Living Along the Thames - May/June 2017

MARLOW
FACE+BODY
Marlow’s private luxury medi-spa
High-end
High-end
face
face &
body
body
treatments
treatments
at
at
affordable
affordable
prices
prices
CoolTech® Fat Freezing £395
CoolTech® Fat Freezing £395
Same results as Coolsculpting®
Same results as Coolsculpting®
Alma Accent Prime TM
Alma Accent Prime TM
Fillers Wrinkle relaxing injections from £180
Fillers & Wrinkle relaxing injections from £180
Silhouette® PDO Thread Lift
Silhouette® & PDO Thread Lift
REVIV® Vitamin IV’s
REVIV® Vitamin IV’s
01628 30 20 28 24 Meadow View, Marlow
01628 30 20 28 24 Meadow View, Marlow
www.marlow.clinic

Welcome
Well it seems like only yesterday that ‘Spring had
Sprung’ and now as the days get longer we all are
looking forward to the warmer weather that Summer
brings. I love this time of year as it lifts the spirits
and it feels like a new beginning all over again!
We have a very full list of Diary Dates as we move towards
the social season, regatta’s and festivals are bountiful and we mustn’t forget the
opportunity to see two Opera’s in the open air of the gardens at Stubbings house.
With Ascot around the corner our fashion pages focus on what you can wear and
our beauty pages focus on the Summer months. Also, not to take away from the
fact that we all love to look tanned we have an article on moles and the danger of
sunbeds.
We have put together a small gift guide for Father’s Day on 18th June plus the
opportunity to win a couple of competitions, a foldable Frenzy scooter from
Skates.co.uk and a round of golf for four people at Temple Golf Club. Drop over
to page 56 for more details and to see how you can enter, Good Luck.
We have two great recipes for you to try, one from our very own Vanilla Pod, in
Marlow, Smoked lamb rump and Cauliflower along with a White Chocolate and
Raspberry Cheesecake from Mary Berry’s current TV series Mary Berry Everyday.
We hope you enjoy trying them out.
along the thames
Serena Edwards
Editor
ADVERTISING:
01628 627 488
CONTACT US:
Living Along the Thames Magazine
Studio 108, 5 High Street, Maidenhead,
Berks SL6 1JN
Tel: 01628 627 488
Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk
CONTRIBUTORS:
Dru Ross, Arzu Kara, Christine Chalklin,
Karine Jackson, Katy Dunn,
Jacky & Mark Bloomfield
ACCOUNTS:
Jo Murphy
jo@Snapdragonaccounting.co.uk
DESIGNED BY:
Digital Bear Design
Tel: 01949 839206
mat@digitalbear.co.uk
LOVE MAGAZINES?:
subscribe to 6 copies for £18 a year
www.VividTitles.co.uk/magazine
View our recent editions online at:
www.VIVIDTITLES.co.uk
FOLLOW US:
@AlongtheThames
Congratulations to all our winners of the
All about Dogs show held at Newbury
Showground and Maria Moore, who has
won the family pass to the last day of the
Henley Festival to.
We hope you enjoy reading this bumper
edition and until next time….
May - June 2017 www.vividtitles.co.uk
along the thames
LIKE US:
LivingAlongTheThames
FOLLOW US:
AlongtheThamesUK
To advertise within Living Along the
Thames Magazine contact us at:
Office@AlongTheThames.co.uk
Visit us at www.vividtitles.co.uk
Front Cover courtesy of LiquidLeisure.com
MARLOW | HENLEY | MAIDENHEAD | COOKHAM | BOURNE END
PEFC Certified
Living Along the Thames is hand delivered into
12,000 ABC1 homes every two months in Henley,
Maidenhead, Marlow, Cookham and Bourne End.
Magazines can be picked up in Marlow at D&J
Newsagents, Swish Boutique, the Information
centre, Cedar café & Quad Club. Henley at the
Library, Regal Theatre & Town Hall.Maidenhead
at the Library, Council Offices, U-Want &Temple
Golf Club. Cookham at the Library. Bourne
End at The Library and Community Centre.
Produced by Living Along The Thames Magazines.
All Rights reserved. No part of this magazine
may be reproduced without the prior written
permission of the Publisher and is protected by
copyright. The views expressed in Living Along
the Thames magazine are not necessarily the
views of the editor/publisher. Whilst every effort
has been made to ensure quality and content, the
publisher cannot be held responsible for errors
in articles, advertisements and photographs.
PEFC/16-33-254
This product is
from sustainably
managed forests and
controlled sources
www.pefc.org
Copyright © May/June 2017
Living Along the Thames 2017
ISSN 2398-9343
4 |
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
5 |

START ‘EM
YOUNG
Money skills are a vital part of everyday life - and new research
underlines why it pays to start learning from an early age.
The Government-backed Money Advice Service (MAS) found
that children whose parents involved them in discussions and
decisions about money, and allowed them to experience using
money from as young as four, are more likely to develop vital
financial skills.
These skills can have a big impact on their ability to save, budget
and plan ahead financially well into their adult life.
Kirsty Bowman-Vaughan, a children and young people expert
at the MAS, says parents shouldn’t be afraid of starting money
conversations from an early age - as that’s when they can have the
most impact.
She says: “We know that parents might feel as though they’re
protecting their children by not talking to them about money, yet
helping children to understand how to save and handle money is
one of the most important things parents can do to ensure their
long-term financial security.”
The MAS found children who didn’t have a say in spending their
own money were less likely to save.
When 12 to 17-year-olds were asked how they would use £100,
those whose parents decide how their money is spent were likely to
save the smallest amounts - typically around £53.65. Those whose
parents included them in money discussions were likely to save an
average of around 20% more than this, the research found.
Young people in this age group whose parents decide how they
spend their money were also nearly five times more likely to say
that borrowing money didn’t bother them - even if they had no
plans to pay it back - at 19% against 4% who make spending
decisions on their own or with their parents.
The MAS says parents have a key role to play in helping their
children learn the basics of money management. Nearly threequarters
(74%) of children say they talk to their parents about
money.
But a quarter (24%) of parents surveyed thought they should wait
until their children were in secondary school before teaching them
the importance of saving.
A further 31% of parents of 16 to 17-year-olds say they don’t set
and stick to money rules with their teenager. And 17% rarely or
never speak to them about the risks of getting into debt.
ACTIVITIES AND COURSES
FOR CHILDREN DURING
THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
SIR WILLIAM BORLASE’S,
MARLOW, SL7 2BR
MONDAY - FRIDAY, 8AM - 6PM
FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 4 - 12
OFSTED REGISTERED
SAVE 10% ON STANDARD
RATES WITH CODE SC10
FROM
£36
PER DAY
6 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Marlow Town Regatta & Festival 2017
Marlow’s Premier Summer Sporting and Social Occasion is looking
forward to opening its gates on the 10th & 11th June 2017.
The two day event presents a Traditional Rowing Regatta & Garden
Party in an idyllic river setting on Saturday. Enjoy picnicking within
a tranquil environment, accompanied by the buzz of the competition!
On Sunday, we are delighted to welcome back Dragon Boat Racing -
along with an array of family inspired attractions and Trade
& Craft Stalls all planned to create a fun filled family day out.
Jim Campbell
Riverside Dining
Hosted by
Saturday 10th June - Traditional Rowing Races, Round
Table Riverside Bar, Jim Campbell Riverside Dining, varied food
providers, Marlow FM 97.5 Live Music Stage.
Badges purchased in advance £10 Adults (18 and over), £7 Youth (14-17),
£5 Child (5-13). Car parking available on the cricket/football field at £5.
Sunday 11th June - Dragon Boat Racing, Round Table
Riverside Bar, Marlow FM 97.5 Live Music Stage, Family Fun.
FREE ENTRANCE, Car parking available on the football field at £5.
For full details and badge purchase go to www.marlowtownregatta.org or
Marlow Information Centre, Marlow Library, Institute Road - 01628 483597.
To book your table within Jim Campbell Riverside Dining, please visit
www.madebymark.net or call Mark on 07930 179062

Learn to ROW
Want to try your hand at Rowing?
Maidenhead Rowing Club runs a series of adult (18+) Learn to Row courses aimed at those who
have never rowed before and fancy giving it a go, run by experienced coaches who are British
Rowing accredited.
Learn to Row Courses in 2017
Evening Course
Mondays and Wednesdays
6.30pm - 8.30pm (Open age group).
Daytime Course
Tuesdays and Thursdays
9.30am -11.30am (Open age group).
Course Overview
We will teach you the basics of sculling
(an oar in each hand) to a determined level
in wide and stable boats along with the
option to go out in a single scull,
dependent on river conditions.
The Cost: For the Learn to Row Stage
1 course is £175.00 per person, which
includes membership of the Club for the
duration of the course.
We have a few places remaining on some of the courses or to find out more about the
best adult course for you, email Marion Holmes at learn2row@maidenheadrc.org.uk.
JUNIORS – For all enquiries regarding Junior Learn to Row (12-18’s), contact
junior-membership@maidenheadrc.org.uk.
If you would like to use the clubhouse and bar facilities or use the indoor rowing gym
then there are social memberships available - www.maidenheadrc.org.uk.
British Rowing Certified. Maidenhead Rowing Club is one of the major rowing
clubs in the country to hold British Rowing accreditation as a Learn to
Row Centre.
Please note that rowing is a physical sport and there will be some lifting
and carrying of boats at each session. In addition you must be able to
swim at least 50 metres in light clothing to undertake these courses.
10 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

THE
MOZART’S
Marriage
of Figaro
Friday 21st July
La
PUCCINI’S
boheme
Saturday 22nd July
Enjoy a summer picnic within the stunning private grounds of Stubbings Estate followed
by a performance of a popular opera by acclaimed touring company, Opera Brava.
A perfect July summer’s evening for opera newcomers, and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Tickets:
Early Booking (before June 1st 2017)
Adults £45.00, Children (aged 5-16) £20.00
After June 1st: Adults £50.00, Children £25.00
Gates open for picnics at 5.30pm
Performances commence at 7.30pm.
Hampers and Corporate Hospitality
available - please see online for details.
Performances sung in English and accompanied by Chamber Ensemble
Box Office: 01628 820140 or buy online at
www.stubbingsopera.co.uk
Stubbings Estate l Henley Road l Maidenhead l SL6 6QL
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
11 |

How to Dress up for
ASCOT RACES
For those of us, who love to go to the races
it’s that time of the year again. Where else,
would it be perfectly normal to wear a
hat that’s bigger than your body
circumference!
Dorothy Perkins
Embellished Clutch B
£32
The dress code, as long as your
shoulders are covered or your straps are
wider than an inch you will be allowed to
go in. I am with the ladies who favour the
elegant look. Simple but a beautifully cut
dress that is on the knee is what you should
be looking for. You can then experiment
and go wild with your hat and feel rather
regal for a day! Ordinarily one would
choose wedges for such an occasion but
hey who says looking stylish is always
comfortable! We have chosen super
versatile but gorgeous pieces to choose
from or give you inspiration. Enjoy
dressing up, drinking lots of champagne
and oh don’t forget to watch the races!
Liz Felix
purple Hat - POA
Links of London
Treasured 18kt
Rose Gold Vermeil,
Champagne & Blue
Diamond Stud Earrings
£295
V By Very
Mini Platform Minimal Sandal Rose Gold
Glitter (Venice)
£25
12 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Court - jewelled heels
Dune London
Buds - £90
Liz Felix
felt hat - POA
Links of London
Thames 18kt Rose Gold
Vermeil Bracelet £150
Folli Folli
Sunglasses
£100
No. 25 of Bourne End
Taffeta dress by Ispirato
£295
G.H. Mumm
Rose NV
Champagne
£27.99
Accessorize
Kyoto Beaded Hardcase
£49
Wedged Sandals
Dune London
Maitai £85
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
13 |

Return of
THE PERM
I think the most common misconception with perms is that
you’ll wake up with beautifully perfect curly hair everyday
- in reality, you’ll still need to look after the hair properly
and style it to an extent to keep it in check. It needs to settle
in in the morning, it will look straight if you lay on it, it will
go frizzy if you brush it, if you wear a scarf all the time that
will flatten the area it’s sitting on. Most of it is rectifiable by
wetting down and adding mouse but is important to know
how to style it.
Mousse or a similar styling product is an absolute must have
for styling a perm, you can’t wash and go!
Think about the reason you’re getting the perm - do you
want actual curls or just waves and volume - communicate
this to your stylist and use images to show the type of hair
you want, it’s important to make sure this is a realistic result.
Everybody’s hair is different so we can’t predict exactly what
the perm will do, and this means they can last for different
amounts of time, anything from 8 weeks to 6 months is
normal.
It’s one to avoid if your hair is bleached or stressed as it may
not be strong enough to hold a curl.
e’ve had so many requests for perms and volumising
services recently – around 4 a day. The perm is definitely
back, but it’s much softer and gentler than before. I think
the word perm brings up connotations of that super curly
old-style perm but technology (and thankfully taste!) has moved on,
says Karine Jackson
New Generation Perming
We’ve just launched a new perm in our salon, which is ammonia and
thioglycoate free, instead containing a special additive that changes the
natural pH level of the hair allowing the creation of a fresh clean curl.
The process is the same as a salon perm but is much softer on the hair.
We always carry out a stretch test as well as a strand test in our perm
consultations so we can come up with the best curl, manage expectations
and identify what the hair is lacking (be it moisture or protein).
We generally recommend a prescriptive course of shampoos and
conditioners prior to the service to prep the hair.
If you’re considering a perm, do your research and book a consultation
in a salon. We cut a small section of your hair off and perm it so we can
see how it takes. If hair has a barrier on it from a build up of silicone
product (many high street shampoos contain this for example), the
solution won’t be able to penetrate it and you’ll need to use a good
clarifying shampoo for around a month to break the coating down.
In some people’s hair, the bond just doesn’t break down
sufficiently, so it simply won’t take - this will be apparent
with the perm strand test. If you’ve had an anaesthetic
recently, or are on heavy medication such as antibiotics, they
change the composition of the hair. This means your hair
could react one way on one day, and completely differently
3 days later, so it might be worth waiting until everything’s
left your system.
Curl jargon decoded
Confused by all the terms? Read on for the technical terms
and explanations.
WEAVE WIND – This gives your roots a lift and a kick
rather than actual waves and curls.
ROOT PERM – This is amazing for flat or fine hair because
it lifts the roots rather than making the hair look curly or
wavy. This is a great option if your hair has very little or no
body and is difficult to style because it won’t hold volume.
PERM – While old-fashioned small perm rollers are 0.5cm,
salons can now use up to a 2.5cm bendy roller, which is
massive in comparison! This ensures a large curl or wave
which can still be straightened using irons if you want a
change.
DROP WIND – By leaving 2 inches from the crown the
style is flat on top but gives body and curls on the sides.
www.karinejackson.co.uk
14 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

