A Bigger, Better, Brighter Read - LIVING WITHIN 2/lw-kt-jan-2016.pdf · Vietnam’ – a fantastic...

Vol. 11 Issue 5 January 2016 www.livingwithin.com

LIVING

IN A Bigger, Better, Brighter Read

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Greenstar Travel“What a wonderful world”

www.greenstartravel.co.ukGreenstar Travel. 23 The Parade, Claygate KT10 0PD

Telephone 01372 462226

Our world is an amazingly beautiful place, but with all of it’s troubles it seems as though there are fewer and fewer places that we would happily put on our wish list to visit at the moment. Let us at Greenstar Travel give you a few ideas of where we’re sending our discerning travellers in the coming months.

Italy, Costa Rica, Peru and South Africa are just some of the destinations tipped to make an impact on the holiday market for British Travellers in 2016.

Big movie launches, new direct fl ight routes from the UK, favourable exchange rates, state-of-the-art hotel openings and world leading attractions are some of the factors which will infl uence our travel habits in the year ahead.

Italy will be on the map thanks to the new Ben Hur fi lm starring M o r g a n F r e e m a n which is being shot in Rome and Matera in Basilicata, southern Italy. Matera will be the European City if Culture in 2019 and

here we have introduced the amazingly romantic Hotel Sant’Angelo for next year, offering a unique cave dwelling experience.

Vietnam has been one of the rising stars in the long haul market for the last 3 years and even more so since Vietnam airlines became the fi rst carrier to fl y a B787 – 9 Dreamliner from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Heathrow this year. In spring 2016 the service will go up for four times a week to daily, suggesting that UK holidaymakers visiting Vietnam will grow even further.

A new direct scheduled service on British Airways from May 2016 will make it easier to enjoy vida pura, the unoffi cial motto of Costa Rica. With a vast array of exciting tour itineraries making the most of the volcanos, rain forests and beaches it’s never been a better time to visit this beautiful country. British visitors to Costa Rica went up by almost 13% in 2015 and this growth looks set to continue as BA’s route makes this destination more accessible.

In Mauritius, Shangri-la’s Le Tousserok Resort & Spa set the pace in luxury when it reopened on November 1 after major renovation, while the battle between theme parks in Orlando will heat up in 2016 with Epcot and Universal Studios going head-to-head with new rides based on two of the most successful fi lms ever – Frozen Ever After which is a dark ride based on the Disney fi lm that opens in 2016 in the Norweigian Pavilion at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort, replacing Maelstrom. At Universal’s Island of Adventure the Skull Island: Reign of Kong ride will also open next summer for an experience that the company describes as ‘massive in every way’.

Other destinations tipped

for success include South Africa (thanks to an exchange rate of 20 rand to the pound and England’s cricketers two-month tour); Antigua, which is a good alternative to Barbados due to a greater offering of good value four star hotels; Greece with new easyjet fl ights to Kalamata making the Costa Navarino resort more accessible; Peru with the launch of British Airways’ direct fl ight to Lima from May 2016 and Japan, which produces one of the biggest surprises in the history of sport at this year’s Rugby World Cup by beating South Africa in the opening round!

We cannot fi nish without mentioning river and ocean cruising, our biggest seller at the moment. The rivers of Europe weave their way across the continent, connecting countries, cultures and traditions. There’s no fi ner way to unearth the diversity of the regions they pass through than on a 5* river cruise boat. Ocean cruise bookings are also up. How else can you visit numerous destinations in one holiday and only unpack once. We have our very own cruise expert so whatever harbour you dream of sailing into we can help you out.

So, our world is still a very large, diverse and wonderful place to explore. We are here to help you plan your dream trip every step of the way. Wherever it is you want to be, we can send

you there. Call in to see one of our travel experts today.

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“Their favourite places”

Your Greenstar Travel Team

LIVING WITHIN January 20162

www.greenstartravel.co.ukGreenstar Travel. 23 The Parade, Claygate KT10 0PD Telephone 01372 462226

Greenstar Travel and Kuoni have been working successfully together for a number of years selling amazing holidays to some of the world’s most exotic and exciting destinations.

Established in 1906, everyone knows the Kuoni brand well and with over 170 awards under our belt we are becoming more successful every year.

New horizons, new experiences. Sights that take your breath away and surroundings that make you want to stay forever. Holidays should leave memories that linger for all the right reasons and we’ve strived for this every step of the way.

Top places to visit in 2016 are Indochina, one of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas of Asia. It’s a region of paddy

fi elds, ancient monuments, mountainous jungle, stunning coasts and vibrant cities.

Kuoni offer a range of tours including the ‘Highlights of Vietnam’ – a fantastic introductory tour covering the main attractions – a historical and once turbulent land. Discover captivating cities, intriguing cultures and stunning natural beauty while enjoying views from the seat of a traditional cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle), a cruise boat sailing along Halong Bay and more usual methods of transport. You can extend your trip and take in the slower pace of Vietnam at one of the stunning beach resorts for a few days after the tour.

Other tours on offer take in the amazing areas of Cambodia with the beautiful temple complexes of Angkor Wat a World Heritage site and the city of Phnom Penh famous for it’s solid gold Buddha. Not forgetting Laos and the beautiful city

of Luang Prabang, a charming UNESCO-listed city. Explore the stunning 16th century temple of Vat Xieng Thong, the formers King’s palace and climb Phousy Hill to watch the sunset over the Mekong River. Talking of the Mekong, there is also a number of stunning river cruises available along this most beautiful waterway!

Another hot spot for 2016 is South Africa, hardly surprising with the exchange rate being so good!

Best known for the Safaris, Capetown and the famous Garden Route which is always popular but there is so much more and holidays are all about experiences so how about canoeing with the penguins at Boulders Beach, getting up close and personal with whales and dolphins on a boat based trip, abseiling off table mountain or having a day on a wine tasting tour in one the world’s largest wine producing areas. The choices are endless and all such good value for money at the moment. You can eat out at fantastic restaurants at a fraction of the cost of what you would pay here.

Up and coming hot spots for 2016 closer to home include Croatia, Greece and Italy. Kuoni have some beautiful hotels in their new Mediterranean brochure including some fantastic coastal voyages on small motor boats.

We think your perfect holiday starts with a conversation. The team at Greenstar Travel invite you to call in and tell them what you love about travel, what your dreams are, what you love to do when you’re away. Weather it’s lazing on a sun drenched beach, visiting world heritage sites that have the WOW factor, getting ‘in with the locals’, sharing the sunrise with the big 5 or an epic cruise adventure in the Galapagos.

Greenstar can turn your dreams into reality and ‘fi nd your amazing’.

Call into their offi ce on The Parade in Claygate for a chat and pick up one of Kuoni’s latest brochures – the choices are endless.

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January 2016 LIVING WITHIN 3

Peter Roberts MNAEA MARLA

[email protected]@matthewpierce.co.uk

Telephone: 01372 463100

5 & 6 High Street, Claygate

Matthew Kallenberg-PierceFNAEA MARLA

Thinking of selling, buying, renting or letting?Talk to the people with the knowledge.

Puppy reunited with family for Christmas following Claygate burglary

Claremont Fan Court SchoolAn independent co-educational school for pupils aged 2½ to 18 years

www.claremont-school.co.uk

Open Mornings

For further information, tel 01372 473624 or email [email protected]

Whole School - 10.00am-12.30pm Introductory talk at 10.00am

Saturday 6 FebruarySaturday 12 March

A dog was reunited with its family after being stolen following a burglary at a house in Claygate on Saturday 19 December.

Maximus, a 22-week-old Cocker Spaniel puppy, was stolen after thieves broke into the address in Red Lane sometime between 11.15am and 1.35pm. The thieves also stole two iPads and a selection of costume jewellery from the house after smashing the kitchen window to gain access.

Offi cers carried out extensive enquiries following the incident, including in the Guildford area.

The following morning, an employee at Treetop Kennels in Guildford contacted the owners to say that a dog matching Maximus’ description had been brought in after being found around 9.00pm the night before in Aldershot Road, Guildford. His identity was later confi rmed by his microchip.

A 21-year-old woman from Worplesdon and a 23-year-old man from Horley have been arrested in connection with the burglary and are on bail, pending further enquiries, to return on 6 February.

Sandra Dowling, the dog’s owner, said: “Words cannot describe the feeling of seeing, then holding and then hugging Maximus when we were reunited with him at Treetops Kennels. We are all over the moon now he is home, safe and asleep. He has eaten and has had lots of hugs.

“We are indebted to Surrey Police, who are just brilliant, effective and thorough investigators. They dealt with our family with sensitivity and encouragement and worked tirelessly and quickly.

“I would also like to thank all the people on social media for their support, encouragement, time and effort, which has moved me signifi cantly.”

Detective Constable Dave Atkinson, who is investigating the burglary, said: “Being burgled has a devastating impact on any victim and on this occasion, the family has also had to endure their puppy being stolen. Possessions such as iPads are replaceable; a puppy is not. Our main concern

from the beginning was the return of the dog and a huge amount of effort went into fi nding him.

“We believe the pressure from the initial enquiries we made after the burglary, coupled with the extensive coverage of the incident on social media, led to the thieves dumping the dog which in turn led to him being taken to the kennels and being reunited with his family.

“From these enquiries, we also managed to identify the vehicle believed to have been involved in the incident. This led to the arrest of two of the suspects, although we believe more were involved and enquiries remain ongoing to identify them and track them down.”

DC Atkinson added: “We are determined that all who were involved in this heartless and despicable crime are brought to justice and our investigation will remain ongoing until we have succeeded.”

