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GUILDFORD
AUG/SEP 2026
YOUR FREE COPY
LIVING
THE LATE
SUMMER
TABLE
A CELEBRATION OF
SEASONAL PRODUCE,
SIMPLY PREPARED
IT WAS ALL
YELLOW
BUTTERY YELLOW IS THE
COLOUR OF THE SEASON
SMART AUTUMN
HOME UPGRADES
THE CHANGES TO CONSIDER NOW TO
WINTER-PROOF YOUR HOME
FEATURING GUILDFORD, GODALMING, CRANLEIGH, DORKING AND WOKING
18 20
A JACK
C O N T E N T S
HOME INTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS
UPDATES
Editor Katie Thomson
e katie@minervapublications.co.uk
Assistant Editor Kate Norris
Publisher Sally Thomson
Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose
Contributors
Angela Cave, Louise Thomson,
Pete Lawrence
FOR ADVERTISING
Account Manager Ryan Davis
e ryan@minervapublications.co.uk
t 01225 984498
Front Cover courtesy of FatFace
TASTE STEIN OF THE INTERVIEW SEASON & RECIPE
22 26
104
SUMMER COMPETITIONS
LOOKS
27
PLANTS FOR CAR REVIEW
POLLINATORS24
MINERVA PUBLICATIONS
Unit 21c, Paxcroft Farm,
Hilperton BA14 6JB
t 01225 984 550
www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Printed on sustainably sourced paper.
Please recycle this copy or pass it along
when you are finished for someone else
to enjoy.
Disclaimer: The publishers shall not be
held liable for any loss occasioned by
failure of an advertisement to appear, or
any damage or inconvenience caused by
errors, omissions and misprints. No part of
this publication may be reproduced without
prior permission from the publishers.
The opinions expressed within are not
necessarily those of the publishers.
A NOTE
from from the the editor editor
This edition arrives as summer
begins to soften into early autumn
— a time for making the most of
warm I had days, enjoying my first local English events
and strawberry gently turning this week, our thoughts and my
to word, the season it was ahead. beyond Inside, delicious you’ll
find - ideas perfectly for late-summer sweet, it was days a
out, very food good and advert drink inspiration, for eating
home seasonally. updates, I’ve garden tried to advice echo
and this features in all to my help recent you ease fruit into and
September
vegetable
feeling
purchases,
inspired.
and it’s
had a transformative effect on
Before my cooking that, however, - everything we want just to
pay tastes tribute better to someone - more who vibrant, has
been needing a much-valued less seasoning part of and our
magazines just overall for very almost tasty. a decade.
We I’m were making deeply the saddened most to of
hear cooking of the whilst death of I still our garden have a
expert,
kitchen
Matthew
- mine is
Biggs
due
VMH,
to be
who passed away in May at the
ripped out in two weeks and
age of 65. For many readers,
Matthew’s it will be camping gardening stove column and
was air frying a familiar for two and months trusted from
feature, there! offering I’ve already practical picked advice, my
seasonal kitchen, but wisdom it got me and thinking an
infectious about all enthusiasm the other for areas plants. that
need updating in my home. If
Best you known are thinking for his appearances
of a similar
on
refresh,
Gardeners’
please check
Question
out our
Time, Matthew combined
home pages this edition -
vast horticultural knowledge
with
they’re
warmth
full of
and
inspiring
humour.
trends
A
professional and a few timeless gardener classics. for more
than 25 years, he studied at
Pershore We’ve also College got of some Agriculture lovely
and editorial the Royal on Botanic the best Gardens, plants
Kew, for before pollinators going - on it’s to never write
many been books so important and become to support one
of wildlife Britain’s in the most garden. respected
gardening voices.
Recently
The competition
awarded the
guide
Victoria
this
Medal issue is of a Honour, bumper one one - we of
horticulture’s have an highest outdoor accolades, furniture
Matthew set from was Bramblecrest also admired for worth his
determination nearly £3,000, during plus a his cordless battle
with lawnmower bowel cancer, worth £679 including to get
his that work garden helping shape. to create This, a
therapeutic plus a lot more garden makes at Mount it well
Vernon
worth
Hospital.
a look and an enter!
We are enormously grateful
for We Matthew’s will be contribution back again to in
this August magazine. - I’ll be His fully rebooted columns
encouraged and recharged readers into embrace summer
the mode. seasons See and you appreciate then! the
natural world. He will be greatly
missed, and our thoughts are
with his family, friends
Katie
and the
many gardeners he inspired.
Katie
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 3
what's on
AUG/SEP 26
Guildford offers a year-round calendar of events,
attractions, and experiences. Explore what’s
coming up and make the most of everything this
historic town has to offer.
G-LIVE
PRINCESS PROMS
21 August
Prepare for a show-stopping performance
as we pay tribute to the iconic,
heartwarming and nostalgic songs from
animations including Frozen, Wicked,
K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moana, The
Wizard of Oz, Beauty & the Beast,
Anastasia, Pocahontas, Aladdin, The Little
Mermaid, The Lion King, Willy Wonka &
the Chocolate Factory and more!
ERIC IDLE: IDLE IN PROVENCE
19 September
Join legendary comedian, writer, and
Monty Python icon Eric Idle for a special
live event marking the release of his
wonderfully funny and deeply personal
new book, Idle in Provence.
Idle in Provence is a riotous, moving
memoir spanning fifty years of mishaps,
friendships, heartbreak, and hilarity.
CHARLIE BAKER: GO GET IT
19 September
Award-winning radio host, stand-up
powerhouse and entertainment machine
Charlie Baker returns to the stage with his
brand new show: GO GET IT.
Expect a full-throttle entertainment
experience, packed with sharp observations,
infectious energy and a performance that
barely pauses for breath.
You’ve heard the voice. Now see the chaos.
www.trafalgartickets.com
The Choir of Man
4 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
YVONNE ARNAUD
5 MISTAKES THAT CHANGED
HISTORY
20 September
A hilarious historical storytelling show
performed by historian and comedian,
Paul Coulter, about five people and
how their mistakes (big and small!)
changed the world. Blending history,
storytelling and comedy the show has
been a smash-hit, sell-out success on the
comedy festival circuit, selling out both
Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Adelaide
Fringe Festival three years in a row in
2023, 2024 and 2025.
THE CHOIR OF MAN
22 September - 26 September
Direct from the West End, the Olivier
Award-nominated, worldwide smash hit
is now on its first ever UK tour. Brimming
with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther
Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns &
Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a
few, this is a show like no other!
www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
GUILDFORD
INSTITUTE
THE MAN WHO CAUGHT A
MILLION CRIMINALS
12 August
Alex Jeffreys & the Invention of DNA
Fingerprinting. This talk will explore the
first case (1985) solved using new DNA
techniques.
