Leamington and Warwick Living May - Jun 2024

Park Home NEW StoneL 2024 WLG 171x246.qxp_Layout 1 06/03/2024 10:13 Page 1 

Sponsored By 

World of Park & Leisure 

Homes Show 

NAEC Stoneleigh 

Don’t miss the UK’s biggest dedicated 

Park and Leisure Homes show 

more homes, more manufacturers, more traders, 

the best deals and it’s FREE to enter 

FREE 

ENTRY 

SEE 

YOU IN 

JUNE 

NAEC Stoneleigh, Stoneleigh Park 

Warwickshire, CV8 2TA 

Friday 28th – Sunday 30th 

June 2024 

Trade preview day Thursday 27th June 

A massive display of Park and Leisure 

Homes to view including the latest 

models and designs. Plus, information 

on hundreds of Sites around the UK 

and beyond, experts on hand to offer 

guidance and a range of selected 

companies providing accessories, 

services and products for these 

wonderful homes. 

FREE ENTRY • FREE PARKING • FREE SHOWGUIDE 

A Lifestyle changing Opportunity 

www.parkhomeandleisure.co.uk or call 01789 491451 

Supported by:

C O N T E N T S 

A NOTE 

from the editor 

19 

RECIPES CELEBRATING SHALLOTS 

Ah, May and June in the UK 

– the seasons of blooming 

flowers, endless cups of tea, 

and magazines filled with 

delightful reads - well, we 

hope you agree! 

As the sun starts to peek 

out from behind the clouds, 

this edition is bursting with 

stories to put a spring in your 

step and a smile on your 

face. 

04 

COMPETITIONS 

On the home front we have 

a living/diner transformation 

to really inspire you - with 

most of the work undertaken 

by the homeowners 

themselves! It’s a calm and 

welcoming space - perfect if 

you like things more neutral. 

On the foodie front we have 

some recipes celebrating an 

unsung hero - the flavourpacked 

shallot. Who knew 

that this versatile little root 

veg could be used in so 

many different ways! 

LIVING ROOM RENO 

Editor Katie Thomson 

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk 

Assistant Editor Kate Norris 

Publisher Sally Thomson 

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose 

Contributors 

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave, 

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence 

FOR ADVERTISING 

Account Manager Marion Cassidy 

e marion@minervapublications.co.uk 

t 01225 984502 

Front Cover Courtesy of Fatface 

31 

RETIREMENT PLANNING 

44 

MINERVA PUBLICATIONS 

Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm, 

Hilperton BA14 6JB 

t 01225 984 550 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

Printed on sustainably sourced paper. 

Please recycle this copy or pass it along 

when you are finished for someone else 

to enjoy. 

Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be 

held liable for any loss occasioned by 

failure of an advertisement to appear, or 

any damage or inconvenience caused by 

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of 

this publication may be reproduced without 

prior permission from the publishers. 

The opinions expressed within are not 

necessarily those of the publishers. 

If you are looking to shake up 

your wardrobe a little as the 

mercury rises, check out our 

summer style guide - we are 

all about those easy-breezy 

pieces that still make you 

looked pulled together. 

Our later life guide sees an 

insightful guide to retirement 

accommodation - perfect 

if you’re considering those 

next big steps. 

We will be back again in the 

height of summer - hopefully 

having already had some 

lovely sunshine and looking 

forward to some wonderful 

July and August scorchers 

ahead. See you then! 

Katie 

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Time 

COMPETITION 

Find out more about entering our competitions online 

at minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions - join our 

Competition Club and enter over 60 comps a year for 

only £12.99! Or enter for free by post. 

All the below close on 15th July 2024 

WIN A FINAMILL 

RECHARGEABLE ELECTRIC 

PEPPER MILL & SPICE 

GRINDER BUNDLE! 

Fall in love with freshly-ground spices 

again with FinaMill’s award-winning 

patented electric grinder! With its 

interchangeable pods, FinaMill is a 

brilliantly easy way to grind spices, 

regardless of whole spice shape, 

size and hardness. From salt and 

peppercorn to cumin seeds and even 

coffee beans! Win one of 3 bundles: 

Available from Amazon. 

Keyword ‘FinaMill’ 

WIN ONE OF 3 METHVEN 

SHOWER HEADS WORTH 

OVER £130 

Methven, the manufacturer of 

beautifully designed, innovative, and 

award-winning showers are offering 

their Eco Aio Shower head. Featuring 

patented Aurajet® technology, the 

handset gives up to 20% more spray 

coverage* and twice the amount of skin 

contact to deliver a full-bodied spray 

with maximum body contact and allover 

warmth. 

Shop online at uk.methven.com 

Keyword ‘Methven’ 

WIN A ULLEHUSE 6-SEATER 

GARDEN LOUNGE SET IN GREY 

WORTH £949.99 FROM JYSK 

Get summer ready with the help 

of JYSK. The best-selling JYSK 

ULLEHUSE polyrattan 6-seater 

corner sofa and table set with luxury 

cushions is a garden essential. Worth 

£949.99, the ULLEHUSE Lounge Set 

is a customer favourite and perfect 

for relaxing and alfresco dining. JYSK 

prides themselves on creating quality 

items that are loved in Denmark and 

now across the world. 

Shop online at jysk.co.uk 

Keyword ‘ULLEHUSE’ 

WIN CLASSIC 

BUNDLE BED 

WORTH £325 

Forget deflating air beds and hard roll 

mats, Bundle Beds have everything 

that you need for a brilliant night’s 

sleep in one bundle – yes, it’s ALL 

included! A super comfy self-inflating 

mattress, cosy duvet, comfy pillow and 

super soft bedding. Award winning, 

super soft and with a ten-year warranty, 

this is the perfect solution for extra 

beds, sleepovers, travel and camping! 

Shop online at bundlebeds.com 

Keyword ‘Bundle Bed’ 

WIN A GIN TASTING SESSION 

AND BOTTLE OF ARTISAN GIN 

You have the chance to win one of 

four pairs of Gin Tasting Experience 

vouchers plus a 50cl bottle of one 

of Warwickshire Gin Company’s six 

signature gins in a prize worth £77. 

The inspiration behind the awardwinning 

craft distillery’s portfolio of 

artisan premium spirits, comes from a 

desire to capture a moment in history, 

developing flavours to fully represent the 

county’s own unique story and bringing 

the range of hand-crafted flavours to life. 

Find out more at: 

warwickshiregincompany.co.uk 

Keyword ‘Warwickshire Gin’ 

WIN ANITA ROSA FAIA 

SWIMWEAR 

One lucky winner will win the Anita 

Rosa Secret Jungle Elouise Soft Cup 

Swimsuit (size 10-12) and cover up, two 

runners up will receive another costume 

from the Secret Jungle collection. 

With practical and decorative zip front 

opening for a customised design and fit, 

it’s made with Lycra Xtra Life fibre so it’s 

long lasting. The wire-free cups are kept 

in a powernet shelf with wide underbust 

elastic for an extra bust support. 

Comes with low cut rounded back and 

adjustable straps for ease of dressing. 

Find out more at Amplebosom.com 

Keyword ‘Anita Rosa’ 

4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

✩✩✩✩✩ THE TIMES 

✩✩✩✩✩ THE TELEGRAPH 

✩✩✩✩✩ THE INDEPENDENT 

✩✩✩✩✩ BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE 

“Pure Pleasure” THE GUARDIAN 

OZ & ARMONICO: ALE-LELUJAH 

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

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

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

thousand year 

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

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

to bar. 

This programme will suit all palates, from part-time 

tipplers and querulous quaffers, to the upper echelons 

of the inebriati. WISH YOU WERE BEER!! 

Generously supported by Roger Medwell DL MBE, President 

of Armonico Consort 

Narrator Oz Clarke | Musicians William Towers, 

Christopher Monks & Eloise Irving plus guests 

THE FAIRY QUEEN – HENRY PURCELL 

27 June 2024 7.30pm Royal Pump Room, Leamington Spa 

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

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

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

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

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

modern day retelling of both of these incredible works in 

one joyous evening! 

Armonico Consort will conjure up Purcell’s world of 

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

missed evening! 

This performance is generously supported by Hilary Eldridge, 

member of the Conductor’s Circle. 

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

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

SATURDAY 7 th SEPTEMBER 2024 

| Toe nails cut 

| Corns 

| Verrucae 

| Ingrowing toe 

| nails 

| Hard dry skin 

| Fungal nails 

Home appointments 

07842 266575 

Email: jorrusa@hotmail.com 

SCAN THE QR CODE TO 

BUY SHOW TICKETS! 

BUY TICKETS ONLINE: 

www.moretonshow.co.uk 

or call 01608 651908 

FREE 

Saturday 7th September 2024 

Car 

Parking 

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

Premium Livestock Showing, Arena Eventing Competition, 

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

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

NEW Attwell Farm Park Feature! 