If you have any other information which could assist with the investigation, please contact

Surrey Police on 101, quoting crime reference 45150114466

Surrey Police are appealing for witnesses after a reported robbery in a car park in Esher in the afternoon of Sunday 13 December.

At around 4.05pm, the victim, a woman in her 40s, was sitting in her car in the Highwayman’s Cottage Car Park just off the Portsmouth Road, when a man smashed the passenger side window of her black Volkswagen Polo and made off with her handbag.

She described the suspect as a black man potentially in his 20s, of medium build and clean shaven. He was believed to be wearing a grey hooded top with cream drawstrings with the hood

up over his head, gloves and dark trainers.Investigating Offi cer, PC Mike Swankie, said:

"This was a nasty incident and a frightening ordeal for the victim who was left shaken and very distressed.

“If you witnessed the incident or noticed anybody acting suspiciously in the area at the time of the incident please get in touch with us."

Anyone with any information should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference 45150112658, or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Driver reports smash and grab in Esher


Witness appeal following indecent

offence in Weybridge

LIVING WITHIN01276 858750

[email protected] Fairoaks • Chobham • Surrey GU24 8HU

A police investigation has been launched after a man indecently exposed himself to a teenage girl in Weybridge.

The incident took place at around 5.15pm on Monday 14 December. The 19-year-old victim was walking along a footpath in the wooded area between Brooklands College and the Hand and Spear public house near the railway station.

The suspect is described as being white, 5ft 10", of a slim build and wearing a black hooded top and dark blue jeans.

Detective Constable Melanie Warnes, who is investigating the incident, said: "The victim was understandably extremely traumatised by the incident and I would appeal to anyone who may have seen someone acting suspiciously in the vicinity of the incident to contact offi cers with details – any information could prove vital to the investigation."

If you can help, contact Surrey Police on 101, quoting crime reference 45150112935.

Traffi c was brought to a standstill on the A3 from the M25 to Esher just days before Christmas when three vehicles were involved in a road traffi c collision on the northbound carriageway.

The collision was reported to have happened at around 7.40pm on Monday 21 December.

Two men were rushed to St George's Hospital in Tooting with serious injuries following the collision on the northbound carriageway.

Another man was taken to St Peter's Hospital in Chertsey.

A driver caught up in traffi c, who witnessed the crash aftermath, told Living Within: "It took an hour to start moving. When I passed the accident it looked really bad."

Days earlier, two cars, two horses, a van and a motorcycle were involved in the collision on the southbound carriageway

In the accident in the early hours of Wednesday 16 December, four people were taken to St George's for treatment to "serious injuries". One woman suffered life-threatening injuries. The horses died at the scene.

Serious accidents on A3 near Esher

@SurreyRoadCops

Roofer who conned Surrey’s elderly ordered to pay thousand of pounds backA serial rogue trader serving a three-year jail sentence for fl eecing elderly customers has been ordered to repay his victims in full.

James Saunders (51) charged extortionate sums for shoddy repairs to roofs and drains and used the proceeds to fund a lavish lifestyle which included luxury cars, holidays and designer clothes.

Victims included an 89-year-old war veteran who was cheated out of more than £42,000 making him overdrawn for the fi rst time in his life.

Saunders was jailed in June after admitting running a fraudulent business over a six-year period while his former wife Rachel Roberts was given a 21-month jail sentence for laundering the proceeds of crime and stealing two BMWs.

The sentences followed an investigation by Surrey County Council’s trading standards offi cers.

Both Saunders and Roberts returned to Guildford Crown Court in December for a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing to recover money conned from victims.

The court heard that the total value of criminal benefi t to Saunders was £690,000 while Roberts benefi ted to the tune of £660,000. Some £505,000 was considered to have been jointly obtained.

After hearing that Saunders and Roberts held £246,000 in assets between them, including equity in the marital home, the judge made a confi scation order demanding they repay it.

Of that sum, £114,000 will be handed straight to victims to cover not only the overpayments made but also the cost of putting right the shoddy work carried out by Saunders.

Nine customers had been overcharged for substandard work while a tenth was quoted a reasonable price but had to pay another trader to rectify mistakes by Saunders.

Saunders was given a March deadline to hand over

his share of assets or face a further eight months in jail and still owe the sum.

Roberts, who is the named owner of the marital home, must pay by the same date or face a further 27 months in jail, while still owing the money.

Richard Walsh, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Localities and Community Wellbeing, said: "Saunders lined his pockets at the expense of elderly customers he cruelly conned and now he’s going to pay for those crimes.

"I’m pleased that people who were scammed by this serial rogue trader will be given every penny back thanks to thorough and dogged investigations by our trading standards team."

Saunders, who traded under names such as ‘Roofcare Property Maintenance’, ‘Drain Care’ and ‘The Roofi ng Company’, would begin by quoting a reasonable price for repairs but once work had started, would quickly claim further work was needed at signifi cant extra cost.

Tactics used to obtain payments from victims included accompanying or driving them to the bank to withdraw funds and standing over them while they made transfers by internet banking.

Claygate Recreation Ground Trust and the Trustees are hoping that volunteers both young and old will go and join them on the Recreation Ground on Sunday 7 February at 10.00am to help clear the woodlands area (near the rear entrance to Claygate Primary School) of dead tree branches and other woodland waste matter. It is hoped that with enough volunteers to help, a large bonfi re can be made and the woodlands tidied up.

On the day we will be joined by members of the Lower Mole Project who will be providing their chainsaws and expertise.

Claygate Recreation Ground Trust continually looks to improve the grounds facilities and provide more enjoyment for those living in the area, and using the Recreation Ground. Each year a grant is provided to Claygate Recreation Ground Trust by Elmbridge Borough Council.

This grant is primarily used to maintain the grounds and provide the sporting facilities for Claygate Cricket and Football.

Claygate Recreation Ground Trust is also responsible for the management and maintenance of the woodland area, and as users of the woodland area will know, there is a substantial amount of work to be done in order to keep the woodlands in good condition. Unfortunately the Council grant does not cover the amount of work that needs to be carried out and so Claygate Recreation Ground Trust is looking for your help.

So, why don’t you and your family make a fun day of it in the woods, help Claygate Recreation Ground Trust clear the woodlands and build a huge bonfi re. They look forward to seeing you.

For further details and information contact Damian Ross on 01372 810118.

Call for volunteers to clear up Claygate’s woodland

Top of the Class

IF YOU Would like details to see how your SCHOOL CAN FEATURE IN LIVING WITHIN PLEASE TELEPHONE 01276 858750

E: [email protected]


For regular local news updates email [email protected]

It’s all about the best years of your life

Notre Dame School, Cobham 01932 869990

An inclusive Catholic foundation, educating girls for over 400 years

A Foundation of the Company of Mary Our Lady

It’s all about the girlswww.notredame.co.uk

Nursery to Sixth Form

One out of six pupils at Surrey primary schools did not meet the expected standard in reading, writing and maths in 2015, according to an offi cial breakdown of results in national tests for 11-year-olds.

Figures released by the Department for Education show that 17 per cent of pupils failed to reach ‘level four’ – the required standard for their age – in all three subjects. In 2014, 18 per cent did not meet the expected standard.

The fi gures were published alongside primary school performance tables, which give a school-

by-school breakdown of pupils’ results in national tests taken in spring and the progress they made.

Linda Kemeny, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Schools, Skills and Educational Achievement, said: "We want to unlock every child’s potential and ensuring they get the best possible education is at the core of this. We’ll continue doing all we can to raise education standards."

Nationally 80 per cent of pupils met the expected standard in the three subjects in 2015.

One in six primary school children in Surrey fail to make the three Rs grade

Have you ever thought about how it feels to not have a safe house and a comfy bed to go to when night-time comes? How would you keep warm? Where would you go, and what would you eat?

On Friday 26 February 2016 you will get a chance to experience how it feels like, having to spend the night sleeping out, when the Sleep Easy fundraising challenge returns to the Memorial Gardens in Kingston.

This will be the seventh year that YMCA London South West in partnership with the local churches invites people to "sleep rough so others don’t have to".

New this year is the option to choose between taking part in the ‘classic’ Sleep Easy event or to go for a new and tougher ‘extreme’ version where you will really get to feel how challenging a night of sleeping rough can be… Also added, is a third option of ‘Sleep Easy sofa surf’ for the children, where you can take part by organising a sleep over in your own home or at a friend’s house.

All three versions will be starting at 7.00pm and fi nishing with breakfast at 6.00am the next morning. Early bird entry fee until 10 January 2016 is only £10 for Sleep Easy Classic (£5 for 12-17 year olds), and £15 for the Sleep Easy Extreme (over 17s only). Sleep Easy Sofa Surf is free.

For this entry fee, participants in both the ‘classic’ and ‘extreme’ version get a Sleep Easy beanie hat, hot drinks, soup and breakfast.

Sarah Ward, Fundraising Offi cer at YMCA LSW, said: "Sleep Easy is a really enjoyable and challenging event, but also has a huge impact on people who are not as fortunate as those taking part."

Sleep Easy is a national YMCA fundraising initiative raising money to help change the lives of vulnerable homeless people across England. Since the event began in 2010, over £1million pounds have been raised by thousands of people who chose to sleep rough for one night.

Visit www.ymcalsw.org/sleep-easy for full details.

YMCA Sleep Easy returns to Kingston in February

As UK astronaut Tim Peake orbits the world in the International Space Station, Brooklands College has announced the launch of a brand new Space Engineering Course.

Many may think that a career in the space industry is something of science-fi ction or for the lucky few but it’s something that’s becoming more and more achievable. Following a global trend for growth, the UK space industry is increasing in value by around 7.5% per annum and currently contributes £11.3 billion to the UK economy. Not only that, but over 34,000 people are currently employed in the UK space sector.

