Stratford-upon-Avon Living May

YOUR FREE COPY MAY/JUNE 2026

living

OUTDOOR

lifestyle

DESIGNING SPACES

MADE FOR SUMMER

ADAM HENSON

WE CATCH UP WITH THE

FARMER & TV PRESENTER

A NICE SLICE

DELICIOUS BROWNIE

RECIPES TO DEVOUR

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

19 – 23 MAY

27 – 30 MAY

11 – 14 JUN

20 JUN

16 – 19 JUL 20 – 21 JUL

Book now belgrade.co.uk

17

C O N T E N T S

INTERVIEW WITH ADAM HENSON

A NOTE

NOTE

from the editor

from the editor

As we move into May and

June, there’s a real sense of the

season opening up — longer

evenings, lighter days, and more

opportunities to enjoy time at

home and outdoors. In this issue,

we’ve leaned into that feeling

with a lead feature on outdoor

living, exploring how to carve out

a space you genuinely want to

spend time in — whether that’s a

quiet corner for a morning coffee

or somewhere to host friends on

warm summer evenings.

Staying with the theme of simple

pleasures, we’re delighted to

share a selection of indulgent

brownie recipes from Kate

Jenkins of the renowned Gower

Cottage Brownies. Perfect for a

weekend treat or to accompany

a garden gathering, they’re well

worth trying (and sharing!).

20

OUTDOOR LIVING

Elsewhere in the magazine, you’ll

find a fascinating interview with

Adam Henson, reflecting on life

in farming and his experiences

as a television presenter — a

thoughtful and engaging read

that offers a glimpse behind the

scenes.

14

BROWNIES TO WOW

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

Cover courtesy of Oka.com

GARDEN TIPS

25

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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.

We’re also keen to hear from

you. You’ll notice a QR code

dotted throughout this edition

— by taking just three minutes

to complete our reader survey,

you’ll not only be entered into a

draw to win a £240 wine hamper,

but you’ll also help us shape the

magazine around what you most

enjoy reading.

As always, thank you for your

continued support — and we

hope this issue provides plenty

of inspiration for the weeks

ahead.

Katie

www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3

Puzzle Time

Summer Word Search

Would you like to advertise in this space?

Get in touch to find out more: 01225 984550 or

email studio@minervapublications.co.uk.

I E V E G O G G L E S H F W O

S T A D T N B F T L X O H Y M

F N H F G S A N S U G L P V O

V L O U O A W M G R O I H K P

Y B I R N K R I E X J D D S V

K L L P K D I D M T M A H U A

K E T U F E E S E S W Y M N I

Z B H A E L L R W N U O N G C

E A E H L S O I S C I I A L E

J R A U M P K P N T K N T A C

A B T Q B T D I S G O R G S R

S E W A E E A Y E X B R G S E

S C A I D M M J R S R W M E A

S U V S T A Y C A T I O N S M

V E E U B E A C H B A L L B P

HEATWAVE

BLUE SKIES

SUNGLASSES

SWIMSUIT

FLIP FLOPS

ICE CREAM

GOGGLES

SUMMERTIME

WORDSEARCH

BEACH BALL

SNORKELING

GARDENING

THUNDERSTORM

BARBECUE

STAYCATION

HOLIDAY

WORD WHEEL

thunderstorm sunglasses snorkeling

Staycation blue skies flip flops

This Summer themed word wheel is made from a 9

beach ball letter Summer gardening themed word. Try and find swimsuit that word,

then make as many words of any length as you can

Barbecue from these letters. goggles You can only use each heatwave letter once,

and each word must include the letter B.

ice cream

Holiday

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

Sudoku

SUDOKU

8 1 6

3 4

9 5 3 2

1 4

5 4 3 9 7 2

8 7 9 3

1 5

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6 5 2

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®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

© 2007 - 2026 Education.com

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20TH-CENTURY MASTERPIECES

Three ballets from three choreographic giants...

Promotional Partnership

20th-Century Masterpieces shows how

ballet can thrill and delight through

sheer artistry and brilliance, and yet

it can explore dark and ever-with-us

conversations about man’s inhumanity

to man.

BRB’s founder choreographer, Sir

Frederick Ashton, made Birthday Offering

for the then Sadler’s Wells Ballet to

celebrate their 25th anniversary in 1956

(the year they became The Royal Ballet),

working with a dazzling cast of dancers

that included Margot Fonteyn.

