Out & About Winter 2018
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Winter 2018
West Berkshire, Nor th Hampshire & East Wiltshire
A Newbury News Ltd publication
Newbury Soup Kitchen offering warmth and kindness
Bearing gifts a selection of ideas for the festive season
Recipes for success Cakes with secret ingredients from local cook Kate Saunders
Fashion Food Features Gardening Travel Competitions
New Year ’s Eve Monday 31st December 2018
New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball J oin your friends and family at our glamourous masquerade ball IRU DQ HYHQLQJ ÀOOHG ZLWK ORYH ODXJKWHU DQG OLYH PXVLF DV ZH FRXQW GRZQ WR &KDPSDJQH UHFHSWLRQ _ $ VSHFWDFXODU ÀYH FRXUVH WDVWLQJ PHQX
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New Year’s Eve Party )RU D PRUH LQIRUPDO JDWKHULQJ MRLQ XV IRU RXU 1HZ 'RQQLQJWRQ 9DOOH\ +RWHO 6SD 2OG 2[IRUG 5RDG _ 1HZEXU\ _ %HUNVKLUH _ 5* $* www.donningtonvalley.co.uk GERALDINE GARDNER EDITOR W e all know the face of the high street is changing. As more people shop online, the large department stores and chains are experiencing lower footfall and many have closed a number of branches nationwide. It begs the question, what can draw people into their local towns? In many instances, apart from the thriving arts scene – the Corn Exchange (p41), Watermill, Arlington Arts, Hungerford Arts and many village arts initivatives – it is the local independent businesses that form the backbone of our communities, because they offer something different and unique. The artisan market in Newbury is a classic example and is often bustling with shoppers ambling along Northbrook Street, looking at craft stalls and sampling different foods. Out & About loves to champion local businesses and in our continuing café culture series (p50) we talked to James Priddy, who celebrates 30 years of running Weavers Coffee Shop and visited the lovely Pineapple Café in Thatcham, attached to Pineapple Palace, full of intriguing knick-knacks and locally-made clothes. We also received a fantastic recipe book from local cook Kate Saunders (p36) and have exclusively reproduced a couple of her recipes for you to try. And one of the team was lucky enough to visit Newbury chocolatier Cocoa Ben’s (p39) to sample the sweet treats on offer – a great idea for a festive gift. Or, for something a bit different, how about a bespoke perfume from Beenham supplier Uncommon Scents (p19)? When we were looking at book suggestions (p77) to read during the cold winter months, we couldn’t resist including the latest historical fiction from local author Charlotte Betts. And local artist Fiona Crooks Smith shows you how to make a decopatch star (p78). There are also a lot of people who give up their time to help others in the community. In the winter months we become particularly aware of those less fortunate and it is heartening to see the work of Newbury Soup Kitchen (p31), which every Thursday sets up at the Salvation Army Hall to provide food and companionship to those in need. We none of us know what 2019 will bring – and I’m not going to mention the B word – so let’s start by celebrating what is on our doorstep and championing the independent shops and creatives across West Berkshire, as well as the many volunteer organisations who provide such a vital service, be proud of the community of which we are a part and encourage enterprise and initiative. Editor’s picks INSIDE THIS ISSUE Cover picture Winter warmer How to 36 KEEPING IT LOCAL A new book by cook Kate 31 THE SOUP OF HUMAN KINDNESS Newbury Soup Kitchen 78 DECOPATCH How to make a colourful Christmas decoration to brighten up your home Saunders of Blackberry Cottage, Ashampstead, makes use of the full A to Z of vegetables provides warmth, food and support to the homeless once a week 3 4 CONTENTS 7 Comment: Jonathan Hopson escapes to the Borders 8 Fashion: Party sparkle and winter coats FEATURES 24 Gifts galore: a selection of gifts from the High Street and local suppliers 31 The soup of human kindness: Newbury Soup Kitchen serves the homeless every Thursday 41 Eat & go to the show: The Corn Exchange provides a full evening of entertainment all under one roof WELLBEING 15 Fitness: A dice game to exercise the body 19 Health & Beauty: Winter skin and hair treatment and some pampering gift ideas 21 Mental wellbeing: what is SAD FOOD & DRINK 36 Keep it local: Recipes to up the vegetable intake; and sweet treats from local chocolatier 44 Restaurant review: Cardamom Restaurant, Pangbourne 46 Top tipples: A selection of Winter warming tipples 50 Café culture: healthy eating, a cup of tea and homemade cake 53 Fish news: swordfish is a good introduction of the taste of fish Winter 2018 A Newbury News Ltd publication LIFESTYLE 54 Layered up: fill your living space with layers to reflect your personality 59 Antiques: the results of the Great Antiques Pursuit 65 Wokefield Park: the hotel has had a makeover following a devastating fire 69 Gardening: tidy up for winter 72 Travel: Caribbean island escape 75 Motors: Peugeot 3008 LEISURE 77 Book review: a selection of good reads 78 How to: decopatch 81 What’s on: a round-up of local winter events 87 Outdoors: embrace the cold outdoors 89 Star gazing: winter night-skies COMPETITION 29 Win: a hamper from Highclere Castle gift shop TO ADVERTISE IN OUT&ABOUT Abigail Reddin 01635 886612 abigail.reddin@newburynews.co.uk General competition rules: The winner(s) will be the first entry(ies) drawn with the correct answer. In the event that a winner must be notified quickly and is unavailable on the daytime number provided, another winner may have to be chosen. Newbury News Limited employees, and employees directly involved in the competition, and their families, are not eligible to enter. The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Responsibility not accepted for entries lost or torn in the post. Postal entries must be on the original form. There are no cash alternatives to the prize. @outnaboutberks Read our digital edition at GROUP EDITOR ANDY MURRILL (01635) 886625 ANDY.MURRILL@NEWBURYNEWS.CO.UK OUT&ABOUT EDITOR GERALDINE GARDNER (01635) 886684 GERALDINE.GARDNER@NEWBURYNEWS.CO.UK ADVERTISING ABIGAIL REDDIN (01635) 886612 ABIGAIL.REDDIN@ NEWBURYNEWS.CO.UK PRODUCTION DESIGN CARRIE FAITHFULL, HELEN LAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY PHIL CANNINGS PUBLISHED ON THURSDAY 22ND NOVEMBER, OUT&ABOUT IS A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE, PUBLISHED BY NEWBURY NEWS LTD, NEWSPAPER HOUSE, FARADAY ROAD, NEWBURY, BERKSHIRE RG14 2DW 5 " ! ! &,* 0 ) +1 +# 1&$ -$"' ) 2"1',+ $/3'"$0 $ * 4,2)# )'($ 1, '+3'1$ 5,2 %,/ /$$ 2"1',+ )2 1',+ ,% 5,2/ $4$))$/5 1"&$0 +1'.2$0 ,))$"1 !)