VIC CRACKNELL JAZZ QUARTET
WITH SPECIAL GUEST DUNCAN
LAMONT
12 September
Vic Cracknell returns in more celebration
of the music of the Great American
Songbook. Swinging interpretations of
classic songs written by George and Ira
Gershwin, Cole Porter, Lerner & Loewe,
Irving Berlin, Jimmy Van Heusen, Harry
Warren, Johnny Mercer, Duke Ellington
and others.
www.guildford-institute.org.uk
The Selfish Giant
GUILDFORD
CATHEDRAL
THE SELFISH GIANT
BY OSCAR WILDE
29 October
An enchanting performance for families
during the October Half Term. Guildford
Cathedral is delighted to welcome Riding
Lights Theatre Company this October for
an enchanting production of The Selfish
Giant.
Enter the magical world of the Giant’s
garden, filled with music, beauty,
birdsong and stories.
But the Giant is angry when he returns
to find children playing happily in his
beautiful orchard.
Every day after school, they laugh and
play beneath the blossom trees, until he
builds a high wall to stop the fun. Then
winter takes hold of the garden in its icy
grip…
Will summer ever return?
With storytelling, interactive games,
live music and puppetry, Riding Lights
Theatre Company brings The Selfish
Giant to life in a heart-warming family
play, ideal for ages 3+, about love and
generosity.
Riding Lights Theatre Company creates
theatre that makes a difference. For
nearly 50 years, the charity has performed
in churches, schools, prisons, theatres,
streets and communities across the UK.
Shaped by a Christian ethos, its work
is inclusive, accessible and welcoming
to all, inspiring audiences to explore
creativity, faith and social justice.
Wednesday 29 October | 11am and 2pm |
Running time: 60 minutes.
For almost five decades, Riding
Lights Theatre Company has inspired
audiences across the UK with welcoming,
imaginative theatre rooted in hope.
More information and booking:
www.guildford-cathedral.org/events/
the-selfish-giant
®
Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator
© 2007 - 2026 Education.com
Puzzle Time
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.
T E B I H A G G L I C P G V U
B A I A T T Z B E B R Q R T M
O I S C R O O U D E F V I B Q
J Z W H I B N N K A L O L U W
Z M E A B Q E G P Y A M L K S
F U E R S V J C S V M G I X S
J S T C A M K I U E E T N R H
L T C O L H K E V E F R G D A
I A O A A F T Z B L X Q P S L
J R R L D L M P K A G W X X L
U D N G Q Z Q H W I B F M N O
C A H A M B U R G E R S F E U
Y C U P H O T D O G Y R I S M
G U M N C U C G P J Q V A E I
N R K L Q K E T C H U P F S L
HAMBURGER
BARBECUE
KETCHUP
TONGS
SALAD
SWEETCORN
GRILLING
SUMMERTIME
WORDSEARCH
HOT DOG
MUSTARD
CHARCOAL
HALLOUMI
KEBABS
FLAME
BUN
WORD WHEEL
Hamburger Sweetcorn Charcoal Bun
Barbecue Grilling Halloumi
This Summer themed word wheel is made from a 9
Ketchup letter Summer Hot themed Dogword. Try and find Kebabs that word,
Tongs
then make as many words of any length as you can
from these letters. Mustard You can only use each Flame letter once,
Salad
and each word must include the letter S.
®
Sudoku
Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator
© 2007 - 2026 Education.com
Sudoku
SUDOKU
9 6 4 2 8
7 8 6 5
3 1 5
5 8
4 9 1 7 3
4 9
3 5 9
8 9 4
9 6 8
9 6 5 4 7 2 3 1 8
4 7 8 9 1 3 6 2 5
2 3 1 5 6 8 9 4 7
7 1 3 6 9 5 4 8 2
6 4 9 2 8 1 7 5 3
8 5 2 7 3 4 1 9 6
1 2 4 3 5 6 8 7 9
3 8 7 1 2 9 5 6 4
5 9 6 8 4 7 2 3 1
®
Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator
© 2007 - 2026 Education.com
SOLUTIONS
A MASTERCLASS ‘
IN
IRISH STORYTELLING’
HHHHH
BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE
HHHHH
BROADWAY BABY
HHHHH
PRESS READER
HHHHH
ONE4REVIEW
HHHHH
SCOTTISH DAILY MAIL
MYRA’S
STORY
WRITTEN BY BRIAN FOSTER
STARRING FÍONNA HEWITT-TWAMLEY
SAT 10 OCT 2026
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ROBERT HARRIS
AUGUSTUS, AGRIPPA, AND THE BIRTH OF
THE ROMAN EMPIRE
Tue 15 Sep
G Live, Guildford
Book now at GLive.co.uk
Becky Embroidered
Waistcoat, £52 and
Rhea Cutout Maxi
Skirt, £59, both
FatFace
Waistcoat,
£36, M&S
BUTTER
YELLOW
A soft but confident dose of colour -
offering a warmer, sunnier alternative
to classic neutrals for the season
ahead. From pale buttercream and
whipped vanilla tones to richer,
custard-like yellows, the palette feels
fresh, optimistic and surprisingly
easy to style across fashion,
interiors and everyday accessories.
1860 Vanilla Tile,
bakedtiles.co.uk
Katie Dress, £69,
hauslife.co.uk
Trendsetters
OUR FAVOURITE LIFESTYLE FASHIONS & FINDS
‘Crème
Brûlée’ Paint,
Graham &
Brown
Leather Mary
Janes, £80,
Oliver Bonas
Ceramic Egg
Holder, £14.95,
hauslife.co.uk
Yellow Shirred Blouse
£35, Laura Ashley Fatface
Satin Trousers,
£28, M&S
Canvas Print, £39.95,
desenio.com
Scalloped Blouse,
£58, Oliver Bonas
10 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
From page to stage
THU 20 –
SUN 23 AUG
THU 29 –
SAT 31 OCT
THU 18 –
SUN 21 FEB
Toto the Ninja Cat Spot’s Birthday Party Dear Zoo
Based on Dermot O’Leary’s best-selling
children’s book
Based on the beloved Eric Hill classic
Happy Birthday Spot
The timeless children’s classic book returns
to the stage!
YVONNE-ARNAUD.CO.UK | BOX OFFICE 01483 44 00 00
RHS Garden
Wisley Flower
Show
Tue 1 – Sun 6 Sep
Join us for a vibrant show full
of inspiration, expert tips and
delicious food and drink.
RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 11
Inside Guildford's
Most Unexpected
Cultural Space
PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP
A vibrant programme of art, talks, classes
and live music makes The Guildford Institute
a hub for culture, learning and connection.
In the heart of Guildford, just minutes from the High Street,
The Guildford Institute has been part of local life for more
than 130 years and remains one of the town’s most active
cultural spaces. Familiar to many, yet still a new discovery
for others, it continues to play an important role in the
community, bringing people together through shared interests
and lifelong learning.
Its heritage is evident throughout the building, but its focus is
firmly on the present. Every week, the Institute offers a varied
programme of talks, lectures, exhibitions and cultural events,
alongside classes in art, crafts, languages, literature, history,
music and wellbeing. There is something to inspire people of
all ages and interests.
There is a constant sense of activity throughout the building.
