Luxe issue 88 - Jul/Aug 24

RABY RISING. The Summer Edit. THE FUTURE OF FASHION. Get the glow. FITNESS NOTES. Spa session. FISH SHACKS. Food festivals. GRAND GETAWAYS. Jetting off. SMART INTERIORS. Go electric. SPORTING STAR. Party planning. LUXE.

I’m writing this welcome note from my garden bench. Spicy margarita shaken and the pizza oven fired up for supper alfresco. It’s been a busy few months juggling social events, sporting fixtures and kick-starting wedding and festival season. For me, this is the real height of summer. The months where free weekends feel like a distant memory and the garden becomes another room in the home.

Our July/August issue is always a special one - a time for us to really embrace the joy that summer brings, before it’s too late! I hope this issue reflects exactly that - lots of fun stuff in our Summer Edit to keep diaries busy, foodie thoughts to keep tummies full, and some seriously inspiring people to remind us why we love the North East.

Whether it’s a trip to Seaham Food Festival, a taste tour of coastal cuisine, or raising a glass to summer with sensational sips, our food and drink pages are busy and colourful. On top of that, we’re covering big cultural news with the launch of Raby Castle’s new development, we’re hearing from inspiring people in the world of sport, fashion and interiors, and we’re dreaming of days spent holidaying both at home and away. If you can, I’d highly recommend pouring your favourite tipple, finding some outside space, and flicking through these pages with summer inspiration in full flow.

Let’s make it one to remember!

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THE LUXE TEAM

Christopher March Publisher chris@allies-group.com

EDITORIAL

Elysia Fryer Head of content elysia@allies-group.com

Nicole Wood nicole@allies-group.com

Caroline Dask caroline@allies-group.com

SALES

Debi Coldwell Director debi@allies-group.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk

Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk

DESIGN

David Stubbs Creative director dave@allies-group.com

Euan Underwood euan@allies-group.com

If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Debi Coldwell: debi@allies-group.com / 07910 918366

Allies Group Ltd, The Schoolhouse, 12 Trinity Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DF allies-group.com

All

ISSUE 88 JUL/AUG24

Rachel Cornick is a founder of forward-thinking fashion rental service, CLOAN. In this issue, we hear about her inspiration behind the business and recent collaborations with Fenwick and By Rotation. Her luxe things in life include: a Beauty Pie membership - the best decision she ever made for her skin, her NEOM Wellbeing Pod, and fresh blooms from Flower Folk in Jesmond.

Our cover star for this issue is Lady Barnard, who with Lord Barnard, owns the Raby Estate. Lord Barnard’s luxe things in life include: a good diary, a nice bookcase filled with books, and his English bulldog, Olga. Lady Barnard’s luxe things in life include: fresh flowers sitting as centrepieces on tables outside, a warm house, and a really good margarita.

Charlotte Gibbons is the brains behind Worthy Wax - a beautiful scented candle business giving back to the community through charitable donations. Her luxe things in life include: the scent of tonka bean, all things interior design, and spending time with family at home or in nature.

10>> The Luxe Summer Edit

Diaries at the ready...

20>> Our picks

10 floral finds for summer

24>> Raby rising

Lord and Lady Barnard on their latest development

32>> Check this

Get to know: Yorkshire Tartan

34>> Fashion forward

The rise of rental fashion with CLOAN

38>> Glow up

Must-have summer beauty products

42>> Fitness notes

The diary of a marathon runner

46>> Coastal cuisine

Take a seafood taste tour

50>> Food fun

Seaham Food Festival is back

58>> UK getaway

A fine foodie stay at Aldwark Manor

64>> Interior icon

Cathy Dean on how to live smart

72>> Test drive

Bob Arora drives the Tesla Y Model

76>> Driving force

Jess Baker’s groundbreaking golf journey

79>> Social diary

Smile for the camera

Our partners Scan our QR code and keep up-to-date with the latest luxe moments.

WIN: THE STUNNING SOMERVILLE CHAIR BY GEORGE

We’ve teamed up with George Smith to give one lucky reader the chance to take home the stunning Somerville Chair in luxurious red mohair

The Somerville exudes comfort and elegance, serving as a timeless armchair for cosying up in style. A real luxe treat for the home.

A must for homeowners looking to elevate their living spaces with a touch of sophistication and comfort. Don’t miss the chance to win this beautiful piece from George Smith - where excellence in furniture craftship meets unparalleled comfort. George Smith are the most experienced makers of exceptional upholstered furniture for prestigious projects throughout the world. Each remarkable piece is meticulously handmade in Northumberland using traditional methods.

Timeless and eminently versatile, George Smith furniture lends itself to diverse design schemes, from the contemporary to the traditional. Whether you are selecting from their own distinguished collection, or commissioning a unique bespoke design, the George Smith name is a guarantee of outstanding craftship and service.

LUXE LOVES

Say cheers

We’re big on British wine this summer, one of our favourites being Burn Valley Vineyard’s Solaris 2023. Fresh and light with citrus and floral notes. The perfect tipple to compliment a light alfresco lunch in the garden. We’ll cheers to that! burnvalleyvineyard.co.uk

JUL/AUG 2024

Big on brass

Durham Brass Festival is in town

Kynren returns

Don’t miss the ‘Epic Tale of England’

A culutral must in Newcastle city centre

The agenda: summer highlights >>

Diaries at the ready. Time to make it a summer to remember…

FOOD & DRINK

Range Nights at Rudding Park THROUGHOUT SUMMER

Take a trip to Rudding Park this summer for an evening of golf, music, pizza and a party vibe. Arrive between 7.15pm and 9pm for unlimited range balls and competitions on the TrackMan Range, alongside stonebaked pizza slices served to your bay, as well as flowing drinks. The perfect way to spend balmy summer evenings with friends, family or colleagues. ruddingparkevents.co.uk

MUSIC

Durham Brass Festival 5 - 13 JULY

Durham Brass Festival returns to the region this July and it’s a must for music-lovers. Don’t miss a week of spectacular performances, free concerts, community activities and lively street bands. With performances from the likes of Brassed On, Smoove & Turrell, The Cory Band, Streets of Brass and many, many more, there’s plenty to get your diaries full and your feet moving this summer! brassfestival.co.uk

FAMILY

Great Yorkshire Show 2024

9 - 12 JULY

The Great Yorkshire Show is back this July, packed with entertainment, competitions, food and drink, and much more. It’s the ultimate celebration of all things farming, food and agriculture and it’s a fantastic day out for the whole family. This year’s show will feature a Farm to Fashion Show, The Battle of the Butchers, Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show, a Craft Beer Bar, plus the very best animals and machinery in the country. A summer must! greatyorkshireshow.co.uk

THEATRE

The Becoming at balletLORENT

11 - 13 JULY

Don’t miss out on an extraordinary evening of dance at balletLORENT. The Becoming brings seven performers to the stage, pouring out their bottled-up dreams and pushing themselves to the limit in a spectacular showcase of raw expression, resilience and creativity. Adorned in captivating costumes crafted to elevate their every movement, you will be blown away from start to finish. balletlorent.com

ARTS & CULTURE

‘Towards New Worlds’ FROM 19 JULY

Make your way to Middlesbrough’s MIMA art gallery this July for the start of an inspiring exhibition sharing 15 artists’ experiences of seeing, hearing, feeling and sensing the contemporary world. ‘Towards New Worlds’ explores a variety of human perceptions and sensory experiences through works of art, making connections between internal worlds and external environments. Each of the artists involved is disabled, deaf or neurodivergent. The artists interpret their own perspectives, offering new insights for those encountering their work while recognising that we can never fully inhabit someone else’s experience. A truly fascinating exhibition, opening this July. mima.art

WORKSHOP

Copper Rose Making Workshop

20 JULY & 17 AUGUST

Learn how to craft your very own Copper Rose at this exciting new workshop at South Causey Inn. Under the guidance of the team at True North Traders, you will cut out copper blanks and cold forge them into a beautiful design to take home and share with loved ones. southcausey.co.uk

ARTS & CULTURE

Summer Sizzler Weekend 2024 13 & 14 JULY

Head to BALTIC this July for a weekend of art-fuelled fun. Browse a bustling Art Car Boot Fair with over 50 stalls of local artists and makers, a live DJ, and a Swap & Share Bonanza. All of that, plus talks, workshops, tours and four floors of fantastic art to be inspired by! baltic.art

FAMILY

Thorp Perrow’s Classic Car

Sundays

14 JULY & 25 AUGUST

Are you the owner of a classic vehicle?

Spend a summer Sunday morning chatting to like-minded motorheads at Thorp Perrow’s Classic Car Sundays event, held on 14 July and 25 August. A fantastic free event, giving owners of amazing vehicles the space to meet and admire each other’s motors over coffee. thorpperrow.com

FOOD & DRINK

Wine Discovery at Fenwick

Newcastle Food Hall 12 & 13 JULY

Wine-lovers, listen up. Head to Fenwick Newcastle Food Hall this July for an evening sampling new tipples. The Wine Discovery event is the perfect opportunity to talk to expert suppliers and producers as they take you on the journey of their wines, Champagnes, spirits and beers. Embark on a wine adventure, exploring crisp whites and lively roses, to rich reds and luscious ports. Complete with live music and delectable nibbles, it’s sure to be a wonderful evening of wine talk. fenwick.co.uk

FAMILY

Flower Power Plant Fair

21 JULY

Be blown away by blooms at Wynyard Hall’s Gardens this July with a burst of floral enchantment. The Flower Power Plant Fair returns, promising a captivating blend of flowers, horticultural wonders, and a celebration of all things botanical. Wander through pathways adorned with intricately designed floral arrangements, showcasing the creativity and skill of the talented gardeners and suppliers. It’s the perfect opportunity to add a touch of nature’s beauty to your own garden, pick up some expert tips from gardening enthusiasts, and discover the latest trends in tools, accessories and eco-friendly practices that harmonise with nature. wynyardhall.co.uk

MUSIC

Corrine Bailey Rae presents Black Rainbows

24 JULY

Get ready to experience the mesmerising vocals of Corinne Bailey Rae as she takes to The Glasshouse stage this summer. With her soulful voice and captivating lyrics, she waves a tapestry of emotion; blending jazz, R&B and pop into an unforgettable performance, for one night only on Tyneside. Expect a journey of love, loss and resilience as she brings her acclaimed album to life. theglasshouseicm.org

THEATRE

Newcastle Fringe Festival 16 - 27 JULY

Add Newcastle Fringe Festival to your culture calendars and be prepared to be blown away by some of the very best touring acts from comedy and cabaret, to theatre, music and mischief. Spread across five venues over 10 days, 50 artists are in the line-up, including the likes of Lost Voice Guy, Jessie Cave, Alex Kealy, Lauren Pattison, Big Bold Band, Diane Spencer and more. newcastlefringe.co.uk

THEATRE

Paul Smith: Pablo 24 & 25 JULY

Calling all comedy fans… Paul Smith is back and better than ever with his latest show, Pablo. He’s taking to the Stockton Globe stage for two shows this July, ready to deliver laugh-out-loud comedy that promises to have you rolling around in laughter. Expect his trademark audience interaction and hilarious true stories. stocktonglobe.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Summer Party

26 JULY

Join our friends at Rockliffe Hall this July for their Summer Party, complete with arrival drink, lawn games, BBQ on the Rockliffe Suite Terrace and live entertainment. Round up some friends or work colleagues and raise a glass to the summer months in one of the most spectacular celebration spots in the region. rockliffehall.com

ARTS & CULTURE

Kynren: An Epic Tale of England

27 JULY - 14 SEPTEMBER

Kynren returns to its spectacular Bishop Auckland stage for its 2024 show, running every Saturday evening throughout summer. Expect 90-minutes of thrilling live entertainment, transporting audiences on a tale through time, watching legends come to life in a breathtaking adventure featuring stunts, horsemanship and stunning special effects. Kynren is a remarkable outdoor-theatre spectacular that everyone must experience. 11arches.com

FOOD & DRINK

Plot to Plate - Taste the Difference

30 JULY

Join our friends at Linnels Farm in Hexham for a very special ‘Plot to Plate’ course, to expand your knowledge of veg growing and learn how to make the most of your homegrown produce. Throughout the day you will test your own soil, learn new ways to activate compost and take away some alternative brassicas. You’ll leave with some invaluable recipes and inspiration, as well as some punchy preserved pickled radish. All of that, plus a delicious lunch prepared by Papaya Catering. Delicious. linnelsfarm.com

Motionhouse, Wild Credit: Dan Tucker

THEATRE

Open Air Theatre - Pride & Prejudice

2 AUGUST

The world’s favourite love story comes to life at Raby Castle this summer. Don’t miss a wonderful evening of open air theatre in the hands of Chapterhouse. Step back in time over two hundred years and meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters as they navigate the mire of manners of regency society. With stunning period costumes, timeless wit and the original score, Chapterhouse’s Pride and Prejudice promises a romantic and fascinating retelling of Jane Austen’s much-loved work. raby.co.uk

FAMILY

NOVUM Festival

8 - 11 AUGUST

Newcastle’s multi-arts festival returns for its second year and it’s expected to be bigger and bolder than before with more international artists, live music and free activities for the whole family to enjoy. Expect a celebration of dance, street theatre, live music and family-friendly fun. The event will showcase talent in the city’s cultural playground, the Grade II listed Civic Centre, with events also taking place at the Great North Museum. Programme highlights include: music from DJ Yoga, ‘Shrink’ by Belgian installation and performance art specialist, a performance from Motionhouse - the world class dance-circus production company, non-verbal puppetry and storytelling by The League or Curiosity, and much, much more. novumnewcastle.com

WORKSHOP

Advanced Guided Ride with Cycle4Adventure

10 AUGUST

This one's for cycling enthusiasts! Join Neil from Cycle4Adventures at the Lord Crewe Arms in Blanchland for a ride around Blanchland and Hexham Commons - a challenging route following singletrack bridleways, byways and roads. A six-hour ride perfect for active mountain bikers with accomplished riding skills. Mountain bike hire is additional if required. lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk

MUSIC

90s Outdoor Silent Disco

10 AUGUST

Don your finest 90s attire, round up the troops and experience Castle Howard’s grounds like never before this summer. Join hundreds of like minded music-lovers as you sing your heart out to the finest 90s anthems, wearing state-of-the-art LED headphones. Putting the feel-good into summer! castlehoward.co.uk

FOOD

& DRINK

Fish and Seafood Cookery Course

14 AUGUST

Learn how to fillet fish and prepare seafood at Swinton Estate’s Fish and Seafood course this summer. Held in the estate’s stunning country kitchen with breathtaking views of the grounds and Yorkshire Dales beyond, it’s a brilliant opportunity to learn the best ways to incorporate seafood dishes into your diet. Pick up expert tips and tricks and go home with tried and tested recipes you’ll treasure forever. swintonestate.com

MUSIC

Hardwick Festival 2024

16 - 18 AUGUST

Make space in your music calendars for this year’s Hardwick Festival, featuring Becky Hill, Snow Patrol, Richard Ashcroft, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Soul II Soul and more. It’s a musical weekend or day out the whole family will love: get lost in live music, explore children’s areas in the woods, enjoy vintage fairground rides and tuck into a huge selection of locallysourced culinary delights. hardwickfestival.co.uk

THEATRE

The Wizard of Oz

6 - 11 AUGUST

Get ready to ‘follow the yellow brick road’ this August as The Wizard of Oz flies into Sunderland Empire. This sensational show, direct from The London Palladium, promises an unforgettable adventure to the merry old land of Oz - and the whole family are guaranteed to love it. Starring RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner and Dancing on Ice star, The Vivienne, as The Wicked Witch Of The West, and featuring the iconic original score from the Oscarwinning film as well as additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, you’ll be entertained from start to finish. atgtickets.com

THEATRE

Totally Tina

22 AUGUST

Celebrate the life and music of the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Playhouse Whitley Bay this summer. Totally Tina is a breathtaking tribute act supported by dazzling dancing, lots of sequins, feathers and diamonds, and most importantly, top-class performances of Tina’s smash-hit records including Simply the Best, What’s Love Got to Do With It and River Deep - Mountain High. playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

MUSIC

Martin Kemp’s Ultimate 80s August Bank Holiday Special 25 AUGUST

80s sensation and national treasure, Martin Kemp, is back on Tyneside for the ultimate bank holiday party at Wylam Brewery. Get your gladrags on, round up the gang and prepare for an evening of uplifting 80s hits. There’s no better way to see out the summer season. wylambrewery.co.uk

WORKSHOP

Yoga & SUP/Surf

26 AUGUST

Wellness Space is teaming up with South Shields Surf this summer to host Yoga & SUP/Surf sessions. Enjoy a 60-minute yoga session on the beach, followed by an hour of stand up paddle boarding or surfing, depending on sea conditions. A fantastic opportunity to treat your body to some wholesome movement, followed by a thrilling activity in the open water. wellnessspace.co.uk

MUSIC

Lindisfarne Festival 2024 29 AUGUST - 1 SEPTEMBER

The ultimate end-of-summer party returns for its ninth year - and it promises a jam-packed weekend of live music and entertainment on the Northumberland coast, overlooking Holy Island. Expect a weekend of escapism in the hands of some seriously talented musicians, including The Vaccines, Tom Walker, Everything Everything, De La Soul, Skinny Lister, Orbital, Kula Shaker and many more. A genre-hopping mishmash of must-see performances. lindisfarnefestival.com

Book it now >>

Indian Summer Flowers Workshop

7 SEPTEMBER

Celebrate an Indian summer with a creative floral masterclass hosted by Debbie at The Northern Flower Garden. Held at the picturesque Souter Lighthouse, you’ll learn the art of arranging stunning floral designs using sustainable techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned florists or completely new to the art, it’s a wonderful way to switch off and get creative - inspired by the rich Indian colour palette using late summer blooms. thenorthernflowergarden.co.uk

Wicked 24 SEPTEMBER - 20 OCTOBER

Wicked is flying back into Sunderland this autumn, and it’s a must for lovers of musical theatre! The smash-hit show imagines the backstory to the lives of Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Wicked recently celebrated 17 triumphant years at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in the West End, and has also taken Broadway by storm, as well as US and UK tours. It’s back on the road again, and we urge you to go and see this show sparkle at the Sunderland Empire! atgtickets.com

Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures 20 - 24 NOVEMBER

A date for your diary! Make a date with Mickey and Minnie as Disney On Ice skates back into Newcastle this November. Road Trip Adventures will whisk families away on an immersive getaway on ice, featuring new and classic tales including The Lion King, Frozen, Aladdin, Mary Poppins Returns, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2, and Moana. Expect magnificent stunts, dazzling outfits and stunning scenography as Disney On Ice comes back to town this winter. utilitaarena.co.uk

Somewhere to stay…

Summer staycations at Heathergate Boutique Holiday Park are a real box ticker for families and couples alike. For those extra luxe details, the Spa Lodge is a must. This cosy two-bedroom hideaway is kitted out with state-of-the-art facilities and comfortable furnishings to make your home from home experience top tier. As well as having the five-star spa facilities available at your fingertips, the Spa Lodge is also equipped with an outdoor hot tub with rolling countryside views and its very own outdoor saunas and steam room. A stay here is truly bliss!'

inspireleisure.com/heathergate-holidayhomes-northumberland

Six

17 DECEMBER - 2 JANUARY 2025

Six is heading to the North East this winter and we can’t wait to see the smash-hit musical grace the stage of Stockton Globe. Telling the history of Henry VIII’s wives in a musical-spectacular turning Tudor Queens into pop princesses, you can expect a big, bold and bright celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves, but their lipstick is rebellious red! stocktonglobe.co.uk

Luxe reads

Let your foodie imagination run wild with our pick of new cookbooks for summer 2024…

Comfort

A colourful and flavour-filled recipe book sure to bring kitchen beauty to your summer season.

‘Make a recipe a few times and it becomes a habit. Make it enough and it becomes home’ - Yotam Ottolenghi’s latest cookbook brings his inspiring recipes to life, celebrating the classics that taste of home. Weaving memories of childhood and travel with over 100 irresistible recipes, this celebration of food and home takes comfort food to a whole new level.

Le Sud: Recipes from ProvenceAlpes-Côte d’Azur

French chic, in a cookbook!

This guide to the food, drink and lifestyle of southeastern France, features 100 simple and seasonal recipes that capture the spirit of Provence, the Alps and Côte d’Azur. A fresh new look at the region in food - featuring sweet, savoury, cocktails and everything in between. Interwoven within the recipes are sidebar snippets into the wonders of southern French staples including wines, after-dinner drinks and the natural environment that surrounds the produce. A true insight into the stables of southern French living. And a very aesthetic book for the bookshelf!

Stuzzichini: The Art of the Italian Snack

Stuzzichini captures the magic of Italian happy hour! From the Tuscan countryside to Sicillian cafes, Italian’s enjoy their drinks with stuzzichini (snacks and small bites). Served alongside sips such as Negronis and Aperol Spritzes, these snacks are a magical tradition to be celebrated and shared. And that’s exactly what Stef Ferrari has done with his beautiful cookbook. Time to think and eat like an Italian - elevated snacking with a spritz in hand. Perfect!

SIFT: The Sunday Times Bestselling Baking Book

A masterclass in better baking. If you’re a lover of sweet treats, this one’s for you! Nicole Lamb’s new baking bible brings beautiful recipes to the table, with a clear breakdown of the key elements and techniques to help you master the art. Complete with illustrations and indulgent imagery, you won’t be able to resist something sweet this summer.

Big Night: Dinners, Parties and Dinner Parties By

Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a big family dinner, or date night on the sofa, Big Night is a New York City shop where you can find everything you need to host a fantastic food-fuelled event. Owner, Katherine Lewin, has transferred her treats into a dinner party bible offering all of the information you need to host in style. This guide is going to help you master those summer garden parties or big family barbecues. Time to impress those guests!

Relax and unwind at Newcastle City Baths

The stunning Turkish Baths at Newcastle City Baths dating back to the 19th Century, are now open, after an extensive and loving £8 million programme of restoration and refurbishment. The City Baths also feature a brand-new spa, offering a relaxing and revitalising experience

to the Turkish Baths and welcomed with soft, fresh towels, ready to enjoy a two-hour booking, unwinding inside the historical building, with relaxation chambers, whilst taking in their beautiful original features.  Fruit infused water and magazines will be on hand to make the visit even more enjoyable.

The Turkish Baths offer a traditional, dry, heat experience. The heat of traditional Turkish Baths has many benefits for well-being including easing muscle tension, reducing stress, improving blood circulation, and helping to eliminate toxins.

If you’d like to accompany your visit to the Turkish Baths with a traditional Turkish massage on the stunning, original, Hammam beds, then the spa is for you.

Packages at the Spa include a City Baths 1/2 day Spa Package at £95, which includes use of the facilities for a half day, plus a 60 min ‘prescribed’ treatment based on how you’re feeling, and how you want to feel.

Or for a truly decadent couples adventure – the Spa offers a unique 45 minute ‘Serail Mud Chamber Treatment’ to enjoy alone at £49 or with a friend or loved one for £85.

Healing muds are applied to the body before entering the chamber, where gentle music and lighting accentuate the calming experience whilst you relax, unwind and let the herbal warmth activate the detoxing and cleansing ingredients.

Also available is the Temple Spa Mediterranean skincare range – a top to toe skincare range combining the very best botanicals from the Mediterranean combined with cutting edge derma-science. And if you’ve ever had a Spa treatment and wished you could have just a little more –don’t stress, The City Baths’ 15 minute ‘Side Orders ‘at £25 offers a great selection of hand, foot or shoulder pampering options to add to a main treatment.

Visitors will experience an immersive atmosphere in truly stunning surroundings, at one of only seven working Turkish Baths in the UK. The Turkish Baths experience is unique, starting with gentle warming and heating in the Tepidarium and Caldarium, followed by cooling, cleansing and revitalising in the Laconium. In the tranquil setting of the traditional mosaic tiles and Islamic arches, you can unwind in your own private relaxation booth or relax in the Turkish Bath’s heated chambers – the choice is yours.

Signature Treatments include a range of soothing and hydrating 30- or 60-minute Facials, including the Champagne & Truffles Deluxe Treatment – the crème de la crème of facials at £82 for 60 minutes

Guests will be greeted by a host dedicated

For massage lovers, there are Full Body, Muscle Workout or Hot Stone Massages and even a New Beginning’s Mum-To-Be massage, plus 30-minute whole body or foot exfoliation

Whichever beautifully nurturing natural therapy you choose, time at the Spa in such a glorious setting will be well spent - a real treat that will leave you feeling revitalised, comforted and at peace.

To book and view all the facilities, see the full range of treatments, or to find out more about membership options, please visit www.city-baths.co.uk/, download the Fusion Lifestyle app or call 0191 261 7207.

Nestled within the kitchen garden of Wynyard Hall lies a hidden gem, a haven for culinary enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Victorian Glass House, a timeless marvel steeped in history, invites you to indulge in a dining experience unlike any other.

