is available Monday<br />
to Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.<br />
Face to face counselling<br />
takes place either in the<br />
centre of Bournemouth,<br />
Winton or Southbourne.<br />
Price:<br />
£35.00<br />
- ONLINE<br />
- TELEPHONE - ONLINE<br />
- FACE-TO-FACE - TELEPHONE<br />
- ONLINE<br />
Scan For an appointment Scan or for for more information<br />
per session for more per session<br />
* (50 minute duration)<br />
- FACE-TO-FACE<br />
- TELEPHONE<br />
more<br />
Telephone: details 01202 details * (50 minute duration) 830102 - FACE-TO-FACE<br />
For individual (please enquires leave a message for one-to-one and we will counselling get back to please you)<br />
For an appointment or for more informationFor an appointment or for more information<br />
email:<br />
Email: fullcirclecounselling@ymcabournemouth.org.uk<br />
“When you use the services of Full Circle<br />
www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/about/full-circle-counselling<br />
Counselling you are also supporting YMCA<br />
Telephone: 01202 * Please quote 830102 Telephone: 01202 830102<br />
NFL1 when contacting Full Circle Counselling Bournemouth to receive and the their discounted beneficiaries”.<br />
rate.<br />
For individual (please enquires leave a message for one-to-one and we will counselling get back to please you) email:<br />
Email: fullcirclecounselling@ymcabournemouth.org.uk<br />
“When you Email: use the fullcirclecounselling@ymcabournemouth.org.uk<br />
services of<br />
www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/about/full-circle-counselling<br />
Full Circle Counselling<br />
www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/about/full-circle-counselling<br />
you are also supporting<br />
* Please quote NFL1 when contacting Full Circle Counselling YMCA Bournemouth to receive the discounted and their beneficiaries”.<br />
rate.<br />
* Please quote NFL1 when contacting Full Circle Counselling to receive the discounted rate.<br />
“When you use the services of<br />
Full Circle Counselling you are also supporting<br />
YMCA Bournemouth and their beneficiaries”.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 11
BABY AND<br />
Beyond<br />
TOTTER + TUMBLE:<br />
Totter and Tumble playmats provide<br />
a safe and secure floor for many of<br />
your child’s milestones - from their<br />
first tummy time, to sitting unaided,<br />
to taking their first steps. These<br />
mats are also great for parents too,<br />
providing a cushioned surface for<br />
the many hours spent playing on<br />
the floor. Messy play is a must for<br />
children’s sensory development and<br />
Totter + Tumble’s wipeable playmats<br />
are the ideal spots for playing on.<br />
The beauty of the playmats are that<br />
at the end of the day when the kids<br />
have gone to bed you’re still able<br />
to enjoy your home without being<br />
met with the garish colours play<br />
mats so often tend to be. Starting<br />
from £80.00 with many designs<br />
to choose from. Available from:<br />
totterandtumble.co.uk<br />
MAGNET MOUSE:<br />
With a beautiful range of prints<br />
including their signature mouse<br />
design, and gorgeous Liberty print<br />
florals, Magnet Mouse clothing is<br />
revolutionising baby<br />
wear not just in<br />
terms of style, but<br />
also ease of use!<br />
The magnetic<br />
fastenings are<br />
perfect for quick,<br />
middle of the night<br />
changes as well<br />
as on the go, so<br />
you have can<br />
have more cuddles and less<br />
struggles. Indian Block Print Alice<br />
Shirt in Fresh Blue, £48, Unisex<br />
Mouse Babygrow Set £49.95,<br />
and Blue Romper Set, £45, all<br />
magnetmouse.co.uk<br />
GLOW DREAMING:<br />
The Glow Sleep Easy, £119.95, a 5<br />
in 1 sleep aid that will help create the<br />
perfect sleep conditions, combining<br />
Red LED light therapy, with organic<br />
Pink noise, ultrasonic Humidifier<br />
with optional Aromatherapy and a<br />
Green Light to rise. The Glow Sleep<br />
Easy can be app controlled from any<br />
room in the house and gives you<br />
access to their Sleep Memberships<br />
where you can contact their team<br />
for one-on-one support. Backed by<br />
science, engineered for sleep. For<br />
more information visit<br />
glowdreaming.co.uk<br />
LITTLE<br />
HOTDOG<br />
WATSON:<br />
Cool kids hat brand Little Hotdog<br />
Watson is on a mission to make<br />
the best kids hats in the<br />
whole world. They<br />
create high-quality,<br />
responsibly-made<br />
kidswear designed to<br />
give parents peace of<br />
mind, and are made for<br />
maximum adventure.<br />
All their Summer<br />
hats provide UPF50+<br />
protection, have built in<br />
mosquito repellent and<br />
a keep cool fabric liner. Each hat is<br />
made from high quality cotton, fully<br />
machine washable and incorporates<br />
smart design technology created to<br />
keep young explorers comfortable<br />
and protected, whatever the<br />
weather. Starting from £30,<br />
littlehotdogwatson.com<br />
S P O T T Y<br />
OTTER:<br />
Spotty Otter, the<br />
renowned outdoor<br />
clothing brand trusted<br />
by parents nationwide.<br />
Putting the FUN back<br />
into Functional Kids<br />
outdoor gear! Designed<br />
to keep kids dry and<br />
comfortable during<br />
school and all their<br />
outdoor adventures.<br />
With a focus on quality,<br />
durability, and style, Spotty Otter’s<br />
range is the ultimate solution for<br />
parents seeking reliable protection<br />
against the elements. Check them<br />
out today at spottyotter.co.uk<br />
YOUR CHANCE<br />
TO WIN<br />
Win an amazing bundle featuring<br />
a product or selection from<br />
every brand on this page! Head<br />
to minervamagazines.co.uk/<br />
competitions to find details of<br />
entry. Competition keyword: ‘Mega<br />
Baby Bundle’<br />
Closes 15th <strong>Jul</strong>y <strong>2024</strong>. T&Cs apply.<br />
12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Expecting a baby?<br />
Informative, relaxed midwife-led antenatal classes.<br />
Preparing for birth is the biggest and most important<br />
investment you’ll make. Know your options, feel<br />
equipped and ready to meet your little one.<br />
❤ Practicing NHS Midwife also trained in British Sign Language<br />
❤ Relaxed and friendly environment<br />
❤ Honest and appropriate information<br />
❤ Open to adopting and surrogate parents - Third class<br />
discusses ‘once baby is here’<br />
❤ Opportunity to meet new friends and develop strong<br />
support networks<br />
❤ Two weeks postnatal support<br />
Classes at the Bell Inn <strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong><br />
Call or text: 07398 992212<br />
www.nurturewithknowledge.co.uk<br />
hello@nurturewithknowledge.co.uk<br />
fi<br />
Whitley Short, BSc Hons<br />
Nurture with knowledge<br />
LYMINGTON<br />
Keep your<br />
ears happy<br />
with our help!<br />
Our experienced team of Audiologists can offer...<br />
FREE Hearing<br />
Assessments<br />
Hearing Aids<br />
Wax Removal for adults<br />
& children ages 5+<br />
Custom Ear Plugs<br />
01590 673073<br />
1 <strong>New</strong>ington Court, Emsworth Road,<br />
Lymington SO41 9AW<br />
www.rawlingsopticians.co.uk<br />
lymington@rawlingsopticians.co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 13
IT'S A GAME<br />
CHANGER<br />
BUT NOT<br />
FREE<br />
When the Chancellor<br />
announced his plan<br />
for expanding the<br />
childcare support for<br />
parents with young<br />
children last year,<br />
families across the<br />
country would have<br />
been jumping for joy.<br />
Some of these children who will be<br />
benefiting from the new places for nine<br />
month olds in September had not even<br />
been born then!<br />
It’s true that early education and childcare<br />
is very expensive, especially for our<br />
youngest children. This is a time when<br />
parents are going back to work after<br />
parental leave and can least afford to take<br />
the hit. Research has shown that many<br />
parents end up working just to pay for<br />
their child’s nursery.<br />
So the offer of “free” hours for their child<br />
is a game changer. Unfortunately it’s not<br />
free. It will make a big difference to family<br />
finances, but there will still be costs.<br />
The reason that childcare has been so<br />
expensive over the last few years in the<br />
UK compared with similar countries is<br />
because the Government contribution<br />
has been so low. There has only been<br />
some help for children once they turn<br />
three, unless they are from disadvantaged<br />
backgrounds and that’s only from age<br />
two.<br />
Unfortunately although the Government<br />
offers funded hours, the money they pay<br />
for these has never covered the actual<br />
costs of delivering high quality early<br />
education and care. When we speak to<br />
providers, 83% say funding rates do not<br />
cover their costs and at a lower rate than<br />
inflation. As a result of underfunding,<br />
early years providers have had to<br />
increase the cost of paid-for hours to<br />
make up the shortfall.<br />
From September, children of working<br />
parents aged nine months upwards<br />
will be entitled to 15 hours of funded<br />
childcare per week. This is great news<br />
– not just enabling parents to work but<br />
high quality early education and childcare<br />
supports children’s development,<br />
wellbeing and learning.<br />
There are catches however:<br />
• The 15 hours are only during<br />
term time – most parents work all<br />
year round so most providers will<br />
“stretch” these hours across the<br />
year – reducing the hours per week<br />
• The Government only pays for<br />
the actual childcare sessions,<br />
which does not include any meals,<br />
snacks, consumables or additional<br />
activities – so families may see<br />
settings make charges for these<br />
• Depending on the length of your<br />
sessions, you will need to pay for<br />
any additional hours you need at<br />
the nursery’s usual fee especially<br />
for early or later hours.<br />
National Day Nurseries Association which<br />
represents nurseries across England,<br />
Scotland and Wales recommends that<br />
parents speak as soon as possible to<br />
their local providers to find a place for<br />
their child. Our research showed that<br />
many nurseries were concerned they<br />
wouldn’t be able to meet demand.<br />
Ratios of staff to children are higher for<br />
our youngest children so in many cases<br />
they need to recruit more practitioners.<br />
We hope everyone who wants and needs<br />
these funded childcare sessions gets a<br />
place in their preferred local childcare<br />
provider. We are sure you will all feel<br />
the benefits but until the Government<br />
changes the funding system, they won’t<br />
be free either to you the parents or those<br />
who are delivering them.<br />
By Purnima Tanuku OBE,<br />
Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries<br />