One room may be hosting a creative workshop, while another
welcomes a thought-provoking discussion or engaging
lecture. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly and inclusive,
making it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
The Institute’s programme also extends into evenings
and weekends. The GI Music Lounge showcases talented
independent musicians in an intimate setting, with
performances ranging from jazz and folk to acoustic
sessions, complemented by a welcoming lounge atmosphere
and licensed bar.
The V-Café provides a comfortable place to meet friends,
enjoy refreshments, or continue conversations before or after
events and classes.
Whether you are looking to learn a new skill, hear inspiring
speakers, enjoy live music or simply spend time in a vibrant
community space, The Guildford Institute offers a rich and
varied programme throughout the summer.
Discover what’s on and plan your visit at
www.guildford-institute.org.uk.
12 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Visit us this autumn
PREP
SENIOR
26 September
16 September
Book now
rgsg.co.uk
SIXTH FORM 2 & 3 October
Co-ed from 2027
Phased entry
2027: Nursery, Reception, Year 3, Sixth Form
2028: Year 7
G U I L D F O R D
#WhereGirlsThrive
Independent day school for girls aged 4 - 18
Find Her Future
OPEN MORNINGS
Book your place
Contact
01483 796 040
admissions@tormeadschool.org.uk
PRE-PREP & NURSERY SCHOOL
Independent Pre-Prep and Nursery School
for boys and girls aged 6 months - 7 years
Co-Educational
Prep School from
September 2027
OPEN MORNINGS
Book your place
Contact
01483 563 160
RHAdmissions@rydeshill.org.uk
Tormead family
14 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
HOW TO GET THE MOST FROM
A SCHOOL OPEN DAY
As the new school year approaches, Emily Roberts from the
Independent Schools Council shares her tips for making the
most of school open days...
Every parent wants to give their child
the best start in life, and this naturally
includes choosing a school that best
suits their child’s needs. For many this
can be a daunting task, and it can be
hard to know where to start.
An independent education remains a
popular choice for families, with lots
of different schools to choose from
including day and boarding, single-sex
and co-educational, and schools with
specialisms such as in the arts or sport.
Open days give families the opportunity
to see first-hand whether a particular
school is the right fit. Some schools also
run virtual open days, making it possible
for families to explore what a school has
to offer from the comfort of their own
home.
There are many different aspects to
consider when attending an open day,
so to help ease the process, here are
some top tips for parents considering an
independent school for their child:
Narrow down your choices
If you live in an area with a number of
good schools nearby, create a shortlist
and take time to plan your school
visits. The ‘Find a School’ tool on the
ISC website is particularly useful, as it
enables you to refine your search by
distance, residency type, age range, fee
assistance options and more! If you are
considering a school which is further
afield, it’s worth making a day of it so you
and your child can get a feel for the area.
Think about the school’s specialism
or focus
All independent schools are different,
offering unique specialisms and
strengths. Ask yourself what type of
school would best suit your child – are
they sporty, academic or creative? If
you have an academic child you might
like to consider a selective school,
whereas if your child is very creative,
you might prefer a school with excellent
arts provision and facilities. The most
important thing is to speak to your child
about what type of school they can
imagine themselves in.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Teachers expect parents to be inquisitive
and are well prepared to answer
questions, so ask teachers everything you
want to know; it’s always best to speak
up if you have any queries or concerns!
Important areas that you might ask about
include class sizes, the subjects on offer,
methods of assessment, extracurricular
activities and pastoral support.
It would also be worthwhile learning more
about how the school communicates with
parents; it’s important that you feel wellinformed
and able to discuss any matters
pertaining to your child’s progress or
wellbeing. If you are considering a
boarding school for your child, take the
opportunity to find out more about the
on-site accommodation, flexi-boarding
options and what activities take place
over the weekends.
Chat to pupils as well as staff and ask
them about their experiences at the
school. Much can be learned from
observing their behaviour – do they seem
happy, confident and at ease in their
environment, are they engaged with their
lessons and wider activities?
Make a follow-up appointment
An open day allows you to build an
impression of what type of school is on
offer. So, if you are happy with what you
see, book a follow-up appointment with
the school. This will enable you to speak
more personally with the headteacher or
registrar and provide another opportunity
to ask any further questions or raise
concerns you might have.
The independent sector is diverse, with a
huge array of schools and approaches to
education on offer. Make the most of your
open days, and use the experience to
guide you as you choose the right school
for your child.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 15
Promotional Partnership
HOE BRIDGE SENIOR SCHOOL
OPENS ITS DOORS
Completing the Through School Journey from 6 Months to 16 Years
Hoe Bridge School, in Woking in Surrey, is delighted to announce the official
opening of Hoe Bridge Senior School, extending its educational offering
to include Years 9 to 11 and marking a significant milestone in the school’s
continued growth...
This exciting development means that Hoe Bridge is now a fully
established Through School, providing a seamless educational
journey for children from 6 months old through to 16 years of
age. Families can now benefit from a continuous, nurturing and
inspiring education all within one school community, from the
earliest stages of childhood right through to GCSE preparation.
The opening of the Senior School reflects Hoe Bridge’s
commitment to delivering an exceptional education that
combines academic excellence with outstanding pastoral care
and a rich programme of opportunities beyond the classroom.
Pupils joining Years 9 to 11 will benefit from a broad and
ambitious curriculum designed to prepare them for GCSE
success and future aspirations. Alongside academic
achievement, pupils will continue to enjoy the personalised
approach, strong sense of belonging and innovative learning
experiences that have become hallmarks of a Hoe Bridge
education.
The expansion also strengthens the school’s vision of providing
continuity for families, allowing pupils to progress confidently
through every stage of their educational journey within a familiar,
supportive and inspiring environment.
“Our Senior School opening is a tremendously exciting moment
for the entire Hoe Bridge community,” said Chris, Webster,
Headmaster at Hoe Bridge School. “Being able to offer
education from 6 months to 16 years means we can support
children and their families throughout their whole school
journey, helping every pupil to thrive academically, socially
and personally. We are proud to complete our Through School
offering and look forward to welcoming our first Years 9 to 11
students.”
As the newest chapter in the Hoe Bridge story begins, the
school remains committed to fostering curiosity, confidence,
resilience and a lifelong love of learning. With state-of-the-art
science laboratories and a dedicated GCSE Hub, this is an
exciting moment for independent senior school education in
Woking and the surrounding area.
The launch of Hoe Bridge Senior School represents not only an
expansion in age range, but the fulfilment of a vision: a complete
independent educational pathway where children can learn,
grow and succeed from their very first steps through to their
GCSE years.
Families interested in discovering more about Hoe Bridge Senior
School are warmly invited to register online at
www.hoebridgeschool.co.uk for the school’s upcoming
Open Morning on 22 September 2026. Visitors will have the
opportunity to explore the new facilities, meet staff and pupils,
and experience first-hand the vibrant and welcoming community
that makes Hoe Bridge such a special place to learn.
16 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
HOE BRIDGE SCHOOL
Open
Morning
Saturday 26 th
September 2026
9:30am - 12:30pm
A vibrant and nurturing
co-educational school community
from nursery through to GCSE
TASTER DAYS
AND CHILDCARE
VOUCHERS AVAILABLE
February 2024.