Showground Opening Hours 8.30 - 17.30 

01.03.2024 – 31.07.2024 01.08.2024 – 06.09.2024 Show Day 

Adult £27.50 £30.00 £35.00 

Child (5-15) £13.75 £15.00 £17.50 

Family (2 adults 

& up to 3 children) 

£68.75 £75.00 £87.50 


30 APR – 4 MAY 

30 Apr – 4 May 

14 – 18 MAY 

20 MAY– 1 JUNE 

31 MAY – 1 JUNE 

30 Apr – 4 May 30 Apr – 4 May 

21 – 22 JUNE 

26 JUNE 

Book now belgrade.co.uk

NOTES FROM THE 

Garden 

By now we have enjoyed snowdrops, 

daffodils, cherry blossom and so much 

more from tulips to the brilliant green of 

new leaves on the trees… and there is so 

much more to come. 

Currently and over the 

past months there has 

been a huge amount 

of media coverage of 

mental health - both 

the fleeting and the 

fundamental, and also 

a number of reports 

about the benefits of 

gardening. 

After a stressful day, if 

you are lucky enough 

to have an outdoor 

space, just a few 

minutes breathing 

the air, watching the 

birds and seeing the 

seasonal changes can be 

incredibly beneficial. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

healthy in mind and body. 

For more advice, visit Matt Bigg’s website: 

www.matthewbiggs.com 

Warwickshire Lavender Farm 

Watery Lane , Bubbenhall ,CV8 3BY 

Situated in the heart of Warwickshire , just outside Leamington Spa, this delightful family run farm has 8 

acres of lavender rows ( 3 different varieties), grown especially for the exceptional oils they produce. 

These are then harvested in August, and the most wonderful essential oil is distilled on site. 

The essential oils are then sent off to award winning artisan manufacturers to be made into our wonderful 

high quality products. 

FROM JUNE 21st to JULY 28th 2024 THE FIELD will OPEN EACH DAY, WEDNESDAY THROUGH 

TO SUNDAY 10am - 4.30 pm . Purchase entry ticket on the gate £5 per adult, £3 per child 5 -16 (under 

5’s free,) parking free, spend a day relaxing, surrounded by the wonderful aroma and colour of lavender. 

Visit our shop, on line, www.warwickshirelavender.com, or please visit our delightful charity Lavender 

Cafe to purchase all our products and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee with a yummy cake! Open EVERY 

SATURDAY 10am - 2pm throughout the year, and open all the hours when the field is open! 

We so look forward to welcoming you 

Ian, Pippa and the team! 


Warwickshire Game & Country Fair 

Saturday & Sunday June 22nd/23rd 10am – 6pm 

A new Country Fair at a superb 

new venue, with all our usual show 

attractions and features: 

• Dynamic arena entertainment, 

Jousting, Horse Boarding, Chris 

Green the Cornish Countryman, 

Falconry, Working Dogs and more. 

• Lots of Country Sports and Pursuits 

to participate in and Have a Go. 

• Craft Show, Food Show – Great 

Street Food & Live Jazz. 

All wonderfully located at Wroxall Park 

on the A4141 Solihull-Warwick Road. 

Motorway Junction M42 J5 and M40 

J15 both within 5 miles of the venue. 

Saturday & Sunday June 22nd & 23rd 

is definitely a date for your diary. 

Lots to See! All day arena entertainment 

featuring some of the Countryside’s top 

attractions and organisations. Browse 

and wander around all the trade stands, 

Craft Village and Demonstration areas. 

Chefs on Stage in ‘Food Glorious Food’, 

these are just a few of the attractions. 

Lots to Do! There’s a range of Country 

Sports and Pursuits to Have a Go at, Clay 

shooting, Airguns, Archery & Paintball in 

the Shooting Village. Fishing & Falconry, 

lots of Dog events and competitions 

including the Fun dog show, so don’t 

leave them at home. 

Lots to Buy! For those who love to 

shop, there’s lots of retail outlets 

around the show arenas, inside the 

Craft Village, in the Food Halls and at 

the Chainsaw Auctions. 

Finally, after all the excitement, some 

form of refreshment may be called 

for, we’ve got that covered too. There 

is plenty of good food & drink in the 

shows’ main food courts, so relax and 

enjoy all whilst listening to live Jazz & 

Folk music. 

We look forward to welcoming you to 

the Warwickshire Game & Country Fair 

on Saturday & Sunday June 22nd/23rd 

10am - 6pm. 

Book your tickets now on www. 

livingheritagecountryshows.com/ 

tickets or ring 01283 820548 

Please check our website for the full 

listing of events and entry details. 

We look forward to seeing you there! 

LH094216 246x171 DPS WARWICKSHIRE GAME & COUNTRY 19-4.indd 1

THE COUNTRYSIDE COMES TO LIFE AT... 

WARWICKSHIRE GAME 

& COUNTRY FAIR 

Saturday & Sunday 

June 22nd & 23rd • 10am-6pm 

Living 

Heritage 

Events 

Bringing back the good times... 

it’s a really 

GOOD 

DAY OUT 

for the Family and 

Countryman 

ALL DAY ARENA ENTERTAINMENT • WORLD OF DOGS • FALCONRY & FISHING 

SHOOTING VILLAGE • FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT • CRAFT VILLAGE 

FOOD SHOW & LOTS OF COUNTRY SPORTS TO TRY 

Come and 

visit us . . . 

Tel 01283 820548 

when we return to 

the Showground for an 

action packed event 

Adults : £18.00 

Over 65s : £17.00 

Children : £6.00 

BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE NOW www.livingheritagecountryshows.com/tickets 

WROXALL PARK, WROXALL, NEAR WARWICK CV35 7NB 

www.livingheritageevents.co.uk

Olive Dress, 

£115, Busby 

& Fox 

Tarnish-Proof gold plated 

earrings, £14.99, hauslife.co.uk 

Boho Dress, 

£26, George 

at Asda 

Bag, £39.50, M&S 

Bella Slider, £37, 

Accessorize 

easy 

S U M M E R 

S T Y L E 

Summer is looming into view - so bringing 

the season of ease. Light cottons, breathable 

linens - effortless silhouettes 

AND OR Skirt, £69, 

and Leona Cardi, 

£75, John Lewis 

Lyons Tan Sandals, 

£95, Dune 

Margaret Midi Dress, 

£129, Barbour 

Cotton smock 

dress with 

pockets, £49.99, 

hauslife.co.uk 

Sandals, 

£65, M&S 

UV Sunglasses, £19.99, 


Olivia Art Floral Shirt, 

£46, Fatface 


ALL NEW 

HOUSE OF 

CAVANI 

FLAGSHIP 

STORE 

Step into a world where 

shopping isn’t just a task 

but an experience. Our 

flagship store, nestled at 

19 Lichfield Road, 

Birmingham B6 5RW, 

invites you to discover a 

world where every 

garment tells a story of 

style and sophistication. 

House of Cavani offers 

a versatile range of 

premium formalwear and 

casual attire, everything 

the modern gentleman 

requires to make a 

statement with 

confidence and flair. 

Our designers have a 

wealth of knowledge and 

experience in creating 

contemporary menswear 

clothing that is practical, 

stylish and remains 

comfortable. 

We even stock a wide 

range of matching 

childrens suits from 

1 year olds up to adult 

sizes - ideal for Weddings, 

Christenings & Prom. 

BOOK AN 

APPOINTMENT 

CAVANI.CO.UK

Cushion, 

£12.50, 

jysk.co.uk 

Britty Flynn 

Poster, 

desenio.com 

Checkerboard 

Table Lamp, £59, 

rockettstgeorge.co.uk 

FatFace Bea Gingham Scarf, £35, 

Keswick Wide Leg Crop Jean, 

£59, Frome Check Shirt, £46 

Hair Clip, £6.99, 


CHECK-MATE 

Step into a world of timeless design with these 

beautiful checkerboard patterns. This classic motif, 

known for its versatility, takes centre stage in 2024, 

offering a bold yet structured aesthetic. From 

fashion to interiors, Checkerboard effortlessly blends 

nostalgia with a contemporary twist. 

Warm Blue Gingham Linen Bedtime 

Bundle £415, pigletinbed.com 

Checkity Check 

Check Wallpaper, 

lusthome.com 

Afina Check Bone Box, 

£195, oka.com 

Chennai Handwoven Cushion Cover, 

£27, hauslife.co.uk 

Rug, £254, 

pappelina.com/en 

Chequered Earth Art Print, 

£23, greenlili.com 


Walcot Marble Side Table, 


Dylan Armchair, 

£795, 

theroost.com 

Homewares from 

katiefischer.de 

‘Graceful Neutral’ Paint, 

yescolours.com 

Serenity Coffee Table, £299, 

wheresaintsgo.co.uk 

Ceramic Vase, £39.99, 

wayfair.co.uk 

Trendsetters 

OUR FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE FASHIONS & FINDS 

Antique White 

Table Lamp 

With Linen 

Shade, £99, 


Boxed Wall Art, £179, 

rowenhomes.com 

NEW NEUTRALS 

Grounded neutral hues have become a staple within the 

world of interior design thanks to their ability to create a 

calming, tranquil ambience throughout the home (and the 

fact that these versatile shades compliment virtually every 

colour combination you might have in mind). 

Whether you’re looking to go all out or simply need a few 

statement accessories to ground your space, our curated 

collection has a little something for everyone. 

Cushion, £45, 

frenchbedroom.co.uk 

Clifton Sofa, £2499, 


CorkWall - Lagos Beige, 

naturewall.com 


Hip and Knee 

Replacement 

Surgery 

Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure 

where parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are 

removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or 

ceramic device called a prosthesis or implant. 