Association (NDNA)<br />
www.ndna.org.uk<br />
14 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
NEW FOREST<br />
BUS ROUTES<br />
AVAILABLE<br />
BOLD<br />
IN EXPLORING<br />
YOUR<br />
curiosity<br />
PREP OPEN DAY<br />
TUESDAY 1ST OCTOBER <strong>2024</strong> 9.30AM-12NOON<br />
SENIOR OPEN DAY<br />
SATURDAY 19TH OCTOBER <strong>2024</strong> 9.30AM-12NOON<br />
Bournemouth Collegiate School<br />
Independent co-education from ages 3-18<br />
@bcs_school | 01202 436550 | www.bournemouthcollegiateschool.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Talbot Heath<br />
Crowned Double<br />
World Swimming<br />
Champions<br />
Congratulations to the Talbot Heath<br />
Swimming Academy who secured a<br />
double win in last weekend’s World School<br />
Games Swimming Championships, at the<br />
London Aquatic Centre.<br />
Students in the Year 5/6 category were<br />
awarded 1st place, as were the pupils<br />
in the Year 9/10 category; swimmers in<br />
Year 7/8 category were awarded 2nd<br />
place. During the two day event, the<br />
girls participated in a variety of races,<br />
including Freestyle relays, Butterfly,<br />
Backstroke and Breaststroke. Many<br />
students achieved personal bests and<br />
each competitor improved on their<br />
previous performances.<br />
Head swimming coach, Barry Aldrick,<br />
praised the teams for their outstanding<br />
achievements: ‘The team’s collective<br />
efforts culminated in a remarkable<br />
achievement, garnering an impressive<br />
total of 5 Relay Medals (4 Gold, 1<br />
Silver) and 25 Individual Medals<br />
(9 Gold, 7 Silver, and 9 Bronze<br />
Medals). With great excitement, both<br />
the Junior and Senior Teams were<br />
crowned Female World School Games<br />
Swimming Championships, celebrating<br />
their outstanding performances and<br />
well-deserved victories. In a testament<br />
to their talent and dedication, the<br />
Intermediate team also achieved<br />
a commendable feat, finishing<br />
as runners-up in the prestigious<br />
competition, solidifying their status as<br />
formidable contenders in the world of<br />
school swimming.’<br />
Headteacher, Tracy Harris,<br />
congratulated the teams adding: ‘This<br />
was a tremendous achievement and<br />
the school community are very proud<br />
of the team of staff and parents who<br />
supported these students to perform<br />
at such a high level. This is such a<br />
fantastic showcase of the talent and<br />
training.’<br />
www.talbotheath.org<br />
16 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
SCHOOL’S Out<br />
Summer camps offer a myriad of benefits for children,<br />
providing experiences that extend beyond the<br />
classroom and into personal growth and development.<br />
For British children, summer camps serve as an ideal<br />
break from the routine, fostering independence, social<br />
skills, and a connection with nature.<br />
One of the primary benefits is the opportunity for<br />
children to develop independence. Away from the<br />
familiar environment of home and school, children<br />
learn to make decisions, solve problems, and take care<br />
of themselves. This sense of autonomy boosts their<br />
confidence and self-esteem, which are crucial for their<br />
overall development.<br />
Social skills are another significant advantage. At<br />
camp, children interact with peers from diverse<br />
backgrounds, forging new friendships and learning<br />
the values of teamwork and cooperation. These social<br />
interactions are invaluable, helping children improve<br />
their communication skills and learn to navigate social<br />
situations effectively.<br />
Additionally, summer camps provide a unique setting for<br />
children to engage with nature. In today’s digital age, it<br />
is vital for kids to disconnect from screens and spend<br />
time outdoors. Activities like hiking, canoeing, and<br />
archery not only keep them physically active but also<br />
instil a sense of appreciation for the natural world. This<br />
connection with nature promotes mental well-being and<br />
encourages a healthy lifestyle.<br />
Moreover, many camps offer specialised programmes<br />
such as art, music, science, or sports, allowing children<br />
to explore and develop their interests in a supportive<br />
environment. This can spark lifelong passions and even<br />
inform future career choices.<br />
In summary, summer camps are more than just a<br />
holiday; they are a valuable investment in a child’s<br />
personal growth, equipping them with essential life<br />
skills and unforgettable memories. For British families,<br />
these camps offer a balanced mix of fun, learning, and<br />
development, making them a worthwhile consideration<br />
for the summer break.<br />
Coach Holidays<br />
Holidays include pick up from home in Hook, Fleet, Alton<br />
Norfolk Explorer Mon 19th <strong>Aug</strong> Sandringham + Broads cruise<br />
3* Knights Hill Hotel £785 pp Double, £885 single 5 days<br />
Chester & Welsh Border Mon 2nd Sept<br />
2 boat rides + cream tea 3* The Queen Hotel, Chester<br />
£679 pp Double 5 days<br />
Isle of Wight Mon 7th Oct<br />
Steam train + Botanic garden + Farringford<br />
3* Channel View Hotel £679 pp Double, £739 single 5 days<br />
Blackpool Illuminations Mon 21st Oct Tower Circus + boat ride<br />
3* Grand Hotel £529 pp Double 4 days<br />
Ring for Brochure<br />
01252 265263<br />
enquiries@CandyTours.co.uk<br />
www.CandyTours.co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 17
Feeding a<br />
CROWD<br />
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a BBQ or an<br />
impromptu lunch, we’ve got some delicious<br />
recipes for you...<br />
RED FOX<br />
BREAKFAST<br />
TACOS<br />
with a cheese crust<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
80g chorizo, diced<br />
(optional)<br />
4 small tortillas (corn or<br />
wheat)<br />
100g Belton Farm Red Fox<br />
cheese, grated<br />
4 medium eggs<br />
1 avocado, sliced<br />
Lime wedges, for serving<br />
Hot sauce, for serving<br />
(optional)<br />
Pink pickled onions, for<br />
serving (optional)<br />
Fresh coriander, leaves<br />
picked, for serving<br />
METHOD<br />
Add your chopped chorizo<br />
to a pan and fry until<br />
crispy. Set aside.<br />
In a frying pan on a<br />
medium heat, add a<br />
handful of grated red fox<br />
cheese, let bubble and<br />
melt. Once melted, bring<br />
place a tortilla on top of the<br />
melted cheese. Cook for a<br />
minute or two, then flip.<br />
In another frying pan fry<br />
the eggs until the whites<br />
are set but the yolk is still<br />
runny.<br />
Assemble the cheesy<br />
tacos, add a couple<br />
of avocado slices, the<br />
chorizo, the fried eggs<br />
and top with the coriander<br />
leaves, a couple of dabs of<br />
hot sauce and the pickled<br />
onions. Serve with lime<br />
wedges alongside.<br />
Recipe courtesy of Belton Farm Red Fox Cheese<br />
Recipe courtesy of Belton Farm Red Fox Cheese<br />
RED FOX<br />
CHEESE<br />
SAUCE<br />
Loaded Hotdogs<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
2 shallots, sliced into<br />
rings<br />
100ml red wine vinegar<br />
100ml water<br />
1 tsp sugar<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
200g smoked bacon<br />
lardons, optional<br />
50g butter<br />
50g plain flour<br />
250ml of milk<br />
½ tbsp English mustard<br />
½ tbsp Turmeric<br />
200g of Belton Farm Red<br />
Fox cheese<br />
4 hot dog sausages<br />
(veggie or meat)<br />
4 sub rolls<br />
1 green chilli, finely<br />
sliced<br />
15g chives, finely<br />
chopped<br />
Crispy onions, optional<br />
METHOD<br />
Add the onion slices to<br />
a small bowl. Heat up<br />
the red wine vinegar,<br />
water, sugar and salt<br />
on a medium heat until<br />
simmering. Pour over the<br />
onion slices and put to<br />
one side.<br />
Add bacon pieces to a<br />
pan and fry until crispy<br />
and browned, for about<br />
10 mins, drain on kitchen<br />
roll and put to one side.<br />
Meanwhile, make the<br />
cheese sauce. Add 50g of<br />
butter for a pan on a low<br />
heat and allow to melt.<br />
Once melted, add 50g of<br />
plain flour and whisk until<br />
a paste is created.<br />
Turn up to a medium<br />
heat and add the milk.<br />
Whisk until all the milk<br />
is combined and has<br />
created a thick sauce<br />
consistency.<br />
Whisk in the grated Red<br />
Fox cheese until melted<br />
and combined with the<br />
sauce and generously<br />
add salt and pepper.<br />
Grill the hot dogs for 5-7<br />
minutes until browned<br />
and a little crispy.<br />
Add the sausages to<br />
the sub rolls. Top with a<br />
generous drizzle of the<br />
Red Fox cheese sauce.<br />
Finish with the bacon<br />
bits, quick pickled<br />
onions, chives, green<br />
chillies and crispy onions<br />
if using.<br />
18 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
CARR’S TEAR &<br />
SHARE BREAD<br />
with Tracklements<br />
Caramelised Onion<br />
Marmalade<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
500g Carr’s Strong White Flour<br />
1 Jar Tracklements Onion<br />
Marmalade<br />
1 tbsp Sugar<br />
1 tsp Salt<br />
1 Packet Yeast<br />
100g Unsalted butter, melted<br />
250ml Warm Water<br />
150g Cheddar Cheese, finely grated<br />
METHOD<br />
In a large mixing bowl, combine the<br />
strong white flour, sugar, salt and<br />
yeast. Make a well in the centre and<br />
pour in the melted butter and warm<br />
water. Bring everything together to<br />
form a dough. Turn out onto a lightly<br />
floured surface and knead for a few<br />
minutes until smooth and elastic.<br />
Return the dough to the bowl,<br />
cover with a damp tea towel and<br />
leave to rise in a warm place for an<br />
hour. Once the dough has risen,<br />
knock out the air and turn out on a<br />
lightly floured surface and roll into a<br />
rectangle.<br />
Spread the onion marmalade evenly<br />
over the dough, top with the grated<br />
cheese and roll everything up. Divide<br />
into 8 equal portions and arrange in<br />
a lightly greased round tin or skillet<br />
pan, leaving space for growth.<br />
Cover loosely with cling film and<br />
place in a warm place for 30-35<br />
Recipe courtesy of ukshallot.com<br />
minutes to allow the dough to rise<br />
again. Preheat the oven to 180°C<br />
fan and bake the bread for 30-40<br />
minutes until risen, golden and the<br />
onion marmalade is bubbling around<br />
the edge.<br />
Allow to cool slightly before brushing<br />
with melted butter and topping with<br />
a light grating of cheese. Serve and<br />
enjoy straight from the pan/tin.<br />
GRILLED SHALLOT<br />
& CHICKEN<br />
BANH MI<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
2 medium carrots, peeled and<br />
julienned<br />
100g radish, thinly sliced<br />
1 tbsp sugar<br />
½ tsp salt<br />
3 tbsp rice wine vinegar<br />
For the chicken:<br />
4 tbsp vegetable oil<br />
2 tbsp fish sauce<br />
1 tbsp oyster sauce<br />
½ tsp chilli flakes<br />
2 tsp sugar<br />
3 cloves of garlic, peeled<br />