No.25 of Bourne End are specialists for Mother of the
Bride/Groom. Ascot, Special Occasion and Cruise Wear
with over 800 outfits in stock. We are the Premier
stockist of Condici and Ann Balon in the U.K.
Other labels include Capri by Mon Cherie,
Vena Infantillo by Ronald Joyce, Ispirato,
Ian Stuart, Lewis Henry and Luis Civit.
Many outfits at reduced prices.
To complement your outfit we have Leather Shoes
and Bags, Hats and Fascinators to buy.
25 The Parade, Bourne End,
Buckinghamshire SL8 5SB
Tel: 01628 528877
Open Monday to Sunday 9:30am to 5pm.
See website for Sunday Opend days
www.No25BourneEnd.co.uk
10 mins from Jct.4 of M40 and Jct. 8/9 of M4
You are welcome to visit us to view, try on and purchase at any time,

summer
beauty
Hill & Noble Sweet
Jasmine Hand Cream
| £5 |
www.boots.com
Missguided Babe Power
Fragrance | £28 80ml |
www.missguided.co.uk
Clarins Instant Light Lip
Comfort Oil | 4 flavours | £19
Clarins Limited Edition
Bronzer Compact | £30
Clarins Limited Edition 4
Colour Eyeshadow Palette | £34
www.clarins.com
Katherine Daniels Slimming
Contour Gel 200ml | £27.50 |
www.Katherinedanielscosmetics.com
Murad MattEffect Perfector
| £32 | www.murad.co.uk
Natura Siberica Tonic Shower Gel 400ml
£3.90 | Oblepikha Honey Body Scrub 300ml £6 |
Smoothing Heel Foot Balm 75ml £4.30 |
www.naturasiberica.co.uk
Super facialist Radiance
Day Cream | £14.99 |
Super Facialist Skin Renew
Cleansing Oil | £10.99 |
Super Facialist Lift Night
Cream | £16.99 |
www.boots.com
16 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Perricone MD No Makeup Makeup | No Foundation
Foundation - 2 shades – RRP £45 | No Bronzer Bronzer
- £29 | No Blush Blush – RRP £29 | No Highlighter
Highlighter - £29 | Photo Plasma - £59 |
www.perriconemd.co.uk
Dr Hauschka Colour Correcting Powder - £25
Dr Hauschka Eye Definer – 7 colours - £14.75
Dr Hauschka Volume Mascara – 3 shades - £21
Dr Hauschka Lipstick – 18 shades - £20.50
www.drhauschka.co.uk
iZ Blooming Beautiful nail varnish collection | wild
sage 6ml | Forget me Not 6ml | Wisteria Lane 6ml |
Lily Romance 6ml | £6 | www.izbeauty.co.uk
Vivderma Detox Elixir
| £85 | www.vivderma.com
Mary Kay Botanical Effects
Refreshing Toner | £13.99 |
www.marykay.com
Lash Perfect black
Mascara | £12.50 |
www.lashperfect.co.uk
DAFNI Go | compact, travel-friendly
hair straightening brush | £99.95 |
www.johnlewis.com | www.harveynichols.com
Sukin Renewing Body Scrub 200ml - £11.95 | Sukin Self
Tanning Sunless Bronzing Gel 200ml - £14.95 | Sukin
Hydrating Mist Toner 125ml - £7.95 | Sukin Aloe Vera Gel
125ml £7.95 | Sukin Natural Deodorant 125ml £7.95 |
www.hollandandbarrett.com | www.boots.com
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
17 |

how to avoid
diet-induced
DENTAL DAMAGE
ow, we’re not going to make
any crazy statements - like,
‘Fruit’s just as bad as sweets!’,
or, ‘Juicing wrecks your teeth!’
- because that would be over-dramatic and
misleading.
But it is true that dentists have noticed
how certain ‘healthy eating’ or weight-loss
and detox trends are taking a toll on the
nation’s dental health.
It’s even affecting children, with a recent
report published by the Royal College
of Surgeons stating record numbers
of under-fives are having rotten teeth
removed - with fruity snacks among the
culprits.
So what are the health trends, ‘harmless’
habits and diets causing damage, and what
can you do to avoid it?
Hot water and lemon
Starting the day with a hot water and fresh
lemon - a traditional detox method - is
seeing a popularity resurgence right now,
with fans boasting flatter stomachs and
glowing complexions as a result. But
Shona Wilkinson, nutritionist at
SuperfoodUK.com, warns: “Watch out
for the advice on drinking warm lemon
juice in the mornings. Lemon juice can
cause problems with the enamel on teeth.
It is great to have warm water with lemon
- but,” she suggests, “drink it through a
straw to help prevent tooth damage.”
Munching ice
Zero calories for a satisfying crunch - but
munching ice cubes isn’t as harmless as
it seems. “Some people add ice to their
drinks to increase their hydration levels.
This is great and anything which increases
water intake is good, but don’t crunch or
bite on the ice. This is a common habit,
but can leave your teeth vulnerable to
damage,” says Wilkinson. “Let the ice
melt and sip your drink to help increase
your hydration levels.”
Sirtfood stains
One of the more recent celeb-backed
trends, the Sirtfood Diet focuses on
ingredients rich in ‘sirtuin activators’, said
to keep cells healthy when under stress
and aid in metabolic function - and coffee
and red wine are on the menu. “Drinks
such as coffee and red wine are some of
the worst culprits for teeth staining,”
notes Dr Sameer Patel, clinical director at
specialist dental and orthodontic practice,
elleven. “This staining’s amplified when
consumed on a regular basis, as tannin
compounds build up and cause teeth to
turn yellowish. To avoid the problem,
rinse the mouth with water after
consumption, to wash away tannins.”
Green tea
Packed full of health-boosting
antioxidants, calorie and fat-free, it’s
little wonder green tea has become so
popular. But, while not as bad as
coffee, it can cause staining. “Make sure
you don’t swish the tea around your
mouth - just drink it straight down,”
advises Wilkinson.
Fruit smoothies and juices
It’s nonsense to demonise fruit - a
vital source of nutrients and fibre - but
the surge in popularity of juicing and
smoothies, in regimes promising speedy
weight-loss and detoxing, has impacted
the nation’s dental health, leading to a rise
in enamel erosion, sensitivity and decay.
“Natural sugars can erode tooth enamel
and lead to decay,” says Dr Patel. “Fruit’s
natural sugar, fructose, is a common cause
of cavities as the bacteria in the mouth feed
on it, so using a straw and keeping your
mouth refreshed with regular glasses
of water after consumption, is key.”
Wilkinson adds: “If you do have a fruit
juice, drink it through a straw to help
prevent this damage. Even better -
swap to a vegetable smoothie.” This often
applies to sports drinks, too.
Bad gums
Consuming too much natural sugar can
also be a factor in poor gum health. “Diets
which promote a high sugar intake can
cause insulin levels to peak and then
plummet which, over time, alters the
structure of collagen in the body and in
the long-term can affect your gums, as
it’s collagen fibres that hold your teeth in
place,” says Dr Patel. “To limit damage,
drink juices through a straw and try to wait
at least 30 minutes before brushing your
teeth [after eating/drinking]. It’s also
important to ensure you’re brushing teeth
up to the gum line, to remove
trapped food and bacteria.”
Bad breath
Drastically cutting calories, as well as
following a high-protein/low-carb diet,
can both cause bad breath - due to
chemicals, called keytones, being released
when you force your body into the fatburning
state of ketosis (remember when
Atkins first got popular and everyone was
talking about this?). Good oral hygiene
helps keep bad breath at bay, but if it’s
down to your diet, Dr Patel advises:
“Ketosis is brought on entirely by your
diet and, unfortunately, no amount of
flossing and brushing will combat the
smell, so think twice before cutting out
carbs completely and stick to healthy ones,
such as wholemeal pasta and wholemeal
bread to keep bad breath at bay.”
Nutritional shortfalls
It’s not just a case of what you do eat, but
what you don’t eat - and falling into the
trap of constant dieting, calorie-cutting
and eliminating food groups can lead
to nutritional deficiencies, including
vitamins, iron and calcium, which are
all-important for maintaining healthy teeth
and gums. A balanced diet, and two litres
of water a day, is the best bet, along with
good quality supplements if your diet is
lacking. If you do want to lose weight, slow
and steady wins the race.
18 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

The average adult is
Missing at least 2 teeth
Don’t hide your smile
You are not alone
We can help !
If you have missing teeth, your
other healthy teeth may sustain
more damage - you may also suffer
from bone loss
Dental Implants are now affordable
Call today to arrange your
Implants placed by an Oral
Surgeon
Interest free finance option
available
Call us for more details
FREE
Private Implant
Consultation
01628 488 499
www.laperlaclinic.co.uk
01628 488 499
44 Marlow Bottom (next to the Post Office) SL7 3NB
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
19 |

Salad of smoked
lamb rump and
cauliflower
Marinade
100g salt
50g sugar
10 juniper berries
5g coriander seed
3G fennel seed
3 cloves garlic
3sprigs rosemary
6 sprigs thyme
Marinade over night 6 lamb rumps
Remove from the marinade and place in a
stove top smoker . Place the smoker over
wood chipping onto the clippings add
some rosemary and bay leaf and place to
cook for 10 min. Remove smoker from
the stove and leave the lamb to rest inside
the smoker.
Pickled cauliflower
10g white balsamic vinegar
100g water
2Sliced banana shallots into circles
2g cumin seeds
5g fennel seeds
3g mustard seeds
Salt and pepper
20 florets of cauliflower( blanched )
Bring ingredients to the boil ad the
cauliflower and leave to infuse
Cauliflower purée
Using the rest of the cauliflower cook
in lightly salted water till soft and drain.
Leave for 3-4 min making sure all liquid
has gone
In a frying pan add olive oil and bring to
heat ad cauliflower and quickly reheat
with no colour add a touch of cream and
blend till it’s a purée .
Garnish the plate with pickled cauliflower
Cauliflower purée and mustard leaves
Use some of the smoked juice from the
lamb mixed with olive oil for the dressing
Happy cooking
Michael MacDonald, Chef Patron,
The Vanilla Pod, Marlow
www.theVanillaPod.co.uk
20 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

COMPLIMENTARY BOAT CRUISE
Join us for lunch in the André Garrett
Restaurant, Monday - Friday, throughout
May and enjoy a complimentary shared
river cruise...
From £33.00 per person
Taplow, Berkshire, SL6 0JF
Tel: 01628 607107
reservations@clivedenhouse.co.uk
www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

MEDITERRANEAN
mode
Beyond the sightseeing and sun soaking, one of the
pleasures of the Med is sampling the local cuisine,
and drinking the local plonk.
At least it is until you start navigating the wine list...
With so many interesting grape varieties,
who isn’t tempted to trade up and try
something new - even if you can’t
pronounce the name - rather than the
cheapo looking carafe of vino, with zero
character?!
After all, the ritual of selecting and
tasting the wine can be an adventure
in itself.
But if you’re short on time and
want to fast-track a Riviera lifestyle,
here are some time-honoured
favourites and refreshingly
different styles to whet your
appetite...
1. Exquisite Collection Cotes
de Provence Rose 2016,
France (£5.99, Aldi)
Our rose-coloured crush on
the wines of Provence shows
no sign of wavering, thanks
to pretty pinks that can be
very dry, very delicious,
and very dear. Best bet is
to reach for this corsetshaped
bottle that
has lovely floral aromas,
ample berry notes and
will leave you with enough
change for a bowl of olives.
2. Ca N’Estruc Xarel-lo
Catalunya 2015,
Spain (£10.95,
www.slurp.co.uk)
This Spanish beauty is
made from the xarel-lo
grape, pronounced
‘shah-rehl-loh’, which is
also used in cava production.
Utterly delicious with a flinty
character, it offers
generous aromatics of
florals entwined with
citrus, a textured palate
and melange of orchard
fruits, pear and melon,
lead to a long, clean
finish with a lemony
zing on the tail.
3. Santo Nykteri 2014,
Greece (£18.49,
www.laithwaites.co.uk)
Along with its volcanic sands, spectacular
views and famous sunsets, one of the
charms of Santorini is its ultra minerally,
bone dry whites. Made predominantly
from the assyrtiko (‘a-seer-tee-ko’) grape,
it’s rich (a smidgen of time in oak adds
body), with citrusy, blossom aromatics,
a well-crafted mix of ripe pear and citrus
fruits, and a mouth-watering freshness
that makes you want to take flight and
head to one of the island’s many wine
routes.
4. Golden Valley
Grasevina 2015, Croatia
(£9.50, Marks & Spencer,
in-store)
A land of vineyards,
Croatia produces an
equal number of whites
and reds. Grasevina
(‘gra-she-vi-na’),
otherwise known as
the Queen of Croatian
wine grapes, is the
dominant white
and this is a terrific
example. Pure and
fresh with attractive
florals and baskets
of ripe yellow apples,
juicy peach and a
fruity, limey tang, it’s
concentrated and
rich, but refreshingly
balanced.
5. Aemilia Shiraz
Vranec Petit Verdot
2013, Tikves,
Macedonia (£9.99,
Waitrose)
Macedonia’s flagship grape, vranec
has been cited as the next big red and it
certainly adds plenty of va-va-voom to this
bold blend. Vranec translates to ‘black
stallion’ which gives you an idea of the
flavour profile. A fruity bomb, it’s plush
and perfumed with violet and spicy scents,
generous blueberry and plummy flavours,
and a refreshing acidity reigns the berry
richness in.
6. Zensa Primitivo 2015,
Puglia, Italy (£9.95,
www.fromvineyardsdirect.com)
With just the right
measure of warmth, this is
a finely made wine in a
crowd-pleasing style.
Seriously good and quite
sumptuous, it offers
blueberry, raspberry
and black cherry fruit,
wild berry notes, and
vanilla and spice from
oak ageing. With each
sun-drenched sip, it
certainly suits if you l
ove Italian classics,
and it’s the perfect
pairing with pasta and
meatballs.
22 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
23 |

BERRY
BAKES
back
24 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Viewers were left bereft when Mary Berry
announced she wouldn’t be following
The Great British Bake Off’s move to
Channel 4.
But fear not, fans - five months on and the
Somerset-born cook, whose final GBBO hurrah
came in the form of a National Television Award
for Best TV Judge earlier this year, is back with
a new BBC Two TV series and accompanying
cookbook, Mary Berry Everyday, celebrating
items which have formed the cornerstone of her
cooking over six decades.
“I was thinking about, as the title suggests, the
everyday,” explains Berry 81, whose culinary
career started with training, aged 21, at Le
Cordon Bleu school, France. “Everyday can be
just with the family, it can mean having friends
around, it can be a special occasion.”
WHITE CHOCOLATE AND
RASPBERRY CHEESECAKE
(Serves 6-8)
For the base:
150g digestive biscuits
60g butter, plus extra for greasing
1tbsp demerara sugar
For the topping:
200g white chocolate
1 x 250g tub of full-fat mascarpone cheese
300ml pouring double cream
1tsp vanilla extract
500g fresh raspberries
1tbsp icing sugar
While the six-part series will follow Berry as
she travels to Scotland to enjoy the best of their
everyday larder; tries her hand at bee keeping;
and teaches her own grand-daughter to milk a
goat and make cheese, the tie-in tome will
document her own kitchen creations (120, to
be exact), alongside top tricks and tips.
With everything from hearty and wholesome, to
indulgent and easy crowd-pleasers on the menu,
it’s a catalogue that’s sure to please.
“All the recipes are tried out at home,” notes
the star, who reveals she welcomes constructive
criticism from her tight-knit family (Berry often
cooks for her husband, Paul Hunnings, and their
children and grandchildren).
“The children might say, ‘Oh yuck’, or someone
may say, ‘That takes too long to do’, and those
don’t go in the book,” she confides. “But I make
sure there aren’t too many of those!
“It’s important not to have too many ingredients
or pieces of equipment,” she adds. “I want to
inspire people to cook, and I do think a book is
a nice thing to have. I’m very lucky that people
trust me and that they have a go.”
With more than 70 titles under her belt, it’s safe
to say people do trust Berry - and fans will be
pleased to hear she isn’t hanging up her apron
strings any time soon.
“I’m not stepping back; I am doing different
things,” Berry insists, resolute in her choice to
keep busy.
“Maybe Mel, Sue and I will get down to
something...” she adds cryptically (the Bake Off
co-presenters also decided to quit the popular
series when the shock channel switch was
announced), though it’s unlikely to happen
overnight.
“I’ve got a new series on country houses coming
up, I’ll be doing a bit at Chelsea [Flower Show] I
expect, and I’ll be doing a new series for 2018,”
lists Berry.
“Don’t worry, I won’t be idle.”
Keep busy in the kitchen yourself, with these
three recipes from Berry’s new book...
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
You will need a 20cm round
spring-form tin with deep sides,
and a piping bag fitted with a plain
nozzle (optional). Butter the base of
the tin and line with a disc of baking
paper.
To make the base, measure the
biscuits into a resealable freezer bag
and use a rolling pin, or the base of a
saucepan, to crush into fine crumbs,
but still with a bit of texture.
Heat the butter in a small saucepan
over a low heat until just melted.
Add the crushed biscuits and sugar
and stir until combined. Spoon into
the base of the prepared tin and
press with the back of a spoon until
level. Chill in the fridge while you
make the topping.
Break the chocolate into a separate
bowl, and sit it on top of a pan of
simmering water. Stir until melted
but not hot, then leave for five to
10 minutes, until cool but still
liquid.
Meanwhile, tip the mascarpone into
a bowl, and mix with a spatula to
loosen so it is soft. Stir in the cream
and vanilla extract, stirring
with the spatula until smooth.
To make a coulis for the top of
the cheesecake, place half the
raspberries into a small blender or
food processor. Add the icing sugar
and whizz until runny, then pour through a
sieve to remove the seeds.
Pour the melted chocolate into the bowl
with the mascarpone mixture and stir to
combine, taking care not to over-mix.
Spoon half the white chocolate mixture on
to the biscuit base in the tin. Use the handle
of a teaspoon to make a few small holes in
the white chocolate mixture, pushing right
down to the top of the biscuit base.
Pour or pipe enough of the coulis into
the holes to fill them, setting aside the
remaining coulis for decorating the top of
the cheesecake. Spoon the remaining white
chocolate mixture on top and smooth and
level the top. Cover with cling film and chill
in the fridge for a minimum of six hours, or
ideally overnight.
To serve, arrange the rest of the raspberries
on top of the cheesecake and drizzle over
the remaining coulis. Run a palette knife
around the edges of the
tin before removing the
sides and base, and sit
it on a serving plate.
Mary Berry
Everyday published
by BBC Books, £26.
Available now
25 |