$0 )$ 0$ " )) %,/ + --,'+1*$+1 1,# 5 $ &,)# /$$ )2 1',+ 5 )%'* %$&%($#* 1 -$"' ) 2"1',+ $/3'"$0 /$$+& * 20'+$00 /( )$ 0$ )) 6 JONATHAN HOPSON JONATHAN HOPSON spends some time in the Scottish Borders and, although the salmon fishing was not overly successful, he still enjoyed the spectacular scenery and a lot of cake I had the good fortune to spend a week in Melrose in the Scottish Borders on a family fishing trip on the River Tweed, recently. Sadly, there didn’t seem to be many salmon in the river at this time and, despite everyone’s best endeavours, only four fish were caught all week. However, despite the meagre catch, there was a record of sorts – apart from a few isolated showers, there was an absence of rain! The uncharacteristically good weather promoted a great way to start the day – cycling the 1.6 mile-long climb out of Melrose on the Dingleton road and out of the town towards Lilliesleaf on the B6359. The climb was energy-sapping, but even on an autumnal day, the view at the top of the hill over the fishing loch towards the Eildon hills made the effort worthwhile. A few hours of brisk cycling and the keen Scottish air tended to sharpen the appetite. As a result, I made more than one visit to the uniquely different coffee shop in Lilliesleaf, Jammy Coo, for a welcome pitstop of hot chocolate and a slice or two of delicious homemade Border tart. The delights of traditional Scottish food were also sampled at the fifth generation family bakers in the main street in Melrose, Alex Dalgetty & Sons and the local speciality, Selkirk Bannock (similar to a fruit cake), was particularly good. The undoubted highlight of the week was a three-mile walk to the famous waterfall, The Grey Mare’s Tail near Moffat, about an hour’s drive from Melrose. After a long ascent from the valley floor, the trail leads past the waterfall to Loch Skeen. The scenery is simply spectacular with the craggy peaks towering above the loch and the near-constant wind whipping up the surface of the water and creating foamy trails. These are just a few of the many delights the Borders have to offer. Eidon Hills Jammy Coo The Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall Adam Jacot de Boinod, author of The Meaning of Tingo on interesting words, poses a vocabulary quiz from our local Berkshire dialect. Guess the correct definition from the following three options WINTER WORD CHALLENGE 1) littocks a) small worthless apples remaining on the tree after the crop has been gathered in b) small low clouds in a clear sky c) rags and tatters 2) daffy a) smartly-dressed b) silly, feckless c) attractive, good-looking 3) slocket a) a person who enjoys eating fine food, a glutton b) to pilfer c) to walk with shoes nearly off the feet 4) pycle a) a small field b) a turnstile c) a scarecrow answers on p85 7 FASHION Razzle Get sequined up for the winter party season... MONSOON 8 FASHION FIFI & MOOSE TOP £115.95 OPPOSITE PAGE: PINK SEQUIN DRESS DEBENHAMS £65, BLACK HEELS SHOES F&F £16, MULTI SEQUIN DRESS F&F £40, BRONZE DRESS DEBENHAMS £59, MULTI DRESS DEBENHAMS £160, GLITTER BOOTS MONSOON £59, GOLD SANDLE TK MAXX £24.99, SIVER HEELS FAITH £39, STRIPE DRESS NEXT £70. THIS PAGE: LONG LACE DRESS MONSOON £250, GOLD SEQUIN DRESS MONSOON £99, SHORT SEQUIN DRESS TKMAXX £12.99, BLUE VELVET DRESS DEBENHAMS £39, GREEN VELVET SHOES TK MAXX £14.99, LONG SEQUIN DRESS TK MAXX £79.99, MAGENTA VELVET SHOES F&F £16, BLUE SATIN SHOES TK MAXX £39.99, GLITTER BLOCK HEEL SHOES DEBENHAMS £35. 9 FASHION Baby it’s cold outside Cosy up with these winter warmers... CHECK CAMEL COAT NEXT £98, SRIPE SCARF ACCESSORIZE £20, PURPLE COAT M&S £89, LEOPARD PRINT COAT TK MAXX £39, RED HEELS DEBENHAMS £39, STRIPE BOBBLE HAT NEXT £12, SEQUIN BOBBLE HAT NEXT £ 12, PVC COAT NEXT £70, LEOPARD KITTEN HEELS HOBBS £169. ACCESSORIZE 10 FASHION RIVER ISLAND LONG BOOTS HOBBS £299, RED COAT MONSOON £140, BOBBLE HAT ACCESSORIZE £19, FLATS MATALAN £10, TURQUOISE COAT NEXT £52, LEOPARD PRINT HEELS NEW LOOK £22.99, TAN FAUX FUR COAT M&S £99, BLACK CAP NEW LOOK £12.99, YELLOW FAUX FUR COAT DEBENHAMS £55, SPOT SCARF ACCESSORIZE £15, CHECK COAT HOBBS £349. 11 JUMPING FITNESS ON TRAMPOLINES The Jumping fitness program offered, is not just random jumping on trampolines, but is a selection of highly coordinated exercises and a combination of fast and slow jumps. Jumping is perfect for your body and has numerous benefits - it is high intensity and yet low impact on your joints. You can burn up to 1000 kcal each session, strengthen your pelvic floor, build your abs/six pack and get your full portion of endorphins, while still having fun! Make domestic cleaning a chore of the past... • No Time To Clean? • Too Tired FromWork? Newbury and all surrounding areas 01635 813 200 • Want Someone You Can Trust? • Uniformed and insured Staff Basingstoke here and all surrounding areas 01256 689 346 and all Independently owned and operated Balanced mind in a balanced body Or book your clean online now at: www.dailypoppins.co.uk Buy one session