2 stalks fresh lemongrass, trimmed<br />
2 teaspoons of lime zest<br />
700g boneless, skinless chicken<br />
thighs<br />
4 echalion shallots, peeled and<br />
quartered<br />
To assemble:<br />
1 large or 2 small French baguettes<br />
4 tbsp pork liver pate<br />
4 tbsp mayonnaise<br />
4 tsp hot sauce<br />
4 tsp soy sauce<br />
Recipe courtesy of Belton Carr’s<br />
Fresh coriander<br />
½ a cucumber<br />
METHOD<br />
Start by preparing the carrot and<br />
radish. Add the julienned carrots<br />
and sliced radish to a large bowl<br />
and toss in the sugar, salt, and<br />
vinegar. Set aside for 1 hour, stirring<br />
occasionally.<br />
Next prepare the marinade for the<br />
chicken and shallots. In the bowl of<br />
a food processor, add 2 tablespoons<br />
of the oil, the fish sauce, oyster<br />
sauce, chilli flakes, sugar, garlic,<br />
lemongrass, and lime zest. Process<br />
until smooth. Add to a bowl, along<br />
with the chicken and echalion<br />
shallots, and toss to coat in the<br />
marinade. Cover, transfer to the<br />
fridge, and marinate for 1-4 hours.<br />
Once marinated, heat the remaining<br />
2 tablespoons of oil in a large frying<br />
or griddle pan over a medium-high<br />
heat. Sear the chicken and shallots<br />
for about 5 minutes on each side,<br />
or until cooked through, this may<br />
need to be done in batches. Remove<br />
to a chopping board and slice the<br />
chicken into strips.<br />
Cut the baguettes to the lengths you<br />
want for each sandwich. Slice the<br />
baguette pieces length ways.<br />
Spread each sandwich with the<br />
sauces (pate, mayonnaise, soy<br />
sauce, and hot sauce) and then<br />
layer with the pickled vegetables,<br />
coriander, and cucumber. Top with<br />
the chicken and shallots and enjoy.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 19
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
HIT THE ROAD<br />
with Trailblazers<br />
We all have our fingers (and toes)<br />
crossed for a beautiful summer,<br />
and there really is no place like<br />
the UK when the sun is shining.<br />
What better way to see some<br />
of glittering coastlines and<br />
sprawling national parks, than to<br />
take to the road in a campervan?<br />
Katie Thomson hits the road...<br />
I’ll start by saying, I’m not a<br />
natural camper. My first camping<br />
experience was at the age of 16,<br />
on my bronze Duke of Edinburgh<br />
expedition in mid-March. This was<br />
where I learnt two things: one, you<br />
absoltely mustn’t forgot your roll<br />
mat (I have never been so cold in<br />
my life), and two, camping isn’t my<br />
bag. Or so I thought.<br />
Roll forward another 16 years and<br />
I was happily planning my next<br />
camping venture, but this time in<br />
the refined comfort of a campervan.<br />
I hired it from an indie company<br />
Trailblazer Campervan Hire and<br />
set off for a mini adventure on the<br />
borders of Exmoor.<br />
Equipped with a kitchenette, heater,<br />
two beds (one on the back seats,<br />
the other in the pop-top tent) and<br />
lots of other comforts, it’s compact<br />
enough for driving around without<br />
worrying about its size, but fullyeqipped<br />
enough to make sure you<br />
have everything you need.<br />
My two little four-legged friends<br />
came along for the ride, so the<br />
pop-up awning option was much<br />
needed. It was also a handy place<br />
to store camping chairs (and<br />
reserve our slot) whilst we shot<br />
off for the day, exploring Exmoor,<br />
Woolacombe and Ilfracombe.<br />
Home-base was the lovely<br />
Westermill Campsite - a working<br />
farm in the most bucolic of<br />
settings.<br />
If you’re planning a UK getaway,<br />
I can’t recommend Trailblazers<br />
enough. Collection is in Wiltshire,<br />
meaning you have the option to<br />
explore the south coast and south<br />
Wales easily. Rates start from £130<br />
per night, depending on the season.<br />
trailblazercampers.co.uk<br />
CAMPERVAN essentials<br />
Little touches to make your stay even<br />
more comfortable<br />
This hot choc is the best we’ve ever had - just<br />
the right balance of sweetness and rich chocolate<br />
flavour. 400g pouch, £6.95, hauslife.co.uk<br />
This ingenious sleeping bag can be<br />
made into two singles, or zipped<br />
together for a comfortable double<br />
- perfect for a couple sharing. Also<br />
available as a single which can unzip<br />
to create a double duvet. It’s the<br />
perfect thickness to cover you for<br />
multiple seasons, plus it’s machine<br />
washable with a fabric finish,<br />
meaning you feel as comfortable<br />
as your bed at home. Night Lark<br />
Sleeping Bag - Single Or 3-In-1<br />
Double £60/95, finebedding.co.uk<br />
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
EXPERIENCE THE<br />
GOLDEN AGE OF<br />
RAILWAY…<br />
at the Railway Hotel,<br />
Fordingbridge<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Immerse yourself in timeless elegance:<br />
Book an unforgettable stay at The Railway<br />
Hotel Fordingbridge, an award-winning<br />
boutique hotel in the <strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong><br />
Nestled in the picturesque town of<br />
Fordingbridge, the historic Railway Hotel<br />
captures the timeless glamour and charm<br />
of the golden age of rail travel.<br />
This seven-room award-winning boutique<br />
destination features a collection of<br />
exquisitely crafted rooms, each paying<br />
homage to the iconic trains that shaped<br />
British railway history. This <strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong><br />
gem offers more than just a restful stay<br />
for weary travellers. Guests can savour<br />
exquisite dining experiences and a<br />
vibrant events schedule, promising an<br />
experience so captivating, you may never<br />
wish to leave.<br />
A MEMORABLE STAY<br />
The Railway Hotel offers elegant<br />
accommodation, perfect for couples<br />
and families. Each of its distinct en-suite<br />
rooms is individually themed such as the<br />
Flying Scotsman room, which features<br />
a cosy mix of Scottish plaid, dark green<br />
hues, and sumptuous soft furnishings. In<br />
contrast, the opulent Orient Express room<br />
is lavishly decorated with bold colours,<br />
luxury fabrics, Eastern motifs and grand<br />
furniture. All rooms are equipped with<br />
home comforts, including free Wi-Fi, a<br />
hairdryer, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee<br />
making facilities, and fine cotton bed<br />
linen.<br />
STAY WITHIN<br />
THE WALLS OF<br />
FORDINGBRIDGE<br />
HISTORY<br />
For those seeking an exclusive<br />
retreat, why not immerse yourself<br />
in a slice of Fordingbridge’s rich<br />
history? Book a stay at the latest<br />
addition to the Railway Hotel –<br />
Breamore Station, nestled within a<br />
beautifully restored vintage railway<br />
station. This newly refurbished<br />
accommodation promises a<br />
unique experience, attracting<br />
guests with its ‘home from home’<br />
feel. The space seamlessly blends<br />
traditional fabrics and a Victorian<br />
colour palette with modern comforts.<br />
Dogs are welcome too, so be sure to<br />
mention them when booking!<br />
A DINING EXPERIENCE LIKE<br />
NO OTHER<br />
Guests can enjoy unparalleled dining in<br />
the Railway Hotel’s First-Class Pullman<br />
carriage, which boasts a menu of classic,<br />
beloved dishes as well as seasonal<br />
offerings and innovative fusion creations.<br />
With the hotel’s prime location in the <strong>New</strong><br />
<strong>Forest</strong>, diners can expect exceptional<br />
local produce and fresh ingredients that<br />
consciously minimise environmental<br />
impact. The Railway’s commitment to<br />
quality extends to its meats, all grass-fed<br />
and sourced directly from trusted farms<br />
in Hampshire or Wessex, with every cut<br />
meticulously hand prepared. Steak lovers<br />
will be particularly thrilled to discover the<br />
beef, chosen exclusively from Pedigree<br />
Dexter cattle on the Isle of Wight, is<br />
aged for 28 days to perfection, with an<br />
additional 3 days at the Railway Hotel for<br />
extra tenderness.<br />
Additionally, being close to the coast<br />
ensures its choice of seafood is fresh,<br />
arriving from boat to table within 24 hours<br />
and caught sustainably to guarantee<br />
the highest quality and respect for the<br />
environment.<br />
CHEERS TO THE SUMMER<br />
As the winter chill fades into memory,<br />
the Railway Hotel has curated a sizzling<br />
summer events schedule that blends<br />
high-quality cuisine with the joy of<br />
making lasting memories. Guests can<br />
revel in live entertainment and bespoke<br />
menus designed to delight the senses.<br />
Exclusive drink offers and special dining<br />
nights featuring delectable dishes from<br />
around the world await, all served with a<br />
warm welcome from the Railway Hotel’s<br />
talented and friendly team.<br />
With no two nights ever the same, there<br />
is always something new to experience at<br />
the Railway Hotel!<br />
WHERE TO FIND US<br />
Located on Station Road, The Railway<br />
Hotel is ideally positioned just minutes<br />
away from some of the country’s most<br />
beautiful natural landscapes including<br />
the <strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> National Park, Cranborne<br />
Chase AONB and the miles of sandy<br />
beaches on the south coast.<br />
www.railwayhotelfordingbridge.com<br />
116 Station Road, Fordingbridge,<br />
Hampshire, SP6 1DG<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21
A BRITISH<br />
STAPLE<br />
TV presenter and author Phil Vickery has been<br />
an integral part of the This Morning family for<br />
over 22 years and is firmly regarded as one<br />
of Britain’s favourite chefs. This summer, you<br />
can catch him at Three Counties Food & Drink<br />
Festival, which runs on 27th & 28th <strong>Jul</strong>y at<br />
Three Counties Showground, Malvern.<br />
Here Sally Thomson catches up with Phil to<br />
have a chat about food and the delights of<br />
enjoying good dishes...<br />
THIS MORNING I WATCHED A LITTLE SHORT OF VIDEO OF<br />
YOU AND YOUR DAUGHTER WINNIE. YOU WERE HAVING<br />
A CHAT ABOUT THE JOYS OF FRESH PRODUCE IN THE<br />
SPRINGTIME, IN PARTICULAR TALKING ABOUT ASPARAGUS,<br />
RASPBERRIES AND STRAWBERRIES AND HOW MUCH YOU<br />
LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR.<br />
Jersey royals, the first salad. I love all that sort of stuff and as a<br />
seasoned chef, which I’ve always been, we were always taught<br />
fresh is best.<br />
SO YOU WERE ALWAYS INTERESTED IN REGIONAL, LOCAL<br />
PRODUCE?<br />
Yes, I’ve always cooked that way my whole life. There is<br />
something absurd about eating a raspberry from Guatemala in<br />
February.<br />
YES, I FEEL EXACTLY THE SAME AS THAT. I LIKE TO TRY AND<br />
GROW MY OWN PRODUCE AS WELL. I’VE GOT RASPBERRY<br />
CANES IN THE GARDEN WHICH I ENJOY.<br />
