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18 19<br />
C O N T E N T S<br />
INTERIOR GARDEN DESIGN UPDATES<br />
Editor Katie Thomson<br />
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
Assistant Editor Kate Norris<br />
Publisher Sally Thomson<br />
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose<br />
Contributors<br />
Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,<br />
Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence<br />
JACK ITALIAN STEIN DISHES INTERVIEW 30 MINUTES<br />
& RECIPE<br />
22 26<br />
FOR ADVERTISING<br />
Account Manager Laura Rodney<br />
e laura@minervapublications.co.uk<br />
t 01225 984501<br />
Front Cover courtesy of Dobbies Garden Centre<br />
04<br />
COMPETITIONS<br />
17 27<br />
PLANTS FOR POLLINATORS<br />
PHIL VICKERY<br />
MINERVA PUBLICATIONS<br />
Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,<br />
Hilperton BA14 6JB<br />
t 01225 984 550<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
Printed on sustainably sourced paper.<br />
Please recycle this copy or pass it along<br />
when you are finished for someone else<br />
to enjoy.<br />
Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be<br />
held liable for any loss occasioned by<br />
failure of an advertisement to appear, or<br />
any damage or inconvenience caused by<br />
errors, omissions and misprints. No part of<br />
this publication may be reproduced without<br />
prior permission from the publishers.<br />
The opinions expressed within are not<br />
necessarily those of the publishers.<br />
A NOTE<br />
from the editor<br />
I’m sorry dear readers that<br />
we might have to be satisfied<br />
I had my first English<br />
with a six-day summer. We<br />
strawberry this week, and my<br />
word,<br />
were<br />
it<br />
hoping<br />
was beyond<br />
against<br />
delicious<br />
hope<br />
-<br />
for<br />
perfectly<br />
a scorcher<br />
sweet,<br />
- but<br />
it was<br />
aside<br />
a<br />
very<br />
from<br />
good<br />
an Indian<br />
advert<br />
summer<br />
for eating<br />
in<br />
seasonally. <strong>Sep</strong>tember, I’ve I’m tried not to feeling echo<br />
this hugely in all optimistic. my recent fruit and<br />
vegetable purchases, and it’s<br />
had Instead, a transformative we’ve decided effect on to<br />
my try and cooking give - you everything a dose just of<br />
tastes sunshine better in these - more pages vibrant, -<br />
needing from recipes less seasoning to interviews, and<br />
just garden overall and very home, tasty. hopefully<br />
there’s enough to occupy you<br />
I’m on the making next rainy the <strong>Aug</strong>ust most day. of<br />
cooking whilst I still have a<br />
kitchen First up - is mine our is ever-popular due to be<br />
ripped competition out in page, two weeks this time and<br />
with will lots be camping of goodies stove for and the<br />
air home frying and for garden. two months from<br />
there! I’ve already picked my<br />
kitchen, The garden but really it got me has thinking been a<br />
about focus in all this the edition other areas too, with that<br />
need a real-life updating transformation in my home. to If<br />
you help are inspire thinking your of a space, similar<br />
refresh, alongside please planning check out our for<br />
home spring pages (already!) this with edition some -<br />
they’re interesting full of bulb inspiring choices, trends<br />
and courtesy a few timeless of our classics. resident<br />
gardener Matt Biggs.<br />
We’ve also got some lovely<br />
editorial On the foodie on the front, best plants we’ve<br />
for got pollinators a lovely interview - it’s never with<br />
been<br />
chef<br />
so<br />
and<br />
important<br />
TV presenter<br />
to support<br />
Phil<br />
wildlife<br />
Vickery,<br />
in the<br />
alongside<br />
garden.<br />
some<br />
delicious Italian dishes ready<br />
The<br />
in only<br />
competition<br />
30 minutes.<br />
guide this<br />
issue is a bumper one - we<br />
have an outdoor furniture<br />
Latest studies have shown<br />
set from Bramblecrest worth<br />
that the UK will need a huge<br />
nearly £3,000, plus a cordless<br />
influx of carers to cater for<br />
lawnmower worth £679 to get<br />
its aging population, so with<br />
that garden in shape. This,<br />
that in mind, we look at ways<br />
plus a lot more makes it well<br />
worth<br />
to stay<br />
a<br />
well<br />
look<br />
as<br />
and<br />
we<br />
an<br />
age.<br />
enter!<br />
We<br />
The<br />
will<br />
summer<br />
be back<br />
holidays<br />
again<br />
are<br />
in<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust<br />
upon us,<br />
- I’ll<br />
but<br />
be fully<br />
I’m<br />
rebooted<br />
sure it<br />
and will be recharged back to into school summer and<br />
mode. business See as you usual then! before we<br />
know it. All that’s left for me<br />
is to wish you a wonderful<br />
summer - we will see<br />
Katie<br />
you<br />
again in the autumn!<br />
Katie<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3
Time<br />
COMPETITION<br />
Find out more about entering our competitions online<br />
at minervamagazines.co.uk/competitions - join our<br />
Competition Club and enter over 60 comps a year for<br />
only £12.99! Or enter for free by post.<br />
All the below close on 25th <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2024</strong><br />
WIN A STELLAR VERVE<br />
COOKWARE BUNDLE WORTH<br />
OVER £300!<br />
Want to cook more healthily this<br />
summer? With new cookware range,<br />
Stellar Verve, you can prepare your<br />
favourite recipes and reduce the fat<br />
thanks to its responsive non-stick<br />
technology that requires little to no oil.<br />
To celebrate the launch of Verve, we’ve<br />
teamed up with Stellar to give one lucky<br />
reader the chance to win a bundle of<br />
Stellar Verve goodies including a 26cm<br />
Frying Pan, 28cm Wok, 26cm Grill Pan,<br />
all worth over £300.<br />
Available at www.stellar.co.uk.<br />
Keyword ‘Stellar’<br />
WIN A BBQ TRADITIONALIST’S<br />
TREAT BY CHAR-BROIL<br />
WORTH OVER £300<br />
Anyone who loves the smell and taste<br />
of charcoal BBQ will love the new Char-<br />
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with its large 3,665cm2 cooking area<br />
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include a temperature gauge on the lid,<br />
adjustable smoke stack and charcoal<br />
trays and an integrated bottle opener<br />
for keeping the chef hydrated! Charcoal<br />
L (£319.99 RRP) is available online and<br />
at garden centres nationwide.<br />
Keyword ‘Char-Broil BBQ’<br />
WIN THE OPINEL BBQ SET<br />
This timeless companion, available from<br />
Berry Useful, comprises a 16cm steel<br />
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Available from berryuseful.co.uk<br />
Keyword ‘Opinel’<br />
Essentials Lace B<br />
The Essentials Lace femin<br />
this season’s fashion shad<br />
Whether as loungewear<br />
dress – the understated b<br />
a delicate silk band, is su<br />
their removable pads pro<br />
with four hook and eye c<br />
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second skin!<br />
This great style also come<br />
even more variety to you<br />
their underwear to be sty<br />
Available from www.stud<br />
Sizes S/ M/L/XL<br />
WIN A TRUSTED BONA<br />
PREMIUM SPRAY MOP TO<br />
NURTURE FLOORS<br />
Bring out the beauty of wood and hard<br />
surface floors with the trusted Bona<br />
Premium cleaning system. The durable<br />
Premium Spray Mop and washable,<br />
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remove 99% of bacteria from your<br />
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Mops for Wood or Hard Surface Floors<br />
including 4L cleaning solution to win.<br />
Shop online at www.bona.com<br />
WIN THE BRAND NEW<br />
HOZELOCK AUTO REEL MOBILE<br />
AND BOKASHI COMPOSTER<br />
WITH KITCHEN CADDY<br />
Hozelock is giving away the ultimate<br />
gardening bundle, including the<br />
brand-new Auto Reel Mobile, Bokashi<br />
Composter and Kitchen Caddy, worth<br />
over £340.<br />
Built to cover all of your composting<br />
and watering needs, this bundle is the<br />
perfect solution to help your garden<br />
thrive this summer and includes<br />
Hozelock’s most premium hose storage<br />
solution.<br />
WIN ONE OF THREE<br />
UNDERWEAR SETS<br />
Introducing the Essentials Lace bralette<br />
from ANITA: comfort meets style!<br />
Perfect for lounging or adding a touch of<br />
elegance to any outfit. With adjustable<br />
back closures and removable pads, it<br />
offers a flattering fit. Plus, it’s wire-free<br />
and breathable, making it feel like a<br />
second skin! Pair with the matching<br />
Essentials Lace brief for the ultimate style<br />
and comfort combo!<br />
If you can’t wait to win then grab yours<br />
from www.studiolingerieandresort.com.<br />
Keyword ‘Bona’<br />
Keyword ‘Hozelock’<br />
Keyword ‘Anita’<br />
For more informatio<br />
4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Outdoor interactive<br />
science fun!<br />
13th July to 2nd <strong>Sep</strong>t<br />
Bu terflies<br />
Snap Cards<br />
Start <strong>2024</strong> off with new challenges!<br />
Fitness for all ages and levels!<br />
Whether it be a circuit class outdoors or an Indoor<br />
beginners Pilates class, the aim is to get fit and healthy,<br />
strong and supple but also enjoy doing it!<br />
We believe that exercise is a social occasion, but that hard<br />
work goes hand in hand with it!<br />
Book now<br />
winchestersciencecentre.org<br />
Contact Andy at Macks Fitness<br />
Mobile: 07920 282502<br />
Email: info@macksfitness.co.uk<br />
HAMPSHIRE<br />
open studios<br />
17th-26th <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2024</strong><br />
With 300 arts & craft venues to visit free of charge<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 5
AC Models<br />
We sell brand new and near-new model trains,<br />
slot cars, sets and diecast toys, including<br />
Scalextric, Hornby, Bachmann, Peco etc. We<br />
also have an extensive range of Plastic Kits.<br />
Open now upstairs is a new Radio Control<br />
Department, Games Workshop and our<br />
Scalextric stock.<br />
9 High Street, Eastleigh, Hants SO50 5LB<br />
info@acmodelseastleigh.co.uk 02380 610100<br />
t: 01794 590022<br />
e: admin@ggclimbing.com<br />
www.ggclimbing.com<br />
IJ @ggclimbing<br />
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• Not just for kids<br />
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Unit 34, Romsey Industrial Estate<br />
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Opening: Mon-Fri I 0am-1 0pm Saturday I 0am-7pm Sunday I 2pm-7pm<br />
6 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
How to protect your<br />
family’s financial future<br />
Protecting your family from financial difficulties isn’t just<br />
about having money to provide for the long term. It’s also<br />
about ensuring your loved ones are provided for should<br />
the worst happen.<br />
When it comes to financial protection, the options can<br />
seem overwhelming. However, consulting a financial<br />
adviser can help you choose the right cover for your<br />
personal circumstances.<br />