The prosthesis is designed to reproduce the 

shape and motion of the normal joint. 

The most common conditions that lead to joint 

replacement surgery are osteoarthritis and 

rheumatoid arthritis. There are, however, other 

causes of joint pain that may also lead to joint 

replacement including hereditary disorders, 

developmental problems, and trauma. Joint 

replacement is performed only after other 

treatments have failed such as medications, 

physical therapy, and injections. 

Hip and knee replacement are two of the most 

commonly performed operations in orthopaedic 

surgery at Meriden Hospital. Both procedures 

are very successful at eliminating pain, correcting 

deformity, and improving patient mobility so 

patients can regain quality of life and get back to 

the activities they enjoy. 

Meriden Hospital is now offering our private 

patients a choice of how their joint replacement 

is carried out. Along with our traditional method 

of hip and knee replacement surgery, our patients 

can also choose to have their procedure carried 

out by a consultant 

with the assistance of a 

robotic arm. Robotic-assisted hip and knee surgery 

is changing the way surgery is done and Meriden 

Hospital is proud to be at the forefront of this 

innovative joint replacement robotic technology. 

This pioneering robotic arm system is an advancement 

in the way orthopaedic surgeons perform hip and 

knee replacements that can lead to faster recovery 

times and reduced chances of infection and has 

been associated with more accurate placement and 

alignment of implants, less likelihood of dislocation, 

reduced blood loss, replication of the feeling of a 

natural joint, and preservation of healthy bone in 

comparison to manual techniques. 

If you’re experiencing pain caused by arthritis or 

trauma of the knee or hip, and you require a knee 

or hip replacement, you may be a good fit for 

robotic-arm assisted replacement surgery. The first 

step is to book a consultation with an Orthopaedic 

Consultant to discuss your condition and see if a 

robotic-arm assisted procedure or our traditional 

joint replacement surgery is right for you. 

To learn more about hip and 

knee replacement surgery at 

Meriden Hospital follow the 

QR code 

Our patients rate us a 

4.6 out of 5 on Google 

29017 0075 MKT ADT / 03.2024

B E S T F O O T 

forward 

Feel sharp pain in your heel, 

especially in the mornings? 

You could have plantar 

fasciitis. Bente Smith-Rewse, 

Founder of Enertor.com & 

Biomechanics Specialist gives 

us his tips on remedying this 

condition... 

What is plantar fasciitis? 

The inflammation of the plantar 

fascia, a ligament that runs along 

the bottom of the foot. Symptoms 

include sharp heel pain, especially 

upon taking the first steps in the 

morning. 

Are certain people more prone 

to it? 

People with flat feet or high arches 

frequently disperse their weight, 

putting additional stress on the 

plantar fascia and causing foot 

pain. Very common in runners, 

those with heel pad atrophy, low 

Achilles tendon or calf muscle 

flexibility, also ageing and obesity. 

An inactive lifestyle or standing on 

hard surfaces can also contribute. 

Is it curable? 

Most people who have plantar 

fasciitis recover. However, modify or 

stop the activity if you know what 

caused the pain. 

How can it be managed? 

To prevent plantar fasciitis, wearing 

shoes that provide good arch 

support and cushioning is essential 

to reducing the force on the foot 

and lower limb. A single step can 

exert a force twice our body weight; 

over a single day our feet can 

therefore support the equivalent to 

hundreds of tons. 

An insole, such as Enertor, 

designed with arch support made 

by a shock absorbing material can 

alleviate strain on the ligament and 

reduce the force under the foot - it 

is unlikely to clear on its own. 75% 

of Enertor insole users confirm that 

adding this scientifically proven 

accessory to their footwear healed 

their plantar fasciitis. 

Regularly stretch your calf muscles 

and perform specific stretches 

for the plantar fascia to maintain 

flexibility and prevent tightness. 

Avoid walking on hard surfaces 

or uneven surfaces to reduce the 

impact and avoid sudden strain on 

the plantar facia. 

Is it preventable? 

Plantar fasciitis is both treatable 

and preventable. To prevent 

plantar fasciitis, it is best to wear 

comfortable, well-fitted, supportive 

shoes with a good insole such 

as Enertor, rest your feet after a 

workout or after standing for an 

extended amount of time, and 

stretch your feet regularly. Don’t 

walk barefooted. 

For more information on plantar 

fasciitis and Enertor’s insoles, 

www.enertor.com 


SOS Lip is a deeply 

nourishing and 

mattifying lipbalm 

with broadspectrum 

UVA & 

UVB protection 

SPF 30, that helps 

to moisturise and 

protect lips against 

the harsh effects of 

the cold, wind and 

sun. SOS Serum 

– SOS Lip, £16, 

sosserum.co.uk 

A L L 

L I P 

Smooth lips require a bit of 

work - here are some hero 

products to perfect your pout 

The COSRX Balancium Ceramide 

Lip Butter Sleeping Mask cocoons 

dry, chapped lips in an ultrasmooth 

veil of buttery goodness. 

A blend of shea butter and ceramides unite 

to create the perfect protective barrier, 

working to replenish lost moisture and 

condition the lips. The creamy, buttersoft 

lip sleeping mask effortlessly melts 

onto the lips to provide comfort, whilst 

visibly smoothing for a plumper-looking 

appearance. COSRX – Lip Sleep, £22, 

Cult Beauty, Look Fantastic 

A blend of sugar, coffee and 

ethically sourced beeswax – a 

combo that will make your lips 

soft, smooth and kissable. Perfect 

for everyday maintenance if you 

have dry lips or pre-lipstick. 100% 

natural and smells delicious. Frank 

Body – Original Lip Scrub, £11.50, 

facethefuture.co.uk 

MEET YOUR NEW 

HERO PRODUCT 

From The Germaine De Capuccini Timexpert 

Rides Range – Xcel Retinage Filler, £120.25. 

The Germaine de Capuccini Retinol Bio RDS 

complex safely delivers a slow release of retinol 

into the dermis and epidermis. This unique slow 

release technology allows Retinage Filler to work 

for hours after application, renewing the cells and 

stimulating natural collagen production. Botox in 

a bottle! 

Developed in the brand’s Spanish HQ laboratories, 

Pure Retinol Bio RDS is the most advanced 

encapsulation technology of Retinol. Providing 

maximum effectiveness and optimal tolerance. 

The pure retinol is encapsulated in micro-particles 

– small enough to penetrate the epidermis and 

dermis. 

In the epidermis Pure Retinol Bio RDS gives the 

skin maximum cellular renewal, increases the 

thickness of the epidermis and balances skin 

dryness. 

Skin recovers density and firmness, with a 

luminous and smoother appearance, whilst feeling 

more hydrated. 

germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk 

The Bondi Body LED Face Mask, 

£249, is the only LED Mask 

on the market with 4 different 

INFRARED light settings at 

it’s price point. RED, BLUE, 

PURPLE, YELLOW - and 31% 

more powerful than any other 

LED Mask. Consumers can now 

get £40 off when they enter 

FORTY at checkout. 

Red Light: Skin rejuvenation 

awaits. Red light is known to 

support in the reduction of 

inflammation, plus it is great for 

stimulating collagen production 

and blood circulation for plumper, 

healthier skin that glows with 

vitality. 

Blue Light: Successful in treating 

acne, scarring and excess oil 

production. Blue light works by 

targeting the skin’s oil glands to 

reduce their activity, which stops 

breakouts in their tracks. It also 

kills the bacteria inside pores. 

Combined with red light, it 

has an anti-inflammatory 

effect upon the skin too. 

Yellow Light: A glow 

booster for skin. Yellow 

light creates movement in 

the top layers of the skin’s 

cells, making it more 

receptive to the nearinfrared 

light that follows. 

Purple Light: Purple 

light combines red and 

blue lights to eliminates 

acne-causing bacteria 

while reducing facial 

inflammation and reducing the 

appearance of acne, age-spots 

and hyperpigmentation. 

bondi-body.com 


MON 

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IBIZA_PROMS_2024_POSTER.pdf 1 16/08/2023 11:10 

F R I D A Y 1 9 T H J U L Y 2 0 2 4

That’s 

Shallot 

UK Shallot help us celebrate this unsung 

hero! Find more recipes at: ukshallot.com 

SALMON AND 

SHALLOT 

TANDOORI 

SKEWERS 

These tandoori salmon skewers 

are the perfect BBQ recipe for 

summer, or they can also be 

grilled indoors on a griddle pan 

if it’s a classic British summer 

of rain! 