Open Day 20th
are vouchers available.
Taster days and childc
ional setting from Nursery to GCSE A vibrant and nurturing co-educat
rrey, GU6 7NS
oKSchool
Duke of Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, GU6 7NS
www.dukeofkentschool.org.uk
Duke Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Su
www.dukeofkentschool.org.uk 01483 277313
@dukeofkentschool Duke of of Kent Kent School School DoKSchool
@D
Introducing Andy Day's
Roarsome New Series!
Andy Day – who is loved by children as one of the
best-known stars of preschool television, including
the hugely popular ‘Andy’s Adventures’ and ‘Andy
and the Band’ – brings his signature humour and
energy to this dino-tastic new young fiction series!
Deep in a land where mountains rumble and volcanoes
roar…Where deserts and oceans are alive with excitement…
Dinosaurs gather for the most thrilling sport in history, to
watch the…
DINO RACERS!
It’s race day at Rumble Ridge, and the Dino Racers are getting
ready to put their totally roarsome race cars through their paces.
Join Trexy, Bumper, Stretch, Flappa and Zoomer as they compete
in the Jungle and Lava Cups, and navigate not just the track but
tricky teammates too. Who will get stuck in the mud – and who
will speed their way to glory?
DINO BOY SAVES THE ZOO
Dylan is a pretty ordinary kid. Except for one thing: when he
sneezes, he turns into a dinosaur!
He’s one of a kind. Or is he . . .?
When Dylan goes on a school trip to the zoo, his dinosneezes
make him the main attraction - until he hears a
BUUUUURRRRRPPP and a ROOOAAAARRR that changes
everything. Will Dylan be able to prove he’s the best dino
kid ever?
With over 30 different dinosaurs to discover in this story, this is
a brilliantly funny, heartwarming adventure that shows us how
extraROARdinary true friendship can be.
“I have had so much fun writing Dino Dad and Dylan the Dino
Boy, and I could not be more excited to be sharing my brand-new
series, Dino Racers! I’m so lucky to have a career in children’s TV
that’s lasted since 2007 and is still going! Now I feel even luckier
to have been welcomed so warmly into the wonderful world of
children’s books – and connecting with so many readers over the
past two years.
When thinking about what I wanted to write next, I looked back
on the moments I fell in love with books – and the times I’ve seen
my own little ones fall in love with books, too. I wanted to write
a story that helps younger readers find this spark – a book that
children who might be more easily distracted (or be tempted to
choose a video game) would really love, and would want to keep
reading! Dino Racers was my answer!
Find Andy’s Dino Dad and Dino Racer books on
www.penguin.co.uk
Inspire, support,
flourish, grow, aspire
OPEN MORNING
Friday 2 October 2026
10.30am –12.30pm
Independent co-education
age 9 months – 13 years
www.amesburyschool.co.uk
Hazel Grove, Hindhead
Surrey GU26 6BL
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 19
The Late-Summer
TABLE
Make the most of the delicious overlap
between summer and autumn with three
colourful seasonal recipes
ROASTED PEACH, TOMATO AND BURRATA SALAD
Serves 4 as a starter or light lunch
Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins
Roasting the fruit briefly intensifies
its sweetness, while creamy
burrata, fragrant basil and toasted
almonds make this simple salad feel
wonderfully indulgent.
INGREDIENTS
4 ripe peaches or nectarines,
stoned and cut into wedges
400g mixed cherry tomatoes, larger
ones halved
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp runny honey
2 x 150g balls of burrata
A handful of fresh basil leaves
30g flaked almonds
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or glaze
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black
pepper
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C
fan/gas mark 7. Arrange the peach
wedges and tomatoes on a large
baking tray, drizzle with the olive oil
and honey, season, and toss gently.
Roast for 12–15 minutes, until the
peaches are lightly caramelised and
the tomatoes have softened but still
hold their shape.
Meanwhile, toast the almonds in
a dry frying pan for two or three
minutes until golden.
Leave the fruit to cool for five
minutes, then spoon onto a serving
platter with the tray juices. Tear over
the burrata and scatter with the
basil and almonds.
Finish with balsamic vinegar or
glaze, extra virgin olive oil and black
pepper, and serve slightly warm.
20 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
LEMON AND
HERB CHICKEN
TRAYBAKE
with Courgettes and Feta
Serves 4–6
Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins
Crisp-skinned chicken, golden potatoes and
tender courgettes roast together in a lemony
herb dressing. Crumbled feta added towards
the end brings a fresh, salty finish.
INGREDIENTS
750g baby new potatoes, halved if large
2 courgettes, cut into thick rounds
2 unwaxed lemons
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme, or several fresh thyme
sprigs
6 large skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
150ml chicken stock
150g feta
A small handful of fresh thyme leaves
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 210°C/190°C fan/gas
mark 6½.
Place the potatoes in a large roasting tin.
Finely grate the zest of one lemon over them,
then add the garlic, two tablespoons of olive
oil, oregano, thyme and plenty of seasoning.
Toss everything together.
Arrange the chicken thighs among the
potatoes, skin-side up. Rub the remaining
olive oil over the chicken and season well.
Cut the zested lemon into wedges and tuck
these around the chicken. Pour the stock into
the base of the tin, avoiding the chicken skin
so that it can become crisp.
Roast for 30 minutes.Remove the tin from the
oven and add the courgette rounds. Turn them
through the cooking juices without disturbing
the chicken too much.
Return to the oven for another 20 minutes,
until the potatoes are tender and the chicken
is golden and completely cooked through.
Crumble the feta over the tray and add a few
slices or wedges of the remaining lemon.
Roast for a final five minutes.
Scatter with fresh thyme and spoon the
lemony pan juices over the potatoes and
courgettes before serving.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 21
BLACKBERRY AND
APPLE GALETTE
Serves 6–8
Prep: 25 mins, plus chilling | Cook: 40–45 mins
This free-form tart is much easier than a traditional
pie but looks beautifully impressive. Apples provide
structure while blackberries collapse into a glossy,
jewel-coloured filling.
INGREDIENTS
For the pastry
250g plain flour
40g caster sugar
A pinch of fine salt
150g cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1 egg yolk
2–4 tbsp ice-cold water
For the filling
3 medium eating apples
200g blackberries
60g light brown or caster sugar
1½ tbsp cornflour
Finely grated zest of ½ lemon
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
To finish
1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp demerara sugar
Crème fraîche, softly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream,
to serve
METHOD
Place the flour, sugar and salt in a bowl. Rub in the cold
butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs,
then add the egg yolk and two tablespoons of ice-cold
water. Mix with a knife, adding a little more water if
needed, until the dough comes together. Shape into a
disc, wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6 and
heat a large flat baking sheet inside.
Core and thinly slice the apples, then toss with the
blackberries, sugar, cornflour, lemon zest and juice,
cinnamon and vanilla. The cornflour will thicken the
juices and help keep the pastry crisp.
