Newmarket and Ely Living Oct - Nov 2023
The Pre-Christmas edition is here - as the weather cools, the events calendar heats up, with lots of fun for all the family. We've also got some lovely recipes to welcome in the autumn and home and garden inspiration if you're planning on welcoming guests over the festive season.
The Pre-Christmas edition is here - as the weather cools, the events calendar heats up, with lots of fun for all the family. We've also got some lovely recipes to welcome in the autumn and home and garden inspiration if you're planning on welcoming guests over the festive season.
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Computer generated image is indicative only. Prices correct at time of print.
C O N T E N T S<br />
A NOTE<br />
from the editor<br />
18 12<br />
INTERIOR HOME FOR UPDATES XMAS<br />
Editor Katie Thomson<br />
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
Assistant Editor Kate Norris<br />
Publisher Sally Thomson<br />
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose<br />
Contributors<br />
Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,<br />
Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence<br />
JACK AUTUMNAL STEIN BAKING INTERVIEW & RECIPE<br />
22 19<br />
FOR ADVERTISING<br />
Account Manager Joe Crossley<br />
e joe@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
t 01225 984505<br />
Front Cover courtesy of Rockett St George<br />
04<br />
COMPETITIONS<br />
10 27<br />
PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS<br />
AKTAR ISLAM<br />
MINERVA PUBLICATIONS<br />
Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,<br />
Hilperton BA14 6JB<br />
t 01225 984 550<br />
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Printed on sustainably sourced paper.<br />
Please recycle this copy or pass it along<br />
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Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be<br />
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The opinions expressed within are not<br />
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I write this note on the day<br />
I of intense had my discussion first English about<br />
strawberry the future of this GCSEs. week, I’m <strong>and</strong> sure my<br />
word, we can it was all recollect beyond delicious what a<br />
- tough perfectly time exam sweet, season it was was a<br />
very - <strong>and</strong> good how dramatic advert for we eating may<br />
seasonally. have felt about I’ve the tried impact to echo of<br />
this those in results all my recent on our fruit lives <strong>and</strong> -<br />
vegetable only to realise purchases, in the fullness <strong>and</strong> it’s<br />
had of time, a transformative it’s not the sole effect thing on<br />
my that cooking makes or - everything breaks a life’s just<br />
tastes trajectory. better - more vibrant,<br />
needing less seasoning <strong>and</strong><br />
just Here overall in the office, very tasty. we’ve been<br />
comparing all our own results<br />
I’m stories, making <strong>and</strong> whether most they of<br />
cooking were ones whilst of celebration I still have or a<br />
kitchen commiseration, - mine is we due all to agree be<br />
ripped that, with out hindsight, two weeks <strong>and</strong> can<br />
it look will be back camping at our stove school <strong>and</strong><br />
air experience frying for <strong>and</strong> two observe months from how<br />
there! it has shaped I’ve already us, but picked not that my<br />
kitchen, defined but us. it got me thinking<br />
about all the other areas that<br />
need It seems updating only right in my to home. reflect If<br />
you on school are thinking as we of come a similar into<br />
refresh, open day please season check - if you out have our<br />
home children pages or gr<strong>and</strong>children this edition still -<br />
they’re on their full educational of inspiring journey, trends<br />
<strong>and</strong> we have a few some timeless advice classics. to help<br />
choose the right school.<br />
We’ve also got some lovely<br />
editorial On the foodie on the side best of things plants<br />
for this pollinators edition, we - it’s have never an<br />
been interview so important with Michelin to support chef<br />
wildlife Aktar in Islam, the garden. plus some<br />
delicious recipes for the<br />
The autumn. competition guide this<br />
issue is a bumper one - we<br />
have If you an outdoor have furniture visitors<br />
set descending from Bramblecrest at Christmas, worth<br />
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well<br />
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Please don’t forget to check<br />
We our website will be for back our again bumper in<br />
August crop of competitions.<br />
- I’ll be fully rebooted<br />
<strong>and</strong> recharged into summer<br />
mode. That’s See all you from then! me - I’m<br />
sorry to say that the next<br />
time you see us, we will be<br />
Katie<br />
in Christmas mode. Fair<br />
warning! Ho ho ho!<br />
Katie<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 5
Cherry Picking<br />
your Boarding School<br />
KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR OPEN DAYS<br />
It is a myth that boarding schools<br />
shut down for July <strong>and</strong> August, but<br />
it is equally a truth that they become<br />
hives of activity at the beginning of<br />
a new autumn term. Schools will<br />
enthusiastically prepare to welcome<br />
prospective families to their first open<br />
days as they look to take the first<br />
steps towards establishing the life-long<br />
relationships that epitomise their role.<br />
A boarding school can offer a unique<br />
<strong>and</strong> enriching experience, fostering<br />
independence, academic excellence,<br />
<strong>and</strong> personal growth. Attending a<br />
boarding school open day is an essential<br />
step in the decision-making process,<br />
giving you the opportunity to immerse<br />
yourself in the school’s environment,<br />
underst<strong>and</strong> its values, <strong>and</strong> evaluate<br />
whether it’s the right fit for your child’s<br />
individual needs.<br />