Loft ladders
supplied and installed from only
£149 plus vat.
01753 840 485
www.theloftaccesscompany.com
R.S. HALL UPHOLSTERY
30 years experience
ALL UPHOLSTERY WORK
UNDERTAKEN
Ω re-upholstery Ω pubs & clubs
Ω sofas & chairs Ω schools
Ω loose covers Ω hospitals
Ω antiques Ω office chairs
large contracts - over 300 fabrics available
Free
Estimates
Contact Bob on
07809 140988 / 01494 461481
email: contact@rshallupholstery.co.uk
www.rshallupholstery.co.uk
NATURAL GAS LPG PROPANE BUTANE
SPECIALISTS IN CONDENSING BOILERS & COMBINATION BOILERS
New Boilers Boiler Servicing Warm Air Units Unvented Hot Water Cylinders
Boiler Break downs Power Flushing Gas Fires Serviced
Gas Leaks Traced and Repaired New Gas Runs Landlords Gas Safety Inspections
Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer, it kills people every year...Don’t let it be you!
ALL ASPECTS OF PLUMBING, HEATING AND ELECTRICAL,
WETROOMS, BATHROOMS & KITCHEN INSTALLATIONS,
ALL WALL AND FLOOR TILING
T: 01628 477040 T: 01628 477171 M: 07774 212695 M: 07774 212694
www.coleltd.co.uk
info@coleltd.co.uk
28 Newtown Road, Marlow, Bucks SL7 1JU
26 | cole maintenance15.indd 1 Living Along The Thames | MAY 18/08/2015 / JUNE 09:51 2017

Automate Your
WORLD
mart home technologies are
evolving: from the way you
enter your home or control
your music and entertainment,
through to being able to control
lighting or security from your tablet or
smartphone; today, the opportunities
to automate your world are endless.
Technology has changed how we live and
work: the Internet-age has truly arrived and
now everything you touch has the ability to
be automated or controlled by an app on
your tablet or phone, and your home is no
exception.
It is now possible to control many aspects of
your world by simply touching a button on
your smartphone or tablet device; no matter
where you are.
Via one app, you can manage, monitor
and power your lighting, climate,
security, shading, music, televisions, energy
consumption and much more. You can even
have a robotic lawnmower take care of your
garden! The possibilities are endless.
Quest End, which is a family-owned
business led by local businessman Liam
Parker, launched to enable people to live
and work smarter. Its Maidenhead-based
Experience Centre, which is located in
the heart of the town on Queen Street,
offers the opportunity to see state-ofthe-art
smart home systems first-hand,
to really understand just what is possible.
This includes a superlative Cinema at Home
room, which uses the latest 4K digital
projector, immersive 3D surround sound
and acoustic treatment, in addition to ambient lighting and motion-controlled chairs, creating
a movie experience like no other.
Other technologies on show include access control and entry solutions, smart CCTV and
security systems, automated shading systems, energy and heating monitors, ambient and smart
lighting and multi-room audio and video innovations, all of which can be controlled by a smart
device, regardless of whether operated from within the property, or remotely while travelling.
The Future is Here
“We wanted to create a place where people could visit to really see how automation
technology is able to transform any environment, whether it is your home, work or leisure”
explains Liam Parker.
“The team has a real passion for technology and the power that it has to transform lives. Smart
home technologies may sound futuristic, but they are here today and are ready to help you take
better control of your home.”
As a member of the CEDIA trade association for the home technology industry, Quest End
follows a strict code of ethics in order to provide the highest quality service, and as such is
committed to delivering design excellence, technical expertise and superior customer service.
For those new to automation technology, the team offers a step-by-step, six-phase plan to
make the process from initial enquiry to completion as smooth as possible: from enquiry
and project scoping; product guidance and demonstrations; site visit and full specification;
estimated project plan and cost estimates; installation; to ongoing support.
The power of technology means that your vision does not have to stop here: the connected
home is today’s reality and Quest End is on hand to show you the many ways that technology
can help you fully automate your world.
Arrange a Demonstration
We invite you to visit our Maidenhead Experience Centre to see how control and automation
technologies would work in your home.
To book a demonstration, contact Liam or Paul at Quest End today.
Tel: 01628 290640 Email: Info@questend.co.uk Web: www.questend.co.uk
QUEST END | 18 QUEEN STREET | MAIDENHEAD | BERKSHIRE | SL6 1HZ
Security | Cinema at Home | Multi Room Audio | Multi Room Video
Automated Shading | Control Systems | Lighting Control | Smart Heating
Energy Monitoring | Robotic Lawnmowers
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
27 |

create your dream
kitchen, bedroom or home office
Our customers matter
Being a local, family run business we
genuinely care that our customers receive
the best possible service and are happy
with their experience from the moment
you step into the showroom.
Proudly designing, supplying and installing quality Fitted
Kitchens, Bedrooms and Home Offices since 1984. We are a
local family business based in Ashford, Middlesex & Farnham
Common, Buckinghamshire.
What we do
We pride ourselves on offering a
complete design and fully project
managed installation service for kitchens,
bedrooms and home offices, utilising high
quality cabinetry from leading British
manufacturers and a vast range of
appliances, specialised worktops, glass
splashbacks, flooring, tiles and lighting.
We also offer kitchens on a supply only
basis if required.
Specialist installation
Delivering and installing your kitchen,
bedrom or home office should be timely,
efficient and most importantly stress-free
for you. With this in mind, our highly
experienced, professional installers and
craftsmen will ensure that they are as
efficient, tidy and timely as possible and
that you are delighted with the end result.
Our specialist installers have many years
experience and can cover all aspects
including carpentry, electrical, plumbing,
gas, tiling, flooring and plastering. We
are particularly proud of the quality of
our fitters and their workmanship and of
course all installations come complete
with the relevant Part P Electrical or Gas
Safety certification.
We pride ourselves on our customer
service, and our teams friendly
and professional approach.
We make every effort to make things right
from day one, so that you will be delighted
with the end result. We welcome you to
visit our showrooms where you can start
your experience with us. There is always
one of our helpful team on hand to
show you around and give you more
information.
Ashford Kitchens & Interiors is at:
The Parade, The Broadway, Farnham
Common and 85, Church Road,
Ashford, Middlesex.
www.ashfordinteriors.co.uk
info@ashfordinteriors.co.uk
Ashford 01784 245964 or
Farnham Common 01753 642362
28 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Thinking of replacing
your kitchen, bedroom,
or home office?
Visit one of our large showrooms for inspiration
& to book your FREE design visit.
Farnham Common Showroom
1-2 The Parade, Farnham Common, Bucks SL2 3QJ Tel: 01753 642362
Ashford Showroom
85 Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 2PE Tel: 01784 245964

5
TIPS for fab
wooden floors
1. To expose and enjoy your home’s period floorboards, uncover
them, do any repairs and sand them with an industrial floor sander
and edger - which is hard, hot and dusty work. Although more
expensive, employing someone to sand them for you is often
worth it, and they usually include the cost of the wood stain or
varnish in the price. They should also be able to do the job quicker
than you can and should have better sanders than those available
from hire shops. Another problem with doing it yourself is that
you can get ridges in the boards from not using the floor sander
properly, and you usually pay for the sanding sheets you use on
top of the hire cost, which can soon add up.
2. Period floorboards often have more modern boards mixed in
where repairs have been done over the years. You can, of course,
replace the new boards with period ones, but there’s no guarantee
that the colour will match perfectly when sanded, and it can be
hard to find ones the same width, especially if your boards are an
unusual width.
3. Painting them makes it easier to disguise the new boards than
with wood stain or varnish, although dark stains and varnishes can
work really well. Painting floorboards white is a classic look and
will go with any wall colour, although it isn’t the most practical
choice for high-traffic areas of the home. An oil-based white floor
paint will cover in fewer coats, but it’s likely to yellow, so if you
want the boards to stay white, use a water-based paint. The latter
is also ideal if you need to use the room that day because it will dry
quickly.
4. If you don’t have period floorboards or you’d prefer not to
expose them, consider laying wood or wood-effect flooring.
Laminate flooring, which has a picture of wood printed onto the
boards, is an inexpensive way to get the look, but laminate isn’t as
fashionable as it once was. If you want the real thing, other types
of wooden flooring are now as easy to fit as laminate and can be
reasonably priced. Boards that simply click and fit together are
widely available in both engineered wood and solid wood flooring.
5. Engineered wood flooring has a top layer of real wood, with
other layers underneath. The thickness of the wood layer varies
- make sure you know how thick it is, as thicker layers can be
sanded. A floor that can be sanded a few times is a good investment
because it can take more wear and tear. Engineered wood is often
a more practical choice than solid wood flooring because the
layers give it added strength and durability. Unlike solid wood,
it shouldn’t shrink and expand when exposed to moisture and
changes in temperature and humidity.
30 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Spa
Style
Splash out on treats for your bathroom,
from smart storage to luxury towels, and
turn it into your very own spa. The White
Company has large Leather Laundry Bins, currently £148
(reduced from £185) as well as a Seagrass Laundry Basket,
reduced from £165 to £132 (www.thewhitecompany.com/
020 3758 9222).
Smarten up an overhead light with Lorraine at Home’s
Elgin Fitted Pendant, £35, JD Williams Home
(www.jdwilliams.co.uk/0871 231 2000).
Made.com’s renowned for bargain price designer style,
and its Egyptian cotton Mercer Collection towels are
a snip, starting from £18 for two towels
(www.made.com/03442 571 888).
Soothe the senses with a Jasmine, Lemongrass
And Ginger candle, £25, Sara Miller London
(www.saramiller.london).
32 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Your local showrooms
Windsor
01753 865 050
Amersham
01494 434 349
PREMIUM
BRANDS
EXCLUSIVE
PRICES
europeanbathrooms.com
EXPERT
INSTALLATION
ON REQUEST
EXCLUSIVE
PRICE
PROMISE
IMPRESSIVE
LOCAL
SHOWROOMS
DESIGNER
HOME VISIT
FOR FREE
Showrooms in Windsor & Amersham
DES
OUR DESIGNERS
SIG
OUR DESIGNERS
ARE THE DIFFERENCE

TIPS for painting
new plaster
1. You first need to seal new plaster to
make it less absorbent and to help the
topcoat adhere better. A common way
to seal it is with watered-down emulsion
(known as a mist coat), as the plaster sucks
up the water and becomes less absorbent.
After you’ve applied the mist coat, you’ll
be able to see where you need to fill more
easily than you would with bare plaster.
2. Watered-down emulsion is messy to
work with because it drips much more
than standard emulsion. Be careful
to wipe, roller or brush-out drips
immediately to avoid a bad finish - the
paint dries quickly because the plaster’s
absorbent. If your topcoat’s white, it’s best
to use watered-down white emulsion for
5the mist coat, or you may end up doing
more coats of topcoat than you need to.
3. Another problem with using a white
topcoat on new plaster is that you can get
patches of plaster the topcoat takes several
coats to cover. To save time and paint, use
a stain block or a basecoat emulsion on
these patches.
4. Paints designed to be applied directly
to bare plaster are available in DIY stores.
Although they’re more expensive than
watering down cheap emulsion, they’re
much nicer to use because they don’t drip
everywhere, but it can be harder to get a
good finish with them. Watered-down
emulsion produces a ‘soft’ edge on new
plaster, whereas bare plaster paints often
produce a ‘harder’ edge that can adversely
affect the finish, so it is advisable to water
down the first coat, if you can cope with
the mess. Painting plaster before it’s fully
dry can cause the paint to peel, giving you
endless problems, but some bare plaster
paints allow the plaster to continue
breathing and drying after the paint’s
applied.
5. Sometimes patches of new plaster don’t
dry out because of damp. Often the best
solution is to remove the plaster back to
the brickwork and get a plasterer to do a
waterproof render before replastering.
This should stop any moisture in the
brickwork coming back through the
plaster. The cause of the damp should also
be addressed. Alternatively, there are
quick fixes, such as applying damp paint/
seal to the damp patches and then
painting, or tiling or cladding the wall
(with tongue-and-groove panelling, for
example). However, you’re covering the
damp rather than dealing with it and it may
come through again once the damp paint/
seal starts to fail.
Company No 5674 62
RSBoiler Services
Gas, Oil, Heating, Plumbing, Electric, LPG, Propane, Butane
Established in 1977
• Free Estimates
• Combi & Condensing specialists
• Boiler/System installations
• Power Flushing
• Gas Leaks
• Account Customers Welcome
• Insurance Work
• All makes of Boilers serviced or repaired
Tel: 01628 483099
www.rsboilerservices.co.uk
25 Woodland Way, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 3LD
Please cut out and leave near your Boiler for a fast response in the event of a breakdown
rs boilers advert.indd 1 19/08/2015 13:16
34 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

LET YOUR BODY BREATHE
the
woolroom
NATURAL HEALTHY SLEEP

flirting with
PINK
Pink is spring’s biggest fashion trend - and
where designers lead, interior decorators
soon follow.
Even if you don’t wear pink, there are so
many facets to this rosy hue that if styled
correctly (much like that pink Zara trench
coat that’s flying off the rails), it can
lighten the home without leaving it
looking like a Disney-esq doll’s house.
The secret is to blend, blend, blend...
A ballet-slipper sofa, a sugar-almond
cushion and a coat of pale pink gloss can
be designed to shape, colour and contour,
and be as flattering as your favourite blush.
ROYAL FLUSH
“If you’re looking to bring pink into your
palette, ensure you pick your shades
carefully. Avoid overpowering a room
with saccharine hues, and opt for more
mature tones, that will add a feminine
touch without looking too girly. Deep
dusky pinks are right on trend and will
work perfectly for a look such as this,”
says Ian Dykes, founder and director,
Voyage Decoration.
“If you’re opting for brighter shades,
introduce them in small pops on
accessories, or through accent detailing
such as piping. Placed alongside
masculine colours, such as deep navy
blues or moody greys, your scheme will be
beautifully balanced and seriously stylish.”
Another trick is to remember that when
pink is combined with white - roses in a
white vase, or scented candles on a
mirrored table, for instance - it can look
cool and glamorous.
“As we enter into the summer months,
pink continues to be one of the biggest
colour trends of the year,” says Philip
Watkin, DFS design director.
“It’s a lot more versatile than you first
might think and can be used in a variety
of ways. We’ve used pink fabrics on our
The Le Cocktail Chair, Fuschia
£425 | oliverbonas.com
Rosa, £137.50 | Amara.com
Kate Spade New York Greenwich Grove
Tea Cup & Saucer, pink grey £45
furniture to create a contemporary and
soft environment in the home. Paired with
on-trend metallic, especially copper, clean
white walls and touches of grey, pink -
blush or even bolder fuchsia tones - will
create a calm yet vibrant living space.”
ROSE BOUQUET
When it comes to updating our favourite
rooms, some of us go to great lengths to
shop the latest looks.
And if your last dalliance was with 50
shades of grey (or darker), then the good
news is you can rekindle that flame with an
innocent petal pink.
“Adding colour such as pink to a room
is an easy way to update the feel of the
space,” says Lucy Ackroyd, bed linen
design manager, Christy.
“Our Harlow bed linen uses a classic
design of large-scale flowers, digitally
printed in elegant grey and pink tones.
Mixing grey and pink is a popular trend for
2017, giving pink an edgier look than
traditionally seen.”
But if this still sounds a little too innocent
and you’re after a touch more drama, pink
36 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

The Betsy 3 Seater Sofa in pink
£579 | dfs.co.uk
framed by violet or black is a tempting
scheme that can be dressed up to suit your
space.
FEMININE VIBE
When it comes to pink fabrics, we often
associate it with lightweight, delicate
materials, like silk.
So what could be lovelier (and more
practical) than introducing the shade to
a scheme with items that are also strong
and sturdy?
Thankfully, designers are going full-on
rose this season and weaving it into
heavier furnishings, with wools and rugs
popping up in pink, adding texture to
the ‘livingscape’ and looking blooming
marvellous.
“Wool is naturally associated with the
winter months, simply due to its cosy
texture and warming properties,” says
Martin Aveyard, design director, Bronte
by Moon. “However, many forget that
wool also regulates temperature, keeping
the home cool even in the warmer months.
“Consider Shetland wools in fresh and
vibrant tones which instantly lift a
room, brightening the decor without
compromising on warmth and comfort.
“Hues of pastel pinks evoke a sense
of sunnier climes, and are perfect for
updating a statement armchair without
losing the cosy feel of wool.”
Pink Pillow £12.99
homesense.com
Ziggurat Table Lamp in
Antique Silver £140
Straight Empire Shade in
Pink block printed cotton
£50 pooky.com
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
Pink and natural cushion £49.95
brontebymoon.co.uk
37 |