Step into this picturesque sanctuary, a mere stone’s throw away from the grandeur of the main house, and immerse yourself in the relaxed ambiance that only nature can provide. Surrounded by a verdant tapestry of botanical wonders, The Glass House offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary British gastronomy.

Since the 1800s, the grounds has been a cradle for homegrown produce, nurturing a tradition of culinary excellence that resonates in every dish served. The harmonious marriage of tradition and innovation is evident in the meticulously curated menu, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients harvested straight from the adjacent kitchen garden.

Every meal at The Glass House is a celebration of flavours, textures, and aromas that pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of the region while embracing modern techniques and trends. Indulge in delectable creations crafted with care and passion by our talented chefs.

Savor the essence of the seasons with dishes that evolve with nature’s bounty, ensuring that every visit is a unique and memorable gastronomic journey.

Whether you seek a leisurely lunch surrounded by lush greenery or an intimate dinner, every moment promises an experience to cherish.

Join us at The Glass House, book your table by scanning the QR code or visiting the website www.wynyardhall.co.uk

♥ NE

Our wonderful region through your lens. Here are some of your recent shots from days out in local beauty spots

Sweet charity

Summer sporting socials set up to give back to the local community…

Hike into the Light 2024

5 JULY

Dust off your walking boots and dig out your head torch for a ‘Hike into the Light’ night-time walk in the stunning North Yorkshire countryside. In support of The Headlight Project, a charity working to reduce the number of deaths by suicide in the Tees Valley area, the 12-mile moonlight trek will get underway at 11pm on Friday 5 July at Cod Beck reservoir in Osmotherley, venturing through the pine forests, along ancient trails and onto parts of the famous Cleveland Way route. The hike will be both mentally and physically challenging, reinforcing the mental health messages of hope and that nothing is permanent, as we move out of the darkness and into the light. headlightproject.org

Whirlybird Walkies

THROUGHOUT AUGUST

This summer, you can fundraise for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) with your four-legged friend in tow. Up your ‘walkies’ game this August with a month-long challenge, inviting dog-walkers to complete one of three distances. The beginner challenge covers 30 miles throughout the month, while the intermediate challenge covers 60 miles and the advanced challenge covering 90 miles. Every penny raised through Whirlybird Walkies will go straight back into funding the GNAAS life-saving mission of keeping people safe across the region. Your pup will get a free GNAAS bandana when you raise your first £10. Let’s go! greatnorthairambulance.co.uk

Great North Bike Ride

25 AUGUST

Put your wheels in motion this August and join the Great North Bike Ride along the stunning North Northumberland coastline, from Seahouses to Tynemouth Priory and Castle. Established in 2000, the ride supports the Chris Lucas Trust in memory of Chris who died aged 18 of Rhabdomyosarcoma. All money raised will go towards medical research into his form of cancer. The route is approximately 60 miles on road with some climbs - and we’re certain you’ll be blown away by the scenery from start to finish. A brilliantly organised charity bike ride raising vital funds for childhood cancer research. greatnorthbikeride.com

Walk for Wag 14 SEPTEMBER

Dog-lovers and their furry friends are invited to ‘Walk for Wag’ this September - a fundraising event to help raise money for Wag & Company, a regional charity that works to combat loneliness among older dog-lovers. This year’s charity walk will take place at Derwent Reservoir and Waterside in County Durham, and it’s a great chance to get together for a five mile walk along the beautiful waterside. There will also be a Waggy Tails Fun Dog show - sponsored by Alex Clark of Alex Clark Art - open to walkers before the event. wagandcompany.co.uk

AJ Bell Great North Run

8 SEPTEMBER

Whether you’re running the GNR or cheering on a loved one, it’s got to be one of the proudest and most celebrated dates in the North East calendar, and we can’t wait to be part of it once again this September. Get ready to run for a good cause that resonates with your heart and experience the joy of giving back to the wonderful communities of our region. There’s no day quite like it! greatrun.org

Hadrian for Hearts

21 SEPTEMBER

One wall, one epic adventure in just one day. Join the friendly folk at Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF) for a 14-mile challenge along Hadrian’s Wall this September. From Birdoswald Roman Fort to Housesteads Roman Fort, the route will bypass some spectacular scenery and fascinating ruins. To join this challenge, CHUF asks that you pledge to raise a minimum of £250 in sponsorship. Lace up your walking boots and put one step in front of the other for a sensational cause. chuf.org.uk

Summer Golf Day 2024

24 SEPTEMBER

Calling all golfers. Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter’s Summer Golf Day is set to take place at Close House this September, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a round of golf on a great course while supporting a wonderful cause. All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the shelter. The event includes breakfast on arrival, a round of golf, dinner and a raffle. dogandcatshelter.com

Vietnam Hill Tribe Trek & Community Project 2024

26 OCTOBER - 5 NOVEMBER

Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime charity community project before 2024 is out? Look no further than the St Oswald’s Hospice Vietnam Tribe Trek. Head off the beaten track on an unforgettable adventure exploring Hanoi and The Pu Luong nature reserve, completing a community project, all whilst raising vital funds for an important North East charity. The five day hill tribe trek will pass through remote villages, giving insight into the lifestyle of the ethnic minority people who live in the area. You will also spend time in the Mai Chau region, supporting a small palliative care unit. Head to the St Oswald’s website for more information on fundraising options and registration fees. stoswaldsuk.org

Your friendly investment experts on the high street

At Newcastle Building Society, they understand that the world of finances and investments can be confusing at times.

That’s why they can introduce you to a team of established Financial Advisers, available to you on the high street.

If you have long-term financial goals in mind, Newcastle Financial Advisers are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need support beginning your investment journey or you need help reviewing any existing holdings you may not have looked at for a while.

Don’t worry if you think you don’t have enough to invest or review – they don’t have a set minimum investment amount, making financial advice accessible to even more people.

A no obligation, quick chat about your investments could help

Newcastle Financial Advisers understand the long-term goals you have for your future are as unique as you – and the best way to help you achieve those goals is to provide support that’s unique too.

That’s why your Financial Adviser will take the time to get to know you and develop a tailored financial plan that works for you.

They take a three-step approach to help you secure your financial future:

• Step 1: Explore – Initially, your Financial Adviser will get to know you. You’ll be guided through how they can help and will answer any questions you might have (and there won’t be any fees to pay unless you go ahead with any recommendations).

• Step 2: Review – Once your Adviser has gathered your personal and financial information, they will evaluate your current financial situation and explore various options to create your own tailored financial plan.

• Step 3: Decide - Working together with your Adviser, you’ll agree which plan works best for you. There’s no need to decide at this point, and you’ll have the time to consider if you’d like to act on the recommendations provided.

Get the most out of your finances and tax allowances this new tax year. Speak with a Newcastle Financial Adviser today.

Book a no obligation appointment today at your local branch – find yours at newcastle.co.uk/our-branches

Find out more at newcastle.co.uk/financialadvice

THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENTS AND ANY INCOME FROM THEM CAN FALL AS WELL AS RISE AND YOU MAY NOT GET BACK THE AMOUNT YOU ORIGINALLY INVESTED.  HM REVENUE AND CUSTOMS PRACTICE AND THE LAW RELATING TO TAXATION ARE COMPLEX AND SUBJECT TO INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES AND CHANGES WHICH CANNOT BE FORESEEN.

Kitchen inspo…

Fulo Daisy Blue Ceramic Vase

Beautiful blooms are sure to bring colour to our kitchens, but we’re going that step further this summer with this bold blue daisy vase. Colour clash with sunflowers, go timeless with white lilies, or challenge your floral mastery with a colourful selection of roses, peonies and seasonal foliage. Time to make a statement on your kitchen table!

£25, oliverbonas.com

Pampering with…

Elizabeth Scarlett Wildflower Eye Mask

Light nights and mornings disturbing your beauty sleep this summer? We’ve got just the ticket! Elizabeth Scarlett’s stunning and super-soft eye masks are the perfect treat to ensure you drift away into a dreamy night’s sleep, no matter how much sunlight is peeping through those blinds. In a deep ‘dry rose’ colour, this Wildflower design is as dreamy as your downtime will be, created from scattered posies of yellow, pink and red. A true reflection of beautiful British meadows as they burst into life in the sunny months.

£25, elizabethscarlett.com

Reading…

It Ends With Us by

Ahead of its release as a movie featuring Blake Lively this summer, we are re-reading It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover. This heart-wrenching story of love and loss has sold multi-million copies worldwide and delves deep into Lily’s life, telling the unforgettable tale of a love that comes at the ultimate price. You won’t be able to put this one down. A summer must-read, ahead of the much-anticipated movie due to be released in cinemas this August.

Following…

@the_flower_folk

There are many blooming wonderful things about the summer months, one of which is the stunning colours of the flowers that surround us. If, like us, you are inspired by blooms and the power of plants, give The Flower Folk a follow - a Newcastle-based flower and plant shop covering everything from weddings and events, to workshops, fresh bouquets and flower workshops. This account is sure to brighten up your feed!

Watching…

Bridgerton Series 3

It’s been two years since we were treated to a dazzling dose of Bridgerton, and it is back on our screens this summer. It’s a beauty of a Netflix binge if you haven’t already been swept away. It brings everything we know and love about the romantic, scandalous and quick-witted series, with more dramatic storylines, following the blossoming romance between Penelope and Colin. A must-watch. netflix.com

In our basket…

Casablanca Dress, Rat & Boa

We’ve been drawn to blooms in our shopping baskets as we prepare our holiday wardrobe this summer and we’ve fallen head-over-heels in love with this Casablanca Dress by Rat & Boa. ‘Fiery Latin flavour in this sultry style’ - it’s a sleek and showstopping fit, sure to turn heads on the beach. £150, ratandboa.com

Perfect scent…

Diptyque Paris, ILIO Hair Mist

Your locks deserve to enjoy the sunny scents of summer too - and that’s why Diptyque’s new ILIO Hair Mist is a beach bag essential for us this year. The Summer Limited Edition is light and delicate and settles over the hair in an invisible yet beautifully fragrant veil. With notes of prickly pear, bergamot, jasmine and iris, one spray will whisk you away to a beautiful beach on the Mediterranean. £58, diptyqueparis.com

Listening to…

Girl Flower Podcast

If you’re a lover of flowers and gardens - and you love a good chin wag - add Girl Flower Podcast to your listening list. Jessica Naish and Victoria Vaught host the show, where they have inspirational chats with florists and growers. So, whether you’re starting a new growing journey, or you’ve got a blooming business of your own, relax and listen over a cuppa, in your studio, during your commute, or out in nature. open.spotify.com

Dreaming of…

‘The Hydrangea Islands’

There aren’t many blooms as beautiful, big and bold as hydrangeas. They’re our go-to for brightening up a room or garden - and that’s why this summer we’re dreaming of a trip to the Azores, the isolated islands in the Atlantic Ocean. These unspoiled Portuguese islands are filled with valleys, waterfalls, rolling hills, beaches and an abundance of hydrangeas. Go here with your camera and be sure to capture something special. July and August are the best months to visit, and the best locations for hydrangeas are Sao Miguel, Flores, Graciosa and Faial.

THE CRAFTS CORNER

with Sara Davies

Entrepreneur and queen of crafts, Sara Davies, brings you a step-by-step guide to her latest craft projects...

Hello there!

The summer holidays are here and it’s the perfect time to get some crafts on the go!

I know how manic the school holidays can be, especially those classic drizzly days when you’ve run out of things to keep your little ones from climbing the walls. That’s when having a simple craft project tucked in your back pocket and ready to go is an absolute lifesaver.

This macramé keyring project is a really fun one for kids to get into - and once they’ve mastered the basics there’ll be no stopping them! Get creative with different colours and add bead decorations to craft cute, personalised teacher gifts.

Now, I think everyone should have a set of paint markers as there is quite literally no limit to what you can do with them. It’s a great way to let your creativity loose to doodle and decorate pretty much anything from rocks and pebbles to wooden signs and even glass jars like these!

Upcycle coffee jars, jam jars and old candle holders and draw any design you like to create fun, themed centrepieces for outdoor gatherings. Or brighten up your home storage with a pop of vivid summer colour!

Macrame Keyring

You will need...

Macrame cord

Keyring

Scissors

To make…

Cut two pieces of macrame cord approximately 36” long.

Fold one piece of cord in half. With the folded part of the cord on your metal keyring, take the two ends and thread them through the loop. This is called a larkshead knot.

Repeat Step 2 with the other piece of cord, you will then have four cords hanging from the keyring.

Bring the first cord on the left over and to the right of the two middle cords. Take the last cord on the right over the left one and take it under the two middle cords.

Now bring that through the loop formed by that left cord. Pull to create the knot and ensure it is in place at the top.

Repeat, always starting with the first cord on the left to create a twisted effect.

Stop when you have approximately 1.5” of cord on the two outside pieces.

Cut another length of cord approximately 10”, wrap around the base of the knots and tie to secure in place.

Trim the ends so they’re all the same length and brush out the cords to create a tassel.

Painted Summer Jar

You will need...

Glass jar or bottle

Acrylic paint markers

Clear varnish or sealant

To make…

This is a great upcycling project, so if you’re re-using an old candle holder or coffee jar you’ll need to give it a good clean. Use hot soapy water to remove any labels and scrub off the residue. Using your paint markers start by

drawing the flower stems and foliage in green, go all around the jar and leave to dry.

Once your leaves are dry, begin adding the flowers in a variety of styles and colours. Draw in one colour at a time, leaving to dry before starting a new shade.

Build up your design, moving around the jar to space out the flowers and colours.

Seal the painted design with clear varnish or sealant.

What is Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR) and why is it becoming a more popular route for separating couples?

With most couples wanting to avoid litigation, largely due to the increase in costs and lengthy timescales, why is it that more than ever couples are considering NCDR and what exactly does this mean. Lucy Walther a Solicitor from Tilly, Bailey and Irvine Solicitors Private Family Team explores this further below.

The Court process can often seem like a daunting prospect, particularly as most individuals will likely have little to no exposure of litigation and for the most part, will want to avoid this if possible. With the Court now taking a firm stance on parties attending NCDR, this needs to be seriously considered before any application to Court is made. The definition of “NCDR” can be found in the Family Procedure Rules at 2.3(1)(b) as ‘methods of resolving a dispute other than through the court process, including but not limited to

mediation, arbitration, evaluation by a neutral third party (such as a private Financial Dispute Resolution process) and collaborative law’. The list is deliberately not exhaustive, allowing for the inclusion of future and emerging methods of dispute resolution.

Mediation

The process known as mediation is where parties engage with a Mediator, who is a neutral third party, to try and aid discussions to arrive at an amicable resolution. They usually involve parties attending numerous meetings with their ex-partner to discuss

their respective positions and receive neutral assistance with how matters could be resolved. This can either be done with everyone in a room together (joint mediation) or where parties are separated (shuttle mediation), and the Mediator can go between you both. It should be noted that any agreement arrived in Mediation is on a voluntary basis and the appointments are scheduled to fit around everyone involved. This is often a favorable route as both parties feel they have been heard in an open forum and worked together to agree matters.

Arbitration

Family arbitration involves an individual and their ex-partner agreeing to instruct an Arbitrator to adjudicate on a particular area(s) in dispute whether that be a financial settlement, arrangements for children or any other legal aspect of a separation. The Arbitrator will need to have copies of all evidence before they are able to make a final decision. It is important to note that any decision made by the Arbitrator will be final and legally binding upon both parties. This can often be helpful when parties are unable to agree on a specific point(s) and need oversight without wanting the delay of applying to Court over smaller issues. It is usual that both parties agree the format of the arbitration i.e. venue, format, dates/ times and the Arbitrator which provides flexibility and avoids delays.

Early Neutral Evaluation/Private Hearings

If parties are attempting to agree matters and need someone to give an initial indication as to any likely final outcome, then consideration to an Early Neutral Evaluation should be given. As with arbitration, both parties have the benefit

of choosing who they wish to instruct to provide the indication offering the flexibility and avoids the delays. Again, this would involve providing the individual with all the necessary documentation to be able to provide such an indication. Particularly in financial disputes arising from separation these are referred to as Private Financial Dispute Resolution Hearings which would follow the same format as if we were in a Courtroom however parties get the opportunity of choosing the private Judge, location, and date/time which they do not get if a Court application was made. With both arbitration and early neutral evaluations/private hearings the private Arbitrator/Judge will only have that parties’ case whereas a court room based Judge will have a number of matters in the list so cannot necessarily devote the time that may be needed.

As already stated, the Court are taking a firmer stance on NCDR, and all parties (unless exempt) should give serious consideration to the above options before issuing an application to Court. By attending NCDR you have more flexibility and avoid the often-significant delay of a Court application which is why we are seeing more separating couples choosing this route.

At Tilly, Bailey and Irvine Solicitors we have a specialist Private Family Team who can assist with NCDR. Should you wish to seek further advice then please contact Lucy Walther on 01740 646000 or lwalther@tbilaw.co.uk.

A new chapter

Lord and Lady Barnard took over as custodians of the Raby Estate in 2016. Since then, they have worked hard to celebrate its history and promising a bright future, namely with the latest development project, The Rising. Elysia Fryer took a tour of the estate…

“I had a vision for the lion’s head, but I’m not sure that’s what it was,” Lady Barnard laughs as she enters The Vinery on the day of the estate’s first press preview. In the final stages of development, it has been a real team effort in pulling things together.

“I’m constantly finding really interesting and amazing things in the castle and asking if we can somehow incorporate it into the development, then next time I come in, it’s hanging on a wall,” she smiles.

“It’s been fantastic to see this project coming together. It’s been a real labour of love, not only for myself and my husband, but for everyone who works here.”

Raby Castle has been an iconic Durham landmark for 700 years, but since Lord and Lady Barnard inherited the estate in 2016, they have massively improved the visitor experience, ensuring that Raby’s fascinating history - and bright future - can be shared with the region, the nation and beyond. Their latest project, The Risingspearheaded by Lady Kate Barnard and her husband - has recently opened to the public. It has brought back to life some of the estate’s fascinating historical buildings, to offer a unique event space, retail offering, and a stylish glasshouse restaurant, all connected by meticulously designed landscaped gardens and enchanting walkways. The perfect way to enjoy and celebrate an estate of such beauty.

As we take a seat in the stunning Vinery, overlooking the pristine gardens and castle beyond, Lord and Lady Barnard can’t wait to tell me about their latest project, but first, a little bit about their Raby journey…

“We inherited the estate from my father in 2016,” says Lord Barnard.

“We were living in Shropshire when we first got married and we were involved in the land management on an estate down there. Before that, we were in Gloucestershire and I was in London for a while.

“And I was in Italy!” Lady Barnard jumps in.

“But I’m actually from the North East originally,” she continues.

“I grew up in North Yorkshire, near Chop Gate.”

Their journey spans many counties and countries, but Raby very much feels like home to the couple, who have been determined to put the estate on the map as a destination for local people, as well as those visiting from further afield.

Raby has so much history, heritage and an incredibly bright present and future on its hands, so since it became their home, the pair have been focused on expanding and upgrading the estate as a whole so that every element of Raby can be celebrated.

“We were slightly blind about what we needed to do when we first inherited the estate,” Lady Barnard starts.

“We didn’t know the castle and the gardens well at all at that stage, so we set about trying to work out what to do with it and

how to make it work. One of the things that was really important was that we wanted the castle and grounds to be the focal point for the estate, but not to be the only thing on the estate.

“We wanted people who lived in the dale to be really proud of Raby. It’s a really good estate to belong to. And I suppose that was where we started our journey.

“At the time, the gardens were a little bit run down, and the castle wasn’t open that often.

Very locally, people had never heard of it.

So we wanted to become relevant to the area first. And so, we felt that having somewhere that was important to Raby, its history, artwork and its collections, was definitely worth seeing - for locals, but also for people travelling to the area.

“Raby has been open to the public for a very long time,” Lord Barnard adds.

“But not necessarily for that many hours and only on certain days. A lot of local people hadn’t really visited, because you had to buy your ticket to get in even through the outer gate. So we sort of did away with that, and that was one of the first things we changed. It meant that you could come in and go to the cafe, go for a bit of a wander, before you hit the payline, if you like. And if you did want to go and have a look around the castle and the gardens, you could.

“We found that there were lots of people driving up and down that road every day, between Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland, and they’d say, ‘oh, we’ve never actually been in before!’.

“And I think we also felt that there was potential to do a lot more. The visitor facilities were limited, really. The playground was almost non-existent and the cafe was just not big enough. The kitchen wasn’t fit for purpose, the car park - fine in the summer - but then you had your Christmas fair, it rained, everyone got stuck, and there would be tractors everywhere trying to get people out!”

Living on the estate, but also getting out and about and speaking to the local people and seeing it from the perspective of others, has really helped Lord and Lady Barnard nail down the visitor experience, and thus The Rising is born.

The name, ‘The Rising’ is a nod to the estate’s deeply rooted history, bringing heritage buildings involved in the ‘Rising of the North’ back to life. The term ‘rising’ also represents growth, improvement and positivity - all key words behind this bold and ambitious development.

What is so incredibly unique and charming about this project is the community behind it. As we wander through the estate and grounds, every builder, planner and member of staff is genuinely excited about the prospects of Raby in this new era, and it’s refreshing to see such a buzz about the place.

“Our people are so important and have been intrumental in what we have done here,”

says Lady Barnard.

“Harry and I were like rabbits in headlights

at the very beginning. We didn’t know what to do or where to start. Some of the staff who were already here, actually knew exactly what to do, but just hadn’t done it in the past. So, by restructuring and opening up the communication lines, the people that were here came into their own; and the place is now really friendly, because the staff really care about the estate and what it means.

“Fundamentally, that’s what these places were built for. They weren’t built for one person or one family to sit in, they were built as a community. And now, for me, one of my greatest joys is seeing the way the community works. One of the volunteers came here yesterday and said, ‘oh, those tables are brilliant. I’ve got a visually impaired team coming in. I’m going to give them a lecture, and they’ll be able to feel the oak, which has just come out of the park, and I’ll be able to give them that story’.

“And she’s a volunteer, but I know she feels completely part of it, and that’s what’s made a massive difference to us. I love that side of it. And the fact that, actually, I don’t have to have all of the responsibility because I’m sharing it!

“They know the area, and they know the people coming in. And actually, as a result of employing a lot of local people, we are now much more relevant in the area.

“Getting it through the 20th century, with all of the things that went on historically in the 20th century, was a really difficult time for any family in a big house. The guilt of

inheritance and everything shrinking down. So I guess it was bold of us to open it up fully and have the mantra of, ‘actually, do you know what? We’re a business here, and we’ve got a story to tell’.”

But it’s exactly what Raby needed, and The Rising certainly marks a re-birth for the estate. As we sit and look over the gardens from our seats in The Vinery - a building that was left derelict for so many years - and take in a spectacular castle view that was hidden by walls and hedges, it has quite literally been opened up to new opportunities. And as local people, it’s something we can be incredibly proud of.

“We are confident that, with the addition of The Rising, we are now a visitor destination that has something for everyone,” says Lady Barnard.

Whether it’s lunch in The Vinery, allowing little ones to let off some steam in The Plotters’ Forest playground, a wander through the Walled Garden, an event in The Riding School or Dutch Barn, or a historical exhibition in the Coach House & Stables, the opportunities are endless, and the experience breathtaking. All of that, plus the castle, the grounds and the lush landscapes of the wider Raby Estate.

“Our history is at the heart of what we do here,” says Lord Barnard.

“But there are so many other reasons to visit Raby now, and we hope that encourages large groups of people and families to come and experience the estate and all that it has to offer.” >>

Our history is at the heart of what we do here, but there are so many other reasons to visit Raby now, and we hope that encourages large groups of people and families to come and experience the estate and all that is has to offer

“If you are interested in history, tell us which bit, and we’ve probably got something for you,” Lady Barnard adds.

“It’s the most extraordinary place. Whether you’re interested in certain dated paintings or a type of porcelain, or carriages, or stone, we’ve probably got a collection of all of it, because it’s just never gone anywhere.

“What’s lovely is when experts come in, they each have a different view on what everything is. We’ve been looking at a piece of porcelain recently, and porcelain experts have been coming in. One gentleman keeps on bringing his friends to look at it. And it’s really amusing because it’s not as if it’s going anywhere, and it’s not really making a huge amount of difference to my life, except I am now beginning to think it probably should be looked after slightly better!

“But it’s fascinating how everything means something. We find things, and we will continue to find things. Everything has a story - and there are lots of those in the archives. We now have an archivist, and he’s absolutely marvellous. He goes through

the archives and comes out with these wonderful documents.

“Julie is our curator, she finds fascinating things. She’ll come in and say, ‘oh my goodness, I’ve just found the Ducal Coronet!’. Turns out one of the Dukes, after carrying the sceptre at the coronation of Queen Victoria, had come home, taken it off his head and stuck it up on the shelf. And there it stayed!

“Until we get to that shelf, we don’t know it’s there!”

The Rising has been an incredibly well thought out process, navigating many obstacles along the way - including, of course, the COVID pandemic.

“Most of this was planned during COVID,” says Lady Barnard.