It’s nice to look forward to the first game in season: the first<br />
pheasant, or the first roe buck. It’s always been a priority of<br />
mine.<br />
SO DO YOU LIVE OUT IN THE WILDS?<br />
Yes, I live in the country.<br />
WELL, WE’RE VERY LUCKY. WE’VE GOT LOADS OF<br />
PHEASANTS IN OUR GARDEN BUT I COULDN’T DO<br />
ANYTHING WITH THEM. I JUST LET THEM WANDER AROUND.<br />
Oh, I like to eat them. Bear in mind, when I was a young chef,<br />
there were so many pheasants around that they were bred as<br />
game birds. But it’s always been very important to me that we<br />
cook in season. And that will never change. I was born up in<br />
Folkestone in Kent. I wanted to be a doctor, but my elder brother<br />
became a doctor, so I had to change course. I’ve always had<br />
sort of a fairly outdoorsy life. I’ve done a variety of things and I’m<br />
largely self-taught.<br />
YOU SPENT QUITE A LOT OF TIME IN TAUNTON, DIDN’T YOU,<br />
AT THE CASTLE HOTEL?<br />
I did. Yeah, that’s really where I made my name. I was told<br />
“Oh, you’re a good lad, but you probably won’t get the job at<br />
the Castle.” I was like, “Okay, fair enough, but I’ll help you.”<br />
Meanwhile I had nine very happy years there (at The Castle), and<br />
I was very lucky.<br />
SO IN TERMS OF, YOU’RE GOING TO BE DOING THE THREE<br />
COUNTIES, THE DRINK FESTIVAL?<br />
I am indeed. I love cooking outdoors. Especially if you climb<br />
that hill and you get the view across the whole vista up there, it’s<br />
sensational. It’s beautiful. I was very impressed. Plus you can<br />
interact with the audience a bit more, have a bit of a laugh. So I<br />
really enjoy it.<br />
ARE YOU ALLOWED TO SAY WHAT YOU’RE GOING TO COOK<br />
THIS TIME?<br />
I haven’t got a clue what I’m going to cook at the moment. It’s<br />
probably piggies. No, it will be seasonal. It might be a bit of my<br />
pork, I’m not quite sure. Again, it’s what weather’s like. If the<br />
weather’s really hot, then I’ll do light food. If it’s a bit grim and<br />
overcast, then I’ll do some other stuff.<br />
SO WILL IT BE WITHIN A MARQUEE?<br />
Yes, it will be, yeah.<br />
SO WOULD YOU EVER LIKE TO HAVE YOUR OWN COOKERY<br />
PROGRAMME OR A SLOT?<br />
I’m happy working on This Morning. I’ve been all around the<br />
world on This Morning. I’ve been to... oh my goodness. I’ve<br />
cooked on the Indian Barrier Reef. I’ve cooked outside the<br />
Opera House. I’ve been all over India. I’ve been all over Namibia.<br />
I’ve been all over Norway. I’ve been all over Alaska. I’ve been to<br />
Peru. I’ve been very lucky.<br />
SO WHAT’S GOING TO BE YOUR GO-TO DISH FOR<br />
THIS EVENING? WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO COOK FOR<br />
YOURSELF?<br />
This evening, I might have some Arctic char. It’s like an oily fish,<br />
a bit like salmon. It’s lovely. It’s a beautiful fish. It’s a freshwater<br />
fish out of England, but this one’s come from Norway. But they<br />
do have a very mild salmon flavour. Perhaps with some Jersey<br />
Royals and some roasted English asparagus.<br />
See Phil Vickery and many other top chefs at the Three Counties<br />
Food & Drink Festival this summer on 27th & 28th <strong>Jul</strong>y at Three<br />
Counties Showground, Malvern. WR13 6NW.<br />
For the further information visit threecountiesfoodfestival.com<br />
22 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
SMOKED<br />
CHICKEN,<br />
TOMATO &<br />
PEA PAN PIE<br />
SERVES 4<br />
PREP 15 mins<br />
COOKING 40–45 mins<br />
No faffing about: just line an ovenproof<br />
frying pan with filo, bake, fill, top and<br />
bake again. The base is nice and crisp,<br />
and the filling is hearty and tasty. Pretty<br />
much any filling can be used, but the<br />
drier the fillings, the better the pie.<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
10 sheets frozen filo pastry, roughly<br />
defrosted<br />
1 egg, beaten<br />
25–30g butter, melted<br />
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for<br />
drizzling<br />
1 onion, finely chopped<br />
1 courgette, finely chopped<br />
1 garlic clove, crushed<br />
400g can chopped tomatoes in juice<br />
200g frozen peas<br />
10g beef stock cube, crumbled<br />
400g smoked chicken breast, roughly<br />
chopped<br />
1 teaspoon smoked paprika<br />
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley<br />
(about a small bunch)<br />
salt and freshly ground black pepper<br />
green salad, to serve (optional)<br />
METHOD<br />
Preheat the oven to 200°C/gas mark<br />
6. Place a few sheets of filo pastry<br />
in a 20cm × 3cm-deep, ovenproof,<br />
non-stick frying pan, brushing each<br />
layer with a little beaten egg and then<br />
melted butter. Keep any trimmings for<br />
the top later.<br />
Bake in the oven for 10 minutes to set<br />
the egg and pastry, then remove.<br />
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a saucepan<br />
over a high heat. Add the onion,<br />
courgette and garlic and cook for 10<br />
minutes to soften.<br />
Add the tomatoes, peas and stock<br />
cube and simmer for 12–15 minutes<br />
until nice and thick. Stir in the chicken<br />
and season well with salt and pepper.<br />
Spoon into the cooked filo.<br />
Very finely slice the rest of the filo<br />
pastry and place into a bowl. Drizzle<br />
with olive oil, sprinkle over the smoked<br />
paprika and chopped parsley, then<br />
season well.<br />
Recipe from Phil Vickery, The Canny Cook, Kyle<br />
Books (3 Feb. 2022)<br />
Arrange the filo on top of the filled<br />
pie. Pop into the oven and bake<br />
for a further 15 minutes until nicely<br />
browned. Serve with green salad, if<br />
you like.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 23
Plan your dream wedding<br />
Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. For<br />
many couples, navigating the nuances of wedding planning requires a<br />
blend of tradition and modernity, along with careful attention to detail.<br />
Here are some essential tips to help you plan your perfect day.<br />
Planning a wedding can be an exciting<br />
yet overwhelming experience. For<br />
many couples, navigating the nuances<br />
of wedding planning requires a blend<br />
of tradition and modernity, along with<br />
careful attention to detail. Here are some<br />
essential tips to help you plan your<br />
perfect day.<br />
Set a Budget and Stick to It<br />
One of the first steps in wedding planning<br />
is establishing a realistic budget.<br />
Weddings can be costly, and it’s crucial to<br />
know how much you’re willing to spend.<br />
Make a list of all potential expenses,<br />
including venue, catering, attire, flowers,<br />
photography, and entertainment. Allocate<br />
a portion of your budget to each category<br />
and try to stick to it. Remember to set<br />
aside a contingency fund for unexpected<br />
expenses.<br />
Choose the Right Venue<br />
The venue sets the tone for your<br />
wedding. Whether you prefer a historic<br />
manor house, a rustic barn, or a chic<br />
city hotel, make sure it reflects your<br />
style and accommodates your guest<br />
list. Many venues offer all-inclusive<br />
packages, which can simplify planning.<br />
When visiting potential venues, consider<br />
the location, capacity, and available<br />
amenities. Don’t forget to check if the<br />
venue is available on your preferred date.<br />
Plan the Ceremony<br />
Decide whether you want a religious<br />
or civil ceremony. If you opt for a<br />
church wedding, ensure you meet all<br />
the requirements set by the Church of<br />
England or your respective denomination.<br />
For civil ceremonies, contact your local<br />
registry office to book an appointment.<br />
Consider personalising your ceremony<br />
with readings, music, and vows that are<br />
24 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
meaningful to you both.<br />
Prioritise the Guest List<br />
Creating a guest list can be one of the<br />
most challenging aspects of wedding<br />
planning. Start by making a list of<br />
immediate family and close friends,<br />
then gradually add extended family and<br />
other friends. Be mindful of your venue’s<br />
capacity and your budget. It’s often<br />
helpful to have an A-list (must-invite) and<br />
a B-list (nice-to-invite), which can help<br />
manage numbers if you need to make<br />
cuts.<br />
Hire Trusted Vendors<br />
Vendors play a crucial role in bringing<br />
your wedding vision to life. Research and<br />
book reputable vendors early, including<br />
caterers, florists, photographers, and<br />
DJs or bands. Reading reviews and<br />
asking for recommendations can help<br />
you find reliable professionals. Schedule<br />
consultations to discuss your ideas<br />
and ensure they understand your<br />
expectations.<br />
Plan Your Attire<br />
Choosing wedding attire is a personal<br />
and often emotional experience. Brides<br />
should start shopping for their dress<br />
at least six to eight months before the<br />
wedding to allow time for fittings and<br />
alterations. Grooms and groomsmen<br />
should also select their suits or attire<br />
well in advance. Consider the season<br />
and venue when choosing your outfits to<br />
ensure comfort and appropriateness.<br />
Organise the Details<br />
Attention to detail can make your<br />
wedding truly memorable. Consider<br />
elements such as invitations, seating<br />
plans, favours, and decorations.<br />
Incorporate personal touches that<br />
reflect your relationship, such as a<br />
themed wedding cake or customised<br />
centrepieces. Don’t forget practical<br />
details like transportation and<br />
accommodation for guests, especially if<br />
your venue is in a remote location.<br />
Manage the Day Itself<br />
On your wedding day, the last thing you<br />
want is to be stressed about logistics.<br />
Hire a day-of coordinator or designate<br />
a trusted friend or family member to<br />
manage the schedule, coordinate<br />
with vendors, and handle any issues<br />
that arise. This allows you to focus on<br />
enjoying your special day.<br />
Embrace Tradition and Personal<br />
Touches<br />
Weddings often incorporate traditional<br />
elements, such as the bride wearing<br />
“something old, something new,<br />
something borrowed, and something<br />
blue”. However, don’t be afraid to infuse<br />
your wedding with personal touches that<br />
reflect your unique style and relationship.<br />
Balancing tradition with modern trends<br />
can create a memorable and meaningful<br />
celebration.<br />
Enjoy the Journey<br />
Finally, remember that wedding planning<br />
is a journey. While it can be stressful<br />
at times, it’s also an opportunity to<br />
strengthen your bond and create<br />
lasting memories. Stay organised, keep<br />
communication open with your partner,<br />
and don’t lose sight of what the day is<br />
truly about – celebrating your love and<br />
commitment to each other.<br />
By following these tips, couples can<br />
plan a wedding that is both beautiful and<br />
uniquely theirs.