Life insurance<br />
Life insurance pays out a lump sum on death, which<br />
could be used to pay off the mortgage and provide a cash<br />
buffer. The cost of the cover will depend on factors like<br />
your age and health.<br />
If you have children or an outstanding mortgage, you<br />
should consider a life insurance policy. There are several<br />
different types of policy to choose from: whole of life<br />
insurance, level term insurance, and decreasing term<br />
insurance. An adviser can help you decide on the right<br />
one for you.<br />
Income protection<br />
Income protection can provide a tax-free income if you<br />
are unable to work because of an accident or illness.<br />
You can choose when the payments start, such as six<br />
or 12 months, with longer deferral periods resulting in<br />
lower premiums.<br />
Income protection can be particularly valuable for the selfemployed<br />
who do not have any cover through an employer.<br />
You can choose from short-term cover to pay an income<br />
over one or two years and long-term cover to run until<br />
retirement, or when the policy ends, whichever is sooner.<br />
Critical illness<br />
Critical illness cover pays out a lump sum on diagnosis<br />
of critical illnesses covered by the policy, such as heart<br />
attack, stroke and cancer. The sum could be used to pay<br />
off debts, cover outgoings such as school fees, or to<br />
adapt living arrangements.<br />
You might want to consider this cover if you don’t have<br />
enough savings to cover you if you were to become<br />
seriously ill, or you don’t have an employee benefits<br />
package.<br />
Family income benefit<br />
Instead of paying out a single lump sum, this policy<br />
provides a regular, tax-free income for a set period, such<br />
as 20 years. It’s considered a relatively inexpensive form<br />
of life cover.<br />
Private medical insurance<br />
Private medical insurance (PMI) will pay for the cost<br />
of private healthcare and could enable you to see a<br />
specialist more quickly than under the NHS. If you don’t<br />
have PMI through work, you can pay monthly or annual<br />
premiums for a policy.<br />
We live and work local to you. We would be<br />
delighted to help you and your family achieve<br />
financial clarity and stability.<br />
46 Jewry Street,<br />
<strong>Winchester</strong> SO23 8RY<br />
Adam Jarvis<br />
Head of Office –<br />
Senior Investment Manager<br />
E: adam.jarvis@brewin.co.uk<br />
Kirsty Simpson<br />
Financial Planner<br />
Divisional Director<br />
E: kirsty.simpson@brewin.co.uk<br />
T: 01962 798000<br />
W: brewin.co.uk/our-offices/winchester<br />
The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. This does<br />
not constitute tax or legal advice. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be<br />
subject to change in the future. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a<br />
particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further<br />
investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.<br />
RBC Brewin Dolphin is a trading name of Brewin Dolphin Limited. Brewin Dolphin Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority<br />
(Financial Services Register reference number 124444) and regulated in Jersey by the Financial Services Commission. Registered Office; 12 Smithfield Street,<br />
London, EC1A 9BD. Registered in England and Wales company number: 2135876.<br />
RBCBDM5243_0624_0.1
All change?<br />
for the independent school sector...<br />
These are interesting times for the independent school sector.<br />
They are contending with ongoing<br />
financial challenges, such as rising<br />
energy bills and teacher pension<br />
costs. They’re also navigating topical<br />
education issues, including reforms<br />
to the relationships, sex and health<br />
education (RHSE) curriculum and<br />
calls to ban mobile phones in the<br />
classroom. Perhaps most importantly,<br />
they are preparing for Labour’s policy<br />
to scrap business rates and add VAT<br />
to fees – something that creeps ever<br />
closer following the recent change in<br />
government.<br />
Independent schools are a vital part<br />
of the education system, and they<br />
contribute significantly to their local<br />
communities. They widen access<br />
through life-transforming bursary<br />
schemes; last year, schools provided<br />
over £1bn in fee assistance, of which<br />
over £500m was means-tested. They<br />
also collaborate with neighbouring<br />
state schools and local organisations<br />
to provide educational opportunities<br />
for children and young people. These<br />
mutually beneficial partnerships take<br />
many forms, ranging from academic<br />
programmes to those specialising in<br />
music, sports, and careers advice. By<br />
creating these links, schools address<br />
gaps in provision and discover new<br />
ways of doing things in their own<br />
schools.<br />
Labour’s election victory has<br />
considerable implications for<br />
independent schools, which lie at the<br />
heart of the party’s education policy.<br />
Both Bridget Phillipson and Sir Keir<br />
Starmer have reiterated Labour’s<br />
intention to add VAT to school fees<br />
– which would affect all independent<br />
schools – and take away business<br />
rates relief for those with charitable<br />
status. The former would hit some<br />
harder than others; small schools,<br />
faith schools, military families and<br />
children with special educational needs<br />
and disabilities (SEND) are among<br />
those most vulnerable to its effects.<br />
Many families would be priced out of<br />
independent schools, forcing those<br />
already operating on tight margins<br />
into deficit or even closure. Most<br />
independent schools do not have big<br />
surpluses and what they do have they<br />
reinvest back into education for their<br />
students and the local community.<br />
The policy would also have unintended<br />
consequences for the state sector, as<br />
children displaced from independent<br />
schools would seek places in already<br />
stretched state schools. Recent reports<br />
suggest there are a number of local<br />
authorities across the country that<br />
simply do not have the capacity within<br />
their state schools to admit an influx of<br />
pupils from the independent sector.<br />
While the business rates relief element<br />
of Labour’s plans would not apply<br />
to all independent schools, it does<br />
have implications for the charity<br />
sector as a whole. It would create<br />
a two-tier charity system, setting a<br />
worrying precedent that any charity<br />
seen as ideologically opposed to<br />
the government of the day could be<br />
subject to extra tax.<br />
It is still unclear when exactly these<br />
policies would come into effect, or<br />
whether those most at risk would be<br />
exempted from VAT on fees (pupils<br />
with an Education, Health and Care<br />
Plan are currently the only group to be<br />
protected from the rise). In the face of<br />
this uncertainty, independent schools<br />
will continue to do what they do best;<br />
provide a well-rounded education<br />
for their children, as well as valuable<br />
support for their local communities.<br />
ISC will do all it can to support schools<br />
in that endeavour, using our collective<br />
voice to raise awareness of the crucial<br />
role independent schools play in the<br />
wider education system.<br />
We all want to see a well-funded,<br />
thriving state sector. We welcome<br />
the opportunity to work with the new<br />
Labour government to build upon the<br />
great work already being done in the<br />
sector to deliver our shared goal of a<br />
great education for every child.<br />
To learn more about the Independent<br />
Schools Council and the diverse range<br />
of schools within the sector, visit<br />
isc.co.uk. For examples of inspiring<br />
partnerships taking place between<br />
state and independent schools, go to<br />
schoolstogether.org.<br />
8 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Year 6 Activities Morning for Year 7 entry Saturday 21st <strong>Sep</strong>tember<br />
The Gregg Prep Open Morning Wednesday 25th <strong>Sep</strong>tember<br />
The Gregg (Senior) Open Evening Thursday 3rd October<br />
www.thegreggschool.org For details about • registrar@thegreggschools.org our events, please contact the Registrar: • 02380 472133<br />
registrar@thegreggschools.org • 02380 472133 • www.thegreggschools.org<br />
Discover a<br />
new passion<br />
Adult leisure courses in:<br />
Ceramics<br />
Creative & Script Writing<br />
Drawing & Painting<br />
Floristry<br />
French<br />
German<br />
Italian<br />
Meditation<br />
Mythology<br />
Spanish<br />
Philosophy<br />
Photography<br />
Pilates & Yoga<br />
Resin Casting<br />
Sewing & Textiles<br />
Silversmithing<br />
Tai Chi<br />
Willow-weaving<br />
...and more!<br />
Open Event<br />
Wed 4th <strong>Sep</strong>t<br />
4.30-7pm<br />
Stoney Lane Campus<br />
Scan the<br />
code to<br />
find out<br />
more<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 9
Your Leading 11-18 Co-Ed Independent<br />
Day School in Hampshire<br />
invites you to our<br />
Friday 4 October | 6pm-8.30pm<br />
Book Online at kes.school
BEGIN A FRESH<br />
NEW CHAPTER...<br />
with a great start, a captivating<br />
middle and a rewarding end<br />
OPEN<br />
DAYS<br />
Pre-Prep - Friday 27 <strong>Sep</strong>tember<br />
- Saturday l ohcS 5 October elohW<br />
Use QR code to book<br />
The Pilgrims’ School, <strong>Winchester</strong><br />
www.thepilgrims-school.co.uk<br />
01962 854189<br />
admissions@pilgrims-school.co.uk
This uber cute cuddly sleep aid mimics<br />
the comfort of the womb with soft red<br />
melatonin inducing glow and selection<br />
of ‘pink and white noise’ soothing<br />
sounds, including an actual recording of<br />
a heartbeat and womb, to lull newborns<br />
and toddlers into a peaceful sleep. Ewan<br />
Deluxe, £39.99, sweetdreamers.co.uk<br />
The cosy SnüzPouch<br />
sleeping bag is a practical<br />
and pretty baby sleeping<br />
bag. With a handy nappy<br />
change zip to make<br />
changes quick and easy,<br />
it reduces disturbance for<br />
the most peaceful snooze.<br />
From £29.95, snuz.co.uk<br />
Friendly bacteria for little tummies.<br />
Kendamil Pro-Comfort Baby<br />
Drops are designed to support the<br />
development and balance of your<br />
little one’s gut microbiome from birth<br />
- suitable for breast feeding or bottle<br />
feeding. £14.99, kendamil.com<br />
Baby<br />
SHOWER<br />
The baby shower may be a US import, but<br />
it’s increasingly popular over here. Whether<br />
you buy a gift from you or club together for<br />
some larger gifts, we’ve got a gift edit that’s<br />
sure to delight the parent-to-be<br />
With a soft playmat, a musical<br />
piano, a tummy-time bolster, a seat<br />
positioner, and hanging toys, your<br />
little one will never run out of things<br />
to do. This gym also supports your<br />
baby’s developmental skills through<br />
play. £60, Argos & Verbaudet<br />
The unique towel, attaches to the parent/<br />
carer like an apron, allowing them to be<br />