“It was a difficult period indeed,” adds Lord Barnard.

“It would have been put up against the castle and someone would have said, ‘go on, up you go - just wash those windows’. “But for us, it was about bringing things back to life in the best way we can. The only new building in the development is The Roundhouse. Everything else is an original building that we’ve cleaned up, restored and turned around.”

It’s safe to say that, since becoming custodians of the estate, it’s been a busy time for Lord and Lady Barnard, but they’ve flourished in finding new opportunities for Raby, based around the estate’s rich history.

“I think what we’ve done slightly differently is that most people or families might do these kinds of developments over a generation or two, we’ve done it all at once!”

Lord Barnard says with a smile.

“At first, we were thinking of rolling out different projects in stages, but as work got underway we became aware that these historic buildings needed attention immediately. So there was a moment where we just suddenly made the call to go for it.

“I mean, we haven’t done it all. There’s so much more we could do, but perhaps that’s for another generation, but we like to think we have done a really major part of it.”

Looking back, for Lady Barnard, the most important element of the project has been ‘just making things work’. Something she has done throughout - and is still doing today as we wander around the site and she makes final touches on the way. Lady Barnard has been incredibly hands-on in spearheading this project and has worked closely with everyone involved. So, being able to sit with me now, on the day they’re unveiling this ‘new piece of history’ for the first time, with a cup of tea and a slice of cake, letting the moment sink in, the couple are feeling incredibly reflective.

“It’s difficult to pick out the best bits,” says Lord Barnard.

“But I have to say, one of the best moments for me was seeing the view from here [The Vinery] open up towards the castle. Of course, we knew the castle was just beyond the hedge, but to visually connect this new area to the old, has just been wonderful.

“My other favourite element is the Dutch Barn because it’s such a magnificent space that was totally wasted as an old store, originally used for storing hay for the Duke’s

horses. The scale of it is just remarkable and I’m excited to see it in use.”

“They were very comfortable, those horses,” Lady Barnard laughs.

“I have loved seeing the Walled Gardens come to life,” she says.

“There are various things in there that I absolutely love. I love the topiary in the west, I love the amphitheatre and I love the woodland walk in the east.

“And the Coach House - it was all a bit messy and it had wires hanging everywhere - and now it looks absolutely as it should be. You walk into the building and it really feels like it has been brought back to life. It’s got an energy to it, which is wonderful.

“I think the thing that I try to remind myself of, if I look at the entire site - including The Plotters’ Forest and the car park - there are 27 acres of which there is nothing that hasn’t been thought about, redesigned and put back. Although it might look like it’s always been there, every little detail has been thought of - the routing, the pointing, everything. And I think, as a result, the workforce have done the most wonderful job, they really have.”

Life is looking bright on the estate. Not only in the castle, grounds and new developments, but also in terms of bird life, farming, and doing their bit environmentally to look after the rural landscape.

Now is a time to enjoy the new beginnings, but the couple admit that there’s always something bubbling away in the background. A castle upgrade is next on the agenda, they tell me.

But when they find the time, Lord and Lady Barnard enjoy climbing mountains together in the Lake District, exploring art galleries in London, and visiting other landmarks, attractions and estates across the country.

“To unwind, I like to read - mainly history and current affairs,” says Lord Barnard.

“We like to host and have friends and family round for supper,” Lady Barnard adds.

“Our family dynamic has changed a little bit. Our children were all at home when we started this project, now they’re between 19 and 24-years-old and have flown the nest.”

But what a place to return to. A family home with history at its heart, but always rising, with one eye on the future.

raby.co.uk

Being an estate, we are lucky enough to be able to use what we have at our fingertips. Those wonderful tables were fallen trees in the park

“Obviously we navigated a lot of issues getting supplies and getting the people on board to do the work. There was a huge demand for everything and everyone following the pandemic; but looking back, it actually worked out well because we sort of brought in our own workforce and did a lot of it with our own people, and with our own materials.”

“Being an estate, we are lucky enough to be able to use what we have at our fingertips,” says Lady Barnard.

“Those wonderful tables on the terrace, for example, were fallen trees in the park. That ladder [hanging on the restaurant wall] came from 100 yards away.”

“I wouldn’t particularly want to climb it,”

Lord Barnard laughs.

“Just think, there would have been some poor boy carrying those ladders,” Lady Barnard chips in.

New Head of Junior School Newcastle High School for Girls In conversation with Emma Barnett

Following a competitive recruitment process, Emma Barnett has been appointed as Head of Junior School for Newcastle High School for Girls (NHSG). We chatted to her about her career, her future plans for the Junior School, and what makes NHSG such a special place

Can you tell us a little bit about your career to date.

I’ve actually been with NHSG, or at least with Church High one of its founding schools, since I graduated. That’s over 25 years and I’ve loved every moment.

I began as a class teacher and am absolutely delighted to now be the Head of the Junior School; it’s a real honour.

Over the years, I’ve seen pupils join our Junior School, continue right through NHSG until age 18, go on to achieve great things beyond school, and then return as parents bringing their daughters back to the school. That really is testament to how special the school is.

You’re clearly passionate about the Junior School at NHSG. So what is it that makes it so unique?

The sense of community is really special –we have great relationships with both the parents and the pupils which we build on from a girl’s very first steps into Nursery and school at age 3 or 4. We work in partnership

to support the girls to develop a real love of learning and intellectual curiosity from day one, and then we nurture it to set the foundation for all future learning. We do this brilliantly at NHSG.

Another trait of NHSG that really stands out for me is how progressive we are. We embrace change, for example, we’ve always been clear that the role of tech isn’t simply confined to computing skills - it’s an enabler to learn in more flexible, dynamic and creative ways across all curriculum subjects. You can find knowledge at the click of a button these days, but it’s what you do with it and how you apply it that really sets young minds up for the world. Our Junior School classrooms are stimulating places that encourage lively discussion. A classroom where the girls are talking more than the teacher is a genuinely exciting place to be.

Why are you passionate about an all-girl education?

Despite great strides, sadly, there are still some barriers faced by girls and women. Our new generation of girls are too young to see those barriers but with the absence of boys competing for attention and opportunities in the classroom, they are free and confident enough to pursue whatever they want to do. Nobody is going to suggest to them that they shouldn’t become a scientist or a footballer

We work in partnership to support the girls to develop a real love of learning and intellectual curiosity from day one

one day. They literally have the whole world at their fingertips from the age of three and, as they grow older, they’ll be better equipped and empowered to compete for those roles because they’ll have never doubted their right to succeed in traditionally male-dominated sectors. The world is their oyster.

What are your future aims for NHSG Junior School?

For me it’s about ensuring that what we are teaching and how we teach it remains dynamic and future focused. So this will involve keeping abreast of what’s going on in the world, and continually auditing, reviewing and reflecting on what we are doing. This extends to the pastoral system in school too. Technological development, particularly connected to social media, means that new challenges are faced regularly, even for younger girls, and we need to acknowledge and address these issues. Society is changing rapidly all the time, and we have to change with it. As long as the girls are happy, feel safe, secure and confident in their learning environment they will do well and achieve great things.

Applications to join the Junior School are open for September 2024 and beyond. For more information please visit www.newcastlehigh.gdst.net

Bea uty n ature

&

Aberdevine Lingerie is a North Yorkshire-born brand bringing a beautiful capsule underwear collection, inspired by the local landscape

aberdevine.co

Check it out

From surveying and estate management, to digital communications, Merryn Wilderspin’s varied career has come full circle, bringing her back to her roots in North Yorkshire. There she has rediscovered her creative nature, with a premium bags and accessories brand. She shares her flagship ‘Yorkshire Tartan’ collection…

From her home on the edge of the North York Moors, Merryn Wilderspin found the inspiration and fitting backdrop for her business, The View From My Rear (TVFMR)a premium bags and accessories brand. Yorkshire Tartan is the flagship collection of bags and accessories from TVFMR and reflects Merryn’s Yorkshire heritage and her love of tartan.

What can you tell us about yourself and your journey to The View From My Rear?

Commerce is a family trait - in the 1920s, my grandparents established Wilderspin’s Sports, Toys and Games business in Scarborough, which my father expanded.

This resulted in three retail outlets and a thriving pushchair hire service in the days when visitors arrived by coach and pushchairs were cumbersome to travel with. An enterprising sideline.

My grandfather had been a saddler prior to WW1 and transferred his skills to repairing cricket bats and tennis racquets, including those of well-known visiting sports personalities who attended Scarborough’s annual cricket festivals and tennis tournaments in the 1930s. I have fond childhood memories of his workshop with its smells of leather and glue and the mesmerising array of specialist tools.

I was dissuaded from taking on the family business and encouraged to follow my countryside interests via rural estate management. Ultimately this became more urban-centric resulting in a four-year degree in urban estate management at what is now DeMontfort University in Leicester (and where I am now an Alumni Ambassador).

This paved the way to an 11-year career as a chartered surveyor, working as a new business development manager in London’s fledgling Docklands and the West End.

As a result of researching opportunities to introduce digital communications within my employer’s real estate business, I switched

direction resulting in a 25-year career managing the development and delivery of large-scale web-based business applications for investment banks, pharmaceutical sponsors and various medical and leisure sector clients.

In 2014, following the death of my father, I semi-retired and returned to my Yorkshire roots and family home to care for my mother.

What was your inspiration behind the brand?

When I was 11-years old, a trip to London where I won a school photography competition ignited my passion and lifelong interest in photography and art. During a visit to The Tower of London, it was my image of a Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) taken using a Kodak Brownie camera that won me first prize. I still have the camera and picture to this day.

In 2021, I transformed my hobby into a business - The View From My Rear - which was inspired by the view from my home in rural Yorkshire. Notably a rainbow that arched over the cornfield at the bottom of my garden.

I didn’t set out to enter the exciting world of fashion, things simply evolved. I began by creating photography-based fine art and canvas prints featuring views of the North York Moors and coastline.

But my technique became far more artistically styled by experimenting with various creative digital processes, transforming original subject matter such as flowers, trees and even industrial machinery into eye-catching artforms. I soon realised that these artforms lent themselves well to fashion items, so set about creating a range of premium bag and accessory collections.

The business progressed and, in April 2024, relaunched with seven premium leather bags, fashion accessories, stationery and homeware collections, as well as related fine art prints and canvases. The seven collections comprise the flagship ‘Yorkshire Tartan’ plus six floral ranges created from images of flowers taken from my garden.

Why tartan?

‘Yorkshire Tartan’ is the flagship collection of bags and accessories from The View from My Rear and it reflects my Yorkshire heritage and sheer love of tartan. Over the years, I’ve cherished classic tartan accessories, which I wear regularly to add colour, vibrancy and glamour to my outfits. As well as being my favourite classic pattern, it serves as a reminder of my late partner who was from the Scottish Highlands.

The collection design features a colour palette typically associated with Yorkshire - blue, green, white and yellow. Inspired by my deep-seated roots with Yorkshire, coupled with a lifelong passion for tartan, it seemed natural to unite the two and it’s been an exciting journey to bring the collection to life.

Moving away from my original photographic approach, I used a bespoke tartan pattern design programme provided by Scottish heritage product producer, St Kilda. St Kilda manufactures a wide range of traditional woven clothing, accessories and bagpipes.

What can you tell us about Yorkshire Tartan’s unique place in the market?

The history of tartan is fascinating. A piece of cloth found buried in a pottery jar near Falkirk is one of the earliest pieces of evidence of tartan in Scotland and dates back to 250 AD. But it’s believed the material

didn’t become commonplace until the 16th century when it was worn by highlanders to identify different Scottish clans. Since then, it has become Scotland’s ‘national treasure’. Just this year, recent wardrobe choices by celebrities reflect the continued popularity of tartan. In February, actor David Tennant graced the BAFTAs wearing a kilt; March saw English actress Andrea Riseborough and s tar of Channel 4 show - Alice and Jack - wear a tartan dress at the Oscars; singer Gwen Stefani gave tartan a punk-rock edge in a Vivienne Westwood with Blake Shelton tailored jacket and mini kilt at the Fall Guy red carpet premiere; while Claudia Winkleman sported a kilt in a recent episode of BBC One’s hit show The Traitors.

‘Yorkshire Tartan’ has its own unique place in the market. Each piece tells a story of meticulous artistry and unparalleled craftsmanship - timeless elegance reimagined. The ‘Yorkshire Tartan’ design is printed onto neutral leather, which is then cut to shape, sewn together and finished by hand, combining a blend of state-of-the-art digital printing techniques and traditional artisan skills to produce the time-honoured luxury range.

The range will appeal to local folk young and old who cherish quality and style and are keen to make a statement with accessories, giving a nod to their county. But I anticipate that there will be demand for the collection from UK visitors and overseas travellers who flock to Yorkshire and are keen to take a Yorkshire-related memory home with them.

Where can we buy Yorkshire Tartan?

Currently, Yorkshire Tartan is available at tvfmr.com

What’s next for you and your business?

I will continue to develop as a modern, ethical brand and plan to introduce more vegan and other textile choices. I love the idea of made-to-order and slow fashion. The relatively new concept of rental also interests me and would offer a great way for people to ‘try-before-you-buy.’

And finally, your ‘luxe' things in life?

My camera - ultimately what led me to fashion, music - I've been a 12-string guitar player since I was 11, and my ‘Yorkshire Tartan’ bags.

tvfmr.com

SORU JEWELLERY

Baroque Pearl Earrings

£155, fenwick.co.uk

ARANÁZ

Market Large Raffia Top Handle Bag

£275, harveynichols.com

Raye Woven Raffia Hat £49, julesb.co.uk

Etta Wood-beaded Clutch Bag

£88, reiss.comv

Melanie Chunky Platform Leather Sandals £148, reiss.com

This season’s must-have summer accessories and swimwear

TOM FORD

Ren Oversized

Sunglasses £325, harveynichols.com

MELISSA ODABASH

Elle Raffia Cowboy Hat £150, harveynichols.com

HEIDI KLEIN

Deia U-bar Halterneck Swimsuit £265, heidiklein.com

VALENTINO GARAVANI

Mini Wallet

£410, flannels.com

RENNÉ JEWELLERY

9 Carat Gold 2.5mm Bangle &

Honour Feather

£950, rennejewellery.co.uk

CRYSTAL HAZE

Serena x Evil Eye

Crystal-embellished 18kt

fenwick.co.uk

Gold-plated Bracelet £150, harveynichols.com

£98, reiss.com

Changing the face of fashion

CLOAN is the forward-thinking fashion rental service changing the way we shop. Elysia Fryer catches up with founder Rachel Cornick, who has recently secured concessions in Fenwick Newcastle and York, as well as a partnership with By Rotation…

I’m heading into a chat with Rachel Cornick, founder of CLOAN, on the back of a girls weekend in Paris, and I had no idea how much I’d relate to the inspiration behind her business.

During our trip, whilst getting dressed up for a night under the sparkles of the Eiffel Tower, my school friends and I reminisced about getting ready together for parties in our teen years. The days of swapping outfits, sharing shoes, trading in clutch bags, or whatever we could find to ‘complete’ each other’s outfits.

“What lipstick do you use?”, “here, try it!”, “does anyone have a sparkly bag?”, “try this one, it looks perfect with your shoes!”

We’ve all done it. And it’s funny how, something I started to appreciate during my recent girls trip, is exactly the reason why Rachel has been motivated to keep the excitement of fashion alive, all while being sustainable, affordable and moving away from the bad press surrounding fast fashion. CLOAN is the perfect solution - and an

opportunity to look and feel your best, without breaking the bank or over committing.

“There are so many big reasons why it makes sense in today’s climate, but there are all of these micro reasons too,” she continues.

“For example, your body shape fluctuates throughout the year; so rather than buying something and putting pressure on yourself to fit into it, why can’t we just be kind to ourselves, and perhaps live in the moment a little bit more?

“Working with By Rotation has made me realise how many women are already sold on the concept, which is really great. It’s the way forward.”

What is so unique about Rachel’s business is that, for customers as lucky as us who are based close to CLOAN’s Fenwick Newcastle and York concession, we are able to ‘try before we rent’, something we can’t do when renting online.

“We are delighted to be working with Fenwick,” says Rachel.

“Fenwick is an institution for the North East.

We love everything they’re about.

“I love going shopping - I hate the idea that everything is switching to online. So, even though the way we consume has to change, it’s nice that the way that changes can also keep hold of the old ways that are so enjoyable, like bricks and mortar stores.

incredibly exciting concept, changing the way we see fashion.

Moments into our chat, it’s safe to say that I am a ‘rental convert’ ahead of this year’s occasion-wear season.

“I don’t think it’s anything new, really,” Rachel starts, as I ask how she has seen the market change in terms of people being more reactive to renting wardrobes.

“As girls, from a young age, many of us borrow each other’s clothes. It’s not a new concept as such. We’ve needed to find a solution to overconsumption for a long time. As consumers, we are told we have to buy stuff, but then we’re told we can’t buy too much because of its effect on the environment.

“Renting is a perfect solution. We can have a bit of fun, be more expressive and not have a big impact on the environment or feed into the issues surrounding fast fashion.

“I think it’s threefold - it’s financially beneficial, better for the environment, and it also encourages self-expression.”

Above anything else, Rachel celebrates CLOAN as a ‘self expression brand’ - an

“Fenwick are doing so much to be circular and to do their bit to be a green department store. So, offering a rental service is one more step towards achieving that.

“We are in Newcastle and York and it’s been a really great fit. Recently, we’ve also partnered with By Rotation, so all of our online stuff goes through By Rotation. It just made sense.

“As female business owners, there’s so much competition all of the time and everyone is pitted against each other. I noticed that Eshita was doing so well with By Rotation - the traffic was so high and her customers were already ‘rental converts’ - so I spoke to her and suggested collaboration over competition. There was no point in me trying to labour over her work, when it is already there and is working so well.

“The great thing about the new way we are working with By Rotation is the communication element. So there’s an open chat on every rental, so I do try and give plenty of advice on fit, or we can suggest other items to try at the same time.

“We handle all of our stock in-house, some of it is held in Newcastle Fenwick, some in

York Fenwick and some at our HQ. It’s all cleaned, cared for and packaged by us. When you get it, it’s all beautifully presented. We wanted it to be a real experience - so essentially you are spending Zara money but getting a designer dress. We want people to get the feeling that they’re buying a designer dress.”

Rachel’s decision to run her business from the North East is rooted deeper than her love for Fenwick. The region, she tells me, really brings out her creativity, and after spending time working in the fashion world in London, it was time to come home.

“I just love how creative the North East is,” she smiles.

“I love how the digital revolution has allowed the hub of London creativity to disperse. It feels really diverse and really dynamic up here. I go down to London about once a month for work, but I’m so happy to be up here and I’m constantly amazed by the creative people I meet.

“I grew up in Newcastle, but spent the early years of my career down in London, originally working in fashion buying. I did that for around a year, but it wasn’t for me.

“I progressed and moved into PR within Arcadia Group, so very much in the depths of fast fashion. It was really fast paced but a great training ground. I got to see so much of the fashion industry.

“This was in the noughties, so there were

so many big budgets, PR was a really, really fun place to work.

“I had worked in Arcadia for around seven or eight years, then I changed pace completely and worked for a smaller agency called VARG. It had only launched two years before I started, and it was owned by a Swedish girl who represented Scandinavian brands which, at the time, had a completely different view of the fashion industry, the pace and its impact on the environment. They were much more ethical, so I really started to view the fashion industry in a different light, seeing directly the impact that it had.

“I had been there for around two years and became a partner within the agency. I started introducing UK-based brands that had, not as strong green credentials as the Swedish brands, but they were still taking them into consideration. This was 10/15 years ago, so things were a lot different to where we are now with sustainability.

It wasn’t really in their make-up or part of marketing campaigns. Brands weren’t really considering it as much as we are now, collectively.

“I did PR and then eventually moved into working with influencers and online publications. With that move, we decided to separate the business into two; the PR agency is still based in London and we still represent international and UK brands, and

then I head up the talent division of VARG Talent from Newcastle, where we share an office with CLOAN in Jesmond. I have a team of four agents working with national content creators, stylists and artists and we do everything from managing brand campaigns and partnerships to producing podcasts and building their personal brand.”

Rachel’s lightbulb moment for CLOAN came when she started her own rental journey using a website called COCOON Club.

“I’ve always loved fashion and have been surrounded by it throughout my career,” she starts.

“I’ve worked in both high-end and high street fashion and I guess I’ve seen the quality of high-end fashion and totally fallen in love with it; but I’ve also not really been able to get my head around spending thousands of pounds on dresses. I would see my friends spending half of their pay cheque on a bag or a dress, but I just couldn’t do it.

“As a consumer, I had started to rent from a website called COCOON Club, (which has now been bought by LVMH), it’s a subscription service for luxury handbags. It’s amazing because you can be really expressive with it.

“Following that, we had the idea to rent out our influencer’s wardrobes. It was originally going to be called VARG Closet, but our talent are very minimalist, capsule-wardrobe kind of girls, and that wasn’t necessarily what people wanted to rent. So, I had some Self Portrait dresses that I put on there, and they were the bits that started renting straight away.

“I started to reinvest in the really ‘wow’, bright pieces and just started having fun with it.”

Now, CLOAN’s collection is made up of around 500 pieces, with the inventory being added to on a regular basis.

“I love it,” Rachel says.

“Because essentially, I get to shop all of these items that I love, and share them with our customers.”

Rachel’s favourite brands to work with include: Aje, The Vampire’s Wife, Rixo and Self-Portrait.

“Self-Portrait is the reigning queen of occasion wear at the moment,” says Rachel.

“It just fits so beautifully and the detailing is incredible. Rixo does well for us too - it’s a really fun and contemporary brand. I’ve just bought some Rat & Boa dresses that are amazing - real head-turners.

“There’s a new brand called Kika Vargas,

that tends to feature really big, statement bows. Another item that is doing very well is the Loewe basket bag.

“There’s one dress that I didn’t expect to do so well. H&M did the collaboration with Paco Rabanne and I managed to get hold of the ‘Disc Mini Dress’. That is out all of the time - usually for hen parties. That’s a really fun one!”

CLOAN is as much about the experience as it is about the ‘wow’ items available. Throughout our chat, Rachel and I share fond fashion memories - whether it’s shopping til our feet hurt and having an at-home catwalk at the end of the day, trading outfits with our friends, or having those confidence-boosting moments where you pluck up the courage to really express yourself with a statement style.

When you purchase or rent a dress for an occasion, for example, the experience is more than just picking up the dress and wearing it. It’s about imagining yourself wearing the dress with confidence, seeing it hanging up at home and falling more and more in love with it, pairing it with shoes and accessories and then finally, seeing the ‘styling journey’ come together on the day of the event. It’s a journey, and Rachel’s mission is to ensure that that journey is as enjoyable and stress-free as it should be.

“It’s about switching the mindset in fashion,” she says.

“And I think the rental market is starting to do exactly that. I hope that, with CLOAN, we can really get to know those rentalconverts and create a community that trusts us to ‘style’ them.

“This year, what I really want to do is refine our edit and get into the flow of this occasion-wear season and get to know our customer a little bit more.

“We’ve got a few Fenwick events and partnerships with Charlotte Tilbury coming up, which is really exciting.

“Long term, I would love to look at introducing some showrooms throughout the North East. That’s bubbling away in the background.

“Short term, I just want to retain that experience we all had as younger girlswhether it’s sharing clothes, or going out shopping with friends. It’s all about the experience for me.

“It’s nice that we can create that experience and keep up that excitement.”

Fun in the sun

As glorious as the summer sun can be, it can also play havoc with your hair! But fear not, we have a few good hair hacks to keep your locks healthy and looking their best during the sunny months

Firstly, always make sure to hydrate from the inside out by drinking plenty of water. Keeping the body hydrated helps maintain moisture levels in the hair and skin, preventing it from becoming dryand it keeps you feeling great too.

Also be mindful of the products you use, opting for specifically formulated products for sun protection, like UV protectant sprays or leave-in conditioners will help protect the strands from the damaging effects of the sun's rays.

Another important tip is to minimise heat styling. With the temperature already high outside, there's no need to add extra heat

to your hair. Instead, try embracing airdrying and styling with minimal heat whenever possible.

Regular trims are always crucial to keep split ends at bay and maintain the overall health of your hair, this is especially important during the summer months when the hair is more prone to damage. Lastly, protect your hair from chlorine and saltwater by wetting it with clean water before swimming and avoid letting your hair submerge into the water, if possible, by tying it up above the neckline. After swimming, rinse your hair with fresh water again and apply a nourishing sun protection balm or oil to hydrate and replenish any lost moisture. With these precautions in place, you can

enjoy the summer while keeping your hair looking and feeling great. Now somebody get me a cocktail!

hookerandyoung.co.uk

LUXE LOCKS

Hair by Sam McKnight Love Me Do

Nourishing Oil, 50ml

Give your locks the nourishment they deserve with the Sam McKnight Love Me Do Nourishing Oil - an ultra-light hair oil that restores silky suppleness to the hair. It’s the perfect summer remedy - instantly soothing frizz and flyaways. We wouldn’t be without it! £32, spacenk.com

SUMMER SHEEN

Iconic London Rollaway Glow

Iconic London’s latest ‘glow’ product, Rollaway Glow, is the rollerball highlighter we’ve all been waiting for. It’s super easy to apply and adds a soft-focus sheen to the skin. With one easy swipe, your skin will be left with a weightless glow, transforming dull skin with a healthy, dewy finish.