get one free www.jumpingmoni.com email: mail@jumpingmoni.com Telephone Number: 07783374400 “We poppin, so you can pop out” Join us in The Malls for a whole host of festive fun including our traditional Christmas Market, Caringorm Reindeer Day and more. Visit our website for details. facebook.com/TheMallsShoppingCentre www. themalls .co.uk 12 Free Admission 10am - 2.30pm Free Goody Bag Free prize draw WEDDING SHOW January 27th 2019 THE DONN I NGTON GROVE NEWBURY Bridal Fashion show @ 1pm hosted by Bow Belles Bridal The Donnington Grove Hotel, Grove Road, Donnington, Newbury, Berks., RG14 2LA 01635 569400 9 Weavers Walk, Newbury RG14 1AL www.fifiandmoose.co.uk Monday to Friday: 9.30am to 5.30pm / Saturday: 9.30am to 6pm Open Sunday throughout December only WINTER COLLECTION Accessories shoes and hats also available ARE YOU AN INDEPENDENT FASHION BUSINESS? WOULD YOU LIKE TO FEATURE IN OUR FASHION PAGES? VIP TOURS AVAILABLE on request Pre registration available online at www.captivatingevents.co.uk captivating events ltd www.captivatingevents.co.uk 08432 892742 07825 156716 LAY DOWN & STAND UP SUN BEDS NO APPOINTMENTS - JUST WALK IN PRICELIST MINUTES PRICE MINUTES PRICE 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 £3.00 £3.50 £4.00 £4.50 £5.00 £5.50 £6.00 £6.60 £7.20 £7.80 £8.40 £9.00 Please contact me for a quotation OPEN Mon-Thur 10 - 7 abigail.reddin@ newburynews.co.uk Fri 10 - 6 Sat 10 - 5 NEXT TO THE CUTTING BAR - 33 THE KENNET CENTRE NEWBURY Tel: 01635 45756 - ww.sunbedsnewbury.co.uk Tel: 01635 886612 TREATMENT ROOMS at Sunseekers The Special Offer Gel Manicure £20.00 Spray Tan £15.00 Valid until 24th December 18 Call Rebecca on .. 07775 647674 treatmentroomsnewbury.co.uk 13 NAT U RA S PA INGLEWOOD, KINTBURY HA I R SA LON , BEA UT Y TREATMENT S & SPA TREATMENT S WINTER WARMER PACKAGES WARMING BODY BLISS £90 Full body hot stone massage and scalp massage perfect to soothe tired aching muscles! WINTER RESCUE £80 Deep hydration Dermalogica facial and scalp massage, release tension and reduce lines and wrinkles! (All packages come with full use of the facilities, £18 upgrade to include full afternoon tea). All packages available to be purchased as gift vouchers. Valid for 6 months. SEMI-PERMANENT MAKEUP NOW AVAILABLE Natura Spa, Inglewood, Hungerford RG17 9AA www.naturaspa.co.uk | 01488 682298 | contact@naturaspa.co.uk | Facebook ‘Natura Spa Kintbury’ LEARN TO DRAW AND PAINT Vouchers available ideal gift for birthdays & Christmas BRING OUTYOUR INNER ARTIST SA0 470 18 Fun lessons suitable for absolute beginners or improvers Acquire the skills you need to produce paintings you can be proud of! St Marys Church Hall NEWBURY • Absolute Beginners to Improvers - Just Like You • Three hours once a week, mornings or afternoons • Meet New Friends, Learn New Skills • Learn something new in 2019 • All Welcome TAKING ENQUIRIES NOW CALL TODAY 01256 810 933 14 FITNESS - VICKI BROWN H ow do you deal with the challenge of winter – often cold and wet, less daylight and bang-slap in the middle is the festive season. It can leave you feeling overwhelmed, time poor and exhausted. As a result health and fitness tend to take a backseat. To help you strike a balance and keep going, here is a fun fitness workout game that you can do all year round. VICKI BROWN encourages you to finish 2018 and start 2019 with a flourish to create momentum and keep it rolling Roll The Dice Workout Game Equipment: You will need two dice and yourself. 6. Press ups: Start in the hands plank position. Keep your spine in neutral and core engaged. Bend your elbows to 90 degrees, push yourself back up to the starting position. Drop to your knees to make the movement easier. 7. Lunges: Keep upper body straight, shoulders back and relaxed, chin up, core engaged. Step forward with one leg, lowering hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle and reverse. 8. Mountain climbers: Begin in plank position with your right knee by your chest, left leg extended. Switch your bent leg and straight leg simultaneously as if you were running or walking, repeat. 7 Instructions: Roll two dice, every number corresponds to an exercise. Carry out the exercise for 60 seconds, roll again and keep going. If you can’t manage the full 60 seconds at first start at 30 and try to build up each time you play the game. 1. Bear crawl: Start in a push-up position, hands shoulder-width apart, legs straight out behind, keeping the knees bent. Alternate the arm and leg movements forwards and back, while keeping the back straight and the hips and shoulders at the same height. 1 8 9. Burpees: (jump or walk) Drop to floor into a plank position from standing. Thrust (or walk) your knees toward your chest into a low squat position. Jump as high as you can from the low squat position. Land in the standing position with your knees slightly bent. 9 2 2. Plank: Lie face down, engage core, tighten glutes, lift your body off the ground forming a straight line from head to toe, resting on forearms and toes. Hold. If your lower back starts to ache, or you drop or raise your hips out of position either drop to your knees or rest. 11. Wall sit: Put your back against a wall and place feet hip width apart away from the wall, lower yourself to make a 90-degree angle at the hip and knee, hold. 12. Ab cycle: Lay flat with knees bent, feet up level with your knees (90-degree angle). Keeping your feet flat, core engaged, imitate the circular motion of cycling, the lower to the ground you extend the legs the harder it becomes. 3. High knees: (running or walking) Standing upright, raise and lower one knee at a time as if running in place. Bring the knees to the same height as the hips and keep your thighs parallel to the ground. Go as fast as you can. 4. Squats: Stand with feet slightly wider than your hips, toes out. Spine in neutral throughout. Breathe in, keep chest and shoulders up and look forward. Squat down until your hip joint is lower than your knees, parallel. Breathe out, drive through your heels, keep knees out and return to starting position. 