hands free (and keeping them dry), while<br />
lifting baby out of the bath. From £34.99,<br />
sweetdreamers.co.uk<br />
SnoozeShade allows new parents to get out and about<br />
with minimum disturbance to baby in those early days!<br />
The original breathable, blackout sun and sleep solution<br />
for prams, buggies, car seats and travel cots, is a simpler,<br />
easier, lightweight and secure alternative to a draped coat<br />
or blankets. From £19.99, snoozeshade.com<br />
Moses baskets provide a safe and<br />
secure place for your baby to spend<br />
their first six months as they grow and<br />
develop. Little Green Sheep’s beautifully<br />
crafted Moses basket range is made<br />
using palm leaf, a natural material free<br />
from chemicals and nasties. From<br />
£124.99, thelittlegreensheep.co.uk<br />
The latest launches from Bravado<br />
include the gorgeous new V-Neck<br />
Maternity and Nursing Bra and the<br />
ultra-stretch support Cross Over<br />
Panties. Made with recycled nylon<br />
for a stretchy, adaptive fit, they<br />
provide flattering feminine cuts<br />
and support that accommodates<br />
a growing belly and beyond. From<br />
£26, uk.bravadodesigns.com
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Cherish Every Chapter<br />
A GUIDE TO CREATING<br />
YOUR PERFECT WEDDING<br />
FOR 20%<br />
Over the years, we’ve learned a lot about creating<br />
unforgettable celebrations. Here’s what we’ve learned<br />
about weddings and the truly special venue, Penton<br />
Park. By Billy and Ryan, Penton Park, Hampshire...<br />
OFF HIRE<br />
FEE QUOTE:<br />
PENTON20<br />
Valid for all events booked<br />
and confirmed before<br />
31st December<br />
<strong>2024</strong><br />
Nestled in the picturesque countryside<br />
of Penton Mewsey, Penton Park is not<br />
an ordinary wedding venue but a house<br />
full of light and magic, where every event<br />
becomes a cherished chapter. This year<br />
marks a decade since this historic manor<br />
hosted its first wedding, and we are<br />
proud to lead it into another ten glorious<br />
years.<br />
We first met Penton in the autumn—the<br />
crisp air filled with the scent of a bonfire<br />
and the rustle of fallen leaves. Our<br />
welcome was the scent of late blooming<br />
wisteria, which framed the Tuscan Porch.<br />
From its origins in the late 18th century to<br />
serving as a convalescent home during<br />
WWII, Penton Park has always been<br />
full of stories. Even those of romantic<br />
rebellion like the legend of St. Benedict’s<br />
Convent students sneaking out through a<br />
hidden tunnel.<br />
Planning a wedding at Penton Park is<br />
like stepping into a fairy tale. We recently<br />
joined the team at this historic manor to<br />
bring exceptional catering and wedding<br />
planning services in-house. Between us<br />
we bring a wealth of experience to event<br />
management and catering, and we share<br />
a passion for fresh, exclusive, and locally<br />
sourced produce.<br />
What we love most about Penton is that<br />
we can offer you a bespoke, unhurried<br />
wedding experience—Penton Park is<br />
your home for the weekend. We know<br />
that the run up to weddings are often<br />
fraught, but at Penton both before and<br />
after the ceremony we can offer you<br />
the chance to really enjoy those golden<br />
‘in-between’ moments that make up the<br />
memories, even those you have to look<br />
back at before you can laugh— like one<br />
of our past grooms who left his room key<br />
on the other side of town, with the rings<br />
“safely” locked in his room. Luckily one of<br />
our quick-thinking staff members jumped<br />
into a car to get the keys and save the<br />
day, so the ceremony could proceed!<br />
Forgetful grooms aside, one of the most<br />
important things we’ve learned is you<br />
should never feel rushed. This is your<br />
day, and it should be everything you<br />
dreamed of.<br />
EXPERT TIPS FOR YOUR<br />
SPECIAL DAY<br />
Choose Positive, Upbeat Suppliers<br />
Your wedding day should be filled with<br />
laughter and excitement, so work with<br />
people who share that enthusiasm.<br />
The right suppliers will enhance the<br />
atmosphere and help everything run<br />
smoothly.<br />
HIRE A VIDEOGRAPHER<br />
If budget allows, hire a videographer.<br />
Photographs are wonderful, but a video<br />
lets you relive the emotions and moments<br />
of your special day. Seeing your wedding<br />
play out again over the passing years can<br />
be an incredibly moving experience.<br />
INVEST IN FOOD AND DRINK<br />
Work with a caterer who can create<br />
bespoke menus. Whether it’s a full threecourse<br />
meal or relaxed feasting tables,<br />
great food and drink not only leaves<br />
a lasting impression but creates joyful<br />
guests.<br />
MAKE THE DAY YOUR OWN<br />
Select a venue that offers the time,<br />
space, and flexibility for you to create the<br />
day that you and your partner want. This<br />
is going to be one of the most important<br />
days of your life; you don’t want to be<br />
rushed along a wedding conveyor belt.<br />
ENJOY A LONG WEEKEND<br />
Extend your celebration into a leisurely<br />
long weekend. From pre-wedding<br />
preparations to post-wedding brunches,<br />
savour each moment without feeling<br />
hurried.<br />
Remember your wedding day should<br />
reflect your unique story. As you take the<br />
next step into your new adventure, make<br />
sure it really feels like you.<br />
For more information on planning your<br />
perfect event at Penton Park, visit<br />
www.pentonpark.co.uk, email events@<br />
pentonpark.co.uk, or call 01264 772400.<br />
For 20% off hire fee quote: Penton20<br />
(Valid for all events booked and confirmed<br />
before 31st December<strong>2024</strong>)<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 13
Plan your dream wedding<br />
Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. For<br />
many couples, navigating the nuances of wedding planning requires a<br />
blend of tradition and modernity, along with careful attention to detail.<br />
Here are some essential tips to help you plan your perfect day.<br />
Planning a wedding can be an exciting<br />
yet overwhelming experience. For<br />
many couples, navigating the nuances<br />
of wedding planning requires a blend<br />
of tradition and modernity, along with<br />
careful attention to detail. Here are some<br />
essential tips to help you plan your<br />
perfect day.<br />
Set a Budget and Stick to It<br />
One of the first steps in wedding planning<br />
is establishing a realistic budget.<br />
Weddings can be costly, and it’s crucial to<br />
know how much you’re willing to spend.<br />
Make a list of all potential expenses,<br />
including venue, catering, attire, flowers,<br />
photography, and entertainment. Allocate<br />
a portion of your budget to each category<br />
and try to stick to it. Remember to set<br />
aside a contingency fund for unexpected<br />
expenses.<br />
Choose the Right Venue<br />
The venue sets the tone for your<br />
wedding. Whether you prefer a historic<br />
manor house, a rustic barn, or a chic<br />
city hotel, make sure it reflects your<br />
style and accommodates your guest<br />
list. Many venues offer all-inclusive<br />
packages, which can simplify planning.<br />
When visiting potential venues, consider<br />
the location, capacity, and available<br />
amenities. Don’t forget to check if the<br />
venue is available on your preferred date.<br />
Plan the Ceremony<br />
Decide whether you want a religious<br />
or civil ceremony. If you opt for a<br />
church wedding, ensure you meet all<br />
the requirements set by the Church of<br />
England or your respective denomination.<br />
For civil ceremonies, contact your local<br />
registry office to book an appointment.<br />
Consider personalising your ceremony<br />
with readings, music, and vows that are<br />
14 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk<br />
meaningful to you both.<br />
Prioritise the Guest List<br />
Creating a guest list can be one of the<br />
most challenging aspects of wedding<br />
planning. Start by making a list of<br />
immediate family and close friends,<br />
then gradually add extended family and<br />
other friends. Be mindful of your venue’s<br />
capacity and your budget. It’s often<br />
helpful to have an A-list (must-invite) and<br />
a B-list (nice-to-invite), which can help<br />
manage numbers if you need to make<br />
cuts.<br />
Hire Trusted Vendors<br />
Vendors play a crucial role in bringing<br />
your wedding vision to life. Research and<br />
book reputable vendors early, including<br />
caterers, florists, photographers, and<br />
DJs or bands. Reading reviews and<br />
asking for recommendations can help<br />
you find reliable professionals. Schedule<br />
consultations to discuss your ideas<br />
and ensure they understand your<br />
expectations.<br />
Plan Your Attire<br />
Choosing wedding attire is a personal<br />
and often emotional experience. Brides<br />
should start shopping for their dress<br />
at least six to eight months before the<br />
wedding to allow time for fittings and<br />
alterations. Grooms and groomsmen<br />
should also select their suits or attire<br />
well in advance. Consider the season<br />
and venue when choosing your outfits to<br />
ensure comfort and appropriateness.<br />
Organise the Details<br />
Attention to detail can make your<br />
wedding truly memorable. Consider<br />
elements such as invitations, seating<br />
plans, favours, and decorations.<br />
Incorporate personal touches that<br />
reflect your relationship, such as a<br />
themed wedding cake or customised<br />
centrepieces. Don’t forget practical<br />
details like transportation and<br />
accommodation for guests, especially if<br />
your venue is in a remote location.<br />
Manage the Day Itself<br />
On your wedding day, the last thing you<br />
want is to be stressed about logistics.<br />
Hire a day-of coordinator or designate<br />
a trusted friend or family member to<br />
manage the schedule, coordinate<br />
with vendors, and handle any issues<br />
that arise. This allows you to focus on<br />
enjoying your special day.<br />
Embrace Tradition and Personal<br />
Touches<br />
Weddings often incorporate traditional<br />
elements, such as the bride wearing<br />
“something old, something new,<br />
something borrowed, and something<br />
blue”. However, don’t be afraid to infuse<br />
your wedding with personal touches that<br />
reflect your unique style and relationship.<br />
Balancing tradition with modern trends<br />
can create a memorable and meaningful<br />
celebration.<br />
Enjoy the Journey<br />
Finally, remember that wedding planning<br />
is a journey. While it can be stressful<br />
at times, it’s also an opportunity to<br />
strengthen your bond and create<br />
lasting memories. Stay organised, keep<br />
communication open with your partner,<br />
and don’t lose sight of what the day is<br />
truly about – celebrating your love and<br />
commitment to each other.<br />
By following these tips, couples can<br />
plan a wedding that is both beautiful and<br />
uniquely theirs.
