Wokingham and Bracknell Lifestyle Apr - May 2024

Is it worth 

paying attention 

to ISA season? 

Don’t 

forget 

Have you ever heard the term ‘ISA season’ 

bandied about and not understood what it 

meant? If so, you’re not alone! 

If you’ve never had an ISA or you’re new to 

saving, you might not be familiar with ISA season 

or how it could impact your savings. 

What is ISA season? 

ISA, which stands for Individual Savings Account, 

are accounts that allow savers to deposit up to 

£20,000 (a limit which is set by the government 

each year) without paying any tax on the 

interest earned. This is Money recently reported 

that over 4 million savers are at risk of having to 

pay tax on their savings interest (an increase of a 

million in six months), so an ISA is an increasingly 

attractive option. 

ISA season traditionally takes place from late 

February to through to the end of the financial 

year in April, and encourages savers to use any 

remaining ISA allowance they might have before 

they lose it on 6 April. ISA allowances do not 

roll over to the following year, so any unused 

allowance is lost permanently. 

How could ISA season impact you? 

In contrast to other types of savings accounts, 

ISAs provide savers with a zero-tax guarantee. 

If you were to keep your savings in a non- 

ISA account, any interest you earned would 

contribute towards your personal savings 

allowance (PSA). Your personal savings allowance 

is £1,000 a year, or £500 if you’re a higher-rate 

tax payer. 

So, if you have savings sat in an account that 

you’re close to paying interest on, or you’re in a 

position to move some funds about, putting them 

into an ISA before the end of the financial year 

could be a savvy move. 

If you’re organised enough to open a new ISA 

account at the very beginning of the new tax 

year (6 April) each year, you’ll benefit from a full 

365 days of tax-free savings! 

Want to find out more about our ISAs? 

If you’d like to discuss your situation, you can 

book a review with a Qualified Savings Adviser, 

who will be able to recommend a product to fit 

your unique circumstances. You can also visit 

one of our ten local branches, or call us on 01635 

555700. Appointments can be undertaken in 

branch, in person, by video or by telephone. 

Wokingham branch: 19 Broad 

Street, Wokingham, RG40 1AU. 

Call: 0118 978 5945 

Email: wokingham@newbury.co.uk 

Justine Ransom, Wokingham Branch Manager. 

Newbury Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated 

by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial 

Services Register number 206077). English Law applies and we will communicate with you 

in English. We are participants of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We have a complaints 

procedure which we will provide on request. Most complaints that we cannot resolve can be 

referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service. A062 

Newbury 

Building Society

C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

18 21 

JACK COSY STEIN & CALM INTERVIEW LIVING SPACES & RECIPE 

Welcome to the April/May 

edition - a celebration of 

I had my first English 

spring and early summer, 

strawberry this week, and my 

word, 

where 

it was 

we’re 

beyond 

shaking 

delicious 

off 

- 

the 

perfectly 

winter 

sweet, 

blues 

it 

with 

was 

a 

very 

hearty 

good 

dose 

advert 

of 

for 

vitaminpacked 

kale I’ve recipes, tried to a living echo 

eating 

seasonally. 

this room in all transformation my recent fruit that’ll and 

vegetable make you purchases, want to grab and it’s a 

had paintbrush, a transformative and effect enough on 

my spring cooking garden - everything content just 

tastes to make better even - more the vibrant, most 

needing reluctant less green seasoning thumb reach and 

just for the overall trowel. very tasty. 

INTERIOR HEALTHY RECIPES UPDATES 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

22 14 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Helen Skeates 

e helen.skeates@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984494 

Front Cover courtesy of Discover Great Veg 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

24 27 

PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS 

JULIA KENDELL 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be 

held liable for any loss occasioned by 

failure of an advertisement to appear, or 

any damage or inconvenience caused by 

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of 

this publication may be reproduced without 

prior permission from the publishers. 

The opinions expressed within are not 

necessarily those of the publishers. 

I’m Feeling making a bit the wilted most after of 

cooking winter? Fear whilst not! I still We’ve have got a 

kitchen recipes that’ll - mine have is due you to kaleing 

it in out the in two kitchen weeks like and a 

be 

ripped 

it pro. will From be camping one-pan-heroes stove and 

air to frying comforting two pasta, months these from 

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about in no time. all the other areas that 

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because we’ve got a living 

We’ve room transformation also got some lovely that’ll 

editorial make you on want the to best dust off plants the 

for DIY pollinators gear and get - it’s cracking. never 

been 

We even 

so important 

caught up 

to 

with 

support 

DIY 

wildlife 

SOS designer 

in the garden. 

Julia Kendell 

to talk all things kitchen! 

The competition guide this 

issue is a bumper one - we 

And for those of you who 

have an outdoor furniture 

prefer to get your hands dirty 

set from Bramblecrest worth 

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that garden in shape. This, 

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But hey, 

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just 

enter! 

the 

beginning! Our Spring 

We 

edition 

will 

is 

be 

bursting 

back 

with 

again 

more 

in 

August 

insights, 

- 

and 

I’ll be 

articles 

fully rebooted 

to keep 

and you recharged entertained into until summer we 

mode. reconvene See in you June. then! So grab a 

cuppa, put your feet up, and 

let’s spring into action! 