Before you step foot through the school<br />
gates, here are the three steps to success<br />
in choosing a boarding school:<br />
1. SPEAK TO STUDENTS<br />
Speak to students during your<br />
visit – they will give you an honest<br />
account of the boarding experience!<br />
Observe how they interact with<br />
you, are they confident <strong>and</strong> do<br />
they engage in conversation? Do<br />
they speak enthusiastically <strong>and</strong><br />
positively about the school? Look<br />
out for staff <strong>and</strong> pupil interactions<br />
<strong>and</strong> not just between those who<br />
are on open day ‘duty’. Is there<br />
two-way respect between staff <strong>and</strong><br />
students? How do students behave<br />
with <strong>and</strong> treat one-another?<br />
1. SIZE, FACILITIES, AND<br />
LOCATION<br />
Are you looking for a school<br />
which will offer a vast range of<br />
opportunities <strong>and</strong> experiences<br />
as part of a huge boarding<br />
community? Or will your child<br />
feel overwhelmed <strong>and</strong> lost in this<br />
environment? Does the location<br />
of the school suit your family<br />
circumstances?<br />
Notice how the boarding facilities<br />
are presented. Are they well looked<br />
after? Do they feel homely <strong>and</strong><br />
welcoming? Draw your attention<br />
to the wall displays - do they<br />
demonstrate inclusivity <strong>and</strong><br />
diversity or are they different<br />
versions of the same thing?<br />
How is safeguarding prioritised in<br />
boarding? What security measures<br />
does the school have in place<br />
to ensure student safety? What<br />
are the pupil <strong>and</strong> staff ratios in<br />
boarding houses <strong>and</strong> who is on site<br />
overnight?<br />
1. STUDENT WELLBEING<br />
Ask questions about the school’s<br />
commitment to care. What is the<br />
procedure if a boarder feels unwell<br />
during the night? How does the<br />
school manage day-to-day medical<br />
provision? What is their policy with<br />
regards to parent communication?<br />
Learn <strong>and</strong> ask questions about the<br />
school’s approach to mental health<br />
<strong>and</strong> wellbeing. Are counselling<br />
services available to boarders <strong>and</strong><br />
what measures are in place to<br />
prevent bullying or discrimination?<br />
Do students know who they can<br />
talk to if they have any concerns or<br />
worries?<br />
A boarding school is a hungry<br />
place! Are food options balanced,<br />
varied, <strong>and</strong> accommodating of<br />
dietary needs? The boarders<br />
themselves will be the first to tell<br />
you if they enjoy the food provided<br />
or whether they order pizza to their<br />
houses three times a week.<br />
The range <strong>and</strong> diversity of boarding<br />
schools is huge. Thankfully, so is the<br />
information available on the internet, so<br />
do narrow your search down by checking<br />
out websites <strong>and</strong> speaking to your<br />
current Head. Once you have your list of<br />
schools to visit, enjoy the experience –<br />
open days are normally great fun as well<br />
as being tremendously informative.<br />
The Boarding Schools’ Association<br />
(BSA) is part of the BSA Group. BSA<br />
Group supports excellence in boarding,<br />
safeguarding, inclusion <strong>and</strong> health<br />
education, serving more than 1,500<br />
organisations <strong>and</strong> people in 40 countries<br />
worldwide. Since its foundation in 1965-<br />
6, BSA has promoted boarding education<br />
<strong>and</strong> the development of quality boarding<br />
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<strong>and</strong> boarding accommodation.<br />
6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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Entrants must be over 18y/o. Please note,<br />
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 9
AKTAR<br />
ISLAM<br />
Unleashed<br />
Sally Thomson caught up with the Michelin<br />
starred chef to discuss inspiration, teamwork <strong>and</strong><br />
hospitality after Covid...<br />
When I read your website the first<br />
thing that struck me was your<br />
strapline, ‘Opheem is just me,<br />
Unleashed’. Would you like to tell<br />
us more?<br />
Well, over the years I’ve always<br />
worked with other people. For<br />
example, in my last business,<br />
everyone had a say on how the food<br />
was presented. For example, you’d<br />
put a dish together <strong>and</strong> in its initial<br />
conceptual stage to where it ended<br />
up was far removed from what it<br />
was supposed to be.<br />
I underst<strong>and</strong> the unleash bit on<br />
your website - now you’re being<br />
totally yourself?<br />
I am lucky to do what I enjoy. The<br />
only thing that I’m constrained by<br />
is the produce that I’ve got access<br />
to, whatever is coming out of the<br />
l<strong>and</strong>, whatever is coming out of our<br />
seas. And the seasons. I’ve always<br />
worked with seasons <strong>and</strong>, it’s just<br />
natural for me to cook.<br />
What was it like when you<br />
received your Michelin star?<br />
Obviously, it’s an incredible<br />
experience to achieve such an<br />
award. It was lovely, incredible<br />
to achieve it a year after I set up<br />
Opheem especially after the years of<br />
constraints that I’ve experienced.<br />
I’m very proud of my team. I’m<br />
proud of everyone within the<br />
business. Because though I set<br />
the vision, the direction, we’re all<br />
in the boat together <strong>and</strong> we’re all<br />
rowing that boat together. When<br />
the waters are choppy we all have<br />
to experience that together. It’s the<br />
power of the team.<br />
Covid was a really difficult time<br />
for the hospitality industry - how<br />
did you navigate that time?<br />
We started Aktar at Home, but that<br />
became something much bigger<br />
than I expected.<br />
With Aktar at Home, it’s all about<br />
investing in the community <strong>and</strong><br />
creating jobs - much of the time for<br />
people that lost their jobs as a result<br />