Sabrina Lenzi and Kevin O’Hare in a performance

of Birthday Offering

The Green Table is considered Kurt

Jooss’s masterwork – created in 1932 he

foreshadows the ultimate futility of the

peace negotiations of that decade and

shows Death becoming the inevitable

dance partner of each of the characters

in turn.

Mathias Dingman and Artists of Birmingham Royal

Ballet in a performance of Theme and Variations

George Balanchine’s joyous Theme and

Variations drips with gilded grandeur,

evoking in Balanchine’s own words the

‘great period in classical dancing when

Russian ballet flourished with the aid of

Tchaikovsky’s music’. Created in 1947,

it is a glorious celebration in dance with

which to round off the programme.

20th-Century Masterpieces is supported

by donors to the Caroline Miller Fund.

The Green Table is supported by Stuart

Sweeney and Fern & Clive Potter. Birthday

Offering is supported by The Frederick

Ashton Foundation and The Rick Mather

David Scrase Foundation.

Birmingham Hippodrome

Fri 19 - Sat 20 Jun 2026

Joseph Cipolla as Death

in The Green Table

Fri19 Jun, 2:00pm | Fri 19 Jun, 7:30pm

Sat 20 Jun, 2:00pm | Sat 20 Jun 7:30pm

To book: https://www.brb.org.uk/

shows/20th-century-masterpieces

8 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk

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LIVE MUSIC EVENTS

Join us on the terrace!

ACOUSTIC AFTERNOONS: LIVE MUSIC DATES

SUNDAYS THROUGHOUT MAY – SEPTEMBER | 2.45PM – 5.00PM

17TH MAY – JOSIE SODEN

21ST JUNE – BARTON HOLLOW

19TH JULY – JOSIE SODEN

16TH AUGUST – BARTON HOLLOW

20TH SEPTEMBER – JOSIE SODEN

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

what it means to be a foster parent

Promotional Partnership

We hear from one of Abacus Fostering’s single foster

parents, to find out what the role means to her...

Being a single foster carer is a strength

in the way I care for a child. It allows me

to be fully present and focused, noticing

the small, everyday moments that build

trust—being consistent, keeping routines

steady, and staying calm when things feel

difficult. I understand that children who have

experienced uncertainty or broken trust

may test boundaries or push adults away

at first. I don’t take this personally; I know

trust grows slowly through patience, clear

communication, and following through.

Caring has always been a natural part of

who I am. I’ve always been the person who

notices when someone is struggling and

quietly steps in to help. Through my own life

experiences, I have learned that what truly

makes a difference is not big gestures but

steady kindness—being reliable, listening

well, and creating a calm, predictable home.

When I learned more about the experiences

of children in care, I felt strongly that I wanted

to offer them that stability, understanding, and

consistency.

Day to day, I like a structured but warm

household where children know what to

expect. I prioritise routines—regular meals,

consistent bedtimes, school attendance—

and I understand that even simple things

can feel overwhelming for a child new to the

home. I go gently and build routines at their

pace, helping them feel included rather than

controlled. Being single also allows me to be

flexible around appointments, school needs,

contact arrangements, and professional

meetings.

I recognise that children in care often carry

worry, grief, anger, or confusion, and these

feelings may show through behaviour. I take

a trauma informed approach: staying calm,

offering space when needed, and focusing

on de escalation and reassurance. I want

children to know they are never “too much”.

I value working as part of a professional

team around the child. I am comfortable

communicating with social workers, schools,

and health professionals, keeping accurate

records, attending training, and asking for

guidance. I also know how important identity

and family connections are, and I would

support contact sensitively, helping a child

prepare and process the emotions that come

with it.

I understand that fostering can be

challenging, especially as a single carer. I

manage stress through routine, reflection,

and seeking support early. I have, or plan to

have, a strong personal network and will use

supervision and respite appropriately.

Overall, my motivation to foster is to offer

stability, patience, safety, and kindness—a

home where a child can rebuild trust, feel

valued, and grow in confidence and hope for

their future.