Roll the pastry between two sheets of baking paper into
a rough 34cm circle. Remove the top sheet and arrange
the fruit in the centre, leaving a 5cm border. Leave
behind any excess liquid in the bowl.
Fold the pastry edges over the fruit, pleating as you go.
Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with demerara sugar.
Transfer the galette, on its baking paper, to the hot tray
and bake for 40–45 minutes, until deeply golden and
bubbling. Leave to rest for 15 minutes so the filling can
settle, then serve warm or at room temperature with
crème fraîche, cream or vanilla ice cream.
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 23
SMALL CAR .
BIG PERSONALITY.
With the Honda Super-N promising to
inject some much-needed fun into the
world of electric cars, motoring writer
Katie Thomson gets behind the wheel
to find out whether this compact city
EV lives up to the hype...
At a time when so many new cars seem to be getting larger,
heavier and more serious, the Honda Super-N feels like a very
welcome change of pace. Compact, playful and distinctly
Honda, it is a small electric car with a sense of humour — and
one that looks set to bring a little more fun back to everyday
driving.
Promotional Partnership
Designed with city life firmly in mind, the Super-N is only 3.6
metres long, making it ideal for tight streets, busy school runs,
crowded car parks and the sort of short daily journeys where
a large SUV can feel like overkill. But while its proportions are
small, its character is anything but. With its upright stance, neat
detailing and retro-inspired personality, it has the feel of a car
that has been designed to make people smile, not simply move
them from A to B.
Honda has always been good at making clever small cars, and
the Super-N appears to follow that tradition. It is light, agile and
easy to place on the road, with the sort of footprint that should
make urban driving far less stressful. For many households,
this could be exactly the kind of electric car that makes sense:
affordable to run, easy to park and practical enough for day-today
life without pretending to be something it is not.
The really interesting part, though, is that Honda has not simply
created a sensible city EV. It has given the Super-N a properly
playful edge. Alongside the usual ECON, City, Normal and Sport
driving modes, there is a unique BOOST mode, which raises
the power output from 47kW to 70kW and adds a simulated
seven-speed transmission and engine sound. It is a slightly
mischievous idea, but very Honda: engineering used not just for
efficiency, but for enjoyment.
That sense of fun should help the Super-N stand apart in
an increasingly crowded electric market. Small EVs can
sometimes feel worthy rather than exciting, but this one seems
to understand that personality matters. It is the sort of car that
could appeal not only to first-time EV buyers, but also to drivers
who miss the charm of old-school small hatchbacks — cars that
were light, easy to drive and full of character.
Inside, the Super-N promises a good balance of practicality
and technology. Honda’s safety suite, Honda SENSING, is fitted
as standard, bringing features such as automatic emergency
braking, adaptive cruise control, lane warnings and steering
assistance. Premium Bose sound also adds to the sense that
this is not a stripped-back budget runaround, but a small car
with a surprisingly generous specification.
The official city range is up to 199 miles, which should be more
than enough for most urban and suburban drivers. As with any
electric car, longer motorway journeys will need a little more
thought, but that is not really the Super-N’s natural habitat. This
is a car built for the real rhythm of daily life: commuting, errands,
nursery runs, shopping trips and spontaneous weekends close
to home.
What makes the Honda Super-N so appealing is that it does not
feel like another anonymous electric box. It feels distinctive. It
feels useful. Most importantly, it feels fun. And in a market that
can often take itself far too seriously, that might be its biggest
strength.
24 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
THE ALL-NEW ELECTRIC
SUPER-N HAS ARRIVED.
Representative Example Personal Contract Purchase
*
– Honda Super-N Advance Boost Violet Pearl
REPRESENTATIVE FINANCE EXAMPLE:
Product Type
PCP
Duration
49 Months
48 Monthly Payments £199.00
Customer Deposit £2,999.00
Brand Deposit Contribution £549.00
Total Deposit £3,548.00
On the Road Price £18,995.00
Amount of Credit £15,447.00
Optional Final Payment £7,218.01
Total Payable £20,328.01
Total Payable by Customer £19,779.01
OTP Fee £10.00
Interest Rate (fixed) 2.84%
Representative
2.9% APR
Annual Mileage 6,000
Excess Mileage
6.32ppm (incl. VAT)
CALL YEOMANS HONDA TODAY TO BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE
YEOMANS HONDA GUILDFORD
PITCH PLACE, WORPLESDON ROAD, GUILDFORD, SURREY GU3 3LD
01483 234 080 WWW.YEOMANS.CO.UK/HONDA
Terms and Conditions: New retail Super-N ordered with Honda (UK) and finance approved by Honda Finance Europe from 22 June 2026 to 30 September 2026. Subject to
model and colour availability. This offer may be used in conjunction with selected Honda offers, subject to eligibility. 1 OTR (On the Road) Price may be subject to change due to
actual or unexpected changes in tariffs, duties taxes or other costs which may affect importation or other costs of supply.? 2 Honda Deposit Contribution: £549 Honda Deposit
Contribution on all new retail Super-N purchased through Honda Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) or Honda Hire Purchase (HP).? 3 2.9% APR representative Honda Personal
Contract Purchase (PCP): Maximum deposit 35%. At the end of the agreement, there are three options: i) Retain: Pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle, ii) Return:
Return the vehicle, or iii) Renew: Part exchange your Honda for a new one. You do not have to pay the Final Payment if you return the car at the end of the agreement and
you have paid all other amounts due, the vehicle is in good condition and has been serviced in accordance with the Honda service book and the maximum annual mileage
has not been exceeded. Excess mileage charge excludes VAT at current rate. Honda Motor Europe Limited and Honda Retailers are credit brokers, not lenders. Honda Motor
Europe Limited or Honda Retailers are not authorised to provide financial advice or recommendations because they are not independent financial advisors. Honda Finance
Europe plc does not make a payment and / or reward to the Honda Retailers or Honda Motor Europe Limited if you enter into a finance agreement with them. Honda Retailers
may introduce you to Honda Finance Europe Plc or to other finance providers. Where another finance provider is used, your Honda Retailer is required to inform you of any
commission or reward paid to the Honda Retailer. You may request further information about these arrangements from your Honda Retailer. Honda Motor Europe Limited
(“HME”) (company number 857969), trading as Honda (UK), a company authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking activities under Financial
Services Register No. 996942. Credit is provided by Honda Finance Europe Plc (“HFE”) (company number 3289418), trading as Honda Financial Services, a company authorised
and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under Financial Services Register no. 312541. Both HME and HFE are registered in England and Wales with their registered
offices being located at Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 1HL.
Personal Contract Plan: Offer subject to availability. Finance subject to status. T&Cs and exclusions apply. Applicants must be 18+. Guarantee may be required. At the end of the
agreement there are three options: i) Part exchange the vehicle where equity is available ii) Pay the optional final payment to own the vehicle, iii) Return the vehicle. Excess
mileage and vehicle condition charges may apply if you return the vehicle. You will only own the vehicle if you pay the optional final payment.