RHINEFIELD HOUSE<br />
HOTEL<br />
THE NEW FOREST, HAMPSHIRE<br />
CELEBRATE IN STYLE<br />
With a relaxed and friendly atmosphere,<br />
award-winning food and warm service,<br />
Rhinefield House is the perfect choice<br />
to celebrate your next special occasion<br />
with family and friends. Whether it is an<br />
anniversary or birthday, an engagement party<br />
or christening, we would be delighted to be a<br />
part of your next celebration and bring your<br />
bespoke and memorable event to life.<br />
01590 622922<br />
handpickedhotels.co.uk<br />
h o m e w a r e s<br />
& c e r a m i c s<br />
p e r f e c t<br />
g i f t i n g<br />
f a s h i o n &<br />
a c c e s s o r i e s<br />
1 0 % o f f<br />
u s i n g<br />
1 0 H A U S L I F E<br />
www.hauslife.co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 25
MODERN<br />
EARTHY<br />
PAINT<br />
Make your home a<br />
calming place, with<br />
modern earthy tones to<br />
connect with nature<br />
‘Bunny Hop’,<br />
earthbornpaints.co.uk<br />
LIGHTING<br />
Lighting makes a huge impact<br />
- adding table lamps for a soft<br />
glow is great. And you can<br />
get either corded wall lights<br />
or those with a rechargable<br />
bulb if you don’t want the<br />
upheaval of chasing in<br />
new wires<br />
Sophie Allport x COAT,<br />
‘Lyddington Mist’,<br />
sophieallport.com<br />
‘Viridis’ Paint,<br />
grahambrown.com<br />
Pooky x Matthew<br />
Williamson<br />
Pendant Light,<br />
£44, pooky.com<br />
Larkhall Large<br />
Table Lamp £145,<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
Furniture from oka.com<br />
DECLUTTER<br />
Decluttering can make<br />
a huge difference to the<br />
way we feel in our homes.<br />
Get the help of an expert<br />
if you need practical steps for<br />
ongoing storage solutions.<br />
Storage baskets are a practical<br />
and aesthetically pleasing way to<br />
organise your belongings<br />
Set of 3 Baskets,<br />
£155, hauslife.co.uk<br />
Espresso<br />
INTERIOR<br />
Small-scale updates you can<br />
make to re-awaken your home<br />
BRIGHT<br />
CUSHIONS<br />
Inject some colour and pattern<br />
without having to lift a paint brush<br />
with some new cushions<br />
Outdoor Green Cushion, £40, claire-Louise.<br />
co.uk; Kappar Cushion, £145, abigailborg.com;<br />
Coral Cushion, £42, tartanblanketco.com<br />
BTC X Beata Heuman<br />
Alma Wall Light, £575,<br />
originalbtc.com<br />
Pre-loved kitchen, uke.co.uk<br />
posterstore.com<br />
NEW ART<br />
<strong>New</strong> posters, prints, or originals<br />
can transform a space. For<br />
something unique, head to your<br />
local antiques dealership or fairs<br />
REPAINTED<br />
KITCHEN<br />
A new kitchen is a big expense - if<br />
your cabinets are in good fettle and<br />
you’re happy with the functionality,<br />
a repainted or re-wrapped kitchen<br />
can be a great solution<br />
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
fi<br />
01425 650235 | sales@nfdesigns.co.uk | nfdesigns.co.uk 0<br />
<strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> Designs, 6 H<br />
01425 650235 | nfdesigns.co.uk f<br />
Call us now for a consultation<br />
<strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> Designs<br />
has over 25 years’<br />
experience in designing<br />
and installing kitchens,<br />
bedrooms, bathrooms<br />
and studies.<br />
<strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> Designs has over 25<br />
years’ experience in designing<br />
and installing kitchens, bedrooms,<br />
bathrooms and studies.<br />
<strong>New</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> Designs, 6 High Street, Fordingbridge, Hampshire SP6 1AX
ARE YOU FED UP WAITING<br />
TO FIND A BUYER?<br />
WHY CHOOSE<br />
PART EXCHANGE?<br />
USE PART EXCHANGE FOR A SIMPLE,<br />
STRESS-FREE MOVE<br />
Reserve your new Pennyfarthing Home and be safe in<br />
the knowledge that the sale and purchase is guaranteed.<br />
SAVE TIME, MONEY AND HASSLE<br />
NO CHAIN<br />
GUARANTEED PURCHASER<br />
FIXED COMPLETION DATE<br />
NO ESTATE AGENTS FEES<br />
Available at Potters Wood, Verwood, Whitsbury Green,<br />
Fordingbridge and Spring Meadows, Fontmell Magna.<br />
Contact us today to book your viewing<br />
01425 613958<br />
sales@pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk<br />
View our<br />
Step-By-Step<br />
guide
Enjoy a simple, stressfree<br />
path to your new<br />
Pennyfarthing Home<br />
with Part Exchange<br />
With over 40 years of house building experience,<br />
we understand that purchasing a new home whilst<br />
selling your current home isn’t always easy...<br />
Pennyfarthing Homes’ Part Exchange scheme offers a simple and<br />
guaranteed solution. By reserving a new Pennyfarthing home and<br />
choosing Part Exchange, customers can confidently navigate the<br />
transition, benefitting from the following key features:<br />
Stay in your current home until your new home is ready: Enjoy<br />
the comfort and convenience of residing in your existing property<br />
until the completion of your new Pennyfarthing home.<br />
No chain, no hassle: Say goodbye to the uncertainties of<br />
property chains. With part exchange you experience a chain-free<br />
journey, providing peace of mind throughout the process.<br />
Guaranteed Purchaser: Part Exchange ensures a secure<br />
and guaranteed buyer for your current home, taking away the<br />
uncertainties often associated with traditional home sales.<br />
Fixed completion Date: Plan your move with confidence as<br />
Pennyfarthing Homes will provide you with a fixed completion<br />
date, allowing you to co-ordinate your move stress-free.<br />
No estate agent fees: By using Part Exchange, there are no<br />
estate agent fees to pay.<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Save time and money: Our part exchange homebuying process<br />
saves time, reduces additional financial burdens, and eliminates<br />
unnecessary stress.<br />
Up to three local valuations: Pennyfarthing Homes offers up<br />
to three local valuations from estate agents, ensuring a fair and<br />
accurate assessment of your current property’s value.<br />
No cost to you: Take advantage of the Part Exchange service<br />
with no additional cost to you, making the move to a new<br />
Pennyfarthing home a financially sensible and worry-free choice.<br />
Sheetal Smith, Sales and Marketing Director at Pennyfarthing<br />
Homes, commented: “We remain committed to providing<br />
exceptional homes and enhancing the overall homebuying<br />
experience. Our Part Exchange service reflects the company’s<br />
dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its customers and<br />
creating a positive and seamless journey to homeownership.”<br />
Please ask about our Part Exchange service or for more<br />
information www.pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk/part-exchange/<br />
Made in our Dorset workshop<br />
25 year guarantee<br />
Family run business<br />
www.rflandscapeproducts.co.uk<br />
E: info@rflandscapeproducts.co.uk<br />
P: 01977 782 240<br />
Up to 50% more storage<br />
with fitted furniture.<br />
Made in our Dorset workshop Made in our Dorset workshop<br />
25 year guarantee 25 year guarantee<br />
Family run business Family run business<br />
Price match available<br />
Trade & Retail<br />
Nationwide Delivery<br />
Storage Storage solutions solutions designed designed<br />
with you with in mind. you in mind.<br />
Suppliers of -<br />
- Porcelain Paving<br />
- Natural Stone Paving<br />
- Tiles<br />
- Sleepers<br />
- Matching Accessories<br />
Wardrobes / Lounge and Media Units / Angled Units / Home Offices / Storage Solutions for every room<br />
Call 01202 823231 to book your free, no-obligation design consultation<br />
www.customcreations.furniture<br />
Showroom open hours: Mon - Fri: 9am – 5.30pm<br />
Wardrobes<br />
Sat:<br />
/ Lounge<br />
9am –<br />
and Wardrobes<br />
2pm<br />
Media<br />
| Sun:<br />
Units / Lounge<br />
By appointment<br />
/ Angled and Units Media / Home Units Offices / Angled / Storage Units / Home Solutions Offices for every / Storage roomSolutions for every room<br />
Call Unit 01202 1, Enterprise 823231 Park, Call Blackmoor to 01202 book Road, your 823231 free, to no-obligation book your free, design no-obligation consultation design consultation<br />
Ebblake Industrial Estate, Verwood, BH31 6YS<br />
Design inspired by you<br />
www.customcreations.furniture<br />
www.customcreations.furniture<br />
Showroom open hours: Mon - Fri:<br />
Showroom<br />
9am – 5.30pm<br />
open hours: Mon - Fri: 9am – 5.30pm www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 29<br />
Sat: 9am – 2pm | Sun: By appointment<br />
Sat: 9am – 2pm | Sun: By appointment<br />
Unit 1, Enterprise Park, Blackmoor<br />
Unit<br />
Road,<br />
1, Enterprise Park, Blackmoor Road,<br />
Ebblake Industrial Estate, Verwood,<br />
Ebblake<br />
BH31<br />
Industrial<br />
6YS<br />
Estate, Verwood, BH31 6YS<br />
Design inspired Design by you. inspired by you.