£25, on counter at H beauty, Gateshead

LIGHT UP

Rare Beauty Mini

Positive Light

Liquid Luminizer

Rare Beauty has just the trick for dewy skin this summer. We’re loving the Mini Positive Light Liquid Luminizer - a liquid highlighter that leaves an instant, luminous shimmer. Loaded with light-catching pearls that can transform any look from a soft sheen to a bold pop with just a few swipes.

£16, spacenk.com

Beauty: update

Glow getter - our go-to glowy products for summer

SKIN SAVIOUR

Sarah Chapman Clinic C1

Vitamin C Power 1 Serum

Say hello to a visibly radiant complexion this summer thanks to Sarah Chapman Clinic’s C1 Vitamin C Power 1 Serum. This innovative serum harnesses the power of two forms of vitamin C, one oil-soluble and one water-soluble, to deliver big brightening benefits. It’s suitable for all skin types and gorgeously gentle on the skin, integrating easily into any skincare routine. £90, spacenk.com

GET GLOSSY

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Shimmering

Multi Purpose Dry Oil, 50ml

An indulgent treat for the skin - the NUXE Huile Prodiguese Golden Shimmer is a summer must. This luxurious oil-based treatment nourishes, repairs and softens the skin - with shimmering mineral particles giving that extra glow. Packed with a unique formula of Vitamin E and seven precious plant oils, the spray offers ultimate hydration to leave skin sumptuously soft and hair ultra glossy. £20, lookfantastic.com

SUNNY SCENT

Byredo Mumbai Noise

Eau De Parfum

We do not go far without our favourite Byredo fragrance - this summer, it’s the Mumbai Noise Eau De Parfum. It’s an escape in a bottle - transporting you straight to the bustling, colourful and fragrant streets of India’s west coast. This indulgent unisex scent promises a warm, woody and oriental aroma made from a blend of amber, tonka bean, coffee, sandalwood and davana. £200, endclothing.com

PERFECT TONIC Ren Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic (250ml)

This multitasking powerhouse product by REN is the perfect remedy to help you achieve that summer glow without the effects of sun damage on the skin. It exfoliates, brightens, tightens, hydrates, smooths, energises and cleanses the skin. The results? A radiant, illuminated glow, free from breakouts and congestion. £30, on counter at H beauty, Gateshead

HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Glow Glide Architect Highlighter

The highlighter we all need in our makeup bag this summer. This Charlotte Tilbury favourite highlights, sculpts and lifts the look of the skin for a glowing, defined-looking facial structure. What to expect? A stunning, satin finish that illuminates and blurs the skin like Hollywood lights! £38, fenwick.co.uk

FRESH FACED

Clarins Hydrating Toning Lotion, 200ml

The key to clear skin is having a trusty toner in your toilet bag. Our go-to is the Clarins Hydrating Toning Lotiona skin-boosting tool to help retain water and moisture while also removing excess cleanser residue. A cool combination of aloe vera and fig works perfectly to hydrate, soften and brighten rough, dull skin. Say hello to supple skin this summer. £27, johnlewis.com

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Take the plunge

Luxe revisits the remarkable Spa at Ramside following the introduction of its Frigidariumbringing all the benefits of cold water therapy

Cold water immersion is a topic and wellbeing activity that can easily divide a room. Some people love it and some hate it, and there’s an argument for both. Having experienced it myself, there’s nothing quite like the instant buzz it gives as the energy surges through your body, but there’s no denying that, until you’re hooked on the benefits, in that moment, it’s not so enjoyable.

As Brits, we typically spend a lot of our time complaining about the cold. So, of course, when we submerge in cold water, it’s our instinct to respond frantically as our body goes into a state of shock. But when you get your head around the fact that it’s that state of shock that actually gives us the adrenaline rush that leaves us feeling energised and focused, it’s much more manageable.

Cold water therapy can take many formsbe it ocean dips, lake swimming, cold showers or ice baths. It is a science-backed wellness trend that has hit the ground running with professional athletes and celebrities, but there’s plenty of evidencebacked information by experts in the field that confirm it can be a life-changing activity - whether it’s a one off experience, a weekly event, or even something you incorporate into your every day.

Motivational speaker and extreme athlete, Wim Hof, famed for his ability to withstand low temperatures, is an inspiration to many and continues to fly the flag for the mental and physical benefits of cold water therapy. His ‘Wim Hof Method’ includes a combination of frequent cold water exposure, breathing techniques and meditation.

Paired with workouts and body treatments, it will ensure you leave the spa feeling like the best possible version of you

His techniques have proven that cold water therapy can enhance mood, reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. Cold water has been used for a long time by sportspeople as a way to reduce muscle soreness. As a child, I remember hearing my dad, as a professional sportsperson, talking about his post-match recovery, and I could not get my head around the want and need to submerge yourself in freezing cold water. Why would anybody want to do that? Surely it’s not normal, or healthy, to put your body through such stress? All in the name of recovery… it just didn’t make sense.

But, of course, it did. And the methods put in place by professionals have since filtered out into the people and places with a focus on mental health and wellbeing.

Today, we are hearing of friends dipping in the North Sea, people starting the day with a cold shower, and spas and wellness facilities introducing dedicated cold water experiences.

Personally, I’ve tried and really enjoyed sea dipping, but I haven’t quite introduced it into my daily or weekly life. So when we heard that The Spa at Ramside was introducing the Frigidarium, we were keen to try it out.

Of course, spa days are a wonderful way of spending precious time with loved ones - be it a couple’s retreat or a girly getawaybut more and more, people are seeing the mental and physical benefits of a spa visit; noticing how every facility available works together to improve overall wellbeing.

The Spa at Ramside has always been a favourite of ours - with first class facilities in everything from the swimming pool and indoor and outdoor hydropool, to go steam room, saunas and sleep sanctuary. So hearing that it has expanded its offering by introducing a cold water plunge pool, makes it the perfect box-ticker for allround wellness.

Sitting at a height next to the hydrotherapy area of the spa, the Frigidarium is a sharing experience for up to six spa-goers, and encourages short sessions of two to five minutes, building up to no longer than 10 minute immersions, at 5 degrees celsius.

A quick plunge, following a sauna or steam session, promises to leave you feeling calm, helping to focus the mind and also regulate the body’s heartbeat following a workout. It’s great for recovery.

After a morning lounging by the outdoor pool, dipping in and out of the thermal suites and hydrotherapy pool, we build ourselves up to take the plunge.

I remind myself of the one phrase, impossible not to come out with when a friend is entering a slightly cold swimming pool or sea when on holiday… “it’s fine once you’re in!”.

I’d be fibbing if I said this was true for a 5 degrees celsius plunge pool. The cold doesn’t go away, but what does happen is you adjust as your mind switches its focus, your energy levels rise and you start to restore a sense of balance to the nervous system.

We only lasted two minutes, but the rush of adrenaline we feel on climbing out, we find ourselves desperate to go again. It’s a wellness hit. An instant boost as you physically and mentally feel the cold water working its magic.

The Frigidarium is the perfect addition to Ramside’s already brilliant spa facilities. It completes the experience; and when paired with pre-immersion workouts or post-immersion body treatments, it will ensure you leave the spa feeling like the best possible version of you. That’s what it’s all about, right?

The Spa’s experts are on hand to recommend follow-on massage treatments to better the positive effects, in helping to reduce muscle aches and reduce inflammation.

The Frigidarium is available to members or anyone visiting Ramside for a spa day or spa break. A fantastic reason to revisit or indulge in the luxuries of The Spa at Ramside for the first time.

ramsidespa.co.uk

SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND

In the picturesque landscapes of Northumberland, resides Luxe life coach Teresa Peters. She offers her expertise to assist a reader juggling the needs of growing a business with family life during the busy summer months…

READER QUESTION:

Dear Teresa, how can I balance my growing business and family life during the school summer holidays? I feel guilty for feeling this way but it is always such a juggle!

DEAR READER…

The summer holidays bring sunshine, laughter and family adventures. However, for parents who run their own businesses, this period can be particularly challenging. Balancing the demands of working with the desire to be a great parent requires planning and strategic adjustments. Here are some tips to help you manage this balancing act.

Prioritise and plan ahead

Start by mapping out your work commitments and family activities. Use a calendar to mark important deadlines, meetings and personal time. Allocate specific days or half-days for uninterrupted work and others for family outings. By scheduling ahead, you can ensure neither your business nor your family time is neglected.

Set realistic goals

It’s essential to set realistic goals for your work during the summer months. Understand that your productivity might dip slightly, and that’s okay. I always say give 100% of whatever % you have that day. Adjust your expectations and focus on maintaining momentum rather than pushing for massive growth.

Embrace flexible working hours

Take advantage of flexible working hours by adjusting your schedule to fit around family activities. Work early in the morning before the kids wake up, or late in the evening after they go to bed. Additionally, consider working in short, focused bursts throughout the day. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break, can boost productivity and allow you to be present with your family.

Involve your children

Depending on the nature of your business, involving your children can be a great way to spend time together while also getting work done. This can range from simple tasks like organising your workspace, to more complex activities like brainstorming ideas for your business. This can provide you with some assistance and be an educational and bonding experience for your children.

Leverage technology

Technology can be a lifesaver when managing work and family life. Utilise tools such as project management software, shared calendars and communication apps.

Create a designated workspace

Having a designated workspace can significantly improve your productivity and help create boundaries between work and family time.

Make the most of quality time

Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of time you spend with your family, but the quality. Make the most of the time you have by planning fun and meaningful activities.

Use journaling to set intentions

Set daily or weekly intentions and reflect on how you want to feel and be during the summer holidays. Write down your goals, both personal and professional, and track your progress.

Balancing work and family during the summer holidays is challenging, but with careful planning, clear communication, and flexibility, it can be done. Embrace the chaos, enjoy the journey, and cherish the special moments. acceleratorcoaching.co.uk

Fitness notes

Luxe tips, tricks and kit to help you feel fit…

Marathon training >>

Our creative director, David Stubbs, is a keen runner and certainly knows a thing or two about what it takes to train, prepare for and take part in a big running event such as the Great North Run, or his latest challenge, the Edinburgh Marathon.

While David prepares for his next race, he shares his training schedule and top tips…

The marathon training journey is the ultimate running experience. I’m going to share with you some tips and my training plan I followed for the Edinburgh Marathon in May. Marathon training should be between 12-18 weeks. This plan will show you how to get up to speed and around those 26.2 miles in one piece in 16 weeks. The aim is to cross that finish line with a smile. You spend months training for that one race and inevitably, things never quite go to plan. Set realistic goals so whatever is thrown your way you’ll be able to celebrate.

You should be running four to five times per week. I run four times per week, and the mileage increases as it gets closer to race day. It is important to gradually increase the mileage and not take a large jump up. On non-running days I do low intensity exercise like yoga or some cross training, nothing too intense to cause injury. Rest days are also important to allow for recovery.

This plan focuses on completing the distance, putting pace on the backburner and concentrating on effort. Training is a mix of easy runs, speedier sessions and recovery running.

Kit & fuelling

The right kit is important for marathon running, practise longer distances in your race day kit way prior to race day. Make sure you have the correct trainers for running long distances, they need to be comfortable and cushion all of that pounding the pavements. I tend to change my running trainers after 300-350 miles so keep that in mind before you get started, and don’t wear brand new trainers on race day, it’s not a time for risk taking.

Be comfortable in what you run in on race day. Does anything rub or cause chafing? Do you stay cool in your kit? Wear kit that is comfortable - 26.2 miles is a long way to have anything that might cause you any issues. You’ll also need to practise race fueling, and how often to fuel/hydrate. For 24 hours prior, my go to is Maurten 320 Mix drink and on race day I’ll drink a Maurten 160 Mix a couple of hours pre-race. During the race I’ll carry six Maurten 100 Gels and some Jelly Belly Sport Beans for some variation, that’s roughly a gel or some Sport Beans every four miles which includes a spare gel if needed. That gets enough carbohydrates into the system while also giving me the energy needed for a marathon. It’s worth saying that what works for me, won’t necessarily work for you. You’ll

need to test your body over your training block to realise what is best. A gel every 35 minutes works well for me. Alongside the fuel I also carry my trusty Camelbak, which will contain 1.5-2 litres of water, it’s really important to stay hydrated. My preference is to run the marathon distance with a Camelbak so I have hydration on tap and it means I don’t stop-start at water stations. I simply run straight through. But there’s nothing wrong with planning your run around the water stations on route to make sure you take on enough water.

Avoiding or managing injury

Common causes of injury are overdoing or mismanaging the training load. Stick to the plan and don’t add additional runs or harder sessions. Your body needs time to adapt, that’s why the plan builds gradually. If you don’t manage your training load correctly you are far more likely to end up with an injury which might mean you have to pull out of the race altogether.

Niggles can occur, I had to take some time off for a minor knee issue, but a week or two out of the schedule is still ok as long as you are steadily building toward those longer training runs.

As you get closer to race day, niggles are often what runners call ‘Maranoia!’ those phantom injuries that aren’t actually anything. The last few weeks of training are prime time for any Maranoia to kick in. Marathon running is as much a test of your mind as it is of your body.

Marathon running is as much a test of your mind as it is of your body.

Fitness with purpose >>

When he’s not designing our magazine, running or spending time with his young family, David inspires others to dive into their own fitness journeys with his latest venture, TernFit. A virtual destination where you can join challenges, push boundaries and earn real medals - all while raising awareness and funds for great charities. ternfit.com

Completing a marathon requires commitment to training. The training block below is flexible. Complete each week’s runs in an order that suits your busy schedule, ensuring you include rest days between running days. Try to avoid running more than two days in a row.

Key:

Easy running = 3-4/10 effort.

Mile pace = 9/10 effort

5k pace = 7-8/10 effort.

10k pace = 6-7/10 effort

Tempo running = Comfortably hard running

Long run = A comfortable effort and pace

Week 1:

Run 15 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 8 x 1:00 intervals at your 5k pace, with 1:00 walking/light running recovery after each interval. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 20 mins: Easy running.

Long run 5k/3.1miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 2:

Run 15 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up followed by 8 x 1:00 intervals at your 5k pace, with 1:00 walking or light running recovery after each interval, finishing with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 20 mins: Easy running.

Long run 8k/4.9miles: Run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 3:

Run 15 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 8 x 1:00 intervals at your 5k pace, with 1:00 walking/light running recovery after each interval. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 20 mins: Easy running.

Long run 10k/6.2miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 4:

Run 5k/3.1 miles: Easy running.

Speed Run Fartlek: 5:00 warm-up then 21:00 Fartlek that alternates between 1:00 of hard running (6-7 effort) and 2:00 easy running. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 25 minutes: Easy running.

Long run 11.2k/7 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 5:

Run 25 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 2:00 at 5k pace (x3), 10:00 Tempo run, 2:00 5k pace (x3). Recovery between intervals will be 1:00 for 5k and 2:00 after the Tempo. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 40 mins: Easy running.

Long run 13k/8 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 6:

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 3:00 5k pace, 0:30 at mile pace (x4). Intervals should be done 3 times. Recovery between intervals will be 1:00. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 35 mins: Easy running.

Long run 16k/10 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 7:

Run 35 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 7:00 5k pace (x3).

Recovery between intervals will be 2:30. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Long run 20k/12.4 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 8:

Run 45 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Tempo: 10:00 warm-up then 30:00 Tempo run. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 32 mins: Easy running.

Long run 21.1k/13.1 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 9:

Run 5k/3.1 miles: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 5:00 10k pace (x5). Recovery between intervals will be 2:00. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Long run 120 mins: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 10:

Run 35 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Tempo: 5:00 warm-up then 23:00 Tempo run. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Long run 25k/15.5 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 11:

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 8:00 10k pace, 4:00 5k pace, 2:00 mile pace. The intervals should be done 3 times. Recovery between intervals will be 3:00 after 10k pace, 2:00 after 5k and mile pace. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Long run 30k/18.6 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 12:

Run 75 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Tempo: 7:00 warm-up then 5k Tempo run. Finish with 7:00 cool-down.

Run 30 mins: Easy running.

Long run 26.2k/16.3 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 13:

Run 45 mins: Easy running.

Power Pyramid Intervals: 5:00 warm-up then 1:00 mile pace, 5:00 5k pace, 10:00 10k pace, 5:00 5k pace, 1:00 mile pace. Recovery between intervals will be 1:00 for mile and 5k pace and 2:00 after the 10k pace. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 8k/5 miles: Easy running.

Long run 32.2k/20 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 14:

Run 80 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Tempo: 10:00 warm-up then 30:00 Tempo run. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 40 minutes: Easy running.

Long run 100 mins: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 15:

Run 45 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Intervals: 6:00 warm-up then 1:00 mile pace, 3:00 5k pace, 5:00 10k pace, 7:00 easy pace. Recovery between intervals will be 1:00 for mile and 5k pace and 2:00 after the 10k pace. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 60 mins: Easy running.

Long run 16k/10 miles: Long run to prepare your body and mind to go the distance.

Week 16:

Run 25 mins: Easy running.

Speed run Tempo: 5-minute warm-up then 17:00 minute Tempo run. Finish with 5:00 cool-down.

Run 15 minutes: Easy running.

Race Day 42.2k/26.2 miles: The training is done. Run comfortably, and enjoy the race.

Hit the ground running with our pick of tried-and-tested running shoes…

On, Cloudmonster

“Max-cushioned running shoes meet monster-level bounce and energy return. For a fun, forward-rolling ride.”

£160,

ASICS, GEL-CUMULUS 26

“The shoe’s PureGEL™ technology improves softness and shock absorption to reduce the impact on your joints. A great choice if you want a shoe with extra cushioning. It’s comfort will put your mind at ease during your run.”

£140, asics.com

HOKA, Arahi 7

“A sleek stability shoe, updated with a zonally engineered, flat knit upper for improved midfoot lockdown, with a plush tongue and stretchy dual gusset beneath the lace line to help mitigate tongue migration.”

£130, hoka.com

Saucony, Women’s Endorphin Elite

“The turbocharged race shoe you’ve been waiting for. It’s got PWRRUN HG foam for energy that helps power you toward your next PB. Plus, a heel-to-toe plate design that helps maximise flexibility as you roll past the finish life.”

£280, saucony.com

Adidas, Supernova Rise Running Shoes

“The Dreamstrike+ technology cushions the midsole with re-engineered super foam, offering the ideal balance of comfort and support to keep you comfy mile after mile.”

£130, adidas.co.uk

Say yes to seafood

From Northumberland to the North Yorkshire coast, let us guide you on a coastal taste tour, rounding up our favourite fish shacks along the way…

Colmans Seafood Temple South Shields

Providing the finest coastal cuisine from local fishermen, Colemans Seafood Temple is just a short stroll from the seafront of South Shields. With a vast menu of local oysters, traditional dishes, and a ‘From the Quay’ section featuring a hot seafood platter, whole roast fish of the day, and local native lobster, there’s something for everyone. colmansfishandchips.co.uk

The Fish Cottage Sandsend

Just 20 yards from the beach in the beautiful seaside village of Sandsend, The Fish Cottage is renowned in the area for its finest, locally caught sustainable fish and seafood. Tuck into a generous portion of traditional fish and chips served with homemade tartar sauce, mushy peas and lemon wedge or go for the vibrant fish tacos packed with crispy king prawns, slaw and garlic aioli. The menu is packed with tons more delicious options and is definitely worth a visit this summer. fishcottage.co.uk

The Jolly Fisherman Craster

The Jolly Fisherman is a must-visit on a coastal tour of Northumberland. With its far-reaching views overlooking the beach at Craster - and Dunstanburgh Castle beyond - it’s the perfect spot to soak up all there is to love about the North Sea. From the famous crab soup and North Shields dressed crab salad, to the Craster landed lobster and the kipper pâté, there are many reasons to celebrate this seaside spot. thejollyfishermancraster.co.uk

The Fish Shack Amble

The mighty popular Fish Shack in Amble is a harbourside retreat serving up everything from fish and chips and locally smoked seafood, to sharing platters, roasted sea bream and fish-focused pizzas. It’s cute, cosy and effortlessly rustic, purpose built using an old ‘Sea Quest’ boat. boathousefoodgroup.co.uk

Riley’s Fish Shack Tynemouth

Go here for deck-chair-dining on Tynemouth’s King Edward’s Bay. The fish bar and grill on the sands offers local, seasonal fish and seafood. It’s prepared on-site and cooked over a charcoal barbecue, resulting in the finest-tasting delicacies. Riley’s provides its customers with catch-dependent daily specials, along with lobster, surf and turf, monkfish, Craster kippers, squid, and mackerel, to name a few. rileysfishshack.com

The Seaview Restaurant Saltburn-by-the-Sea

This sunny Saltburn spot serves up sensational dishes created from the freshest seafood from the nearby waters each day. Take a bite of the crab brioche enjoyed by Fred Sirieix and Nadiya Hussain, when the restaurant was featured on BBC’s Remarkable Places to Eat. Set against the backdrop of Saltburn’s golden sands and Victorian pier, The Seaview offers indoor seating and a stunning outdoor terrace for soaking up those rays. theseaviewrestaurant.co.uk

Latimers Whitburn

Latimers is made up of the Fishmonger and Seafood Deli - selling the finest and freshest fish and seafood, and The Hatch Takeaway - serving delicious ready-to-eat options to be enjoyed inside, on the beach, or wherever you wish. With everything from crab sandwiches and ‘smokie fish chowder’, to a lobster box and a selection of ‘Fisherman’s Lunches’, you can expect seafood done properly. latimers.com

The Potted Lobster

Bamburgh

A casual and utterly charming coastal experience. The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh is the place to be for fresh seafood sourced locally and served with a smile. A diverse selection of lobster, alongside a variety of other seafood-focused dishes including Shetland mussels and crab salad. Simple yet delicious flavours using the freshest ingredients sourced from the coastline at the restaurant’s fingertips. thepottedlobster.co.uk

HOME COMFORTS

with chef Chris Baber

Food festivals, fish and chips, TV appearances and getting prepped for alfresco dining as we head into summer…

MY WORLD >>

We had the BBC Good Food Show at the NEC in Birmingham in June - I was there in the main kitchen, cooking in front of a huge crowd with the likes of James Martin and other familiar foodie faces. It’s a fantastic event and a great way to get the summer events calendar underway. It’s great because you’ve got the gardening exhibition outside as well, which means we get outdoors as well. I always love being part of the BBC Good Food Show and it’s certainly one of the key foodie dates in

some filming for Robson Green’s TV show. Robson is a great pal and has asked me to feature on his Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes show uncovering some of the best local produce in the North East. I’ll be travelling around and cooking with him. I’m so humbled to be working with him, and to be back in the North East sharing my love of food and produce, it’s great. It feels like a full circle moment for me, heading back to Hexham to be on the TV talking all things food. You can’t beat the produce we have available up here in the North East, and there’s something special about cooking with produce from where I’ve come from.

the diary every year. It’s always a pleasure to meet so many artisan suppliers and like-minded people in the food business. It’s a wonderful celebration and really marks the start of summer for me.

I also did some work with the clothing brand Hackett in May to mark the Chelsea Flower Show. They have an incredible flower display outside their store during the event. I was there serving scones with clotted cream and jam, smoked salmon and cream cheese bites, British tomato and basil bruschettas. It was a really nice, traditionally British, summer event in London.

I recently went to the opening of a new restaurant in London called Los Mochis. It’s a Mexican-Japanese restaurant, so a real fusion of flavours and really quite niche. The combination of the cuisines was really interesting - very vibrant and fresh. It’s well worth a visit if you’re in London this summer.

FOODIE HAPPENINGS >>

A big one for the North East - I’m due to do

The whole of the UK is amazing when it comes to food for many different reasons, but the North East, because it’s my homeland, just feels a bit more special, and I hope that comes across in the show.

INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >>

I love the freshness of summery food. I love how light it can be, it’s much easier to eat healthy food in the warmer months. Naturally, with what’s in season, especially all of the berries, green vegetables and salad leaves, it’s a great time to be experimenting with simple flavours and combinations. But the most important thing about summer for me is the opportunity to eat outside. Just to be able to sit out early in the evening, enjoying a really simple pasta with British tomatoes and garlic and oil. It can be the most simplistic food, but in the right environment - outdoors - it’s just perfect. When I’m up north, I love nothing more than catching up with my mum and dad, eating our dinner in the garden, surrounded by all of the natural beauty that it brings.