5. Sit ups: Lay on your back, knees bent, feet on the floor. Engage core and use your abdominals to lift your shoulders and upper body off the floor to sit up and then control yourself back down to starting position. 10. Star jumps: Start with feet together and arms at your side. Open your legs and bring your arms up and out in one swift motion, then jump back to the start position and repeat. 12 3 Visit www.LiveFitNow.co.uk to access the YouTube video with all of the exercises for the Dice Workout Game Vicki Brown runs: LiveFitNow, Wash Common, Newbury. Telephone: 07879 447829. www.LiveFitNow.co.uk 15 Abstract® Bodyworks Personal Training Life without Weakness We’ve grown bigger! In order to keep up with the increasing demand for our services we’ve trained up two new members of staff! Find out why we are so popular with your first two free sessions ! 11 Kings Road West, Newbury www.pe-newbury.co.uk 01635 551656, pe.newbury@gmail.com , 07450 915462 16 Grow Younger with Age! Many of us regret the loss of physical capability we experience as we age. but that loss is not inevitable and can be reversed by the right kind of exercise Dz ǡ ǯ dz
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ϐǡ ϐ ϐ Ǥ See adver�sement opposite for details of how to book two free personal training sessions. Quote O&AQ42018 We are now both retired and in our mid - sixties, and felt it important to maintain our strength and �itness. After busy working lives it is all too easy to let personal �itness and a healthy diet slip by the wayside, when you are not as active as you used to be. Following on from early training sessions we received documented feedback on our performance, which gave us a very good measure of our progress. It was very encouraging to see that we had gained 17 Treat someone you love to their own bespoke perfume – ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s Day... or just because... or buy them an indulgent spa treatment at Donnington Valley Hotel Spa. And during the cold winter months look after your own skin and hair and treat yourself to some self-indulgence HEALTH & BEAUTY P erfume is always a popular choice for gift- giver, whether for Christmas, birthdays or just because – and with good reason. Fragrance is personal though and it’s sometimes hard to know if the one you’ve selected is the right one. This is where Beenham-based Janette Hammond from Uncommon Scents can help. She works with the Perfume Studio to help people to make bespoke fragrances and offers gift vouchers at Christmas so that you can buy the opportunity for a loved one to make their own personalised bottle of perfume. Janette guides people through the world of bespoke perfume and how to balance the different ingredients, top notes, middle notes and base notes as well as how to structure a lasting fragrance. Not only will you make your own perfume – which you can take home in a presentation bottle or atomiser – but you can also enjoy naming it too. Since setting up her own business, Janette has helped hundreds of people to make their own scent, whether it’s a bride creating a signature fragrance for their wedding day, a bride-to-be Uncommon Scents wanting a fun and unusual hen party activity or a mother and daughter making something special for a birthday. When her sons presented her with a birthday voucher for a perfume-making workshop back in 2008, Janette realised very quickly that this was her vocation. She trained with the Perfume Studio almost immediately after her workshop and is one of only a handful of perfume stylists covering the south east of England. Janette said: “Our sessions are fun, interactive and informative. “You’ll learn a little about the fascinating history of perfume, our sense of smell and how perfume became the massive business it is today. “You’ll also hear some of the stories behind some of the current perfumes we know and love. “When it comes to bespoke fragrances, it doesn’t need to be just the likes of Kylie Minogue and Beyoncé who have all the fun.” For more information, or to buy a voucher for a perfume-making session, book a consultation or workshop call Janette on 07917 818283 or email janette@janettehammond.co.uk, or visit Janette Hammond Indulgent spa experience gifts F or those looking to give the gift of wellbeing, Donnington Valley Hotel and Spa has a number of truly luxurious gift vouchers available for spa treatments, spa days and spa breaks. Donnington Valley offers luxurious spa facilities, including an 18m swimming pool, jacuzzi, aromatherapy room, steam room and sauna, as well as a health club, gym and fitness classes, and golf course. Guests are also invited to enjoy the relaxation room and calming outdoor terrace. Starting from just £25, Donnington Valley Spa gift vouchers are the perfect gift for someone who deserves some serious ‘me time’. The vouchers are charmingly gift wrapped and then posted or can be sent via email. They are valid for six months after purchase, so there is plenty of time to book in the perfect date. Gift vouchers range from a spa treatment from £25 to a Sonona Indulge Spa Day, from £116, or for real indulgence a one-night spa break with 55-minute treatment for two people at £324. So whether you want to treat mum, dad or your best friend – or even yourself – to discover the full range of indulgent gift vouchers on offer visit www.donningtonvalley.co.uk/spa Donnington Valley Hotel & Spa, Old Oxford Rd, T. 01635 551199 | E. general@donningtonvalley.co.uk 18 Freshest range of HOME GROWN trees from fully SUSTAINABLE stock Largest selection of quality Christmas trees in the area A sparkling selection of Christmas lights