Katie 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Time 

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4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

y Warfield Park 

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6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

CIF_Wisley_Spring24_110x153_v4.indd 1 28/02/2024 09:09

We are an independent, friendly and professional Wokingham based salon, providing 

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Credentials: MSc (Aesthetic Med), BSc Nursing, Pg. Dip, RGN, INP.

PASTORAL CARE 

in schools 

Children’s mental health has hit 

a worrying low, according to a 

raft of research from charities 

and professional bodies. From 

anxieties caused by exam 

stress and social media to the 

devastating toll of the pandemic, 

the picture has never been starker. 

MENTAL HEALTH 

SUPPORT IN SCHOOLS 

Schools have a key part to play both 

in terms of prevention and picking 

up the pieces when things escalate, 

but the picture here isn’t great either. 

‘Provision in schools is patchy and 

fragmented – having a counsellor isn’t 

even mandatory in schools,’ says 

David Stephenson, senior policy and 

campaigns officer at the charity Mind. 

Good news is that Ofsted and ISI 

now assess personal development, 

which includes mental health in 

schools. Areas such as resilience, 

confidence, independence, and 

how to keep mentally healthy are all 

covered. As part of pastoral care in 

schools, all schools have to provide 

a mental health and relationships 

curriculum, and the government has 

committed to a £1,200 training grant 

for each school to ensure a whole 

school approach, albeit by 2025. 

AWARENESS TRAINING 

FOR TEACHERS 

A positive step towards good mental 

health in children is the growth in 

training staff in mental health first aid. 

At Lord Wandsworth College, a co-ed 

day and boarding senior school in 

Hampshire, this goes for all staff. ‘It 

means they know what to look out for 

and what to do when a pupil comes 

to them – in some cases that will be 

a listening ear and reassurance, other 

times support or signposting,’ says 

headteacher Adam Williams, who 

adds that staff wellbeing in schools is 

also a priority for them. 

PEER SUPPORT 

The school has a peer mentoring 

programme whereby young people 

are trained to support one another 

and break down the stigma often 

associated by mental health. 

‘Sometimes you feel safer and more 


comfortable talking to someone 

nearer your age – and they are just 

more likely to understand,’ said a 

pupil on our recent visit. The school 

also involves parents, running talks 

and giving practical advice on how 

to support teenagers. 

WELLBEING HUBS 

A dedicated wellbeing hub is one 

way to address mental health issues 

in children. At Malvern St James, an 

all-through girls’ day and boarding 

school, The Hive is described by Zinnia 

Wilkinson, director of pastoral care, 

as ‘a comfortable, welcoming space 

where pupils can just be but also see 

a counsellor for a 30-minute session 

just for one or two weeks because 

sometimes that’s all they need.’ 

MENTAL HEALTH VS 

GRADES 

Wilkinson points out that parents 

often perceive a school to be good 

pastorally or academically, but not 

both. ‘In fact if a school is pastorally 

strong, it’s in the best position to 

thrive academically,’ she says. 

Sophie Blunt, housemistress 

at Wycombe Abbey, a day and 

boarding senior school for girls, 

agrees. Outstanding pastoral care 

might not be the first thing you 

think of at one of the top academic 

schools for girls, and yet many of 

the parents we spoke to whose 

daughters had needed intervention 

were full of praise for how the school 

had responded. ‘Wellbeing education 

is at the heart of our curriculum – it’s 

on timetable for every girl,’ she says. 

For Dean Taylor, associate headteacher 

at Seven Kings School, a co-ed state 

school for 4-18 in east London, it’s the 

relationship between staff and pupils 

that holds the key to positive mental 

health in schools. ‘The ethos is more 

important than anything and you can 

walk around this school and see that it’s 

inclusive, friendly, safe and with clear 

and consistent boundaries,’ he says. 

The school pays particular attention to 

pressure points such as exam time and 

makes sure every child has a trusted 

adult. There’s a joined-up approach 

with the SENCO too, in the knowledge 

that youngsters with conditions such as 

ADHD and autism can be particularly 

at risk of mental health problems. ‘The 

most vulnerable pupils have a onepage 

profile that’s shared with all staff,’ 

he adds. 

DISCIPLINE 

Nearly half of young people are 

disciplined at school for behaviour 

related to their mental health, according 

to Mind’s latest research. One in four 

school staff were aware of a student 

being excluded from school because of 

their mental health. Seven Kings avoids 

this by never taking behaviour at face 

value. ‘It’s about conversations and 

getting pupils to reflect if they’ve broken 

rules. Were you in the right place at the 

right time with the right people, and if 

not what can we do to fix that? Who 

was affected? And what could you do 

next time? These repetitive questions 

from all staff help them self-regulate,’ 

says Taylor. 

The full article is available to read 

online - Article from The Good 

Schools Guide - an excellent resource 

for parents. goodschoolsguide.co.uk

TM 

ROMEO 

JULIET 

21 JUNE - 13 JULY 

Staged across Guildford Town Centre 

GSC’s professional cast joined by a 

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guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk 

Principal sponsors 

GSC Buildings supported by 

Energising 

a new generation. 