of the p<strong>and</strong>emic. There are teams<br />
who are in the portioning <strong>and</strong> the<br />
packing team <strong>and</strong> the processing<br />
team. They’re all people who are<br />
from the inner city of Birmingham,<br />
you know, aged 25 <strong>and</strong> below<br />
who traditionally struggled to find<br />
employment. So, we give them a<br />
chance <strong>and</strong> an opportunity to join<br />
the team <strong>and</strong> develop within the<br />
team. And obviously they’re paid well<br />
above national living wage to make<br />
sure it gives them a start in life.<br />
The other thing that we did last year,<br />
was give away 6,000 care packages<br />
for people who were struggling<br />
to feed their families. We just<br />
asked people in the communities<br />
to nominate people within their<br />
community that they know are<br />
struggling to feed themselves or<br />
feed their kids. Just to get in touch,<br />
let us know, <strong>and</strong> we just sent a box<br />
out to them.<br />
I wanted to ask you about the<br />
name of your restaurant. Where<br />
does that come from?<br />
“I’ve always worked<br />
with seasons <strong>and</strong>,<br />
it’s just natural for<br />
me to cook”<br />
It was inspired by a region that was<br />
known as M<strong>and</strong>u, but it’s a Sultan of<br />
M<strong>and</strong>u, a guy called Giyath Shahi.<br />
He was an epicure in the late 1300s.<br />
He enjoyed the nicer things in life<br />
<strong>and</strong> there’s a particular manuscript<br />
that he wrote or commissioned,<br />
which concentrated on recipes from<br />
the time <strong>and</strong> his life. And something<br />
that he enjoyed was opium!<br />
So, Opheem ia a play on the word<br />
opium, but it’s more based on<br />
the underst<strong>and</strong>ing, it’s a sensory<br />
indulgence <strong>and</strong> that’s what his life<br />
was built around.<br />
Sensory indulgence, I love that. Do<br />
you ever visit India so you can go<br />
to the places which inspired you?<br />
I used to spend a lot of time in<br />
India. I’d spend a month or so<br />
there every year. At least three<br />
weeks just travelling <strong>and</strong> eating<br />
<strong>and</strong> documenting recipes <strong>and</strong><br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing the culture.<br />
It’s really inspirational - then towards<br />
the end of your trip, you always miss<br />
a roast dinner! There’s nothing like<br />
a Yorkshire pudding. By the end of<br />
it all you want is to come home <strong>and</strong><br />
have a lovely roast dinner.<br />
You can find out more about<br />
Opheem at opheem.com <strong>and</strong> Aktar<br />
at Home at aktarathome.co.uk<br />
10 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Christmas Gift<br />
& Food Fair <strong>2023</strong><br />
Exclusive Shopping Experience - Wednesday 15th <strong>Nov</strong>ember 6.30pm - 9pm<br />
Thursday 16th <strong>Nov</strong>ember 10am - 1pm / 1pm - 4pm<br />
Friday 17th <strong>Nov</strong>ember 9am -10am Exclusive Entry for ‘shoppers with wheels’<br />
10am - 1pm / 1pm - 4pm / 6.30pm - 9pm<br />
Saturday 18th <strong>Nov</strong>ember 10am - 1pm / 1pm - 4pm<br />
www.elycathedral.org
BEAUTIFUL<br />
We sample some delicious recipes from the new<br />
Two Magpies Bakery recipe book, written by the<br />
bakery’s founder, Rebecca Bishop. The book<br />
aims to teach how to make all your favourite<br />
breads, pastries <strong>and</strong> pizzas, as well as recipes for<br />
celebrations cakes, bakes, bars <strong>and</strong> savoury dishes<br />
Baking<br />
BERRY FRIANDS<br />
Fruity little almond cakes<br />
with a dollop of jam in the<br />
centre – a great afternoon<br />
pick-me-up <strong>and</strong> a longst<strong>and</strong>ing<br />
favourite. Choose<br />
seasonal fruit such as<br />
sharp summer berries, juicy<br />
plums or autumnal figs <strong>and</strong><br />
blackberries. This recipe<br />
also works well with glutenfree<br />
flour.<br />
Make the fri<strong>and</strong> mix a<br />
couple of hours ahead (or<br />
even the day before) to<br />
allow the ground almonds<br />
to absorb the liquid egg<br />
white <strong>and</strong> melted butter –<br />
the firm batter will rise more<br />
evenly.<br />
Makes: 10<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
130g unsalted butter<br />
160g caster sugar<br />
80g ground almonds<br />
50g plain (or glutenfree)<br />
flour<br />
130g egg whites<br />
150g seasonal berries (or<br />
stone fruits, figs, rhubarb,<br />
chopped)<br />
100g Raspberry Vanilla Jam<br />
50g apricot jam, sieved<br />
50g pistachios, chopped<br />
METHOD<br />
Brown the butter by bringing<br />
it to the boil in a pan. Allow<br />
it to bubble fiercely for<br />
5–8 minutes, scraping the<br />
bottom of the pan with a<br />
spatula regularly. When the<br />
butter starts to smell sweet<br />
<strong>and</strong> nutty <strong>and</strong> the boiling<br />
foam rises up in the pan,<br />
pour the hot liquid (including<br />
the brown flecks <strong>and</strong><br />
scrapings from the bottom<br />
of the pan) into a heatproof<br />
bowl. Allow the butter to<br />
cool, stirring occasionally as<br />
it firms up.<br />
Weigh the sugar, almonds<br />
<strong>and</strong> flour into a bowl <strong>and</strong><br />
whisk until combined. Still<br />
using the whisk, gradually<br />
add the egg whites, then<br />
the cooled browned<br />
butter in three stages until<br />
absorbed <strong>and</strong> no longer<br />
oily-looking. Cover the<br />
mix <strong>and</strong> leave to rest for a<br />
couple of hours or in the<br />
fridge overnight.<br />
Preheat your oven to<br />
180°C/160°C fan/gas 4.<br />
Grease your mini cake<br />
moulds or muffin tin. Place<br />
half the fruit at the bottom<br />
of the moulds, then pipe<br />
or scoop your fri<strong>and</strong> mix<br />
to come a third of the way<br />
up the sides. Use a small<br />
spoon to place the jam into<br />
the middle of each cake<br />
before topping with a dollop<br />
of the remaining batter.<br />
Your moulds will be about<br />
two-thirds full. Decorate with<br />
more fruit on top.<br />