and decorations Trees from £19.99 Christmas Trees Scrumptious hot drinks and festive food every weekend OPEN from Friday November 23rd 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday 0am to 5.00pm Sunday 9 0 . IN DECEMBER 1st -2nd 8th -9th 15th -16th O N F O R 3 W E E K E N D S H E R E F O R 2 W E E K E N D S Come and meet Father Christmas! Gifts, local crafts, ÄUL MVVKZ OVN YVHZ[ carol singers, rock choir, hand bell ringers 11am - 3pm 1st -2nd 8th -9th The Christmas Barn Yattendon Berkshire RG18 0XA www.yattendon.co.uk t: 01635 203908 Yattendon Estates @YattendonEstate 18 Gorgeous hair Gorgeous Hair Density Shampoo and Conditioner, before double-conditioning by generously coating the hair and scalp with the Intense mask. Massage in and leave for 10 minutes, before rinsing thoroughly. Finish with the Grow Gorgeous Hair Growth Serum Intense, which has been intensely formulated to advance the benefits of our original Hair Growth Serum and can increase the thickness of each hair strand by 13%. Grow Gorgeous Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask, 280ml / 9.4 floz RRP £25. Available in Boots A ndresa Skin Health & Laser Clinic monitors and researches the latest anti-ageing technologies so that they can provide clients with treatments that truly deliver. They specialise in non-surgical non-injectable anti-ageing therapies because it fits with their holistic approach and the Fibroblast Plasma Lift fits in with this ethos. What is it? The ageing process causes skin to lose elasticity and texture, resulting in increased laxity, lines and wrinkles. The Fibroblast Plasma Lift addresses this by tightening and lifting loose skin and reducing wrinkles like never before. It is suitable for just about anywhere on the face or body, but typical uses would be to tighten upper and lower eyelids, jawline and neck. Facial wrinkles – in particular crows’ feet, lines around the eyes, and smokers’ lines around the mouth can be reduced more effectively than by cosmetic injections or surgery. Do I see an immediate result? Yes – the skin is noticeably tighter immediately after treatment and further improves as the Anti-ageing skin treatment Revive locks, thicken strands and softly nourish the hair and scalp with the new Grow Gorgeous Intense Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask. This deeply moisturising treatment hydrates, while its caffeine-enriched formula breathes life into lacklustre locks, giving your hair the boost it needs to feel thicker, fuller and more volumised. Grow Gorgeous visibly increase hair thickness and softly nourish the scalp with this unique multi-mask. Especially created to deeply hydrate hair without weighing it down, the new Intense Thickening Hair & Scalp Mask from Grow Gorgeous has been proven, after regular use, to make hair feel fuller and thicker. The amino acid-enriched formula enhances flat and lacklustre locks, feeding every strand to ensure hair is healthy, thick and fuller-looking. Coconut oil and hyaluronic acid intensely moisturise and soothe the scalp, while caffeine wakes up the hair and stimulates the roots, keeping it in optimum condition to achieve ultimate hair health. Created for those who find their locks becoming thin, fine and feeling defeated, the Intense range contains a powerful complex of actives that work intensely to visibly increase hair density, thicken strands and increase volume. For best results, begin by washing hair with the Grow changes to collagen production, blood supply and immune response in the dermis take place and the new generation of epidermal cells at the basal layer occur. How long do results last? Results typically last two to three years. Other benefits The results are longer-lasting than injections, the treatment is more precisely controlled than surgery, downtime is minimal and recovery time faster, and in terms of eyelid treatment, it is the only non-surgery option. There isn’t even any need for an injectable anaesthetic and there is no incision scar. To find out more about the Fibroblast Plasma Lift and how it could reverse the signs of ageing skin for you, please call to book a complimentary consultation. Andresa Aesthetics Exclusive Skin Health & Laser Clinic, Lower Wasing Barn, Nr Woolhampton tel: 01635 800183 | info@andresa.co.uk www.andresa.co.uk 19 Treat someone you love to their own bespoke perfume – ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s Day... or just because... or buy them an indulgent spa treatment at Donnington Valley Hotel Spa. And during the cold winter months look after your own skin and hair and treat yourself to some self-indulgence HEALTH & BEAUTY P erfume is always a popular choice for gift- giver, whether for Christmas, birthdays or just because – and with good reason. Fragrance is personal though and it’s sometimes hard to know if the one you’ve selected is the right one. This is where Beenham-based Janette Hammond from Uncommon Scents can help. She works with the Perfume Studio to help people to make bespoke fragrances and offers gift vouchers at Christmas so that you can buy the opportunity for a loved one to make their own personalised bottle of perfume. Janette guides people through the world of bespoke perfume and how to balance the different ingredients, top notes, middle notes and base notes as well as how to structure a lasting fragrance. Not only will you make your own perfume – which you can take home in a presentation bottle or atomiser – but you can also enjoy naming it too. Since setting up her own business, Janette has helped hundreds of people to make their own scent, whether it’s a bride creating a signature fragrance for their wedding day, a bride-to-be wanting a fun and unusual hen party activity Uncommon Scents Anti-ageing skin treatment A ndresa Skin Health & Laser Clinic with treatments that truly deliver. Their