Your Special Day …. Made by us!<br />
From a simple celebration to an elegant extravaganza.<br />
Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa is the perfect setting for your special day.<br />
Your wedding is important to us, and all of our packages are specially designed and can be personally<br />
tailored to suit all seasons and budgets.<br />
Our most popular package “The whirlwind” is an All-Inclusive package which includes all the essentials for<br />
your wedding day, such as, an arrival drinks reception, three course wedding breakfast with a glass of<br />
wine, a glass of fizz to toast, an evening buffet and DJ. White table linen and napkins, chair covers and<br />
sash, floral table arrangements per table, bridal bouquet and button holes and a three tier wedding cake<br />
are also included.<br />
Prices start from only £7,495 for 50 day guests and 75 evening guests.<br />
If you are newly engaged, and looking for a fabulous venue to celebrate your wedding day, please book<br />
an appointment to come and see us. Our wedding team are waiting to turn your wedding dreams<br />
into a reality.<br />
WEDDING OFFER<br />
When you book your wedding with us, we will give you 5 guest bedrooms including breakfast for the night<br />
of your wedding, for those most important to you on your wedding day.<br />
We will also give you Canapes to have with your arrival drinks reception.<br />
(This offer applies to newly booked weddings only, using this advert)<br />
Offer valid until October <strong>2024</strong><br />
(Reference: WED24BPH)<br />
To make your wedding a reality call our sales office now and speak with one of our event executives.<br />
T: 01489 778402 or E: maria.privett@macdonald-hotels.co.uk<br />
Macdonald Botley Park Hotel & Spa, <strong>Winchester</strong> Road, Boorley Green, Botley, Hampshire, SO32 2UA
<strong>Winchester</strong><br />
Your wedding. Your rules.<br />
From an intimate gathering to a big family celebration, we put ourselves<br />
in your shoes to create a wedding as individual as you are.<br />
Enquire now on 01962 670 700<br />
<strong>Winchester</strong><br />
Winter Wedding Wonderland<br />
Celebrate the most wonderful day of your life at the most picturesque<br />
time of the year with a Winter Wedding at voco <strong>Winchester</strong>.<br />
Special Winter Wedding Packages from Just £4,950<br />
Enquire now on 01962 670 700
A BRITISH<br />
STAPLE<br />
TV presenter and author Phil Vickery<br />
has been an integral part of the This<br />
Morning family for nearly 25 years and is<br />
firmly regarded as one of Britain’s favourite<br />
chefs.<br />
Here Sally Thomson catches up<br />
with Phil to have a chat<br />
about food and<br />
the delights of<br />
enjoying good<br />
dishes...<br />
THIS MORNING I WATCHED A<br />
LITTLE SHORT VIDEO OF YOU AND<br />
YOUR DAUGHTER WINNIE. YOU<br />
WERE HAVING A CHAT ABOUT<br />
THE JOYS OF FRESH PRODUCE IN<br />
THE SPRINGTIME, IN PARTICULAR<br />
TALKING ABOUT ASPARAGUS,<br />
RASPBERRIES AND STRAWBERRIES<br />
AND HOW MUCH YOU LOVE THIS<br />
TIME OF YEAR.<br />
I do love it and Jersey royals are a<br />
favourite of mine in the first salad.<br />
I love all that sort of stuff and as a<br />
seasoned chef, which I’ve always been,<br />
we were always taught fresh is best.<br />
SO YOU WERE ALWAYS INTERESTED<br />
IN REGIONAL, LOCAL PRODUCE?<br />
Yes, I’ve always cooked that way<br />
my whole life. There is something<br />
absurd about eating a raspberry from<br />
Guatemala in February. I like to cook<br />
seasonal.<br />
YES, I FEEL EXACTLY THE SAME AS<br />
THAT. I LIKE TO TRY AND GROW MY<br />
OWN PRODUCE AS WELL. I’VE GOT<br />
RASPBERRY CANES IN THE GARDEN<br />
WHICH I ENJOY.<br />
I have a beautiful new kitchen garden<br />
at home, I am enjoying the new crops I<br />
am growing this year.<br />
SO DO YOU LIVE OUT IN THE WILDS?<br />
Yes, I live in the country.<br />
WELL, WE’RE VERY LUCKY. WE’VE<br />
GOT LOADS OF PHEASANTS IN<br />
OUR GARDEN BUT I COULDN’T DO<br />
ANYTHING WITH THEM. I JUST LET<br />
THEM WANDER AROUND.<br />
Oh, I like to eat them. It’s nice to look<br />
forward to the first game in season:<br />
the first pheasant, or the first roe buck.<br />
Bear in mind, when I was a young chef,<br />
there were so many pheasants around<br />
that they were bred as game birds.<br />
But it’s always been very important to<br />
me that we cook in season. And that<br />
will never change. I was born up in<br />
Folkestone in Kent. I’ve always had<br />
sort of an outdoorsy life. I’ve done a<br />
variety of things and I’m largely selftaught.<br />
YOU SPENT QUITE A LOT OF TIME<br />
IN TAUNTON, DIDN’T YOU, AT THE<br />
CASTLE HOTEL?<br />
I did. Yeah, that’s really where I made<br />
my name. I was told “Oh, you’re a<br />
good lad, but you probably won’t<br />
get the job at the Castle.” I was like,<br />
“Okay, fair enough, but I’ll help you.”<br />
Meanwhile I had nine very happy years<br />
there (at The Castle), and I was very<br />
lucky.<br />
SO WOULD YOU EVER LIKE TO HAVE<br />
YOUR OWN COOKERY PROGRAMME<br />
OR A SLOT?<br />
I’m happy working on This Morning.<br />
I’ve been all around the world on This<br />
Morning. I’ve cooked on the Great<br />
Barrier Reef. I’ve cooked outside the<br />
Sydney Opera House. I’ve been all over<br />
India, Namibia, Norway, Alaska and I’ve<br />
been to Peru. I’ve been very lucky.<br />
SO WHAT’S GOING TO BE YOUR GO-<br />
TO DISH FOR THIS EVENING? WHAT<br />
ARE YOU GOING TO COOK FOR<br />
YOURSELF?<br />
This evening, I might have some Arctic<br />
char. It’s like an oily fish, a bit like<br />
salmon. It’s lovely, a beautiful fish, they<br />
do have a very mild salmon flavour.<br />
Perhaps with some Jersey Royals and<br />
some roasted English asparagus.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 17
SMOKED<br />
CHICKEN,<br />
TOMATO &<br />
PEA PAN PIE<br />
SERVES 4<br />
PREP 15 mins<br />
COOKING 40–45 mins<br />
No faffing about: just line an ovenproof<br />
frying pan with filo, bake, fill, top and<br />
bake again. The base is nice and crisp,<br />
and the filling is hearty and tasty. Pretty<br />
much any filling can be used, but the<br />
drier the fillings, the better the pie.<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
10 sheets frozen filo pastry, roughly<br />
defrosted<br />
1 egg, beaten<br />
25–30g butter, melted<br />
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for<br />
drizzling<br />
1 onion, finely chopped<br />
1 courgette, finely chopped<br />
1 garlic clove, crushed<br />
400g can chopped tomatoes in juice<br />
200g frozen peas<br />
10g beef stock cube, crumbled<br />
400g smoked chicken breast, roughly<br />
chopped<br />
1 teaspoon smoked paprika<br />
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley<br />
(about a small bunch)<br />
salt and freshly ground black pepper<br />
green salad, to serve (optional)<br />
METHOD<br />
Preheat the oven to 200°C/gas mark<br />
6. Place a few sheets of filo pastry<br />
in a 20cm × 3cm-deep, ovenproof,<br />
non-stick frying pan, brushing each<br />
layer with a little beaten egg and then<br />
melted butter. Keep any trimmings for<br />
the top later.<br />
Bake in the oven for 10 minutes to set<br />
the egg and pastry, then remove.<br />
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a saucepan<br />
over a high heat. Add the onion,<br />
courgette and garlic and cook for 10<br />
minutes to soften.<br />
Add the tomatoes, peas and stock<br />
cube and simmer for 12–15 minutes<br />
until nice and thick. Stir in the chicken<br />
and season well with salt and pepper.<br />
Spoon into the cooked filo.<br />
Very finely slice the rest of the filo<br />
pastry and place into a bowl. Drizzle<br />
with olive oil, sprinkle over the smoked<br />
paprika and chopped parsley, then<br />
season well.<br />
Recipe from Phil Vickery, The Canny Cook, Kyle<br />
Books (3 Feb. 2022)<br />
Arrange the filo on top of the filled<br />
pie. Pop into the oven and bake<br />
for a further 15 minutes until nicely<br />
browned. Serve with green salad, if<br />
you like.<br />
18 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Big<br />
MAMMA<br />
Love Italian food, love to host, but struggle with time? This new book is for<br />
you - featuring recipes from across Italia that only take 30 minutes to make...<br />
TAGLIATELLE AI<br />
FUNGHI PORCINI<br />
Tagliatelle with 3 mushrooms: porcini,<br />
oyster and button mushrooms - Serves 4<br />
• 420g (1lb) fresh pasta<br />
• 300g (11oz) ceps or porcini<br />
• 100g (3 ½ oz) button mushrooms<br />
• 50g (1 ¾ oz) oyster mushrooms<br />
• 1 garlic clove, crushed<br />
• 60g (2oz) butter<br />
• ½ bunch thyme<br />
• 4 tsp extra-virgin olive oil<br />
• Salt QB<br />
• Pepper QB<br />
Let’s start by all agreeing that porcini are<br />
the best mushrooms in the world. But<br />
it is also important to take advantage<br />
of Mother Nature’s bounty and try more<br />
flavours, whilst being easy on the wallet.<br />
So we have no qualms with mixing it up<br />
with different types of shrooms. Variety is<br />
the spice of life.<br />
Roll out the pasta dough to obtain a sheet<br />
3mm (1/ 10 in) thick (this thickness is vital<br />
for texture and soaking up all the sauce).<br />
Fold it over 5 times (always in the same<br />
direction) then slice it horizontally with a<br />
knife in 1cm ( 1/3 in) strips to<br />
obtain tagliatelle. Set aside.<br />
Wipe off any dirt from the mushrooms with<br />
a damp cloth (don’t wash them under a tap<br />
– they hate that!). Cut them into uniform<br />
slices. Heat the butter, thyme and garlic<br />
clove in a saucepan. Add the mushrooms<br />
and brown them over a high heat. Once<br />
they are cooked, remove the garlic.<br />
Cook the tagliatelle in salted boiling water<br />
for 2–3 minutes (no more). Drain and<br />
add straight to the saucepan with the<br />
mushrooms and mix in the olive oil. Serve<br />
in pretty pasta bowls.<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 19
CROCCHETTE AL<br />
TARTUFO<br />
Incredible croquettes with capocollo and black<br />
truffle. Serves 4 (12 CROCCHETTE)<br />
• 200g (7oz) capocollo (which can be replaced<br />
by any dryish cooked meat such as Prosciutto di<br />
Parma, spianata or salame piccante)<br />
• 1 large white onion<br />