Writing this has given me the opportunity

to express my heartfelt gratitude for the

exceptional support I’ve received from

Abacus Fostering, which genuinely feels like

a second family to me. Their unwavering

encouragement and thoughtful guidance

makes a huge difference, helping me to

navigate challenges with confidence and

ease. The reassurance that they offer truly

makes a difference to how you feel and

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personal and professional growth. Thank you

all for consistently being such a supportive,

caring, and dedicated team. I feel incredibly

fortunate to be part of such a warm and

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You can help make

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We are passionate about finding a great home for

our foster children

Foster parents play a critical role in helping children heal. They show

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Our experienced team are here to provide you with the training, resources,

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and young people in need. We believe that every child deserves a safe

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Speak to an Abacus foster carer today or email us:

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Scan the QR

code for more

information:


«««««THE TIMES ««««« THE TELEGRAPH ««««« THE INDEPENDENT

«««««BBC MUSIC MAGAZINE “PURE PLEASURE” THE GUARDIAN

TELEMANN’S FLUTE

19th May 2026, 7.30pm -

The Court House, Warwick

20th May 2026 7.30PM –

Great Malvern Priory, Malvern

Flute – Eva Caballero

Soprano – Hannah Fraser-Mackenzie

Armonico Consort Baroque Players

Director – Christopher Monks

Tickets for Warwick

Box office: 0333 666 3366

www.armonico.org.uk

Tickets for Great Malvern Priory

Box office: 01684 892277

www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

HENRY PURCELL KING ARTHUR

18th June 2026, 7.30pm -

Collegiate Church of St Mary, Warwick

24th June 2026 7.30pm -

Malvern Theatres, Worcestershire

Cast line up – Hannah Fraser-Mackenzie,

Laura Moretto, William Towers, William Searle,

Alex Jones.

Armonico Consort & Baroque Players


Narrator – Oz Clarke

The King Arthur Legend Script – William Towers

Tickets for Warwick

Box office: 01926 334418

www.armonico.org.uk

Tickets for Malvern

Box Office: 01684 892277

www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

25 TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Supersize Polyphony 3 - Venetian Blinders!

Warwick performance is generously cosponsored

by members of Armonico Consort’s

Conductor’s Circle, Mr John Cook and Mr &

Mrs J Wynn-Evans.

Autumn 2026 & Spring 2027

Warwick performance generously supported by

Mr John Cook

Running time approx. 120 mins with an interval

Armonico Consort & Baroque Players.

The English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble


Tickets: On sale April 2026

www.armonico.org.uk

EQ-M

BOOK TICKETS TODAY: www.armonico.org.uk

Registered charity no. 1103159


Shopping as it

FREE

Admission

GARDEN CENTR

Full of Unique Timeless Charm

Escape to the heart of the countryside and enjoy a truly relaxing day out.

Get garden-ready at

deals on plants, tools, and

outdoor décor, plus

exclusive offers for Family

Card holders.

and more.

Treat yourself at our on-site hairdresser, beautician, skincare studio and

tattooist - or unwind with a Pilates class led by our resident physiotherapist.

Whether you’re browsing,

indulging, or simply soaking

up the spring sunshine,

He

• P

• C

• H

something for everyone.

Plan your perfect spring

visit today.

TRE & SHOPPING VILLAGE

FREE

Admission

15 Independent Traders

• Jewellery & Fashion

•

• Toys & Sweets

3

Eateries

Services

Health & Wellness

• Physio & Pilates

• Physio

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& Pilates

Shop

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Shop

Hair & Beauty

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&

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Beauty

Country Walks

as it it Should Be Be

NEXT-LEVEL BROWNIES

Rich, indulgent and endlessly

adaptable, brownies are the

ultimate crowd-pleaser. In The

Brownie Book: Wickedly Irresistible

Chocolatey Bakes, Kate Jenkins

reimagines the classic with creative

twists and bold flavours. Kate’s

kindly selected three standout

recipes to try at home.

MATCHA BLONDIE

Building on a white chocolate blondie

base, half the batter is infused with

earthy matcha for a striking finish and

distinctive flavour.

INGREDIENTS

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter,

diced

150g (5½oz) white chocolate, broken

into small pieces

300g (1½ cups) caster sugar

1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract or paste

150g (1 cup plus 2 tbsp) plain flour

½ tsp baking powder

3 eggs

2 tbsp matcha powder

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C

fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter in a saucepan over a

medium heat, stirring continuously.

Reduce to low, add the chocolate

and stir until smooth and glossy.

Remove from the heat. Stir in the

sugar and vanilla, then the flour

and baking powder until you have a

smooth mixture with no lumps.

Whisk the eggs until light and frothy,

then gently fold into the mixture to

form a thick batter.

Divide between two bowls and mix

the matcha into one until evenly

green.