Assignment Cleaning Services Ltd
Quality Window Cleaning
Using Safe & Efficient
Reach & Wash system
Commercial & Domestic
Fully Insured
FREE Quotes
Established in Marlow since 1984
Tel: 01628 483952
www.assignmentcleaningservices.com
5
TIPS For
Feature
Walls
Would You Like An Honest, Reliable
and AFFORDABLE police checked cleaner?
assignment cleaning.indd 1 19/08/2015 13:15
To Clean And Care For Your Home?
All cleaners reference checked in their own homes and
Typically £13.00 per hour.
Discount of £10.00 off
first clean with this advert.
t: 01628 471824
e: maidenhead@timeforyou.co.uk
DAVID BRAY
DOMESTIC PLUMBING &
HEATING SPECIALISTS
• Good local reliable service
• Boiler replacements & installations
• Central Heating systems
• Bathroom Installations
• General Plumbing Maintenance
Call now for more information & free quotation
07725 748726
01628 478935
*police checked cleaner on request.
DAVID bRAY.indd 1 19/08/2015 13:14
Next Edition July/August
Deadline 10th June
1. You can create a feature wall with colour and/or a pattern,
even texture, in pretty much any room - chimney breasts, alcoves
and walls behind beds, dining tables and sofas usually work
well - but not all rooms have a suitable wall. If not, you can
create a horizontal feature on all four walls by using wallpaper
or a different colour paint between a room’s picture rail and
cornicing, between the picture rail and dado rail, or between
the dado rail and skirting board.
2. Painted stripes look fab on a feature wall, but are fiddly,
time-consuming and often frustrating to do properly. You’ll need
to use low-tack masking tape for adjoining stripes, and try a tester
piece of tape first in case it’s not as low tack as it claims to be.
Alternatively, do freehand ‘rough’ stripes with a paintbrush or
roller and no tape - it’s much easier, but more of an acquired taste.
3. Wallpaper is popular for feature walls - if you want stripes the
easy way, buy a striped design. A feature wall enables you to enjoy
patterned wallpaper without it overpowering the room or making
it look too busy. It works best if you tie one or more of the colours
in the wallpaper in to the rest of room. So, for example, if the
other walls are white, a wallpaper on the feature wall with white in
it should bring the look together. Murals are similar to wallpaper,
but usually depict a scene (a beach, cityscape, mountains, etc) or a
large-scale design, such as a map, rather than a more conventional
pattern. Unlike wallpaper, which can be hung on as many or few
walls as you like, a mural is usually designed to be used on just one
feature wall.
4. Feature walls can be practical as well as pretty. You could have
a tiled feature wall in a bathroom or shower room (using mosaic or
glass tiles, for example) and a chalkboard feature wall in a kitchen
or playroom. Chalkboard paints are available in different colours,
so the wall doesn’t have to be black. If you’d prefer something
less permanent, how about a chalkboard sticker? Wall stickers in
general are fantastic for feature walls because they come in lots of
different designs, colours and sizes.
5. You can also create a feature wall outdoors. Masonry paint
comes in a wide range of colours, so why not do something
creative if you have a wall or walls in your garden?
38 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

HOPPEN
TO IT
“Creating a sense of theatre is essential
in any living space,” declares Kelly
Hoppen, and the dramatic settings in
her home, a converted auction house in
central London, amply prove her point.
“I bought the building as a shell with
nothing but a floor, an impressively high
ceiling and the structural columns,”
she says proudly, gesturing at the vast
open-plan living area which runs from an
entrance hall at one end through to the
study at the other, with living and
dining areas in between.
The space is decorated in her signature
shades of taupe and white. “I’m not
frightened of colour, but neutrals are
who I am. It’s worked as my signature
colourway for 40 years and I’ll continue
the Hoppen style,” she insists.
“I passionately believe a palette of neutrals
- whether taupe, sand or cream based -
can provide a serene and harmonious
backdrop, against which to layer the
colour and activity in your life. I like the
way they make me feel, as much as they
way they look.
“But whichever family of neutrals I choose
to work with on a project, textural contrast
is always absolutely key, to add richness,
depth and character,” she adds.
Personality abounds throughout the
home. The glamorous master bathroom -
“probably my favourite room” - has a
marble bath, set on an under-lit plinth,
whose shape’s inspired by a lotus flower.
“I also love our study, which is similar to
a collector’s room, housing a history of
the old auction house as well as books, art
and objects,” she confides. “I still believe
open-plan is essential to the way we live.
I love using glass partitions if I want to
create intimate areas and add depth.”
Her distinctive style philosophy has won
her a portfolio of A-list clients, including
David and Victoria Beckham - and now
she reveals her decor secrets, and the
wisdom that’s helped make her
internationally renowned, in her
beautifully illustrated book, House
Of Hoppen.
Only 13 when she realised she wanted to
be an interior designer, taking on her first
project three years later, Hoppen, 57,
began her career extraordinarily young.
“By the time I was 17, I’d bought and
done up my own apartment in London’s
Chelsea, as well as setting up an office
there,” she recalls.
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
“Back then, everything came from a real
intrigue and experience, rather than just
opening a book and copying from it,
which is what I feel people do today.
39 |

My own style evolved in an organic way - it
was intuitive.”
She has a cautious approach to trends
which she believes should be used
as a guide, rather than a rule, as if they’re
too slavishly followed they can easily date
an interior. “What’s important is creating
timeless and understated elegance in your
home, and to plan before you start
designing the space. Times have changed
and people want sustainable and modern
luxury, while holding on to pieces that will
last the test of time,” she says.
“The recession has had a big impact on
the way people are living their lives and
their core values. It’s that juxtaposition
between the old and new that will play an
important role in the future.”
HOPPEN’S DECOR TIPS
COLOUR UP: Splashes of burgundy,
dark grey, pastel pink, emerald green,
and burnt orange will be the shades of
this year.
EDGY MIX: An industrial look in
design has made a comeback. “Using
industrial materials, such as concrete,
will automatically inject an urban feel into
your home no matter what the location.
This versatile material looks incredible
contrasted with metals and textures. Mix
it up with antiques which will
shock and contrast beautifully
with this sleek look.”
WAKE UP WALLS: “Wallpaper
should be a wonderful, luxurious
piece of texture, which draws you
in but at the same time is a
backdrop to whatever style you choose
for your home,” explains Hoppen.
“We’ve seen an increase in patterned and
textured wallpaper which will continue
this year. Look out for lots of bold,
colourful prints as well as geometric
shapes, splatters and messy patterns, a la
artist Jackson Pollock. Retro-style tiles
will also be huge for walls.” Give one
wall a facelift for an easy spring update.
Kelly Hoppen Splatter Gold Wallpaper,
£23 a roll, Graham & Brown
(www.grahamandbrown.com).
NATURE NOTES: Bringing nature into
the home is absolutely key, Hoppen
declares. “I love organic trees which grow
indoors, and Sixties-style plants such as
palm trees and rubber plants, which are
enjoying a revival. Place fresh flowers in
every room for an instant spring uplift.
Display in clear bowls - which could also
be filled with flowers or sand - and are
ideal centre pieces or focal points on
tables.” Clear Glass Globe Top
Band Bowl, £39, Kelly Hoppen
(www.kellyhoppen.com).
LIGHTEN UP:
Create a lighter feeling
for spring by substituting
curtains and loose covers
in heavy fabrics for more
delicate alternatives,
such as sheers and cottons.
Use mirrors throughout the home
where possible. They can double the effect
of natural daylight and create an illusion
that a space is larger and brighter than in
reality.
FLOOR SHOW: Different materials
and effects will make floors the star of
homes this year, Hoppen predicts.
“Retro tiles paired with wood,
herringbone flooring matched with
ceramic tiles, and old wooden floors
mixed with stone will be just a few of
the new pairings.
“Bespoke wood colour will also be a big
hit. The wood flooring in my London
home is full of subtle warm tones and took
six months to perfect. It was like going
to the hairdresser and finding the perfect
shade. Another popular trend will be
photographic tiles - imagery on tiles -
which can be show-stopping.”
GET THE LOOK
Recreate Kelly Hoppen’s style with
furniture and accessories from the
designer’s range...
Grey Wing Accent Chair, £600, and
Flow Coffee Table, £1,200. Accessorise
with faux Hydrangeas In Glass Vase,
£44; a Westbourne Velvet Cushion,
£95, all Kelly Hoppen (020 3701
9333/www.kellyhoppen.com)
House Of Hoppen by
Kelly Hoppen,
photography by
Vincent Knapp and
Mel Yates, is published
by Jacqui Small, £50.
Available to readers
for special price of £40 (including p&p).
Visit www.QuartoKnows.com and enter
code HOP20 (offer valid until June 30)
40 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Have you seen this plant?
It’s the foreign invader damaging our natural
environments. Let’s stop it, before it stops
your mortgage!
Are you applying for a mortgage
and not sure if you have Japanese
Knotweed?
RootsShootsLeaves can perform
a site inspection and advise you
as to whether Japenese Knotweed
is present. It spreads easily, often
by accident, and will quickly take
hold in a garden and cause damage
to structures, driveways and out
competes all other plants.
If you do have Japanese knotweed
RootsShootsLeaves will produce
a Management Plan (approved
by most Mortgage Companies)
including a Survey Report detailing
the extent of the weed and what
treatment is required to eradicate
it allowing you to buy or sell your
property, even during
the treatment period.
With Japanese Knotweed the
sooner treatment starts, the
quicker the plant is dealt with
and less damage is caused.
Call us today for a no
obligation site survey and
we can get the ball rolling!
01344 985885
For more information and a
knotweed guide email us at
info@rootsshootsleaves.co.uk
www.rootsshootsleaves.co.uk
Japanese knotweed
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
41 |

Creating healthy lawns for life
The key to any great lawn is
regular weed and feed treatments
Our expert service provides just that - ensuring
you get the lawn you’ve always dreamed of
We offer:
Free lawn assessment and quotation
Four seasonal treatments per year
(from only £15 per treatment)
Professional long-life feeds,
specialist weed and moss control
No contract to sign - simply pay as you go
Aeration and scarification service
A truly customer focused service with
ongoing support and advice
For your FREE lawn assessment please
call Robert Southerden
01753 642443
®
Pruning
Mature
Trees
Calibra Tree Surgeons says
pruning is the most common
tree maintenance procedure
and although forest trees grow
quite well with only nature’s
pruning, landscape trees
require a higher level of care
to maintain their safety and
aesthetics. Pruning should be
done with an understanding of
how the tree responds to each
cut. Improper pruning can
cause damage that will last for
the life of the tree, or worse,
shorten the tree’s life.
Most routine pruning to remove weak, diseased, or dead limbs
can be accomplished at any time during the year with little effect
on the tree. As a rule, growth is maximized and wound closure
is fastest if pruning takes place before the spring growth flush.
Some trees, such as maples and birches, tend to “bleed” if
pruned early in the spring. It may be unsightly, but it is of little
consequence to the tree.
Heavy pruning just after the spring growth should be avoided.
At that time, trees have just expended a great deal of energy
to produce foliage and early shoot growth. Removal of a large
percentage of foliage at that time can stress the tree.
42 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Greys Court garden
A TRIBUTE TO A LADY
BY KATY DUNN
ucked away in its own secret
world, the walled garden of the
National Trust’s Greys Court
reveals its floral treasures
room by room. Open a scrolledgate or
unassuming door and you can discover
a riot of bright peonies or enter a
flower tunnel wound through with vines
of honeysuckle and roses.
Greys Court is very much a spring and
early summer garden. In June it’s verdant
and fresh, everything is growing and it’s
full of light, scent and colour. Lady
Brunner designed the gardens after the
family arrived at the estate in 1937.
She imagined sitting peacefully inside
beautiful outdoor rooms, but also had a
love of show and drama.
Greys Court’s Head Gardener, Adam
Ford, feels that as the original creator,
her intentions and story are paramount.
‘That’s perhaps what makes the role of a
National Trust gardener different,’ says
Adam. ‘It’s about historical context. My
personal taste doesn’t matter. I’d like
Greys Court to be a beautiful space but
also a historic landmark that tells the
story of its creator and marks her moment
in time.’
However, as an actress before her
marriage, Lady Brunner also had a sense
of fun and theatre and loved big, blousy
blooms. Her appreciation of drama shows
in the walled garden as each garden room
is separated from its neighbours by at
least one gate or door. This presents you
with choices and decisions to make and a
‘ta-da’ moment as you step through. The
reveal of the rose garden is one of those
moments.
The roses are set around a striped, circular
lawn, flanked on one side by the pink and
purple border and on the other by the
yellow and orange border. This riot of
bright summer scents and colours are
offset by perfect, mint-green grass.
The roses are laid out in chronological
order, tracing the evolution of roses from
early damask varieties through to modern
hybrids.
Elsewhere, the peony border is
overflowing with pink and purple peonies,
delphiniums and sour grape penstemons.
Water plays gently in the fountains of
the Italianate Garden with its soaring
columnar juniper trees. The orchard is
home to gnarled espalier-trained fruit
trees above a meadow dotted with oxeye
daisies.
At any given time of year, Adam has a
different favourite spot, ‘but I love the
wisteria room when it’s out of season
without flowers or leaves. I love the
structure; it feels like an enchanted forest
is wrapping you up in twisting 120 year
old trees.’
Yet on drowsy warm days in June, with the
soundscape of birdsong and bees, when
the roses are at their peak of scent and
colour, Greys Court is the most beautiful,
tranquil place to be. ‘It’s where I feel
peaceful,’ says Adam.
Greys Court is offering a free regular
tea or coffee with any purchase in the
Cowshed tearoom on weekdays in June.
(Offer not valid at weekends. Normal admission applies.)
As president of the Women’s Institute,
Lady Brunner was very practical. The
kitchen garden she created is all about
production and jam making. The
glasshouses are full of tomatoes, peppers
and basil for the café. There are beans,
brassicas, roots and salad crops in the
beds, and the cut flower borders supply
fresh flowers for the house.
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
43 |

flower
power
HAVING BEEN SUPERINTENDENT OF THE
ROYAL PARKS FOR A QUARTER OF
A CENTURY, AND ONE OF ONLY 63 PEOPLE
ACROSS THE WORLD TO HAVE BEEN
AWARDED THE RSC MEDAL OF HONOUR,
THERE’S NOT MUCH JIM BUTTRESS
DOESN’T KNOW ABOUT HORTICULTURE.
NOW, HE WANTS PEOPLE ALL OVER THE
COUNTRY TO TAKE THEIR GREEN SPACES
BACK, SO BOTH BRITAIN’S GARDENS
AND COMMUNITIES CAN BLOOM AND
FLOURISH TOGETHER…
When Jim Buttress first started gardening at school, after
being asked out of class by the teacher, he never thought
it would lead to him being one of the UK’s leading experts
on horticulture for decade after decade, and a starring
role on the judging panel for the “greatest flower show on
Earth” at Chelsea.
“I can’t say it was written in the stars,” says the 71-yearold
London-born gardener when describing his passion
for the great outdoors, “I can’t say I wasn’t going to be fit
for anything else, I was just fascinated by being outside,
getting dirty, and then seeing a packet of seeds that I had
sown actually germinate, and I’d done it all myself.”
From there Jim went on to emulate his own gardening
heroes, men like Percy Thrower and Jack Hamilton who
“didn’t have scripts, they just got out there and did it.”
This idea of active gardening is something Jim is keen to
encourage – and he sees the future of Britain’s green and
pleasant spaces as being in the hands of the people, rather
than the politicians.
“Because of the demise of a lot of councils, and
cutbacks, the community are taking it on themselves,”
he explains, “I’ve always been drawn towards community
involvement. It says so much for the area, and the people,
and it says so much that people who live next door to
one another for ten years, never talked, got on with
their own life, and then they find that the two of them are
picking up litter on the local common. The community
are finding waste bits of land that no-one else wants
to know about, and they’re creating these community
gardens. It’s crazy, isn’t it?”
Despite appearing on BBC Two’s The Big Allotment
Challenge, Jim places more faith in a sharing of
knowledge throughout the gardening community,
rather than to make it a competition.
“At the end of the day, gardening is an extremely friendly
profession,” he beams, “If you’ve got a real problem,
there will be loads of people on hand to take a look at it and help
you out.”
Jim’s dedication to his profession earned him a much-prized, and
highly-coveted, Victoria Medal of Honour, alongside 62 other
legendary names in the world of horticulture. It is his biggest
achievement to date in his expansive career, but he hopes that one
day he’ll be able to fulfil another life-long dream.
“I would love to set up my own school, with my own training and
help,” he says, “I do a lot with other people, but if I could say
that Jim Buttress set up his own School of Horticulture for all those
people that may have slipped off the wagon somewhere or another,
and it will keep on helping them, that would be a marvellous thing.”
The People’s Gardener by Jim Buttress is out now via
Sidgwick & Jackson, RRP £16.99
44 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