• 1 medium-size black truffle in season (around<br />
25g/1oz)<br />
• 60g (2oz) butter<br />
For the béchamel sauce<br />
• 70g (2 ½ oz) butter<br />
• 70g ( ½ cup) plain flour<br />
• 450ml (scant 2 cups) whole milk<br />
• Salt QB<br />
• Pepper QB<br />
For the breading<br />
• 1 egg<br />
• 300g (2 cups) breadcrumbs<br />
• Sunflower oil QB<br />
Prepare the béchamel - Melt the 70g (2.oz) of<br />
butter in a saucepan. Add the flour then stir with<br />
a wooden spoon until you get a smooth paste.<br />
Simmer for 1 minute, pour in the cold milk while it<br />
is still on the heat and whisk the paste to eliminate<br />
any lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.<br />
The sauce should be neither too thick nor too<br />
runny. Add salt and pepper, then set the béchamel<br />
aside at room temperature. We’ll use it later.<br />
Thinly slice the onion and soften in a saucepan<br />
with60g (2oz) of butter. Chop the capocollo into<br />
small cubes and transfer these (lovingly) to the<br />
pan with the butter and onion. Cook for a further<br />
2 minutes. The secret? Do not overcook the<br />
cured meat otherwise it’ll be too salty. Pour in<br />
the bechamel and sprinkle with the grated truffle.<br />
Don’t worry, you’re allowed to use a grater for<br />
this – it’s not a sin.<br />
Transfer the mixture to the flattest tray you have<br />
and allow it to cool. A whole night in a cool place<br />
will only improve its consistency (In Italy, we leave<br />
it to cool on the balcony), but if you’re preparing<br />
it to be eaten on the same day, 25 minutes in the<br />
freezer will do the trick. After this rest of a few<br />
minutes (or a night, depending on your schedule),<br />
apply oil to your lovely hands (to stop the mixture<br />
sticking to your fingers) and form oblongs of<br />
about 5–6cm (2–2.in) long.<br />
Dip each in the egg and then in the breadcrumbs,<br />
and repeat. Put all the oblongs in the fridge for<br />
around 20 minutes before deep-frying them<br />
in a heavy saucepan half-filled with piping hot<br />
sunflower oil until golden brown. Finally, scatter<br />
over a little freshly grated truffle (yes, again! We<br />
are obsessed) on top before serving. As much as<br />
you want; it’s your home after all.<br />
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
PANNA<br />
WINTOUR<br />
Panna cotta with verbena and<br />
citrus fruits - Serves 6<br />
• 1 litre (1qt) double/whipping<br />
cream<br />
• 50g ( ½ cup) granulated sugar<br />
• 10g (2 tsp) pectin<br />
• Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon<br />
• A few fresh verbena leaves<br />
• Some citrus fruits (of your<br />
choice)<br />
Halve the citrus fruits and<br />
remove the flesh. Keep the skins<br />
intact and put them in the freezer.<br />
(Let’s upcycle here: make a juice<br />
from the flesh and get your daily<br />
dose of Vitamin C).<br />
Heat the cream in a saucepan<br />
with the verbena leaves and<br />
orange and lemon zest. Once<br />
the liquid is hot, discard the<br />
leaves and zest. If you have<br />
enough time, leave to rest<br />
with the leaves and zest for 30<br />
minutes in a covered bowl to<br />
allow the flavours to infuse a<br />
little more.<br />
Meanwhile, mix the sugar and<br />
the pectin in a bowl. Then<br />
add your citrus cream. NB: it<br />
mustn’t be too hot. The ideal<br />
temperature is 40°C (104°F)<br />
– but how can you check<br />
that? Well, if you don’t have a<br />
thermometer in your home, you<br />
can always ask the neighbour<br />
for one.<br />
Combine all the ingredients with<br />
a hand mixer or whisk, removing<br />
any lumps. Bring the cream to<br />
the boil in a saucepan. As soon<br />
as you see small bubbles starting<br />
to appear, remove from the heat<br />
then gently pour the cream into<br />
the citrus skins you’ve been<br />
keeping in the freezer.<br />
Keep in the fridge for as long as<br />
possible. Ideally… 4 hours! More<br />
realistically: for the length of<br />
your dinner – and here’s hoping<br />
this evening’s guests are tardy.<br />
For a final flourish, sprinkle<br />
some sugar on top and flambé<br />
with the grill or a blowtorch.<br />
Don’t singe your eyebrows!<br />
Big Mamma: Italian Recipes in 30<br />
Minutes: Shower Time Included<br />
Published by White Lion Publishing,<br />
Available from: Waterstones or<br />
Amazon, Price: £25<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21
Visit NAAFI for<br />
Coffee &<br />
Cake<br />
Find us a stone’s throw from<br />
<strong>Winchester</strong> High Street<br />
View our<br />
menu <br />
52-54 St. George’s Street, <strong>Winchester</strong>, SO23 8AH<br />
Subject to availability and change. Images for illustrative purposes only.
Delicious range of<br />
Milkshakes<br />
Smoothies<br />
& Iced Coffees<br />
also available<br />
Find us<br />
here
MODERN<br />
EARTHY<br />
PAINT<br />
Make your home a<br />
calming place, with<br />
modern earthy tones to<br />
connect with nature<br />
‘Bunny Hop’,<br />
earthbornpaints.co.uk<br />
LIGHTING<br />
Lighting makes a huge impact<br />
- adding table lamps for a soft<br />
glow is great. And you can<br />
get either corded wall lights<br />
or those with a rechargable<br />
bulb if you don’t want the<br />
upheaval of chasing in<br />
new wires<br />
Sophie Allport x COAT,<br />
‘Lyddington Mist’,<br />
sophieallport.com<br />
‘Viridis’ Paint,<br />
grahambrown.com<br />
Pooky x Matthew<br />
Williamson<br />
Pendant Light,<br />
£44, pooky.com<br />
Larkhall Large<br />
Table Lamp £145,<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
Furniture from oka.com<br />
DECLUTTER<br />
Decluttering can make<br />
a huge difference to the<br />
way we feel in our homes.<br />
Get the help of an expert<br />
if you need practical steps for<br />
ongoing storage solutions.<br />
Storage baskets are a practical<br />
and aesthetically pleasing way to<br />
organise your belongings<br />
Set of 3 Baskets,<br />
£155, hauslife.co.uk<br />
Espresso<br />
INTERIOR<br />
Small-scale updates you can<br />
make to re-awaken your home<br />
BRIGHT<br />
CUSHIONS<br />
Inject some colour and pattern<br />
without having to lift a paint brush<br />
with some new cushions<br />
Outdoor Green Cushion, £40, claire-Louise.<br />
co.uk; Kappar Cushion, £145, abigailborg.com;<br />
Coral Cushion, £42, tartanblanketco.com<br />
BTC X Beata Heuman<br />
Alma Wall Light, £575,<br />
originalbtc.com<br />
Pre-loved kitchen, uke.co.uk<br />
posterstore.com<br />
NEW ART<br />
New posters, prints, or originals<br />
can transform a space. For<br />
something unique, head to your<br />
local antiques dealership or fairs<br />
REPAINTED<br />
KITCHEN<br />
A new kitchen is a big expense - if<br />
your cabinets are in good fettle and<br />
you’re happy with the functionality,<br />
a repainted or re-wrapped kitchen<br />
can be a great solution<br />
24 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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Extensions/Renovations<br />
Loft Conversions<br />
Patios/Garden Walls<br />
Brick and Block Work<br />
Flint Work<br />
Roofing<br />
Conservatories<br />
Carpentry/Joinery<br />
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martin@mvennconstruction.com<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 25
Garden<br />
GLOW UP<br />
When it comes to projects that are a double whammy, garden<br />
landscaping ticks those boxes - hugely enhancing the lifestyle<br />
of the owner alongside adding a possible 20% to your home’s<br />
value 1 . Homeowners Tom and Kate wanted to transform their<br />
space from the unusable, awkward and dark sloped space, into<br />
a multi-level tiered garden that allowed for entertaining. We<br />
caught up with them to discuss the project.<br />
P H O T O G R A P H Y LUCY SAUNDERS<br />
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
TRANSFORM<br />
YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
WITH ANNABEL FROM<br />
After receiving a bachelors degree in Biology at Newcastle<br />
University, Annabel went on to study Horticulture with the RHS<br />
and later Garden Design at Sparsholt College. Annabel has been<br />
designing gardens across London, Hampshire and Wiltshire for 12<br />
years.<br />
ADVERTISING FEATURE<br />
Annabel is best known for creating lush green English gardens,<br />
that optimize the utility of the space by identifying specific zones<br />
and places to ‘be’. She tends towards generous planting plans<br />
combining horticultural knowledge and tasteful design that result<br />
in a space that is both beautiful and purposeful...<br />
The project pictured was for a client based near <strong>Winchester</strong>, looking<br />
to re-design a large 150m x 100m garden mainly laid to lawn with little<br />
structure or interest. The spec included a new indoor pool house built<br />
by Origin Pools, hiding an unsightly water treatment plant (whilst still<br />
maintaining access), entertaining terrace space, lighting for year-round<br />
enjoyment and low maintenance planting.<br />
Terrace. Specimen multi stem evergreen trees (Osmanthus x fortune)<br />
were planted in each corner to punctuate the main terrace, up lit from<br />
below, creating a feeling of height and feeling ‘within’ the garden. Yew<br />
topiary (Taxus baccata) provided elegant framing to the entrances of<br />
the pool house and pleached Photinia red robin provided screening and<br />
horizontal height to the West side of the terrace.<br />
Griselinia Littoralis hedging was planted around the edge of the entire<br />
terraced garden to zone the space.<br />
The outward facing beds were planted with Alliums, Nepeta racemose<br />
Walkers Low and Agapanthus africanus (Blue and White) providing<br />
an endless border that provides flowering interest from early Spring<br />
to early Autumn. Other beds included more complex planting plans<br />
for bursts of colour and foliage shape. Throughout a pallet of blues,<br />
purples, whites, greens and soft pinks was used.<br />
Mature specimen trees and shrubs (Quercus ilex, Salix babylonica,<br />
Magnolia leob Marril, Carpinus betulus, Eriobotrya japonica, Arbutus<br />
unedo and Cornus kousa var. chinensis gave the garden carefully<br />
positioned height, seasonal interest and a sense of age and maturity.<br />