To address the growing need for a workforce with the appropriate skills for the space industry, Brooklands College is teaming up with the National Space Academy to offer a unique opportunity for highly motivated, talented young students to join their Space Engineering course. The course, which

will be the only one of its kind in the South East, will be launching in September 2016. Students can expect to benefi t from master classes and talks from some of the UK’s leading space scientists, links with space employers such as Surrey Satellites as well as visits to the National Space Academy in Leicester.

Peter Avenell, Assistant Head of Engineering at the College said: "We’re very excited to be offering this brand new course which will open up some fantastic opportunities for our students and keeps our curriculum offering at the cutting edge of engineering."

Students completing the course could expect to go onto degrees in the sciences, mathematics or engineering disciplines and to employment in space and wider engineering industries.

To fi nd out more about this course visit www.brooklands.ac.uk/course-area/engineering or telephone 01932 797 797.

New Space Engineering Course to be launched at Brooklands College


CEL

EBRATING

10 YEARS OF SUCCE

SS

LIVING WITHIN

2005 - 2015

THE AREA's favourite SOURCE oF NEWS & VIEWs...

AND ALL THE BEST THINGS TO DO

Proud to have served the region for10 successful years

New research reveals the top 10 most common interview faux pas, which include showing off, not asking questions, dressing inappropriately and moaning about a current employer.

The LifeSkills study created by Barclays highlighted that UK candidates are often underprepared and may be overcompensating in other areas to impress.

When it comes to the mistakes most likely to cost a candidate their dream career, 12 per cent of employers said they found forgetting your manners to be the most off-putting behaviour. Meanwhile, candidates who acted interested and engaged during interviews were deemed to be the best (48 per cent), whilst those who appeared genuine about themselves were favoured more highly (37 per cent).

In the head-to-head group interview scenario, dominating the conversation and not listening to others ranked among the top errors, coming in at 44 and 48 per cent respectively. Being too quiet or not contributing enough was also prevalent with 45 per cent of employers often witnessing this in group interviews. In contrast, in the typical one-on-one interview setting only a small number (6 per cent) said that being too modest would dampen a prospective candidate’s chances.

Research from LifeSkills highlights that a quarter (25 per cent) of unemployed young people feel that they perform badly in interviews,

and almost two-thirds (64 per cent) think that they would benefit from job interview training.

Top 10 Most Common Interview Mistakes:

Failing to do their research

Showing off

Asking no questions

Not acting interested or engaged with the interviewer

Making up answers

Lying about achievements

Not dressing appropriately

Rambling on

Failing to explain what they will bring to the role

Moaning about their current employer

Kirstie Mackey, Head of LifeSkills, created by Barclays, said: "No matter how old or experienced you are, it’s invaluable to know how to properly prepare for and behave in interviews."

Barclays identifies Top 10 most common job interview mistakes

Top ten strangest spills to delay motorway journeys in EnglandFrom animal blood to argon, toilet roll to toxic waste, wine to washing up liquid - teams from Highways England have faced many mammoth challenges to clear up after motorway incidents.

The unexpected nature of motorway incidents means it can be hard to plan for what may happen on any given day. Over the past few years there have been numerous spills, ranging from the strange to the dangerous.

In every case, highways teams have worked quickly and under pressure to remove debris, clean the road, and fi x damage before safely reopening the carriageway to drivers.

To help drivers understand the challenges of safely clearing up after an incident, Highways England has compiled a list of the strangest spills on England’s motorways:

Raw human sewage

6,000 chickens

Hundreds of tins of baked beans

20 tonnes of Marmite

thousands of lager cans

10 tonnes of salmon

Melamine formaldehyde resin and phosphoric acid

Animal blood

Refrigerated liquid oxygen

Powdered cement

In some cases, thousands of items had to be picked up by hand after spreading across several lanes of the motorway.

Melanie Clarke, director of customer operations at Highways England, explained: "Our roads are among the safest in the world, and safety is our number one priority.

"Our role is to ensure we clear incidents quickly, and keep traffi c moving to minimise delays. We work closely with the emergency services, in challenging circumstances, to try to keep drivers moving after an incident.

"We know drivers get frustrated when their journeys are disrupted but we do all we can to clean the road quickly after an incident – and it’s often much more complicated than simply moving the vehicles off the road to reopen it. That’s why it can often take longer for us to safely reopen roads when a potentially dangerous substance is spilled in an incident.

"Our teams expect the unexpected, but of course, when you’re dealing with ten tonnes of salmon, dangerous toxic chemicals, or emulsion paint, the clean-up operation is somewhat complicated."

Despite having to deal with some unusual shed loads, everyday items actually pose the biggest challenges for Highways England’s clean-up teams.

Milk poses a similar problem: it rots the road, can stick to the surface and becomes very slippery in wet weather. All traces have to be cleaned off the road before it is safe to reopen.

It also poses problems for wildlife: if it gets into nearby watercourses, from drainage at the roadside, it can deprive the water of oxygen – essentially asphyxiating fi sh and other animals – so the Environment Agency has to get involved to ensure the spilled substance is properly removed and won’t pose a threat to people or animals. This can cause further delays to traffi c while investigations are underway.

As the stage curtains drew open, parents and family members were eager to see the wonderful nativity being performed by the Nursery and Reception classes.

The traditional story saw pupils act the parts of Mary, Joseph, the donkey and the Three Wise Men. There were also angels, dancers, stars, innkeepers and shepherds. The stage was also

fi lled with creatures as other pupils dressed up as camels, lambs, bunnies, mice and hens!

The pupils sang all the songs energetically with different groups of actors performing different lines of the songs. The Claremont Fan Court children put on a marvellous and professional show and looked wonderful in their dazzling costumes.

Adorable Nativity play at Claremont

After the Christmas announcement by the government to cut Kingston’s centrally fi nanced grant over the next four years, the Council has vowed to join forces with other affected councils to get government to overturn the tough grant settlement.

Councillors reacted with dismay to the settlement which exceeded their worst expectations and criticised the lack of consultation before announcing

these stringent cuts. Councillor Kevin Davis, the Leader of the Council

at the Royal Borough of Kingston said: "We were expecting a tough settlement but this is worse than we could have possibly expected. Kingston Council is not alone and I will be speaking to other leaders of London councils who have also been adversely affected, to lobby government for a fairer deal.”

Kingston set to become one of London’s lowest funded boroughs with latest government cuts


Elmbridge slips quietly out of

Halifax Quality of Life Top 50

Detectives are appealing to anyone who may have seen a valuable stolen bracelet, similar to the one in the above image, to contact police with information.

The piece, described as an 18ct white gold diamond tennis bracelet, was stolen from a property in St George’s Hill sometime between Sunday 29 November and Wednesday 2 December. Offenders gained access to the detached house and made off with the bracelet valued at around £40,000.

DC Kate Hyder investigating said: "This is an expensive item of jewellery with particularly large stones and I am sure that if it was offered for sale either online or at a store it would be recognisable. I am appealing for anyone who has any information as to its whereabouts to contact offi cers with details which may help police locate and bring the offenders to justice."

Anyone with information is asked to call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference 45150109287 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Thieves take valuable bracelet from property in St George’s Hill

Elmbridge has disappeared from the annual Halifax Quality of Life Survey.

In a statement issued to the press, Halifax (which is part of the Lloyds Banking Group) said there had been "a signifi cant shake-up" in the top 10. It said South Oxfordshire climbed 19 places to take second place, Mole Valley moved up 12 spots to seventh, and Guildford moved up to eighth place. No mention was made of Elmbridge, which fi nished in second place in 2014, and was previously named winner of the survey on four occasions.

The Quality of Life index aims to quantify where living standards are highest in the United Kingdom by ranking local performance across a range of indicators covering the labour market, the housing market, the environment, education, health and personal well-being. The index has been produced at a local authority district level for all 390 Local Authority Districts in the UK.

Hart, in north east Hampshire, topped the 2015 Halifax Quality of Life Survey for best places to live for the fi fth year in succession.

Quality of Life: Elmbridge has dropped out of the Top 10

Thu 4 - Sat 13 Feb

Wed 24 - Sun 28 Feb

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A decision expected last month on the proposed merger of Ashford & St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has been delayed, and is now expected this month.

In a press statement, the NHS Foundation Trusts said work is ongoing to refresh the full business case and long-term fi nancial plans for the merger, which are required for consideration at the Board meetings.

"Since these documents were fi rst drafted, the NHS as a whole has experienced considerable operational and fi nancial challenges, affecting both Trusts," the statement said.

"Due to this, the longer-term fi nancial models and plans for the merger, which span the next fi ve years, must be adjusted to ensure that the merged Trust is sustainable and successful for our patients. We must also ensure that our plans will satisfy Monitor, the independent healthcare regulator, that we are able to achieve a safe transition and robust future."

The statement went on to say that "both organisations remain clear that the opportunity presented by the proposed merger is the best way to secure a strong and resilient future and to serve the people of Surrey in the provision of high quality care and treatment."

Delay to proposed Surrey hospitals’ merger decision

The Elmbridge Community Fund, launched in January 2015, has awarded its third grant to the Cobham based SAY Youth Club. A grant of £2,400 has supported the club's expansion to support older teenagers.

High Sherriff of Surrey, Elizabeth Kennedy and Elmbridge Community Fund panel member, Dominic Raab MP for Esher and Walton and Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Justice) presented representatives from SAY Youth Club with the grant cheque at an event promoting the Community Fund at the House of Commons.