in May 2017
Aquarius January 21 - February 18
Your ruler, the maverick planet Uranus,
is in spectacular aspect to practical Saturn
all this month. Apply your energies to
constructive pursuits and connecting with
influential people: Your intellectual
powers are sharp, particularly after the
4th as Mercury goes into direct motion.
Pisces February 19 - March 20
Your home and your family are in the
spotlight this month as energetic Mars stirs
up the domestic area of your chart. A new
plan of action is on the cards and you
may need to make some major decisions.
Creativity and intuition flow after the
full moon on the 10th
Aries March 21 - April 20
Mars, your ruler, remains in the upbeat
sign of Gemini all month; plans, projects
and anything to do with communication
should be gathering momentum as May
unfolds. The Scorpio full moon on the
10th brings your Investments and shared
resources into the spotlight.
Taurus April 21 – May 21
The Sun is in your sign until the 21st and
energetic Mars in Gemini continue to give
you an extra boost of vitality. Venus, your
ruler, is in fiery Aries all month, bringing
you a chance to clear up some emotional
matters that have been bothering you for
quite a while.
Gemini May 22 - June 21
Mercury, your ruler, returns to direct
motion in your sign on the 4th opening up
the possibilities for innovative ideas and
exciting new plans to pick up pace and
move ahead. The full moon in Scorpio
THE COSMOS DURING MAY
May sees the sign of Taurus the bull moving into the spotlight; this sign is down to earth
and constructive and this stable and practical energy can be used beneficially to keep
your projects going at a steady pace. Taurus is also the sign of nature, spring is here - be
sure to get outdoors as much as possible and enjoy the abundance of the natural world.
The planet Mercury finishes its retrograde motion on the 4th, ensuring that things
will flow much more smoothly as the rest of the month picks up pace. The full moon
in Scorpio on the 10th increases self-awareness and intuition and enhances emotional
intensity. The new moon in Gemini on the 26th is lively and curious, increasing our
hunger for knowledge and developing our capacities as thinkers and communicators.
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
on the 10th sheds light on an exciting
opportunity for the future.
Cancer June 22 - July 22
This month brings a pleasing social period
your way, opportunities open up and you
can bask in the spotlight. Practical matters
also look encouraging and you’ll feel ready
to put in quite a lot of hard work. After the
full moon on the10th you find that help
comes from unexpected quarters.
Leo July 23 - August 23
Energetic Mars in Gemini remains in a
pivotal sector of your chart, bringing
all sorts of new developments to your
social life. Relationships may be the most
exciting part of your life right now as a
deep friendship, or even a love affair could
become particularly rewarding for you.
Virgo August 24 - September 22
Energetic Mars is at the highest point
of your chart all month, illuminating the
way for brighter career prospects. Avoid
wasting energy on trivia and take care not
to be distracted. The Taurus new moon on
the 25th highlights a brilliant opportunity
and a new beginning.
Libra September 23 - October 23
Further learning opportunities and long
distance travel are both in the spotlight this
month. Venus is in fiery Aries all month
ensuring that confidence and intuition are
at a peak. Take this opportunity to further
develop new projects, particularly around
the Scorpio full moon on the 10th
Scorpio October 24 - November 22
The full moon in your sign on the 10th
illuminates the important decisions
that you have taken in recent months.
Successful work projects now coincide
with your determination to succeed in all
areas of life. Dynamic Mars in Gemini is
strong in your financial sector.
Sagittarius November 23 - December 21
Mars in Gemini brings your relationships
and partnerships into the spotlight this
month. With the love planet Venus strong
in fiery Aries, passionate romance is also
on the cards. The Scorpio full moon on the
10th is rather introspective, heightening
reflection and intuition.
Capricorn December 22 - January 20
This month brings a sense of adventure
and exciting new possibilities. The Sun
and Energetic Mars are both in pivotal
positions in your chart, ensuring that you
enjoy popularity and recognition. Use
positive thinking to get the very best out of
any new social endeavours.
Visit www.VividTitles.co.uk
to see how you can navigate your
way to success in June
NAVIGATE YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS
– with in-depth knowledge and cosmic
awareness. How is 2017 progressing for
you? How can you turn things around
to your advantage? Insights gained by
having your unique birth chart explained
to you will help you to work with the
planetary cycles and maximise your
potential to achieve whatever you desire.
Consultations are available in person,
by telephone or Skype. Book now for a
revealing personal astrology consultation.
Please contact me for more information.
Inspirational Astrologer
and Life Coach,
www.restyleyourlife.co.uk
Christine@restyleyourlife.co.uk
Telephone: 07813 483549
45 |

TRAVELLING
with POETIC
LICENCE
The Ocean from
Isla Negra
46 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Valparaiso, Chile
A controversial character, who divided opinion with his
socialist beliefs and flamboyant lifestyle, Chilean poet
Pablo Neruda was one of the 20th century’s literary greats.
Awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971, his fame spread
worldwide, yet appreciation for his love poems, historical epics and
simple odes to everyday life, is still limited in English-speaking
countries.
An adventurous, fantasy biopic by lauded film-maker Pablo Larrain
will no doubt redress that imbalance.
“I was raised in a country where Neruda is in the air, the water and
the trees,” says Chilean Larrain. “Our identity and character has been
shaped mostly by our poets.”
Isla Negra, Chile
Gael Garcia Bernal plays a supporting role in the semi-imagined story
of an episode in Neruda’s tumultuous life, when political differences
forced him to live as a fugitive.
His character, fascist police investigator Oscar Peluchonneau,
engages in a cat-and-mouse game with the defiant artist, and develops
both a fascination and respect for him in the process.
Bernal shares those feelings: “He’s such a big person, who can build
worlds and create landscapes. He would write about things with an
emotional perspective, which is so needed. For example, he would
have written about this horrendous victory of Donald Trump!”
Although work as a diplomat carried Neruda across the globe, his
heart always lay with Chile and the Pacific Ocean, so “big, unruly and
blue”.
Photo of
Valparaiso,
Chile
Take a tour through Santiago, Valparaiso and Isla Negra, to discover
the colourful backstreets and wild coastlines that inspired his life’s
work.
THE SECRET LOVE NEST
Where: La Chascona, Santiago
Buried at the base of San Cristobal Hill, in the bohemian Bellavista
district, Neruda’s landlocked house still has a strong connection with
the sea. Fish motifs decorate the walls, and the building itself looks
ready to set sail.
Built in 1953 as a retreat for secret trysts with his mistress Matilde
Urrutia, the property is named after her wild, unruly red hair.
Neruda would regularly host dinner parties for friends here, although
only he was allowed to serve drinks from behind The Captain’s Bar -
normally in colourful glasses, because they tasted better that way.
A hoarder with a sense of humour, he amassed unusual trinkets and
fancy ornaments from his time spent overseas as a diplomat. Look out
for a secret stash of playing cards displayed beneath a staircase in The
Lighthouse Living room, and a giant shoe once used as a cobbler’s
shop sign, now propped in front of the outdoor summer bar.
Tickets: £8.50. Closed Mondays. Visit fundacionneruda.org
THE MEAL OF POETS
Where: Venezia Restaurant and Mercado Central, Santiago
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
Caldillo de Congrio, a warming fish stew made with the “snowy flesh”
of the conger eel, was Neruda’s favourite dish. He loved it so much he
even dedicated a poem to the sworn hangover remedy. “In this dish
you may find heaven,” he wrote in Ode to Caldillo De Congrio.
47 |

Steam Train
outside Isla
Negra, Chile
Mosaic in
Bellavista,
Santiago
Film Still
from film
‘Naruda’
One of his favourite places to blissfully
indulge was the El Venezia Restaurant
at Pio Nono 200, a five-minute walk
from La Chascona. Black and white
pictures of Neruda float between paintings
of gondolas on the peeling walls, and
Italian football commentators squeal from
TV screens. The food is so-so, but the
atmosphere certainly makes up for it.
A better creation of the dish can be found
at Santiago’s Mercado Central, a 19th
century fish market where restaurants
serve seafood beneath a wrought-iron
ceiling.
Try La Joya del Pacifico (open daily from
6am), where the stew costs from £7.
A SAILBOAT IN THE SKY
Where: La Sebastiana, Valparaiso
Nothing really gets going until midday in
this free and easy graffiti-splashed seaside
town, a 90-minute drive from Santiago.
Once a vital trading port for the Americas,
until the Panama Canal arrived in 1914,
it’s now favoured by hippies, students and
stray dogs.
The counter culture way of life fits
perfectly with Neruda’s own unorthodox
sentiments.
Eschewing the pretty aristocratic hub
of Cerro Alegre (where bars, hotels and
restaurants now flourish), he chose to
build a five-storey house higher up in one
of the town’s 45 hills, amid a hotchpotch of
colourful immigrants’ houses. Take one
of the town’s trundling 100-year-old
funiculars to get there.
The view alone is worth the journey -
surveying the inky blue bay, it’s the
perfect docked crow’s nest. In keeping
with Neruda’s eccentric tastes, the house is
brimming with oddities styled with a smile.
A man and woman in matching Edwardian
ruffs glare longingly at each other from gilt
frames hung on opposite walls; Neruda
purchased the paintings as a pair, fearing
they might otherwise get lonely.
Tickets: £8.50. Closed Mondays.
Visit fundacionneruda.org
A PLACE OF REST
Where: Casa de Isla Negra, Isla Negra
“I need the sea because it teaches me,”
mused Neruda in his poem The Sea. “Until
I fall asleep, in some magnetic way I move
in the university of the waves.”
Throughout his life, the poet had a great
reverence for the ocean, and this coastal
home, perched on a rocky headland a twohour
drive from Santiago, quickly became
his favourite.
After searching for a place in resort town
Cartagena (now a sorry shadow of itself),
Neruda moved into the property in 1945
and lived here with Delia del Carril.
A steam engine on the front lawn nods to
his father’s work as a railway employee,
and collections of exotic shells and boats in
bottles cram the shelves.
A ship’s wheel has been repurposed as
a coffee table and a telescope sits neatly
at Neruda’s bedside. He once used it to
spy a piece of driftwood floating in the
ocean, which eventually became his most
treasured desk.
It was upon this shipwrecked cellar door
that the prolific poet composed some of
his greatest works (always in green pen)
including historical epic, Canto General.
Mystery surrounds the cause of Neruda’s
death in 1973, which coincided with
right-wing dictator Pinochet’s coup d’etat,
but his body now lies peacefully alongside
his two loves, Matilde and the ocean.
“Friends, bury me at Isla Negra, before the
sea I know, before each wrinkled stretch of
stones, and before the waves my lost eyes
will see no more.”
Tickets: £8.50. Closed Mondays.
Expect queues from 10am in high season
(Nov - Feb). Visit fundacionneruda.org
WHERE TO STAY?
Santiago: Hotel Luciano K,
www.lucianokhotel.com
Chile’s answer to Gaudi, architect
Luciano Kulczewski designed several
fairy tale buildings in the 1920s. A few
are still standing, including this townhouse
converted into a boutique hotel. Pay
attention to the meticulous restoration
of colourful floor tiling and a jangling lift,
which zips up to a glorious rooftop bar with
a toe-dipping pool.
Valparaiso: Zero Hotel,
www.zerohotel.com
Wake up to a view Neruda often enjoyed
at this Pacific-facing, period townhouse,
close to the bars and cafes of Cerro Alegre.
Parquet floor bedrooms are homely, and
boast arguably Chile’s most comfy beds,
and an outdoor terrace is a peaceful place
to muse over some of Neruda’s books of
poetry.
Travel Facts
Sarah Marshall was a guest of The Ultimate Travel Company (020 3051 8098, theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk) who tailor-make a 10-day journey in search of Pablo
Neruda from £3,275 pp.
Beginning with three nights at Santiago’s Luciano K, the next stop is Hotel Z, Valparaiso before a final three nights at La Casona in the Matetic vineyards. Price includes
daily breakfast, dinners at La Casona and private guided sightseeing with car and driver throughout, plus Air France flights from London via Paris.
48 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

The INSPIRATIONAL
River Thames
The River Thames is a living, changing
entity, a key element in the lives of people
living in its valley. In the past, inhabitants
have used the river as a source of food, for
transport and to earn a living. Little has
changed. Perhaps it is only the numbers
that have changed.
The river is to most, a recreational area,
to be enjoyed and used. The starting
trickle in the Cotswolds is short lived.
It quickly changes to become a river
stretching 215 miles to the North Sea. Its
journey sees it pass through picturesque
towns and right into the heart of London
then on past Kent and Essex, to the sea.
The river has been a source of
inspiration to many an artist, and writer.
Some of this country’s, most celebrated,
have drawn inspiration from the water,
wildlife, people and its towns and cities.
Painters use the river as an inspirational
muse. Canaletto, J M W Turner and
Claude Monet, all have painted
scenes, depicting the life and work
of the river, throughout its history.
More recently, Cookham and its
inhabitants, appear in many of Sir
Stanley Spencer’s biblical paintings.
It would be difficult for us, not to
mention photography. Someone; you
may not have heard of is Henry Taunt.
A leading Victorian photographer, who
produced the first illustrated pocket guide,
to the Thames in the 1860s. While the
first edition, covered the upper Thames, its
range expanded over subsequent editions.
Writers such as Kenneth Grahame
and Jerome K Jerome drew direct
inspiration from the river. Grahame’s
‘The Wind in the Willows’ characters
Toad, Ratty and Mole are believed to
be drawn from the rivers wildlife, while
Mapledurham House at Pangbourne is
said to be the blueprint for Toad Hall.
Jerome K Jerome’s ‘Three men in a
boat’ is a witty journey by boat, from
Kingston to Oxford. Many pubs and
places on the river, mentioned in
Jerome’s book, can still be visited to
this day.
And so the list continues. The Thames of
today still provides those who live along
or visit it, with a source of pleasure and
inspiration.
But we should not take the river for
granted. The south-east population is
growing through business and the
need to build new homes so space
limitations inevitability mean some
will be constructed close to the
river.
These pressures increase year on year
and so the river needs protection, if it
is to inspire future generations with
its wild and majestic countenance.
Jacky & Mark Bloomfield
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
49 |

expert tips for cutting
sugar the sensible way
So there might be a super-size helping
of clean-eating backlash simmering at
the moment (hurrah!), but that doesn’t
mean all notions of healthy-eating need
to go out the window.
And this includes sugar. Luckily,
when it comes to blatant sugar-fests
(doughnuts, birthday cakes, family-sized
Dairy Milks...), our nauseous stomachs
make it clear when enough’s enough.
Where it gets trickier though, is all this
‘hidden sugar’ malarkey (I mean, how does
a few spoons of beans have more sugar
than a biscuit?!). And then there’s fruit,
and juice, and all the confusion around
that.
So how can we have our cake and eat
it - without totally screwing up our health
goals?
What’s wrong with sugar?
“For many of us brought up from the
Sixties to the Eighties, Saturdays meant
a trip to the corner shop or your local
Woolworths to spend pocket money on as
many sweets as you could fit into a pick ‘n’
mix bag. It was also commonplace to have a
well-stocked biscuit tin in the kitchen,”
says Rob Hobson, author of The Detox
Kitchen Bible and head of nutrition
at Healthspan (www.healthspan.co.uk).
“We’re now reaping the legacy of this, and
of the food industry’s habit of slipping
sugar into everything from soups to
smoothies, in the epidemic of obesity, type
2 diabetes, heart disease and dementia.
Highly refined sugars are the worst and
have a dramatic effect on blood glucose
levels. In excess, these sugars are
converted to blood fats called triglycerides,
that may have a harmful effect on the
liver and encourage the build-up of bad
cholesterol, implicated in heart disease
risk.”
What’s being done about that?
Official bodies are “all over the message
to cut down on sugar”, Hobson notes. In
March last year, the WHO (World Health
Organisation) urged us to “reduce ‘free’
sugars added during food processing,
preparation or cooking, and in honey,
syrups and fruit juice”. A few months on,
the Scientific Advisory Committee on
Nutrition (SACN), which advises the
government on diet, recommended
slashing added sugars to 5% of daily
calories - “half the previous recommended
intake,” Hobson adds. Experts now agree
we should aim for around six teaspoons of
added sugars a day, but research suggests
most of us consume around 12.
Why is it so confusing?
“ Unfortunately, it’s not easy to tell how
much you consume, as sugar masquerades
under many different names. Fructose, for
example, may appear on labels as itself
or be concealed under the umbrella of
sucrose, which is half fructose, half
glucose,” explains Hobson.
“Weirdly, I sometimes find myself in
defence of sugar, as some people begin to
focus too much on this single nutrient and
become obsessed with anything that
contains a single grain of the stuff,” he
adds. “A little is fine - and yes, soft drinks
are a definite no-no - but worrying about
yoghurts and the odd glass of fruit juice
seems a bit over the top.
“It’s also funny that those worried about
sugar turn to ‘natural’ alternatives that
are essentially sugar, whether that’s in
the form of agave, maple syrup, coconut
sugar, date syrup or any other trendy food
product. There is also a certain comfort
and sense of occasion with sweet foods that
you just can’t get from any others. Can you
imagine being served a slice of sugar-free
birthday cake?”
One lump of common sense,
or two dear?
“The key is to take a sensible approach
to how you eat, and unfortunately that
goes back to the adage of everything
in moderation. Set a realistic goal for
reducing sugar that you can stick with in
the long-term, rather than go cold turkey,”
says Hobson. Here are his seven top tips
for reducing sugar the sensible way...
1. Check the label
Always check labels. Ingredients are
listed in order of amount, so the nearer the
top, the higher the quantity. Look for foods
with green and amber traffic light labels.
2. Seek out certain ingredients
Sucrose, glucose, fructose, or anything that
ends in -ose, as well as healthier sounding
alternatives, such as raw sugar, barley malt,
maple syrup, coconut nectar, palm sugar,
agave nectar, date sugar and brown rice
syrup are among sugar’s many guises.
3. Take your time
If you’re a sugar addict, cut the amount you
add to cereals, pancakes, tea or coffee by
half. Once you’ve got used to the taste, halve
the amount again.
4. Sweet food swaps
Try sweetening foods with a little fresh or
dried fruit or go for ‘sweet food options’
that are fruit based. A slice of malt loaf has
a quarter of the sugar content and twice the
fibre of a chocolate cookie.
5. Include proteins and fats
A Mediterranean diet, with protein from
fish, lean meat, cheese and yoghurt and
healthy fats mainly from olive oil, nuts and
seeds, will keep you more satisfied between
meals, which in turn means you are less
likely to reach for the biscuit tin.
6. Get spicy
Flavour foods that you would normally
sweeten with sugar, with spices.Try
ginger, allspice, nutmeg and cinnamon.
7. Don’t be a softie
Soft drinks are some of the biggest
offenders in boosting sugar intake.
But shop-bought smoothies, energy drinks,
fruit juices, iced teas, coffees and flavoured
waters can all be sugar-laden too.
50 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