The design included a Mediterranean inspired gravel garden, edged in<br />
dwarf Ilex crenata hedging (blight and caterpillar proof replacement to<br />
Box), with Italian terracotta pots in each corner with mature clipped<br />
Olive trees, a lavender avenue flanked by two 5m multi stem pale pink<br />
blossom cherry trees (Prunus serrulate Fugenzo), with a Jasmine arch<br />
(Trachelospermum jasminoides) as the focal point leading to the first<br />
terrace, punctuated by two Cyprus trees (Cupressus sempervirens<br />
‘Totem Pole’)<br />
The terraces were simply dressed with elegant iron furniture from<br />
The Heveningham Collection and large Italian terracotta from Italian<br />
The garden was lit using a combination of wall and up lighting with all<br />
cables buried and invisible, on 3 circuits with a combination of light,<br />
time and switch activation.<br />
Annabel charges £2,500 - £3,500 inc VAT for her design services and<br />
Offers a complimentary on-site meeting to discuss the project. Annabel<br />
has a 5 star rating on Google.<br />
“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Annabel on the<br />
transformation of our garden and we are delighted with the outcome.<br />
Her knowledge of plants, excellent taste and passion for her work have<br />
been invaluable.”<br />
winchesterfinegardens.co.uk
Envirobuild Explorer Decking and<br />
Barton Rattan Set<br />
CAN YOU TALK US<br />
THROUGH HOW THE<br />
GARDEN WAS BEFORE AND<br />
HOW YOU APPROACHED<br />
THIS PROJECT?<br />
The garden was just not fit for<br />
purpose. The access steps<br />
were treacherous and made<br />
arriving home awkward and a bit<br />
anticlimactic. The hard landscaping<br />
left very little space for garden<br />
furniture, and the finishes were<br />
either bare concrete or hardcore.<br />
The sloped site was challenging.<br />
The biggest job was the removal<br />
of earth and the creation of larger<br />
retaining walls - this allowed the<br />
usable space to double.<br />
We then wanted to zone the space<br />
as lounging and dining, with the<br />
dining on decking coming off<br />
the kitchen, and the lounging on<br />
porcelain slabs, meeting in the<br />
middle on the walkway.<br />
HOW DOES IT WORK WITH<br />
THE EXISTING HOUSE?<br />
The extension was designed with<br />
the garden in mind, with the Origin<br />
bi-fold doors opening from the<br />
kitchen onto the raised decking<br />
area. The black ‘Granite’ finish<br />
of the decking complements the<br />
doors, and also provides contrast<br />
against the buff-coloured stone of<br />
the house.<br />
28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Hambrooks Landscaping<br />
Creating and maintaining beautiful<br />
gardens for over 50 years<br />
• Decades of landscaping expertise<br />
• Tailored designs<br />
• Dedicated Project Managers<br />
• Garden maintenance packages<br />
• Garden Centre with show gardens<br />
visit: hambrooks.co.uk or:<br />
Since 1970<br />
Experts in your Garden<br />
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Call now on: 01489 779998<br />
<strong>Winchester</strong><strong>Lifestyle</strong>FPLandJuly<strong>2024</strong>.indd 1 10/07/<strong>2024</strong> 14:26:05<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 29
There’s a nice circularity now<br />
between the inside and out, and<br />
the two different seating zones<br />
are connected by a path which is<br />
bordered by the same repeating<br />
plant drifts to create a flow.<br />
WHY CHOOSE COMPOSITE<br />
DECKING?<br />
Composite was a no-brainer for<br />
us - it’s long-lasting and very low<br />
maintenance compared with its<br />
timber equivalent. It’s easy to clean<br />
with a jet washer and there’s no<br />
sanding and re-oiling involved.<br />
This is the Explorer range from<br />
Envirobuild*, which is made from<br />
recycled plastic. The company<br />
also donates 10% of profits to<br />
sustainability charities - it’s nice<br />
to see a company with social<br />
responsibility.<br />
Origin Bifold Doors<br />
The dining set is from the<br />
same company - we wanted<br />
something that would ‘pop’<br />
against the dark decking,<br />
and this six-seater Barton set<br />
works beautifully to create a<br />
contemporary dining area.<br />
ARE THE PORCELAIN<br />
TILES SLIPPERY?<br />
This was something we were<br />
concerned about and in turn we<br />
researched a lot and made sure<br />
our choices were anti-slip - this<br />
Kensington SE 04 from Origin<br />
BEFORE<br />
Earth Anthracite Porcelain, RF Paving<br />
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Earth Anthracite Porcelain, RF Paving<br />
32 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
“MAKE SURE YOU KNOW<br />
YOUR GARDEN BEFORE<br />
YOU START WORK - LOOK<br />
AT WHERE GETS SUN - IT<br />
WILL DICTATE NOT ONLY<br />
WHERE YOU SIT BUT YOUR<br />
PLANTING SCHEMES TOO.”<br />
selection is Earth Porcelain Paving* in the colour Anthracite and<br />
it just looks superb. The large format tiles make sure the space<br />
looks contemporary and the colour hides a multitude of sins! We<br />
used it on both the patio and the new steps, so its functionality<br />
was as important as the aesthetics.<br />
The porcelain is also a practical choice, it’s immensely strong and<br />
durable, scratch and stain resistant. Important when we wanted<br />
this area to house our fire pit.<br />
IS THAT THE FRONT DOOR?<br />
Sort of! The parking in this house is at the back, so we wanted<br />
there to still be a sense of arrival when coming home. This is<br />
made possible by the beautiful Origin Aluminium Door with the full<br />
height casement windows either side for added impact. The wide<br />
steps leading down to the door are paved with the same porcelain<br />
as the other patio.<br />
Envirobuild Explorer Decking and<br />
Barton Rattan Set<br />
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE PLANTING?<br />
We were really inspired by Prairie-style planting, so lots of drifts of<br />
ornamental grasses and herbaceous perennials - most of the ones<br />
in this style are really great for pollinators too, which was perfect<br />
for us. For the grasses, we chose the ornamental grass experts<br />
at Knoll Gardens - their selection is completely unmatched! Then<br />
for lots of the perennials, we selected from a mixture of a local<br />
plant nursery and then some stars from the Piet Oudolf curation<br />
at Farmer Gracy. Oudolf is an authority on this style of planting, so<br />
this curation was hugely helpful in terms of planning.<br />
Lots of the plants came from local nurseries. The best deals can<br />
usually be found at nurseries and the teams there always have lots<br />
of advice to offer.<br />
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED DURING THE<br />
PROJECT?<br />
That a budget only applies until you discover what’s lying<br />
underneath! The digging out and muck away of the retaining wall<br />
was a longer and more costly job than we could have anticipated.<br />
But ultimately, we’ve doubled the usable space in that area and<br />
it’s fabulous to use. We’d definitely stress the importance of<br />
having a contingency fund though.<br />
The other lesson was to make sure you know your garden before<br />
you start work - look at where gets sun - it will dictate not only<br />
where you sit but your planting schemes too.<br />
STOCKIST INFORMATION<br />
• Earth Anthracite Porcelain, Per m2 from £26.40 inc VAT,<br />
rflandscapeproducts.co.uk<br />
• Explorer Decking, £29.69 per length (inc. VAT), envirobuild.com<br />
• Baret Rattan Corner Dining Set, £2,799.99 - currently on sale for<br />
£1,119.99, envirobuild.com<br />
• Doors from Origin, origin-global.com<br />
• Planting; farmergracy.co.uk and knollgardens.co.uk<br />
1<br />
Research conducted by AXA. * PR discounted products<br />
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 33
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*Prices and availability are correct at time of sending
NOTES FROM THE GARDEN<br />
THE ART OF<br />
GARDENING -<br />
planning for Spring<br />
Any time now the garden centres,<br />
nurseries and magazines will have bulbs<br />
on display. To me it is a bit like being let<br />
loose in a sweet shop - I want them all!<br />
As well as the daffodils and tulips, grape hyacinths and<br />
crocuses there are so many options it is dizzying!<br />
Allium ‘Hair’<br />
The first show of colour in the<br />
spring is such a boost after the<br />
greys of winter and you can<br />
really create your own colour<br />
schemes so easily with bulbs.<br />
They grow where you plant<br />
them, come up as planned and<br />
are generally very well behaved<br />
indeed!<br />
Purples with oranges, reds with<br />
pinks, whites and greens - the<br />
colour palette is all yours and,<br />
as you can plant in pots, as<br />
one display fades you can bring<br />
Tulip ‘Go Go Red’<br />
“BULBS NEED SO LITTLE AND GIVE BACK SO MUCH. THEY START<br />
OFF HOMELY, EVEN UGLY, AND RETURN TRANSFORMED.” ANON<br />
forward the next.<br />
There are many wonderful specialist companies and nurseries<br />
who will give you that additional choice and magazines for<br />
inspiration too.<br />
For more advice, visit Matt Bigg’s website:<br />
www.matthewbiggs.com<br />
AUTHORISED<br />
DEALER 2023<br />
OILS<br />
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 35<br />
Haynes_<strong>Winchester</strong> Life_290323.indd 1 29/03/2023 11:06
Sofa.com<br />
Costello in Olive<br />
Novara Green No. 81,<br />
victorycolours.co.uk<br />
Olive Poster,<br />
£13.95,<br />
desenio.com<br />
Lime Stripe Cushion, £120,<br />
sweetpeaandwillow.com<br />
Garaffa Glass<br />
Bottle Lamp £159,<br />
cotswoldco.com<br />
Cirsium Cushion, £55 (filled),<br />
hauslife.co.uk<br />
Easy<br />
OLIVE<br />
Olive green is set to be the go-to colour for<br />
home decor and fashion this season! This<br />
earthy tone, inspired by peaceful landscapes<br />
and the calming vibes of nature, is popping up<br />
everywhere. It’s a warm, inviting shade that<br />
perfectly blends rustic charm with a touch of<br />
modern elegance, making any room feel cosy<br />
and serene.<br />
As we prepare to transition from the<br />
bright, lively days of summer into the snug,<br />