Serves: 4 

Preparation Time: 15 minutes 

(plus up to 60 minutes 

marinating time) 

Cooking Time: 10 minutes 

For the quick pickled shallots 

4 round shallots, peeled and 

finely sliced 

125ml water 

125ml white wine vinegar 

½ tsp fennel seeds 

½ tsp cumin seeds 

1 tbsp table salt 

2 tbsp golden caster sugar 

For the skewers 

4 skinless salmon fillets (about 

125g each) 

2 round shallots, finely chopped 

1 large garlic clove, grated 

2.5cm piece of fresh ginger, 

grated 

Juice of 1 lime 

100g Greek yoghurt 

1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder 

1 tsp ground turmeric 

1 tsp ground cumin 

2 tsp ground coriander 

2 tsp smoked paprika 

Salt and pepper, to taste 

Vegetable oil 

To serve 

4 naan breads 

4 tbsp raita 

2 tbsp coriander leaves 

1 long green chilli, finely sliced 

Lime halves 

Prepare the quick pickled 

shallots. Place the sliced 

shallots in a clean bowl. Put the 

water, wine vinegar, fennel and 

cumin seeds, salt and sugar into 

a small pan over a medium heat 

and stir until the sugar and salt 

are fully dissolved. Pour the hot 

pickling liquor over the shallots 

and leave to cool slightly. Cover 

the bowl and place in the fridge 

to pickle. 

To prepare the salmon, cut each 

fillet into 4 equal-sized chunks. 

Place the chunks in a bowl with 

the chopped shallots, garlic, 

ginger and lime juice and mix 

well. 

In another bowl, mix the yoghurt 

with the spices and some salt 

and pepper. Add this spiced 

yoghurt to the salmon and mix 

well again. Leave to marinate 

in a cool place for at least 20 

minutes, or up to an hour. 

Once marinated, thread the 

salmon onto your skewers. 

Brush the hot barbecue or 

griddle pan lightly with a little 

vegetable oil then lay the 

skewers on it. Cook for 2–3 

minutes on each side until 

golden brown and lightly 

charred. Meanwhile, warm the 

naan on a low heat in the oven. 

Once cooked, transfer the 

skewers to a warm plate. 

Spread the naans with a 

tablespoon each of raita. Top 

with a salmon skewer. Scatter 

over the pickled shallots, some 

coriander and sliced green 

chilli. Serve with lime halves for 

squeezing over. 


CHAAT MASALA 

POTATOES AND 

SHALLOTS 

Sweet and crunchy, raw echalions 

shallots marry perfectly with crispy 

new potatoes, cold yoghurt and a 

zingy dressing in this fresh Indianinspired 

salad. 

Serves: 4 

Preparation Time: 10 minutes 


For the potatoes 

750g baby new potatoes, cut 

lengthways into 1cm thick slices 

2 tbsp olive oil 

1 tsp chaat masala 

½ tsp ground turmeric 


250g thick Greek yoghurt 

1 echalion, thinly sliced on a 

mandolin or by hand 

1 green chilli, thinly sliced 

1½ tsp coriander seeds, toasted 

1½ tsp nigella seeds, toasted 

For the coriander chutney 

30g fresh coriander, reserving a few 

for garnish 

1 green chilli, deseeded and roughly 

chopped 

1 tbsp lime juice 

4 tbsp olive oil 

Salt 

To serve 

1½ tbsp shop-bought tamarind 

paste 

1½ tsp caster sugar 

¼ tsp chaat masala 

Preheat the oven to 200°C fan. Put 

a large pan of salted water on to 

boil. Once boiling add the potatoes 

and cook for 4-5 minutes until 

cooked through. Drain the potatoes. 

Add the potatoes to a large baking 

tray – drizzle with the 2 tbsp oil, 

and top with the chaat masala, 

turmeric and seasoning. Toss 

to mix thoroughly. Roast in the 

oven, stirring once or twice, for 35 

minutes, or until deeply golden. 

Meanwhile, make the coriander 

chutney. Put all the ingredients into 

a food processor or blender and 

blitz until smooth. Set aside. 

To make the tamarind dressing, 

whisk together all the ingredients in 

a small bowl with 1½ teaspoons of 

water until the sugar is dissolved. 

Set aside. 

Spread the yoghurt on a large 

serving platter. Top with half the 

coriander chutney, swirling it through 

without completely incorporating. 

Drizzle with half of the tamarind 

dressing, and top with the potatoes, 

shallot and chilli. Drizzle over the 

remaining coriander chutney and 

tamarind dressing, then sprinkle 

over the toasted seeds and reserved 

coriander leaves and serve. 

CHICKEN, 

SHALLOT AND 

CASHEW CURRY 

This warming, fragrant chicken curry 

is the perfect dish to cook over the 

weekend when you have a little bit 

more time. Serve with rice, chapatis 

and pickles for a delicious feast. 

Serves: 4 

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 

2 hours marinating time and 30 

minutes soaking) 


For the chicken 

2 tbsp Greek yoghurt 

2 tsp turmeric 


800g skinless bone-in chicken 

thighs and drumsticks 

2 tsp vegetable oil 

6 cloves 

1 cinnamon stick 

120g round shallots, peeled and 

finely chopped 

1 tsp sugar 

100ml warm water 

½ tsp ground cardamom 

For the cashew paste: 

75g cashew nuts 

5cm piece of ginger, peeled and 

roughly chopped 

2 green chillies 

For the temper: 

1 tbsp vegetable oil 

2 round shallots, peeled and thinly 

sliced 

30g cashew nuts 

1 tsp mustard seeds 

10 curry leaves 

Put the yoghurt, turmeric and salt 

and pepper in a bowl and stir to 


combine. Mix through the chicken, 

cover and leave in the fridge to 

marinate for at least 2 hours. 

Meanwhile, make the cashew 

paste. Soak the cashews in 100ml 

of warm water for half an hour. Put 

the cashews and their liquid in a 

blender with the ginger and chillies, 

blitzing to a smooth paste. 

Heat the 2 teaspoons of vegetable 

oil in a large, lidded saucepan on 

a medium heat. Add the cloves 

and cinnamon and let sizzle for a 

couple of minutes until fragrant. 

Add the shallots and cook, stirring 

often, until golden – around 6 

minutes. 

Add the chicken and fry for 8 

minutes until seared all over. 

Lower the heat, add the sugar, a 

pinch of salt and 100ml of water. 

Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, 

stirring halfway through. Stir in the 

cashew paste, simmer for a further 

5 minutes, add the cardamom, and 

take the pot off the heat. 

Allow the curry to rest whilst making 

the temper – heat the 1 tbsp oil in a 

small frying pan on a medium heat. 

Add the shallots and cook for five 

minutes until starting to turn golden. 

Add the cashews and fry for a 

further 2 minutes. Add the mustard 

seeds and curry leaves, cook for 30 

seconds. Pour the temper over the 

curry and serve with rice or chapati. 

BEEF AND 

SHALLOT 

EMPANADAS 

The filling of these empanadas is 

a classic combination of Spanish 

flavours – beef, shallot, sultanas and 

olives. Deep fried until crispy, then 

finished with a salsa verde inspired 

shallot green sauce. 

Serves: 6-8 


resting time) 


For the dough 

450g plain flour 

1 tbsp salt 

60g unsalted butter 

1 egg 

6 tbsp water 

1 tbsp vinegar 

For the filling 

2 eggs, hard-boiled 

1 tbsp of olive oil 

4 echalion shallots, peeled and 

chopped 

1 garlic clove 

1 tbsp dried oregano 

500g beef mince 

1 tbsp raisin 

1 tbsp pitted green olives, roughly 

chopped 

½ a 400ml tin of chopped tomatoes 

Vegetable oil for frying 

For the green sauce 

1 small bunch of tarragon 

2 large bunches of flat-leaf parsley 

2 round shallots, peeled 

3 tsp Dijon mustard 

40g small capers, drained, rinsed 

and roughly chopped 

200ml extra virgin olive oil 

2 tbsp sherry vinegar 

Start with the dough - mix the 

flour, salt, and butter in a bowl by 

hand until it comes together as a 

homogeneous dough. 

In a separate large bowl, beat the 

egg, water, and vinegar, and add the 

mix to the flour dough. 

By hand, knead the mixture on a 

clean surface covered with a little bit 

of flour until it comes together as a 

rustic dough, and set aside, covered, 

in the fridge for one hour. 

To make the filling – peel and cut 

the hard-boiled eggs into thin slices. 

Heat the oil in a large pan on a 

medium heat - cook the echalion 

shallots until golden brown, then 

add the garlic and oregano, and 

stir for two minutes. Add the beef 

mince and cook for 10 minutes until 

browned. Add the raisins, olives, 

hard-boiled eggs, and chopped 

tomatoes. 

Meanwhile, make the green sauce 

by blitzing all the ingredients to a 

chunky texture in a blender. 

Heat 6cm vegetable oil in a large, 

deep-frying pan on a medium heat. 

Take the dough and roll out with 

a rolling pin to form a rectangular 

sheet around 2cm in thickness. 

Then, using a small bowl or cup, cut 

out circles around 12cm in diameter. 

Take a circle of dough and fill it with 

2 tablespoons of the beef filling. 

Then, fold the dough over and mark 

the edges with a fork to close the 

empanadas. 


Add a few empanadas to the oil at 

a time – cooking for 4-5 minutes 

until golden brown. Serve on a large 

platter or board with the green sauce 

on the side. 

SHALLOT 

PISTO WITH 

MANCHEGO 

EGGS 

Pisto is a vegetarian Spanish dish 

similar to ratatouille or caponata. 

Here we’ve topped it with a crispy 

Manchego fried egg, making it the 

perfect brunch, lunch or even dinner. 