Nursery - Year 11 

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FOR AGES 

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NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME 

Beautiful local gardens to visit this spring - plus raising vital funds for nursing 

and health charities. For more details, visit ngs.org.uk 

S T U B B I N G S H O U S E 

Stubbings Lane, Henley Road, 

Maidenhead SL6 6QL 

W O O D P E C K E R S 

Poplar Grove, Woking GU22 7SD 

A journey through a horticultural 

designer’s own garden, where plants 

take centre stage in succession, 

providing year-round colour and interest. 

Three rooms, each with a different 

planting style and purpose: vibrant 

colours in the jewel's amphitheatre, leafy 

textures and pastels in the social room, 

glasshouse and grow your own 

productive area. 

Sunday 5th and 19th May 

Admission: Adult: £5.00 | Child: Free 

T I M B E R H I L L 

Chertsey Road, Chobham, Surrey 

GU24 8JF 

Welcome to 16 acres of informal 

garden, park, and woodland; enticing 

views to Surrey Hills from the hill. 

Enjoy winter and spring walks, 

through witch-hazel and winter 

honeysuckle, crocus and snowdrops, 

daffodils/narcissi, gorgeous bluebells 

and azaleas and fleeting cherry 

blossom. Stunning camellias in Feb, 

March, April. 

Sunday 7th April, Mondays from 

March 11th Admission: Adult: £7.00 

Child: £1.00 


Parkland garden accessed via adjacent 

retail park centre and café. Large lawn 

and woodland walks. Featuring notable 

trees including historic cedars and 

araucaria. March brings an abundance 

of daffodils and in May a 60-metre wall 

of wisteria. 

Saturdays & Sundays from 16th March 


T H E G R A N G E 

The Street, Waltham St. Lawrence, 

Reading RG10 0JJ 

An atmospheric garden of almost 2 

acres. A parterre blends seamlessly 

towards a natural swimming pond, with a 

vegetable garden and orchard beyond. 

Features include spring bulbs, borders 

with herbaceous perennials, grasses 

and gravel planting and a new stumpery. 

Sunday 7th April 


O L D T H A T C H & T H E 

M I L L E N N I U M B A R N 

Sprats Hatch Lane, Winchfield, Hook, 

Hampshire RG27 8DD 

A 5-acre garden and woodland 

alongside the Basingstoke Canal. A 

succession of spring bulbs, a profusion 

of wildflowers, perennials and 

homegrown annuals pollinated by our 

own bees and fertilised by the donkeys, 

who await your visit. Children can enjoy 

our garden quiz. 

Sunday 14th April, Sunday 9th June 


T Y L N E Y H A L L H O T E L 

Ridge Lane, Rotherwick, Hampshire 

RG27 9AZ 

Large garden of 66 acres with 

extensive woodlands and beautiful 

vista. Fine avenues of wellingtonias; 

rhododendrons and azaleas, Italian 

garden, lakes, large water and a rock 

garden. 

Sunday 12th May, Sunday 9th June 

Admission: Adult: £5.00 | Child: Free

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Kale-ing It 

A new survey has found that three quarters of 

Brits are unaware of where to get the vitamin 

folate. The survey by Discover Great Veg has 

found that despite folate’s importance to our 

wellbeing, 75% of Brits don’t know folate is 

found naturally in food, and 1 in 5 think it’s only 

pregnant women who need to consume it. 

But folate matters to us all - from anaemia to 

cardiovascular disease and even mental health, 

not eating enough folate (otherwise known 

as Vitamin B9) can lead to a range of health 

problems. Despite more than 8 in 10 people 

believing it is difficult to get folate in their diet, it is 

found naturally in a wide range of everyday foods 

including green leafy veg like kale and spinach, 

chickpeas and kidney beans, as well as liver. 

To help educate consumers to get more folate 

into their diet, Discover Great Veg has now 

partnered with nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche, to 

raise awareness about the importance of folate 

for every age group. 

KALE PASTA 

SAUCE 

Serves 4 Prep time: 10 minutes 

Cook time: 10 minutes 

INGREDIENTS 

500g pasta 

1 tbsp olive oil 

280g kale 

3 cloves of garlic, chopped 

3 tbsp. water 

90g grated parmesan 

240ml vegetable stock 

180g cream cheese 

METHOD 

Cook the pasta according to packet 

instructions. Meanwhile, in a medium 

saucepan heat the oil over a medium heat. 

Add the kale and garlic and fry for about 1-2 

minutes, until the leaves start to wilt a little 

then add the water and keep stirring for a 

further couple of minutes. 

Transfer the kale and garlic to a food processor 

and blend for a few minutes then add the 

grated parmesan, vegetable stock and cream 

cheese. Blend at full speed until you have a 

bright green and creamy texture. Stir this in to 

your cooked pasta then warm through gently 

before serving. 