comforting evenings of autumn, this beautiful<br />
green hue will help to bring a sense of peace<br />
and balance into your home.<br />
Samos Hammam Towel,<br />
£46, bohemiadesign.co.uk<br />
Waffle Cotton<br />
Throw Olive<br />
130x170cm, £45,<br />
waltonshop.co.uk<br />
Brighton Sofa, £1250,<br />
darlingsofchelsea.co.uk<br />
Collection from<br />
marquisanddawe.co.uk<br />
icon Amara<br />
Velvet Footstool,<br />
£42.99, amazon<br />
Sofa.com Betty<br />
Armchair In Olive<br />
36 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
TRINITY HOUSE PHASE I – AVAILABLE NOW<br />
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Located in Alverstoke on the South Hampshire<br />
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Built in 1753, the Grade II-listed former naval<br />
hospital is part of the very fabric of our nation.<br />
Assured its place in history, it is now protected<br />
for the future. Reborn as a luxury waterfront<br />
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architecture and well-appointed, modern<br />
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Welcome to Royal Haslar - your sanctuary by<br />
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ONE AND TWO BEDROOM APARTMENTS<br />
PRICES FROM £220,000<br />
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Call today and book a private viewing of the<br />
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For detailed floor plans, apartment<br />
specifications, video tours and to register<br />
for the Royal Haslar newsletter, with latest<br />
updates and local news, visit the website:<br />
www.RoyalHaslar.com<br />
VIEWINGS BY APPOINTMENT<br />
Monday - Friday ............................ 9a.m.–6p.m.<br />
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Tel: 023 9200 2087
TAKE TO THE<br />
Floor Thinking<br />
of upgrading your<br />
floors? Here’s some inspiration<br />
Amtico Spacia Wood in<br />
Parquet – Large, £43.99<br />
per m², amtico.com<br />
WOOD<br />
Wooden floors are a timeless classic,<br />
and you can choose between hardwood<br />
or engineered wood finishes. Wooden<br />
flooring has traditionally been the go-to<br />
choice for many households due the<br />
beautiful appearance of the colour and<br />
grain found in many tree species. It can<br />
make your home feel warm and add<br />
character to rooms no matter their size.<br />
Generally speaking, you can choose<br />
between two options - hardwood and<br />
engineered, both with their own inherent<br />
pros and cons.<br />
• Engineered flooring consists of<br />
layers of ply that have been bonded<br />
together with a top layer of solid<br />
wood. An advantage of engineered<br />
flooring is that it has less tendency<br />
to expand and contract – meaning<br />
that it can be used with underfloor<br />
heating and in areas where moisture<br />
and temperature levels may vary,<br />
such as kitchens.<br />
• The significant advantage of<br />
hardwood flooring is that it can be<br />
sanded and refinished numerous<br />
times throughout its lifespan -<br />
because the top layer of engineered<br />
flooring is a wood overlay, there is<br />
a limit to the number of times it can<br />
be refinished - this is not true of<br />
hardwood, giving it real longevity.<br />
CARPET<br />
First and foremost, a carpeted floor<br />
is a safer floor. The soft surface and<br />
cushioned under-padding not only reduce<br />
the impact of a fall, but also the likelihood<br />
of it happening in the first place - carpet<br />
is inherently slip-resistant. Carpet requires<br />
a bit of extra maintenance compared<br />
to vinyl or tile, but there’s simply no<br />
substitute in terms of sound absorption,<br />
warmth and overall comfort.<br />
Malabar Two Fold Carpet in<br />
Husk, £40 per m²,<br />
cormarcarpets.co.uk<br />
• When you’re choosing a new<br />
carpet, the most important thing to<br />
consider what type of carpet you<br />
are buying is what room you are<br />
buying carpet for. Consider high<br />
traffic areas.<br />
• Always opt for a good, thick<br />
underlay. As well as making the<br />
carpet feel more plush underfoot, it<br />
will also help reduce wear and tear.<br />
• Consider your usage carefully; if<br />
you have a busy household with<br />
pets and children, a bleachable<br />
carpet may be a more sensible<br />
option than pure wool.<br />
LUXURY<br />
VINYL TILE<br />
Create an authentic wood, marble or<br />
stone finish instantly in your home in an<br />
affordable way. Ideal for your bathroom,<br />
kitchen or hallway; luxury vinyl tiles are<br />
practical, durable and easy to clean, and<br />
they are easy and cost-effective to fit.<br />
• The design layer of LVT is topped<br />
with a transparent, protective<br />
coating with a built-in stain guard<br />
and scratch resistance. As a result,<br />
LVT flooring is extremely durable<br />
and hardwearing, soft to walk<br />
on and even waterproof, making<br />
them ideal for areas like kitchens<br />
and bathrooms, or anywhere with<br />
excess water.<br />
• The average lifespan of LVT<br />
is 25-30 years depending on<br />
maintenance, traffic and location.<br />
• As a robust yet versatile alternative<br />
to tiled and hardwood, LVT can<br />
replicate their designs to an<br />
intricate level. Displaying the<br />
character, look and grain of wood<br />
flooring or the texture and feel of<br />
Italian slate tiles, LVT offers an<br />
affordable alternative.<br />
Stucco Talc 60cm x 60cm,<br />
£44.87 per m², bakedtiles.co.uk<br />
TILE<br />
Chepstow Planed Grey<br />
Engineerd Oak, £134 per m²,<br />
woodpeckerflooring.co.uk<br />
The natural choice for bathrooms, tiles<br />
are also becoming more popular for living<br />
spaces - helping to connect indoor and<br />
outdoor spaces with uniformity.<br />
• Hypoallergenic – Tile is inhospitable<br />
to dust mites, mould, germs, and<br />
bacteria.<br />
• Impact resistant, and difficult<br />
to scratch compared to other<br />
coverings, a tiled surface will last.<br />
Porcelain tile is made of dense clay<br />
and put through a firing process<br />
which renders it harder than<br />
granite! There is no need for cutting<br />
boards or pot holders to protect<br />
tile countertops from damage.<br />
Even floors in high-traffic areas are<br />
no match for the durability of tile<br />
when properly installed. Properly<br />
installed, tile can last a lifetime.<br />
• Ceramic and porcelain tile do<br />
not emit VOCs and are created<br />
with naturally occurring clay and<br />
minerals that are heated to high<br />
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• Natural stone is timeless. Since<br />
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38 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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MODERN<br />
MOTORING<br />
We look at the impressive tech<br />
package of the Genesis Electrified<br />
GV70 - the electric SUV you need<br />
to add to your shortlist<br />
In today’s fast-paced world, modern<br />
car buyers are increasingly looking<br />
for technological advances that<br />
enhance their driving experience.<br />
The automotive industry has<br />
responded with an array of innovative<br />
features designed to make driving<br />
more enjoyable, convenient, and<br />
safe. Among the leaders in this<br />
technological revolution is the<br />
Genesis GV70 Electrified, a vehicle<br />
that seamlessly blends luxury with<br />
cutting-edge tech. Let’s delve into<br />
some of the standout features of this<br />
impressive SUV, including self-parking<br />
capabilities, smart air conditioning,<br />
active road noise cancelling, and a<br />
fingerprint authentication programme.<br />
The Genesis GV70 Electrified is<br />
equipped with an advanced selfparking<br />
system, which is a boon<br />
for urban drivers who often find<br />
themselves squeezing into tight spaces.<br />
This system can autonomously park the<br />
car in parallel or perpendicular spots<br />
with minimal driver intervention. Using a<br />
combination of cameras and ultrasonic<br />
sensors, the GV70 can detect suitable<br />
parking spaces and manoeuvre itself<br />
into position, all while you sit back and<br />
relax. For those stressful moments<br />
when parking feels like a daunting<br />
task, this feature is nothing short of a<br />
game-changer.<br />
Another highlight of the GV70<br />
Electrified is its smart air conditioning<br />
system. Unlike traditional climate<br />
control systems, the smart air con in<br />
the GV70 adapts to the needs of each<br />
passenger. It can automatically adjust<br />
the temperature, airflow, and even the<br />
direction of the air vents based on the<br />
number of occupants and their seating<br />
positions. Additionally, the system<br />
can be pre-conditioned remotely via a<br />
smartphone app, ensuring the cabin is<br />
at the perfect temperature before you<br />
even step inside. This feature not only<br />
enhances comfort but also contributes<br />
to overall energy efficiency.<br />
Driving in silence has never been<br />
more achievable thanks to the active<br />
road noise cancelling technology in<br />
the GV70 Electrified. This system<br />
works similarly to noise-cancelling<br />
headphones by emitting sound waves<br />
that counteract unwanted noise from<br />
the road and the vehicle’s powertrain.<br />
The result is a remarkably quiet cabin,<br />
allowing you to enjoy your music or<br />
conversation without the constant hum<br />
of the outside world. This technology<br />
significantly reduces fatigue on long<br />
journeys, making every drive a more<br />
relaxing experience.<br />
Security and personalisation are taken<br />
to the next level with the GV70’s<br />
fingerprint authentication programme.<br />
This feature allows you to start the<br />
car and access personalised settings<br />
with a simple touch. Each driver can<br />
register their fingerprint, and the<br />
system will automatically adjust the<br />
seat position, mirror angles, climate<br />
control settings, and even infotainment<br />
preferences to their individual profiles.<br />
It’s a subtle yet powerful way to<br />
enhance convenience and ensure that<br />
every drive feels tailored to you.<br />