We do not charge fees for our Consumer Credit services. We may receive a payment(s) or other benefits from finance providers should you decide to enter into an agreement
with them. The payment we receive may vary between finance providers and product types. The payment received does not impact the finance rate offered. Calls may be
recorded for quality or training purposes. 51931
THE SMART AUTUMN
HOME UPGRADE
As summer gives way to autumn,
the way we use our homes changes
almost overnight. Garden doors
are closed a little earlier, evenings
are spent indoors again, and small
frustrations we ignored through
warmer months suddenly become
harder to miss: the draught by the
back door, tired kitchen flooring, a
chilly bathroom, a gloomy hallway,
or a garden room that is too cold to
use once temperatures drop.
Autumn is a natural time to reassess
the home. It sits neatly between the
ease of summer and the demands
of winter, offering a useful window
to plan improvements that make
day-to-day life warmer, smarter and
more comfortable. Whether you
are planning to stay put or thinking
about a future move, well-chosen
upgrades can make a home more
enjoyable now while supporting its
long-term appeal.
The smartest autumn improvements
are not always the biggest or most
expensive. Often, they are the ones
that solve everyday problems:
better glazing, warmer floors,
improved lighting, more storage,
efficient heating, or a kitchen that
works properly for family life.
START WITH
WARMTH AND
COMFORT
Before choosing colours, finishes
or statement pieces, it is worth
thinking about the basics: heat,
light, insulation and flow. A beautiful
room will never feel truly inviting if it
is draughty, poorly lit or expensive
to keep warm.
Windows and doors are a good
place to begin. Older glazing can
allow heat to escape, making rooms
harder to warm and bills more
difficult to manage. Modern double
or triple glazing, composite doors,
aluminium systems and well-fitted
bi-folds or sliding doors can all
help improve comfort, security and
appearance. For period homes,
specialist companies can often
advise on sympathetic options
DESIGN TIP
Think about where an upgrade
will have the biggest daily impact.
Kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms,
hallways and bedrooms usually
work hardest in autumn and
winter. Prioritise improvements
that make these spaces warmer,
brighter or more practical.
that improve performance without
compromising character.
Heating is another area where a
thoughtful upgrade can transform
everyday living. Underfloor
heating, efficient radiators, smart
thermostats and improved boiler
or heat pump systems can all
help create a more consistent
temperature. Bathrooms, kitchens
and open-plan living spaces
particularly benefit from properly
planned heating, as these are
often the rooms used most during
autumn and winter.
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
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DESIGN TIP
Heating and lighting should be part
of the design from the beginning.
Underfloor heating, radiator
positions, sockets, dimmers, task
lighting and exterior lighting all
need early planning.
It is also worth considering the
less visible improvements. Loft
insulation, draught-proofing,
secondary glazing, roof repairs
and better ventilation may not offer
the instant visual impact of a new
kitchen, but they can make a major
difference to how a home feels and
performs.
KITCHENS THAT
WORK HARDER
The kitchen often comes back into
focus in autumn. After a summer of
lighter meals and outdoor eating,
cooler weather brings slow cooking,
baking, Sunday lunches, school
routines and Christmas planning. It
is the room where practical design
really matters.
A full redesign can be one
of the most rewarding home
improvements, but smaller
Olive & Barr
changes can also have strong
impact. Replacing tired worktops,
updating cupboard fronts, installing
better lighting or rethinking storage
can make the space feel refreshed
without starting from scratch.
For those planning a complete
project, autumn is a good time to
speak to local kitchen designers,
particularly if you hope to have
work completed ahead of spring
entertaining next year.
The best kitchens balance form
and function. Deep drawers,
pantry cupboards, boiling water
taps, integrated recycling, durable
flooring and layered lighting all help
a kitchen cope with real family life.
Natural materials, warm neutrals,
soft greens, rich woods and aged
brass finishes remain popular
choices for creating a space that
feels both current and timeless.
BATHROOMS
AS EVERYDAY
RETREATS
Bathrooms have moved far beyond
the purely practical. As routines
become busier in autumn, a welldesigned
bathroom can offer a
Lindi Wall Light, £125, lightsandlamps.com
small but meaningful sense of
calm at the beginning and
end of the day.
For some homeowners, the
priority is comfort: better heating,
improved ventilation, non-slip
flooring or a more powerful
shower. For others, it may be
about creating a spa-like feel
with natural stone, brushed brass
fittings, soft lighting, large-format
tiles or a freestanding bath. Even
cloakrooms and en-suites can feel
special with careful design, mirrors,
wall lights or bespoke storage.
Autumn is also a useful time to
tackle bathroom issues because
condensation and poor ventilation
become more noticeable as
windows stay closed. Extractor
fans, heated mirrors and good
airflow should be considered as
carefully as tiles and taps.
FLOORING,
LIGHTING AND
FINISHING
TOUCHES
Few upgrades alter the mood of a
room as quickly as flooring. It affects
warmth, acoustics, maintenance and
style, and is especially noticeable in
autumn when people spend more
time indoors.
Carpet remains popular for
bedrooms, staircases and sitting
rooms, adding softness and warmth
underfoot. In hallways, kitchens
and boot rooms, practicality
often comes first. Engineered
wood, luxury vinyl tiles, porcelain,
stone and laminate can all offer
hardwearing surfaces that cope
with muddy shoes, pets and
everyday traffic. If you are replacing
flooring, it may also be worth
considering underfloor heating,
particularly in kitchens, bathrooms
and extensions.
Lighting is equally important. As
evenings draw in, poor lighting
can make rooms feel flat, cold or
impractical. The most successful
schemes use layers: ceiling lights
for general illumination, wall lights
and lamps for atmosphere, and
task lighting for cooking, reading or
28 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Cranleigh Bathroom Studios
TA Cranleigh Tiles & Bathrooms
FLAT ROOFING SPECIALISTS SINCE 1971 | FAMILY RUN BUSINESS
CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
Range of tiles, bathrooms and showers from Ca’Pietra Tiles, Heritage Bathrooms,
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Saturday 9.00am to Midday | Sunday Closed
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246 High Street, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8RL
Telephone 01483 272727 | craig@cranleighbathroomstudios.co.uk
www.cranleighbathroomstudios.co.uk
Call 01483 651181
email: emma@jonesbrosroofing.co.uk
www.jonesbrosroofing.co.uk
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• 10, 15 and 20 year
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G I F T S T O G I V E , P I E C E S T O K E E P
Joyful homewares, thoughtful treats and colourful little luxuries from Haus Life
Visit us at 3 Abbeygate Street, Bath • Shop online at hauslife.co.uk
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 29
working. Exterior lighting
can also improve safety
and security as darker
evenings return.
FLEXIBLE
SPACE FOR
MODERN
LIVING
Braywick
Pendant, £180,
darlighting.co.uk
One of the lasting
shifts in home design
has been the demand
for flexible space. Garden
rooms, studios, insulated
outbuildings and converted
garages can provide
valuable extra room without
the disruption of a major
extension.