Bake for 20–25 minutes,<br />
turning the moulds or tin<br />
after 15 minutes. Use a<br />
skewer to check the cakes<br />
– it should come out clean.<br />
Cool for 5 minutes before<br />
removing from the moulds/<br />
tin <strong>and</strong> cooling on a rack.<br />
Warm the sieved apricot<br />
jam <strong>and</strong> brush over the top<br />
of each cake, then sprinkle<br />
with the chopped pistachio<br />
nuts.<br />
Two Magpies Bakery is published by<br />
Headline Home <strong>and</strong> is available from all good<br />
bookshops <strong>and</strong> online<br />
12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
CARDAMOM<br />
Try <strong>and</strong> source black cardamom seeds for<br />
this, grinding them fresh for every bake. The<br />
intense, astringent taste is utterly unique.<br />
Once tasted it will live in your memory <strong>and</strong><br />
keep you returning, again <strong>and</strong> again.<br />
Weigh the flour, icing sugar, cardamom <strong>and</strong><br />
salt into a large bowl <strong>and</strong> mix to combine.<br />
Rub the cubed butter into the flour mix<br />
until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Warm<br />
the milk 30°C, add the yeast <strong>and</strong> stir to<br />
dissolve. Add this liquid to the dry mix <strong>and</strong><br />
bring the dough together using your scraper<br />
until all the dry matter is incorporated.<br />
Allow the dough to rest in the bowl,<br />
covered, for 20 minutes, then turn out onto<br />
the counter <strong>and</strong> knead for 5 minutes until<br />
you have a smooth, elastic dough. Place the<br />
dough back in the bowl, cover <strong>and</strong> prove for<br />
1 hour with stretch <strong>and</strong> folds after 20 <strong>and</strong> 40<br />
minutes. Maintain the dough temperature<br />
at 26°C.<br />
While your dough is proving, make the<br />
cardamom butter by gently combining all<br />
the ingredients in a bowl.<br />
Roll the dough into a rectangle 60cm x<br />
24cm, with the narrowest side next to your<br />
body. Spread with the cardamom butter <strong>and</strong><br />
fold the bottom edge halfway to the centre<br />
of the dough, then fold the top edge of<br />
the dough to fully cover the first half of the<br />
dough (a single/letter fold). The dough will<br />
now measure 20cm x 24cm.<br />
Knots<br />
Wrap the dough in cling film or baking<br />
parchment <strong>and</strong> chill in the freezer for 20<br />
minutes. Remove <strong>and</strong> place the longest side<br />
of the dough parallel to your body. Gently<br />
roll the chilled dough to 30cm high, then<br />
trim the sides. Cut 12 x 2cm wide strips of<br />
dough. Cut each strip into three sections<br />
from the bottom edge, leaving the top edge<br />
still attached so that each strip has three<br />
sections. Prepare your tin by greasing it well<br />
or lining with cases.<br />
Plait the sections <strong>and</strong> roll each plaited strip<br />
so that the ends are tucked underneath<br />
when placed into the muffin tin. Prove for<br />
1–2 hours until puffy <strong>and</strong> increased in size.<br />
Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6.<br />
Brush the buns with egg wash <strong>and</strong> sprinkle<br />
with nibbed sugar (optional), then bake for<br />
12–15 minutes. Brush liberally with syrup as<br />
soon as they are out of the oven, then turn<br />
out of the tin after 10 minutes to prevent the<br />
buns sticking.<br />
Makes: 12<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
Cardamom dough<br />
450g strong white bread flour<br />
80g icing sugar<br />
12g ground cardamom<br />
8g fine sea salt<br />
75g cold unsalted butter, cubed<br />
260g full-fat milk<br />
7g active dried yeast<br />
Cardamom butter<br />
100g soft unsalted butter<br />
80g caster sugar<br />
10g ground cardamom<br />
10g lemon juice<br />
½ tsp fine sea salt<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 13
TIRAMISU<br />
LAYER CAKE<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
Vanilla Genoise Cakes<br />
40g butter, unsalted<br />
3 large eggs room<br />
temperature<br />
75g sugar<br />
65gself raising flour<br />
10g corn flour<br />
100g cocoa powder, sieved<br />
Coffee syrup<br />
3 tsp instant espresso coffee<br />
granules<br />
120ml boiling water (or<br />
130ml strong espresso<br />
coffee)<br />
120g caster sugar<br />
Marsala cream icing<br />
250g mascarpone<br />
130ml double cream<br />
130g icing sugar<br />
45ml Marsala<br />
METHOD<br />
First make the genoise cake: Preheat the oven to<br />
180ºC, line 2 6-inch baking pans (or 1 9-inch) with<br />
parchment paper on the bottom only. Don’t grease<br />
the sides. Set aside. Melt the butter in a sauce pan<br />
or microwave, set aside to cool slightly. Mix the flour<br />
<strong>and</strong> corn flour together in a small bowl <strong>and</strong> sift.<br />
In the bowl of a st<strong>and</strong> mixer or with a h<strong>and</strong> mixer,<br />
beat the eggs <strong>and</strong> sugar on full speed until the<br />
mixture is almost white, triples (at least) in volume<br />
<strong>and</strong> reaches ribbon stage. About 10 to 11 minutes<br />
on high for a st<strong>and</strong> mixer, closer to 15 minutes for<br />
a h<strong>and</strong> mixer <strong>and</strong> 20 minutes or more if whisking<br />
by h<strong>and</strong>.<br />
Add half the flour very gently. Fold in to the egg<br />
mixture, then add half the butter, pouring it around<br />
the edge of the bowl. Fold in. Repeat with the<br />
remaining half of the flour <strong>and</strong> butter. Take care not<br />
to fold out too much air.<br />
Transfer the batter to your baking pan(s) <strong>and</strong> bake<br />
22-25 minutes on the center rack, with the cakes<br />
closer to the oven door. Try not to open the door<br />
for the first half of baking.<br />
They should spring back when gently pressed or<br />
a toothpick comes out clean. Use a sharp knife<br />
to run around the edges of the pan, then turn the<br />
cakes out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.<br />
To assemble the cake: Prepare the coffee syrup<br />
using either coffee granules <strong>and</strong> hot water or hot<br />