water
Water is the second most
popular drink after fizzy
drinks! A shocking
statistic when you
consider that our love of sugary
drinks is one reason for soaring levels
of obesity, type 2 diabetes, stroke and
more.
And that’s not even taking into account
the rising popularity of specialist
coffees served in most high street coffee
bars laden with calories, sugar and fat –
which is contributing to our expanding
waistlines and the health problems that
go with it.
All reason enough to ditch the sugary
drinks and make water the number one
beverage of choice. But did you know
that water is also a great pick-me-up
and is one of the best health and beauty
products around. Here are five reasons
to drink more water:
Boost your brain power
85% of our brain is water – so being
dehydrated literally shrinks our brains!
Even 2% is enough to reduce your
attention, concentration, coordination
and memory skills – not forgetting
those dehydration headaches.
Perk yourself up
In a food and mood survey of 200
women, backed by mental health
charity MIND, 80% reported
that drinking more water
helped them mentally and
emotionally. Not surprising,
when you consider how
much dehydration
stresses the brain. What’s more, 2% dehydration can also affect physical
performance – making water a good all round pick-me-up.
Save on calories
Studies suggest women who drink more water are likely to weigh less. This makes
sense given that simply swapping sugary drinks for water (yippee, calorie free!) could
save you more than 200 calories per day. And with some specialist coffees containing
a whopping 500 calories, drinking water instead could save another quarter of your
recommended daily calorie intake.
Eat less
Hunger and thirst are easily confused - another reason why drinking more water can
help with weight loss. What’s more, studies show that filling up with water before or
with meals can reduce the amount of calories consumed.
Look more youthful
Did you know that one third of your skin is made up of
water? So one of the best beauty aids around is staying
hydrated. It keeps your skin cells plump and looking
brighter, and can help banish blemishes and improve
skin tone and clarity. Plus water is a good deal cheaper
than all those expensive anti-ageing creams many of us
slap on every day.
How much is enough?
But how can you ensure you’re drinking enough? A
rough daily guide is 8 glasses for women and 10 for men.
But this depends on a number of things, not least how
warm it is and how active you are.
A sensible guide is to make water your main drink of
choice and to drink little and often. If your pee is a
pale straw colour- as opposed to dark or clear - you
know that you’re getting it right!
Dr Sally Norton. NHS weight loss consultant surgeon
www.vavistalife.com
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017 51 |

sun
safety
Please don’t ever ever use sun beds says
a leading expert as yet another celebrity
posts a photo on Instagram of them using
a sun bed. Anna Gucova, Skin Cancer
Screening Nurse at The Mole Clinic
(www.themoleclinic.co.uk) explains
that most moles are harmless, but it is
important to check them regularly to make
sure they are not unusual-looking or new
or changing.
If you check your moles every few months,
and you notice an unusual-looking or new
or changing mole, it is important to get it
checked by an expert without delay. Many
people make the mistake of thinking skin
cancer is trivial. Melanoma is the least
common but most serious form of skin
cancer, caught early, it is easily treated but
caught late it can kill.
According to Nurse Anna Gucov,
self-monitoring is easier than you think.
Just follow the ‘ABCDE rule’ on what you
should be looking out for. Look for moles
that are Asymmetrical in shape; a jagged
Border; different Colours from one area to
another; a bigger Diameter than 7mm; and
whether the mole is Evolving or changing.
If you are worried, get your moles checked
by an expert.
Skin cancer is caused by UV damage done
to your skin – either by too much sun or
sun bed use. Sunbeds give out harmful
ultraviolet (UV) rays that damage your
skin. This can make it look wrinkled, older
or leathery which people seem to forget.
But more worryingly, it can also damage
the DNA in your skin cell and over time
this damage can build up to cause skin
cancer. The amount of UVA given off by
sunbeds can be 10-15 times higher than
the midday sun. Sunbeds can sometimes
be marketed as a ‘controlled way’ of
getting a ‘safer tan’ but sunbeds are no
safer than exposure to the sun itself, and
the amount of UV people receive varies
enormously too.
The Agency for Research on Cancer says
that sunbeds provide no positive health
benefits and using a sunbed before you go
on holiday doesn’t protect against further
damage from the sun while you’re away.
Even a sunburn in childhood can cause
skin cancer in an adult. Generally, people
are only usually aware about the risk of
skin cancer when on holiday and the sun
is shining. When our bodies are covered
up more we are less likely to spot a mole
and the importance of
keeping an eye on your
moles
that is a potential problem. Whilst skin
cancer can affect anybody, lighter skinned
people and those with lots of moles are at
higher risk.
Skin cancers have more chance to spread
the longer they are left. By checking your
moles regularly and spotting any signs of
change you can help detect any skin cancer
early - which greatly improves prognosis. A
change of size, shape and colour in moles
may indicate skin cancer. Normal moles do
change very gradually over years but more
noticeable changes should be checked by
an expert straight away.
When buying sunscreen, the label should have:
the letters “UVA” in a circle logo and at least four-star UVA
protection a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to protect
against UVB
The sun protection factor, or SPF, is a measure of the amount of
ultraviolet B radiation (UVB) protection.
The star rating measures the amount of ultraviolet A radiation
(UVA) protection. You should see a star rating of up to five stars
on UK sunscreens. The higher the star rating, the better.
The letters “UVA” inside a circle is a
European marking. This means the
UVA protection is at least one
third of the SPF value, and meets
EU recommendations. Sunscreens
that offer both UVA and UVB
protection are sometimes called
“broad spectrum”.
If you plan to be out in the sun
long enough to risk burning,
sunscreen needs to be applied twice:
30 minutes before going out, and
just before going out
Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed
skin, including the face, neck and ears – and
head if you have thinning or no hair – but a
wide-brimmed hat is better.
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied liberally
and frequently, and according to the
manufacturer’s instructions, including
straight after being in water, after towel
drying, sweating or when it may have
rubbed off.
Mole removal, whether of a suspicious
mole or for cosmetic reasons is usually
a quick, simple and painless procedure.
It is done under local anaesthetic at a
clinic, where consultant dermatologists or
surgeons advise on the most appropriate
procedure to remove the mole.
It is widely agreed that a combination
of measures including using shade and
clothing as the first lines of defence and
sunscreen for the parts you can’t cover,
offers the best protection against
over-exposure to UV radiation from
the sun, such as hats, long sleeved clothing
and sunglasses.
NeoStrata Sheer
Daily Protection
SPF 50 | £34 |
www.facethefuture.co.uk
Heliocare 360° Mineral Fluid
SPF50 £31| Heliocare Colour
Gel Cream SPF 50 £28 |
for more of the range visit
www.stripwaxbar.com
52 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Next Edition July/August
Deadline 10th June
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
53 |

awareness of dementia, plus things like
health and safety.
A ‘matching meeting’ is then held with the
volunteer, the person they’ve been paired
with and their family, and a Side by Side
coordinator.
could you help somebody
feel less lonely?
Loneliness is experienced by many
people as they get older, and for those
living with dementia, that feeling of
isolation can be even worse.
Research by the Alzheimer’s Society has
found nearly two-thirds (63%) of people
with dementia who live alone are lonely,
and a similar proportion feel anxious or
depressed.
But it doesn’t have to be that way -
and chances are, you can do something
about it.
LITTLE TIME, BIG DIFFERENCE
As little as a few minutes, whenever you
can fit it in, can make an enormous
difference to a person with dementia, and
that’s why the Alzheimer’s Society is trying
to recruit as many volunteers as possible
to its burgeoning Side by Side campaign,
which pairs volunteers and people with
dementia based on shared interests.
Kathryn Smith, Alzheimer’s Society’s
director of operations, is a Side by Side
volunteer herself. “Loneliness is a real
problem for people with dementia, yet we
know that one of the most important things
for those affected is to remain part of their
community and continue to do the things
they love - from going shopping to
enjoying a football match,” she says. “Side
by Side, offering one-to-one support, is a
vital step to making this a reality.”
Smith points out that, in the UK, around
225,000 in will develop the condition this
year, and 850,000 are currently living with
dementia - a figure that’s set to rise to one
million by 2021. “So it’s vital we all unite
and do what we can to make a meaningful
difference,” she stresses.
LOST FRIENDS
The campaign was first piloted in 2014,
after research found people with dementia
were more at risk of loneliness. A third said
they’d lost friends since their diagnosis,
and a few didn’t even tell friends they had
dementia.
And while two-thirds of people with
dementia still live in the community, many
feel trapped in their own homes, with
almost one in 10 only leaving the house
once a month.
That’s where Side by Side can make a
real difference. The initiative isn’t asking
volunteers to give huge chunks of their
time, just as much as they can spare
occasionally, to simply accompany a
person with dementia to something they’d
like to do - this could mean going to a
football match or a local garden centre
with them, strolling in the park, keeping
them company while going shopping or
attending appointments, or simply having
a chat over a cup of tea, or even on the
phone (the scheme is also looking for
volunteers just to ring people with
dementia and chat with them). Smith was
paired with a woman who loved to go out
for lunch, which is what they did together,
and has also been matched with a man
who likes horses; Smith rides so the two
immediately had a shared interest.
“Sometimes he might not want to go out at
all, he might just want some company, and
that’s fine,” she says. “Loneliness is one
of the biggest problems for people with
dementia, and we’ve got a big list of people
waiting to be matched up with volunteers.”
MUTUAL SUPPORT
Side by Side is currently available in 29
locations nationwide, and it’s hoped the
scheme will have been rolled out further by
the end of the year, as it now has a waiting
list of almost 2,000 people with dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Society provides
volunteers, who must be over 18 and
undergo a criminal records check, with
online training to give them a basic
“We make sure you’re going to hit it off,”
says Smith, “and if you don’t, it’s perfectly
fine for either person to say they don’t
think the match will work and can they try
someone else - although I don’t think
that’s happened yet.
“Even if you’ve only got half an hour
available once a month, there’ll be
somebody you can support with that. Or if
there’s something you already like doing,
like going for a walk in the park, just take
the person you’re matched with too.
“Some real friendships are being built
through this.”
WE LOVE IT!
Current Side by Side volunteers have
said they’ve gained and shared skills,
developed new friendships and even
enhanced their CV by taking part in the
scheme.
Irene Woodward, 66, who has dementia
and lives in Leicester, says since meeting
Side by Side volunteer Winnie Horton,
her life has changed for the better. “I was
at a low point when I first met Winnie - my
partner had died and then I was diagnosed
with Alzheimer’s. Meeting Winnie was a
breath of fresh air; we clicked from the start
and have had some great days out roaming
around charity shops and having cups of
tea and cake.
“Without sounding pleased about my
condition, I want to enjoy this stage of
Alzheimer’s as much as I can. My father
had dementia, so I’m aware of what might
be ahead, but my attitude is that life is
precious and still worth living.”
Fiona Phillips, broadcaster and
Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, was
recently paired with Irene too, because
they share a love of football. “Both my
parents had dementia, and I wish a service
like Side by Side had been in place for
my mum and dad,” says Phillips. “Just
because someone has dementia, doesn’t
mean they can’t keep doing the things they
enjoy - they may just need a little support.
“It was wonderful spending the day with
Irene and sharing our passion for football
by watching our rival teams - Leicester
City and Chelsea - play at the King Power
Stadium. We had so many laughs together
and it was inspiring to witness first-hand
what a difference Side by Side volunteers
can make to people living with dementia.”
54 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

POP IN
FOR A WARM
WELCOME!
Combining 21st century specialist architectural design with country house style,
Chiltern Grange is an empathetic and compassionate care home where residents can
enjoy life as their need for care increases. We offer 24-hour short and long-term
nursing and residential care for the elderly, as well as those living with dementia.
FIND OUT MORE ON 01494 480292
OR AT PORTHAVEN.CO.UK
CARE BEYOND COMPARE
NURSING CARE RESIDENTIAL CARE DEMENTIA CARE RESPITE CARE
Ibstone Road, Stokenchurch, Buckinghamshire HP14 3GG (Sat Navs HP14 3XR)
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
55 |

WIN WIN WIN
a Frenzy 145mm
recreational Scooter
Frenzy Scooters are designed for recreational and travelling use. to
school, work, or just for having fun. Frenzy focus on doing simple
scooters as all models are built with a unique folding mechanism to
enable small storage and easy carry straps to take with you when not
in use. Designed by Slamm Scooters. Available from Skates.co.uk
from £79.95.
Skates.co.uk and Living Along the Thames have teamed up for
one lucky winner to win a Frenzy Scooter. Please tell us who
the Scooters were designed by and send your details to
Office@AlongtheThames.co.uk by 9th June. In your email
please provide your name, address and phone number.
Win a four-ball at Temple
Golf Club in Hurley
Temple Golf Club mixes 100 years of history with a modern
approach to membership. The lifestyle membership at Temple
offers an affordable, flexible and family-friendly membership for
today’s golfer. For more information www.templegolfclub.co.uk
The chalk downland course was designed by the 1887 and
1889 Open Champion Willie Park Junior and to this day the
spirit of his ‘inland links’ course is maintained. With stunning
views over Marlow and the Thames Valley providing a
picturesque backdrop for the challenging 18 holes of golf.
Temple Golf Club and Living Along the Thames have
teamed up to offer one lucky reader a chance to win a
four-ball at Temple, answer the following question:
Q: who designed the Original course?
please send the answer, your name and phone number in
an email to Office@AlongtheThames.co.uk by the
9th June.
T&C’s: A Voucher (no cash value) will be sent to the winner and must be
used by 31st July 2017. The winner will need to contact the Club direct
on 01628 824795 or by email to secretary@templegolfclub.co.uk
to arrange a convenient date and time.
56 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

FATHERS
Day 18th June
Gift Guide
Linn’s series 5 Speaker System | from £9,600 | teamed with Harris
Tweed Hebrides & Timorous Beasties collection to create a range
of exclusive changeable covers | www.linn.co.uk
Fitbit Alta HR | Standard
£129.99 | Special Edition
£149.99 | www.fitbit.com
Caorunn Gin | RRP £27 |
www.caorunngin.com
Noble Isle Lightening
Oak Hair & Body
Wash | £20 |
www.nobleisle.com
R Chocolate London | Handmade truffles in
assortment of sizes | 4 (£7), 8 (£12.50),
16 (£25.00), 24 (£37.50) and 36 (£50) |
www.rchocolatelondon.co.uk
Graham’s Late Bottled
Vintage 2011 (75cl) |
RRP £13.50 | available
Tesco, Waitrose &
Sainsbury’s
Motorola’s VerveOnes wireless earbuds |
compatible with iOS and Android devices
| comes with Hubble connect for VerveLife
App | RRP £199.99 | www.verve.life/uk
The Craft Gin Club for lovers of all things
Gin! | monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly |
www.craftginclub.co.uk
Braun Multi Grooming
Kit 3060 (an 8-in-1 product)
| £52.49 | www.boots.com
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
Man Stuff Man Draw Gift Set |
£12.95 | www.justmylook.co.uk
57 |