Dollop alternating spoonfuls into a

lined tray to create a marbled effect.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until set at

the edges with a slight wobble in the

centre. Cool completely, then slice

into 12.

PEANUT BUTTER

SALTED CARAMEL

BROWNIE

A rich chocolate brownie layered with

salted caramel and peanut butter,

with optional chopped peanuts for

extra texture.

For the salted caramel

100g (1⁄2 cup) light soft brown sugar

175ml (3⁄4 cup) double cream

50g (1¾oz) unsalted butter, diced

1 tsp sea salt

300g (10oz) crunchy peanut butter

(optional)

For the brownie batter

175g (6oz) unsalted butter, diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,

in small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour


3 eggs

50g (1¾oz) lightly salted peanuts,

chopped (optional)

METHOD

To make the caramel, gently heat

the sugar, cream, butter and salt

until dissolved. Increase the heat

and simmer for 2–3 minutes until

thickened. Remove from the heat, stir

in the peanut butter and spread into a

lined tray. Freeze until firm.


fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter, then stir in the

chocolate until smooth. Remove

from the heat and mix in the sugar

and vanilla, followed by the flour and

baking powder.

Whisk the eggs until frothy, then fold

into the mixture.

Spread half the batter into a lined

tin, add the frozen caramel layer,

then cover with the remaining batter.

Sprinkle with peanuts if using.

Bake for 40 minutes until set at the

edges with a slightly soft centre. Cool,

then cut into 12 bars.


RASPBERRY RIPPLE

BROWNIE

Inspired by raspberry ripple ice

cream, this bake combines rich

chocolate with a soft, tangy swirl.

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter,

diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,

broken into small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain

flour


3 eggs

For the raspberry swirl

125g (4½oz) white chocolate

75ml (2½fl oz) soured cream

1 egg, beaten

1 tsp natural raspberry flavouring

(we use Foodie Flavours, available

online)

1 tbsp raspberry jam

METHOD


fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter, then stir in the

chocolate until smooth and glossy.

Remove from the heat and mix in

the sugar and vanilla, followed by

the flour and baking powder.

Whisk the eggs until light, then fold

into the mixture to form a smooth

batter.

For the swirl, melt the white

chocolate in short bursts, then

mix in the soured cream, egg,

flavouring and jam until smooth.

Spread half the brownie batter into

a lined tin. Spoon over half the

raspberry mixture, then top with the

remaining batter. Add the rest of

the swirl mixture and lightly marble

with a cocktail stick.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until set at

the edges with a slight wobble in

the centre. Cool, then cut into 9.

The Brownie Book: Wickedly

Irresistible Chocolatey Bakes

by Kate Jenkins (DK, £16.99),

with photography by Kim

Lightbody, is available now.

A Full-Circle Return:

Refined British Dining at The Warwick

Steve Davies visits The Warwick at

Mallory Court Hotel & Spa

Set within the beautiful grounds of Mallory

Court Hotel & Spa, The Warwick offers a

dining experience that feels both elegant

and quietly confident — a place where

exceptional ingredients, thoughtful cooking

and a sense of occasion come together

with effortless ease.

The restaurant is led by Stu Deeley, whose

return to Mallory Court marks what he

describes as a “full-circle moment” in his

career. Having first worked at the hotel

during his early training, Deeley has since

gained national recognition, most notably

winning MasterChef: The Professionals

in 2019. His cooking is rooted in modern

British cuisine, with a clear emphasis

on seasonality and allowing high-quality

ingredients to speak for themselves.

That philosophy is evident from the very

start. Dinner opens with a trio of amusebouches,

presented on a striking stand that

immediately sets the tone. Among them,

a Wagyu tartare stands out — delicately

balanced with red pepper, a gentle heat

from jalapeño mayonnaise, and a subtle

crunch of pine nuts. It is a small but

confident introduction, showcasing the

kitchen’s ability to layer flavour without

overwhelming the palate.

Starters continue in a similar vein. A

chicken liver parfait delivers everything you

would hope for: rich, smooth and deeply

savoury, lifted by carefully considered

accompaniments that bring contrast and

brightness. Alongside it, cured Chalk

Stream trout offers a lighter, fresher option

— its clean, delicate flavour allowing the

quality of the ingredient to shine.

The main courses reinforce the kitchen’s

ingredient-led approach. A beautifully

cooked poussin is tender and full of natural

flavour, its simplicity handled with precision.