The Genesis GV70 Electrified is a<br />
testament to how far automotive<br />
technology has come. With its suite of<br />
advanced features, it offers a driving<br />
experience that is not only luxurious<br />
but also incredibly user-friendly and<br />
secure. As car buyers continue to seek<br />
out vehicles that provide more than<br />
just a means of transportation, the<br />
GV70 stands out as a prime example<br />
of how technology can elevate our<br />
daily drives.<br />
AWD Dual Motor Sport £65,105<br />
(OTR). To start your journey with<br />
Genesis please look at the website<br />
www.genesis.com<br />
40 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Telephone: 023 8076 4389<br />
Email: info@southcoasturology.co.uk<br />
South Coast Urology (SCU)<br />
are a team of seven consultant<br />
urological surgeons providing<br />
a comprehensive service in all<br />
aspects of urology...<br />
Each consultant holds a teaching hospital appointment at<br />
University Hospital Southampton and has the extensive<br />
expertise in a specific area of urology.<br />
You may choose to see any of our experts for a consultation<br />
and diagnosis. Our philosophy is that through sub-specialisation<br />
and team-working we are able to guarantee that should you<br />
require an operation, it will be performed by a high volume<br />
surgeon – something that has been shown time and again to<br />
improve outcomes for patients.<br />
Our services include:<br />
• 2 week wait (e.g. raised PSA,<br />
abnormal DRE, haematuria,<br />
testis and renal masses).<br />
• Prostate cancer diagnostics<br />
using multi parametric MRI,<br />
specialist and targeting<br />
biopsy techniques (template,<br />
fusion, smart), robotic surgery,<br />
salvage treatments.<br />
• Benign prostate disorders<br />
such as benign enlargement,<br />
infections, inflammation.<br />
Treatment options include<br />
TURP, HoLEP (laser surgery),<br />
Urolift, PAE (Prostate Artery<br />
Embolisation) and Rezum.<br />
• Urinary tract stone disease<br />
with shockwave lithotripsy,<br />
ureteroscopy, laser lithotripsy,<br />
micro/mini/standard PCNL<br />
and chemical pathology<br />
support to prevent further<br />
stones.<br />
• Bladder conditions such<br />
as over-active bladder<br />
(OAB), infections, stones,<br />
incontinence, supported by a<br />
high quality urodynamics<br />
service.<br />
• Men’s health conditions<br />
including erectile dysfunctions<br />
(ED), andropause,<br />
contraception (vasectomy).<br />
• Complex robotic, laparoscopic<br />
and open cancer options for<br />
those with prostate bladder,<br />
renal, testis and neighbouring<br />
organ tumours.<br />
South Coast Urology work<br />
closely with a wider network<br />
of specialists including<br />
radiologists, oncologists, nurses<br />
and chemical pathologists.<br />
Appointments are available 5<br />
days a week at 3 leading private<br />
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Our efficient administration<br />
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www.southcoasturology.co.uk
MIND & BODY WELLBEING<br />
New Age UK research uncovers deeply troubling levels of<br />
mental ill-health among people in their fifties and over<br />
in later life<br />
A new report from the charity Age<br />
UK, ‘I just feel like no one cares’,<br />
paints a really worrying picture<br />
of the mental health challenges<br />
facing many members of our older<br />
population (people aged 50 plus).<br />
For the first time in this series of<br />
regular reports, Age UK’s data<br />
collection included people aged over<br />
50, rather than focusing solely on<br />
those aged 60 plus. The report helps<br />
to identify a wide range of factors<br />
that are impacting the wellbeing of<br />
older people and highlights how<br />
mental health challenges for specific<br />
sub-groups such as women, people<br />
with long term health conditions,<br />
carers and those living in deprived<br />
areas, are a lot more pronounced<br />
than for others.<br />
Another report published last week<br />
by the Centre for Mental Health -<br />
commissioned by Age UK – showed<br />
how older people are being left<br />
behind by inadequate mental health<br />
services, ageism and the absence<br />
of any national strategic approach<br />
for supporting them. This new Age<br />
UK report, ‘I Just Feel Like No One<br />
Cares’, reinforces the urgent need<br />
to take this issue seriously as our<br />
population ages and, as the report<br />
highlights, due to the significant,<br />
often disregarded needs of those in<br />
their fifties who are still very much of<br />
working age but approaching their<br />
later lives. Nationally representative<br />
polling[i] carried out for Age UK in<br />
<strong>Sep</strong>tember 2023 found:<br />
The entire 50 plus population:<br />
• Almost a third (31%) said that<br />
their physical health had got<br />
worse over the previous 12<br />
months, with (16%) finding it<br />
harder to look after themselves.<br />
• More than two in five (45%) said<br />
they had less energy; more than<br />
one in three (35%) said they<br />
couldn’t walk so far; and almost<br />
one in three (32%) said they<br />
were in more physical pain.<br />
• Almost two in five (39%) people<br />
aged 50 and over reported not<br />
sleeping well, and more than a<br />
third (34% - 8.7 million) told us<br />
that they felt less motivated to<br />
do things that they enjoy.<br />
• Almost half (48%) of unpaid<br />
carers aged 50 and over had<br />
felt anxious, more than a third<br />
(34%) had felt overwhelmed,<br />
and more than a fifth (21%) had<br />
felt lonely because of the care<br />
or support they provide.<br />
• One in eight (13%) people<br />
aged 50 and over were rarely<br />
or never having social contact<br />
with others in person, over the<br />
phone, or online.<br />
Find more resources and support<br />
at ageuk.org.uk<br />
HOW TO HELP<br />
The report from Age UK makes<br />
stark reading - but there are lots<br />
of ways to support feelings of<br />
wellbeing - we have just a few<br />
suggestions:<br />
EXERCISE It’s well<br />
understood that activity, particularly<br />
resistance training, can be hugely<br />
beneficial for retaining muscle<br />
mass, helping us age better. You<br />
could start at a gym under the<br />
instruction of a PT, or even start at<br />
home, using household items like<br />
water bottles or cans as weights.<br />
If nothing else, aim for 5 minutes<br />
- more than likely you’ll feel like<br />
doing more once you start.<br />
SOCIAL We are social<br />
creatures by nature, but as we<br />
age, those circles can get smaller.<br />
Forming new, regular connections<br />
is essential. Age UK’s website has<br />
a directory for social activities -<br />
also check local bulletin boards.<br />
Workshops or short courses in a<br />
hobby you enjoy is also a great<br />
way to meet people.<br />
MINDSET It’s hard<br />
to heal the body without the<br />
mind - mindfulness helps<br />
hugely. Yoga classes provide a<br />
helpful framework - and a group<br />
environment is helpful.<br />
[i] Age UK Polling: Kantar Research Express conducted an online self completion survey between 7th <strong>Sep</strong>tember and 21st <strong>Sep</strong>tember 2023<br />
amongst 2,621 adults in the UK aged 50+.<br />
42 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 43
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your dream<br />
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opens 1 July<br />
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EXTRA CARE<br />
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For more information contact<br />
shelteredhousing@winchester.gov.uk l Tel: 01962 855 335<br />
Why business must review workplace<br />
pensions regularly<br />
Workplace pensions play a crucial role in employees'<br />
financial security during retirement. However, it is<br />
essential for employers to periodically review these<br />
schemes to ensure they remain effective and compliant.<br />
All employers must offer a workplace pension scheme by<br />
law, subject to employee eligibility. Automatic enrolment<br />
ensures that eligible employees are enrolled in the<br />
scheme, with contributions from both the employer and<br />
the employee. Regular reviews of the scheme help<br />
employers stay compliant with legal requirements, while<br />
ensuring maximum benefit to employees.<br />
Workplace pensions need to be reviewed regularly in line<br />
with an ever-changing body of legislation and to check<br />
they are delivering value for money and are suitable for<br />
their workforce, for example a scheme based on<br />
qualifying earnings or deductions net of basic rate tax<br />
may not be suitable for high earning employees.<br />
Effective employee communication and guidance is also<br />
essential to get the best out of the pension scheme.<br />
Employers should ensure staff understand their pension<br />
options, decisions they need to make, and the value of<br />
the benefit on offer. Regular reviews provide<br />
opportunities to reinforce awareness and educate<br />
employees about their pension plans.<br />
Pension-related laws evolve over time. Employers must<br />
review existing pension schemes to ensure they satisfy<br />
automatic enrolment rules or remain compliant with any<br />
changes in legislation. Staying informed helps employers<br />
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Regular reviews of workplace pensions benefit both<br />
employers and employees. By maintaining compliance,<br />
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employers can enhance the retirement prospects of their<br />
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Remember that workplace pensions are a long-term<br />
commitment, and thoughtful reviews contribute to their<br />
success. If you have any<br />
specific questions or need<br />
further details, feel free to ask.<br />
JAMES ALESBURY<br />
Payroll Director,<br />
HWB Chartered Accountants<br />
023 8046 1222<br />
james.alesbury@hwbaccountants.com<br />
www.hwb-accountants.com<br />
46 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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