The grant will enable the youth group to expand its programme to provide weekly activities for teenagers in a safe environment, away from the streets, which can for some, ultimately lead to danger to themselves and crime.

The Elmbridge Community Fund is a Community Foundation for Surrey fund established to support local community and voluntary groups who are making a difference to the quality of life in Elmbridge.

The Community Foundation for Surrey is an independent charitable trust established to inspire local giving for local needs. Companies,

individuals, families and trusts establish funds with the Foundation, to support a growing programme of grant-making to communities. This recent grant award by the Elmbridge Community Fund includes matched funding from the Bexington Fund, another Community Foundation for Surrey Fund.

Dominic Raab MP said: "We are delighted to have supported such a worthwhile local project and are excited by the huge potential of the Fund to support more and more local community and voluntary groups in the future."

Elmbridge Community Fund Panel Chair Richard Waller said: "Although Elmbridge is often perceived as a universally wealthy borough there are pockets of very real disadvantage and many people need extra support. The Elmbridge Community Fund works with existing charities and community groups to provide a simple way for local residents to support local communities in need.

"This is a permanent fund that will grow over time. Founding donors have already come together to establish the fund and supported us to award our fi rst three grants. Now we are seeking others to come forward to build the fund further."

Cheque Presentation: Reverend Folorunso Olokose, St Marys Church Cobham; David Frank, Chairman Community Foundation for Surrey; Dominic Raab MP for Esher and Walton and Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Ministry of Justice) and Elmbridge Com-

munity Fund Panel Member; Esther Holley, SAY Youth Club; Julia Kreisa, SAY Youth Club; Brian Amys, SAY Youth Club; Richard Waller, Elmbridge Community Fund Panel Chair; Fredeerick Kar, SAY Youth Club.

Elmbridge Community Fund awards its third grant to SAY Youth Club



The Complementary Health Partnership, 5-6 Sydney Terrace, The Green, Claygate, Surrey, KT10 0JJwww.comphealthclinic.co.uk • [email protected] • Tel: 01372 464659

The Complementary Health Partnership has been in existence since 1997 and has become fi rmly established and well-respected over a wide geographic area.From pre-natal through to adulthood, our aim is to off er treatments for a range of physical and emotional ailments within a professional, and genuinely caring and friendly environment.All of our practitioners are fully trained, qualifi ed and insured. Working together as a team, they off er many years’ experience.

Treatments Offered:• Acupuncture• Therapeutic massage• Refl exology

• Craniosacral therapy• Hypnotherapy/NLP• Counselling• Chiropractic

• Nutritional medicine• Herbal medicine• Homeopathy • Chiropody

According to the Care Quality Commission, Kingston Hospital’s Maternity services are amongst the best in London.

The results from the Care Quality Commission's national survey indicate that overall Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is performing on par nationally and as one of the best in London. It is rated as "better" than others when women were questioned about partner involvement during the labour and birth.

The responses from more than 20,000 mothers about maternity services across England indicate they have had positive experiences as a result of being fi rst seen by a midwife and always being spoken to in a way that is understood. Being treated with dignity and respect, having clean wards, toilets and bathrooms and more support for feeding also featured favourably in the survey responses.

This is the fourth survey of its kind that the Care Quality Commission has carried out in order to help NHS trusts understand what women’s experiences are of their maternity care and to make improvements. The Care Quality Commission uses this intelligence as part of its wider monitoring of NHS trusts and will help inform the Care Quality Commission's routine inspection of Kingston Hospital NHS Trust this month.

Anna Dellaway, Head of Midwifery said "We welcome the Care Quality Commission survey results and how it places our maternity services in London. We are pleased that Kingston is performing consistently with other NHS Trusts across England. Our philosophy of care is to put women at the centre of our service. We aim to make every birth special and ensure our women’s hopes and expectations are met during this special experience."

Kingston Hospital’s maternity services rated amongst the best in London

Scientists from the University of Surrey have uncovered a collection of important proteins that carry out and regulate critical biological processes. As the malfunctioning of these proteins and processes are linked to diseases such as cancer, their fi ndings could help with the development of more effective therapies for treating incurable and debilitating illnesses.

In the study, the team provide the fi rst comprehensive insight into an important class of regulatory proteins, RNA-binding proteins, and their interaction with the molecule mRNA – an important molecule that guides the synthesis of proteins - in two living organisms, baker’s yeast and roundworms. Though these two organisms are very different, the scientists found a striking evolutionary conservation in the proteins they uncovered, suggesting new functions for metabolic

enzymes, which the team believes has remained in existence for billions of years.

"This is an important breakthrough as the proteins and processes we have identifi ed are also present in humans, and we know they have strong links to diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Now we can use our new knowledge to test whether this is the case – a new mechanism for controlling key biological processes could eventually lead to the development of effective cancer treatments," said lead author Professor André Gerber from the University of Surrey.

"It could be that the RNA is driving the function, harking back to ancient mechanisms, before proteins were on the scene, or it could be that the proteins have a hidden function that we didn’t know about," added co-author, Dr Emma Laing from the University of Surrey.

University of Surrey research could aid fight against cancer

The Surrey Hills Challenge is set to be one of the biggest sporting challenges in Surrey this year with a series of running and walking events in the beautiful landscape of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on Sunday 25 September.

People of all ages can participate in four different running and walking challenges. The Greensand Way will form the backdrop to the event where the super fi t can face the ultimate challenge with ‘The Ultra’, a 60km run, ‘The Half’, no ordinary walk (or run) in the park of 21km, ‘The Ten’, a fast and furious 10km or ‘The Five’, a family challenge 5km event.

The challenges start in Haslemere, passes the Devil’s Punchbowl at Hindhead, traverses the main Surrey hills of Hascombe, Pitch, Holmbury and Leith Hill, before descending north to Dorking. Much of the route is rolling hills, woodland trails, fi elds and

footpaths providing participants with glorious views. A booking fee of £2 per registration is applicable.

The event is open to everyone. Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult or guardian. For more information or to register visit www.surreyhillschallenge.com or telephone 01483 720459 / 542221.

Surrey Hills Challenge in September

Banner in hand: Representatives from The Community Foundation for Surrey, the Surrey Hills Trust Fund, Rutland

Management and AAT Events at the Devil’s Punch Bowl

OUTDOOR FITNESS 2016 - 5 TOP TIPS FOR WARM UP

1) From my background as an Olympic athlete and now coach and personal trainer, I know how important it is to warm up properly before a workout.

The main purpose of a warm-up is to provide gradual increase in activity to activate required energy systems, major joints and muscles. Stimulation of the CNS (central nervous system) prepares the body both physiologically & psychologically.

My first top-tip therefore is to make sure you do it! This involves arriving early for your session or allowing adequate time within your exercise plan.

2) It is important to stay warm during your warm up as this helps your muscles adapt to the increased demands being made on them, by increasing blood flow.

I therefore advise you wear an extra layer or two of clothing during your warm up, according to the season. This is especially relevant when training outdoors. I also apply deep heat spray to my extremities in anticipation of them becoming cold. This helps me to stay warm before competitions.

3) Your warm-up should be dynamic in nature and comprise activity-related movements.

This helps to increase the range of movement around the joints and reduces the risk of muscle

TOBY’SFitness Forum

damage. It has been shown that dynamic movements are much more effective than the traditional static stretches.

4) A warm-up should not only increase localised blood flow to muscles-it should prepare your entire cardiovascular system for exercise.

I advise a gradual increase in your heart rate through a gentle increase in tempo throughout your warm-up. This helps to ensure that enough blood, and therefore oxygen is being delivered to your muscles for the demands of the planned exercise, and the body is prepared for sudden movements or increases in intensity.

5) The warm-up is also a good opportunity for an individual to prepare themselves mentally for the game or activity ahead, and for a team to work together prior to the start of a game.

Warm-ups can also be used to practice skills and team drills. Take time during your warm-up to visualise what you will be doing during your session and focus on how you will tackle any particular foreseeable challenges, such as a steep hill climb or a close competitor!

Good Luck with your warm ups in 2016.

For any advice or to book a New Year personal training session please contact me on

[email protected] or 07971 089270www.tobygarbett.com

Toby Garbett is an Olympian, 2x World Champion Rower, GB Age Group Triathlete, Personal

trainer, Mentor & Speaker.

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Local law firm Taylor Fordyce has since its start in 2010 always aimed to provide a first class legal service to its range of clients from private individuals and small businesses to large enterprises, developers, government institutions, international corporations and investors.

Taylor Fordyce are now pleased to announce the appointment of Family Law and Mediator Martin Chambers at the Sunningdale office. Directors Peter Taylor and Rory Fordyce see the further development of the Family Law department as a natural addition to the firm’s existing company commercial, commercial property, litigation, employment, residential conveyancing and general private client work.

Living locally, Martin has in excess of 30 years’ post qualification experience. Martin is a member of the Law Society Family Law Panel and of Resolution, the organisation of family lawyers and other professionals who are committed to the constructive resolution of family disputes. Martin trained with Resolution as a Family Mediator.

Martin’s legal specialisms include divorce, judicial separation, nullity, civil partnership breakdown and dissolution; other relationship breakdown; financial, property and pension issues following relationship breakdown; Children Act matters; Inheritance Act and Trusts of Land Act Claims together with the drafting of pre/post nuptial, pre/post civil partnership, cohabitation and separation agreements.

Prior to joining Taylor Fordyce Martin worked for a number of firms in Surrey, Hampshire, the City and the West End of London, establishing family law departments at two London practices.

Martin describes himself as an extremely experienced and client focused family lawyer, committed to operating in an approachable and down to earth manner, always to the highest standards of quality and professionalism. He utilises up to date technology and methods in providing legal services and fosters links with many other professionals to ensure high quality and efficiency.