Meanwhile, the Iberico presa offers

something altogether more indulgent — the

marbling of the meat lending a richness

and depth that is expertly controlled,

resulting in a dish that feels both luxurious

and balanced.

Desserts provide a fitting finale. Yorkshire

rhubarb, paired with Tahitian vanilla

baked Alaska, brings together sharpness

and sweetness in a classic yet refined

interpretation, while a thoughtfully curated

British cheese selection offers a more

traditional close to the meal.

Throughout, service strikes just the right

note — attentive and polished, yet relaxed

enough to allow guests to settle in and

enjoy the experience at their own pace.

Combined with the elegant setting, it

creates an atmosphere that feels special

without ever becoming formal.

The Warwick is quietly establishing itself

as one of the region’s most compelling

dining destinations — a restaurant where

confident, ingredient-led cooking takes

centre stage, underpinned by a clear sense

of craft and restraint.

www.mallory.co.uk/the-warwickrestaurant

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

ADAM HENSON

Why British Farming

Matters More

Than Ever

Farmer and BBC Countryfile

presenter Adam Henson has spent

decades championing British

agriculture and helping people

understand where their food comes

from. Ahead of appearances at the

Great British Farm-Fest and the

Royal Three Counties Show, he

reflects on the realities of farming

today — from unpredictable

weather to global competition —

and why reconnecting people with

the countryside has never been

more important.

FARMING AT THE

MERCY OF NATURE

Farming may be supported

by increasingly sophisticated

technology, but it remains

fundamentally dependent on nature.

That reality became clear last year

on Adam’s farm.

“We had the driest summer in living

memory,” he explains. “We went

from a wet autumn and spring to

an incredibly dry summer, and our

crops really struggled. Yields were

down by about 30%.”

The sunflower crop was particularly

affected and had to be cultivated

back into the soil. Yet farming often

brings unexpected moments.

“We left a strip as a wildflower

margin, and the seeds that

hadn’t rotted germinated again.

Suddenly we had this beautiful

strip of sunflowers.”

It’s a reminder of the unpredictability

that defines agriculture — and the

resilience it demands.

A COMPLEX

INDUSTRY UNDER

PRESSURE

Modern farming faces a range of

challenges. British farmers work

to high environmental and welfare

standards — something Adam

supports — but competing with

imports produced under different

conditions can be difficult. “When

imports don’t match our standards,

it makes competition harder.”

Disease also remains a concern.

Livestock conditions such as

Bluetongue and Schmallenberg can

have serious consequences, while

avian influenza continues to disrupt

poultry farms.

Despite this, Adam is clear that

farming is far from uniform.

MANY TYPES OF

FARMING

“The industry is incredibly diverse,”

he says. “You might have a small

family farm working hard for modest

returns, or a large-scale operation

using advanced machinery.”

“You can have all the plans

in the world, but farming

constantly reminds you

Both play a vital role in producing

food and sustaining rural

communities. “We want the

countryside to be vibrant and

successful.”

RECONNECTING

PEOPLE WITH

FOOD

there are things you

simply can’t control.”

Adam’s biggest concern is how

disconnected many people have

become from food production.

“We don’t teach agriculture in the

national curriculum,” he says. As a

result, everyday processes — from

how eggs are produced to how

crops grow — are often poorly

understood.

“If we don’t understand where our

food comes from, it’s very hard to

make informed choices.”

LOOKING AHEAD

With a busy show season ahead,

Adam remains optimistic. “If people

understand and value the work

behind their food, that’s incredibly

powerful,” he says.

Because farming, he believes, is

about far more than food — it’s

about landscape, wildlife and

the communities that shape our

countryside.

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE WORST?

Why a Lasting Power of Attorney Matters — At Any Age

When people hear the term Lasting

Power of Attorney (LPA), they often

assume it’s something to think

about much later in life — alongside

retirement planning and writing a

will. In reality, an LPA is not about

age so much as preparedness. It’s a

practical safeguard that can make a

significant difference at any stage of

adulthood.

An LPA is a legal document that

allows you to appoint one or more

trusted people to make decisions on

your behalf if you are ever unable to

do so yourself. There are two types:

one covering property and financial

matters, and another covering health

and welfare decisions. Together, they

create a safety net that protects both

your wishes and your loved ones

from uncertainty and stress.