“HexClad makes cooking effortless and enjoyable, achieving amazing results time after time. The sheer versatility of a HexClad makes them the only pans I couldn’t live without. They are built to last with a lifetime guarantee and get better with age. They are by far the best investment you can make for your kitchen at home. There’s no other pan that will give you the same results. It’s time to get Hexy! A pan for the modern age.” - Chris Baber

Find out more at: hexclad.co.uk

TRY THIS >>

Summer courgette, feta, mint & pea fritters with poached eggs

SERVES 2 COOKING TIME: 45 MINUTES

Equipment

30cm HexClad Hybrid Pan

5 Litre HexClad Saucepan

Ingredients

2 courgette, grated (about 500g)

1 small red onion, finely chopped

Fine sea salt and black pepper

1 handful fresh cooked peas, or frozen defrosted peas

1 clove garlic, finely grated

1 small bunch parsley or mint, finely chopped, plus more for serving

1 tsp finely grated lemon zest, plus 1 tbsp lemon juice

100g crumbled feta cheese, plus more for serving

Pinch chilli flakes optional

1 large egg, lightly beaten

100g self raising flour

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

2 large eggs for the poached egg

Method

Place the grated courgette and chopped onion into a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and toss to combine. Let sit for 15 minutes to let moisture draw out.

Pour out any liquid in bowl and use clean hands to squeeze excess liquid out of

ASK CHRIS >>

If you havet any questions you want to ask Chris, please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a question and answer it in the next column. #AskChris

Q: If you had to pick a must-visit food spot to visit this summer, where would it be and why?

courgette mixture. Return courgette mixture to the bowl and pat dry with kitchen paper. Add all the remaining ingredients except for the flour and oil, and mix to combine well. Add the flour and mix until a thick sticky batter forms. Divide the mixture into 6 balls. Working in two batches, heat the oil in a HexClad 30 CM Hybrid Pan and add the balls to the pan. Flatten the balls with the back of a spoon or spatula to create a round fritter, about 1 cm thick. Cook until golden and crisp, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.

Fill a HexClad 5 Litre Saucepan halfway with water and bring to the boil. Crack each egg into a small bowl. Reduce heat to a simmer and tip one egg into the saucepan. Repeat with remaining egg on the opposite side of the saucepan. Use a spatula to gently lift egg off bottom of saucepan once the white just starts to set. Let cook until white is set and yolk is still runny, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove egg to a plate lined with kitchen paper to remove excess water.

Divide fritters among 2 plates, top each plate with a poached egg, and serve topped with more feta and mint.

A: For me, every time I come back home, I have to visit Trenchers at Spanish City in Whitley Bay. My friend Paul Mackings is a partner in that business and he’s been a great mentor to me - I met him at the very start of my journey before I moved to London. He puts a lot back into the community in the North East - he helped regenerate Spanish City and get Trenchers in there. I always make sure I have a trip over there when I’m home. The quality is exceptional - all local fish, cooked perfectly. The dining hall is stunning, but equally, nothing beats takeaway fish and chips on the seafront. That, for me, is just perfect - summer summed up.

The Truffled Hog x McMahons Salad

“We love to use as much local produce as possible. Dennis and Hayley from McMahons Greengrocers, 100 yards from ‘The Hog’ in Stokesley, help me source the finest fruit, vegetables and saladwhere possible from Yorkshire. Hence our new dish for the summer ‘McMahons Salad’”. Martin Jones, Chef

Ingredients

1 baby gem lettuce

5 spears of Yorkshire asparagus

80g garden peas

New potatoes, 5 quarters

20g lemon dressing

75g goat cheese, crème fraiche, mint dressing

Lemon dressing

1 tbsp English mustard

200ml Yorkshire rapeseed oil

80g Stokesley Honey

80g lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

Put all of the lemon dressing ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth. Set aside.

Skin the goat cheese, combine with the crème fraiche and then add to a mixer with a paddle attachment. Add shredded mint and salt and pepper to taste.

Next, build the salad. Break off 9 lettuce leaves and dress with lemon dressing in a bowl. Place three leaves to form a circle on your plate. Add asparagus, peas, goat cheese dressing. Repeat this twice - building a tower.

Serve and enjoy! thetruffledhog.uk

Goat cheese, mint dressing

100g goat cheese - Yellison is best

100g crème fraiche

25g shredded mint leaves

Salt and pepper, to taste

RAISE A GLASS

Keeping it in the country. Our pick of English wines to add to your summer selection…

“Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” I cheers to my parents as we crack open another bottle of white wine. Admittedly, it’s a Mark Twain quote I find myself reciting often in this job. But on this occasion, what started as a family BBQ has quickly transpired into a discussion, and then research project, on the excellence of English wines. It turns out there’s a lot to discuss - and many to taste - so here we are, rounding up some of our favourite finds, perfect for summer garden party season.

QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH

Henners, Gardner Street Classic, 2022 Gardner Street is the historic name of Henners’ home village of Herstmonceux, East Sussex. The old name captures the hand-harvested, artisanal craft of tending vines and wines down English country lanes. This easy-drinking wine enjoys the classic, quintessentially British floral notes of elderflower, married with a touch of stone fruit from the barrel fermented Chardonnay. hennersvineyard.co.uk

FLORAL & FRUITY

Fitz Pink English Sparkling Flowers and fruit - this English sparkling simply screams summer! This prosecco-style fizz is created with a blend of Chardonnay, Seyval Blanc, Madeleine Angevine, Reichensteiner and Rondo. Expect fresh floral rose petal notes, strawberry jam and flavours of ripe cranberries on the palate. ocado.com

A SPARKLING SUMMER

Hattingley Valley, Blanc de Blancs, 2015 Hattingley Valley is an award-winning, family-run English wine producer in rural Hampshire. Their Blanc de Blancs English sparkling wine is one of our favourite sips for summer - perfectly paired with fresh fish. This sparkling wine has the fragrant aromas of blossom, violets and lemon zest, layered with notes of brioche and fresh apple pastries. Delicious. hattingleyvalley.com

THINK PINK

Britpop Rose by Alex James

This fizzy pink Britpop favourite by Alex James is a must for summer garden parties - an effortless tipple taking you from brunch to supper. A blend of 49% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir and 14% Pinot Meunier, it’s a floral sparkling wine with notes of red berry and brioche. An easy drinker, sourced from vineyards on the chalk soils across the south of England. laithwaites.co.uk

UNCONVENTIONAL CLASSIC

The Uncommon, Mixed Bubbly WinesWhite & Rose

Wine in a can - it’s a thing and we love it! The Uncommon breaks tradition, bringing exquisite English wine with the lowest impact possible - using environmentallyfriendly materials and keeping wines fresher for longer. Their two flagship English Bubbly Wines, known as Gerald and Eleanor are a game-changer. Gerald packs a punch with notes of elderflower, green apples and freshly cut grass, while Eleanor is light and bright with notes or strawberry. wearetheuncommon.co.uk

BERRY GOOD

Gusbourne Twenty Twenty Three, English Rosé

Made for the moment, this beautiful wine by Gusbourne is a clear-winner when it comes to summer drinks parties. There’s no better tipple to help you toast to sunny days in the garden. You can taste the warmth of the season in its lush, fruit-driven palate of strawberries, raspberries and redcurrants. It’s sunshine in a bottle! gusbourne.com

Perfect for brunch or afternoon tea, a Pineapple Mimosa is a mellow cocktail with a tropical tang.

Ingredients

1 cup of chopped fresh pineapple

60ml pineapple juice

170ml Lyme Bay Winery

Brut Reserve Sparkling NV

Method

Combine the pineapple and pineapple juice in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into two flues and top each with Lyme Bay Brut Reserve Sparkling NV wine. If you can, chill the pineapple prior to blending. Serve and say cheers!

lymebaywinery.co.uk

A meal that takes you back to childhood…

More often than not my grandparents would pick me up from school on a Friday. We’d have fish and chips with peas whilst watching The Weakest Link. I haven’t seen The Weakest Link in years, but to this day it almost feels compulsory to watch it after a trip to the chippy.

The food that brings you the greatest joy…

Homemade pizzas in the outdoor pizza oven. Cooking outside on a sunny day with the family getting involved - it just can’t be beaten.

The food that represents where you come from…

My family are all from the North East, so if I was cooking something to represent where I come from, I’d opt for a parmo all day long! My wife is from South Africa, so we cook a lot of food from her home - braais, boerewors rolls and homemade biltong are all up there with my favourites.

Your most memorable meal…

My first visit to The Black Swan at Oldstead was a complete game changer for me. A few years before my Masterchef run, the contestants went to cook there and while watching the show I mentioned to my wife that it wasn’t too far away from us. She booked us in as a birthday surprise and when we visited, it opened my eyes to a completely new level of cooking. It kickstarted my interest in foraging, and I spent months after trying to recreate some of the dishes we had. I don’t think I ever came close, but the process of trying stoked my passion for cooking and gave me something to aim for.

Your favourite meal of the day and why…

There is nothing better than a breakfast when the whole family is off work/ school and you have the time to make something extra special that will set you up nicely for the day, whether it be a full

The best cook you know…

I’m supposed to say my mam here, right?! One of the drawbacks of being a chef is that nobody wants to cook for you, so I tend to do all the cooking when we have friends and family over. I’d probably have to say Paul Scutter - a long time friend and a great chef. He helped out at my first supper clubs after Masterchef and made me realise how much I didn’t know. His calmness and knowledge in the kitchen has definitely helped me out of a pickle or two.

The food you turn to when you need some comfort… Sausages and buttery mash with a really good onion gravy.

The food you always need in your fridge… Cheese! Cheese is by far my biggest vice. A proper good extra mature cheddar with crunchy bits in it is the one for me.

What food means to you…

It’s the precious moment in the day where we get to sit down as a family and enjoy each other’s company, regardless of how hectic our day has been. As a private chef, my ‘raison d’être’ is to give people experiences with their friends and families that they will hopefully remember and talk about for a long time. Being able to give that to people is really fulfilling.

And finally, what can we expect to see from you at this year’s Seaham Food Festival…

I’m looking forward to showcasing some of the dishes that people can expect to see at my upcoming restaurant, ‘Jörd’ in Bishop Auckland. I have chosen a couple of dishes that will feature on my menu. I’m slightly nervous about giving away my recipes (hopefully people will still want to come if they can make the food at home!), but I’d love to show people that tasty restaurant food doesn’t have to be complex.

Where there’s food, there’s a party

Prepare

for a weekend of food, fun and famous faces as Seaham Food Festival returns to the North East coast this 3-4 August

August marks the return of Seaham Food Festival - a vibrant weekend celebration of local food and entertainment on the coast.

It’s a big date in the summer food calendar in the North East. Nothing beats a bit of

fresh sea air, the buzz of local suppliers setting up their stalls, and appearances from some of the country’s top chefs. All of that, plus street entertainment and cooking demonstrations from a few famous faces. The Saturday line up will bring TV chef and author, Rosemary Shrager; This Morning chef and presenter, Phil Vickery; and

MasterChef contender, Mike Bartley. Best-known for her role of haute cuisine teacher on Ladette to Lady, Rosemary impressed the nation with her cooking abilities during her appearance on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. Following that, she has been a familiar face on a number of food and cooking programmes. She will be sharing Saturday’s stage with TV chef and presenter, Phil Vickery - one of the nation’s most well known chefs, presenting live on This Morning for over 22 years.

Bishop Auckland’s Mike Bartley is returning to the festival line-up this year, showcasing some of the dishes and techniques that have formed the menu for his upcoming restaurant, ‘Jörd’ on Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland.

Sunday’s star-studded line up includes world-renowned chocolatier, Paul Young; Great British Bake Off finalist, Josh S malley; and MTV Dirty Sanchez frontman, Matt Pritchard.

Paul is an expert when it comes to making chocolate, and can’t wait to share his techniques with the crowds at Seaham Food Festival, just a stone’s throw from where he

trained to be a chef at New College Durham. Since then, he has worked in a number of fantastic restaurants across the country in Whitby, Leeds and London. Paul has been a regular on TV Shows including This Morning, Sunday Brunch, Saturday Kitchen and more; and he has released four indulgent, chocolate-focused books.

Joining Paul on Sunday is Great British Bake Off finalist, Josh Smalley - a doctor of chemistry - who loves to combine his culinary creations with an insight into science. His cooking style is incredibly unique and inventive, encouraging foodies to see food as science.

Closing the weekend’s food celebrations is Matt Pritchard. After a successful career in skateboarding and stunt performing, he is now turning his attention to vegan food, health and fitness. His cooking series, Dirty Vegan, was a huge success, coinciding with his vegan cookbook of the same name. He is now a regular face on TV and has a busy few months ahead with the release of a new cookbook and training supplement. It’s safe to say that we’re in for an indulgent and inspiring weekend as Seaham Food Festival returns to the North East coast this August.

As they prepare for the event, we caught up with Mike Bartley and Paul A Young, to find out what food means to them.

seahamfoodfestival.co.uk

Nothing beats a bit of fresh sea air, the buzz of local suppliers setting up their stalls, and appearances from some of the country’s top chefs. All of that, plus street entertainment and cooking demos

A meal that takes you back to childhood…

Growing up in the 70s and 80s, there was a dynamic change in how food developed with the release of frozen foods and pre-prepared foods, I did love the odd Findus Crispy Pancake and Arctic Roll, however I was very lucky as my mum and grandma both cooked and baked from scratch most of the time. The one meal that really takes me back is my mum’s stew and dumplings. It was a simple meal - delicious, nourishing, filling and comfort at its very best.

The food that brings you the greatest joy…

I love that you have asked which food brings me joy as I have no food guilt at all and only ever want to eat food that brings me joy. The food I eat to bring me the greatest joy has to be desserts, bakes, pastry and chocolate. The whole sweet and dessert category is pure joy for me. I always look at the dessert menu in any restaurant before I decide what I’m having as a savoury course.

The food that represents where you come from…

This has to be corned beef and potato pie made by my mum as hers is epic. It’s a very deep filled pie, with plenty of onion and it has a slightly sweet taste to it, super moist and great shortcrust pastry. Then a small lake of HP sauce at the side or a mound of sweet and spicy piccalilli. Perfection.

Your most memorable meal…

This was on my 40th birthday when friends took me to Geranium, now a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Copenhagen. At the time the restaurant didn’t have any stars yet this impromptu lunch was life-changing as a chef. Everything was executed with precision, flavours I had not experienced, techniques I had not seen before and with creativity off the scale but not at all contrived nor gimmicky. The service from the team was smooth and slick and it meant I have been back twice since and it has always been epic.

Your favourite meal of the day and why…

This is an extra meal to shoehorn into my

day. Afternoon tea - because I love super soft finger sandwiches, I am obsessed with scones and then a good tea loaf cake. Utterly wonderful.

The best cook you know…

I am so lucky to know so many wonderful chefs and cooks and to have worked with many of them, so it’s very very hard to just pick one. However I have to say Nigella Lawson - she is a wonderful cook who makes simple cooking sexy and like me, understands how much joy cooking and eating gives us.

The food you turn to when you need some comfort… I have two go-to foods when I need a hug from the inside. A thick-sliced bakery white loaf with room temperature Lurpak butter spread so thickly your teeth sink in, occasionally a thick spread of lemon curd that goes to the very edges. And the other is biscuits with a mug of tea. I’m a dunker - I love all biscuits, there are none I dislike and I just can’t stop eating them once I start, it’s total comfort and joy.

The food you always need in your fridge…

Unsalted butter, Greek yoghurt, British sparkling wine or cava, and lots of green vegetables. Not a balanced diet but all individually joyous.

What food means to you…

Food has been the pivotal constant in my life and not just for fuel, I live for every meal and try to make sure that I think about what I’m going to eat and that it will care for my body as well as give me the joy I need in every day. It also brings me together with friends and family and allows me to have quality time and conversation over great food.

And finally, what can we expect to see from you at this year’s Seaham Food Festival… Chocolate is always fun, so I am making two recipes from my latest book, The Joy of Chocolate. Four of my all-time favourite recipes, the most indulgent Chocolate Sandwich made with fluffy brioche, the Chocolate Martini made with real chocolate so it’s super indulgent, real chocolate milk, and the classic sexy Pot au Chocolat.

LUXE LOVES

Boho bolthole

We’re dreaming of a summer escape to OKU Ibiza - a stylish five-star retreat moments from the beautiful Gala Gracio bay. With its laid-back, boho vibes, vibrant fusion cuisine, nature-inspired design and indulgent facilities, it’s a haven for summer on the ‘White Isle’. okuhotels.com

POSH PETS

with Rupert helped by Elysia Fryer

Summer daze

Summer will be in full swing (we hope!) by the time you are reading this column, and with that in mind, we are writing with optimism and preparing for some fun in the sun.

For our pets though, those balmy days in the garden can be exhausting. Our shade-seekers might love nothing more than enjoying the great outdoors, but the blazing sun is sometimes a little much. Having two little people to chase around the garden, Rupert can’t resist the sunshine, so we’ve been shopping for some ‘cool kit’ to help him in the heat. We hope it’s helpful!

When we’re not barbecuing or picnicking in the garden, summer, for us, is about getting out and enjoying the glorious landscapes on our doorstep. Rupert’s favourite walks include trips to the beach and hikes up the hills. For us, we like to ensure there’s a pit-stop for a drink or bite to eat. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite spots below.

All of that, plus a catch up with the gorgeous Arlo, the happy-go-lucky cockapoo and dog-child of Hooker & Young Wynyard stylist, Millie Nesbitt.

Have a pawsome summer!

Walks with pubs

Get out and explore the region this summer with your four-legged friend. Our pick of walking routes with a pooch-friendly pit-stop…

Cod Beck Reservoir & The Golden Lion

to Low Newton-by-the-Sea. The village has an open ended square of beautiful cream-washed cottages looking out onto the glorious sandy beach. In the centre of the square is The Ship Inn - a favourite for bar snacks, pub meals and craft ale from the pub’s very own microbrewery. Head back across the beach towards Embleton before the sun sets and take in stunning views of the coastline with the castle as a beautiful, silhouetted backdrop. shipinnnewton.co.uk

Roseberry Topping & The Kings Head

Swamp Cooler Vest - Dog Cooling Jacket

innerwolf.co.uk

ivyandduke.co.uk

woof.co.uk

Give your four-legged friend a hand during a summer heatwave with Rupert’s pick of products to help them feel cool… Petlibro

johnlewis.com

A tranquil walk around Cod Beck Reservoir makes for an ideal summer stroll. Park up in the quaint country village of Osmotherley and head along the quiet country road until you reach the reservoir. A clear path leads you round the water, or you can venture a little further up into the woods, if you’ve got an energetic pooch on your hands. Once you’ve completed the route, head back towards Osmotherley for hearty comfort food at the beautiful Golden Lion. goldenlionosmotherley.co.uk

Low Newton-by-the-Sea & The Ship Inn Park up near Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club in Embleton, cross the course and head for the beach. A brisk sandy paws walk along the seafront will bring you

Luxe pet Q&A

Arlo is a one-year-old toy cockapoo. A ball of energy who loves nothing more than being the centre of attention and exploring the great North East with his family. His mum Millie is a stylist at Hooker & Young Wynyard…

LUXE WALKS

Anywhere we can throw a tennis balleither on the beach or a woodland walk.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT

Arlo’s perfect day out is having a long walk where he can make friends and chase a tennis ball, then going for a puppuccino and breakfast!

DOGGY DOWNTIME

He loves nothing more than a lazy morning filled with tummy tickles. If the sun isn’t shining and we’re not out exploring, he loves cosying up on the couch with mam and dad with a big blanket watching Harry Potter.

HOUND HABITS

A part-time parrot, he loves to sit on your shoulder.

Take in spectacular views of the North York Moors, Teesside, the coastline and beyond with a hike up Roseberry Topping. Park up at the foot of the hill and trail through woodland paths and rocky terrains until you reach the top. Descend the same way or in a loop, meeting back at the track towards the car park, where you’ll be able to take a tiny detour to the nearby, dog-friendly King’s Head Inn - the perfect spot for a pint and a bite to eat. inncollectiongroup.com/kings-head-inn

Tynemouth Circular & Pleased To Meet You

A pooch-friendly promenade stroll with a cocktail waiting. The Tynemouth Circular takes you from Low Lights car park in North Shields, along the beautiful coastline and down Tynemouth highstreet, packed full of independent shops, cafes and pubs, including Pleased To Meet You - experts when it comes to cocktails, gins, ales and live DJs on a weekend. ptmy-tynemouth.co.uk

PUPPY PAMPER

Arlo loves a bath, but always gets the zoomies for 20 mins after a washwhich is not so relaxing!

DOG’S BEST FRIEND

Depends on the day and who he’s been with the most - typically his mam is his favourite for snuggles and attention. If he’s feeling cheeky his dad is his go-to for a game of tug of war.

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY

Summer trips to Cornwall and getting called ‘Waffle Dog’ by all the kids.

PUPPY A-LISTER

Ed Sheeran - he’s got the same hair and can bark a good tune out when requested.

Don’t forget to get in touch and send in pics of your pet for our next issue via Facebook and Instagram…

HIP HOTELS

It’s on the up, so get ready to elevate the Alpine adventures with a series of new exhilarating activities ready for the summer/autumn season

When the snow melts, Verbier transforms into a summer haven for families, peace-and-quiet seekers and adrenaline junkies alike. The dramatic landscape offers so much to explore, as well as providing a gathering place for the crème de la crème of multiple disciplines. For this issue, I wanted to offer something very ‘hip’ and an alternative to a hotel.

Hiking across the Alps in the summer is one of the coolest must-do holidays for 2024. Enjoy the amazing views, the fresh air, and the prospect of an excellent lunch on a mountain. The stress of work couldn’t be further from your mind. Unlike skiing, though in the summer, there are no lift queues and no crowded restaurants. Relax in a luxury chalet on a mountain top and enjoy clean air, great food and walking the mountains; no wonder it is the most talked about break right now - amazing for active couples and family holidays. The idea of a chalet break began while I was wondering - as one of a group of friends was approaching a big birthday and looking into booking a special trip together - just how much it would cost to rent one of those amazing places that you see in glossy ski brochures. Not just a luxury chalet, but something beyond that, right at the top of the pamper scale. Well, we found Bramble Ski.

As the frozen landscape melts away, an abundance of wildflowers and new life springs into action up in the Alps. Our home for the trip is the magnificent Chalet les Etrennes, a luxurious six-bedroom super-chalet located in the heart of Verbier. Ideally located, tucked away on the south west-facing Savoleyres side, the chalet has sublime views encompassing the village below, and the imposing Mont Blanc massif. The finish and level of craftsmanship throughout the chalet is second to none and every piece has been carefully selected to create a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere. You can hire it fully catered or self-catering. It sleeps 12 and has a steam room and outdoor hot tub.

All Bramble Ski chalets are stunning and there are various sizes, depending on how many of you are travelling and which

location you choose. The living and entertaining areas are sumptuous and spacious with plenty of outdoor space to relax too. The chalets are as luxurious as any 5-star hotel.

With an unrivalled portfolio of exclusive properties - from picturesque, intimate and centrally located apartments, to lavish seven-bedroom chalets - Bramble Ski’s handpicked selection of chalets promises an escape like no other.

Far beyond the walls of their magnificent chalets, you have a 24-hour concierge service ready to arrange all manner of alpine activities; from heli-biking and guided rock climbing, to meditative sound bathing, dining experiences under the stars, aerial yoga in the forest and much more, the opportunities for adventure are endless. You have a carefully selected team of mountain experts all with amazing local knowledge, revealing hidden secrets that fully immerse guests in the captivating world of summer in the Alps. Activities include:

HELI BIKING

Heli-biking offers the ultimate adrenaline rush for those seeking adventure, serving as the exhilarating summer alternative to heliskiing. Experience the thrill of exploring trails and areas inaccessible by traditional lifts, unveiling hidden gems in Verbier and Zermatt. Under the expert guidance of seasoned guides, guests embark upon a journey filled with excitement and discovery.

MOUNTAIN SOUND BATHS

An experience not to miss engage in a therapeutic and meditative journey immersed in the harmonious sounds and vibrations produced by an array of instruments including gongs, tuning forks, and crystal bowls in the serene tranquillity of the mountains, allowing the natural sounds to transport you to a state of deep relaxation. This holistic approach to wellness provides an immersive soundscape, where you experience a full-body meditative journey amidst the breathtaking mountain landscape.

AERIAL YOGA

An amazing experience the harmonious fusion of traditional asana yoga with the

artistry of aerial yoga amidst the enchanting alpine forest. Suspended by silk fabrics and ropes, find solace in a serene sanctuary perfectly nestled within nature, allowing for an uninterrupted practice. Under the guidance of an experienced instructor, gracefully flow through each pose, feeling deeply connected to the natural world.

THE FONDUE HORSE CART

Available exclusively in Verbier, the Fondue Horse Cart is the ultimate Swiss fondue dining experience. Jump on board the fondue carriage, custom-built for dining, and enjoy fondue prepared with locally produced cheese. Along the way, the cart passes by the fromagerie where the cheese has come from. The experience is complete with local wines and eau vie, all while the cart meanders through the Swiss Mountains as the sun sets.