Manners
maketh
the dog
e don’t expect tall
people to be
more polite
than short
ones, so why does it
appear there a general
acceptance of behaviour
from small dogs that
would not be tolerated
in large ones?
This weekend, while out locally, I was
told to put my dog on a lead because ‘it
was the more dangerous’. This followed
my dog, who weighs 37kg and is 27
inches at the shoulder, being attacked
by a cocker spaniel, without warning
or provocation. The owner obviously
knew this was going to happen as he
had just asked if my dog was ‘OK’, so
he was basically asking if my dog would
retaliate if his dog went for him. He
made no attempt made to stop his dog’s
behaviour because he was ‘too small to
be dangerous’ and it didn’t matter if he
went for a dog that was bigger than him.
My dog was horrified and backed away
with his body language saying ‘Wow
there, what’s your problem?’and gave
the cocker a wide berth.
I, however, was furious at the casual
acceptance that it didn’t matter if a small
dog goes for a large one. which is more
widespread than you think!
We go to an agility club where a
chihuahua regular heads away from
its owner and has a go at other dogs
training in the ring, including a very
large mastiff type dog. After this
happened several times in one evening,
the mastiff, pinned the chihuahua with
a single paw. There was no harm, just a
desire to stop the thing snapping at him.
There was immediate disapproval of the
mastiff. Had the mastiff behaved like the
chihuahua, it would have been banned
from the club.
It is common for people to laugh at a
small dog barking wildly at a big one.
Certainly, sometimes this can be a
fear reaction from the small dog, but
laughing isn’t going to help the dog get
over that fear. Just because a small dog
may inflict less significant damage than
a large one should not mean that no
action is taken to prevent behaviour that
may result in damage taking place. If the
large dog responds in a similar fashion,
then the blame is always squarely put on
the large dog.
So, if small dogs just ‘have a go’, there’s
no harm done? Well no, for lots of
reasons. If a large dog is frequently
got at by small dogs, he could come
to dislike them and may be inclined to
go in first, creating a problem. Also,
consider at what point in the size
differential does a small dog having a
go at a large one become ‘acceptable’?
Well, of course you can’t draw a line and
say that one ratio is okay, but another is
not, and in that case, it becomes obvious
that no size difference makes it okay for
a little dog to attack one larger than it.
Because we can control small dogs by
hanging onto them, it seems that we
don’t feel the same need to socialise
and educate them. However, in the
dog world, size does not matter. Body
language and audio signals, positive and
negative, are the same whether from
a cockerpoo or a Great Dane. Dogs
respond to the communication they
are receiving from each other without
regard to the size of dog and we should
do also. This is important for the safety
of dogs and people. A child can be
frightened by a small dog rushing up
and barking just as much as by a large
one. Large dogs are often much calmer
than small ones so, the assumption is
often that they will be problematic and
possibly aggressive.
All dogs should be well educated.
We should not renege on our
responsibilities just because the dog
won’t pull us over when on a lead or
the bite is less strong. Everyone should
spend time making sure their dogs
behave in a civilised way. It is part of
being a dog owner, and if you are not
willing to make the time, don’t have a
dog. A well-mannered dog should not
rush up to people or dogs, chase or
bark at joggers or cyclists, swing around
wildly on a taut lead mowing people
down, jump up at friends or strangers,
or bark for attention. A well-mannered
dog is more fun to own, can be taken
anywhere and is generally a happier
dog.
Let’s everyone take responsibility
for and manage our dogs behaviour
better.
Dru Ross
www.bigdogbedcompany.co.uk • Waterproof • Antibacterial • Hardwearing • Comfortable
58 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

It really is sensational, logic-defying performance
What’s under the bonnet?
A 3.9-litre V8 can be seen tucked deep
within the engine bay - behind the front
axle to aid weight distribution. The
GTC4Lusso T is designed with longdistance
cruising in mind, with 602bhp
and 760Nm of torque, there’s more than
enough performance to pin you to the
back of your seat should you desire. It
feels a little perverse talking about fuel
economy when there’s a Prancing Horse
on the bonnet, but official figures of
24mpg and CO2 emissions of 265g/
km are impressive for a car that offers
such pace.
ferrari gt c4 lusso t
What’s new?
Ferrari’s shooting brake now comes with the brand’s turbocharged V8 - hence the ‘T’
in the name - and circa £30,000 lopped off the asking price, but there’s a lot more to it
than simply offering an alternative to the naturally aspirated V12.
The engine, which we’re familiar with from the 488 GTB supercar, has been given new
pistons and a new intercooler design, while the exhaust system has been reworked to
reduce pressure and it’ll go about 30% longer between fuel stops.
The 10.25-inch high-definition touchscreen, introduced with the V12 model, works
like a tablet and is excellent, while the passenger’s screen gets new features such as the
ability to add navigation waypoints and take control of the music.
Looks and image
The GTC4Lusso is loosely based on its forebear, the FF. An engineer told us he would
guess it’s “about 70% new”, with a lot of the changes to the exterior coming from
improving aerodynamic performance and modernising the styling.
Inside, comfort is almost excellent. The seat design is clearly geared towards being
sporty - a very good thing when you’re going great guns, but mile-munching isn’t quite
as luxurious as it could be.
Space and practicality
The idea of this car is to offer all the space most owners could need for everyday use
and for the most part, it succeeds. Boot space is plentiful and would easily fit numerous
shopping bags or holdalls. Perhaps the only negative space-wise is within the cabin.
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
Behind the wheel
Thumb the wheel-mounted on/off
button and the engine barks into life
with a flurry of revs. The throttle pedal
takes a moment to get used to as there are
a few inches of travel before anything
happens, but once you’re on the
move, the engine’s responsiveness is
otherworldly as there’s no such thing as
turbo lag here! The four-wheel steering
makes the car super agile, particularly in
tighter turns, and the hyper-alert steering
helps the car dart across twisting tarmac
in a way that belies its 1.7-tonne heft.
The engine has a deep, gravelly tone that
gives the car an aggressive, purposeful
demeanour
Value for money
When you look at the performance
figures of the GTC4Lusso T compared
with the £30,000 dearer V12 version,
it does start to look like good value.
However, compared to rivals, it’s by far
the pricier option. Its closest rival is the
Mercedes-AMG S 65 at £188,550, while
the Bentley Continental GT Supersports
starts at a little over £177,000.
Who would buy one?
The GTC4Lusso T is aimed at a wider
profile of buyers than the brand is used
to. It’s looking at 30 to 45 year-olds
who live in the city and need a practical
car to carry passengers regularly. As it has
rear-wheel drive it’s also aimed at people
who live in warmer climates.
Verdict
There are compromises to be had,
yes, the ride is cosseting with the
wheel-mounted ‘manettino’ switch
turned to ‘comfort’, but it’s a little fussier
than a Bentley Continental when the
roads get rough.
59 |

Coffee
Break 1
2 3 4 5 6
ACROSS
7. Harden (5)
8. Ugly sight (7)
9. Axe (7)
10. Dialect (5)
12. Charm (10)
15. Updated (10)
18. Nascent (5)
19. Finance (7)
21. Flower (7)
22. Philander (5)
DOWN
1. Footpad (10)
2. Enthusiasm (5)
3. Network (4)
4. Epistle (6)
5. Average (8)
6. Importune (7)
11. Exploit (10)
13. Inexhaustible (8)
14. Issue (7)
16. Revenue (6)
17. Sober (5)
20. Blow (4)
7 8
9 10 11
12 13
14
15 16
17
18 19 20
Down: 1 Highwayman; 2 Gusto; 3 Mesh; 4 Letter;
5 Mediocre; 6 Solicit; 11Manipulate; 13 Tireless;
14 Edition; 16 Income; 17 Staid; 20 Puff.
21 22
Across: 7 Inure; 8 Eyesore; 9 Hatchet; 10 Idiom;
12 Attraction; 15 Modernised; 18 Natal; 19 Capital;
21 Blossom; 22 Flirt.
MARTIN ADAMS:MARTIN ADAMS.qxd 13/04/2010 10:31 Page 1
M a r t i n
VEHICLE SERVICING
a d a M s
YOUR LOCAL MOT SPECIALIST
A friendly family run business with
30 years experience
Servicing all cars, new and old also light
commercial vehicles.
• General car repairs and maintenance
• Free courtesy car available
• Tyres, exhausts and batteries supplied and fitted
• Latest diagnostic equipment for all makes of vehicle
• Air conditioning service available
• 30 Years Experience
01628 850000
email: info@mavs.co.uk
Alexander House, Wessex Industrial Estate, Bourne End
60 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Their FINEST
It’s tally ho and chocks away to a tumultuous period when upper
lips were jolly stiff and women on the home front actively served
the bomb-ravaged nation.
Based on Lissa Evans’ novel Their Finest Hour And A Half, Lone Scherfig’s
wartime comedy drafts frothy drama and heart-tugging romance into active
service, assisted by a starry and largely British cast.
Inveterate scene-stealer Bill Nighy delivers another masterclass in deadpan
delivery and arched eyebrows as a one-time screen idol, whose glory days are
far behind him.
Gemma Arterton is a delightful foil, banging a drum for gender equality in the face
of chauvinist condescension, with sterling support from the likes of Richard E
Grant, Helen McCrory, Eddie Marsan and Jeremy Irons.
The script, penned by Gaby
Chiappe, maintains a brisk
pace and a light tone
despite the grim historical
backdrop, celebrating the
power of cinema to dispel
the gloom during the
Second World War.
When her painter husband
Ellis (Jack Huston) fails
to sell his canvasses,
Catrin Cole (Arterton) takes
a paid position as a secretary
at the British Ministry of Information,
which produces
propaganda to buoy
the nation’s spirits.
Roger Swain (Grant) heads
up the film division and
he entreats scriptwriters
Tom Buckley (Sam Claflin)
and Raymond Parfitt (Paul
Ritter) to unearth a true
story of wartime heroism that embodies “authenticity with optimism” and can be
immortalised on celluloid.
The real-life rescue of wounded British soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk
by twin sisters using their father’s boat is just the ticket.
Their Finest is a sweet and charming confection with a full conscription of
reliable cliches to keep the cinematic fires burning.
Arterton and Claflin kindle a spiky on-screen romance, conflicted about their
feelings for each other until a supporting character observes, “When life is so
precious, it seems an awful shame to waste it.”
Period detail is solid throughout and director Scherfig makes light work
of the two-hour running time.
NT Live: Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf (12A)
Sonia Friedman Productions presents Imelda Staunton in James
Macdonald’s critically acclaimed, five-star production of Edward
Albee’s landmark play, broadcast live to cinemas from the Harold
Pinter Theatre, London.
Thu 18 May, 7.00pm
RSC Live: Antony & Cleopatra (12A)
Iqbal Khan returns to the RSC to direct Shakespeare’s
tragedy, which follows on from Julius Caesar.
Wed 24 May, 7.00pm
NT Encore: Rosencrantz And Guildenstern Are Dead (12A)
Daniel Radcliffe, Joshua McGuire and David star in Tom
Stoppard’s brilliantly funny situation comedy, broadcast
live from The Old Vic theatre in London.
Thu 25 May, 7.00pm
World Art: Raphael Lord Of The Arts (12A)
The first film adaptation of the life and work of one of
the most famous artists in the world, Raphael Sanzio.
Wed 31 May, 6.15pm
British Museum Presents Hokusai (TBC)
A groundbreaking documentary and exclusive private view of the
forthcoming British Museum exhibition Hokusai: Beyond The
Great Wave.
Sun 4 June, 3.00pm
ROH Live: The Dream (12A)
The Dream is Frederick Ashton’s (Founder Choreographer of
The Royal Ballet) adaptation of Shakespeare’s riotous comedy in
which a forest sprite plays havoc, armed with a love potion.
Wed 7 June, 7.15pm
NT Live: Peter Pan (PG)
A delight for children and adults alike, Sally Cookson
(NT Live: Jane Eyre) directs this wondrously inventive production,
a co-production with Bristol Old Vic theatre.
Sat 10 June, 2.00pm
Exhibition On Screen: Michelangelo (TBC)
To coincide with a glorious new exhibition at the National Gallery of
London, this film offers a full and fresh biography of Michelangelo.
Tue 13 June, 6.30pm
Picturehouse Pop-Up : Regal By The River
Our cinema under the stars returns to Mill Meadows for four days
of classic film from the 80’s.
Thu 15 – Sun 18 June from 7.00 with films at dusk
NT Live: Salomé (15)
This charged retelling turns the infamous biblical tale on its head,
placing the girl we call Salomé at the centre of a revolution.
Sat 22 June, 7.00pm
Regal Picturehouse, 2 Boroma Way,
Henley RG9 2BZ
0871 902 5738 | www.picturehouses.co.uk
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
61 |