Garden<br />
GLOW UP<br />
When it comes to projects that are a double whammy, garden<br />
landscaping ticks those boxes - hugely enhancing the lifestyle<br />
of the owner alongside adding a possible 20% to your home’s<br />
value 1 . Homeowners Tom and Kate wanted to transform their<br />
space from the unusable, awkward and dark sloped space, into<br />
a multi-level tiered garden that allowed for entertaining. We<br />
caught up with them to discuss the project.<br />
P H O T O G R A P H Y LUCY SAUNDERS<br />
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Trusted & reviewed, 9/10<br />
Enjoy Your<br />
Conservatory<br />
All Year Round<br />
With energy efficient conservatory<br />
roof systems from Ecozenic<br />
0%<br />
FINANCE<br />
AVAILABLE<br />
* Subject to terms and<br />
conditions<br />
Extra room in the home<br />
Cost effective<br />
home improvement<br />
1 day to install<br />
10 year guarantee<br />
& insurance backed<br />
No deposit necessary<br />
Accredited company<br />
Trusted & reviewed<br />
Cooler in the summer,<br />
warmer in the winter<br />
Save on evergy bills<br />
ecozenic.co.uk<br />
Speak with us today!<br />
01202 798 666
Envirobuild Explorer Decking and<br />
Barton Rattan Set<br />
CAN YOU TALK US<br />
THROUGH HOW THE<br />
GARDEN WAS BEFORE AND<br />
HOW YOU APPROACHED<br />
THIS PROJECT?<br />
The garden was just not fit for<br />
purpose. The access steps<br />
were treacherous and made<br />
arriving home awkward and a bit<br />
anticlimactic. The hard landscaping<br />
left very little space for garden<br />
furniture, and the finishes were<br />
either bare concrete or hardcore.<br />
The sloped site was challenging.<br />
The biggest job was the removal<br />
of earth and the creation of larger<br />
retaining walls - this allowed the<br />
usable space to double.<br />
We then wanted to zone the space<br />
as lounging and dining, with the<br />
dining on decking coming off<br />
the kitchen, and the lounging on<br />
porcelain slabs, meeting in the<br />
middle on the walkway.<br />
HOW DOES IT WORK WITH<br />
THE EXISTING HOUSE?<br />
The extension was designed with<br />
the garden in mind, with the Origin<br />
bi-fold doors opening from the<br />
kitchen onto the raised decking<br />
area. The black ‘Granite’ finish<br />
of the decking complements the<br />
doors, and also provides contrast<br />
against the buff-coloured stone of<br />
the house.<br />
32 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
There’s a nice circularity now<br />
between the inside and out, and<br />
the two different seating zones<br />
are connected by a path which is<br />
bordered by the same repeating<br />
plant drifts to create a flow.<br />
WHY CHOOSE COMPOSITE<br />
DECKING?<br />
Composite was a no-brainer for<br />
us - it’s long-lasting and very low<br />
maintenance compared with its<br />
timber equivalent. It’s easy to clean<br />
with a jet washer and there’s no<br />
sanding and re-oiling involved.<br />
This is the Explorer range from<br />
Envirobuild*, which is made from<br />
recycled plastic. The company<br />
also donates 10% of profits to<br />
sustainability charities - it’s nice<br />
to see a company with social<br />
responsibility.<br />
Origin Bifold Doors<br />
The dining set is from the<br />
same company - we wanted<br />
something that would ‘pop’<br />
against the dark decking,<br />
and this six-seater Barton set<br />
works beautifully to create a<br />
contemporary dining area.<br />
ARE THE PORCELAIN<br />
TILES SLIPPERY?<br />
This was something we were<br />
concerned about and in turn we<br />
researched a lot and made sure<br />
our choices were anti-slip - this<br />
Kensington SE 04 from Origin<br />
BEFORE<br />
Earth Anthracite Porcelain, RF Paving<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 33
Earth Anthracite Porcelain, RF Paving<br />
34 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
“MAKE SURE YOU KNOW<br />
YOUR GARDEN BEFORE<br />
YOU START WORK - LOOK<br />
AT WHERE GETS SUN - IT<br />
WILL DICTATE NOT ONLY<br />
WHERE YOU SIT BUT YOUR<br />
PLANTING SCHEMES TOO.”<br />
selection is Earth Porcelain Paving* in the colour Anthracite and<br />
it just looks superb. The large format tiles make sure the space<br />
looks contemporary and the colour hides a multitude of sins! We<br />
used it on both the patio and the new steps, so its functionality<br />
was as important as the aesthetics.<br />
The porcelain is also a practical choice, it’s immensely strong and<br />
durable, scratch and stain resistant. Important when we wanted<br />
this area to house our fire pit.<br />
IS THAT THE FRONT DOOR?<br />
Sort of! The parking in this house is at the back, so we wanted<br />
there to still be a sense of arrival when coming home. This is<br />
made possible by the beautiful Origin Aluminium Door with the full<br />
height casement windows either side for added impact. The wide<br />
steps leading down to the door are paved with the same porcelain<br />
as the other patio.<br />
Envirobuild Explorer Decking and<br />
Barton Rattan Set<br />
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE PLANTING?<br />
We were really inspired by Prairie-style planting, so lots of drifts of<br />
ornamental grasses and herbaceous perennials - most of the ones<br />
in this style are really great for pollinators too, which was perfect<br />
for us. For the grasses, we chose the ornamental grass experts<br />
at Knoll Gardens - their selection is completely unmatched! Then<br />
for lots of the perennials, we selected from a mixture of a local<br />
plant nursery and then some stars from the Piet Oudolf curation<br />
at Farmer Gracy. Oudolf is an authority on this style of planting, so<br />
this curation was hugely helpful in terms of planning.<br />
Lots of the plants came from local nurseries. The best deals can<br />
usually be found at nurseries and the teams there always have lots<br />
of advice to offer.<br />
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED DURING THE<br />
PROJECT?<br />
That a budget only applies until you discover what’s lying<br />
underneath! The digging out and muck away of the retaining wall<br />
was a longer and more costly job than we could have anticipated.<br />
But ultimately, we’ve doubled the usable space in that area and<br />
it’s fabulous to use. We’d definitely stress the importance of<br />
having a contingency fund though.<br />
The other lesson was to make sure you know your garden before<br />
you start work - look at where gets sun - it will dictate not only<br />
where you sit but your planting schemes too.<br />
STOCKIST INFORMATION<br />
• Earth Anthracite Porcelain, Per m2 from £26.40 inc VAT,<br />
rflandscapeproducts.co.uk<br />
• Explorer Decking, £29.69 per length (inc. VAT), envirobuild.com<br />
• Baret Rattan Corner Dining Set, £2,799.99 - currently on sale for<br />
£1,119.99, envirobuild.com<br />
• Doors from Origin, origin-global.com<br />
• Planting; farmergracy.co.uk and knollgardens.co.uk<br />
1<br />
Research conducted by AXA. * PR discounted products<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 35
Garden<br />
I N T H E<br />
MAINTENANCE MADE EASY<br />
Stihl is a titan in the garden tool industry, and their new<br />
range of garden tools are a fantastic addition to the<br />
collection. They share interchangable AK batteries,<br />
meaning you can swap your spares between the<br />
tools. We’ve found that the RMA 248 Mower and<br />
FSA 60 trimmer are perfect for a medium garden<br />
- being lightweight and easy to manouever but not<br />
lacking in battery length to complete the work.<br />
The team at Stihl have given us some top tips for lawn care this summer: “It is<br />
good practise to start by trimming the edges with a gardening tool such as the<br />
STIHL FSA 30. The first grass trimmer in STIHL’s AS System of interchangeable<br />
battery-powered tools, the FSA 30 is extremely lightweight and easy to<br />
manoeuvre. Be careful to avoid potential hazards such as patio windows, and<br />
consider the direction you mow in, so the grass falls onto the lawn and can be<br />
collected by a lawn mower, rather than onto the path or flowerbed.<br />
EFFORTLESS<br />
WATERING<br />
Equipped with a 30m hose and<br />
an additional 5m feeder hose,<br />
this Auto Reel mobile ensures<br />
extended reach for all your<br />
watering needs. Experience<br />
unparalleled ease with its<br />
automatic rewind feature,<br />
complete with a reliable brake<br />
system for controlled retraction.<br />
No more tangles or kinks,<br />
thanks to the anti-kink hose<br />
design, allowing for smooth<br />
operation every time.<br />
Designed for practicality,<br />
the foldable front kickstand<br />
provides stability during use,<br />
while the large wheels enable<br />
effortless mobility around your<br />
garden. Never misplace your<br />
hose or accessories again, with<br />
designated hose and connector<br />
park points,<br />
along with a rear<br />
accessory storage<br />
basket for added<br />
convenience.<br />
Hozelock Auto Reel Mobile<br />
– RRP from £219.99<br />
“Begin mowing your lawn at the side, in the corner that best suits you, being<br />
careful not to walk too fast so as to optimise the cut and collection efficiency of<br />
your lawn mower. The new STIHL 2 and 4 series lawn mowers are available in<br />
a variety of cutting widths to best suit the lawn areas, as well as different drive<br />
options including variable speed drive which ranges from 2 to 4.5km and single<br />
speed drive of 3.5km hour; a comfortable walk.<br />
STIHL RMA 248 battery-powered lawn mower with AK battery and charger – RRP from £489 and STIHL<br />
FSA 60 R battery-powered grass trimmer – RRP from £169 (tool only)<br />
GARDEN IN COMFORT<br />
Garden with complete ease and in comfort with<br />
these slip-on and off clogs. Fleece-lined<br />
for maxiumum comfort, these padded<br />
garden clogs are waterproof and easy<br />
to use for those occasions when you<br />
need to nip out into the garden.<br />
Fleecy Cloggies® Teal, £12.99, townandco.com<br />
SUSTAINABLE HOME<br />
Making your own compost fro food waste is a great way to both<br />
reduce your gardening costs and utilise a polluting waste product.<br />
Creating your own compost produces carbon dioxide as part of the<br />
natural carbon cycle, whereas throwing food away for landfill produces<br />
both carbon dioxide and methane, a hugely harmful greenhouse gas.<br />
This compost bin from Hozelock has a handle for spinning, meaning<br />
you don’t need to turn your compost - it also produces it faster, giving<br />
you compost in as little as 6-8 weeks. As an added bonus, it creates<br />
nutrient-rich liquid plant feed, in a handy, ready-to-spray bottle.<br />
Hozelock EasyMix 2-in-1 Composter – RRP from £189.99<br />
36 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
OUR SERVICES<br />
INCLUDE BUT ARE<br />
NOT LIMITED TO...<br />
Fascia and Guttering<br />
FREE<br />
QUOTATION<br />
OR ADVICE<br />
Husband and<br />
wife team<br />
Window and Door Repairs<br />
Glazing<br />