Martin is married with two teenage children. He is a member of the RG Blue Sox Softball Club. He also enjoys running. He is a supporter of and volunteer collector for Help for Heroes and a member of the Help for Heroes Running Team. He will be running the London 10k 2014 in order to raise funds for Help for Heroes. He is also a supporter of Helen & Douglas House and of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

• Commercial• Property• Conveyancing• Construction• Planning• Corporate• Civil & Commercial Litigation• Wills and Probate• Trusts• Matrimonial• Family Law• Employment• International

www.taylorfordyce.co.uk • email: [email protected] Chobham Road, Sunningdale, Berkshire SL5 0DT Tel: 01344 637960

1 & 2, City Business Centre, Hyde Street, Winchester SO23 7TA Tel: 01962 84104124 Upton Lovell, Warminster, Wilts BA12 0JW Tel: 01985 851206

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Over the next few months more than 12 million people will take to the slopes. Skiing and snowboarding are exceptionally enjoyable activities however it is important to keep ski safety in mind at all times. Snow sports carry an acknowledged risk of accidents and injury however, there are things that you can do to reduce your risk.

One of the key things you can do is to wear a helmet. Over the past few years, the importance of wearing a helmet has been a hot topic, in fact, a 2011 study in The British Medical Journal suggested that helmets can reduce the chance of sustaining a head injury by 35% in adults and 59% in children under the age of 13. Another issue to consider is that if you do have an accident, you may need to be taken from the slopes to a hospital as well as receiving treatment before you return home. This is why it is very important to have adequate travel insurance in place.

Returning to the UK after an accident could be very expensive without insurance. For example, the cost of being airlifted to hospital could be £2,500.00 and treatment could

protection if you cause an accident. Surprisingly, research from ABTA indicates that 22% of people still travel without suitable insurance in place. Accidents can also be caused by other factors including improper use of the ski lift, accidents with snowmobiles or snow groomers as well as use of incorrect or faulty equipment. Overall, some top tips for the slopes are:

www.barlowrobbins.com

Charlotte Rees-KnowldenSenior Associate,Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence01483 543236

Accidents on the Slopes

• Take out travel insurance (ensuring that it provides for rescue from the slopes and treatment if required)

• Don’t drink and ski• Watch your speed and be vigilant for

those around you

• Use equipment properly• Do not ski beyond your experience

level•

guide• ....and have fun!

Q. My wife and I invested in an Offshore Investment Bond whilst we were working and living abroad. We want to cash it in but are unclear if there will be a Tax liability. We are hoping you can clarify. A. I can certainly explain the process which hopefully will assist you. Whilst invested, an Off Shore Bond will benefit from Tax Free growth, but upon surrender any gain/profit will be taxable. The gain (called a chargeable gain) is subject to Income Tax, NOT Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and so your CGT Allowance is of no use. To calculate the chargeable gain you take the surrender value, add any previous Withdrawals and then deduct the amount originally Invested. The resulting figure is the chargeable gain. You can claim Time Apportionment Relief for the period you were overseas to reduce the chargeable gain. For example, if you held the Bond for 10 years, but 6 of these were while you lived overseas the chargeable gain can be reduced by 6/10th or 60%. The resulting chargeable gain is divided between you, and added to your Income to determine the Income

Tax due. Adding the chargeable gain to your income may mean your income moves in to the Higher Rate Tax threshold (40%) in which case you can use ‘Top Slicing’ to reduce the tax liability. This allows you to divide the gain by the number of years the investment has been running which gives a ‘Slice’. You do now have to exclude any period you were overseas. Taking my earlier example, if the chargeable gain after the Time Apportionment Relief was £50,000 you could use 4 years of Top Slicing (6 were used for Time Apportionment Relief) which gives a ‘Slice’ of £12,500 (£50,000 / 4). This Slice is added to your income and if it remains below the Higher Rate Tax threshold you will pay Tax at 20% not 40%. If some of the Slice falls in the Higher Rate Tax Band this part will be taxed at 40%. If you pay tax at differing rates you may find it beneficial to assign the Bond to the one paying tax at the lower rate prior to surrendering. Any chargeable gain will be against their tax rates, which could give a saving. If you do not need the full amount you can withdraw 5% of the original investment for each year the Bond has been running tax free, but tax will be payable in future, possibly at a lower rate. It may also be beneficial to make partial surrenders over a number of years. For an accurate calculation and tax planning, please get advice from an Independent Financial Adviser.

Send your queries to Peter Sharratt, Kirk Rice LLP, The Courtyard, High Street, Ascot, Berkshire,

SL5 7HP .

Email [email protected]

Please note: answers are given for general guidance only and specifi c advice should be taken

before acting on any of the suggestions made.

Money Matterswith Peter Sharratt

Approved Offshore Investment Bond


Call today on:Telephone: 01483 820226 Mobile: 07939 688597

email: alexander_roofi [email protected]

Kingston Council is appealing to landlords in the community to come forward and offer self-contained properties for Syrian refugees, identifi ed by the United Nations as vulnerable.

Competitive rents will be offered within Local Housing Allowance Rates. Refugees housed through the scheme will be supported by a caseworker, arranged by the Council and funded by the Home Offi ce.

Syrian refugees who are eligible to be rehoused in this scheme are all currently living in the Middle East. They will be screened for security issues. These vulnerable people could have endured torture or violence, they may have physical or medical needs or be women and girls at risk. Some will speak English but mostly will be fl uent in Arabic, with good levels of education and be from from various religious backgrounds.

Councillor Kevin Davis, Leader of Kingston Council, said: “The Syrian refugee crisis is as urgent as ever. Millions continue to live in unsanitary tents and

Kingston Council asks landlords to offer homes for 50 Syrian refugees

makeshift shelters. The harsh winter conditions make their lives very diffi cult indeed. While our government has given signifi cant money to the relief effort, I fi rmly believe our community can also contribute in its own way.

“We could transform the lives of 50 people by fi nding suitable, self-contained homes in our borough. I’m delighted that Kingston is amongst a handful of councils to be taking a lead in this and sending a clear signal to other parts of the UK that more needs to be done.

“We appreciate there are long waiting lists for our existing stock of council housing. That is why we are appealing to landlords in the area, for their support to help us fi nd around 15 properties to house the families and individuals who make up this group of 50 Syrian refugees.”

In order to qualify for the funding, homes need to be self-contained and available to rent for at least a 12 month period.

Thinking of building a big house extension or your own home in 2016? You aren’t alone!

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published new research forecasting the main trends in UK housing design for the year ahead.

An increase in land availability and the relaxation of planning restrictions have led to an increase of one-off single houses and housing extensions. Some 55% of RIBA’s architects reported that bespoke homes and housing extensions are getting bigger in size.

As the ageing population increases, more of us are planning ahead for later in life by seeking designs solutions to facilitate easier living. Adaptations to make independent living simpler, or adjusting a family home layout for the addition of an older family member are the two main drivers in this growing market.

The popularity of generous multi-functional living spaces - combining cooking, dining and living space shows no sign of diminishing – when these spaces are combined with direct access to gardens and outside space, they are even more popular with 66% of RIBA’s architects reporting a demand.

Over the course of 2015, RIBA Chartered Architects have reported the design trends in greatest demand:

Sustainable and energy conservation measures - demand for sustainable materials, advanced insulation products, water conservation and recycling features

Larger extensions and bigger new build bespoke houses

Adaptable designs - increased demand for homes that can make living easier for ageing occupants and live-in relatives

Family social hubs – multi-functional open-plan spaces are still highly desirable

Sustainability and energy conservation are no longer niche concerns but factor prominently in the design decisions of many clients. Some 70% of RIBA’s architects expect to see an increase in specifying advanced insulation products and 66% expect to see a rise in the use of solar/PV panels.

Royal Institute of British Architects heralds housing design trends for 2016

England’s most expensive streets named in new Lloyds Bank report Victoria Road in Kensington is England's most expensive residential street. That's according to a recent report issued by Lloyds Bank, which says Victoria Road has an average house price of £8,006,000.

Such is the pull of living in Kensington and Chelsea that 12 streets in the Royal Borough are in the list of the 20 most expensive in the country.

Andrew Mason, Mortgages Director at Lloyds Bank, said: "This part of London has always had a glamorous reputation, attracting overseas buyers as well as those from the worlds of business and entertainment. The area clearly has its attractions with excellent schools, designer shops, close proximity to the capital's business district and properties with the highest specifi cations."

Away from these two prime central locations, Parkside in Merton in south west London is amongst the 20 priciest streets with an average

price of £6,355,000. Parkside is followed by West Heath Road in Barnet, north London (£5,199,000), and Anhalt Road in Wandsworth (£4,686,000).

Outside the capital, Leys Road in Oxshott is ranked most expensive at £3,677,000 followed by Icklingham Road in Cobham (£3,094,000).

The next most expensive are Moles Hill in Oxshott (£ 3,085,000), Harebell Hill in Cobham (£3,041,000), Coombe Hill Road in Kingston (£2,955,000) and Abbots Drive in Virginia Water (£2,937,000).

At an average price of £2,280,000, Esher Park Avenue is named as the most expensive street in Esher.

“Outside London, the areas with the most expensive streets are generally located away from central areas, where buyers are typically attracted by larger properties and more green space," Andrew Mason said.

Six girls from Notre Dame School in Cobham have achieved bronze awards in the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust Senior Maths Challenge. Over 82,000 pupils participate nationally in the Senior Challenge with the top 10% receiving a gold certifi cate, the next 20% silver and the next 30% bronze.