30% OF 

R D A 

FOLATE 

P E R 

PORTION 


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LEMONY 

CHICKEN 

TRAY BAKE 

Serves 4 Prep time: 10 minutes 


INGREDIENTS 

1 large leek, sliced 

300g miniature/baby potatoes, 

boiled then halved 

4 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly 

smashed 

2 tbsp olive oil, divided into 1⅓ 

tbsp and ⅔ tbsp (2tsp) 

8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs 

1 tsp sweet smoked paprika 

2 tsp lemon zest 

Juice of 1 lemon 

One small pack of fresh thyme 

350g kale 

METHOD 

Preheat the oven to 210°C (fan) 

230°C (standard). 

Toss the leek slices, potatoes, and 

garlic in 1+⅓ tbsp olive oil in a large 

bowl. Season to taste. 

Spread out on 1-2 baking trays. 

Add the chicken thighs to the same 

bowl and toss with the paprika, 

lemon zest and lemon juice. Season 

to taste. 

Place the coated chicken portion on 

top of the vegetables, each with a 

30% OF 

R D A 

FOLATE 

P E R 

PORTION 

sprig of thyme on top. 

Bake for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, 

toss the kale in the remaining 2/3 

tbsp i.e. 2 tsp olive oil. Stir to coat 

each piece well then add to the 

baking tray/s giving everything a 

good stir in the process. 

Bake for a further 15 minutes, 

stirring once. Check that the 

chicken juices run clear and if you 

have a meat thermometer that the 

internal temperature at the thickest 

part is at least 74°C. 

40% OF 

R D A 

FOLATE 

P E R 

PORTION 

SPINACH AND 

KALE MINI 

QUICHES 

Makes 8 Prep time: 10 minutes 


INGREDIENTS 

90g spinach 

90g kale 

3 tbsp water 

6 large eggs 

180g fresh pesto 

Ground black pepper 

A little olive oil for greasing 

METHOD 

Preheat your oven to 190°C. Heat 

a medium saucepan over medium 

heat and add the spinach, kale and 

water. Cook for a few minutes until 

the leaves have wilted and reduced. 

Leave to cool. Pop these leaves 

into your food processor and blend 

on medium speed. 

Meanwhile, beat the eggs with the 

pesto and pepper then add to the 

cooled leaves in the food processor 

before blending on top speed. 

Grease the 8 holes of your muffin tin 

with a little oil or use cases to avoid 

sticking. Fill each of the 8 greased 

muffin holes with equal amounts of 

the eggy mixture. Put the tray in the 

oven and cook for 20-25 minutes 

or until a cocktail stick inserted into 

the quiches comes out clean. Serve 

warm or cold. 


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A BRITISH GARDEN CENTRES GUIDE 

The best summer bulbs to plant now 

During the warm summer months, gardens in full bloom are a sight to behold. If you’re looking 

to add vibrant colours to your outdoor space, planting summer bulbs that will come back year 

after year is a great option. Whether you prefer bold and bright blooms or delicate and fragrant 

flowers, there’s a summer bulb out there for you. The team at British Garden Centres has listed 

its top summer bulbs for planting now. 

AGAPANTHUS 

Agapanthus, which is also known as the African Lily, is a plant that 

is widely admired for its stunning appearance. It produces attractive 

clusters of dark blue, star-shaped flowers that are beautifully 

displayed on tall and upright stalks. 

CROCOSMIA 

Crocosmia is a stunning addition to any garden, boasting vibrant 

orange flowers that create a captivating display throughout the 

summer. With its long flowering period, it brings enduring colour to 

late summer gardens. 

DAHLIAS 

Dahlias are a beloved selection for summer gardens worldwide, as 

they boast an array of exquisite blooms that come in an extensive 

variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. These perennial flowering plants 

belong to the Asteraceae family and are known for their ability to thrive 

in full sunlight and well-drained soil, making them an excellent option 

for gardeners looking for a versatile and low-maintenance plant. 

GLADIOLI 

Gladioli are a great choice for those who want to add a touch of 

grandeur to their summer garden. These bulbs are popular for their 

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SBIWT244.indd 1 27/07/2022 11:26

With many of us opting to improve instead of move, it’s 

never been more important to make our spaces work better 

for us. After extending a kitchen to the side of their house, 

homeowners Kate and Tom needed to reconfigure the existing 

kitchen and separate dining room into a space that reflected 

the flow of their lives. Opting to open the rooms completely, we 

caught up with them to discuss the process. 

Photography by Lucy Hartley-Saunders 


In terms of the build, can you tell us 

what you’ve done? 

The living area occupies what was once 

the dining room, and the dining room was 

the teeny tiny kitchen. We prioritised a 

larger living space over a big dining area - 

I think many of us have moved away from 

the formal dining space, instead opting 

to have something move convivial. We 

have a large breakfast bar in the kitchen, 

which is in the new extension, so there are 

options for dining, and it made sense to 

just keep the space flowing. 

What flooring was here before and why 

have you chosen the finish you have? 

This space has been transformed by the 

flooring, which was an easy-to-lay, fully 

DIY process. The flooring runs from the 

kitchen all the way through to the living 

area. It had to be something that would 

work with the underfloor heating, be able 

to stand up to the demands of kitchen 

life, be easy to clean with two dogs in the 

house and still give the space a feeling of 

warmth. I wanted to find a clean-looking 

tone which didn’t read too grey or too 

yellow, so settled on Canadian Nude 

Oak from Karndean - it’s a rigid-core 

product, so doesn’t need gluing down 

and just clicks together using the tongue 

and groove system. It can be laid over an 

existing floor too. 