STAR GAZING MOUNTAIN DINING EXPERIENCE

Dine under the stars by candlelight, savouring a selection of local dishes crafted by private, Michelin trained chefs. And for an additional adventurous twist to the dining experience, under the guidance of a specialist alpine foraging expert. After dinner, unwind with conversation as you gaze at the clear mountain sky, marvelling at the celestial display above.

HIKING AND ROCK CLIMBING

With some of the world’s best hiking routes in Europe to explore, Bramble Ski ensures that no part of the mountain is left unexplored. Guided by an in-house hiking expert, guests can meander through meadows bursting with alpine flora, pass sparkling turquoise lakes, and be lucky enough to spot some local wildlife, from chirping marmots to soaring golden eagles. Its carefully selected team of hiking guides possess unparalleled expertise of the mountains, revealing hidden secrets that fully immerse guests in the captivating world of summer in the Alps.

I cannot recommend a summer chalet break enough - whether you’re looking for a high energy holiday, or simply a chance to relax in the mountains. With private catering, chauffeur service and housekeeping already a staple of luxury holidays - guests are truly spoiled. A dedicated pre-arrival concierge mean and in-resort concierge, holidays are unique to each guest’s specific requirements, where they can decide exactly what they want out of their trip, without the hassle of planning.

GETTING THERE

Flights available from Newcastle direct to France and connecting to Switzerland.

brambleski.com

Newcastle Aspire Lounge marks a world first

Aspire, Swissport’s lounge business, has unveiled a new three-tier service product across the expanded lounge space at Newcastle Airport, offering travellers an unrivalled choice in luxury and comfort ahead of their journeys

Aspire Executive Lounges and Newcastle Airport have opened their brand-new lounge, following a multi-million refurbishment and expansion to the lounge footprint, offering a significant increase to capacity for passengers wishing to relax and make use of the facilities during the busy summer period.

As part of its strategy to bring innovation and an enhanced customer experience, Newcastle will be the first lounge to offer three lounge products to passengers. Alongside the core Aspire offering will be two new options, Luxe by Aspire and The Suite by Aspire.

Luxe by Aspire benefits from exclusive self-service food and beverage options and bespoke private and open working spaces aimed particularly for the business traveller. The Suite by Aspire provides dedicated staff

providing meet and greet and a fully hosted table service akin to a high-end restaurant and serving freshly prepared meals.

All three tiers will benefit from a wide range of delicious food and beverages as well as convenient charging facilities, high speed internet, digital newspapers and magazines, plus HD television and flight screens.

The new lounge was meticulously designed in collaboration with award-winning commercial interior designers DV8 Designs and will create an additional 17 permanent job roles.

David Collyer, Global Vice President of Executive Lounges, says: “We’re delighted to bring this new product to Newcastle. This new approach is the result of extensive research and a deep understanding of what our customers truly want from their lounge experience.

“Lounges have seen a huge increase in demand from passengers wanting an

Lounges have seen a huge increase in demand from passengers wanting an elegant space to relax and dine, whether for business or pleasure

elegant space to relax and dine, whether for business or pleasure. The addition of Luxe and The Suite will mark a real step-change in delivering the premium service our guests are looking for.”

He adds: “Our vision is to translate the premium hotel experience into the executive lounge experience. Aspire is the first in the aviation sector to join the prestigious Institute of Hospitality and UK Hospitality, and we are fully committed to becoming the world’s leading airport hospitality brand.”

Dean Ward, Director of Commercial at Newcastle International Airport, says: “We are committed to giving our passengers the best possible Airport experience and work closely with our business partners to ensure

that we continue to provide the products and services that passengers are looking for.

“The new Aspire Lounge is stunning and will provide passengers with a luxurious environment to enjoy prior to boarding their flight. The lounge is just one of several, multi-million pound improvement projects that we have been working hard on over the past 12 months, which we are very much looking forward to passengers seeing on their next visit!”

Experience the Aspire Classic, the epitome of traditional lounge luxury. Unwind in a relaxed setting with complimentary drinks, a self-service buffet, HD TV's, free newspapers, magazines, and Wi-Fi. For a premium experience, indulge in Luxe by Aspire, designed especially for business travellers and open to eligible airline guests. Upgrade on the day at reception for access to private work booths and an enhanced self-service food and beverage selection. For an exclusive top-tier experience, opt for Suite by Aspire offering restaurant-like service, premium welcome drinks, and an exclusive menu upon arrival. Enjoy the best views of the airfield in this adults-only retreat. Use the discount code NCLASPIRE20 to elevate your experience even further.

Scan the QR code and use the code NCLASPIRE20 at checkout to receive a Luxe magazine discount.

Luxury escapes from Newcastle Airport

Newcastle Airport is your gateway to a world of luxury this summer, with over 65 direct destinations and several onward connections

Not only will Newcastle Airport’s flights whisk you away to amazing destinations across the world, but the on-site facilities will ensure your holiday starts from the moment you walk through the door.

You will notice a huge difference in the passenger experience thanks to the airport’s £20 million investment across several catering outlets, the world’s first three-tier lounge product and a new security search area. Here are some of the amazing places you can visit from Newcastle Airport this summer…

Cape Verde

Located on the west coast of Africa, Cape Verde is one of ten volcanic islands offering year-round sunshine. It’s no wonder it’s compared to the Maldives, with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you enjoy total relaxation, epic hikes, surfing, or wildlife spotting, Cape Verde has something for every type of traveller.

Where to stay:

Dubai

Voted as Tripadvisor’s Most Popular Destination in the world, Dubai is the ultimate UAE metropolis. With miles of golden sands, an iconic skyline, and one of the world’s largest shopping centres, Dubai certainly won’t disappoint. The guaranteed sultry climate will allow you to lie back and relax on the famous Jumeirah Beach in the shadows of the skyscrapers. Or, if an Arabian adventure is more your vibe, why not go on a desert tour followed by a safari dinner experience? For a more authentic experience, visit the city’s old town, Dubai Creek, and wander around the souks where you’ll find spices, hand-woven textiles, and local delicacies.

Where to stay: Atlantis the Royal, The St Regis, One&Only Royal Mirage

Kefalonia

This breathtakingly beautiful island is the largest in the Ionian Sea and is well-known for being the backdrop of the Blockbuster film, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. It’s home to several dreamy beaches, but the OG has to be Myrtos. It is quite simply the trademark of Kefalonia. Dine at a seafront taverna in the quaint fishing village of Fiskardo, followed by a stroll around Asos, one of the most photographed places on the island.

Where to stay: F Zeen Retreat, Hotel Emelisse, Tesoro Blue Hotel & Spa

Fly to Kefalonia up to three times a week with Jet2.com and TUI

Ibiza

Ibiza: where Cosmopolitan flair meets Mediterranean charm. This Balearic beauty has so much more to offer than just its nightlife. Yes, Café Del Mar is one of the most iconic sunset spots, but the island also has endless beaches, epic hikes, and elegant eateries, not to mention the historic heart of the Old Town.

A trip to Ibiza wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Formentera just a short ferry ride

away. Here you’ll be blown away by serene scenery, hidden beaches and a glimpse of local life.

Where to stay: OKU, The Standard, Nobu, Six Senses

Fly to Ibiza up to 13 times a week with Jet2.com, TUI, and Ryanair

Paphos

The coastal city of Paphos offers everything you could want and more from a summer escape. Unwind on several beautiful beaches such as Coral Bay or Aphrodite’s Rock and take a dip in the warm and inviting Mediterranean. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picture-perfect harbour before dining at a local taverna serving the best seafood or Greek favourites. Delve into the city’s rich history and explore ancient sites like the Tombs of Kings, or the House of Dionysus.

Where to stay: The Elysium, Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort, SENTIDO Thalassa Coral Bay

Fly to Paphos up to seven times a week with Jet2.com, TUI and Ryanair

In

it for the long haul >>

Make the dream a reality and tick that long-awaited ‘maybe next year’ destination on the bucket list! Onward connecting from Newcastle International Airport is a breeze, with seamless one-stop connections to worldwide destinations via eight international hubs. Access some of the most desirable holiday destinations including Los Angeles, Miami, Singapore, and many more.

L.A.

Los Angeles, City of Angels, La-la-la Land, the list goes on. You have to visit this incredible place at least once in your lifetime. Delve into the glitz and glamour by visiting must-see landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios and Griffith Observatory. Live your Pretty Woman fantasy with a shopping spree on Rodeo Drive or get your tastebuds tingling with a spot of food at Nobu; a firm favourite among A-list celebs. Once you’ve experienced the hustle and bustle, you’ll want to hire a car and explore where the locals live, like Santa Monica or Malibu.

Where to stay: Shutters on the Beach, The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Beverly Wilshire

Fly to Los Angeles with a one-stop connection in London Heathrow, Paris, Dublin, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam

Miami

Miami offers a vibrant blend of sun, sand, and style. It’s famous for its beaches, vibrant nightlife and international influence. Immerse yourself in the city’s diverse culture with visits to Little Havana and the Wynwood Walls. Miami’s energy and charm ensure an impressive getaway for all.

Where to stay: Faena Hotel, The Edition, Four Seasons

Fly to Miami with a one-stop connection in London Heathrow, Paris, Dublin, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam

Singapore

A journey to Singapore promises you an unforgettable experience. The futuristic skyline and iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park will leave you in awe. You may be surprised to learn that, unlike some other megacities, Singapore is known as the ‘Garden City’ with tree-lined streets and colourful botanical blooms – a total contrast to the urban sprawl.

Where to stay: Raffles, Shangri-LA, Mandarin Oriental

UK GETAWAY: Aldwark Manor Estate

Elysia Fryer checks in for a fabulous foodie getaway at Aldwark Manor Estate…

STAY HERE

A pretty drive along winding roads and up a sweeping driveway brings you to Aldwark Manor Estate - an independent and indulgent country hotel set in 200 acres of glorious North Yorkshire countryside. Go here for a refined experience in luxury hospitality - from the sumptuous suites and stunning interiors, to the elegant grounds, the vast golf course and more recently, a new restaurant turning seasonal food into art.

Set in the beautiful village of Aldwark, the name derives from the old Saxon ‘ald weorc’ meaning ‘old fort’, referring to the Roman fort guarding the ferry crossing on the old Roman road passing through Aldwark to York. There’s lots of fascinating history surrounding the estate and the village, and the team have done a wonderful job in combining its original features and stories with the modern luxuries that come with staycationing in style.

STYLE

Described as ‘never ordinary, always Aldwark’, what is so incredibly refreshing about this place is its determination not to follow the crowd. It owns its style and is unique and charming in equal measure. Aldwark Manor is traditional with a modern twist - combining original country house features with funky furnishings, bold patterns and the confidence to ‘do things differently’.

The dark brickwork and bottle green window frames are instantly striking, as is the water feature sitting elegantly at the front of the

main building. Inside, the dark wood creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling panelling, in contrast to contemporary touches including glitzy chandeliers, the fully retractable roof and windows overlooking the sweeping grounds, and the central bar circling an indoor golden tree in the Elements restaurant. There’s a perfect balance between old and new, and it is magnificently done.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

There are so many reasons to love this place, and during our stay I make a note to notice those little moments that make a big impact. The first being the ‘wow’ moment as you drive up towards the main building, sitting in all its imposing glory; then the peace and tranquility you feel as you walk past the water feature towards the reception. Our next ‘this is the life’ moment comes as we say cheers with a pre-dinner cocktail on the terrace, overlooking the glorious green landscape. An expertly-crafted margarita, enjoyed outside as day turns to dusk - is there anything better?

The hotel’s style and sophistication is certainly worth a mention. Everything is so incredibly well put together and the vibe is calming and classy throughout; from the scents filling the communal spaces, to the interior and of course the taste sensations delivered in the hotel’s bar and restaurants. Chartwell is the hotel’s newest addition, and it’s certainly a bucket-list foodie experience. More on that later. Next up is the hotel’s major spa refurbishment, due to open in 2025. After experiencing Aldwark’s latest

projects and renovations, we can’t wait to see the region’s newest spa taking shape in the coming months.

LAY YOUR HEAD

Aldwark’s sumptuous suites are the perfect place to lay your head after an indulgent evening in one of the restaurants, an afternoon on the golf course, or a day

exploring the local area. Rooms are sleek and contemporary, yet incredibly comfortable and well thought out. Complete with a seating area overlooking the expansive grounds and golf greens, stylish artworks adorning the walls and Molton Brown toiletries in the bright and light bathroom, you can rest peacefully in the luxuries of Aldwark. A Sensory Retreats

Everything from the pre-dinner snacks and tablewear are intertwined to create what can only be described as a ‘work of art’

Luna Eyes self-heating eye mask is placed on our pillows – a lovely touch to encourage a great night’s sleep.

The hotel comprises of several rooms and suites in the main house, as well as South Lodge - a beautiful self-contained cottage with private hot tub and far-reaching views across the Vale of York.

FOOD & DRINK

Chartwell brings the very best of locallysourced, seasonal ingredients to the table in a celebration of Yorkshire-inspired British cuisine with a French twist. Everything from the pre-dinner snacks and tableware are intertwined to create what can only be described as a ‘work of art’.

Every drink and dish flows perfectly to the next, explained in detail by the charming and knowledgeable hosts, waiters and sommeliers.

The space itself is beautifully designedwith 1940s glamour at the forefront of the restaurant’s style. Think plush furnishings, patterned curtains and lampshades, and striking mirrored tables. Chandeliers hang from the high ceilings and light floods in through the focal point - floor to ceiling windows in a pyramid shape, overlooking the front of the hotel. Our dinner starts with a glass of champagne by the window, and as darkness draws in, the restaurant twinkles in a soft, warm light.

As an extra treat at the end of our dinner, our host whisks us off our feet and into a secret speakeasy or tasting room, hidden behind the restaurant wall. The perfect spot for an after dinner drink.

Chartwell’s chefs are focused on celebrating the best of what’s in season, and the tasting menu is reflective of the produce that can be found on our doorstep and nearby.

Intertwined with unusual and hit-thespot pairings, each dish really is a work of art.

Snacks of chalk stream trout and poacher with burnt chive get things underway, perfectly washed down with a welcome glass of champagne.

Next up, it’s the bread course, and we are blown away by the effects of something so simple yet so good. It’s a St Andrews Cheddar brioche, served warm with a roasted chicken skin butter. Delicious.

The first of our main courses is salt aged Yorkshire beef, served with caviar, smoked eel and celeriac. It’s a expertly put together savoury dish, with a hint of sharp citrus that cuts through the flavours. Not to mention crockery that looks good enough to break off and eat.

The barbecued, hand-dived scallop is next, served with rich cauliflower, tiny Bramley apple pearls and a creamy bisque that brings the dish together wonderfully. This dish is the star of the show… until the salt aged duck arrives on the table. Cooked to perfection and served with seasonal asparagus and truffle discs.

Life is looking pretty sweet, even more so when the first of the dessert courses arrives. The passion fruit curd is as fresh as can be, served with mango and marigold. And finally, the best cheesecake we’ve tried –strawberry flavours all round, served with yuzu and coconut sorbet.

Chartwell is a feast for the senses. It not only takes you on a journey of fine scents and tastes, every dish and detail looks the part too. It’s one of those experiences where you can willingly give yourself time to take it all in, bottle it up and lock in those memories.

A mind and body break

The worlds of wellness and luxury accommodation collided this spring with the opening of the Anda Barut Collection on the Delice Peninsula in Didim, Turkey. The luxurious new resort marked its official opening with an incredible ‘Olympic Medalist Athletes Wellness Weekend’ giving guests the opportunity to experience activities including running, beach fitness, swimming, rowing, yoga and dance alongside a host of prestigious Olympic athletes.

The weekend wellness event was a

Anda Barut Collection recently teamed up with Olympic athletes to create the ultimate wellness weekend filled with activities to keep the mind, body and soul in great shape. Our Luxe foodie columnist, Chris Baber, was part of the event in Turkey…

once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fitness enthusiasts to rub shoulders with some of the best athletes in the business - taking inspiration from their training techniques, in the spectacular environment of the brand new Anda Barut Collection.

Amongst the British Olympic athletes were: Francis Morgan Thompson, a former decathlete who won gold medals at the 1980 and 1984 Olympic Games and broke four world records; Jamie Baulch, a three-time world champion and Olympic silver medalist in athletics; Paula Radcliffe, known for holding 10 world records in long-distance running; and Rebecca

Adlington, a double Olympic gold medalist in freestyle swimming, were also present. Other athletes included diver Leon Roy Taylor, dancers James and Ola Jordan, and athletics specialist Colin Jackson. The wellness weekend was a truly unique experience, and one the hotel hopes to replicate in the months and years to come. It was a fantastic way to open the resort as the latest Turkish address for luxury and first class service.

Anda Barut Collection is set in 150 acres of land in Didim’s Delice Peninsula, offering 558 rooms and villas. The hotel promises unforgettable experiences and a service

that is second to none - in everything from its food and drink, to its interiors, activities and facilities. While it ticks the boxes for all kinds of luxurious holidays - from family breaks to romantic getaways - its main focus is on nature and wellness.

The hotel is close to both Izmir and Bodrum airports and is just a stone’s throw from tourist and historical sites including Lake Bafa, the Temple of Apollo, the ancient city of Miletus, and the enchanting atmosphere of Ephesus. Historical heritage and stunning natural landscapes are at your fingertips here.

Chris Baber, our Luxe food columnist, played a significant role in the hotel’s opening event, the Olympic Medalist Athletes Wellness Weekend, serving up pre- and post-workout snacks and smoothies to the Olympians and participating hotel guests. He couldn’t wait to share his experience with us…

A unique opportunity for people to experience this beautiful new hotel, but also to rub shoulders with the best of the best, all in the glorious Turkish sunshine

WHAT CHRIS SAID:

I was part of the Olympians’ Wellness Weekend at the Anda Barut Collection in Turkey. The event featured some amazing Olympians including Colin Jackson, Denise Lewis, Daley Thompson, Jamie Baulch, Paula Radcliffe, Rebecca Adlington, to name a few - all giving fitness classes or lessons based on their sport.

For me, it was certainly a ‘pinch me’ moment because I grew up loving athletics, training at Hexham. I’ve got to know Colin Jackson as a friend, and to be out there in his company, was just great. To do a run with Paula Radcliffe was just incredible. It was quite a moment for me.

This was a unique invitation for people to experience this beautiful new hotel and all of its incredible facilities, but also to rub shoulders with the best of the best, all in the glorious Turkish sunshine.

My involvement was to produce pre- and post-workout smoothies, shakes and energy balls using local Turkish ingredients. Paula would finish her run, they would stop by my little station on the seafront and they’d enjoy these lovely tahini and pistachio energy balls or green smoothies with spinach and avocado. There were all sorts of amazing fresh ingredients for me to work with, and they went down very well.

The focus was, of course, on fitness, but there was also so much luxury to enjoy. You could chill and have a nice time in the sun, while enjoying great food and company

We also had Ian Waite and James and Ola Jordan from Strictly Come Dancing doing fitness classes based around dance, and then there were other activities like boxercise, rowing, and yoga - led by Leon Taylor, who is an Olympic diver. There was an eclectic mix of athletes from all different walks of life. It was jam-packed every dayin the sun, in Turkey.

The focus was, of course, on fitness, but there was also so much luxury to enjoy. You could chill and have a nice time in the sun, while enjoying great food and company. In the evenings, there was some fantastic food in the hotel’s restaurants - loads of local seafood, right on the beach. It was just magic to be able to interact with people - the guests, journalists, athletes. It was an incredibly unique experience and I just loved every second of it.

It was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, and I’m hopefully going to get involved with other similar events. Sport has always been such as big part of my life, particularly during my time training with Tynedale Harriers when I was back home in Hexham. I looked up to these people and now, to be there with them, serving food during a wellness weekend, it was really special both personally and professionally. barutanda.com

Shining a light

Charlotte Gibbons is the brains behind Worthy Wax - a beautiful scented candle business giving back to the community with 10% of sales pledged to the Trussell Trust Foodbanks. What started as a kitchen-based business in the pandemic, is now lighting up the luxury candle market in the North East and beyond. Luxe checks in…

What can you tell us about Worthy Wax?

Before Covid, my husband Steven and I spent quite a lot of time supporting the Trussell Trust, which had a local Gateshead foodbank. When lockdown hit and social distancing was put in place, it made it difficult to donate produce and help out at the food bank.

I remember sitting there thinking, ‘we are so lucky that our children are fed and we are living in a nice home’. So I was wracking my brain trying to think of new ways to donate to the trust - and, being quite a creative person - I decided to have a go at candle making.

We bought a really cheap candle making kit on Amazon. The next day, it got delivered and we absolutely loved it. We spread the word to our family and friends and all of a sudden things started to go a little bit mad and we couldn't make enough. So, we started buying the kits from wholesalers, this time using proper soy wax. We set up a temporary website and Facebook page and before we knew it, we were making them in hundreds and they were flying out, all over the country.

Every evening, the kids would go to bed and we’d be up until 2am making candles. At that point, the full £10 would go to charity - we were only making them as a hobby and to give something back during difficult times.

Why did you choose to support the Trussell Trust?

I think we saw an advert that said something like you could feed a family of four for about £4.50 and it really got us thinking about how we could help. So, in essence, our £10

candle would feed a family of four like usand that really hit home. We were fortunate enough to be able to give something back.

What is unique about Worthy Wax products?

You are getting a really nice product, but also donating to charity. It's a win-win, and a no-brainer if you’re a lover of home fragrance like me.

I have always loved Jo Malone, so thought I’d have a go at creating some homemade candles of a similar quality. I wanted to create a really high-end candle with soy wax and essential oils. I use exactly the same products you would see in a £200 candle, but with the Worthy Wax price point, you are getting way more for your money - and also contributing to a great cause.

The scents themselves are also really special. They’ve got the best ingredients and fragrance oils you can buy, so they’re very punchy, almost like you’ve sprayed yourself with a perfume. We use only soy wax and try to be as sustainable as possible in our production and packaging.

What can you tell us about the process of your handmade products?

Every part of the process is done by hand, from start to finish - and I think that really does make the difference. I make sure every candle is perfectly poured before packaging and completing the product ready for purchase.

When customers are getting to know a new brand - particularly when it’s local and homemade - they love to know the story and where the products have come from, and it’s easy for me to do that because I am the person making the candles in our studio.

I think we’ve done well to create fragrances suited for all different types of people, environments and occasions, as we’ve had a very even spread in terms of popularity. They’re all selling really well across the board, which is great.

Scent is definitely a very powerful thing, and certain fragrances can mean different and very unique things to different people. What does scent mean to you?

It has always been about memory making for me. We had a lovely holiday to Bamburgh when Felix was two. We spent the whole week on the beach and that smell of sea salt, the sand and the beaming sunshine will forever remind me of that time, so that’s why we created the Sand Dunes candlea charming English coastal allure. Straight away, when I light that candle, it takes me back to that moment. A smell can really transport you back to a moment, and it’s incredibly powerful. It’s really comforting.

What’s next for Worthy Wax?

We’ve recently launched our scented wax melts, to give a bit of variety and to offer something a little bit different in terms of fragrance and style.

Shortly we’re going to be launching refills, so you don’t have to buy the ceramic jar each time if you’re a returning customer. If you buy the large coffee table candle, you can then keep that jar as a staple piece, adding new soy wax refills when the time comes.

We’ve had people enquiring about workshops and events, so I’m hoping to be able to offer those experiences at the studio in Carliol Square in Newcastle in the coming months. We’d really love to look at creating bespoke candles with wedding parties, just to offer something really personal and special.

And finally, we’re going to be working on a subscription service so people can be treated to a Worthy Wax fragrance - be it a candle or a wax melt - every month.

How did you select the fragrances? I absolutely love scent, so narrowing it down was the hardest part for me. We have a collection of 12 scents, and I like to think we’ve covered all bases - from Sand Dunes and Still Sunday, to Winter, Zingy Zest and Country Garden - hopefully there’s a fragrance that means something to most people.

I started by picking some of my favourite scents and pairing them together to create a ‘feeling’ if you like. My go-to scents are things like: tonka bean, myrrh, lavender, nectarine - lots of natural smells.

And finally, your three luxe things in life? In terms of fragrance, the candle that would represent me would definitely be ‘Winter’tonka bean is my signature scent for sure. I love interiors - if I’m not wallpapering, I’m painting, I’m constantly changing things around and making our home just a lovely place to be. But most importantly, it has to be spending time with my family and making time to be together at home or in nature.

worthywax.co.uk

Cathy Dean has found a niche in the North East market when it comes to blending architectural thinking with interior design. Over a virtual cuppa, she tells us about her journey from set and stage design in London, to life-altering full ground-up builds in the countryside

Living smart

Studio Dean is an architecturefocused interior design business bringing the love back into living.

It’s not only about making homes look and feel beautiful, it’s about bettering our lives to ensure our sanctuary is our favourite place to be.

Cathy Dean is a North East native who has used her experience in set and stage design in London, to build her own interior design business backed by the beautiful countryside that surrounds us in this part of the world.

“The North East is a huge part of me,” she starts, with a smile.