The number of awards this year sets a new record

for Notre Dame for the Senior Challenge and the school is very proud of their achievements.

The UK Mathematics Trust is a registered charity whose aim is to advance the education of children and young people in mathematics. It organises national competitions and enrichment activities for UK

secondary school mathematicians.

Maths success at Notre Dame School

A motorist with a string of convictions has lost an appeal against a refusal by Elmbridge Borough Council to issue a taxi driver licence. Asim Iqbal of Weybridge applied to the Council for a driver licence in July 2015 but following consideration of his convictions offi cers refused to issue the badge. The motoring offences included four counts of driving whilst disqualifi ed and fi ve instances of driving without insurance. In addition Mr Iqbal had also been convicted of theft and obtaining property by deception.

Licensing offi cers were concerned at the pattern of re-offending, the sheer number of convictions and that on questioning Mr Iqbal dismissed the severity of the offences. At a hearing at Redhill

Magistrates Court on 15 December, Mr Iqbal argued that the convictions were in the past and that he wanted a licence now so he could continue to live locally with a relative. However, the Magistrates did not consider Mr Iqbal’s reasons relevant to the public safety objective and dismissed his appeal.

Licensing Committee Chairman, Councillor Ian Donaldson said: "The Council’s policies are fi rm in dealing with offenders to protect Elmbridge residents. The appropriateness of granting a licence to an individual with so many convictions has to be called into question. We thank the Magistrates for upholding this example of sound decision making."

Mr Iqbal has to pay £950 in costs to the Council.

Wayward motorist barred from driving taxis in Elmbridge



January Gardening with Alison Jones

Happy New Year! Take a break from all that time indoors and raise your New Year spirits with some gardening. Wrap up warm and take stock of your garden to plan for next season. You don’t even have to wait till spring to get planting. As it was a mild end to the year, the soil will be easy to work, and you can plant shrubs so long as the ground isn’t frozen.

Now it’s January we can look forward to some early flowers and the appearance of cheering bulbs such as snowdrops. You might want to introduce some extra winter colour with our three ‘plants of the moment’ – the hellebore, Euphorbia and Sarcococcoa.

The rose-like hellebore tends to be a very hardy winter plant, giving much needed colour in the coldest months. Helleborus x ericsmithii ‘Pink Frost’ has buds that open in a light shade of pink and mature to burgundy red. Its handsome silver veined evergreen foliage has dark red stems to enhance the effect. It prefers partial shade or a shady position and is tough but likes well-drained soil. It looks good in a container where you can appreciate its charms close up, as well as in the borders.

Euphorbia characias ‘Glacier Blue’ is a striking new form of euphorbia with smoky blue-grey leaves and creamy white edgings. It forms a mid-sized mound, with conical flowers to look forward to in spring. Plant one now to make the most of the spring blooms. Prune the spring flowers in June and you should be treated to a second flowering in the summer. It likes full sun or partial shade.

Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’ is a

plant you may well smell before you see. The small white flowers provide a delightful heady scent in winter. Plant by a door or patio to get the benefit of its rich honey fragrance. The Sarcococca is happy in full sun, partial or full shade. It’s a very hardy plant and is tolerant of most soil conditions so long as the ground is kept moist, so give it a good mulch to retain moisture.

As well as looking out for these plants, the garden centre has a good choice of

dormant trees, shrubs and perennials ready to fill

gaps in borders or to make features

of in containers. Come and have a browse!

January often brings the coldest temperatures,

so protect your tender perennials

from the worst that the winter might

bring. Tuck them up with horticultural fleece from the garden centre, which gives them air and light, and lets the rain through. Move containers close to the house

or to a protected spot in the garden and check they have good drainage to

stop the roots freezing. Remember to have an unfrozen water

source for birds and other wildlife, and leave out a regular supply of high energy food to help them through the winter.

Until next month, happy gardening!

Alison Jones is Plant Buyer for Garsons Farm

in West End, Esher

Good Gardening

with Alison Jones

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CLAYGATE £1,595,000 Set within the Ruxley Heights private estate, this outstanding refurbished and extended detached family house provides spacious and fl exible accommodation. The property has beautifully landscaped front and rear gardens, off street parking and is available with no onward chain. Entrance porch, spacious entrance hallway, cloakroom, Living room/t.v. room/dining room, conservatory, utility room/laundry area, fi ve bedrooms, three bathrooms, integral double garage, off street parking, landscaped front and rear gardens. EPC Rating: D

CLAYGATE £949,950Located in an established, favoured location just on the outskirts of the village, a superb detached house offering fl exible family accommodation with excellent potential to extend (subject to the usual consents being granted). The accommodation includes: spacious entrance hallway, cloakroom, large living room, dining room, modern fi tted kitchen, further reception room, study/bedroom, shower room & w.c, four bedrooms, spacious bathroom and w.c. Externally; good size rear garden, detached garage and utility area, excellent frontage providing parking for several vehicles. EPC Rating: D

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ESHER £5,950 PCMA completely unique detached corporate family home, set within its own private gated development, only minutes from Esher High Street. The property is exceptionally well presented and has a very detailed specifi cation. The accommodation is arranged over three levels, including four downstairs reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, six bedrooms, four bathrooms and private grounds. Available immediately.

CLAYGATE £2,400 PCMA most attractive period cottage, which has been greatly enlarged to provide a stylish, contemporary style interior with an impressive open plan living space with wood burning stove, three bedrooms upstairs and bathroom with 2 further bedrooms/ reception rooms on the ground fl oor and shower room & w.c. Secluded rear garden. Available immediately. EPC Rating: D

CLAYGATE £1,650 PCMA very well proportioned three bedroom semi detached house, that offers well proportioned accommodation. The property is located in this well established and favoured residential road, within very easy reach of Claygate’s comprehensive local shopping facilities and railway station. Two reception rooms, fi tted kitchen, utility room/ study, family bathroom, good size garden and ample of street parking. Available immediately. EPC Rating: D

CLAYGATE £2,395 PCMAn immaculately presented townhouse, discretely located within a private gated development. The property is available to let either furnished or unfurnished. Cloakroom, separate utility room, bedroom four/study, shower room, modern fi tted kitchen/breakfast room, second cloakroom, lounge /dining room, master bedroom with ensuite, two further bedrooms, modern family bathroom, private rear garden, integral garage and off street parking.


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Cobham 01932 868 448Oxshott 01372 844 200

Claygate 01372 470 123

A spacious family home offering fl exible accommodation over two fl oors. The property offers three reception rooms, fi ve bedrooms, a family bathroom and two en-suite shower rooms. Externally the driveway provides off road parking and a detached double garage. EPC E.

Ruxley Ridge, Claygate £1,199,950A rare opportunity to acquire a detached fi ve bedroom character property, situated on a secluded plot in Claygate’s only private estate. This property offers scope for modernisation or development (STPP) and is available with no onward chain.

Ruxley Crescent, Claygate £1,295,000

A well presented fi ve bedroom family home situated just a short walk from the local shops and station. This property offers well-proportioned accommodation, a fl exible fl oorplan and potential to extend (STP). EPC Rating C.

Oaken Lane, Claygate £975,000A modern, three bedroom detached family home built by Beaufi eld Homes in 2009, benefi tting from three reception rooms, off-street parking for two cars and a master bedroom with an en-suite. Situated conveniently for the local amenities and station with the open spaces of Telegraph Hill just a short walk away. EPC C.

Telegraph Lane, Claygate £885,000

A detached, well presented three bedroom bungalow situated within a quiet cul de sac. Benefi ting from a large kitchen/ breakfast room, a garden studio and an option of completing a loft conversion to create a fourth bedroom (STPP). EPC D.

Trystings Close, Claygate £825,000A well-presented three bedroom semi-detached property situated in an extremely convenient and desirable road. Located moments from the local schools, shops and station with the potential to enlarge and reconfi gure the existing fl oorplan under permitted development. EPC E.

Gordon Road, Claygate £800,000

This attractive three bedroom, three reception room family home offers great living accommodation. The property has been refurbished to a high standard and is ideally located within walking distance of Claygate’s shops and station. The property is offered with no onward chain. Potential to Extend (STPP).

Aston Road, Claygate £725,000This three bedroom semi-detached property offers potential buyers the opportunity to put their own stamp on the property by updating or extending (STPP). Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac benefi tting from a large West facing rear garden, a detached garage and ample off street parking. No onward chain.

Langbourne Way, Claygate £660,000

A two double bedroom semi-detached property set in a quiet cul-de sac within easy walking distance of the local shops and station. This property offers the next owner the possibility to reconfi gure and extend the current layout (STPP).

Simmil Road, Claygate £619,950A two bedroom period cottage beautifully refurbished to a high standard with engineered oak fl ooring throughout the ground fl oor. This family home is ideally located within walking distance of the local amenities and station and benefi ts from a two tiered garden. EPC D.

Hare Lane, Claygate £499,950

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EBRATING

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AND ALL THE BEST THINGS TO DO

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johndwood.co.uk

SURREY, ESHER

Located in arguably one of the most

popular private locations in Esher

is this exquisite detached family

residence. Originally built in the

1970’s, Pinewood has been vastly

extended and transformed by the

current owners in to an immaculate

dwelling of approx. 4,041 sq ft.

Energy Rating: C.

5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3

reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast

room, pantry, boot room, study, utility,

garage, garden.

Freehold Guide Price £2,395,000

SURREY, ESHER

Situated in arguably the most

picturesque area of Esher is this

beautiful semi-detached period

home. The property boasts approx.

4,774 sq ft of flexible accommodation

and offers a wealth of original

features with charming fireplaces and

stunning high ceilings.