That stove is amazing - why did you 

choose it? 

The existing fireplace had a small opening 

in it, and it looked like it would lend itself 

well to an inset stove. I’m not over-stating it 

when I say this stove is one of my favourite 

things I’ve ever had in my home. It offers 

instant cosiness, and such a beautiful focal 

point whether it’s roaring or gently glowing. 

That sofa looks incredibly 

comfortable… 

Oh, my, goodness! It is the most 

comfortable sofa I’ve ever sat on - it’s the 

Chaise Otto from sofa.com. My partner and 

“We prioritised a larger 

living space over a big 

dining area - we wanted 

to have something move 

convivial.” 

Armchair from hauslife.co.uk 

I saw it in our local showroom 

and sat on it for nearly half an 

hour! We didn’t want to move, 

and it immediately transported 

us to lazy Sundays in front of the 

fire, stretched out on the chaise. 

It has feather-wrapped cushions 

which make it dreamily squishy, 

and the covers are removable for 

washing, which is essential with 

my penchant for beige alongside 

having two dogs…it also means 

we can update the look of it in a 

few years without replacing the 

whole sofa. 

Are there any other design 

elements you love? 

We’ve zoned this space with this 

huge rug from Ruggable - it’s 

actually machine washable so 

can stand up to daily life, spills, 

muddy dog paws and more! Then 

we have the amazing Lithe Audio 

ceiling speakers - one above 

the dining table and the other 

in the adjoining kitchen space, 

connected to one another. It’s 

lovely to be able to have music on 

whilst cooking, and then keep the 

ambient sounds on during dinner. 

They look really sleek and the 

sound quality is amazing. 

Is there anything you’d 

change? 

I really love this space. It feels 

welcoming and cosy, and that 

was always the goal. It’s not a 

formal seating area, but a place 

to retreat from daily life, where 

you can really just spill out and 

chill. It’s versatile enough to cater 

for our needs as they shift. 


▶ ▶ 

This is actually an extendable 

table - so it can be round to 

seat four people, then has 

leaves to take it all the way 

to a 12 seater. It’s only the 

two of us, so we didn’t want 

a massive table that spent 

most of the year getting in the 

way, only to be used at full 

capacity at Christmas. So, this 

arrangement really suits us. I 

wanted the chairs to be sleek 

and sit below the top line of the 

table, as the space is small and 

I didn’t want them to encroach. 

Then the black lines just 

make sure that strong shade is 

present in each little zone. 

The doors were a real success story - we widened 

what was once the single kitchen door into a set 

of slimline double doors on parliament hinges so 

they can open right back to the wall. The glazing 

helps to ensure light can shine on this darker 

pocket of the house. We used reeded glass film to 

create an obscured effect for the utility door - still 

allowing light to shine, but without needing to see 

the detail of the appliances in there. 

▶ 

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

design. The visuals are spectacular - the range provides 

convergent airflow to keep the glass clean. I’m eco-conscious, 

so that weighed in heavily on my choice - the Riva2 not only 

meets but exceeds Ecodesign efficiency standards, which aim 

to improve air quality by minimising the level of permitted 

emissions from wood burning products. For those in smoke 

control areas, as we are, all models are DEFRA exempt as 

standard for burning wood in urban areas without the need 

for an additional kit. 

STOCKIST INFORMATION: 

Sofa, Otto Chaise in Taupe Brushed Linen Cotton sofa.com; Sarrah Blue Quartz Rug, 

ruggable.co.uk; Alvah Extendable Round Dining Table and Chantilly Polyester Blend 

Upholstered Slat Back Parsons Chair both wayfair.co.uk; Karndean Canadian Nude Oak 

Flooring, palioexpress.com; Neutral Abstract Sands Canvas Print, abstracthouse.com; Stovax 

Riva2, find your nearest supplier at stovax.com; QLED 4K Ultra HD TV (available in 43”, 50” 

& 55” screen sizes), find your local stockist online at mitchellandbrown.co.uk; Reeded Glass 

Film, surfacedesigns.com; Heritage Clear Glazed Doors, climadoor.co.uk; Cushions, Coffee 

Table, Throw and Log Basket from hauslife.co.uk; Ceiling Speakers from litheaudio.com 

▶ 

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

space, but I really didn’t want it to be the focal point of the 

room. I wanted a smaller television with a slimline frame, 

so it didn’t make such a visual statement - I really loved the 

slimline look of this Mitchell & Brown QLED 4K Ultra HD 

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

warranty, which is so much longer than many other brands. 

It’s a smart TV, so ready to go with all the apps. We’ve got it 

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

it’s needed. 


CREATE YOUR 

DREAM HOME 

Ahead of the Homebuilding & Renovating Show 

Series, we caught up with expert designer 

Julia Kendell to discuss all things interiors. 

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT SOME 

PROJECTS YOU’RE WORKING ON AT 

THE MOMENT? 