espresso coffee. Add the sugar <strong>and</strong> stir to dissolve.<br />
Using a whisk, beat the mascarpone until smooth<br />
<strong>and</strong> thick, then add the cream, icing sugar <strong>and</strong><br />
Marsala. Beat until thick <strong>and</strong> holding soft peaks.<br />
Slice the two genoise cakes in half so you have<br />
four layers. Level the top cake layers <strong>and</strong> place one<br />
on the cake board to use as the base. Brush with<br />
the coffee syrup.<br />
Reserve 200g of the Marsala icing to use on the<br />
top <strong>and</strong> sides of the cake. Spread a third of the<br />
remaining Marsala icing over the bottom layer of<br />
cake, then sieve a generous layer of cocoa powder<br />
over the surface.<br />
Repeat the cake, coffee syrup, Marsala icing <strong>and</strong><br />
cocoa powder layers twice more, then place the<br />
final cake layer on top <strong>and</strong> use the remaining coffee<br />
syrup to brush over the top of the cake.<br />
Smooth half of the reserved icing onto the sides<br />
<strong>and</strong> top of the cake, then pipe ‘kisses’ of Marsala<br />
icing over the cake’s surface. Dredge the whole<br />
cake generously with cocoa powder.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 15
Ensuring Consumer<br />
Safety <strong>and</strong> Compliance:<br />
The Vital Role of<br />
Professional Installers<br />
As the dem<strong>and</strong> for sustainable <strong>and</strong> efficient home<br />
heating solutions continues to rise, the role of<br />
skilled installers becomes increasingly crucial in<br />
safeguarding homeowners.<br />
Highlighting the indispensable value of professional installers in<br />
maintaining safe <strong>and</strong> compliant homes, Alan Young, Compliance<br />
Manager for leading biomass <strong>and</strong> solid fuel heating expert<br />
HETAS, explores the importance of adhering to legislation for the<br />
benefit of both consumers <strong>and</strong> the environment.<br />
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF REGULAR MAINTENANCE<br />
A well-maintained stove or boiler is not only pivotal in ensuring<br />
optimal performance but is a fundamental aspect of homeowner<br />
safety. It’s vital that installers conduct regular maintenance<br />
checks that mitigate potential hazards, such as carbon monoxide<br />
leaks <strong>and</strong> fire hazards. By addressing these issues proactively,<br />
consumers can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that their wood<br />
burning stove or boiler is running efficiently <strong>and</strong> safely. Regular<br />
maintenance such as an annual chimney sweep prolongs the life<br />
of the stove <strong>and</strong> also saves homeowners money in the long run<br />
by reducing the risk of costly breakdowns.<br />
COMPLIANCE WITH LEGISLATION<br />
Compliance with industry regulations <strong>and</strong> st<strong>and</strong>ards guarantees<br />
that the stove or boiler installed meets safety criteria <strong>and</strong><br />
environmental guidelines. Homeowner safety should always be<br />
the top priority; <strong>and</strong> installers play a critical role in upholding this<br />
commitment. By staying up to date with the latest legislations,<br />
installers can guide homeowners towards sustainable <strong>and</strong><br />
environmentally friendly heating choices, contributing to the<br />
global efforts in reducing carbon footprints.<br />
EMPOWERING CONSUMERS WITH KNOWLEDGE<br />
One of the most significant advantages that professional<br />
installers bring to the table is their ability to empower<br />
homeowners with valuable knowledge. From offering insights into<br />
the latest energy-efficient technologies to explaining the benefits<br />
of regular maintenance, installers can help homeowners make<br />
informed decisions about the best suited heating solutions for<br />
their home. Raising awareness fosters trust <strong>and</strong> loyalty <strong>and</strong> also<br />
encourages them to prioritise maintenance <strong>and</strong> compliance with<br />
legislation. Together, consumers <strong>and</strong> installers can form a strong<br />
alliance in driving the adoption of eco-friendly heating solutions<br />
<strong>and</strong> creating a safer environment for all.<br />
For more information about becoming HETAS registered, visit<br />
hetas.co.uk.<br />
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16 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 17
Robin Large Sofa in Basket Weave,<br />
S<strong>and</strong>stone, arlo<strong>and</strong>jacob.com<br />
HOME<br />
for Christmas<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
DINING SPACE - is your table large enough<br />
to host? Consider an extending table, which you can<br />
keep smaller throughout the year until you need to up<br />
the size.<br />
REPAINT - new paint or wallpaper is the fastest,<br />
<strong>and</strong> one of the cheapest, to completely transform the<br />
feel of a space.<br />
NEW SOFA - just be sure to choose one from a<br />
company who can deliver in time for Christmas!<br />
LIVING<br />
&DINING<br />
Broccoli Brown,<br />
Farrow & Ball<br />
Eyebright by<br />
Earthborn Paints<br />
Burano Dining Chair, bridgman.co.uk<br />
Navy Leaved Plant On Taupe A3 Graphic<br />
Print, Oak Frame, £45 cultfurniture.com<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
REFRESH WITH NEW<br />
PRINTS - it’s amazing the life that new<br />
artwork can inject into a space - try to pick<br />
a piece which includes the colours of your<br />
larger furniture pieces, like your sofa.<br />
Istanbul Lamp,<br />
£179, hauslife.<br />
co.uk<br />
NEW CUSHIONS - seasonally<br />
change your cushions, you can keep the<br />
same inners <strong>and</strong> just swap the covers to<br />
refresh the space. Add more cosy fabrics<br />
like velvet, wool <strong>and</strong> corduroy as we come<br />
into the cooler months.<br />
NEW RUG - rugs have big impact<br />
without having to get new flooring.<br />
Clear Waters, Tresco by Ted<br />
Dyer - options from £120<br />
johndyergallery.com<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 19