holistic approach means they specialise in non-surgical non-injectable anti-ageing therapies such as the Fibroblast Plasma Lift. What is it? The ageing process causes skin to lose elasticity and texture, thus increasing laxity, lines and wrinkles. The Fibroblast Plasma Lift tightens and lifts loose skin and reduces wrinkles and is suitable for just about anywhere on the face or body. Typical uses would be to tighten upper and lower eyelids, jawline and neck. Do I see an immediate result? Yes – the skin is noticeably tighter immediately after treatment and further improves as the changes to collagen production, blood supply monitors and researches the latest anti- ageing technologies to provide clients or a mother and daughter making something special for a birthday. When her sons presented her with a birthday voucher for a perfume-making workshop back in 2008, Janette realised very quickly that this was her vocation. She trained with the Perfume Studio almost immediately after her workshop and is one of only a handful of perfume stylists covering the south east of England. Janette said: “Our sessions are fun, interactive and informative. “You’ll learn a little about the fascinating history of perfume, our sense of smell and how perfume became the massive business it is today. “You’ll also hear some of the stories behind some of the current perfumes we know and love. “When it comes to bespoke fragrances, it doesn’t need to be just the likes of Kylie Minogue and Beyoncé who have all the fun.” For more information, or to buy a voucher for a perfume-making session, book a consultation or workshop call Janette on 07917 818283 or email janette@janettehammond.co.uk, or visit www.janettehammond.co.uk and immune response in the dermis take place and a new generation of epidermal cells occur. Benefits The results are longer-lasting than injections – tyically two to three years – the treatment is more precisely controlled than surgery, downtime is minimal and recovery time faster, and in terms of eyelid treatment, it is the only non-surgery option. To find out more about the Fibroblast Plasma Lift and how it could reverse the signs of ageing skin for you, please call to book a complimentary consultation. Andresa Aesthetics Exclusive Skin Health & Laser Clinic, Lower Wasing Barn, Nr Woolhampton tel: 01635 800183 | info@andresa.co.uk www.andresa.co.uk Janette Hammond 19 Relax and let us take care of your hearing this Christmas Christmas can be stressful enough without worrying about your hearing. So if you’re having trouble understanding ĐŽŶǀĞƌƐĂƟŽŶ ŝŶ ŶŽŝƐLJ ƉůĂĐĞƐ Žƌ ĂƌĞ ƚƵƌŶŝŶŐ ƵƉ ƚŚĞ ds ƚŽ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ůĞǀĞůƐ ŽƚŚĞƌƐ ĮŶĚ ůŽƵĚ͕ ŝƚ ĐŽƵůĚ ďĞ ƟŵĞ ƚŽ ŐĞƚ LJŽƵƌ hearing checked. dŽ Ŭ LJŽƵƌ ĨƌĞĞ ŝŶŝƟĂů ŚĞĂƌŝŶŐ ĂƐƐĞƐƐŵĞŶƚ͕ ĐĂůů ƵƐ ŽŶ Ϭϭϲϯϱ ϱϮϯϯϰϯ Žƌ ĐŽŵĞ ĂŶĚ ƐĞĞ ƵƐ Ăƚ ϭϬ tĞĂǀĞƌƐ tĂůŬ ŝŶ EĞǁďƵƌLJ͘ Quality hearing care by the experts www.maryharehearingcentres.co.uk 20 DR JANA JENKINS - MENTAL HEALTH Seasonal Affective Disorder Many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in the winter months especially, when we are deprived of sunshine. DR JANA JENKINS explains the condition and what we can do to combat it C older winter days have set in when most of us wish to hibernate and getting out of bed is getting more difficult, because we might feel sleepy and cosy under the duvet. However, for some people winter months become very challenging due to an apparent decline in their mood. The winter season can lead to developing SAD, which is a type of depression that occurs only during winter months. Firstly, lifestyle adjustments may help, such as getting out as much as possible during daylight hours, when hopefully there is some sunshine. Exercising and maintaining a healthy diet despite increased cravings for carbohydrates and sugar-rich foods and taking vitamin D may also have beneficial outcomes. For those who experience clinical symptoms of SAD, several therapies have been proven to help – light therapy, talking therapies and antidepressant medication. Light therapy involves a special light lamp that simulates exposure to sunlight and can be used either on its own or in conjunction with other therapies. The lightbox contains very bright fluorescent tubes, usually 10 times more intense than household lights. They are available in different sizes and it is advised that for SAD sufferers at least 2,500 lux is required to have the desired effect. They are readily available online from many different manufacturers. Another option you may like to consider is taking St John’s wort; this herbal remedy, available over the counter, can be effective for mild to moderate depressive symptoms as an alternative to antidepressant medication. Lastly, going on holiday to sunny countries during winter months is the most expensive option, but worthwhile if finances allow. If you believe that you might have SAD please talk to your GP who can prescribe antidepressants or refer you to therapy. Remember that SAD is more than winter blues that we all experience and can have a detrimental effect on your quality of life for several months each year, thus it is certainly worthwhile getting adequate help and support. Stress • Depression • Self-esteem • Trauma • Anxiety • Bereavement Divorce • Suicidal thoughts • Relationships • Gender & Sexuality Addiction • Anger management • OCD • Phobias • Panic attacks Family issues • Eating disorders • Emotional & physical abuse Career • Low mood • Self harm • Infertility In the UK, broadly speaking, people can start experiencing SAD symptoms from September to November and they can last till March to May – depending on the individual and the British weather of course. Symptoms include: sleeping longer than usual and difficulty in getting up, feeling lethargic, experiencing the loss of pleasure or interest in everyday