I’m currently working on several large 

property renovations and new builds 

for clients in the south east. One I am 

particularly enjoying is the contemporary 

renovation of a large 1920s property. 

The clients are configuring and adding 

to the space to create a huge 15m x 

8m open-plan kitchen and living area. 

These large spaces can be challenging 

to design but a lot of fun! This year I 

am also collaborating with one of the 

other Homebuilding & Renovating Show 

experts, Allan Corfield and a team of 

the best in the industry to provide a 

‘silver-service’ architectural design and 

build for clients who are looking for a 

premium experience where every detail 

is considered and delivered. Working 

alongside the best of the best is thrilling! 

I will be launching my ‘Interior Design 

Series’ in early Spring. This is a collection 

of video modules I have written and filmed 

to provide online content for anyone 

embarking on a decoration/ build and 

needing guidance to know where to start 

and how to create their perfect home. 

DO YOU THINK SOCIAL MEDIA IS 

MAKING DESIGN MORE ACCESSIBLE 

OR MAKING IT FEEL LIKE WE ALL 

NEED TO HAVE UNATTAINABLE, 

PERFECT SPACES? 

I have mixed feelings when it comes 

to design in social media. It certainly 

provides endless inspiration and ideas 

but so much of it is impractical for 

normal daily life or has been created by 

AI presenting ridiculously ‘fantastical’ 

settings. I ask clients to share Pinterest 

boards with me at the beginning of a 

project to ensure we are on the same 

page, but I occasionally have a battle to 

explain that most of the images online are 

lit and styled way beyond what can be 

expected in real life. 

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS TO REFRESH A 

SPACE WITH A LIMITED BUDGET? 

One of the most impactful ways to refresh 

a space is to think about maximising 

light into the room. Replace curtains with 

lighter blinds and if the budget allows, 

swap out carpet for hard flooring. A 

timber floor will always make a room 

feel substantially larger and brighter 

than carpet. A lick of paint on the walls 

always works wonders to make a space 

feel renewed and don’t forget about 

the ceiling. A fresh coat will aid light 

bouncing around the room and can be 

transformational. 

THE KITCHEN IS THE ENDURING 

POWERHOUSE OF THE HOME – 

AND OFTEN THE SPACE WE SAY 

SELLS HOUSES. HOW HAVE YOU 

SEEN KITCHEN DESIGN CHANGE IN 

THE PAST FEW YEARS AND WHAT 

CONSIDERATIONS AND TRENDS ARE 

YOU SEEING EMERGE NOW? 

Kitchen design has changed markedly 

in the past few years. With larger spaces 

to fill there has been an emergence of 

dedicated activity areas, such as breakfast 

cabinets, baking cabinets and walk-in 

larders. The island has also become the 

key must-have’ for most planning their 

new kitchen providing a sociable cooking 

area and somewhere to gather around. 

One of the newest trends has seen 

multiple islands becoming popular, each 

with specific uses, to fill cavernous openplan 

rooms. For those with a significant 

budget, there has also been a shift 

towards having a ‘show kitchen’ and a 

working kitchen behind it to mitigate some 

of the issues of open-plan entertaining. 

The most important consideration when 

planning your kitchen is to start the design 

process as early as possible. Often the 

kitchen design will lead positions of 

doorways/windows to maximise the layout 

so having this nailed before the builders 

make a start is always wise. 

WITH BUILD COSTS INCREASING 

RAPIDLY, WHERE WOULD YOU 

ADVISE HOMEOWNERS SPEND VS 

SAVE WHEN RENOVATING THEIR 

HOMES? 

The places to invest in are those that 

receive most use and are least likely to 

be replaced in the future. Flooring and 

lighting are key elements for any home 

and I would always prioritise buying good 

quality door and cabinet handles, light 

switches and any element that we interact 

with daily. Consider the ‘niggly’ areas that 

are a nuisance if not functioning well, such 

as leaky taps, dodgy boiler etc to inform 

decisions on investment. Renovating a 

home should provide a space of relaxation 

and enjoyment, not daily annoyances! 

Areas to save are the ‘novel’ built-in 

gadgets that might be easily tired of after 

a year or so and unnecessarily expensive 

paint (ask your decorator their thoughts 

on this!) 

HAVE YOU SEEN DESIGN BECOMING 

MORE SUSTAINABILITY-LED? 

The industry is certainly engaging in 

the sustainable conversation more 

and more. This, of course, is vital and 

not least because every time we make 

a good choice environmentally, it is 

inevitably a better choice for our health 

and well-being too. A low VOC product, 

for example, will ensure the air quality in 

the home remains clean and choosing 

natural material finishes are known to 

enhance our experience of our spaces, 

reduce stress and have a calming effect. 

Manufacturers are responding to this 

shift and it has become far easier to 

make sustainable choices in most areas 

of renovating/ new-build so there is less 

excuse not to pay attention! 