Annie Sloan Kitchen Paint<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
REPAINT YOUR CABINETS - if your<br />
units are in good condition, this is a great way to<br />
save money <strong>and</strong> stop the upheaval that a kitchen<br />
transformation can bring. We advise you only get a<br />
professional to do this as you need the finish to be<br />
hard-wearing. Similarly, changing the worktops can<br />
have a transformative effect.<br />
LIGHTING- kitchen lighting must be both functional<br />
<strong>and</strong> aesthetically pleasing. How about changing a<br />
pendant light to a spotlight rail for more working light, or<br />
changing the pendants on your breakfast bar. Try adding<br />
a wireless lamp to brighten dark corners.<br />
RESTYLE - change up the accessories you have on<br />
the sides <strong>and</strong> have a big declutter<br />
ARTWORK - hanging some new prints, or propping<br />
some on open shelves can inject personality into a space<br />
<strong>and</strong> make it feel more inviting.<br />
KITCHEN<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
ADD NEW KITCHEN STOOLS - many of us<br />
buy a quick fix with a new kitchen but it’s good to revisit<br />
with fresh eyes.<br />
ADD SOME OPEN SHELVING - it’s a fresh<br />
way to add a bit more storage <strong>and</strong> you can display your<br />
favourite pieces<br />
Olive & Barr Kitchens<br />
Wireless Lamp, £150, oka.com<br />
It might be time to bite the bullet <strong>and</strong> opt for a<br />
new kitchen - many of us are living with poorlydesigned<br />
spaces which don’t st<strong>and</strong> up to<br />
familial needs. If you’re trying to get this ordered<br />
before Christmas, you need to be decisive<br />
about what you need. Consult an expert<br />
kitchen designer - they’ll have ideas to<br />
maximise functionality whilst creating<br />
something beautiful.<br />
Print, ink<strong>and</strong>drop.com<br />
Sylvia Kitchen Stool,<br />
£129, cultfurniture.com<br />
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
eachhouseart.co.uk<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
NEW BATHROOM - It might be time for a new<br />
bathroom. Depending on your fixtures, you may be able<br />
to reuse elements <strong>and</strong> just refresh the tiles. If you are<br />
undergoing larger works, chat through your plans with<br />
your bathroom installer to make sure they address all the<br />
practicalities.<br />
BATHROOM<br />
Rhoper Rhodes<br />
Roddy Wall Light pooky.com<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
CHANGE ACCESSORIES-<br />
Replace your soap dispenser, toothbrush<br />
holder, loo roll holder <strong>and</strong> bin - a little refresh<br />
can make all the difference. The same goes<br />
for fresh, fluffy towels.<br />
REPAINT YOUR WALLS - if you<br />
don’t have full tiles, a fresh lick of paint can<br />
make a space feel cleaner <strong>and</strong> more inviting.<br />
Emerald Plumage Wallpaper,<br />
Divine Savages<br />
Dunelm<br />
REPLACE OLD/MOULDY SILICON -<br />
it’s amazing how much better fresh, clean <strong>and</strong> white<br />
silicon looks.<br />
NEW PRINTS - changing up your bathroom<br />
prints can breathe new life into the space.<br />
H<strong>and</strong> Wash,<br />
£6.99, kit<strong>and</strong>kin.<br />
com; Tray, £35,<br />
boxwoodhomeinteriors.<br />
co.uk<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21
GUEST<br />
BEDROOM<br />
OVERHAUL<br />
REDECORATE - updating the room <strong>and</strong><br />
adding elements of interest like panelling can be<br />
transformative.<br />
NEW BED - lots of us have guest rooms<br />
with beds that have been retired from service<br />
somewhere else in the house. Making sure the<br />
bed is comfortable <strong>and</strong> inviting, plus aesthetically<br />
pleasing gives an instant update - after all, it is the<br />
biggest thing in the room.<br />
SOFA BED - for many of us, our guest room<br />
is now our home office, so it might make more<br />
sense to have a sofa bed that can act as a break<br />
out space when you’re working <strong>and</strong> save space<br />
when not in use.<br />
Ca’ Pietra Proper Good Paint<br />
Pair of Ophelia Droplet Mirrors, £260, frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk<br />
QUICK FIXES<br />
NEW LIGHTING - some new table lamps can<br />
refresh the space, or you can get wall lights with plugs<br />
to save space on the bedside tables.<br />
NEW BEDDING - new bedding really refreshes<br />
a space. Think about providing enough pillows <strong>and</strong> lots<br />
of layers like blankets <strong>and</strong> quilts - it makes a space feel<br />
inviting.<br />
ADD ACCESSORIES - decorative elements<br />
breathe life into a space - too often, guest rooms look<br />
forgotten about. Pair it right back, get rid of the clutter<br />
<strong>and</strong> add things like a reed diffuser, cushions on the bed,<br />
a mirror <strong>and</strong> a vase of flowers or a house plant.<br />
The perfect sofa bed for smaller spaces -<br />
Swyft Model 08 Sofa Bed swyfthome.com<br />
French Bedroom Company<br />
MAKE IT INVITING - adding things like fluffy<br />
towels, a nice cotton robe to wear or a basket with<br />
essentials like toothpaste,<br />
Demira Tassel Cushion, from £36,<br />
<strong>and</strong> Nia Tassel Throw, £65, both<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
22 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Planting for Autumn colour<br />
NOTES FROM<br />
THE GARDEN<br />
As the full light of summer fades into<br />
Autumn so the colour palette of our gardens,<br />
changes <strong>and</strong> for me, Autumn is one of the<br />
most beautiful seasons in the garden.<br />
If you are starting from scratch <strong>and</strong> planning for colour, lucky you,<br />
then there are so many options, but the addition of some or any of<br />
the following will reward you as the summer wanes. Backlit plants<br />
can look amazing as the sun comes <strong>and</strong> goes <strong>and</strong> immediately, we<br />
think of Acers, that blaze of fire that creates so many spectacular<br />
exclamation points at this time of the year. Size certainly matters<br />