Conservatory Roof<br />
Insulation<br />
Conservatory Repairs<br />
General Maintenance<br />
Loft Insulation and<br />
Boarding<br />
Becky<br />
Andy<br />
07860844401<br />
07516723151<br />
or email<br />
sales@srwservices.co.uk
Road Test Review<br />
GENESIS ELECTRIFIED GV70<br />
Are you in need of an electric vehicle that meets the demands of family life and feels<br />
like a smooth estate to drive? Enter the Genesis Electrified GV70.<br />
OVERVIEW<br />
Genesis is the luxury arm of Hyundai, who<br />
have been making huge strides in the<br />
SUV market with their perennially-popular<br />
Kona and Tuscon models. They’ve<br />
taken these successes and refined<br />
them, creating the Electrified GV70 - a<br />
stunning luxury crossover - from its gently<br />
articulated curves to a beautifully-decked<br />
out interior, this is a luxurious ride in every<br />
sense. We took it for a spin...<br />
DRIVING<br />
Given its heft, it handles corners<br />
surprisingly well - this is largely thanks<br />
to the rear-biased power delivery, which<br />
means the nose goes where you point it.<br />
Comfort is king, with the combination of its<br />
whisper-quiet motor and noise-cancelling<br />
technology - it effectively minimises<br />
wind noise with its standard acoustic<br />
windscreen and laminated side windows.<br />
RANGE<br />
The official range of the Genesis<br />
Electrified GV70 stands at 283 miles,<br />
although opting for the 20-inch wheel<br />
configuration slightly reduces it to 276<br />
miles. However, in real-world conditions,<br />
a more realistic estimate would be<br />
around 230 miles - still more than<br />
enough for day-to-day life, as well as<br />
some significant road trips.<br />
POWER<br />
Simplicity reigns in the Genesis Electrified<br />
GV70 lineup, boasting a singular<br />
mechanical configuration: dual electric<br />
motors and a four-wheel-drive setup,<br />
culminating in a formidable total power<br />
output of up to 483bhp. This propels<br />
the GV70 to achieve a brisk 0-62mph<br />
acceleration in just 4.2 seconds, eclipsing<br />
the performance of competitors such as<br />
the BMW iX3, Jaguar I-Pace, Tesla Model<br />
Y Long Range, and Volvo C40.<br />
INTERIOR<br />
The standard 14.5in infotainment screen<br />
is one of the largest you’ll find in the<br />
class. However, for shorter drivers, it<br />
can be a little hard to reach because of<br />
its high-placement on the dashboard<br />
- happily, there’s a dial on the central<br />
console to control the screen too.<br />
Overall the interior feels spacious and<br />
luxurious, with soft coatings on all the<br />
areas you regularly touch. The many<br />
options for seat and steering wheel<br />
adjustments amplify the comfort -<br />
adjustable lumbar support is standard, or<br />
opting for the Comfort Seat pack adds a<br />
massaging driver’s seat.<br />
Front and rear parking sensors, along<br />
with a reversing camera, are included<br />
as standard features. Additionally, the<br />
Electrified GV70 offers a clever feature<br />
to aid in kerb visibility through its side<br />
mirrors: when in reverse, the reversing<br />
lights project lines onto the ground<br />
behind the car.<br />
CHARGING<br />
The GV70 boasts a faster charging<br />
capability compared to the iX3 and<br />
Model Y, as it can accept power at a<br />
rate of up to 240kW. This translates<br />
to approximately 18 minutes for a<br />
10-80% charge when utilising a rapid<br />
charger with such capacity. On the other<br />
hand, a home wall charger will take<br />
approximately 12 hours to complete a full<br />
0-100% recharge.<br />
SAFETY & SUPPORT<br />
All models come equipped with<br />
automatic emergency braking (AEB)<br />
featuring pedestrian detection, lanekeeping<br />
assistance, and rear cross-traffic<br />
alert. The Innovation Pack enhances<br />
safety further with additional automated<br />
functionalities, including lane-change<br />
assist on motorways, blind-spot<br />
monitoring, and an upgraded emergency<br />
braking system.<br />
Unique to Genesis, a Genesis Personal<br />
Assistant will help you at every stage of<br />
your journey, from your initial enquiry,<br />
through the ordering process, to servicing.<br />
They’ll help you choose the right model,<br />
arrange your test drive from home and<br />
help you build and order your perfect car.<br />
Every Genesis comes with five<br />
years’ peace of mind included. The<br />
comprehensive care plan includes<br />
warranty, scheduled services, roadside<br />
assistance as well as courtesy cars.<br />
OVERALL<br />
This is a phenomenal vehicle which<br />
stands tall alongside other makes in the<br />
class. More than once, we returned to<br />
the car in a car park to see it getting an<br />
admiring look over - it certainly does turn<br />
heads and has an elegant presence. It’s<br />
equally comfortable in the city and on<br />
country roads - it really does offer the<br />
best of all worlds.<br />
AWD Dual Motor Sport £65,105 (OTR).<br />
To start your journey with Genesis<br />
please look at the website<br />
www.genesis.com<br />
38 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Frost<br />
A TOUCH OF<br />
Gardening is in Adam Frost’s<br />
blood. The popular BBC<br />
Gardeners’ World presenter<br />
spent much of his Essex<br />
childhood learning how to grow<br />
plants at his grandparents’<br />
gardens and allotments. No<br />
surprise then that a career in<br />
horticulture beckoned. Lisa<br />
Rockliffe caught up with him after<br />
his summer show season...<br />
I understand your introduction to<br />
gardening was from early childhood?<br />
“Yeah I had a really difficult childhood<br />
so I spent a lot of time with my<br />
grandparents. I talk about my ‘Tidy<br />
Nan’ and my ‘Scruffy Nan’. ‘Tidy Nan’<br />
had an allotment and that taught<br />
me about growing your own food.<br />
‘Scruffy Nan’ had this wilderness<br />
outside her back door I could explore.<br />
There was the care and being looked<br />
after and guided by ‘Tidy Nan’ and<br />
whilst ‘Scruffy Nan’ looked after me<br />
too I had a lot of freedom. That is<br />
how it all started for me.”<br />
You seem keen, when you are<br />
presenting, to want to demystify<br />
gardening, “I was sold gardening on<br />
the basis that I could be a gardener,<br />
a chef or I could join the army. They<br />
were my options. Once you get<br />
involved you wonder why it was sold<br />
to you as the option for someone<br />
who wasn’t such a bright spark,<br />
which unfortunately it was back<br />
then, so when I’m stood in front of<br />
a camera I just want people to have<br />
a go. If I can keep it simple and<br />
explain things in four words not 10,<br />
I’ll use four.”<br />
Many people are put off because<br />
they think it’s too hard, and there’s<br />
too much Latin! “Exactly. We’re told<br />
if we don’t prune something on the<br />
third Wednesday in March the whole<br />
world’s going to come to an end and<br />
in reality it doesn’t. You don’t need<br />
to know the Latin names or how to<br />
pronounce them, as long as you can<br />
make yourself understood it really<br />
doesn’t matter. The plant just wants<br />
you to look after it, it’s not worried<br />
about how you pronounce its name.”<br />
Does he have any tried and tested<br />
combinations that he returns to in<br />
each garden that he does. “No but I<br />
do have certain plants that I call ‘Get<br />
out of Jail’ plants. For instance if I<br />
look at small garden trees I look at<br />
things like amelanchier and cornus<br />
mas, they work really hard. If I look<br />
at shrubs I love species roses, I<br />
love cotinus because of the foliage<br />
and the backdrop and the colours<br />
you can get it in. When it comes to<br />
herbaceous plants hardy geraniums<br />
are always great, astrantias are<br />
always good because they’re so<br />
long flowering”<br />
I imagine your love for gardening is a<br />
constantly evolving process? “Yeah<br />
it’s never finished. I have a continuing<br />
fascination with the natural world<br />
and as we look forward we are facing<br />
environmental challenges that we<br />
haven’t faced really before, and we<br />
are considering how gardens affect<br />
us emotionally and physically in a<br />
way that we haven’t really thought<br />
about much before. All that side of<br />
it is fascinating to understand and<br />
be part of – the human connection<br />
to gardening.” Has his view on that<br />
changed since Covid? “No not really,<br />
Covid gave me more time to be with<br />
my family and in my garden so I had<br />
that, but I always knew that gardens<br />
can fix us and can be major parts of<br />
our lives. Covid just gave me time to<br />
realise that it was more important to<br />
me than perhaps I thought it was.”<br />
Was it nice to see everyone else<br />
notice it too? “Oh that was incredible.<br />
If there was one positive to come out<br />
of the madness that was Covid it was<br />
the 2 to 3 million new gardeners. I<br />
covered a few Gardeners’ Worlds that<br />
Monty couldn’t do and my daughter<br />
and I did a weekly thing on Instagram<br />
and it was great, I felt like we were<br />
having conversations with gardeners,<br />
so many of them new, and it was an<br />
uplifting thing. If you love something<br />
and other people want to come to the<br />
party things don’t get much better<br />
than that do they.”<br />
What really excites you in the<br />
garden? “I always talk about my veg<br />
garden being my hobby, which is<br />
a bit sad given how I make a living<br />
but it is. I love growing and cooking<br />
so I’ll spend my time in my front<br />
garden with my veggies.” Is he more<br />
a veg man than a flower man then?<br />
“I’m both really, I make my living<br />
designing gardens for people and I<br />
love putting combinations together<br />
and planting things and designing<br />
spaces but actually just on a<br />
personal level at the weekend, I love<br />
going out and planting a few veg,<br />
playing with it, cooking for the family.<br />
And that is more a hobby level really<br />
– the ornamentals are the day job.<br />
It’s also quite good if you say that<br />
on telly because when you make<br />
mistakes it doesn’t really matter!”<br />
40 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Quality Gates and<br />
Garage Doors<br />
Friendly, family run business,<br />
established for 23 years with an<br />
excellent reputation for quality<br />
and service.<br />
Please contact us for a no<br />
obligation quote<br />
Full fitting service available<br />
Unit 1,<br />
Slader Business Park,<br />
Witney Road,<br />
Nuffield Industrial<br />
Estate,<br />
Poole, BH17 0GP<br />
Contact us today 01202 670770 | sales@woodengatemakers.co.uk<br />
www.woodengatemakers.co.uk f<br />
Image Hypnos Beds<br />
LEADING BRANDS AT<br />
AMAZING PRICES<br />
“Over 25 Mattresses to try from leading<br />
manufacturers such as Hypnos, Kaymed,<br />
Mlily, Dormeo and many more...”<br />
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY<br />