Design Series website - launching (Feb 

14th) - www.interiordesignseries.com 

The National Homebuilding & Renovating 

Show at the NEC, Birmingham, is 

celebrating its 30th anniversary. Readers 

can get free tickets to all the 2024 shows 

on this link: 

www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/ 

minerva 


Showroom Open 

COME AND VISIT OUR 

SHOWROOM IN WOKINGHAM 

Our large high street showroom is located 

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inspiration, talk to an expert or enquire 

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V 

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1-7 Denmark St, Wokingham, 

Berkshire, RG40 2AY 

0118 978 3393 

info@designs-for-living.co.uk

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TREES 

please! 

In this edition, our regular 

contributer Matt Biggs tells us 

how planting trees can make the 

world of a difference... 

There are many, many schemes to plant trees, in their hundreds 

and thousands and in many different places here and around 

the world. But just as a journey of a thousand miles starts with 

a single step so it is with tree planting, if even a few of us plant 

just one tree, that multiplication will make a big difference. I once 

saw a series of cartoons about ants – one by one they looked at 

the river they had to cross and one by one they realised that they 

couldn’t make it – however when they all combined, they made a 

raft and floated safely across – I love that image! 

The choice of tree is very dependant on your space, your location 

and what you want it to do for you – you might want a productive 

tree so a fruit tree or even a walnut would be possible choices, 

you might want to look out on it and enjoy it as it changes 

through the year so Rowans, crab-apples or, of course, the 

elegant silver birch will give you that or you might want that burst 

of Spring blossom and think of one of the flowering cherries 

– and then there is always my own personal favourite – the 

handkerchief tree, that is a stunner! 

The magnificent 

H andkerchief Tree 

Do your homework and seek advice from a local nursery or 

garden centre to ensure your choice of tree is right for the space 

– not only now but in 10 or 20 years’ time – and your tree will give 

shelter to birds and insects, add to the local biodiversity and add 

too the stock of trees that will make the future better for all of us, 

and our children and grandchildren too. 

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A HAPPY & 

HEALTHY 

Retirement 

Retirement marks a significant 

milestone in life, offering the promise 

of relaxation, exploration, and newfound 

freedom. However, achieving 

a happy retirement requires careful 

planning and foresight, particularly 

in the UK where factors such as 

pension schemes, healthcare, and 

cost of living play crucial roles. By 

taking proactive steps, individuals 

can pave the way for a fulfilling and 

financially secure retirement. 

START EARLY AND 

SAVE DILIGENTLY: 

The foundation of a successful 

retirement plan lies in starting 

early and consistently saving for 

the future. Take advantage of 

workplace pension schemes such 

as the government-backed National 

Employment Savings Trust (NEST) or 

employer-provided schemes, which 

often include employer contributions. 

Additionally, consider contributing to 

private pension plans or Individual 

Savings Accounts (ISAs) to diversify 

your retirement savings. 

UNDERSTAND 

STATE PENSION 

ENTITLEMENTS: 

The UK State Pension provides 

a fundamental source of income 

for retirees. To maximise your 

entitlement, ensure you have 

made sufficient National Insurance 

contributions throughout your 

working life. The State Pension 

age is regularly reviewed, so stay 

informed about any changes that 

may affect your retirement plans. 

CREATE A 

REALISTIC BUDGET: 

Assess your current financial 

situation and outline a realistic 

budget for retirement. Consider 

your expected expenses, including 

housing, healthcare, leisure 

activities, and potential long-term 

care costs. Factor in inflation and 

potential fluctuations in income 


to ensure your budget remains 

sustainable throughout retirement. 

You need to work out what you’d 

like retirement to look like, how 

much that would cost per year, and 

save and invest in line with those 

expectations. 

DIVERSIFY 

INVESTMENTS: 

While pensions form a core 

component of retirement planning, 

diversifying investments can provide 

additional sources of income and 

mitigate risks. Explore investment 

options such as stocks, bonds, 

mutual funds, and property, taking 

into account your risk tolerance and 

long-term financial goals. 

HEALTHCARE AND 

LONG-TERM CARE 

PLANNING: 

Healthcare costs can significantly 

impact retirement finances, 

especially as individuals age. 

Familiarise yourself with the NHS 

services available to retirees and 

consider private health insurance 

options to supplement your 

healthcare needs. Additionally, 

explore long-term care insurance to 

protect against the potentially high 

costs of residential or home care in 

later life. 

D E B T 

MANAGEMENT: 

Prioritise clearing outstanding 

debts before entering retirement 

to alleviate financial burdens and 

ensure a smoother transition. 

Develop a repayment plan to settle 

any outstanding mortgages, loans, 

or credit card debts, allowing you to 

enter retirement with greater financial 

freedom and peace of mind. 

STAY ACTIVE AND 

ENGAGED: 

Retirement is not just about 

financial planning; it’s also about 

maintaining physical, mental, and 

social well-being. Stay active by 

pursuing hobbies, volunteering, 

or engaging in part-time work 

if desired. Cultivate social 

connections with family, friends, and 

community groups to foster a sense 

of belonging and fulfilment during 

retirement. 

REGULARLY REVIEW 

AND ADJUST PLANS: 

Life is dynamic, and retirement 

plans should adapt accordingly. 

Regularly review your financial 

situation, investment portfolio, and 

retirement goals to ensure they 

remain aligned. Consider consulting 

with a financial advisor periodically 

to assess progress, make necessary 

adjustments, and stay on track 

towards a happy and secure 

retirement. 