“I’ve lived all over the region. I went to school in Teesside, college in Durham and university in Newcastle. When I graduated, I went to London where the streets were paved with gold. At that point, I didn’t think I would come back and settle up here, but life has a funny way of figuring itself out, and now I can’t imagine being anywhere but here.”

The North East and surrounding landscapes have very much been a part of Cathy’s journey, business and ethos. From the way in which she works and the people she works with, to her nature-inspired wallpaper collection, the countryside between Newcastle and Northumberland (just outside of Ponteland) has become a huge part of what she does at Studio Dean.

“I moved down to London in my early twenties and worked in set and stage design. As I started to reach my thirties, I acknowledged that I didn’t want to do

I wanted to focus on architecture-led interior design, which is more about how to live in your home, with real links to home organisation and the psychology of living in spaces

in the North East and I came to the conclusion that there would be space for me - space for something different.

“There were a lot of people doing interior decoration at the time, and that’s great, but where their focus would be on the finishes and the furnishings, I wanted to focus on architecture-led interior design, which is more about how to live in your home, with real links to home organisation and the psychology of living in spaces.”

So with a return to the North East, Studio Dean was born, and since then, Cathy has been doing something different in the industry. Of course, interior design is a creative, aesthetic business, but at Studio Dean, it’s just as much about creating liveable spaces as it is lovely spaces.

Cathy’s niche is mastering the two - and pushing the boundaries in the process.

“Our whole ethos was, and still is, about homes that look and work beautifully,” she says.

“It’s a given that every home that we work on will be beautiful, but our first goal is to make sure the house works for the individual or family. We’ll look at the fact that someone cycles to work, or they’ve got three kids, or 14 dogs!

“I love people. I love knowing everything about who they are (I’m honestly quite nosey), so each home I am creating has a story behind it.

to someone’s lifestyle, rather than just an aesthetic difference.

“Our houses are fundamentally changed for the better, once we’re done with them.”

A client’s first step with Studio Dean is a discovery call, where Cathy will simply get to know them. Following that, she will visit the home and get to know how they live.

“I’ll ask questions about how they live day to day. ‘Do you actually eat at the dining table, or do you love a TV dinner?’.

“Maybe the client likes to lie in on a weekend and they start the day reading the newspaper in bed with a coffee. So for them, I’m going to create a coffee station in the master bedroom. It’s important for them, it’s part of their lives.

“I’ll be asking questions like: ‘do you play sports?’, ‘what sports do you play?’, ‘when do you play them?’, ‘what’s your working life like?’, ‘do you have kids?’, ‘how often do you entertain guests?’.

“It’s about making sure people are living and enjoying every part of their homes.

Genuinely having an interest in how people live is the best way to be able to create the perfect home.

that job forever, so I started to retrain in interior design.”

Cathy’s love for interior design was born out of a genuine interest in working on her own interior styling in her first flat, and even still, in every project she works on, she gets that same sense of excitement and satisfaction.

“I quickly realised that styling my home was more than a hobby, and because I’d always been in set design, there were quite a lot of transferable skills.

“That was the point I decided to do some courses to figure out if it was just something I loved, or whether I envisaged a whole new career. Very quickly it was going to be a career. I loved it.”

After studying the art and becoming qualified in interiors, Cathy worked for a designer in London and loved it. It was when her daughter arrived and her lifestyle changed, the cogs started turning and she would have to start thinking about her next move.

“When Phoebe arrived I was living in an imaginary world where I thought my child would just ‘fit in’ with my lifestyle - and, of course, that was not the case.

“We didn’t intend to come back to the North East to be honest, but Phoebe had other ideas! My husband came home from work one day and I said, ‘I don’t want to live in London with a baby, I need to go back home’.

“So we did. We moved back to the North East to be near family. At that point, I was lucky enough to keep my job, so I was working remotely and travelling up and down to service London clients. But then I started to look at the interior landscape

“I was chatting to a client yesterday who lives on a busy working farm, and they have a young baby, so they need a different house to somebody who is an empty nester with grandkids coming to visit on a weekend. Loads of what I do is centred around getting to know the individual or family, and figuring out how they live in their homes.

“In the UK we just expect that the home is what the home is - that’s where the kitchen is, that’s where the living room is. I come in and go, ‘but why?’ - we can change it and make it as perfect for you as possible.

“So essentially, Studio Dean was born back in 2016 and has been growing in that form ever since. We’ve gone from smaller, single-room projects to now really only working on full-house projects. They tend to be major renovations, where we can get really involved and make a huge difference

“I have a client who entertains between 20 and 30 people in their house every weekend. I’ll be doing something completely different for them, compared to a couple who like to go out every weekend. I think sometimes there’s a bit of a ‘one size fits all’ approach, especially now because there’s so much online, but that’s not how we work.”

As Cathy and I chat about the importance of creating homes we can live and love in, it’s really interesting that, although interior design is the main focus of our conversation, there’s no talk of trends.

Admitedly, if ever I’m looking at changing up a room in our home, my thoughts turn straight to social media. We’re very much living in a modern world where if you haven’t ‘pinned’ it, you’re not doing it.

Interior inspiration and influence is so readily available online, and Cathy explains why ‘Pinterest blindness’ is stopping people from creating the homes they truly love, for reasons unique to them.

“We actively don’t follow trends,” she explains.

“Before we talk about any aesthetics -

colours, fabrics, furnishings, worktopswe tell the client to park all of that. The interior architecture comes first.

“We’re going to make sure that when the kids walk through the door in their sports kit, there’s somewhere to put it. We’re going to make sure that when the dog walks in covered in mud, you can wash them before you go into the main house. We work on those necessities first, then we do a ‘style meet’, where they come into the studio and we try to cure them of ‘Pinterest blindness’.

“Everyone is looking at what everybody else is doing. Maybe they’ve liked or ‘pinned’ a photograph on Pinterest, Instagram or TikTok. The algorithm is then going to serve you the same thing, because you’ve acknowledged it. It then serves you the same stuff over and over again, until eventually you convince yourself that that is what you need. That happens a hundred times over with a hundred different things, and it has a direct impact on our ideas and spending habits. What the algorithm can’t do is actually get to know you and see first hand what you need from your house. I can pull more out of it than an algorithm can!” Cathy’s studio ‘style meet’ - which always involves cake! - is where the visuals really start to come to life. But her take on a mood board is not about Pinterest boards and magazine clippings. Again, it’s about getting to know the client on a deeper level and understanding what they love, what they hate, and more importantly, what they need from a home.

“During the style meet, we present images from all over the world. A big slideshow with tons and tons of inspiration. During this time, we’re trying to gauge the things they like and also the things they really don’t like - that is just as important.

“When they’ve gone, I pull together the things they love - it could be loads of wood,

lots of natural lines or curves, someone else might pick out patterns or they might be drawn to a certain colour palette. That is the best way for me to get an insight into what they genuinely love, without being swayed by social media and what everybody else is doing to their homes.”

“We don’t ask the client what they want, we find out what they need and what they are drawn to, and then we deliver on that. Often what they need is very different to what they thought they wanted in their head, which is really interesting. I love to show people that there’s something more out there.”

In essence, like many relationships, there’s a lot of hard work and ‘getting to know’ involved before anything is set in stone. And Cathy is convinced it’s the key to getting it right and really creating something special.

“The goal is for client’s to look at the plans and say, ‘that’s my home - that’s where I’m happy’.

“Everybody should be able to walk into their homes and it should be better than anywhere they’ve ever been. It should feel like their own. It really doesn’t matter what your neighbour or your nan thinks, it’s how it makes you feel inside. That’s at the heart of what we’re doing. Solving the everyday trickery of life, making sure your house works, but also making sure that it is awesome, so you feel really comfortable in that space.”

Like many conversations these days, Cathy and I chat about pre- and post-Covid life, and how it has affected the way in which we live in so many ways - one of them being how we enjoy our own homes. Personally, in a pre-Covid world, I wasn’t in a place long enough for me to really ‘take it in’. Home was merely a base for dropping my bag and packing it up again to work or travel.

Now, with a home office and little people ‘running the show’, it’s the glue that holds

At Complete Flooring Solutions, we are an independent family business that strives to excel in every aspect of our operations and provide unparalleled customer service to every customer.

When you step into our showroom, you can expect a warm welcome and the coffee maker “Paul” is always at the ready to make your browsing experience all the more enjoyable.

We are proud to employ an incredible team of experienced fitters who hold themselves to the highest standards of craftsmanship, working on homes to large commercial projects.

Our selection of flooring options is vast and varied, with LVT, Carpet, Vinyl, Engineered Wood, Laminate, and Commercial Flooring products all available to peruse.

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our family together. It’s where we retreat as a team. Where our children will grow and memories will be made. So a lot of what Cathy is saying rings true for me. Home is a feeling and is certainly something I’d like to explore some more.

On the other hand, my ears prick up when Cathy speaks of her drive to create homes that really ‘work’ and make living easier. Logistics play a huge part of our daily lives, particularly as parents, and it quite honestly has never made more sense to make our home make more sense!

“Pre-Covid I was banging this drum on my own, saying, ‘your home really matters’,” says Cathy.

“It’s so important to invest in your home. You should be using it for you every dayand if that means that you need a playroom,

“It is very varied, but many of the homes we work on are in the countryside, which really fits in with our values as a business.

“But I really love the challenge of different projects,” she adds.

“My favourite thing to happen is when somebody gets in touch with an ‘ugly duckling’ - sometimes they can be a bit of a wreck and that way, there’s so much to work with. We can really get our teeth into it and really make it amazing.

“We did one on a crescent in Edinburgh, which meant that every wall was curved. I never want to see a curved wall again, but I loved every minute!”

Cathy’s thorough approach to planning and getting to know clients means she and her team can really unpick a home and get the best results from the very start.

That’s what truly sets Studio Dean apart.

“Instead of approaching everything from an interior decorating point of view, what we do is look at the placement of things. We’re not afraid to move things around,” she starts.

“We can make all of that function happen because we’re involved so early in the process. We don’t have to compromise. We can put things where we want to put them. It’s about making a house work. Yes, we can make it beautiful, but we can make it work for you.

“There are so many times I go round and see people and they’ve just accepted that the kitchen has to be where the kitchen is. But why? If you want the kitchen in a better light, let’s move it.

“I talk about laundry rooms all of the time. Clients will say, ‘this is the kitchen and this is the utility’ and I literally say to them, ‘do you undress often as you’re cooking your dinner?’, and they’ll laugh, but then they get it! It just doesn’t make sense - it’s only there out of convenience for the plumber when they were fitting the kitchen - no other reason. Every day, you have a shower upstairs, you put your dirty clothes in the laundry basket, you carry it down the stairs. You wash it - near where you’re cooking your salmon for dinner (!) - then you take it back upstairs again. But because that’s what has always been done, it’s just accepted. We’re not about that. Let’s change things for the better! Loads of our laundry rooms move upstairs, so people have a ‘back kitchen’ or a pantry, which doesn’t have to involve clothing. Instead of having your potatoes stored where your laundry is, you can move things around.

“Changes like this are not limited to mansions. A lot of the time, these changes can be made in a standard size house.

“These are the things that are not giving those ‘Instagram moments’ that interior decoration might, but they are fundamental things that will change your daily life for the better. The houses that we create are really easy to live in. They work.

Calming, restful and inspired by nature are the building blocks that have made up The Studio Dean Edit - a collection of luxury wallpaper and homeware, expertly designed and curated by Studio Dean’s interior designers.

The designs are inspired by our natural landscapes - leaves and feathers foraged from the Northumberland countryside. Think earthy tones, nature-focused designs and fabric-effect wallpaper that stands the test of time.

“Essentially, Studio Dean is about function and making function beautiful. The wallpaper collection we created is on the back of the ‘making function beautiful’ side of the business.

“Inspired by Northumberland landscapes, the designs are scans of leaves that we’ve collected, bark that we’ve manipulated on the computer - really just creating something unique with the nature that surrounds us. We wanted to use those things to fit into a modern, rural home.

“We’re not perfect when it comes to being green, but we wanted to create a bespoke product that was made as sustainably as possible.

“It wasn’t really about going out to market on a big scale. It was more about creating something we could go to our clients with. Something they love and appreciate as much as we do. We then decided that, given that our clients loved it, we wanted to extend it out to other people, and that’s when The Studio Dean Edit was born, with a full collection.

“It’s definitely not the primary focus of the business, but it is doing really well. It’s just quite different on the market. It’s very easy to live with.”

Again, bringing it back to the landscapes around us, 5% of the profits from the eco-friendly EVOLVED collection go to the Sycamore Gap National Trust Fund.

“We were all so sad to hear about the loss of the Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland, so we wanted to do something to help the cause.”

I could honestly chat to Cathy all day about making homes smart. She’s given me so much inspiration to make changes that will have a huge impact on our busy family life. But as we round up our conversation, she looks ahead to a busy year completing big projects.

“By the end of the year we should have our first ground-up build complete in the Lake District, so we’re really excited about that.

“It’s been fantastic to see people really understanding the importance of architectural interior design and how it can have such a huge impact on the lives of homeowners. I am incredibly humbled to be part of that experience for people, and I honestly don’t think it will ever get old.”

great; a wellness space, fantastic; a dining space for 30, amazing. It’s about what works for you. I think Covid changed a lot of people’s mentality and made them realise just how important our homes are to us. It has changed forever, because remote and hybrid working is just a part of life now. And I also think home entertaining is much bigger now.”

As it has developed and grown as a business, Studio Dean has naturally been drawn to the countryside, mainly working on homes in Northumberland, North Yorkshire, the Lake District and Edinburgh.

“At the moment we’re working on a farmhouse in Northumberland, a ground-up build in the Lakes, a Georgian apartment in Edinburgh and a stately home in North Yorkshire,” says Cathy.

“In our home, for example, we’ve got sports kits coming out of our ears, so it means that my life is packing a series of bags for the children. So, in the laundry room, we create pegs for each sports kit they need. They never leave that room. They get washed and put back into the bag. It links to home organisation. It’s really about function.”

Be right back while I rearrange my home. An upstairs laundry room is pending. Why didn’t I think of this before?

Cathy laughs, but she sees these revelations in clients every day, and it’s why she is so brilliant at what she does.

Making life easy and enjoyable sounds simple, but Cathy’s expertise goes a long, long way in making sure it’s possible. Many of Studio Dean’s clients are ‘retreating’, she tells me. Their main focus is to make their homes their primary focus, creating a calming and restful space to live.

studiodean.com

LUXE LOVES

Sophisticated space

Give your garden a luxe glow up this summer with this OKA Swanmore Garden Furniture Rangw. We’re loving the sleek design, perfect for entertaining in a modern, outdoor setting. It’s stylish and incredibly comfortable - the perfect fit. Swanmore Garden Furniture Range oka.com

Durham

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

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LUXE MAMA

with Elysia Fryer

Preparing for a busy summer with small people? Let’s make it a fun one...

Summer loving…

Summer is heating up (we hope!), and as the littlest people at home keep us busy, we’re keeping our diaries busy to ensure it’s one to remember. Finding things to fill the days in the school holidays can be very overwhelming, and it’s easy to see why parents don’t always look

In the garden

forward to the rush of the summer months. But, as I start to muddle through my first summer with two tiny people at home as the nursery bell rings for the end of term, I’m trying to look back on the fond memories I made from my toddler years, and it was always centred around having fun. So with that in mind, this column is all about getting the best out of the summer months - hopefully, as much as possible, outdoors!

Our luxe picks for fun in the sun…

My First Years

Personalised Sand and Water Play Table £119, my1styears.com

Sunny Life

Dino Giant Sprinkler, Into the Wild Khaki £60, uk.sunnylife.com

George and Nora have helped me pick out some terrific toys to help you gear up for glorious days spent in the garden, we’ve been hearing from the experts on the top products for kids parties, and we’re guiding you through some of the diary dates filling our calendars this season. Let’s make it a summer to remember!

A summer of fun

Banwood Bikes

First Go Balance Bike, Red £149, scandiborn.co.uk

Janod Animal Ring Toss Game

£26.50, yesbebe.co.uk

Five ways to have fun with the family this summer…

Adventure Cinema at Raby Castle

Round up the troops and enjoy cinema under the stars this summer at Raby Castle. Grab some popcorn, bring a blanket and a deck chair, and settle in for a number of sensational family screenings throughout July. From Mamma Mia and The Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long, to Encanto and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, there’s something for everyone. Extend your visit to the Raby Estate with a trip to The Plotters Forestan outdoor playground like no other! raby.co.uk

Fireman Sam & In The Night Garden at Darlington Hippodrome

After recently visiting Darlington

Hippodrome for a fantastic production of Bluey’s Big Play, my little ones are keen to check in for more theatre fun this summer. Luckily the Hippodrome has a number of family-friendly shows in the diary, including Fireman Sam - The Great Camping Adventure in July, and In The Night Garden Live in August. darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

Summer Scavenger Hunt at Alnwick Garden

The Alnwick Garden is the perfect place to spend sunny afternoons, and we can’t wait to join in on this summer’s Scavenger Hunt throughout July and August. Pick up a hunt sheet on entrance to the gardens and find the all-important items of Reg the Hedge’s list. What’s more? Your activity sheet will include a host of games and activities for little ones to enjoy at homefrom building a bird nest and growing your own cress, to pressing flowers and making frozen lollies. Summer, sorted! alnwickgarden.com

Gruffalo Orienteering at Dalby Forest Take a trip to Dalby Forest, near Pickering, this summer - it’s the perfect place for

Swim Essentials

Leopard Adventure Paddling Pool £50, johnlewis.com

little ones to let off some steam, searching for 12 Gruffalo markers hidden in the deep, dark wood. Walk, run or skip the course as you enjoy a family-friendly map reading challenge in the great outdoors. Note: the trail is not suitable for pushchairs, prams or mobility vehicles. forestryengland.uk

NE1’s Summer in the City

You’re guaranteed fun in the sun if you take the kids to Newcastle this summer, thanks to NE1’s Summer in the City programme - packing in six weeks of free activities on and around the Quayside. Enjoy everything from Tales on the Tyne storytelling sessions and dance classes by Let’s Party Kids’ Clubs, to yoga and exercise classes and more. getintonewcastle.co.uk

Garden party picks

If, like me, you have a summer baby celebrating a birthday in the sunny months and you’ve got a children’s garden party pending, we have got some great recommendations from a toy expert at The Entertainer…

The summer season in full swing, it marks the perfect opportunity to throw a summer garden party for childrenoffering hours of entertainment in the sun.

My first product recommendation for a summer garden party for children is the Out and About 6-in-1 Games Set. This collection of games has a little slice of everything, allowing each member of the party to join in on the fun! From skipping ropes to frisbees, this collection provides entertainment while improving cognitive abilities such as hand-eye coordination.

Another product I’d recommend for an eventful outdoor summer party is the Lawn is Lava Game from Wahu. This outdoor activity has no player restrictions - meaning everyone can join in. This game tests balance and comes with 25 water balloons - perfect for cooling down in the heat.

Lastly, the Water Wall Play Wall is a great addition to any garden for a children’s party. This product promotes water play and teaches children key problem-solving abilities while keeping them entertained. This game can easily be shared between two or three children at a time and is a great way of introducing young ones to gravity, angles and water flow, in a recreational setting.

thetoyshop.com

School noticeboard

Luxe checks in with local schools on their latest news, achievements and highlights…

Stars

of the stage

Two talented Dame Allan’s teen performers shine on national stage…

Two rising stage stars from Dame Allan’s Schools in Newcastle have landed coveted places with the British Youth Music Theatre (BYMT). Teenagers Ella McFetrich, from Morpeth, and Freya Topping, from Jesmond, were selected to join national performing arts education charity BYMT after a gruelling audition process.

The girls, who have been heavily involved in dance, drama and musical theatre from a very young age, juggle their commitments on stage with their studies and co-curricular pursuits. Ella, 16, has secured a role in BYMT’s summer production of ‘Wonderland in Alice’ - a movement-led reimagining of

Creating opportunities Great Pottery Throw Down star gives workshop to Teesside youngsters…

Yarm Prep School were delighted to host a clay workshop led by Rebecca Norris, a star of the Great Pottery Throw Down. The event brought Year 5 and 6 pupils, together with their teachers, from The Glebe Primary, Linthorpe Primary, Egglescliffe Primary, and Yarm Prep for a day of artistic exploration. Rebecca Norris led the workshop, guiding children in making clay coil pots using various techniques, such as coil building and painting their creations with slip. The workshop drew inspiration from Picasso’s ceramic work, with students applying unique designs to their pots.

The event underscored the importance of creativity and collaboration. Yarm Prep School is committed to sharing their facilities and resources to provide enriching experiences to the local community. The involvement of many children, learning from each other and enjoying the creative process, was a testament to the success of the workshop.

Ceramicist, Rebecca Norris, said: “I hope

Lewis Carroll’s classic tale, exploring Alice as a non-binary character.

“On stage, I enjoy being able to be someone different,” says Ella.

“Bringing joy to audiences through performance is incredibly fulfilling; it’s a chance to unite people and offer them a brief escape from reality.”

Freya, 15, aspires to be an actor and first joined musical theatre school at the age of four. She was chosen to take part in BYMT’s recent production of Animal Farm, in Birmingham.

“I just like being in front of an audience and making people laugh,” says Freya.

“I hope to continue doing musicals but focus more on getting into TV and film. I also like the idea of directing as I have a strong imagination.”

Dame Allan’s Principal, Will Scott, has praised Ella and Freya on their accomplishments:

“Their dedication to their studies and their passion for the performing arts exemplifies the spirit of excellence we strive for in our students. They are shining examples of the extraordinary potential nurtured within our schools, inspiring their peers to pursue their dreams with enthusiasm and determination.”

dameallans.co.uk

that the children take away a sense of achievement from working with the clay and gain a new experience of handling it. Whether they find something they want to pursue further or just have a really fun day with their friends while learning a new skill, it will be beneficial.”

Rachel Shepherd, Art Coordinator at Yarm Prep School, said: “Rebecca’s achievements through her passion are crucial for inspiring the children. Having the space and resources to offer these workshops is hugely beneficial for the local community. It’s fantastic to have so many children involved, all learning from each other and enjoying the creative process, rather than just focusing on the outcome.”

Yarm’s partnership programme has engaged 39 schools in 13 projects over the 2023-24 academic year, involving over 3,500 pupils in more than 7,000 hours of activities. The programme is tailored to meet local schools’ needs, addressing budget and time constraints by providing on-site visits and flexible scheduling. The diverse projects, such as clay workshops, virtual reality sessions, and sports afternoons, complement school curricula and cover often under-resourced areas. Activities vary from large-scale events like the Physics Roadshow, to interactive workshops and on-site days at Yarm School. Feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with teachers and students valuing the collaborative and enriching experiences.

The programme’s success has led to increased interest from additional schools, and the Prep School Hall in the new Hazel Andrews Building, opened in January 2024, will support programme expansion and new strategic partnerships. yarmschool.org

LITTLE MOMENTS

with Nadia McSheffrey

Have you ever landed at the airport and sighed, ‘I need a holiday after this holiday’?

More often than not, a trip away with children can be less about relaxation and more about tantrums and tears. We know that when children are overstimulated, full of sugar and sleepdeprived, our time together can quickly become stressful; but it doesn’t have to be like this. Summer holidays can be relatively calm and thoroughly enjoyable with just a little bit of forward planning and conscious awareness.

Children thrive when they have a flexible routine and so one of the biggest problems with the summer holidays is the lack of structure. It doesn’t matter whether you’re jetting off to the Maldives or packing your tent for a week in the Lake District, you will inevitably have an entirely different schedule from the one you would have at home. This can throw children off-kilter. My advice is to give lots of prior warning about upcoming events or the trip you are about to go on. Young children particularly, thrive on routine, so if you can keep your daily sequence the same, this can help. For example, if you normally have playtime, a walk then a nap before lunch, try to do the same in the new environment. Having familiar creature comforts with you such as teddies, blankets or a favourite snack, will help with the transition. Ask your children to help you with the planning. This is a family holiday so it’s important to balance their requests with your own wants. On our recent trip to Sweden, the three of us sat down and researched together. We wanted to visit some of the more traditional sightseeing destinations but we also found some less obvious things to do like attending a traditional ice hockey match, eating cactus in SoFo, skiing by moonlight and swimming outdoors in the snow. Doing something out of the ordinary can feel really special and can create wonderful lifelong memories.