Serves: 4 


resting time) 


4 tbsp sultanas 

50ml sherry vinegar 

60ml extra-virgin olive oil 

4 echalion shallots, peeled and cut 

into 2cm cubes 

1 red pepper, deseeded and cut into 

2cm cubes 

1 aubergine, trimmed and cut into 

2cm cubes 

2 courgettes, trimmed and cut into 

2cm cubes 

1 garlic clove, peeled and minced 

1 tbsp dried oregano 

4 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped 

3 tbsp toasted pine nuts 

Salt and black pepper 

4 tbsp chopped parsley 

Vegetable oil, for frying the eggs 

100g Manchego, grated 

4 eggs 

1 big pinch smoked paprika, to serve 

Put the sultanas and sherry vinegar in 

a small bowl and leave to plump up. 

To make the pisto, put the extravirgin 

olive oil in a large, deep frying 

pan on a medium heat. Once it’s hot, 

add the echalion shallots and red 

pepper, and fry, stirring occasionally, 

for about 5 minutes, until soft. Add 

the aubergine, cook for 2 minutes, 

then add the courgette and cook, 

stirring from time to time, for a 

couple of minutes, until all the 

vegetables are soft. 

Stir in the garlic and oregano, cook 

for a minute, then add the tomatoes 

and cook on a very low heat, stirring 

occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, until 

they reduce and turn saucy. Strain 

the sultanas, discarding the vinegar, 

then add them to the pan with the 

pine nuts. Season to taste, then take 

off the heat and stir in the parsley. 

Add a little vegetable oil to a medium 

frying heat on a medium heat – add 

a little pile of grated Manchego and 

once it’s melted crack an egg on top. 

Add a little more Manchego around 

the borders of the eggs. Fry until the 

egg white is set and the cheese is 

golden and crispy. 

Transfer the pisto onto dishes and 

top with the eggs, then finish with a 

drizzle each of extra-virgin olive oil, a 

good pinch of smoked paprika and 

pepper. 

ukshallot.com 


BEE KEEPING EXPERIENCE 

WITH CHARLOTTE BUCKLAND 

Saturday 25th May 

Enjoy refreshments and a honey tasting on 

arrival before heading over to our bee hives. 

Finish the experience with a glass of fizz 

followed by a honey themed two course lunch 

in the Dining Room. 

THE DINING ROOM AT MALLORY 

Our Executive Chef and his team prepare seasonal 

menus, harvesting produce from our kitchen 

gardens, and working with local suppliers, to 

create exciting new dishes and flavours. 

GARDEN TOUR 

Thursday 20th June 

Enjoy coffee on arrival before heading out to 

explore our 10 acres of gardens. After the tour, 

a two-course lunch will be served in the Dining 

Room with the menu themed on seasonal 

garden produce. 

À la carte and Seasonal Tasting Menu from 

£60.00 per person 



Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, CV33 9QB | INFO@MALLORY.CO.UK | T: 01926 330214 

 

THE HARVESTER 

 

Long Itchington 

 

We are pleased to be included in the 2024 CAMRA Good Beer Guide. 

 

 

Our policy is to source the 

best beer from both local and 

 

national 

 

brewers, creating 

 

a rotating choice to keep the range varied. 

 

 

 

 

You can find out our current line up either 

 

by X (Twitter-@liharvester) or using the Real 

 

Ale Finder app (free to use) and mark The 

Harvester as a favourite, scan the QR code 

 

below, or by visiting the pub. 

 

 

Food is served every day, while in 

our garden 

 

the wood fired pizza oven is open from 6pm 

till 9pm (8pm Sun), offering you custom made 

 

 

pizzas 

 

(inc GF/DF). 

 

 

 

Contact us via: 

Or filling in the form on the website 

 

 

01926 812698 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

www.theharvesterinn.co.uk 

 

 

 

 

 

M A Y 

BEER 

2 4 T H 

FESTIVAL 

- 2 7 T H 

2 0 2 4 


O U T O F A F R I C A 

in the heart of Leicestershire 

Escapism. That’s been the fodder of 

my day dreams recently. I honestly 

feel like I haven’t taken a deep breath 

in months - I’m sure we can all relate 

to those stretches where life feels like 

a hamster wheel. 

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

the perfect antidote. I was recently 

invited to stay at a glamping tent with 

a difference - an Out of Africa-themed 

safari tent, nestled lakeside in the 

glorious surrounds of Brook Meadows 

Farm Camp Site. 

This is no ordinary tent though - inside 

the khaki canvas of the Marabou Safari 

Glamping Lodge you’ll find a kitchen 

with a fridge and a hob, a full bathroom 

with a luxury roll top bath, two double 

beds (including one mosquito netdraped 

four-poster), two tented singles 

and the absolute jewel in the crown - a 

bespoke cabin bed festooned with fairy 

lights. This bed caused literal squeals 

of delight with our accompanying sixyear-old, 

who bundled herself into the 

space immediately, declaring she never 

wanted to leave. 

The interior has been so thoughtfully 

conceived, with layered details - antique 

furniture, vintage glassware, quirky 

lighting and a vast array of jungleprinted 

velvets and cane detailing. 

Owner Claire’s eye for design is evident, 

and all the elements are functional as 

well as beautiful. 

We don’t necessarily equate camping 

with a good night’s sleep, but this is 

glamping, so the beds were supremely 

comfortable and the bedding cosy. 

We awoke well rested, to the distant 

moos of the farm’s cattle and dappled 

sunlight on the canvas. 

lake - who knew that waiting for the 

whistle of a stove-top kettle would 

be the needed prompt to take a deep 

breath. There’s something luxuriant 

and lovely about the necessity of 

camping, glamping or otherwise, to 

slow things down; you’re more mindful 

in everything that you do - from rolling 

up the canvas covers on the windows 

to lighting a fire, things take more time 

and that’s perfectly lovely. 

As well as being the heat source of 

the tent, the wood-burning stove was 

also our oven - we loved the elemental 

nature of it, not to mention the 

amazing flavour it gave our sausages! 

There’s a fire pit with cooking grill 

outside too - ready to make the most 

of the summer months. 

The farm is a working one, and we 

were treated to a talk about the calving 

season - even getting to see a calf that 

was only a day old. The farm is also 

home to a flock of happy hens, and 

owner Mary will help little visitors to 

collect the day’s eggs, some still warm 

in the nest. This connection to nature, 

and to food production, is so vital for 

children to understand, and the whole 

process is brought to life on the farm. 

Mary even discussed how the different 

chicken breeds produce varying 

colours of egg shells - something we 

were treated to in our own hamper. 

There’s lots to enjoy in and around the 

farm. Optional extras include a range of 

gorgeous handmade, locally sourced, 

hampers delivered fresh to the door; 

wood fired pizzas on site every 

Tuesday and Saturday and a coffee 

shop with artisan homemade coffee 

and cakes. As part of a working farm 

guests can take a 4x4 tour of farm or 

settle in on a straw bale for a Saturday 

night ‘moovie’ in the cowshed cinema. 

Brook Meadows have also partnered 

with local petting farm Mini Meadows 

to provide visitors to the lodges and 

tents with passes to enjoy. 

Many of us holiday with our four legged 

friends in tow - and your furry child will 

be well catered for with a little welcome 

pack of their own, featuring homebaked 

treats, rope toys and a natural 

nose and paw balm - you won’t be the 

only one feeling relaxed after a stay! 

If you are looking for a true retreat, in 

the most beautiful of surroundings, I’d 

implore you to book a stay at Brook 

Meadows - I know I’ll be back next time 

I need to take some time for myself. 

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

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

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

person, up to eight people. 

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

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

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

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

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

Mornings were slower, with a coffee 

taken out on the deck overlooking the 

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

Leicestershire, LE16 9UJ 


p e r f e c t 

g i f t s , 

c l o t h e s & 

a c c e s s o r i e s 

1 0 % o f f 

o n l i n e a n d i n 

s t o r e u s i n g 

1 0 H A U S L I F E 

3 Abbeygate Steet, Bath | www.hauslife.co.uk

Top Tips 

when considering an 

independent school 

Every parent wants to give 

their child the best start 

in life, and this naturally 

includes choosing a school 

that best suits their child’s 

needs. For many this can be a 

daunting task, and it can be hard 

to know where to start. 

An independent education remains a 

popular choice for families, with lots 

of different schools to choose from 

including day and boarding, singlesex 

and co-educational, and schools 

with specialisms such as in the arts 

or sport. 

Open days give families the 

opportunity to see first-hand 

whether a particular school is the 

right fit. Some schools continue 

to run virtual open days in the 

aftermath of the pandemic, making 

it possible for families to explore 

what a school has to offer from the 

comfort of their own home. 

There are many different aspects to 

consider when attending an open 

day, so to help ease the process, 

here are some top tips for parents 

considering an independent school 

for their child: 

NARROW DOWN 

YOUR CHOICES 

If you live in an area with a number 

of good schools nearby, create a 

shortlist and take time to plan your 

school visits. For parents with a 

limited choice of local schools, the 

‘Find a School’ tool on the isc.co.uk 

website is particularly useful, as it 

enables you to refine your search 

by distance, day and boarding, age 

range, fee assistance options and 

more! If you are considering a school 

which is further afield, it’s worth 

making a day of it so you and your 

child can get a feel for the area. 