LIFE IS UNPREDICTABLE

— AT EVERY AGE

It’s easy to assume incapacity only

comes with old age, but unexpected

illness or accidents can happen

at any time. A sudden medical

emergency, serious injury, or period

of impaired mental capacity can

temporarily — or permanently —

prevent someone from managing

their affairs. Without an LPA in

place, even a spouse or close family

member may not have the legal

authority to step in and help.

That can lead to frozen bank

accounts, delayed bill payments,

and difficult decisions being made

without clear guidance. In some

cases, families must apply through

the courts for permission to act — a

process that can be costly, slow and

emotionally draining at an already

stressful time.

CONTROL AND CHOICE

— NOT LOSS OF

INDEPENDENCE

Some people avoid putting an

LPA in place because they worry it

means giving up control. In fact, the

opposite is true. Creating an LPA is

about retaining control — you decide

who acts for you, what powers they

have, and when those powers can be

used. You can include preferences

and instructions, and you can require

your attorneys to act jointly or

independently.

For financial matters, you can even

allow your chosen person to help

while you still have full capacity —

for example, if you travel frequently,

run a business, or simply want

administrative support.

A PRACTICAL PART

OF MODERN LIFE

PLANNING

Just as many adults now take out

income protection or critical illness

cover, an LPA is increasingly viewed

as part of sensible life planning.

It sits naturally alongside a will

and other financial arrangements,

forming part of a joined-up

approach to personal security.

It can be particularly important

for business owners, property

owners, parents of young children,

and those with complex financial

arrangements. But even people

with straightforward finances

benefit from clarity and continuity if

something unexpected happens.

MAKING THINGS

EASIER FOR THOSE YOU

TRUST

Perhaps the strongest reason to

arrange an LPA is the reassurance

it gives to others. In a crisis,

families are already under pressure.

Knowing that legal authority is in

place — and that decisions can

be made smoothly — removes a

major burden. It prevents disputes,

confusion and delays, and allows

loved ones to focus on care and

recovery rather than paperwork.

Putting an LPA in place is usually

far simpler than people expect, and

once completed, it sits quietly in the

background unless ever needed.

Like insurance, it’s something you

hope never to use — but are very

glad to have. The key is not when

you think you might need one, but

recognising that adulthood itself is

reason enough to be prepared.


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FUTURE, PROTECT

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Planning for the future is one of the most important

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SEASONAL FOCUS

OUTDOOR LIVING

Designing gardens that feel like a

natural extension of the home

THE GARDEN,

REIMAGINED

The garden is no longer a separate

space — it’s an integral part of

the home. As the days lengthen,

attention naturally turns outdoors.

But today’s approach to garden

design goes far beyond planting

schemes. It’s about creating a

cohesive, functional environment

where cooking, relaxing,

entertaining and even

working can all

take place.

Wooden Adirondack Chair,

£239, hauslife.co.uk;

Ocellus Outdoor Cushion

£75, oka.com

The result?

Spaces that

feel

every bit as considered as the

interiors they connect to.

SEAMLESS INDOOR–

OUTDOOR LIVING

One of the biggest shifts in recent

years has been the desire to blur the

boundaries between inside and out.

Large-format doors, level thresholds

and consistent flooring help create a

natural flow from kitchen to terrace.

Even subtle details — matching

colour palettes, coordinated

furniture styles — can make the

transition feel effortless.

This connection doesn’t just

enhance aesthetics; it changes how

the space is used, encouraging

more time spent outdoors.

PERGOLAS

& COVERED

SPACES

Pergolas have become

one of the defining

features of modern

gardens.

Images, clockwise from top left; Garden

House Design, Renson Canopy; Danetti

Furniture; OKA tablescape

Whether sleek aluminium structures

with adjustable louvres or more

traditional timber designs softened

with planting, they provide structure

and shelter — extending the

usability of outdoor spaces well

beyond the height of summer.

Add integrated lighting, heating or

retractable shades, and a pergola

becomes a true outdoor room.

OUTDOOR

KITCHENS & DINING

Al fresco dining has evolved into

something far more sophisticated.

Outdoor kitchens — from simple

built-in barbecues to fully equipped

cooking stations — allow hosts to


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Project by Green Retreats

stay part of the occasion rather than

stepping away indoors.

At the heart of many of these

spaces is a high-quality grill.

Kamado-style barbecues, in

particular, have seen a surge in

popularity, prized for their versatility,

heat retention and ability to cook

everything from slow-smoked meats

to pizzas and seared vegetables. As

a result, they’re increasingly being

designed into outdoor kitchens as

a permanent feature rather than a

portable add-on.