In autumn, the quality of
a garden room becomes
especially important. A
summerhouse that works in
July may not be comfortable
in November unless it has
proper insulation, heating,
lighting and ventilation. If
the space is intended as
a home office, gym, guest
room, creative studio or
teenage den, it needs to
cater for year-round use.
Storage is another practical
upgrade worth considering.
Coats, boots, school bags,
sports kit and umbrellas
all need somewhere to
go. Built-in cabinetry, boot
rooms, utility spaces,
under-stairs storage and
fitted wardrobes can make a
home feel calmer and more
spacious while making daily
routines easier.
ADD VALUE
BY SOLVING
REAL
PROBLEMS
It is tempting to think of
home improvements purely
in terms of resale value,
but the most worthwhile
upgrades usually begin with
real-life problems. A cold
room, dated bathroom,
cramped kitchen, leaking
roof, dark entrance or
DESIGN
TIP
Not every upgrade
adds the same value
to every home. Before
committing to a
major project, speak
to experienced local
specialists, from glazing
companies and kitchen
designers to flooring
experts, electricians
and heating engineers.
underused garden can all
affect how much you enjoy
your home.
Estate agents often point
to kitchens, bathrooms,
energy efficiency, kerb
appeal and flexible living
space as areas that
influence buyer perception.
However, quality matters.
Poorly finished work,
cheap materials or badly
planned layouts can do
more harm than good.
Investing in skilled local
trades, proper design and
durable materials is often
more cost-effective in the
long run than choosing the
quickest fix.
Autumn is a season of
preparation, but it is also a
season of possibility. With
the right improvements, a
home can become warmer,
brighter, more efficient and
more enjoyable through the
months ahead.
Cascada Lily White Oak Extra Matt Hardwood Floor, quick-step.co.uk
Nkuku
30 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
INDIAN
SUMMER
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
From artisan-made parasols to
vibrant beach bags, lightweight
cotton kimonos and stylish
sunglasses, HausLife’s carefully
curated summer collection blends
craftsmanship with colour, making
warm-weather living feel effortless,
expressive and beautifully
considered.
SHADE IN STYLE
Their hand-block printed parasols
are a true standout. Made in
India using traditional techniques,
each one is bold, characterful
and unique. Whether shading a
garden lunch, brightening a patio
or creating a calm corner outdoors,
these parasols instantly elevate any
summer setting. With rich prints
such as Citrus Grove and Azure
Palm, they are as practical as they
are striking.
THE PERFECT
SUMMER CARRY-ALL
For beach days, holidays and
everyday outings, HausLife’s quilted
cotton beach bags are roomy,
lightweight and full of personality.
Available in a range of vibrant
prints, they are perfect for carrying
towels, sunscreen, books and all
the extras summer adventures
demand. Their generous size also
makes them ideal for markets,
weekends away or simply adding
colour to everyday errands.
EASY SUMMER
DRESSING
Pair your beach bag with one of
HausLife’s cotton kimonos: soft,
breathable and effortlessly stylish.
Made from pure Indian cotton, they
are the perfect throw-on layer for
slow mornings, poolside lounging,
beach cover-ups or warm evenings
in the garden.
With dozens of colourways and
prints to choose from, they offer
an easy way to bring colour
and comfort into your summer
wardrobe. Lightweight enough to
pack in a suitcase and versatile
enough to wear at home, they make
dressing for summer feel relaxed
but still put-together.
SUNGLASSES YOU’LL
ACTUALLY WEAR
HausLife’s sunglasses combine
everyday practicality with easy
summer style, with robust frames,
recycled materials and 100% UV
Category 3 protection. From classic
tortoiseshell to bolder colourways,
each pair includes a soft suedette
pouch, making them a useful treat
or an easy gift.
SET THE SCENE FOR
SUMMER
For outdoor
hosting,
HausLife’s
hand-block
printed tablecloths, napkins and
parasols bring instant colour
and charm to garden lunches,
barbecues and relaxed evening
drinks. Simply lay the table, add
something cold to drink and let the
setting do the rest.
Find HausLife at 3 Abbeygate Street
in Bath or shop online, with free UK
shipping over £60.
hauslife.co.uk
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 31
Notes from the garden...
WATERING WOES AND
BOUNTIFUL BEES
By Angela Cave
It’s that time of the year and our gardens are
still growing and producing for us - but they
are thirsty and have worked hard! Watering
is key now and conserving water equally
so. The best time to water is in the evening
so that the roots have the coolest part of
the day to absorb the moisture and it is less
likely to evaporate.
I am sure we are now very aware of not
wasting water. I keep a bucket in my kitchen
so when I have washed vegetables I put the
water in the bucket for use later. Likewise
my dehumidifier - I have an old house - is
very generous too!
Bird baths, water for bees and insects
to drink, they all need attention and my
blackbird loves a cool evening splash about.
Not in the birdbath for some reason but in a
small poultry feeder I keep filled with water
for insects - fussy blackbird!
I have several water butts too and any rain
to replenish them is a treasured joy.
The cooler weather has brought out the
bees and butterflies again too. We can
all keep a lookout for tired bees and bee
organisations recommend carrying a little
sugar water vial in case we come across
one. 70% of bees live in the ground so
do be aware when digging - bees need
all the help they can get. There are some
great books and posters available to teach
children about bees too, so important to
ensure we care for one of our most precious
garden visitors. The British Bee Charity, The
Bumblebee Conservation Trust and The
British Beekeeper’s Association have great
advice on bees, plants to attract bees and
bee information too - check them out.
The summer has seen us all out in our
gardens more and now is a good time to
consider how we have used it. What bits
work, what bits don’t work and what we
would like to enjoy next year….
That is one of the joys of gardening - there
is always something new to plan.
‘It was the bumble bee and the
butterfly who survived, not the
dinosaur’ – Meridel Le Sueur
Angela trained at Lackham College before
spending a year at the Sir Harold Hillier
Gardens in Romsey. While at Lackham,
she won the RHS Student Award and
later became a member of the Guild of
Horticultural Trade Show Judges, judging
at prestigious events including the Royal
Bath & West Show, the Shrewsbury Flower
Show, and the Royal Cornwall Show.
Although no longer actively involved in
horticulture, her garden is bursting with
plants, and she spends her days off
tending to it while constantly resisting the
temptation to buy “just one more plant!”
The largest showsite in the UK with over
200 buildings, 5,000 stone ornaments &
100 furniture sets on display
Set in a magical landscape of water and wildlife, Bourne
Buildings is not your typical garden buildings showsite.
Well known for its vast selection of garden buildings and
expert advice, Bourne Buildings offer standard, as well as
made-to-order designs of varying qualities and styles, fit
for all budgets.
Our complete range of services include product installation,
base laying and a re-felting service.
On display at our showsite in Farnham, we have over:
• 60 Sheds • 60 Summerhouses • 35 Playhouses
• 35 Greenhouses • 20 Garden Offices & Garden Rooms
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Open 5 days a week Thursday – Monday. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. See our website for opening hours.