THINK ABOUT 

THE SCHOOL’S 

SPECIALISM OR 

FOCUS 

All independent schools are 

different, offering unique specialisms 

and strengths. Ask yourself what 

type of school would best suit your 

child – are they sporty, academic or 

creative? If you have an academic 

child you might like to consider a 

selective school, whereas if your 

child is very creative, you might 

prefer a school with excellent arts 

provision and facilities. 

DON’T BE AFRAID 

TO ASK QUESTIONS 

Teachers expect parents to be 

inquisitive and are well prepared to 

answer questions, so ask teachers 

everything you want to know; it is 

always best to speak up if you have 

any queries or concerns! Important 

areas that you might ask about 

include class sizes, the subjects 

on offer, methods of assessment, 

extracurricular activities and 

pastoral support. 

It would also be worthwhile 

learning more about how the 

school communicates with parents; 

it’s important that you feel wellinformed 

and able to discuss any 

matters pertaining to your child’s 

progress or wellbeing. If you are 

considering a boarding school for 

your child, take the opportunity 

to find out more about the on-site 

accommodation, flexi-boarding 

options and what activities take 

place over the weekends. 

Chat to pupils as well as staff and 

ask them about their experiences 

at the school. Much can be learned 

from observing their behaviour – do 

they seem happy, confident and at 

ease in their environment, are they 

engaged with their lessons and 

wider activities? 

MAKE A FOLLOW-UP 

APPOINTMENT 

An open day allows you to build an 

impression of what type of school 

is on offer. So, if you are happy 

with what you see, book a followup 

appointment with the school. 

This will enable you to speak more 

personally with the headteacher 

or registrar and provide another 

opportunity to ask any further 

questions or raise concerns you 

might have. 

The independent sector is diverse, 

with a huge array of schools and 

approaches to education on offer. 

Make the most of your open days, 

and use the experience to guide you 

as you choose the right school for 

your child. 


Open 

Evening 

Visit our Junior and Senior schools to 

see what makes Bablake so special 

Friday 21 June 

5.00pm - 8.00pm 

BOOK NOW: bablake.com 

ISI Inspection 2023 

‘EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS’ 

An independent co-educational school in the heart of Coventry for ages 7-18. 

Bablake_Living Mag_153x110_June24OpenEve.indd 1 16/04/2024 15:47 

Open 

Morning 

Come and see our Junior and 

Senior Schools at their very best 

Saturday 22 June 

9.30am - 12.30pm 

‘EXCELLENT 

IN ALL AREAS’ 

ISI Inspection 2023 

BOOK NOW: 

kinghenrys.co.uk 

An independent co-educational school in the heart of Coventry for ages 6-18. 

KING_Living Mag_153x110_June24OpenMorn.indd 1 www.minervamagazines.co.uk 16/04/2024 15:46 | 27

Register Now For 

September 2024 

Places available 

for ages 3-7 

Call Admissions on 024 7627 1190 

or email admissions@csfoundation.org.uk 

The Grange, Brownshill Green Road, Coventry, CV6 2EG 

An Independent Nursery for children aged 3+ 

BabPreprep_LivingMag_153x110_SpacesAvailable.indd 1 15/04/2024 14:04 

Register Now For 

September 2024 

Places 

available 

For ages 3+ 

Call Admissions on 024 7627 1190 

or email admissions@csfoundation.org.uk 

Kenilworth Road, Coventry CV3 6PT 

An Independent Nursery for children aged 3+ 

28 | KH8Preprep_LivingMag_153x110_SpacesAvailable.indd www.minervamagazines.co.uk 

1 15/04/2024 14:07

BABY AND 

Beyond 

TOTTER + TUMBLE: 

Totter and Tumble playmats provide 

a safe and secure floor for many of 

your child’s milestones - from their 

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to taking their first steps. These 

mats are also great for parents too, 

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children’s sensory development and 

Totter + Tumble’s wipeable playmats 

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The beauty of the playmats are that 

at the end of the day when the kids 

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met with the garish colours play 

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totterandtumble.co.uk 

MAGNETIC MOUSE: 

With a beautiful range of prints 

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Mouse Babygrow Set £49.95, 

and Blue Romper Set, £45, all 

magnetmouse.co.uk 

GLOW DREAMING: 

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where you can contact their team 

for one-on-one support. Backed by 

science, engineered for sleep. For 

more information visit 

glowdreaming.co.uk 

LITTLE 

HOTDOG 

WATSON: 

Cool kids hat brand Little Hotdog 

Watson is on a mission to make 

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whole world. They 

create high-quality, 

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kidswear designed to 

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All their Summer 

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weather. Starting from £30, 

littlehotdogwatson.com 

S P O T T Y 

OTTER: 

Spotty Otter, the 

renowned outdoor 

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Putting the FUN back 

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With a focus on quality, 

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range is the ultimate solution for 

parents seeking reliable protection 

against the elements. Check them 

out today at spottyotter.co.uk 

YOUR CHANCE 

TO WIN 

Win an amazing bundle featuring 

a product or selection from 

every brand on this page! Head 

to minervamagazines.co.uk/ 

competitions to find details of 

entry. Competition keyword: ‘Mega 

Baby Bundle’ 

Closes 15th July 2024. T&Cs apply. 


BABY CARRIER: CARIPOD addresses 

challenges faced by many parents when using baby 

carriers, such as complicated loading, poor back support 

or simply the lack of height/size inclusivity. Designed by 

parents at Seraphine, the CARIPOD was conceptualised 

in back in early 2020. Since then, the CARIPOD has 

been meticulously trialled, with the result being a patentpending 

pioneering baby carrier that fits seamlessly 

into an active lifestyle, redefining baby carrying through 

convenience, accessibility, comfort, support, and style. 

£169, www.seraphine.com 

BOTTLE WASHER: 

Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro® 

Never use a bottle brush again! 

Automatically washes, sterilises and dries 

bottles, pump parts and sippy cups. 

Powerfully washes with 20 high-pressure 

spray jets, using 50% less water than hand 

washing. No need to plumb in - just plug in 

and go. Kills 99.9% of germs with steam, 

then dries with HEPA-filtered hot air. £299, 

cheekyrascals.co.uk 

QualityRadiators. 

Delivered. 

.com 


A living and dining room 

transformation to inspire... 

Photography by Lucy Hartley-Saunders 


With many of us opting to 

improve instead of move, it’s never 

been more important to make our 

spaces work better for us. After 

extending a kitchen to the side 

of their house, homeowners Kate 

and Tom needed to reconfigure 

the existing kitchen and separate 

dining room into a space that 

reflected the flow of their lives. 

Opting to open the rooms 

completely, we caught up with 

them to discuss the process. 

In terms of the build, can you tell us 

what you’ve done? 

The living area occupies what was once 

the dining room, and the dining room was 

the teeny tiny kitchen. We prioritised a 

larger living space over a big dining area - 

I think many of us have moved away from 

the formal dining space, instead opting 

to have something move convivial. We 

have a large breakfast bar in the kitchen, 

which is in the new extension, so there are 

options for dining, and it made sense to 

just keep the space flowing. 

A structural steel was added between the 

old kitchen and dining room, then the old 

door from the hallway was blocked up, so 

the sofa could tuck neatly into that corner 

of the room. 

We pulled up all the floorboards to insulate 

fully underneath, and pulled down the 

ceiling to make the new electrical elements 

easier to install, and again improve the 

insulation. The two spaces were fully replastered. 

It was a lot of work, but actually, 

the walls weren’t in great condition before 

and now they are beautifully smooth. 

“We prioritised a larger 

living space over a big 

dining area - we wanted 

to have something move 

convivial.” 

What flooring was here before 

and why have you chosen the 

finish you have? 

This space has been transformed 

by the flooring, which was an 

easy-to-lay, fully DIY process. 

The flooring runs from the 

kitchen all the way through 

to the living area. It had to be 

something that would work with 

the underfloor heating, be able 

to stand up to the demands of 

kitchen life, be easy to clean 

with two dogs in the house and 

still give the space a feeling 

of warmth. I wanted to find a 

clean-looking tone which didn’t 

read too grey or too yellow, so 

settled on Canadian Nude Oak 

from Karndean - it’s a rigid-core 

product, so doesn’t need gluing 

down and just clicks together 

using the tongue and groove 

system. It can be laid over an 

existing floor too. 

That stove is amazing - why 

did you choose it? 

The existing fireplace had a small 

opening in it, and it looked like it 

would lend itself well to an inset 

stove. I’m not over-stating it 

when I say this stove is one of my 

favourite things I’ve ever had in 


▶ 

The doors were a real success story - we widened 

what was once the single kitchen door into a set 

of slimline double doors on parliament hinges so 

they can open right back to the wall. The glazing 

helps to ensure light can shine on this darker 

pocket of the house. We used reeded glass film to 

create an obscured effect for the utility door - still 

allowing light to shine, but without needing to see 

the detail of the appliances in there. 

▶ 

The dogs are clearly giving 

this feather-filled sofa 

their seal of approval. The 

space is styled with subtle 

patterns and textures, 

including lovely throws and 

cushions from homewares 

brand hauslife.co.uk 

▶ 

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

robust design. The visuals are spectacular - the range 

provides convergent airflow to keep the glass clean. 