Indoor/Outdoor Rug, £115, clickstyle.co.uk;

Garden Chair, £129.99,

laura-james.co.uk; Outdoor Cushion,

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Materials matter here too: durable

stone worktops, weather-resistant

cabinetry and thoughtfully planned

layouts ensure these spaces

are both practical and visually

cohesive — built to withstand the

elements while still feeling like a

natural extension of the home.

GARDEN ROOMS &

FLEXIBLE SPACES

Garden rooms continue to grow

in popularity, offering a flexible

solution for modern living.

Whether used as a home office,

gym, studio or simply a quiet

retreat, they provide valuable

additional space without the need

for a full extension.

High-quality insulation, glazing and

interior finishes mean

these spaces can be

used year-round —

making them a practical

as well as aspirational

investment.

Cintre Lounge Chair £1595,

oka.com

PLANTING: BRING

IT ALL TOGETHER

With so much emphasis on

structure, it’s easy for planting to be

pushed to the edges — but it’s what

gives a garden its softness and life.

The most successful spaces

bring planting closer to the house,

allowing greenery to frame seating

areas, soften terraces and enhance

the view from inside. Even simple

additions — pots near doorways,

looser borders around

entertaining spaces — can

make a garden feel more

immersive.

Crucially, planting needs room

to thrive. Generous beds

and thoughtful layering will

always create more impact

than squeezing greenery into

leftover gaps.


LANDSCAPING:

ANCHOR THE

SPACE

Behind every successful outdoor

space is strong landscaping.

Clean lines, defined zones and a

balance of hard and soft materials

create structure. Planting schemes

are increasingly designed for yearround

interest, with texture and

form playing as important a role as

colour.

Importantly, good landscaping

ensures that all the individual

elements — seating areas, pergolas,

kitchens — feel connected rather

than competing.

A SPACE THAT

WORKS FOR YOU

The most effective outdoor spaces

are those tailored to how they’ll

actually be used.

For some, that means a sociable

entertaining area. For others, a calm

retreat or a practical family garden.

Often, it’s a combination of all three.

What’s clear is that outdoor living

is no longer a luxury — it’s an

expectation. And with thoughtful

design, even modest spaces can

be transformed into something truly

special.

Lacock Lounge Set, £1,709 and

Indian Palm Block Print Parasol

below, £225, both hauslife.co.uk

Because when the garden works

as beautifully as the home itself,

summer living becomes second

nature.

LIGHTING: THE

FINISHING TOUCH

Lighting is often the element that

brings everything together.

A well-designed

scheme can

highlight planting,

define pathways

and create atmosphere long after

the sun has set. Layering is key —

combining subtle uplighting, task

lighting and softer ambient options.

Done well, lighting transforms a

garden from a daytime space into

an evening destination.

Bramblecrest Tuscan 9 Seater Aluminium Garden Furniture Corner Sofa

Dining, £3,995, Set with Fire Pit Table, charlies.co.uk

Tesso Dark Grey

Garden 4 Seater Dining

Table £699, danetti.

com; Firebowl, £79.99,

homescapesonline.com

NOTES FROM THE

Garden

‘The darling bugs of May’

with apologies to Laurie Lee!

May and June are wonderful months in the garden. Lots to

enjoy and lots to do but this time of the year is also critical for

our insect friends. Bees, butterflies, moths all need our help and

so choosing what we plant, what parts of the garden we leave a

little wild - all of these affect how useful our garden is for them.

Dandelions are an essential bee flower so I leave them to flower,

but dead head them before they seed! Nettles are also essential

for certain butterflies, the small tortoiseshell, peacock and red

admiral to lay their eggs on -

nettles don’t need to overrun

the garden but a discreet, out

of the way, clump is great.

Ivy provides nectar for the holly

blue butterfly and winter shelter

for all overwintering species

plus nesting birds.

Lavender, Buddleia,

Honeysuckle and Sedum are

great for bees and butterflies

too.

If you have a shallow dish you can make a mud puddle which

butterflies and other insects appreciate- soil, water and maybe

a landing stone is such a useful resource and so simple to

provide.

There are so many types of bees, from the hairy footed flower

bee to the buff tailed bumblebee - and some are solitary bees,

the more I learn about bees the more I appreciate them.

Bee hotels, softwood with holes drilled in, or making a bee and

bug hotel is a great outdoor task for kids, and teaches them

such a lot - so whatever you do in the garden in May and June,

don’t forget the tiny pollinators and our insect chums.