so check the height <strong>and</strong> spread that each plant will reach <strong>and</strong> then<br />
a little research will find you the ideal choice. If your soil type isn’t<br />
ideal – they are acid loving plants, then grow them in pots. A two- or<br />
three-year-old Acer in a beautiful pot can look spectacular <strong>and</strong> you<br />
can move it to the most advantageous spot to enjoy its autumn show.<br />
Trees are an obvious choice for colour <strong>and</strong> Amelanchier lamarkii or<br />
‘Snowy Mespilus’ is another beauty – it grows to about 7 metres so<br />
place it carefully, but it offers a lot- silvery leaves followed by snowy<br />
white flowers <strong>and</strong> pale copper leaves in spring. Berries follow that<br />
<strong>and</strong> then in autumn a stunning display of orange <strong>and</strong> red leaves –<br />
what more could you ask for? Shrubs also play a part – the wonderful<br />
‘Smoke Bush’, Cotinus ‘Grace’ has deep maroon leaves <strong>and</strong> a halo<br />
of fluffy grey toned flowers which look like the smoke of an autumn<br />
bonfire. Hydrangea quercifolia – the ‘Oak Leaved Hydrangea’ is<br />
“PALE AMBER SUNLIGHT FALLS ACROSS<br />
THE REDDENING OCTOBER TREES,<br />
THAT HARDLY SWAY BEFORE A BREEZE<br />
AS SOFT AS SUMMER: SUMMER’S LOSS<br />
SEEMS LITTLE, DEAR! ON DAYS LIKE THESE.”<br />
ERNEST DOWSON<br />
another treasure offering incredible leaf colour, <strong>and</strong> white flowers too.<br />
Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’, turning yellow in autumn, looks<br />
fabulous …… I am spoilt for choice!<br />
Smaller plants also offer great colour, from N<strong>and</strong>ina domestica ‘Fire<br />
Power’ to Asters, Helianthus, Japanese Anemone, Cyclamen – <strong>and</strong><br />
let’s not forget the grasses. Miscanthus <strong>and</strong> Pennisetum or fountain<br />
grass add a totally different texture to the garden <strong>and</strong> as autumn<br />
winds increase also add a wonderful fluid movement too.<br />
Maybe it’s time for a<br />
kitchen<br />
that makes you<br />
Smile?<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 25
Email: enquiries@tradelinkinstallations.co.uk<br />
Website: www.tradelinkinstallations.co.uk
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT<br />
FROM A GOOD CARE HOME?<br />
Finding out what a good care<br />
home looks like can help you to<br />
make choices about your care.<br />
It can also help you underst<strong>and</strong><br />
what you should be able to expect<br />
from a service you already use.<br />
When we inspect care homes, there are<br />
five questions we ask.<br />
Is it safe?<br />
Is it effective?<br />
Is it caring?<br />
Is it responsive to people’s needs?<br />
Is it well-led?<br />
In a good care home, you can expect<br />
to be safe because…<br />
The home <strong>and</strong> any equipment are well<br />
maintained <strong>and</strong> managers look for ways to<br />
improve safety. You should feel confident<br />
that your belongings are safe <strong>and</strong> secure.<br />
There are always enough staff on duty with<br />
the skills needed to make sure you are safe.<br />
You are protected from being bullied,<br />
harassed, harmed or abused. Abuse<br />
includes neglect <strong>and</strong> financial abuse.<br />
Staff deal with incidents <strong>and</strong> accidents<br />
quickly <strong>and</strong> openly (<strong>and</strong> investigate them if<br />
necessary) <strong>and</strong> they learn from mistakes.<br />
You feel safe <strong>and</strong> protected by staff,<br />
but you also have as much freedom as<br />
possible to do the things you want to do –<br />
regardless of your disability or other needs.<br />
Staff give you your medicine safely <strong>and</strong><br />
store it correctly. Where possible, the<br />
home involves you in reviewing your<br />
medicines <strong>and</strong> supports you to be as<br />
independent as possible.<br />
The home is kept clean <strong>and</strong> hygienic to<br />
prevent any risk of infection to you or<br />
other residents.<br />
You can expect a good care home to<br />
be effective because…<br />
You are regularly asked for your views<br />
about the quality <strong>and</strong> choice of the food<br />
<strong>and</strong> other aspects of the home, <strong>and</strong> your<br />
feedback is consistently good.<br />
Staff make sure you get the right food<br />
<strong>and</strong> drink you need, <strong>and</strong> that you have<br />
enough of it.<br />
Staff have the right knowledge,<br />
qualifications <strong>and</strong> skills to carry out their<br />
role so that you have a good quality of life.<br />
You are always asked to give your<br />
consent (permission) to your care,<br />
treatment <strong>and</strong> support in a way you can<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>. Where appropriate, your<br />
family <strong>and</strong> friends are also involved in<br />
decisions about your care.<br />
Staff know about your health needs <strong>and</strong><br />
personal preferences <strong>and</strong> give you as<br />
much choice <strong>and</strong> control as possible.<br />
Staff speak with health <strong>and</strong> social care<br />
professionals, such as GPs, <strong>and</strong> take the<br />
right action at the right time to keep you<br />
in good health.<br />
You are asked for your likes <strong>and</strong> needs<br />
when the home is adapted or decorated.<br />
Any changes to the home are made to<br />
help you to be as independent as possible.<br />
You can expect a good care home to be<br />
caring because…<br />
Staff know about your background, likes,<br />
hopes <strong>and</strong> needs. This includes any needs<br />
you have because of your age, disability,<br />
sex (gender), gender identity, race, religion<br />
or belief, or sexuality (whether you are<br />
lesbian, gay, bisexual or heterosexual).<br />
You are encouraged to express your views,<br />
no matter how complex your needs are.<br />
You have access to advocates (people<br />
who can speak on your behalf).<br />
Staff also know your wishes for your care<br />
at the end of your life, if this applies.<br />