FREE ONSITE PARKING<br />
OLD BED / MATTRESS DISPOSAL AVAILABLE<br />
<strong>New</strong> shop now open!<br />
Unit 1, 23 Salisbury Road, Amesbury, SP4 7AW<br />
www.elitebedsandmattressesdirect.co.uk<br />
Thatcham: Unit 9, Wyvale Garden<br />
Centre, Bath Road, Thatcham,<br />
RG18 3AN • Tel : 01635 897665<br />
Devizes: l & 2 Windsor Drive, Devizes,<br />
SNlO 2TH • Tel: 01380 887943<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 41
MIND & BODY WELLBEING<br />
<strong>New</strong> Age UK research uncovers deeply troubling levels of<br />
mental ill-health among people in their fifties and over<br />
in later life<br />
A new report from the charity Age<br />
UK, ‘I just feel like no one cares’,<br />
paints a really worrying picture<br />
of the mental health challenges<br />
facing many members of our older<br />
population (people aged 50 plus).<br />
For the first time in this series of<br />
regular reports, Age UK’s data<br />
collection included people aged over<br />
50, rather than focusing solely on<br />
those aged 60 plus. The report helps<br />
to identify a wide range of factors<br />
that are impacting the wellbeing of<br />
older people and highlights how<br />
mental health challenges for specific<br />
sub-groups such as women, people<br />
with long term health conditions,<br />
carers and those living in deprived<br />
areas, are a lot more pronounced<br />
than for others.<br />
Another report published last week<br />
by the Centre for Mental Health -<br />
commissioned by Age UK – showed<br />
how older people are being left<br />
behind by inadequate mental health<br />
services, ageism and the absence<br />
of any national strategic approach<br />
for supporting them. This new Age<br />
UK report, ‘I Just Feel Like No One<br />
Cares’, reinforces the urgent need<br />
to take this issue seriously as our<br />
population ages and, as the report<br />
highlights, due to the significant,<br />
often disregarded needs of those in<br />
their fifties who are still very much of<br />
working age but approaching their<br />
later lives. Nationally representative<br />
polling[i] carried out for Age UK in<br />
September 2023 found:<br />
The entire 50 plus population:<br />
• Almost a third (31%) said that<br />
their physical health had got<br />
worse over the previous 12<br />
months, with (16%) finding it<br />
harder to look after themselves.<br />
• More than two in five (45%) said<br />
they had less energy; more than<br />
one in three (35%) said they<br />
couldn’t walk so far; and almost<br />
one in three (32%) said they<br />
were in more physical pain.<br />
• Almost two in five (39%) people<br />
aged 50 and over reported not<br />
sleeping well, and more than a<br />
third (34% - 8.7 million) told us<br />
that they felt less motivated to<br />
do things that they enjoy.<br />
• Almost half (48%) of unpaid<br />
carers aged 50 and over had<br />
felt anxious, more than a third<br />
(34%) had felt overwhelmed,<br />
and more than a fifth (21%) had<br />
felt lonely because of the care<br />
or support they provide.<br />
• One in eight (13%) people<br />
aged 50 and over were rarely<br />
or never having social contact<br />
with others in person, over the<br />
phone, or online.<br />
Find more resources and support<br />
at ageuk.org.uk<br />
HOW TO HELP<br />
The report from Age UK makes<br />
stark reading - but there are lots<br />
of ways to support feelings of<br />
wellbeing - we have just a few<br />
suggestions:<br />
EXERCISE It’s well<br />
understood that activity, particularly<br />
resistance training, can be hugely<br />
beneficial for retaining muscle<br />
mass, helping us age better. You<br />
could start at a gym under the<br />
instruction of a PT, or even start at<br />
home, using household items like<br />
water bottles or cans as weights.<br />
If nothing else, aim for 5 minutes<br />
- more than likely you’ll feel like<br />
doing more once you start.<br />
SOCIAL We are social<br />
creatures by nature, but as we<br />
age, those circles can get smaller.<br />
Forming new, regular connections<br />
is essential. Age UK’s website has<br />
a directory for social activities -<br />
also check local bulletin boards.<br />
Workshops or short courses in a<br />
hobby you enjoy is also a great<br />
way to meet people.<br />
MINDSET It’s hard<br />
to heal the body without the<br />
mind - mindfulness helps<br />
hugely. Yoga classes provide a<br />
helpful framework - and a group<br />
environment is helpful.<br />
[i] Age UK Polling: Kantar Research Express conducted an online self completion survey between 7th September and 21st September 2023<br />
amongst 2,621 adults in the UK aged 50+.<br />
42 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
9.7<br />
Average Group<br />
Review score <strong>2024</strong><br />
carehome.co.uk**<br />
*T&C’s apply. Please see website for details<br />
** carehome.co.uk scores are based on independent reviews with<br />
a maximum score of 10. Rating correct as at 07/06/<strong>2024</strong><br />
“The staff are lovely and the<br />
management is so supportive of<br />
the residents.”<br />
Mayflower Court relative review<br />
In a 2023 survey of all our care homes, when asked if<br />
‘Staff treat them with kindness, dignity and respect’,<br />
98.2% of family and friends agreed.<br />
3 weeks for 2 on shorter stays*<br />
Mayflower Court luxury care home<br />
62-70 Westwood Road,<br />
Southampton, Hampshire SO17 1DP<br />
Call 02381 683 271<br />
Visit www.MayflowerCourt.org.uk<br />
Orchard Gardens luxury care home<br />
1 Garnier Drive, Bishopstoke,<br />
Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 6HE<br />
Call 02380 984 651<br />
Visit www.OrchardGardens.org.uk
Quality care in<br />
Sway you can trust<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
When a family is thinking about care<br />
for a loved one, they want the best -<br />
they want to know that the care home<br />
they choose will put their loved one’s<br />
safety, happiness and wellbeing first...<br />
Sway Place is managed by award-winning provider Care UK -<br />
one of the UK’s most highly successful care home operators*<br />
with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high quality care<br />
to older people.<br />
<strong>Living</strong> at Sway Place is all about quality of life. Every<br />
colleague in the home is passionate about enabling residents<br />
to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique<br />
needs and preferences. The lifestyle team organises a huge<br />
variety of group and one-to-one activities, with plenty going<br />
on each day.<br />
With the extra support that our care home offers, new<br />
residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether<br />
that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed<br />
in the past, or even discovering new hobbies with our daily<br />
activities.<br />
The purpose-built home is designed for enjoying a luxury<br />
lifestyle, with en-suite rooms and facilities including a café<br />
bistro, hair and beauty salon, and comfortable lounges and a<br />
grand dining room. The home also boasts stunning gardens<br />
with wheelchair friendly pathways – the perfect place to<br />
spend some time when the weather allows.<br />
Sway Place care home<br />
Church Lane Hampshire,<br />
Sway SO41 6AD<br />
01590 608 130<br />
careuk.com/sway-place<br />
*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care<br />
Inspectorate in Scotland.<br />
Help at hand with the press<br />
of a button 24 hours a day<br />
50% off an installation<br />
with code ‘NEWFOREST’<br />
Always at the end<br />
of the phone for you<br />
Helping to keep you<br />
independent at home<br />
A helping hand<br />
when you need it most<br />
Staying connected<br />
so you’re never alone<br />
023 8028 5523<br />
appletree.careline@nfdc.gov.uk • newforest.gov.uk/appletreecareline<br />
44 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Join us for<br />
our next<br />
event<br />
Sway Place care home, Sway<br />
Carers café<br />
First Wednesday of every month<br />
1.30pm - 3pm<br />
Join us for our regular support group at Sway<br />
Place. This valuable support group is a perfect<br />
place for carers to take a much-needed break,<br />
meet other people and freely share<br />
experiences. Our friendly team at Sway Place<br />
will also be on hand to offer support and<br />
advice. You will also be treated to homemade<br />
cakes and treats and light refreshments,<br />
prepared by our Head Chef.<br />
Trusted to care.<br />
To attend please call<br />
01590 608 130 or email<br />
laura.blake@careuk.com
Ratteeed<br />
Exceeelllleeentt<br />
Looking into care<br />
for a loved one?<br />
NEW<br />
website<br />
If you are increasingly becoming a<br />
carer for a loved one, maybe it’s time<br />
to think about home care support.<br />
Worried about how to arrange care for<br />
a loved one? We know how difficult it<br />
can be to find the right care support for<br />
a loved one, especially when they wish<br />
to continue living at home.<br />
Understanding the range of care<br />
options can be difficult, especially<br />
when you are already juggling work<br />
and life; not to mention the added<br />
responsibility of becoming a carer for a<br />
loved one.<br />
Fortunately, it’s not what you know, but<br />
who. At Agincare, we have a team of<br />
care experts on the end of the phone<br />
ready to help you find home care that’s<br />
right for your loved one.<br />
Our professional and experienced team<br />
can guide you through the steps and<br />
will remain your point of contact<br />
throughout the process. What’s more,<br />
as a fully managed provider, our team<br />
of experts in your community will take<br />
care of the details.<br />
No need to make sure your chosen care<br />
worker is trained or arrives on time.<br />
We will take care of that. We will even<br />
provide real time updates on the care<br />
provided via our app.<br />
Why Agincare?<br />
Delivering high quality care since 1986<br />
Trial period and no lengthy contracts<br />
Immediate and emergency starts<br />
Fully managed service with local office<br />
team<br />
Range of care services nationwide<br />
Talk to our team today<br />
01425 383825<br />
agincare.com
Are you financially<br />
supporting loved<br />
ones?<br />
A case study:<br />
Brian financially<br />
supports his adult son at<br />
university, as well as studying<br />
his own degree, but still has<br />
ambitions to make the most of his<br />
retirement by travelling.<br />
With so many plans and commitments,<br />
on top of the cost-of-living crisis, Brian<br />
took advice from an expert.<br />
Contact our Southampton team to<br />
find out how Charles Stanley<br />
helped him achieve his goals.<br />
southampton@charles-stanley.co.uk<br />
or call 023 8098 4345<br />
The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors<br />
may get back less than invested. Charles Stanley & Co. Limited<br />
is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.