For more advice, visit Matt Biggs’ website:

www.matthewbiggs.com

Landlords, Guarantee your rent,

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Independent Property & Lettings Agent

M. 07787 197935 // T. 01789 608087

info@cwpropertypartner.co.uk


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At Ambleside care home our highly

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Our homes offer luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop,

hair salon and beautiful lounges with a passionate wellbeing

team that means your loved one’s day will never be the same.

A LIFESTYLE TAILORED TO YOU

At our home Ambleside we’ll support you to continue

living your life the way you choose. We’ll learn all about

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personalised lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy whether it’s

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LUXURY LIVING

At Ambleside we have beautiful luxurious facilities, including

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Our Head Chef-led kitchen teams are passionate about

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HEAR WHAT RELATIVES HAVE TO SAY

We recognise the importance of friends and family staying

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regular relative meetings are popular.

TRUST US TO CARE

Ambleside is part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded

large care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality,

person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over

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To find out more about all 01789 868409

Ambleside care home

Evesham Road,

Stratford-Upon-Avon,

CV37 9TG

careuk.com/ambleside

Pensions

Investments

Estate Planning

Equity Release

Pensions | Investments | Mortgages | Equity Release

Tristan Pring, BSc (Hons), DipFA, CeMAP, CeRER

Independent

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Let’s get your finances working for you!

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Bespoke, whole of market advice from an

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For a free, no obligation meeting at your

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Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

For a FREE, no-obligation

Tristan T: 07809 Pring 217871

meeting

E: tris@pjlfs.co.uk

at your home,

BSc (Hons), DipFA,

www.pjlfinancialservices.co.uk

CeMAP, CeRER please get in touch.

Independent Financial Advice

07809 217871

email: tris@pjlfs.co.uk

www.pjlfinancialservices.co.uk

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority


Award

winning care

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Book your

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To book please call 01789 548 743 or email

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Rated

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Trusted to care

Living Well, Living Connected

Why retirement is becoming one of life’s most

rewarding chapters...

For a new generation, retirement is no

longer about winding down — it’s about

opening up. More time, more freedom

and more choice are reshaping what later

life looks like, with lifestyle, wellbeing and

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conversation.

One of the biggest shifts is how people

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The result? More time to spend on the

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designed space.

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confident decisions about their future

while they are still in control. This sense

of preparedness not only protects longterm

security, but also allows individuals

to fully embrace the opportunities that

retirement can offer.

Yet perhaps the most defining element of

modern later-life living is connection. As

awareness grows around the impact of

loneliness, there is a clear shift towards

environments that actively foster social

interaction. Today’s communities are

designed with this in mind — from shared

lounges and landscaped gardens to

organised events and interest-led groups.

These are places where neighbours

quickly become friends, and where a

sense of belonging develops naturally.

Wellbeing, too, has taken centre stage.

The focus is no longer simply on care

when it’s needed, but on maintaining

health and vitality for as long as possible.

Access to fitness classes, walking

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housing. In their place are light-filled

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Ultimately, retirement today is not about

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later life can be every bit as full, vibrant

and rewarding as the years that came

before.


WE HELP WITH

Visiting Care

Live-In Care

Dementia Care

Companionship

Post Op Care

Palliative Care

Respite Care

Cleaning

Shopping

Outings

Gardening

Transport

From a little help to

full support, we’ve got

you covered.

HOME CARE WITH

A DIFFERENCE

Stay in your own home.

Live life your way.

When everyday life becomes harder, you

don’t need to give up your independence.

We provide flexible, friendly home care that

fits around you, not the other way round.

Trusted by families for

flexible, person-centred care.

Call us FREE for a friendly chat

0808 808 5000

info@newagecare.co.uk

www.newagecare.co.uk

WHY FAMILIES

CHOOSE US

Kind, highly

trained carers

No rushing,

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Spread the cost

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0% interest-free payment

plans available for 10 or

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Fixed price packages

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Spread the cost

Flexible monthly payments

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www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/finance

*Loans are subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Circle Health Group Limited is an Appointed Representative of Chrysalis Finance Limited, which is authorised

and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Circle Health Group Limited is a credit broker, not a lender. The provider of a payment scheme which is not offered

through or by Chrysalis Finance Limited may not be so authorised and regulated. 1st Floor 30 Cannon Street, London, England, EC4M 6XH.

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