Staff treat you with dignity <strong>and</strong> respect.<br />
They spend time with you, develop<br />
trusting relationships <strong>and</strong> are concerned<br />
for your wellbeing.<br />
You have enough privacy.<br />
Your family <strong>and</strong> friends can visit you.<br />
You can expect a good care home to be<br />
responsive to your needs because…<br />
Your care, treatment <strong>and</strong> support are set<br />
out in a written plan that describes what<br />
staff need to do to make sure that you<br />
receive personalised care.<br />
You, <strong>and</strong> your family <strong>and</strong> friends where<br />
appropriate, are actively involved in<br />
developing this plan. For example, you<br />
should be able to have a choice about<br />
who provides you with personal care,<br />
such as help with washing <strong>and</strong> dressing.<br />
As your needs <strong>and</strong> preferences change,<br />
your plan is changed, <strong>and</strong> all those who<br />
need to know, such as your care staff, are<br />
kept up to date.<br />
The plan includes information about<br />
the whole of your life, including your<br />
goals, your abilities <strong>and</strong> how you want to<br />
manage your health. You may also have a<br />
health action plan.<br />
Staff work hard to prevent you from<br />
feeling lonely. They do this by helping you<br />
to keep in contact with your family <strong>and</strong><br />
friends.<br />
Staff also help you keep up your hobbies<br />
<strong>and</strong> get involved in the community if you<br />
want to.<br />
If you need to visit hospital, staff plan<br />
this well with you to make sure it goes as<br />
smoothly as possible.<br />
If you have any concerns <strong>and</strong> complaints,<br />
staff always take them seriously,<br />
investigate them thoroughly <strong>and</strong> respond<br />
to them in good time.<br />
You can expect a good care home to<br />
be well-led because…<br />
You know who the manager is, <strong>and</strong><br />
anyone else in charge.<br />
Managers know what their responsibilities<br />
are <strong>and</strong> are always honest, including<br />
when things go wrong.<br />
Staff know what is expected of them <strong>and</strong><br />
are happy in their work.<br />
Managers are available to support their<br />
staff.<br />
Staff have the confidence to report<br />
concerns about the care that colleagues,<br />
carers <strong>and</strong> other professionals give.<br />
When this happens they are supported<br />
<strong>and</strong> their concerns are thoroughly<br />
investigated.<br />
28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Quality care in<br />
<strong>Newmarket</strong> you<br />
can trust<br />
When a family is thinking about care<br />
for a loved one, they want the best -<br />
they want to know that the care home<br />
they choose will put their loved one’s<br />
safety, happiness <strong>and</strong> wellbeing first.<br />
Kentford Manor is managed by award-winning provider Care UK<br />
- one of the UK’s most highly successful care home operators*<br />
with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to<br />
older people.<br />
<strong>Living</strong> at Kentford Manor is all about quality of life. Every<br />
colleague in the home is passionate about enabling residents to<br />
enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs <strong>and</strong><br />
preferences. The lifestyle team organises a huge variety of group<br />
<strong>and</strong> one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day.<br />
With the extra support that our care home offers, new residents<br />
are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able<br />
to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or even<br />
discovering new hobbies with our daily activities.<br />
<strong>and</strong> beauty salon, <strong>and</strong> comfortable lounges <strong>and</strong> dining rooms.<br />
The home also boasts stunning gardens with wheelchair friendly<br />
pathways – the perfect place to spend some time when the<br />
weather allows.<br />
JOIN OUR UPCOMING EVENT<br />
Forget me not café<br />
Last Thursday of every month, 10am - 12 noon<br />
Join us at our Forget me not café for freshly brewed coffee/tea<br />
<strong>and</strong> delicious homemade cakes, prepared by our Head Chef.<br />
Kentford Manor care home<br />
Jeddah Way, Kennett, <strong>Newmarket</strong> CB8 8JY<br />
01638 438 273<br />
careuk.com/kentford-manor<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
The purpose-built home is designed for enjoying a luxury lifestyle, *As rated by the Care Quality Commission in Engl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> the Care<br />
with en-suite 20220816 rooms <strong>and</strong> Kingfisher facilities Advert including HiRes.pdf a cinema, bistro, 1 06/09/2022 hair Inspectorate 21:07in Scotl<strong>and</strong>.<br />
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Expert<br />
dementia<br />
care<br />
Guided by the latest academic<br />
evidence, our dementia specialists<br />
support each resident to live every<br />
day to the full.<br />
If you’re considering a care home,<br />
call 01638 779 573 or visit<br />
careuk.com/kentford-manor<br />
Trusted to care<br />
Kentford Manor care home<br />
<strong>Newmarket</strong>
A FANTASTIC<br />
RANGE OF<br />
DESIGNS FROM<br />
CONTEMPORARY<br />
TO CLASSIC<br />
A WORLD OF CHOICE AT REEDS<br />
UNBEATABLE PRICES FROM A FAMILY BUSINESS YOU CAN TRUST!<br />
SOFAS | CHAIRS | FURNITURE | BEDS | MATTRESSES | FLOORING | CURTAINS | BLINDS AND MORE!<br />
Opening Times: Mon – Sat 9am to 5pm in Downham <strong>and</strong> <strong>Ely</strong> | Sunday 10am to 4pm in <strong>Ely</strong> only<br />
Visit the café in our Downham Market Store where delicious food <strong>and</strong> drink awaits you.<br />
Check out our website reedshomestore.co.uk | Find us on facebook for the latest updates<br />
REEDS Furniture, Flooring, Bed Centre & Homestore, Bridge Street, Downham Market PE38 9DS T: 01366 382213<br />
REEDS Furniture, Flooring & Bed Centre, Lancaster Way Business Park, <strong>Ely</strong> CB6 3NX T: 01353 669754