activities and feelings of guilt or despair. Furthermore, symptoms may include over-eating, and for some the weakened immune system can lead to many colds and infections making winter months even more challenging. In the UK, broadly speaking, people can start experiencing SAD symptoms from September to November and they can last till March to May Although the exact cause of SAD isn’t fully understood, research shows that changes to the levels of two hormones play a part – namely melatonin and serotonin. The lack of sunlight results in overproduction of melatonin. This is a hormone that is important for sleep and in winter months the body produces more melatonin compared to summer months, thus we tend to sleep more. In addition, the production of serotonin can also be affected. This hormone is very important for our mood, appetite and sleep. The lack of sunlight may lead to reduction of serotonin levels and less serotonin in the brain is generally related to depressive moods. So what can you do to prevent the likelihood of developing SAD? Let’s talk The Key to Hope. Change. Empowerment Adults, young people and children Couples and families Workshops and therapy groups Trainees and supervision Range of prices £35.00 – £90.00 per session Whoever you are, whatever you do, however you are feeling, talking through what’s going on with a professional can help. We are a dedicated team of counsellors, cognitive behavioural therapists, psychologists and psychotherapists. Whatever you’d like to talk about, we are here to listen. If you’d like to book an appointment or have any questions, please call on 07544 752 667 or email us at enquiries@keytherapyassociates.co.uk We are also happy to set up an initial free consultation. You can find out more about us and our services at www.keytherapyassociates.co.uk Thatcham House, suite 18a and 18b Turners Drive, Thatcham RG19 4QD 21 Childcare delivered by dedicated teams of professionals for children from three months to five years OPEN WEEK January 7th - 11th 2019 Free registration for the month January New Year, New Start Tigers Day Nursery Henwick Court, Turnpike Road Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 3QY Tigers Too Day Nursery Chequers Court, Station Road Thatcham, Berkshire RG19 4PR T: 01635 528857 E: tigersday@tiscali.co.uk T: 01635 866321 E: tigerstoo@tigersdaynurseries.co.uk Tigers at Theale Day Nursery 16 Church Street, Theale Reading, RG7 5BZ Tigers at Swindon Day Nursery 1403, Welton Road, Delta Park, Westlea, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 7XN T: 01189 303000 E: theale@tigersdaynurseries.co.uk T: 01793 877025 E: swindon@tigersdaynurseries.co.uk Tigers Day Nurseries, run by Alison Huntley Entreprenuer of the Year 2018 www.tigersdaynurseries.co.uk 22 Christmas Party Nights Saturday 15th December - 7.30 to Midnight TRY CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING Frobury Farm, Kingsclere Ground open for practice and lessons Party Night for groups of any size Glass of Prosecco on arrival Christmas Buffet inc Crackers & Novelty Box Disco Christmas Hot Buffet Traditional Roast Turkey chestnut farce, roast potatoes, Chantenay carrots & gravy Slow Cooked Cajun Bavette Steak new potato wedges Wild Mushroom, Brie, Spinach & Cranberry Strudel seasonal vegetables Poached Plaice parsley sauce & new potatoes -------- Chocolate Profiteroles Fresh Fruit Salad Coffee & Mini Mince Pies Gift Vouchers and Christmas Parties Tel: 01635 297122 07788 497393 Email: paul@frobury.co.uk www.frobury.co.uk Groups of any size. Confirmation of numbers required 7 days in advance. Deposit of £10.00 per person required to secure the booking. £30.00 per person Deanwood Park Golf Club, Stockcross, Newbury, RG20 8JP 01635 48772 | john@deanwoodpark.co.uk A Merry Christmas IN THE KENNET CENTRE! 8/9 DEC. IT’S FREE! 25 NOV. 11am-3pm IT’S FREE! CHRISTMAS EXTRAVANGANZAWEEKEND! SATURDAY ONLY 10am-11am: A parade with Father Christmas! Live music, street performers, and famous film cars through Newbury town centre. SAT/SUN 11am-4.30pm: Meet Father Christmas at The Kennet Centre. Children under 10 receive a FREE GIFT, There’s FREE facepainting, stiltwalkers, street performers, balloon artists, acrobatic elves and a magical Snow Queen in a moving, interative globe! 11am-3pm: Join us for this fantastic educational event about the Humboldt Penguins - perfect for kids. Learn about these incredible birds from animal experts here to answer your questions. A fun animal-themed event for all ages! PENGUIN SHOW! kennetshopping.co.uk 23 Present experience Out&About has selected some seasonal gifts available from the bigger stores in Newbury, as well as featuring some choices from local independent businesses GIFT GALLERY Gifts for kids big and small Book £6.99 Debenhams Christmas Box £4 M&S Money box £10 Paperchase Slippers £15.99 New Look Dinosaur hand puppet £7 Sainsburys Fabric food basket £15 John Lewis Unicorn mug £10 Debenhams Unicorn Hottie £15 Debenhams Playing cards £5 Debenhams Lego robot £149 John Lewis Skittles £18 Laura Ashley 24 Gifts for food & drink lovers Chocolate gift set £20 Hotel Chocolat Champagne Gift set £35.99 Laithwaites Theale Tea collection £15 Debenhams Grow your own gin botanicals £13 Paperchase Biscuit barrel £15 Laura Ashley Chocolates Cocoa Ben’s See page 26 Hamper £500 Hotel Chocolat Glass £4 Sainsburys Gin Baubles £35 Laithwaites Theale Chocolate from £5 Cocoa Ben’s Perfume See page 26 DYO Perfume £99 The Perfume Studio DYO Perfume £49 The Perfume Studio 25 A PASSION FOR ALL THINGS FLORAL BEAUTIFUL BESPOKE CHRISTMAS WREATHS, TABLE CENTRES & CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS 01635 528 900 The CORNER SHOP Bath Road, Woolhampton RG7 5RE 0118 9710 489 Mon-Fri: 9.30-17.30 Sat: 9.30-17.00 Sun: Closed sales@willowandblooms.co.uk www. willowandblooms .co.uk 36 Bartholomew