In conclusion, planning for a happy 

retirement requires a proactive 

approach that encompasses 

financial preparation, healthcare, 

and lifestyle choices. By starting 

early, saving diligently, diversifying 

investments, and prioritising physical 

and emotional well-being, individuals 

can embark on retirement with 

confidence and optimism for the 

fulfilling years ahead. Remember, 

the key to a successful retirement 

lies in thoughtful planning and 

continuous adaptation to changing 

circumstances.

Join us for 

our next 

event 

Bickerton House care home, 

Bracknell 

Open days 

Friday 26th April 2024 

Saturday 27th April 2024 

10am - 4pm 

Come along to our open day and enjoy a 

range of activities. Sample our home baked 

cakes and savouries, meet our friendly 

team and take a tour of our beautiful home. 

Our Singing for the Brain activity will take 

place on the Saturday at 10.30am. 

Trusted to care. 

To book please call 

01344 961068 or email 

chantel.baigent@careuk.com

Caremark Wokingham & 

Bracknell Wins Regional 

Home Care Business Award 

A leading provider of home care within the 

community, has been awarded the title of 

top-performing business in its region at the 

Caremark Franchise 2024 Awards. 

The regional title was given to the franchise at an annual 

ceremony held during this year’s Caremark conference, where 

126 offices were in the running for awards. 

This win for Caremark Wokingham & Bracknell recognises 

franchise owners Bipin, Daksha and Ravi Patel for managing an 

excellent business over the course of 2023. They were voted 

for above others for not only delivering exceptional care but 

also providing support to fellow franchise owners and positively 

contributing to the wider franchise network. 

Naomi Haughton, Caremark’s regional support manager for the 

region, comments on the win: 

“As a region, we provide care to more than 1,600 customers, and 

this is growing fast. Caremark Wokingham & Bracknell is an office 

that has contributed immensely to this growth. Our 2023 data 

shows that they not only delivered exceptional home care to their 

customers but reached an impressive 14% growth compared 

to the year before, which is extra impressive as in 2022, they 

achieved a 52.7% growth rate! 

“Bipin, Daksha and Ravi are extremely dedicated and passionate 

about their business; their success is clear evidence of this. 

They have ai168908267816_half recently reached an page annual ad.pdf rolling 1 11/07/2023 turnover 14:38:00 of more 


than £3M, which will now see them as members of our exclusive 

support group for our biggest businesses.” 

David Glover, joint CEO of Caremark, also comments on the 

franchise’s achievement: 

“Congratulations to Caremark Wokingham & Bracknell for winning 

this highly sought-after regional title. The award acknowledges all 

the hard work and dedication the team has put in over the past 

year and is very well-deserved. They are complete ambassadors 

for the franchise, embodying our values to improve lives and 

enable customers to enjoy life as independently as possible. 

“As a franchise network, we’ve collectively delivered more than 

6 million hours of home care to people this year and continue to 

streamline our business model to become more effective within 

the community. It’s with thanks to our biggest team players like 

Caremark Wokingham & Bracknell who make it all possible.” 

For more information about Caremark and its services, please 

visit the Caremark website www.caremark.co.uk. 

We deliver excellent 

care at home 

with compassion and a cheery smile! 

C 

M 

Y 

CM 

MY 

CY 

CMY 

K 

At Caremark, we pride ourselves on providing: 

• professional and planned home care 

• specialist Dementia care 

• a comprehensive understanding of your 

individual preferences 

• dignity and respect 

• safety and happiness that enables you to 

stay at home 

Delivering care and smiles at every visit. 

Caremark Wokingham & Bracknell 

t: 0118 978 4657 

e: wokingham@caremark.co.uk 

w: caremark.co.uk/wokingham 


NEW TWO BEDROOM PROPERTIES NOW FROM 

£350,000 

LEASEHOLD 

Get more from your retirement years for less. 

Move to Lynwood Village! 

Beautiful, spacious homes each with balcony or roof terrace 

Superb onsite facilities including restaurant, coffee shop and swimming pool 

Ready-made, friendly community 

Trips out on private minibus 

Allocated underground parking available 

Onsite care and support service 

TO FIND OUT MORE 

PLEASE CALL: 01344 797837 OR EMAIL: SALES@LYNWOODVILLAGE.CO.UK 

Additional fees apply. Please see www.lynwoodvillage.co.uk/policies 

Owned and operated by Ben 

Ben – Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund. Lynwood Court, Lynwood Village, Rise Road, Ascot, SL5 0FG. 

A charity registered in England and Wales (no.297877) and Scotland (no.SC039842). A company limited by guarantee, 

registered in England and Wales (no.02163894). Registered with the Homes and Communities Agency (no. LH 3766).

Garden Furniture 

in Stock Now 

Thalia 4 Seat Round 

Dining Set 

M 

M 

Pergola 

Skylar 

Lounging Set 

M 

San Marino 

Corner Sofa Set 

M 

0118 971 2666 www.pine-oak.co.uk 

Midgham | RG7 5UX

Wokingham and Bracknell Lifestyle Apr - May 2024

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