Energy Rating: E.

5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms,

4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast

room, pantry, utility room, study,

garage, garden.

Freehold Guide Price £2,750,000

Doug Parks Branch Manager

There is a lack of property available and we have applicants looking across all price ranges. Call us now for a

confidential market appraisal to discuss this further.

ESHER 01372 462211 [email protected]

See all our properties on and many more websites.


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Vinyl FloorcoveringGlade House, High Street, SUNNINGHILL

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Here we are into January, and if you’re feeling like me, you probably can’t face another chocolate, piece of cake or glass of wine ever again. Oh yes it was wonderful at the time and boy oh boy did I stuff my face, but now I feel like Mr Blobby! I noticed the Queen (middle daughter), giving me a look of exasperation the other day as she spotted me eating my second box of Lindt chocs – Forgot to mentioned she’s a personal trainer! Whoops – time to think about exercise I suppose!

Anyway we had a manic time work-wise with a couple of 21st parties and some fun Christmas parties. It was all so crazy that as usual, most of my Christmas shopping took place on Christmas Eve! Although there was a slight stress, all was under control until the crazy people with the long handle shopping trollies took to the street. Twice I fell over the deadly things and my cheerful demeanour was extremely short lived! However, within a couple of hours I’d purchased everything, even the turkey. Nothing like last minute... Yes I have heard of on-

line, but it takes me so long to order the goods, that it times out and I have to start all over again. Its sooo frustrating.

- Jenny- Jenny

Jenny Marks’ Mad MonthJenny Marks’ Mad Month Getting back to work. I’ve included a couple of super pictures which I think epitomise a good party... There is the before – lovely marquee and garden with twinkling fairy lights all set to go. Then you have the after – a trashed garden, furniture everywhere and a marquee covered in mud!! This was a 21st in Richmond and the party goers were such fun. Unfortunately in the early hours it decided to rain and the rather ‘jolly’ guests decided to dance outside in the mud and then bring it all inside again! Great fun being on your hands and knees trying to clean up blodges of mud whilst people are dancing around and over you!

Being the helpful event organiser that I am, and having so many marquees going up throughout the holidays, I decided that I would ‘help’ the boys in setting up the structures and thus learn a new skill. Not sure why, but the lads didn’t seem that keen on the idea! Not taking any notice of their tutting and shaking of heads, I decided to get stuck in, as there was a heck of a strong wind blowing and my enthusiasm was in danger of wavering. To cut a long story short, whilst I was winching up linings on long ropes, the wind became so strong, it whooshed up the linings, pulling the rope out of my

hand and sending them down the hill.Whoops... I must have looked a sight running

down the fi eld in my wellies arms fl ying all over the place and the guys zooming up behind me shouting like mad men. Luckily we retrieved the linings and the boys decided to forgive me – especially when I bought them all a pint after work! Well that’s another experience I’m not going to repeat!

Another huge life-changing event that took place at the end of last year, and much to the delight of my children, who have pressurised me for years - I am now the owner of an iphone... My lovely Blackberry has gone! I know it sounds crazy, but the stress in taking that decision cannot be believed.

Having made the appointment and with deep breaths, I entered the store. With panic on my face I explained to the ‘guru’ (what a peculiar title!), that both my working and personal life were on that Blackberry. The ‘uber’ calm chap told me not to worry and laughingly said he had organised this procedure many times, promising that within two hours max, the process would be complete. Bless him! Having eaten lunch and afternoon tea whilst watching my ‘lovely chap’ have a meltdown – I glanced at my watch to discover over 4 hours had passed. The poor guy was so red in the face, but managed to eventually transfer everything from the Blackberry and set me up with my new phone. When I thanked him for his mammoth effort and asked if I could come to him with any issues I may have, he suggested I try a store nearer to where I live. He then scuttled off to the back offi ce muttering something like ‘never again’! I felt so bad that I went off and bought some chocolates to say thank you, but he was nowhere to be seen!

On that note, I’ll just tuck into the fi nal tub of Roses Chocolates – well it’s a shame to waste them and the diet can start tomorrow, or the day after, or whenever!!!

Happy New Year!

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London Road, Sunningdale, SL5 0ERTelephone 01344 621333

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SALE NOW ONSIZES Small – 5XL

It all seems such a long time ago now but Saturday 5 December saw the start of Christmas in Claygate with the Christmas Lights Event in what was very much a community event. The turning on of the lights is the most popular event in Claygate's diary and the Parade was crammed with families and local residents turning out to join in the festivities.

Steve Wells, the MC, for the evening welcomed onto the stage Rukshana and Jehan Master who together with Eve from Claygate Primary and Jemima and Amelie from Rowan Preparatory School turned on the lights. The Masters have recently moved to Sussex having lived in Claygate for 34 years. Steve Wells thanked them on behalf of Claygate for their outstanding contribution

to the Village. Their work with the Scouts has benefi tted generations of young people.They were also founders of the Music Festival and the Garden Trail and the legendary Rukshana Fasion Shows raised money for many good causes including this event as well as being hugely active members of the Parish Council and Claygate Village Association.

Carol Shorter, Chairman of the Claygate Village Association said, "We were delighted Jehan and Rukshana could join us tonight. They have enriched the life of Claygate in so many ways and it is fi tting that they should be here when the whole village comes together as one happy community so that we can acknowledge the debt we owe to them."

Claygate says final thank you and farewell to two of the village’s most popular residents


As the new year begins and summer jam supplies start to look a little depleted the preserving British faithful turn their thoughts to marmalade. In spite of the fact that there are some countries where the word “marmalade” pretty much translates as “jam”, marmalade, at its bitter orange best, is pretty much exclusively a British obsession.

Seville Oranges - sour, coarse, pippy - arrive fleetingly on our shores from the beginning of the month; the Spanish seemingly happier to sell their crop to us than to use their own harvest. No other oranges will really do to make proper marmalade, the bitterness of a Seville being essential to a sophisticated marmalade palate.

Marmalade making, like all preserving, is more science than art. A certain proportion of fruit to liquid to sugar is necessary, with the natural pectin of the fruit also put into service to provide a set; method and detail, however, will allow the maker to exercise both choice and skill. The shred can be coarse and chunky or fine and delicate; marmalade can be very tangy with pith included in its body, or it can be clear gelled, pithless and shredded fine or, in extreme cases, shredless (although I think the fans of this last variety probably buy theirs off the supermarket shelf).

There are numerous techniques, preferences, and conflicting tips: there are those who boil whole oranges and then cool, peel and shred them before adding sugar, and there are those who juice and peel or slice raw fruit; there are fast workers who will typically have their marmalade made in a day and others who may take a couple of days over the affair.

There are those who swear by unrefined sugar to avoid ‘toxic froth’ (although I think that this may in fact be toxic tosh and the unrefined and brown sugar contingent simply prefer their marmalade darker and more caramel tasting); the opposing camp profess that a better colour and flavour will be created by white granulated sugar (never caster or icing which will give you problems), and there are those who warm their sugar while others think that this is a waste of time.

I am yet to find anyone who recommends using preserving sugar (with added pectin), although the choice is, of course, yours to make.

Having tried long drawn out methods in the hope of a superior product, I am now of the opinion that as long as the desired effect is achieved, there is no need to draw out the whole affair. Recipes abound - you will find them in books and Sunday supplements, online and via supermarket giveaways - so long as you know the important principles to bear in mind there is more than one way to skin an orange. The best advice might be to know what end result you want to achieve before you start and then set out to find a suitable recipe.

A basic recipe requires 1kg oranges to 2kg sugar to which you will add about 2 litres of water and the juice of a lemon. Before you start also make sure to have ready some sterilised jars (with lids or other suitable covers), and some small plates in the freezer together with a few frozen tea spoons.

A basic method might look like this: squeeze the juice from the oranges and the lemon into a pan suitable for making preserves (ie large, wide at the top, and not made from aluminium or other reactive metal).

Gather together the remaining pulp and all the pips and put them into a muslin bag - tie it together with kitchen string leaving a longish tail.

Cut the orange peel into strips slightly bigger than the size you want to see in your marmalade (they will shrink during cooking).

Put the muslin bag into the pan along with 2 litres of cold water and all of the orange peel; bring to a boil and simmer for a couple of hours, or until the peel is softened.

Squeeze the muslin bag to extract as much pectin as you can from the pips and then remove it. Add the sugar and, over a low heat, allow it to dissolve completely. Turn up the heat, and boil rapidly for about 15 minutes before you start checking for a set - or alternately take its temperature and start to check for the set once it reaches 103ºC-104ºC. A set is reached when a small drop of marmalade put onto a cold saucer with a cold teaspoon will wrinkle when pushed with a finger.

When your set is achieved, turn off the heat and move the pan away from the heat’s source; allow the marmalade to cool for ten minutes or so before transferring it into your waiting jars.

Erica xwww.acooksblog.com

“I came all the way in a lifeboat, and ate marmalade. Bears like

marmalade.” ~Paddington Bear,

Michael BondThis was the Burns Night pud some years ago now at a Burns Dance at King Georges Hall in Esher.

It will work very well I think as a winter, Supper Party dish, but beware its quite boozy and may have you getting your dancing shoes out once again!!

YOU WILL NEED – for 6 people

12tsps of porridge oats soaked for a few hours in about 4tbsp whisky.

600ml pot of double cream

3 tbsp clear honey of your choice ( I use orange blossom)

2tbsp drambuie.

Blackcurrants in syrup

This is very easy to make.

Start to whip the cream and as it begins to thicken add the honey. Whisk a little more and add the oats.As you see soft peaks just beginning to form add the drambuie and give a fi nal whisk.