Diary Dates
May
01 May - 30 Jun: ‘ RHS Wisley In the Night
Garden Adventure trails’
Subject to normal admission. RHS Garden Wisley,
Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB | 0845 260 9000
www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
12-28: ‘Thames Valley History Festival’
Windsor | 01753 743585
20 May-04 Jun: ‘ Henley Chelsea Fringe’
various locations
29 Apr- 03 Jun: ‘Wycombe Arts Festival’
programmes from the Marlow Information Centre,
Marlow Library – 01628 483597.
Sundays + Thursdays: ‘House Chapel Tours’
let our knowledgeable guides lead you into the famous
Cliveden House and the remarkable Octagon Temple
Chapel, 15:00-17:00, £2 plus normal admission –
01628 605069.
06+07,13+14,20+21,27+28:
‘Game of Clues Murder Mystery’
a new game around the gardens of Cliveden, band together
with your family and friends to solve the murder of Lord
Mucke, seek out clues, solve puzzles and unravel the
mystery, £5 per group, 8+ years, between 10:00-15:00.
10-21: ‘Cookham Festival’
to find out about this year’s jam packed programme of
events pick up a booklet from Marlow Information Centre
or visit www.cookhamfestival.org.uk
12: Quiz Night at Bourne End Library
19:00 for 19:30 start, tickets £10 includes a Fish & Chip
Supper, tickets from Bourne End Library or 0845 2303232.
13: ‘Spring Ranger Walk’
at Hughenden Manor, discover spring flowers on this walk
through bluebell woodlands with one of our rangers (not
suitable for dogs this time) £4 plus admission, to book call
01494 755573.
13: ‘Chiltern Camerata Concert’ – Nielsen:
Clarinet Concerto, soloist Many Burvill conductor: Sam
Laughton as part of Wycombe Arts Festival at St Lawrence’s
Church, West Wycombe, 19:30-21:30 - £12/£10, under 18’s
free, tickets from Marlow Information - 01628 483597.
14: ‘Pann Mill Open Day’
the Rye, High Wycombe, a chance to see the mill in
operation, 11.00-17.00, as part of the Wycombe Arts
Festival, free admission.
14: ‘Bohemian Wedding Festival’
12:00-17:00, Culden Farm, Fawley, Henley RG9 3AP.
Tickets £10, kids free
14: ‘ Maidenhead Juniors Regatta’
see page 10 for details
15: ‘Henley Management College
Greenlands’ talk by Richard Walker for The Marlow Society
at Liston Hall, 20:00, £4.
15-29: ‘Chilterns Walking Festival’
www.visitchilterns.co.uk/walkingfest
18: The Four Seasons – ‘Literary Luminaries of Bucks’
speaker Denise Beddows, at Liston Hall, Chapel Street,
£2, 14:30.
18: An evening with Rachel Rhys author of
‘Dangerous Crossing’
at Bourne End Library, 19:00 for 19:30 start, tickets
£8 includes a drinks reception from Bourne End Library
or 0845 2303232.
19: Afternoon tea with Mark Mason
Walk the Lines London Underground at Bourne End Library,
19:00 for 19:30 start, tickets £8 includes a drinks reception
from Bourne End Library or 0845 2303232.
19-21: Tom Kerridge presents ‘Pub in the Park’
gourmet food, cracking music, chef demonstrations, craft
beer, shopping village and much more in Higginson Park –
for tickets visit – www.pubintheparkuk.com.
20: ‘Rock the Moor’ The Retro 80’s Festival
Cookham – www.letsrockthemoor.com
20: ‘Henley Street Food Festival’
10:00-23:00, Hart St, Henley.
Info H.Barnett@henleytowncouncil.gov.uk
21: Happy’s Circus
Marlow Bottom Playing Fields, 14:00, tickets £8 each,
£30 Family of 4, £35 family of 5, Under 2’s Free – email:
fob.mail@gmail.com or Burford School 01628 486655.
21: ‘Tree climbing - NT Greys Court’,
RG9 4PG, 01491 628529 - Highly skilled and friendly
instructors can help all ages reach new heights in a
fantastic tree at Greys Court. Tickets £20
23: The Four Seasons – ‘Saville Gardens’ trip
£23.50, 09:15 from the Marlow Donkey to become a
member call – 01628 484528.
23: ‘Festival Jazz’ in association with Marlow Jazz Club,
The Garry Potter ‘Hot Club’ Quartet as part of the Wycombe
Arts Festival at the Royal British Legion Hall, Marlow, 20:00,
£10 from Marlow Information Centre on 01628 483597.
62 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Diary Dates
25: ‘Behind the Scenes Tour’
at Hughenden Manor, join a member of the house team
for a 45 minute tour behind the scenes, see our conservation
in action and get a sneak peep into some of our store
room, 11:00-12:00, £4 plus normal admission to book call
01494 755573.
25: ‘BBO Big Band’
at the Marlow Royal British Legion in aid of The Walk Centre
Kenya, 20:15, £8 on the door.
25: ‘Marlow & the River Trade - Julian Hunt’
an AIM talk, 20:00, Garden Room, Liston Court SL7 1DD
members £3, non-members £4.50
26: An evening with Gerald Seymour
author of ‘Jericho’s War’ at Bourne End Library, 19:00 for
19:30 start, tickets £10 includes a drinks reception from
Bourne End Library or 0845 2303232.
27: An evening with Vaseem Khan
author of ‘The Strange Disappearance of a Bollywood Star’
at Bourne End Library, 18:00 – 20:00 start, tickets £8 includes
a drinks reception & Indian Street Food from Bourne End
Library or 0845 2303232.
27 May – 04 Jun: ‘Bugs and Beasties’
There’s a creepy crawly theme to the half term activities, pick
up a craft pack and make a bug friend then hunt for bugs in
the walled garden, at Hughenden Manor, £2, plus admission
10:30-16:00.
28: ‘Town Walk’ (guided walk)
for The Marlow Society, meet at 10:00 at Marlow Museum,
£2.50 per person, children free.
28: Frogfest
High Street, High Wycombe, two main stages, roaming
performers, children’s activities and festival food,
11:30- 21:30 Free!
28: ‘Serenade to Summer’
with the Elysian Singers conducted by Sam Laughton,
music for all ages, as part of the Wycombe Arts Festival at
St Lawrence’s Church, West Wycombe Hill, £12 from Marlow
Information Centre - 01628 483597 or on door.
29 May -02 Jun: ‘Wild Week’
get muddy, wet or crafty at Cliveden this half term, fun
outdoors whatever the weather, drop-in sessions 10:00-15:00
last session 14:30, children must be accompanied, £2 plus
admission suitable for ages 4-11 years - 01628 605069.
30: ‘Beasts and Butterflies Walk’
be a nature detective on this walk with a ranger through
Hughenden’s Estate as you learn to catch and identify bugs,
10:30-12:00 for 4+ years, £4 plus admission at Hughenden
Manor.
31: ‘Phantom or Fantasy?’
the restless imagination of Walter de la Mare. An illustrated
talk given to you by Sally Brocklehurst, as part of the
Wycombe Arts Festival at Church House (next to Hughenden
Church) Hughenden Park, 20:00, £8 tickets from Marlow
Information Centre - 01628 483597 or on door.
June
Sundays + Thursdays: ‘House Chapel Tours’
let our knowledgeable guides lead you into the famous
Cliveden House and the remarkable Octagon Temple
Chapel, 15:00-17:00, £2 plus normal admission –
01628 605069.
Daily in June NT Greys Court Rose Garden comes to life
RG9 4PG, 01491 628529
02-17 Love Marlow Festival
www.lovemarlow.co.uk
02: ‘Creepy Crawley Roadshow’
Join an expert for a one hour show meeting creatures from
the rainforest, at Hughenden Manor, £5 plus admission for
2-12 years, 10:30-11:30.
03+04,10+11,17+18,24+25: ‘Game of Clues Murder
Mystery’ a new game around the gardens of Cliveden, band
together with your family and friends to solve the murder of
Lord Mucke, seek out clues, solve puzzles and unravel the
mystery, £5 per group, 8+ years, between 10:00-15:00.
02+03+04: ‘Beale Park Boat & Outdoor Show’
www.bealeparkboatandoutdoorshow.co.uk
03: ‘British Iris Society Summer Show’
See colourful displays of summer-flowering irises, including
photographic displays and plant sales. 11am – 4pm,
RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB
04: ‘Last Night at the Proms’
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra invites you to join
them for the ultimate British spectacular! as part of the
Wycombe Arts Festival, at The Swan Theatre St Mary Street,
High Wycombe, 19:30 – 01494 512000.
05-24: ‘June in Bloom’
Celebrate flowers coming into bloom throughout the
gardens at Hughenden, relax in a deckchair on the parterre
and admire floral displays in the Manor, 10:00-17:00,
free event but normal admission applies.
06: ‘Rebellion Brewery Open Night’
All ales currently being brewed available on the night.
Talks also given on brewing history and methods,
19:00-21:30, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT.
All welcome, £12.50pp, BBQ all year round!
07-25: ‘Wargrave Festival’
www.wargravefestival.org.uk
07: ‘Tour with Hughenden’s Gardener’
Join the gardener for a tour around the gardens including
the Cherry Orchard and Glasshouse areas normally closed
to the public, 10:30-11:30, £4 plus normal admission at
Hughenden Manor.
08: General Election
10: ‘Thames Valley Air Ambulance Open Gardens’
Little Paddocks, New Road, Bourne End, SL8 5BX, 14:00-
15:00, adults £5.
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
63 |

Diary Dates
10+11: ‘Marlow Town Regatta & Festival’
Pitches and Badges from the Marlow Information Centre –
01628 483597.
10-25: ‘Bucks Open Studios’
www.bucksopenstudios.org.uk
13 +14 : ‘Rhododendron, Magnolia and Camellia Show’
- On top of a riot of colour in the competition classes,
information on lime-tolerant rhododendrons, expert advice
and free tours will fill this magnificent show. RHS Garden
Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB | 0845 260 9000
www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
14: ‘ Rivertime Accessible Regatta’
Children & young adults with disabilities from local schools
in conjunction with Rivertime Boat Trust & Give them a
Sporting Chance | www.rivertimeboattrust.org.uk
16-18: ‘Henley Women’s Regatta’
17: ‘Marlow Regatta’
Dorney Lake www.themarlowregatta.com
17+18: ‘Father’s Day Model Train Exhibition’
Wycombe & District Model Railway Society will be back
at Hughenden with an exhibition of mixed layouts
including an interactive children’s layout, at Hughenden
Manor 10:30-16:00.
17 +18: ‘Plant Society Show’
Annual Plant Society show featuring colourful displays,
plants for sale and masterclasses. . RHS Garden Wisley,
Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB | 0845 260 9000
www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
20: ‘Photography Morning’
Enjoy an early spring morning in the garden to take the
perfect photograph of the spring colour. Open from 7.30am.
RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB |
0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
21: ‘Rick Steins Sunset Cinema’
Clivededn House Hotel - www.clivedenhouse.co.uk
21-25: ‘Boodles at Stoke Park’
www.boodles.com
24: ‘Rock Bottom’
Family open air concert featuring fantastic live music.
www.marlowrockbottom.weebly.com
24: ‘Town Walk’
Guided walk for The Marlow Society, meet at 10:00 at
Marlow Museum, £2.50 per person, children free.
24: ‘The Wind in the Willows – Open Air Theatre’
Alive with music and song this magical family show is
presented in beautiful traditional costume and features a
woodland parade during the interval for everyone to join in
with at West Wycombe Park, 18:30.
25: ‘Cookham Dean Charity Tennis &
Croquet Tournament’
www.cookhamdean.net
25: ‘Tree climbing - NT Greys Court’
RG9 4PG, 01491 628529 - Highly skilled and friendly
instructors can help all ages reach new heights in a
fantastic tree at Greys Court.
27– 4 June: ‘Budding Gardeners’
As part of the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, local
schools will build their own mini show garden, to be judged
by the garden’s Curator. The gardens will be on show until 4
June and there will also be the chance for the public to vote
for their favourite. Sponsored by Rotary. RHS Garden
Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB | 0845 260 9000
www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
27+28: ‘Birds of Prey’
Bring the whole family to discover all about birds of prey.
See the magnificent birds up close, with agility displays
at 11am and 2pm. . RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley, Woking,
Surrey, GU23 6QB | 0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
28 Jun – 02 Jul:
‘Henley Royal Regatta’ www.hrr.co.uk
29: ‘BBO Big Band’
At the Marlow Royal British Legion, 20.15, £8 on the door
07 May–04 Jun: ‘Bugs and Slugs’
Join us for a week of exciting free activities, including sow
and grow workshops, as well as arts and crafts sessions, all
themed around the fascinating world of bugs and slugs.
RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB
0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
July
01-03: ‘ Best of British Festival’
Royal Windsor Racecourse. Sundays + Thursdays: ‘House
Chapel Tours’ let our knowledgeable guides lead you into
the famous Cliveden House and the remarkable Octagon
Temple Chapel, 15:00-17:00, £2 plus normal admission –
01628 605069.
64 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

Diary Dates
01: ‘Samaritans Cycle’
25,50 or 80 miles at West Wycombe
Park, tickets available from
www.britishcycling.org.uk.
0845 260 9000 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley
04: ‘Rebellion Brewery
Open Night’
All ales currently being brewed
available on the night. Talks also given
on brewing history and methods,
19.00-21.30, Bencombe Farm, Marlow
Bottom, SL7 3LT. All welcome,
£12.50pp, BBQ all year round!
08: ‘West Wycombe Summer Fayre
& Classic Car Show’
Annual summer fayre in the beautiful
National Trust grounds of West
Wycombe, 11:30-16:00.
05-09: ‘Henley Festival’
From 18:00
ONGOING EVENT
Markets
Maidenhead Produce Market
1st and 3rd Thursday of the month on
Maidenhead High Street
The Farmers Market
2nd Sunday of the month from 10:00,
Grove Street Car Park
Bourne End Country Market
Small Hall 10 - 12, Every Friday
Henley Farmers Market
every 4th Thursday in Falaise Square,
Henley, 8:30-14:00
Bourne End Community Market
second Saturday of every month 10:00
- 13:00 in the Jackson Room of Bourne
End Library.
Transition Town Marlow
last Saturday of every month | 9:30 -
13:00 | Liston Hall, Chapel St, Marlow
07904 369829
At time of print all dates are correct.
For more information/changes
to schedules as listed or information
please call Marlow Information
Centre on 01628 483597 or
Maidenhead Library on 01628
796969 or Henley Library on
01491 575278. To add an event:
office@alongthethames.co.uk
ONGOING events
Marlow Art & Craft Society
1st Thursday in month | 19:30 Marlow Bottom Village Hall
Marlow Antique bric-a-brac fair
1st Saturday of the month at Liston Hall | 9:00 - 16:00
Marlow Museum
March to October, Saturday, Sunday, bank holidays 13:00-17:00,
Wednesday 14:00-17:00
Marlow Camera Club
every Tuesday | 19:45 - 20:00 | The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street,
Marlow, SL7 3HJ
Henley Photographic Club
every Tuesday evening | 20:00 - 22:00 | YMCA Hall,
off Waterman’s Road, Henley www.henleyphotoclub.com
Stanley Spencer Gallery
30th March – 1 October ‘ An Artistic Affair’, High St, Cookham,
Maidenhead SL6 9SJ. 10:30-17:00 | www.stanleyspencer.org.uk
Speak Spanish in Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield High School
Wednesdays | 19:30 | Suitable for all levels except beginners |
Tony on 07947 508755 | anthony.mitchelmore@sky.com
Maidenhead Camera Club
every Tuesday, Cox Green Community Centre | 01628 630861
The East Berks RSPB Group
monthly | 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Thursdays High Street Methodist
Church Hall, Maidenhead www.eastberksrspb.org.uk
Maidenhead Heritage Centre
last Wednesday of the month | WRVS, Maidenhead | 780555
Colenorton Dragon Boat Club
Sunday 10.00 - 12.30 | Bray Lake Water Sports, Maidenhead SL6 2EB |
www.colenorton.co.uk
South Bucks Walking Group
Regular walks programme + club weekends, coach rambles, and
other social walking events | Di Olden - 01494 714486 |
www.southbuckshfwalkingclub.co.uk
Cookham & Cookham Dean Horticultural Society
last Wednesday of the month from January - May & September -
November | 19:30 | Cookham Dean Village Hall |
clairephillpot@btinternet.com
Maidenhead National Trust
second Thursday of every month, except August, at the Jakoby Drama Studio at
Desborough College, Maidenhead. More details can be found on our web site at
www.Maidenheadnta.org.uk.
Jazz
Every Thursday | 20:30| Hedsor Social Club, Hedsor Rod, Bourne End,
SL8 5ES | £6
Henley & Goring Ramblers
No need to book, just turn up, we are a friendly group and new walkers and non
members are always welcome | www.ramblers-oxon.org.uk
Midsomer Walking Tours
Now – 28 October – 11:00-12:00 | The Argyll Pub, Henley-on-Thames
| info@theargyllhenley.co.uk
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
65 |

Useful
Numbers
CLUBS:
MAIDENHEAD
Rotary Club of Maidenhead 632797
The Maidenhead Players 07879 476301
Maidenhead Drama Guild 635017
Maidenhead Operatic Society 671589
Maidenhead Musical
Comedy Society 07813 979894
Grimm Players 820429
Maidenhead Concert Band 624514
Maidenhead Folk Club 448268
Tuesday Singers 629012
Athletics 522797
Maidenhead & Bray CC 07885 240209
North Maid enhead Cricket Club 624137
Rugby 629663
Hockey 622669
Desborough Bowls Club 629403
Rowing 622664
SportsAble 627690
Maidenhead Tennis 623785
Thames Valley Cycling Club 638984
East Berks Badminton 636283
Maidenhead Camera Club 630861
East Berkshire Ramblers 634561
Lions Club of Maidenhead 634333
Maidenhead Golf Club 624693
Five Aces Duplicate Bridge Club 625663
River Thames Society 624025
Belmont Badminton Club 638844
Scottish Dancing Club 628372
Stanley Spencer Gallery 471885
COOKHAM
Tennis & Croquet 07968 173757
Line Dancing 486362
Petanque 417453
Cookham Bridge Rotary Club 07724 042708
Cookham & Bourne End
Inner Wheel Club 07715 441713
Bourne End & Cookham Rotary 810967
HENLEY
Rotary Club of Henley Bridge 01491 628284
Henley Rowing Club 01491 573943
Henley Players 01491 636253
Henley Hawks Rugby Club 01491 574499
Henley Cricket Club 01491 577743
Lions Club of Henley 01491 576717
Henley Bowling Club 01491 579271
Henley Tennis Club 01491 572230
Henley Hockey Club 01491 576988
Henley Wednesday Bridge Club 01491 573958
Henley Choral Society 01491 576929
HADISC Badminton Club 01491 577909
Henley Music School 07989 396210
Henley Henley-on-Thames U3A 07901 674779
MARLOW
Liston Hall 472558
Archaeology in Marlow 481792
Marlow Archaeological Society 523896
Bowls 485274
Boxing 01494 532826
Crafts 473872/473539
Football 483970
Hockey 521830
Plants (Orchids) 486640
Petanque 521783
Photography 483030
Rugby 483911/477054
Marlow Striders 475548
Four Seasons Club 484528
Tennis 483638
New Marlow Tennis Academy 488438
Rifle & Pistol Club 01494 676676
ALF (Longridge) 486595
Marlow & District Wine Society 483294
Marlow Museum 01628 482515
Marlow Society/History 476140
MOAS 07899 867757
Rotary Club 01494 530952
LETS 01494 523978
U3A 485220/488865
Community Choir 602581/661182
Railway Society 01494 488283
Choral Society 472998
Marlow Orators 07738 540287
COUNCIL SERVICES
MARLOW
Bus Services 0871 2002233
Marlow Information centre 483597/481717
Library 0845 2303232
Town Council 484024
Neighbourhood Watch - Nic Martin 01895 837220
Wycombe Council 01494 461000
RBWM
Bus Services 0871 2002233
CIS 507587
Council Tax 683850
Library - Cox Green 673942
Library - Holyport Container 796555
Library - Maidenhead 796969
Library - Cookham 526147
Recycling 796474
Town Hall 683800
Youth & Community Centre 685999
Thames Valley Adventure Playground 628599
HENLEY
Henley Library 01491 575278
Henley Town Council 01491 576982
BOURNE END
Library 524814
Community Centre 527502
66 | Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017

‘Hotel Chef of the Year -
ChrisWheeler’
HOTEL CATEYS 2016
★★★★★
Celebrated Chef Chris Wheeler invites you to indulge your
tastebuds at Humphry’s, Stoke Park’s award winning restaurant.
Open to all, Humphry’s fine dining restaurant allows you to
enjoy ‘an experience you want to relive again and again’
(At Home with Marco Pierre White).
Named as one of the ‘Best of Britain’ in the Tatler Restaurant
Guide, Humphry’s innovative take on Modern British Cuisine
and enviable wine list provides an unforgettable treat, all set
within the sumptuous, romantic surroundings of Stoke Park’s
Georgian mansion.
Sunday Lunch : 12.00pm – 2.30pm
Wednesday - Sunday : Dinner 7.00pm – 10.00pm
To make a reservation please call 01753 717172
or email reservations@stokepark.com
Living Along The Thames | MAY / JUNE 2017
www.stokepark.com
67 |