Having realistic expectations is important going into the summer holidays. Our children are not going to be excited about being strapped into a car or aeroplane seat for five hours. Equally, if we keep them up past their bedtime for three nights in a row, they’re probably going to be grumpy and teary the next day. That’s ok. But if we expect them to be on their best behaviour despite all of the changes and overstimulation, then we’re in for a rude awakening. Expect your children to want to move, to be tired and to be excited. Plan in breaks for them to let off steam, relax in a quiet park or have a complete rest back in your hotel room or villa. Try to see your holiday from your child’s perspective. Often children have an

uncanny knack of teaching us exactly what we need, when we need it. They get us to slow down or speed up! I remember a trip to Rome when our son was four. We had packed so much in on our first day and we were racing from one breathtaking building to another, so as not to miss anything, but then Bodhi heard music and followed the sound. Inside the gates of a beautiful church, some nuns were singing angelically and a priest was offering refreshing drinks to passers-by. Bodhi wandered over and was naturally inquisitive. This meant that we had to slow down and also savour the moment. Without him, we may have bustled past and missed this extraordinary event. In other ways, my son pushes me out of my comfort zone when we’re travelling together. After relaxing at a beautiful resort in Croatia last year, he decided that the two of us should go parasailing off the back of a boat. His enthusiasm was infectious so three hours later, there we were, hanging in mid-air, 500ft above the azure water. More often than not, following our child’s lead can actually take us to magnificent destinations. Look at the holiday as a time to recharge and reconnect as a family. Generally, when we have time away, we are more fun, more relaxed and often more emotionally available to our children. We are able to connect on different levels without the distraction of work and life at home. Children just want us to spend time with them and notice the things they do. It really is that simple. Being on holiday gives us the perfect opportunity to do this. Finally, here are my two biggest tips for holidaying with children. The first is, if in doubt, go outside. Being in nature has been scientifically proven to have a soothing effect on our nervous system, so if your child is dysregulated because of travelling, get them outdoors. Seeing vast landscapes or bodies of blue water can calm an overstimulated brain and can help reset our sleep patterns. This is great for tackling jet-lag after long-haul flights. If you’re staying closer to home, then geocaching or completing a treasure hunt with the brilliant Treasure Trails company is a fantastic way to explore the outdoors. They have trails all over the country, suitable for all ages and as a bonus, they develop communication and problemsolving skills.

My second tip for little travellers is blue masking tape. Use it to play noughts and crosses on the tray table, turn it into a race track for cars or unicorns, tape up muslin cloths and blankets to make a fort in the car or use it to play hopscotch when waiting at the airport. Trust me; it’s the best £3.50 you will spend!

AT THE WHEEL

Super charger

Tesla was founded in 2003 by two engineers, Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning. After seeing the success of General Motors’ EV1 - GM’s first fully electric vehicle - they recognised that there was a captive market for an electric car. They named the company after Nikola Tesla and his groundbreaking electrical engineering work.

The now familiar face of Tesla, Elon Musk, joined as the company’s largest shareholder in 2004.

In 2006, Tesla unveiled the prototype for the Roadster, which went into production in 2008.

The Roadster was based on the Lotus Elise and was priced at $110,000 - not cheap for a new car from a start-up company. The car had a 250-mile range which was impressive, even by today’s standards.

In 2008, they announced they would be introducing the Model S. When this car was introduced in 2012, production of the Roadster ended.

Tesla also started rolling out the Supercharger network, initially with a very modest six Superchargers in California. They now have over 6,500 Supercharger stations and over 58,000 charging points all over the world.

When I drove the Model S for the first time back in 2013, it was a real eye-opener; I was expecting it to drive like an electric milk float, however, I discovered that it was unbelievably quick and the central infotainment screen was very advanced for the time.

In 2013, the main competition came from the Nissan Leaf or the Toyota Prius. Fast forward

ten years and nearly every manufacturer has an electric car in their range. This brings me nicely on to the car I drove, courtesy of Tesla Silverlink. I drove the Model Y, which was originally launched in 2021. This car is based on the Model 3 and looks like a mini-SUV. Model Y has quite a sporty look compared to the 3.

There are three models to choose from: the base model which is a rear-wheel-drive car, the range-extender, and the performance model.

The entry model has a claimed range of 280 miles, the range-extender should achieve 350 miles, and the performance can reach 320 miles. The performance model has a top speed of 155mph and gets to 60mph in a very impressive 3.5 seconds - this car will beat most boy racers away from the traffic lights!

The car I drove was fitted with 19” alloys, which is good for the car’s range, but they don’t look very impressive and I’d personally opt for the 21” turbine alloys which look the business but will impact the range.

a Tesla, you use what looks like a credit card to open the car by touching the driver’s side door pillar. The card needs to be close to the central armrest to start the car.

When you get inside the car it’s very minimalist with no buttons or switches anywhere. Surprisingly, the car has two storks and a conventional steering wheel; one of the storks is for the indicators and the wipers and the other one is for the gearbox. Everything else is controlled via a 15” screen which looks like a huge iPad. From controlling the speed of the wipers to opening the glove box, it’s all done from the infotainment screen. Even the speedometer isn’t in its usual place - it’s in the top right-hand corner of the screen, which annoyingly means you must take your eyes off the road to see what speed you are going. There’s plenty of head and legroom for the driver and passengers along with plenty of storage. The rear boot is massive and there’s also a small boot at the front.

The car doesn’t have Apple or Android Auto, which is something that didn’t bother me but I’m sure it would be frustrating for other drivers. When the car is stationary, you can watch YouTube or Netflix and there are arcade games for you to play as well. There is also Spotify and a full list of DAB radio stations. My favourite bit about this was a little icon that looked like a magician’s box; I know this is totally childish, but you can press a button and the car makes a farting noise along with loads of other preset noises. As I was sitting in the car, I’d press the button and unsuspecting passersby would look around trying to figure out where the noise was coming from, which provided me with hours of fun!

Tesla is well known for its autonomous self-driving technology, but taking your hands off the wheel and letting the car drive itself just doesn’t feel right for me. That said, the car’s cameras always monitor the traffic and pedestrians around you, and another safety feature records the drive itself. If you were to have an accident and it wasn’t your fault, you can prove your innocence to the insurers with the footage that’s recorded.

As you’d expect, the car has a 5-star NCAP rating and it’s a very safe place to be if you are unfortunately involved in a crash.

All Model Ys come with a 4-year 50,000-mile warranty and the batteries and motors have an 8-year warranty to give you complete peace of mind.

With the tax benefits as well as the brilliant range of charging networks, it’s no wonder that electric cars are no longer a rare sight on our roads.

LUXE LOVES

Watch out Aviation is at the heart of the Bremont brand, and in line with that, the Fury has been designed as a contemporary take on the classic pilot’s watch. A bold, British design. Fury, H1 Generation, £5,995 bremont.com

A WATCHFUL EYE

with Josh Sims

Our columnist and watch expert, Josh Sims, chats to an expert on all things British watchmaking

British watches

“Just look at that watch,” enthuses Nicholas Scargill-Bowman of Alliance 01 jumping hour, a model launched last year and made in partnership between Fears, the watch brand he founded, and fellow British watch company Christopher Ward, for the Alliance of British Watch and Clockmakers. This young organisation, launched three years ago, has so far brought together some 73 brands with the aim of promoting the nation’s watch and clock making around the world.

“That watch is just weird, in a good way,” he adds.

“Its design is playful but stops short of being outrageous. And I think that’s a quality specific to British design. There’s an understatement to it, with very classic proportions, but also with an irreverence.”

Scargill-Bowman concedes that to ascribe a specific design ethos to a nation is to stereotype. It puts the aesthetic of British designed watches - sometimes also part-made and, much less often, more or less entirely made in the UK - into the realm of the Mini Cooper or the Jaguar E-Type, the Spitfire or Concorde, the Burberry trenchcoat, Dr. Marten’s boot or the Anglepoise lamp. It’s a disparate bunch of icons but

maybe there is something in the idea that a certain sensibility lies behind them all, as might be behind the more sensuous, more pop classics of, say, Italian design.

“It’s hard to define but I think there’s a real creative drive [to British watchmaking now], an approach that says, for example, ‘here’s a new material, what can we do with it?’ rather than ‘what does the marketing department say we should be making now?’,” suggests the watchmaker Fiona Kruger. “Watchmaking often falls back on established ideas of how watches should be designed. I think British watchmaking leans towards designing watches that don’t already exist.”

“The British aesthetic is definitely a big part of what we do,” argues Roger Smith, often considered the world’s greatest living watchmaker - every component of his watches, of which only 18 are made a year, is hand-made in-house. “There’s a 3D depth to the designs, and a relative simplicity to the decoration of the movements, that echoes the historical past of watchmaking in the UK that I couldn’t see elsewhere in watches and which has become a signature. I think as a nation we’re great creators and like to do things differently. And that’s to the advantage in watch design now. British watchmaking in the broadest sense is very

much on the up. The challenge of course is to take it to the next level.”

Certainly the last decade has seen a transformation in the development of a watch industry in the UK. It’s in revival mode. Some are offering a kind of radical classical style - from Dent, with its nods to London’s landmark Big Ben, for which it also created the dial; others something more bold and fresh - from the retro sportiness of Farer to the outlandish colour palette of Studio Underdog; others - like Vertex - nod back to historic forebears. Being British-made was, says Dave Brailsford, of clockmakers turned watchmakers Garrick, the brand’s raison d’être from day one. And that, he says, has actually proven a profitable decision, such that three-quarters of its watches are sold abroad. “Britishness just has a distinct appeal to some markets, and in Asia in particular,” he argues. “I think the instability of the pandemic period - when getting hold of a lot of Swiss watches was very hardhas encouraged collectors to be more open-minded, to look to other markets the likes of the British one.”

The likes of Garrick, with its in-house caliber and artful finishing, are perhaps a reminder that, if you go back far enough, Britain was once a world leader in horology. Although the historical record isn’t always precise, 17th century English scientist Robert Hooke lays claim to having invented the balance spring; Daniel Quare created the first repeating watch movement in 1680; in 1730 John Harrison invented the marine chronometer and in 1755 Thomas Mudge came up with the lever escapement - an integral part of mechanical watchmaking still. The invention of the chronometer in the 18th century is attributed to Thomas Young and the self-winding mechanism to John Harwood in 1923, even if it was first taken to market by Fortis and Blancpain. In 1974 George Daniels - to whom Roger Smith was apprentice - created the co-axial escapement, latterly popularised by Omega. Smith has made his own advances on that.

“There’s definitely a watch enthusiast that appreciates that Britain was once world leading in watchmaking, that many of its innovators, in mechanisms as in the designs too, were British. I mean, even Rolex started out here,” notes Paul Pinchbeck, director of British makers Harold Pinchbeck, which can trace its roots back to another innovator, Christopher Pinchbeck, the early 18th century clockmaker and inventor of his eponymous alloy, a cheap substitute for gold. “A lot of manufacturing here became diluted through the latter half of the 20th century, not just watchmaking, and I do think something [ineffable] is lost by using components from abroad, even if there’s nothing wrong with the results as such”.

Indeed, by the late 1800s British makers were exporting 200,000 watches a year and, arguably, that number would would have continued to grow to rival the Swiss industry were it not for World Wars One and Two: while Switzerland’s neutrality meant it was able to continue developing and manufacturing wristwatches (and selling them to both sides), in both instances British industry had to pivot to making

armaments and military equipment, including watches but ignoring the civilian market. While some makers persisted until the 1970s - most notably Smiths, whose vintage military pieces are especially collectible - most fell by the wayside.

But perhaps there is a renewed enthusiasm for bringing watchmaking home again.

Harold Pinchbeck, for example, currently uses a Swiss movement for its watches but plans to use an English one. Struthersthe company founded by husband-and-wife team Craig and Rebecca Struthers, both antique watch restorers - is now developing its own in-house movement. Bremont, with the exception of some components, the hands particularly, makes its watches in-house at a 35,000 sq ft manufacturing centre it opened in 2020, last year taking on a US$59m investment for expansion. Deep pockets help, of course. But money isn’t the only challenge. There’s finding the right technical skills.

“The issue with watchmaking is that it seems the tolerances required are alien to everyone outside of watchmaking, and that means sometimes [if you don’t want to have your watches made abroad] you have to learn to do these things yourself,” explains Lewis Heath, founder of AnOrdain watches, which stand out for their in-house enamelled dials, for which there’s currently a healthy five year order book.

But none of this is to say that manufacturing in the UK isn’t possible without either the exceptional situation of a Roger Smith or the scale achieved by the likes of a Bremont. Take the Loomes Original, or the Robin, for example, both models from British watchmakers and restorers Loomes, both made entirely in the UK largely from components supplied by companies new to watches. Achieving this was a seven year-long project but, stresses Loomes’ Robert Loomes - who is also chairman of the British Horological Institute - it can be done. Indeed, Bedford Dials - normally a maker of pressure, temperature and automotive dials, and one of the companies he has worked with - has since started making dials for several Swiss watch companies.

“The fact is that there are specialist firms here who can make, say, jewels, or a hairspring, if you ask them to. It’s just the scale of the venture that puts other watchmakers off I think, and the expense,” says Loomes, who reckons using British suppliers resulted in his watches being perhaps eight times more expensive than they otherwise could have been, an expense that would of course be greatly reduced if manufacturing in larger volumes.

“It took forever to find a company that could make screws and in the end we used a specialist medical equipment supplier, which made each screw insanely expensive, about £8, when we could have maybe bought a bag of thousands from China for that,” Loomes chuckles.

“And, yes, there were companies that wouldn’t just make 50 components for me. But then there were others who didn’t take on the work for the money, but because they found it interesting. It was a big and complex project. But I think we proved our point.”

Driving force

Landing home after graduating from the University of Central Florida on a golf scholarship, Luxe

checks in with Jess Baker, 2022 British Amateur Champion…

Jess Baker has been playing golf for as long as she can remember, and thanks her grandma for introducing her to the sport at such a young age.

Since then, she has played for her country, travelled the world with the Ladies Professional Golf Association, and took the title for British Amateur Champion in 2022. She has recently made the trip back over the pond after graduating from the University of Central Florida, where she secured a golf scholarship. Settling at home in Great Park, and back playing at her beloved Northumberland Golf Club, Jess has her sights set on Ladies European Golf.

I’ve recently graduated from the University of Central Florida in the US…

I was on a golf scholarship out there for four years, so I’ve actually just moved back home and I’m now working through unpacking my whole life. It was quite an intense journey with seven suitcases between three of us, but it’s great to be back and I’m excited to start a new chapter of amateur golf this summer, and professional golf in the future. During my time in Florida, I got a degree in psychology, and also played on the golf team. Essentially, you do the same work as everyone else as a student, and then you also get the athletics side of it where you train as a team during the week. It would be golf in the morning, school in the afternoon. And between that, we’d be travelling every couple of weeks to play tournaments.

It was definitely an experience living out there. I actually moved over in August 2020, so right in the midst of COVID. In Florida they were quite easy on the rules, so the lockdowns weren’t too tricky, but being an athlete, we had our own rules and bubbles away from the student environment, which made it really tricky to make friends

and socialise. That first freshman year was really tough for me. Settling into a new environment in general, but also doing it during a pandemic, it was definitely a learning experience. I’ve grown so much as a person, and even though it was challenging at times, I would never take it back.

I started playing golf when I was 11… I’m 21 now, so it’s been 10 years. It was very much a family thing. My grandma played and got my dad and brother into it. There are videos of me when I was very little on the driving range, but I was never serious about it until I was 11.

I played up at Northumberland Golf Club and have been there since I started. I played with the juniors and actually got an honorary membership there last year, so I’m very grateful to the club for always sticking by me and supporting me. It’s been amazing to have that home support.

I then went on to play in the county juniors squad, and then county ladies, and then I started to get into the England set-up. They have a regional squad that gets together once a month for training. That was up at Matfen so that was really great for me - there was a group of us around the same age.

We all got quite close and supported each other in that sense. It was a really great environment to be in.

I did that for three or four years and then progressed into the national squad for the under 18s. Following that, I got my England caps and my England Ladies Squad Selection. It has always been quite centred around the North East, which is really nice.

I’ve spent most summers travelling and playing…

Which I will always be grateful for. I had some great results when I was 17. I had one day where I shot two rounds of 6-under in the final round. That showed to me what my potential was, and a huge confidence boost for me going into my scholarship in America. More recently, I won the British Amateur Championship which allowed me to play in all of the major events and play with the best in the world, which has been an amazing experience.

Last semester, I broke a conference record at the Big 12, which was a big deal, so it’s great to have those milestones to look back on. I’ve always been one to stick to the process. My coach Andy Paisley from Hexham Golf Club and I were just talking about the importance of those big moments, but also the daily stuff that contributes to that journey.

I was in my mid-teens when i knew golf was going to be a big part of my life… It was quite difficult, and there was a lot of juggling involved, because I was very musical. My grandma, who plays golf, also got us all into piano when we were young, and I played from being around five to 18-years-old. I always dedicated quite a lot of my time to music - I played piano and violin. When I was approaching GCSE and A-Level age, I had to make the decision to focus on one thing. That was the moment I decided I was going to give golf a go. Before that, I played a lot of sports inside and outside of school - like netball and hockey - so I was juggling a lot, and I think as a child you just go with it, but I got to the point where I really had to start prioritising. And golf felt like the most important thing to me.

Being a female in a man’s world has always acted as motivation for me… I was the only junior girl at my golf club, and it wasn’t really until I joined the England regional squad when I realised that there were other people who did it too. I’m very grateful to have had that, because it was very male dominated from a young age. Golf is so based on tradition, so there’s always a bit of a stigma - I suppose with women’s sport in general - but in golf it is highlighted because you’ve got the gender gaps. When you walk onto a golf course you’ve got tees specified for ladies and tees specified for men, so it is binary already. It’s hard playing as a young girl, knowing you can probably hit further than some of the boys, but you still have to play from a ladies tee.

It’s a bit of an odd one, but it always inspires me that little bit more. It gave me a lot of confidence actually looking back, showing that I’m able to do that. It brought me out of my shell a little bit.

Some people enter that environment thinking they’ll never be good enough, but I was lucky enough to learn and play in events with my brother, which meant it was never unusual for me.

A supportive community has always been key, particularly when you are growing up in sport…

When I was growing up, competition days

were always on a Thursday during the summer holidays, and I was always a little bit nervous about it, but the support was amazing and I was very welcomed by the golf club and the juniors section. They could see how motivated I was. There were some older girls who were members at the club at the time, and they were really inspiring for me.

And having my dad by my side has always been very special…

My dad has caddied for me when I’ve been playing in big events. It’s so lovely. My dad has been so pivotal in me progressing in golf. There have been a number of times where I’ve said, ‘I’m just not good enough!’ and he has supported me and encouraged me to keep going. In the most supportive way possible, never in a nagging way. I’ve seen a lot of parents who are very pushy and it is hard to watch sometimes, but my parents have always been amazing and understanding, supporting me to be happy and do what I want to do.

My dad was on the bag when I won that event, and so when I was starting these LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) events in some amazing places across the world, having my dad there sort of gave me that comfort blanket and allowed me to enjoy it and appreciate the moment. We’ve made some amazing and very rare memories, which wouldn’t have been able to happen without golf.

Travelling and seeing the world is a big part of it all for me…

Last year was an especially memorable year for travelling. It’s impossible to turn down these events, and I never, ever regret them. There was a time last year when I went straight from San Francisco to Finland to play in a different event - with an eight or nine hour time difference - but you’ve got to just keep going and enjoy the moment. It’s so worth it. I would never change it for the world.

I got exemptions into all of the majors last year. I played in Switzerland, we then went to Muirfield in Scotland for the AIG Women’s Open - that was a big one because that was the professional version of the event that I won. It was on a links course and not far from home, so I had lots of family and Northumberland supporters there, which was great. We went to Canada after that, and then in summer last year, we did Pebble Beach for the US Open which was incredible. It’s been crazy but so amazing.

My plans for the near future are… I’ll be doing the same amateur schedule that I’ve done in the past. I’m staying amateur for the purpose of getting into the qualifying school to get into the Ladies European Tour, which is in December in Morocco. Depending on how I finish in that event determines my schedule and tour status next year in the LET (Ladies European Tour). The better I do, the better status I will get, so I’m staying amateur until then, with the view of going pro after that.

When I’m not on the golf course… I like to head to the beach with our family dog - he is getting quite old now, but he can still manage a walk. Honestly, I play quite a lot of golf and like to travel around the region with it when I can. There are some fabulous courses in Northumberland and surrounding areas. In America it was so intense all of the time, so I’m learning to balance work and downtime now I’m back home. I’ve got lots of school friends who are still around here, so it’s going to be nice to catch up with them and just settle back home for a little while.

EXTRA TIME

with Pete Graves

Our Luxe sports columnist and Sky Sports presenter, Pete Graves, talks star-studded sporting fixtures, sun-soaked holidays and a summer of sensational sport…

LIVING LUXE >> June was a really busy month, but with some nice bits of downtime too. I went to Seaham Hall with my wife - it was really lovely to sit by the pool and read Luxe magazine. Steph had a massage and I actually just went to sleep on one of the waterbeds - it was brilliant! We stayed over too which was an extra special treat - the suite was sensational and the food was excellent too.

I was a special guest at the Champions League final, where I met all sorts of celebrities in the lounge. Everyone from Jose Mourinio and Zinedine Zidane, to Noel Gallagher and Salt Bae - plus various different musicians and actors and people from the world of sport. Real Madrid won for a record 14th time. The atmosphere was incredible, as expected.

We’ve got a family weekend away planned in the Lakes - a big occasion with our lot and my mum and dad, plus my sister and her family from Northern Ireland, and my brother and his family from Italy. I’m really looking forward to that - every few years we make the effort to book a big house and get together as a family. Then we’re off to Disneyland in Florida for three weeks. We’re staying at one of the Universal hotels - we’ll be doing all of the parks with the kids, swimming with dolphins, waterparks - it’s my wife’s birthday while we’re out there as well, so we’ve got a hot air balloon booked for that. The kids are absolutely buzzing about it, of course! Our final summer getaway is a trip to Spain in August - we’re going to stay with some family and have an extra bit of chill after the rush of the Florida trip. And our final

summer treat is a family trip to see the 101 Dalmatians at the Theatre Royal.

WORKING LIFE >>

The transfer window is going to be big news again this summer, and will be a main focus once the Euros is done and dusted. After a busy summer juggling work, family time and lots of exciting live sport, I’ll be live on air at Sky Sports covering the transfers and preparations for the season ahead. I’ll also be doing transfer talk podcasts, and hopefully there will be plenty to talk about this time around. It’s looking like it will be a busy one.

THE WORLD OF SPORTS >>

At time of writing, we’re preparing for the Euros, which is really exciting. England are one of the favourites for the tournament. Scotland are in the Euros this time too, of course. They’ve never got out of the group in a major tournament, so I’m secretly wanting the Scots to do wellit will be great to see them progress out of the group stage, although they’ve got some very tough games to get through. After our summer holidays, I’ll be back at work just in time for the start of the Premier League season, which will be back underway in August.

Ask Pete >>

Q: What are your thoughts and predictions on Newcastle United’s 2024/2025 season?

A: Newcastle missed out on a Europa Conference League place last season, and although it’s disappointing to say there will be no European football, I think it could actually become a really positive thing for Eddie Howe and the team. It means that they’ll not have to play as many games, the main focus will be on the Premier League and the cups. If they add a few players this summer, which I expect them to do, I could easily see them having a good challenge for a top four finish, and hopefully qualifying for the Champions League for the following season 2025/2026. Newcastle had a terrible time with injuries last season and still managed to finish seventh, so if they can have a bit of luck and keep all of the squad fit, and add two or three quality additions to the team, then I really am expecting a good campaign. Winning a trophy would also be an extra bonus!

Got a question you’d like to ask Pete for the next issue? Send us a DM @luxe_mag!

Boheme

Light & shade

Sunglasses and hats to style out sunny season

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luxe:looks

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

Oasis Community Housing’s Black & Gold Ball, Hilton Newcastle Gateshead

NETWork Notwork Stockton Launch, Stockton Globe

The Ladies Collective Spring Reset at 3Sixty, Newcastle

The Executive Group visit and networking event to Beamish Museum

Sachins 40th Birthday, Newcastle

Hooker & Young Wynyard 20th Anniversary

Fundraising for culture: Fenwick Newcastle x TWAM Fundraising Event

future generations to enjoy.

A wonderful group of North East businesses and business people, once again, came together for a fantastic fundraising event raising over £50,000 for local museums.

The special event was hosted by Fenwick Newcastle to raise funds for Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums’ programmes for communities.

The fundraising event at Arthur’s Music & Dining Club brought businesses together to network and enjoy lunch and entertainment, whilst raising vital funds to support work at Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums’ learning and community programmes.

The museums and galleries attract around 1 million visits a year and share the stories of the North East region’s past and present.

They engage over 150,000 children and young people via education programmes and care for 1.1million objects, artefacts and artworks preserving them for

They also deliver targeted wellbeing programmes for some of the most disadvantaged communities in the region including people who are homeless living with mental health problems, or in poverty and people recovering from addiction.

Keith Merrin, Director of Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums, said:

“We’re incredibly grateful to the businesses who attended the event and generously supported our learning and community programmes.

“£50,000 is a significant amount of money and will help us to continue to deliver programmes that ensure that everyone can engage with art, culture and heritage. We’re especially grateful to our Trustee, Helen Cadzow who organised the event and the businesses that sponsored the event - Fenwick, Everything Managed Group, SPS Microgrids, Allies Group, Luxe Magazine, Hypernorth, Rolton Group and Parkdean Resorts.”