Important not to over whip this pudding the fi nal mixture should be very soft peaks in consistency so be careful.

Now just spoon the mixture into your chosen chilled glasses. Just as you are ready to serve spoon over some of the blackcurrant syrup (not too much syrup though). Enjoy•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••When she’s not writing, Elizabeth runs her own catering business. She has also established an award winning initiative with volunteers who help feed patients in hospital at meal times.

A Highland Fling!


THE LEADERS IN PREMIUM CRUISING

Holland America Line’s fl eet of fourteen elegant ships blend grand staircases, tastefully appointed public areas and wrap-around teak promenades with the most ultra-modern of comforts, including spacious, attractively decorated staterooms and top of the range health and leisure facilities.

Grand but not immense, spacious yet intimate, these ships offer more space per guest than many other cruise lines… and a ratio of one crew member to every two guests means attentive, award-winning service from award winning crew, who will remember your every preference.

An open-air elegant teak promenade deck encircles your ship, perfect for lounging, strolling or enjoying the scenery. The spacious staterooms and suites offer every comfort and convenience, ranging from roomy inside accommodation to luxurious staterooms and suites with their own private balcony. Whichever you choose you’ll enjoy the most comfortable nights at sea with Mariners Dream beds, Egyptian cotton sheets, fl uffy bathrobes, salon quality hairdryers, fl at screen TV’s and DVD players, twice daily ice service and room service 24/7!

Known for the most extensive menus at sea served gracefully in elegant restaurants, Holland America Line now offers yet more dining experiences at the reservations only Pinnacle Grill, serving steak and seafood specialities enhanced by precious Bvlgari china and Riedel stemware. There’s “Canaletto” for informal Italian dining, while the ms Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam offer Tamarind - featuring sweeping views and inspired Pan-Asian cuisine at lunch and dinner. In the main two-tiered dining room, guests may choose from fi xed or fl exible “as you wish” dining times where to service is always gracious and the menu options both varied and delicious.

Resort amenities onboard every ship include two pools, one with a retractable glass dome, as well as spacious teak decks for sunbathing and strolling.

Further pampering opportunities are available at the Asian-inspired Greenhouse spa and salon, featuring everything from saunas, a hydro pool and state of the art fi tness centre to a dry fl oat suite and couples massage rooms.

Ms Koningsdam

New Ms Koningsdam will join the fl eet in April 2016, joined by a sister ship in 2018, and both will enhance and continue the evolution of Holland America Line’s premium cruise style for today’s discerning traveller.

The newest ship of any major cruise line to sail in Europe in 2016, Ms Koningsdam will spend the fi rst weeks of her premier season exploring some of the Mediterranean’s most iconic sights, then homeport from Amsterdam sailing to spectacular fjords and stunning Baltic Cities.

Sailing conveniently from Amsterdam onboard Ms Koningsdam, discover the great cities of the Baltic. Spend a day strolling through “wonderful” Copenhagen, travel to Berlin from the coastal port of Warnemunde, then enjoy pretty Tallinn with its fairytale turrets and cobbled streets. Your highlight: two full days to explore St Petersburg’s treasures including the Hermitage, the Catherine Palace and the Church of the Spilled Blood. And there’s more, the “garden” city of Helsinki in Finland, and scenic Stockholm, Kiel (for Hamburg) then Gotenburg in Sweden.

During days at sea guests may enjoy enriching and varied activities, such as gourmet presentations, tasting events and hands-on cooking classes in the state-of-the-art Culinary Arts Centre.

They may learn new digital skills at the complimentary Digital Workshops, sponsored by Microsoft, or relax in the Explorations Café, a high tech retreat with speciality coffee bar that is powered by the New York Times, and offers fascinating resources - and bestsellers galore!

“On Location” brings the destination experience alive through regionally inspired cookery classes, artisan workshops, local entertainment and more, while a new partnership with AFAR Magazine will mean that guests may research authentic destination experiences to suit their whims before and during their cruise.

Offering itineraries featuring everything from Alaska’s glaciers to Asian temples; Australasia to the mighty Amazon, the balmy Caribbean to colonial Canada; the 2016 programme epitomizes the ultimate in worldwide premium travel experiences. Closer to home, a programme of summer cruises depart conveniently from European cities, with itineraries that range from a week in the Fjords to a full Iceland circumnavigation; leisurely Mediterranean explorations to Midnight Sun and Arctic voyages.

Holland America Line’s new View & Verandah promotion means that guests booking an ocean view stateroom before the end of February 2016 will receive a complimentary upgrade to spacious verandah accommodation. So don’t delay – book your room with a view today!


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Amidst the huge choice that’s now available within cruising, Holland America Line offers an experience that’s unique.

Premium … yet not pretentious … elite without being expensive. Perfect for discerning travellers who wish to see the world

- from the comfort of an elegant mid-size hotel at sea.



January Sale - save up to 40%

Right now, Scenic are giving you the chance to save up to 40% on your 2016 luxurious river cruise when you book your place on board by 29 February 2016. What’s more, when you book a balcony suite we’ll also take the hassle out of getting to and from the airport with complimentary door-to-door transfers. With prices starting from as little as £1,495 per person, you’ll need no excuse to experience the height of river cruise luxury in 2016.

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vertising Feature

Imagine your perfect holiday in the theme park capital of the world – Orlando. Then imagine an easy way to make your dream a reality. As experts in travel to the USA, Funway are perfectly placed to provide you with the ideal holiday. Established over 24 years ago, Funway provides expertise that you can trust, and our fl exibility means we can tailor-make your ideal holiday.

We offer a wide choice of accommodation whether you want to stay in a theme park resort hotel, or in the International Drive, Lake Buena Vista or Kissimmee areas. From 3* to 5* hotels, private homes and motorhomes with room only and bed & breakfast options, there are options to suit couples, families and groups of friends alike.

Our wide range of Orlando homes are the perfect choice for

a fully fl exible holiday, offering unbeatable value for money, all the home-from-home comforts you would expect, plus the added freedom to come and go as you please. Select from Standard, Executive, Executive Plus or Platinum level private homes which offer from 3 to 9 bedrooms and why not pre-book a named community? There are over 50 communities to choose from, all within 20-35 minutes of Walt Disney World Resort!

Visit the ‘Sunshine State’ and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping theme parks of Orlando, from Walt Disney World Resort to Universal Orlando® Resort and SeaWorld®! There’s so much for everyone to enjoy, including the shopping malls with bargains galore in Orlando Premium Outlets®, fi ne dining restaurants, local eateries, celebrity chef-owned restaurants, museums and galleries aplenty, plus nightlife that ranges from the House of Blues to Jesse Black’s Saloon.

The International Drive, or ‘I-Drive’, area is home to world-class attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping fun for the entire family! In terms of location, I-Drive is central to SeaWorld®, Discovery Cove®, Aquatica®, Wet ‘n Wild®, Universal Studios® Florida, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure®. If that’s not enough, there are plenty of other attractions such as Pointe Orlando, Wonder Works and Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, located directly on I-Drive.

The only card you’ll need unlocks the door to your suite

Imagine embarking on the journey of a lifetime and discovering a new destination every day. Now throw in once-in-a-lifetime events, 5-star ships and a treasure trove of inclusions and you have the essence of a luxury Scenic European river cruise.

Scenic have been handcrafting unforgettable holidays for almost 30 years. We’re now globally recognised as leaders in luxury river cruising, with a generous all-inclusive service and a state-of-the-art fl eet that’s guaranteed to blow your expectations out of the water.

Since launching our aptly named ‘Space-Ships’ in 2008, Scenic have innovated the river cruise experience.

Over 84% of the 85 suites on our custom-built vessels come equipped with a unique Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ - an all-weather balcony system that lets you enjoy the views of the river whatever the weather.

We also treat every guest, regardless of which of our six cabin grades you choose to stay in, to an en-suite bathroom replete with L’Occitane toiletries, a complimentary mini-bar that’s restocked daily, free WiFi, queen size bed, HDTV with Mac mini system and even a private butler service.

When you’re not basking in the comfort of your indulgent suite, our Space-Ships offer a wealth of fi rst-class facilities to keep you relaxed or entertained. There are a number of on board dining venues, including the main Crystal Dining restaurant and the Italian-themed cuisine of Portobellos. Our spacious Panorama Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to grab a free drink, from cocktails to top-shelf spirits – the choice is yours. You’ll also discover a wellness centre and fi tness area, while our spacious Sun Deck welcomes all those who wish to take in the

cool breeze of the water. As part of our sensational all-inclusive service - which includes

all fl ights, transfers, unlimited complimentary drinks, dining and tips - you can also look forward to an enthralling itinerary packed with inspiring days in historical and cultural towns and cities.

We currently offer an insightful collection of 8-to-15-day itineraries on Europe’s most sought-after waterways, including the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Rhône, Seine and Douro.

Days ashore feature fl exible sightseeing excursions courtesy of Scenic Freechoice. This unique programme gives you the opportunity to select your preferred excursions from a wide collection of activities, so you only see the things you want to see.

We also promise our guests a range of truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences as part of our exclusive Enrich highlights. From medieval banquets in ancient castles to front row seats at an exclusive classical music concert in Palais Liechtenstein, these included events promise to be amongst the most unforgettable moments of your cruise.

Just remember, when you step foot on board your Scenic

Space-Ship and you go to check in, keep your credit card and your Euros tucked away. With everything you could ask for included in the price of your cruise, the only card you’ll need is the one that unlocks your suite.

DEALS REVEALED

BOOK BY 31 JANUARY!

Florida Holidays from £419ppOnly £99pp deposit!

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