01252 718481 sales@bournebuildings.co.uk www.bournebuildings.co.uk
Bourne Buildings Ltd, 39-43 Guildford Road, Farnham, Surrey GU9 9PY
32 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Pre-Marital and Inherited Wealth:
Protected or Shared in Divorce?
PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP
One of the most frequent questions we are asked as family
lawyers is whether money or assets brought into the
marriage or inherited during it will be divided on divorce.
There has been a decision in the Supreme
Court, known as Standish v Standish,
providing important guidance on this very
issue and how property deemed to be
‘matrimonial’, and property deemed to be
‘non-matrimonial’ should be dealt with.
The legal issue at the centre of the case
was: When does non-matrimonial property
become matrimonial property and should
this property be shared on divorce?
The key takeaways from the Supreme Court
decision are that:
• The sharing principle applies only
to matrimonial property, not nonmatrimonial
property.
• The law will look at the source of the
assets, rather than what form they are
in and whose name they are in, when
looking at whether they have become
matrimonial.
• The treatment by the spouses of the
asset/s in question and their intentions
are important in assessing whether
they have become matrimonial.
• The transfer of an asset between
spouses in a scheme designed to save
tax, irrespective of the time period
involved, will not normally demonstrate
that the asset is being treated as being
shared and therefore has become
matrimonial.
• Simply transferring assets between
spouses does not automatically
convert them into matrimonial property.
I am divorcing – how does this impact
me?
Family law judges have a wide discretion
under the law and, therefore, decisions
often vary according to each couple’s
circumstances. As such, caution must be
taken when separating couples are looking
at cases like Standish against their own,
particularly as Standish is an ultra-high net
worth case where the financial needs of the
parties did not need to be considered due to
their substantial wealth.
Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements
remain an effective way of protecting
assets and avoid being subject to the
court’s wide discretion. Following Standish,
when contemplating any tax planning,
family lawyers recommend entering into a
pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement in the
event that the relationship breaks down in
the future.
How can we help?
At Family Law Partners, our specialist
family lawyers in Horsham are recognised
as experts in family law by The Times Best
Law Firms, Resolution, Chambers UK and
the Legal 500. If you think that the Standish
case has relevance for your circumstances
you can book a meeting with us to consider
future planning including pre-nuptial or postnuptial
agreements.
01403 599215
enquiries@familylawpartners.co.uk
www.familylawpartners.co.uk
A different approach to
family law
Our Horsham team deliver exceptional client
care and promote the use of alternative
dispute resolution to help minimise both the
emotional and financial cost of separation.
The Family Law Partners office is in
central Horsham. We also advise clients in
Billingshurst, Cranleigh, Crawley, Godalming,
Guildford and surrounding areas.
We can help you with:
Children matters
•
Divorce and Separation
Dissolution of Civil Partnerships
Cohabitation disputes
Prenuptial and Postnuptial agreements
Cohabitation agreements
Mediation and Collaborative Law
For a confidential conversation and to learn
more about our fixed fee appointments
contact our team:
01403 599215
info@familylawpartners.co.uk
www.familylawpartners.co.uk
www.minervamagazines.co.uk | 33
PLANNING WELL
FOR LATER LIFE
Thinking about later life can feel daunting,
particularly when decisions are being
made in response to illness, bereavement
or a sudden change in circumstances.
But planning early can make the years
ahead feel calmer, more secure and more
enjoyable — whether you are considering
your own future or helping an older parent
or relative explore their options.
From choosing where to live to
understanding care, finances and legal
matters, the most useful approach is to take
things one step at a time...
START WITH THE LIFESTYLE, NOT THE
LABEL
One of the biggest decisions in later life is where to live, but it
helps to begin with a simple question: what sort of day-to-day
life would feel good?
For some, staying in a much-loved home is the priority, perhaps
with adaptations, extra support or regular help. For others,
the idea of moving somewhere easier to manage — with less
maintenance, better accessibility and a ready-made community
— can be a positive step rather than a last resort.
Retirement communities vary hugely. Some offer independent
living with private apartments or houses, shared facilities and
social activities. Others provide additional support on site, which
can be reassuring if care needs change over time. When visiting,
look beyond the brochure: ask about service charges, future
care provision, transport links, guest accommodation, meal
options, pets, parking and what happens if needs increase.
UNDERSTANDING CARE OPTIONS
Care is not one-size-fits-all. Support might begin with a few
hours of help at home each week, such as assistance with
meals, medication, washing, dressing or companionship.
Live-in care may suit those who want to remain at home but
need more consistent support. Residential care homes provide
accommodation, meals and personal care, while nursing homes
offer support for people with more complex medical needs.
It is worth arranging a care needs assessment through the local
authority, even if you expect to pay privately. This can help
clarify what level of support is appropriate. Families should also
be realistic about what they can manage themselves. Wanting
to help is natural, but caring can be physically and emotionally
demanding, and outside support can protect relationships as
well as wellbeing.
LEGAL PLANNING: DO IT EARLY
Some of the most important later-life planning should happen
while everyone is well. A will should be up to date and reflect
current wishes. Lasting Powers of Attorney are also vital,
allowing trusted people to make decisions about finances,
property, health and welfare if someone loses capacity in the
future.
Without these documents, families may face delays and stress
at exactly the wrong time. It is sensible to take proper legal
advice, especially where property, blended families, business
interests or inheritance tax may be involved.
MONEY, PROPERTY AND PRACTICALITIES
Later-life financial planning is about clarity. That may include
pension income, savings, investments, property value, care
costs and entitlement to benefits or allowances. A regulated
financial adviser can help families understand what is affordable
now and what might be needed later.
Downsizing can release money and reduce daily strain, but it is
also emotional. Give yourself time to sort possessions gradually,
rather than waiting until a move becomes urgent. Start with
practical categories — paperwork, furniture, clothes, kitchen
items — and involve family where appropriate. The aim is not to
erase a life, but to make the next chapter easier.
KEEP THE CONVERSATION OPEN
The best planning is rarely a single decision. Circumstances
change, and so do people’s wishes. Gentle, regular
conversations are often better than one big family meeting. Ask
what matters most: staying local, keeping a garden, being near
grandchildren, maintaining independence, feeling safe, or having
company close by.
Handled well, later-life planning is not about loss of control. It
is about preserving choice, dignity and peace of mind — so
that when decisions do need to be made, they are guided by
thoughtfulness rather than panic.
34 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk
Grow your world at
HOMEWOOD GROVE
TRY BEFORE
You buy
Living at Homewood Grove doesn’t mean your world gets
smaller - it grows in ways you may never have imagined.
A place where everyday life opens up to new friendships and
experiences, and a renewed sense of connection. With likeminded
neighbours, stunning shared spaces and a vibrant
community, every day brings opportunities to socialise, explore
new interests and enjoy the things you love. From morning
walks to community events, expand your circle, enrich your
lifestyle and create a stronger sense of belonging. Enjoy the
freedom to spend less time worrying about home maintenance
and more time focusing on what truly matters, living well.
Discover something more.
A complimentary
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experience village
life firsthand.*
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available from £416,500 †
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†
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Call 01932 645092
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