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

choice - the Riva2 not only meets but exceeds Ecodesign 

efficiency standards, which aim to improve air quality by 

minimising the level of permitted emissions from wood 

burning products. For those in smoke control areas, as 

we are, all models are DEFRA exempt as standard for 

burning wood in urban areas without the need for an 

additional kit. 

▶ 

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

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

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

massive table that spent most of the year getting in the 

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

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

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

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

black lines just make sure that strong shade is present in 

each little zone. 


The ‘during’ photos are interesting to look back 

on - it really is a big transformation 

▶ 

“I really love this 

space. It feels 

welcoming and cosy, 

and that was always 

the goal. It’s not a 

formal seating area, 

but a place to retreat 

from daily life” 

▶ 

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

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

the focal point of the room. I wanted a smaller 

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

such a visual statement - I really loved the slimline 

look of this Mitchell & Brown QLED 4K Ultra HD 

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

a seven year warranty, which is so much longer 

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

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

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

it’s needed. 

my home. It offers instant cosiness, 

and such a beautiful focal point 

whether it’s roaring or gently glowing. 

That sofa looks incredibly 

comfortable… 

Oh, my, goodness! It is the most 

comfortable sofa I’ve ever sat on - 

it’s the Chaise Otto from 

sofa.com. My partner and I saw it 

in our local showroom and sat on 

it for nearly half an hour! We didn’t 

want to move, and it immediately 

transported us to lazy Sundays in 

front of the fire, stretched out on 

the chaise. It has feather-wrapped 

cushions which make it dreamily 

squishy, and the covers are 

removable for washing, which is 

essential with my penchant for beige 

alongside having two dogs…it also 

means we can update the look of it 

in a few years without replacing the 

whole sofa. 

Are there any other design 

elements you love? 

We’ve zoned this space with this 

huge rug from Ruggable - it’s actually 

machine washable so can stand 

up to daily life, spills, muddy dog 

paws and more! Then we have the 

amazing Lithe Audio ceiling speakers 

- one above the dining table and the 

other in the adjoining kitchen space, 

connected to one another. It’s lovely 

to be able to have music on whilst 

cooking, and then keep the ambient 

sounds on during dinner. I think they 

look really sleek too. 

How did you use black as an 

accent? 

The house already has blackframed 

windows, so it made sense 

to include this in the other design 

choices. By echoing the black in the 

stove surround, the internal doors 

and the dining chairs, it means your 


Scan me to 

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eye can move from vignette to vignette, without 

feeling like one element is really pulling focus. 

Is the cabinetry bespoke? 

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

we found the most cost-effective solution was using 

IKEA Metod upper cabinets on a frame on the floor, 

and then using some sturdier timber to make tops 

and shelves. By running the skirting boards around 

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

good tip for making things look bespoke. 

Is there anything you’d change? 

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

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

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

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

versatile enough to cater for our needs as they shift. 

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

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

Architectural, and they just exude quality. Family photos are 

styled alongside more conventional decor items, plants and pieces 

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

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

room feel cosy, with lamps and picture lights offering additional 

multi-level lighting. 

▶ 

STOCKIST INFORMATION: 

Sofa, Otto Chaise in Taupe Brushed Linen Cotton 

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

Alvah Extendable Round Dining Table and Chantilly 

Polyester Blend Upholstered Slat Back Parsons Chair both 

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

palioexpress.com; Neutral Abstract Sands Canvas Print, 

abstracthouse.com; Stovax Riva2, find your nearest supplier 

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

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

mitchellandbrown.co.uk; Reeded Glass Film, 

surfacedesigns.com; Heritage Clear Glazed Doors, 

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

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

litheaudio.com 


Sambuca Tumbled & Aged Limestone - Reminiscent of the 

original flagstone floor, the Sambuca limestone features soft 

shades of grey and blue along with hand cut tumbled edges and 

a brushed aged finish. Random length x 500 x 20mm size. Can 

go inside and out. £53.94m², terzettostone.co.uk 

Composite decking is a great choice for lowmaintenance, 

long-lasting decking. Envirobuild’s 

decking is also made from 90% recycled 

materials, using 100% wind farm energy. From 

£29.69 per 4m length, envirobuild.com 

GARDEN 

Glow Up 

There’s still time to transform your space for the 

summer - here are some beautiful products to help 

your transformation 

Solar Lanterns, 

on sale from 

£175 each, 


Porcelain works wonderfully in 

a variety of settings - it’s super 

hard-wearing and anti-slip, 

making it perfect for patios. 

Chorus White Italian Porcelain 

– Available In and Out. You can 

create a trade account online to 

receive reduced prices. Price from 

- £43m²., rflandscapeproducts. 

co.uk 

Lacock Lounge Set, 

currently on sale for 


Astor 8 Seat Square Dining 

Set, currently on sale for 

£974.99, envirobuild.com 


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timeless and 

traditional 

Designing a kitchen you will love for 

years to come... 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

When it comes to creating a timeless kitchen design, Aristocraft 

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

from the finest natural materials and individually tailored to enrich 

life in your home. 

Here, the expert designers from Aristocraft Kitchens & Bedrooms 

flagship showroom in Leamington Spa are sharing three tips for 

ensuring your kitchen will endure for years to come. 

CONSIDER YOUR COLOURS 

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

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

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

explore neutral, muted or heritage tones that have already proven 

they can stand the test of time. 

THINK AHEAD 

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

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

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

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

sink and fridge-freezer are within an easily accessible distance 

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

requiring bigger appliances, more seating, or further storage 

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

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

to securing longevity. 

FINISHING TOUCHES 

Although small, the finer details of your kitchen design are 

mighty when it comes to timeless style and functionality, such 

as your choice of worksurface, handle finishes and lighting. 

When deciding on a worksurface, consider the durability of a 

material as well as its aesthetic. Quartz for example, is known 

for its incredible resilience, and in a crisp, light finish it can truly 

brighten up a space. Pair with a warming timber for a welcoming, 

traditional look that will never go out of style. 

Visit the Leamington Spa showroom on Warwick Street for more 

advice on creating a timeless kitchen design you’ll love for years 

to come and to explore the full Aristocraft Kitchens & Bedrooms 

collection. 

www.aristocraftkitchensandbedrooms.co.uk 

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A BRITISH GARDEN CENTRES GUIDE 

Companion planting 

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

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

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

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

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

BEANS WITH SWEETCORN AND SQUASH 

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

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

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

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

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

to increase soil fertility and provides the sweetcorn and squash with 

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

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

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

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

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

GARLIC WITH ROSES 

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

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

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

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

plant as well as enhancing the rose’s fragrance. 

TOMATOES AND BASIL 

Planting basil near tomato plants can be beneficial as the aromatic 

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

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

tomato plants from insects like aphids and whiteflies. 

MARIGOLDS WITH VEGETABLES 

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

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

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

vegetable patch. We recommend planting French marigolds alongside 

peas, beans, potatoes, and sweetcorn. 

ONIONS WITH CARROTS 

Planting onions alongside carrots can be extremely beneficial for 

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

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

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

also maximises the use of your vegetable. 

HERBS AND BRASSICAS 

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

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

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

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

their strong scent. 

LAVENDER AND CHILLI 

Planting lavender and chilli together offers multiple benefits for your 

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

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

while also attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, 

enhancing pollination and resulting in a better chilli harvest. 

Hardware | Switches & Sockets | Lighting 

corston.com 


BOILING WATER TAP 

Designed in England and handcrafted 

in Italy, the Pronteau Propure 

Quad is a clean and contemporary 

tap that boasts sleek, sharp, and 

sophisticated lines. A tap that is 

packed full of style and engineering 

excellence, perfectly blending design 

with functionality whilst adding 

contemporary styling, symmetry, and 

personality to your kitchen. 

Built-in safety 

features ensure 

little hands 

are safe for 

complete peace 

of mind 

SLIMLINE 

DISHWASHER 

Together with 3D Zone Wash, the 

combined action of the powerful 

water jets from the upper and lower 

spray arms and the variable speed 

inverter motor, makes sure precisely 

the right amount of water is used 

throughout the selected basket for 

either 40% more cleaning power or 

40% more energy efficiency, depending on 

your needs. 

With enough capacity to hold up to 10 place 

settings and including a dedicated cutlery 

tray, this dishwasher is great for cleaning up 

after dinner parties and everyday mealtimes. 

Hotpoint HSFO 3T223 W X UK N Dishwasher, 

from £399, Energy Rating: E. 

It delivers 98° boiling water, 

alongside hot, cold and filtered water, 

to cater for all your household needs. 

From £899, see the full range at 

pronteau.co.uk 

Appliance 

GUIDE 

As items we use every single day, the appliances 

in our homes have to be practical, energyefficient 

and functional. We take a look at some 

upgrades you could make 

UPRIGHT VACUUM CLEANER 

The HL4 gives great performance, across all 

floor types with no loss of suction to deeply 

clean carpets and above-floor surfaces. 

It’s lightweight, easy to carry at under 5kg, 

and moves seamlessly from floors to other 

surfaces at the press of a single button. 