Street, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 5LL Design Your Own Perfume The Perfume Studio experience is an exquisite and sensual journey into the world of fragrance. Night �me jasmine from Africa, spices from the Orient, rich and sensual vanilla from southern France are all in this beau�ful range of fragrance blends, created by our Master Perfumer. Use them to find your signature scent. Scent Events - learn about perfume ingredients and how to construct your own unique signature scent Perfume Par�es - gather a few friends together and enjoy a sociable, interes�ng and fragrant occasion crea�ng bespoke perfumes Hen Par�es - a perfect start to your celebra�ons, crea�ng your own fragrances for the revelry to come An Individual consulta�on - spend �me learning about the structure and ingredients in The Perfume Studio blends of fragrance, be guided through the process of crea�ng your fabulously unique scent. Specialising in luxury, handmade chocolates for all occasions Ben Marshall Chocola�er 07817 220983 info@cocoabens.co.uk www.cocoabens.co.uk Telephone: 07917 818283 www.janettehammond.co.uk www.theperfumestudio.com 26 Gifts for the home Candle £20 Debenhams Plaque £4 Dunelm Ornament £4 Wilko Decoration The Corner Shop Woolhampton See page 26 Penguin acrylic light £46 Laura Ashley Cushion £10 M&S Set of 4 Plates £12 Next Sparkle candles £40 Laura Ashley Bed set £25 Next Cushion £20 Debenhams Cup £6 M&S Set of 4 plates £19.50 M&S Set of 4 placemats £18 Laura Ashley Vase £25 John Lewis Mexican chilli pot £17.50 Debenhams Tableware The Courner Shop Woolhampton See page 26 Robin Cushion £8 Wilko 27 Start living the Retirement you deserve “ Lifetime mortgages are not for everyone, however, there are many reasons why they are considered: • repay an existing mortgage • clear other debt to free up monthly income • take a well earned holiday • home improvements/landscape garden These are just a few, but would it be suitable for you? Lifetime Mortgages (a form of Equity Release) are available to those over the age of 55. By releasing the equity tied up in your home, it can improve your income levels, or give you a lump sum to use however you need to. You can take a lump sum or take smaller amounts both now and in the future. These type of mortgages are complex and it is important that you receive suitable financial advice and fully understand the implications of what you are to embark on prior to making a decision. Your Equity Release Options, offer an initial free meeting to fully discuss and help you understand the type of mortgage which would be suitable for you. We research all the lenders to ensure that the deal is appropriate. Working completely on your time scales, giving you plenty of time to think, question, re-think and when you are ready make the choice that is appropriate to you. Would you like to chat ...... • moving home • help family members • increase disposable income Carol has been great for us, responsive communications and always has time for you. I have been very happy with her service and cannot fault anything. Customer Review “ To find out more call senior mortgage consultant Carol on Tel: 01635 550179 for a free, non obligation chat. E: carol@hopwoodash.co.uk www.yourequityreleaseoptions.co.uk A life�me mortgage will be secured against your home. Think carefully before securing other debt against your home 28 COMPETITION Win a hamper from Highclere T he Earl and Countess of Carnarvon are delighted to welcome visitors to the Christmas Fair at Highclere Castle on Wednesday, December 5 and Thursday, December 6. Admire the spectacular Christmas tree and Christmas decorations, enjoy the carol singers in the saloon and shop for all your Christmas presents at the stalls that fill the state rooms in the castle and the courtyard behind. These two days are in aid of Thames Valley Air Ambulance and St Michael & All Angels Church, Highclere. The ticket (£25 per person) includes entry to the fair, castle gift shop, tearooms and gardens. If you wish to walk around the gallery and see the bedrooms, a suggested £3 donation or more to the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, which will have representatives by the staircase, will be much appreciated. You may also upgrade your ticket for an additional £5 to explore the Egyptian Exhibition housed in the cellars of the castle. The fair opens at 9.30am with last admission at 2.30pm. The grounds close at 4.30pm. Tickets are split into two admission times, with morning ticket holders asked to enter between 9.30am and 12noon, and afternoon tickets holders between 12noon and 2.30pm. Further details are available online at www.highclerecastleshop.co.uk/ categories/christmas-fair-tickets If you can’t make it to the fair, you could still win this special hamper, filled with a selection of goodies from the shop and donated by Highclere Castle. For your chance to win, answer the following question: Q: Which two organisations is the Christmas Fair raising money for? Send your answer on the form to Highclere hamper competition, Out & About , Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 5DW. The closing date for entries is Tuesday, December 11. For O&A terms and conditions please see p5. Highclere Castle hamper competition Answer ................................................ ............................................................... ............................................................... ............................................................... Name.................................................... Address................................................ .............................................................. Email..................................................... Daytime tel no.................................... 29
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