And gives you peace of mind with a FREE 

warranty up to 3 years. Hoover Upright 

Vacuum Cleaner with ANTI-TWIST - 

HL4, £199, hooverdirect.co.uk 

VENTING INDUCTION HOB 

This Hotpoint vented induction hob features a built-in vent hood 

that automatically removes vapours and odours. With Automatic 

Aspiration, the hood will routinely set the right power level to 

protect your kitchen by keeping it smelling and feeling fresh, so 

you can spend more time cooking and eating with your loved 

ones. The innovative Combi Due Zone allows you to combine 

two cooking zones into one extra-large space, which is easily 

controlled with Hotpoint’s unique touch control hobs. So, no 

matter what you are cooking, and how many people you are 

cooking for, Hotpoint has you covered. Hotpoint PVH92BUK 

Black 90cm Vented Hob, from £1899, Energy Rating: A 


Herald Lodge 

Luxury Care Home 

ALL INCLUSIVE FEE 

Join a social and welcoming community 

Enjoy good company and long-lasting companionship 

in our home. 

Residential & Dementia Care | Purpose Built Home | Person-Centred Care 

All Inclusive Fee | Daily Activities | Nutritious Food | Couples Welcome 

024 7671 3655 

100 Canley Road, Coventry CV5 6AR 

herald.lodge@idealcarehomes.co.uk | idealcarehomes.co.uk

NEW BEGINNINGS 

Choosing Retirement Accommodation 

As one approaches retirement 

age, the prospect of downsizing 

and moving into retirement 

accommodation becomes 

increasingly relevant. It’s a significant 

decision that requires careful 

planning. Here, we delve into some 

common considerations to help guide 

you through this transitional phase. 

LOCATION, LOCATION, 

LOCATION 

First and foremost, consider the 

location. Do you want to stay close 

to family and friends, or perhaps 

venture to a new area for a fresh 

start? Think about amenities nearby, 

such as shops, healthcare facilities, 

and recreational activities. Access 

to public transport is also crucial 

for maintaining independence 

and staying connected with the 

community. 

TYPES OF 

ACCOMMODATION 

Retirement accommodation 

comes in various forms, including 

independent living apartments, 

retirement villages, and assisted 

living facilities. Determine the 

level of support you require and 

choose accommodation that aligns 

with your needs and preferences. 

Independent living offers freedom 

and autonomy, while assisted living 

provides additional support with 

daily tasks and healthcare services. 

FINANCIAL 

CONSIDERATIONS 

Budgeting plays a vital role in the 

decision-making process. Consider 

the cost of accommodation, including 

any ongoing fees for maintenance, 

utilities, and services. Explore 

financial options such as selling your 

current property, renting, or accessing 

equity release schemes. 

FUTURE-PROOFING 

Planning for the future is essential 

when considering retirement 

accommodation. Think about how 

your needs may change over time 

and whether the accommodation 

can accommodate those changes. 

Look for features such as accessible 

design, mobility aids, and flexible 

care options. By future-proofing your 

choice, you can ensure that your 

retirement accommodation remains 

suitable and supportive in the years 

to come. 

HEALTHCARE AND 

SUPPORT SERVICES 

As we age, our healthcare 

needs may evolve. Consider 

proximity to healthcare facilities 

and the availability of support 

services. Assess whether the 

accommodation offers on-site 

healthcare professionals, emergency 

assistance, and access to additional 

care if needed. Prioritising access 

to healthcare can provide peace of 

mind and ensure your well-being as 

you age. 

LEGAL AND 

CONTRACTUAL 

CONSIDERATIONS 

Before finalising any agreements, 

thoroughly review the legal and 

contractual aspects of the retirement 

accommodation. Seek legal advice 

if necessary to understand the 

terms and obligations involved. Pay 

attention to details such as lease 

agreements, service contracts, 

and exit fees. It’s crucial to have 

clarity regarding your rights and 

responsibilities as a resident. 

SOCIAL AND 

RECREATIONAL 

OPPORTUNITIES 

Retirement accommodation often 

provides a range of social and 

recreational activities to enrich 

residents’ lives. From fitness 

classes and hobby groups to 

communal events and outings, 

these opportunities foster a sense 

of community. Take the time to 

explore the amenities and social 

offerings available within different to 

find the right fit for your lifestyle. 

EMBRACING THE 

JOURNEY 

Moving into retirement 

accommodation marks the 

beginning of a new chapter in 

life. Embrace this transition with 

optimism and open-mindedness. 

Take the time to explore different 

options, ask questions, and involve 

loved ones in the decision-making 

process. By carefully considering 

your needs and preferences, you 

can embark on this journey with 

confidence and enthusiasm. 

Choosing retirement accommodation 

requires thoughtful planning and 

consideration of various factors. By 

focusing on location, accommodation 

type, financial considerations, social 

opportunities, healthcare services, 

future-proofing, legal aspects, and 

embracing the journey, you can make 

an informed decision that aligns 

with your lifestyle and preferences. 

Remember, this transition is an 

opportunity for new beginnings and 

exciting possibilities. 


Wild Heart 

Willow Coffins 

We are rockwealth Leamington 

A Warwickshire IFA company driven by 

our evidence-based investing philosophy 

designed to maximise returns and deliver 

benefits for society and the environment 

We aim to provide everyone with the 

information they need to make sound 

financial decisions 

We are here to help..... 

CALL: 01926 969 010 

EMAIL: leamington@rockwealth.co.uk 

© 2023 RockWealth Leamington Ltd (930319) is an appointed representative of RockWealth 

LLP (610181) which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. 

Wild Heart Coffins is a small family 

run business handcrafting unique, 

beautiful willow coffins from their 

workshop just outside Leamington Spa 

in Warwickshire. 

Locally made willow coffins are one of 

the most environmentally sustainable 

choices for funerals. Unlike many other 

willow coffins available, we source 

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

Somerset Levels and Douglas Fir wood from sustainably 

managed forests in Wales. 

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

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

how comforting they found this experience. 

All Wild Heart Coffins are FFMA accredited, and are 

therefore suitable for cremation and all types of burial. 

www.wildheartcoffins.co.uk 

wildheartcoffins@gmail.com | 07787 435685 

Questions 

about care? 

We can help 

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

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

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

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

confident about the decision you make – whether that’s 

choosing a WCS care home, or one outside 

our group that’s more suited to your needs. 

Philip 

Rainsford 

Trusted 

Advisor 

Call me today to get answers 

to your questions. 

07802 728447 p.rainsford@wcs-care.co.uk 

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


Expert 

nursing 

care 

Our fully qualified nursing teams 

care for a wide range of complex 

conditions, providing your loved 

ones with a home for life. 

If you’re considering a care home, 

call 01926 953 276 or visit 

careuk.com/priors-house 

Trusted to care 

Priors House care home 

Leamington Spa

High quality care in 

Leamington Spa 

ADVERTISING FEATURE 

At Care UK’s Priors House care home 

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A lifestyle tailored to you 

At our ‘Outstanding’ CQC rated home our team is passionate 

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Everything under one roof 

Priors House offers luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, 

hair salon, cinema and beautiful landscaped gardens. 

Our chef-led kitchen teams are passionate about providing 

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

choice of nutritious and delicious dishes at every meal. 

Hear what relatives have to say 

We recognise the importance of friends and family staying 

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

And in our recent relative survey, 94% of families feel are 

impressed with the overall physical presentation of the inside of 

the home and 92% feel staff treating your relative with kindness, 

dignity and respect.^ 

Trust us to care 

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

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

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

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

To find out more about Priors House please call 01926 953 276 

Priors House care home 

Old Milverton Lane, Leamington Spa CV32 6RW 

Care.com/priors-house 

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

Research, an independent survey agency. 

YOUR LOCAL 

CONVEYANCING 

SOLICITORS 

OUR CONVEYANCING SERVICES 

Sale and purchase of freehold and leasehold properties 

Shared ownership leases 

Buy-to-let investment property 

Transfers of equity 

Equity release 

Buying new build properties 

Remortgages 

Whatever your property needs, our team of conveyancing specialists 

are committed to helping you every step of the way. We understand 

how important the transaction is and we never underestimate the 

need to get it right whilst making the process as simple for you as 

possible. 

01926 499889 www.bttj.com enquiries@bttj.com 

59 - 61 Coten End, Warwick, CV34 4NU 

Offices also in: Coventry, Balsall Common and Southam 

We also offer a full 

range of legal 

services to both 

individuals & 

businesses 


Established 1982 

Bringing stunning fitted living spaces to homes in the 

Midlands and across the UK for over four decades. 

LEAMINGTON 

SOLIHULL 

SUTTON COLDFIELD 

BRIERLEY HILL 

1909 Kitchens, CV32 4RJ 

01926895200 

1909 Kitchens, B92 8NF 

0121 516 9280 

1909 by Aristocraft, B73 6QB 

0121 312 1276 

1909 by Aristocraft, DY5 1TX 

01384 262 710 

SOLIHULL 

880 Old Lode Ln B92 8NF 

0121 516 9280 

1909.co.uk 

We also supply 1909 directly for DIY projects nationally. Enquire in store. 

BRIERLEY HILL 

Unit 21, Enterprise Trading, Pedmore Rd 

DY5 1TX | 01384 262 710 

LEAMINGTON SPA 

103 Warwick St CV32 4RJ 

01926 895 200 

www.aristocraftkitchensandbedrooms.co.uk

Leamington and Warwick Living May - Jun 2024

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