Council tax cuts proposed by Royal Borough for

WITH
LIVING IN
Property
Focus
A Bigger, Better, Brighter Read
Vol. 12 Issue 12
February 2015
Runnymede residents urged to remain
vigilant to stop fraud offences
The police are warning residents in
Virginia Water and beyond to remain
vigilant following a number of recent
fraud offences where elderly and
vulnerable residents have been targeted.
In recent weeks Surrey Police has
received a number of reports from
residents who have received telephone
calls from someone claiming to be
a police officer or similar who then
attempted to convince them to hand
over large amounts of cash and bank
cards.
The offenders often claim that a
victim's bank cards have been stolen or
used fraudulently and will ask them to
phone their bank to cancel the card and
will offer to send a courier to collect the
card or a sum of money.
The fraudster then stays on the line
and obtains the victim's bank details
whilst they think they are phoning
their bank. A courier then calls at the
victim's address saying they have been
sent by the police to collect a parcel - the
envelope containing the card or money.
Detective Constable Ben Kirby said:
"We have seen an increase in reports of
fraud offences across north Surrey since
the start of 2015 and we are deploying
additional officers and carrying out
further patrols to tackle this issue.
"These offences are a particularly
despicable as the offenders often
target innocent elderly and vulnerable
members of our communities.
"I can assure north Surrey residents
that a lot of work is also going on behind
FROM PAGE 12
www.livingwithin.com
sums.
"The message is simple, a police officer
will never ask you for your bank security
details or to withdraw money for them,
it is a scam."
Since the beginning of 2015, there
have been five offences of this nature
reported in Runnymede.
Anyone who can assist officers with
their investigation is urged to contact
Surrey Police on 101 or 999 if a crime is
currently in progress. Information can
be passed to the independent charity
Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800
555 111.
the scenes involving officers from our
CID, the Local Proactive Unit and the
Action Fraud Team to establish who is
responsible for these offences and bring
them to justice.
"We all have a part to play in preventing
these offences and I would ask anyone
who has contact with those who may fall
victim to these fraudsters to take every
opportunity they can to assist.
"I would also urge any victims who have
not yet come forward to do so, please do
not feel ashamed or embarrassed, these
offenders are extremely convincing and
we need your help in catching them
before they strike again.
"Thankfully the majority of those who
have been contacted by the fraudsters
have heeded our advice and not handed
over any bank cards or money but sadly
there have been a number of incidents
where residents have lost significant
Increase in Surrey primary
school applications
The increase in the number of applications
for primary school places in Surrey adds
up to enough pupils for a multi-million
pound school.
Surrey County Council has received
466 more primary applications for next
September than a year ago.
That is the equivalent of filling a new twoform entry primary that would cost at least
£6 million to build.
More than 13,600 applications for places
were submitted by last week’s closing date
compared to just under 13,140 a year ago,
early analysis of admissions figures reveal.
The latest news comes after a record
number of applications were submitted
for Surrey secondary places in September.
Since 2012, the council has created
more than 8,500 school places. Surrey is
facing a £215 million funding gap for the
13,000 places needed over the next five
years.
Linda Kemeny, Surrey County
Council’s Cabinet Member for Schools
and Learning, said: “These figures
show the continued strain being put on
education in Surrey at a time when many
of our schools are already full to bursting.
"We need to find 13,000 extra places in
our primaries and secondaries in the next
five years to meet unprecedented demand
but without adequate funding we’ll no
longer be able to guarantee every pupil
will get one."
Council tax cuts proposed by Royal
Borough for sixth consecutive year
For the sixth consecutive year Royal
Borough residents look set to benefit
from a council tax reduction of 2.1% for
2015/16 budget proposals set to go before
cabinet.
This represents a reduction in council
tax of 13.1% over six years.
The latest reductions means that the rate
for a Band D property will fall by almost
£20 from £926.40 last financial year to
£906.95.
Efficiency savings of more than £5m
have been identified including sharing
and outsourcing services, increased
income from the Parkwood leisure centre
contract and other contract savings.
Cllr Simon Dudley, cabinet member for
finance, said: “We have yet again focussed
on investing in frontline services while
increasing our administrative efficiency
and further reducing costs.
“By ensuring we run a highly efficient
council we are able to once again reduce
the tax burden on residents while
providing excellent value for money local
services.”
Cllr David Burbage, the leader of the
council, said: “We are ensuring this
council offers the best value for money for
residents.
“With our careful management of the
council’s finances, we are able to retain the
weekly bins collection, investment in roads
and in flood prevention, and protecting
vital services for adults and children alike.”
Overview and scrutiny panels have been
reviewing their respective budgets and
proposals will be discussed by cabinet on
Thursday 12 February. The final budget
decision will be made by the council on
Tuesday 24 February at the Town Hall,
Maidenhead, starting at 7.30pm.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
6
Health & Fitness
5
Travel
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22
Food
8 - 11
Schools & Colleges
– [email protected]
–
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7
Gardening
2
LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Estate planning
- Protection for your family
There are various ways to protect your family and estate on
your death and/or in the event that you became mentally
incapacitated. Well written Wills can afford you with the
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protected.
No Will?
It is a common misconception that you do not need to make
a Will if you are married. Depending upon how your assets
Alexandra Milton,
Associate,
are held, those assets may not automatically pass to your
Probate, Wills & Trusts
surviving spouse and instead may pass in accordance with
01483 748560
the Intestacy Rules. If you are unmarried and cohabiting, then
the Intestacy Rules do not provide anything from your estate
for your partner. A Will is absolutely necessary in affording your partner protection
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Will review
Where you have a Will, it is vitally important to review your Will in line with changes
to your circumstances, the value of your estate and legislation changes.
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RQWKHDJHFRQWLQJHQF\SODFHGLQWR\RXU:LOOIRUPLQRUEHQHÀFLDULHVZKLFKLQWXUQ
depending upon the type of Trust can produce unfavourable tax implications. We
would advise for you to review your Will to consider the position and possibly amend
\RXU:LOOWRDPRUHIDYRXUDEOHWD[SRVLWLRQIRU\RXUPLQRUEHQHÀFLDULHV
&DUH IHH PLWLJDWLRQ VHFRQG PDUULDJHV - You may want to consider protecting
your assets for future generations. For example, if you are in a second marriage and
want to safeguard your assets for your children but at the same time provide access
to funds for your spouse so to maintain their standard of living. Or, do you want to
protect your assets for your children against the potential care fees of your spouse?
www.barlowrobbins.com
Elizabeth Meatyard meets for tea
with Samantha Cameron at No.10
Cook and writer Elizabeth Meatyard recently
visited No.10 Downing Street for a reception
hosted by Samantha Cameron.
Elizabeth - who is well known as a Living Within
contributor - has been responsible for inspirational
work in the voluntary sector. Two years ago she set
up an initiative for volunteers to provide practical
support and companionship for older patients at
mealtimes in hospital.
Elizabeth said she was inspired to set up the
scheme after visiting a friend in hospital who
struggled to eat at meal times.
After undertaking an intensive recruitment drive,
more than 385 Dining Companion Volunteers
comprised of public volunteers, non-clinical
hospital staff and community groups now provide
practical support and companionship to encourage
older patients at mealtimes. The aim is to enable
older patients to eat well and as independently
as they are able to. As it is a volunteer led effort,
it frees up clinical nursing staff to focus on the
patients with the most complex needs.
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Surrey GU24 8HU
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February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Poll of Royal Borough residents
reveals support for Gatwick
expansion over plans for Heathrow
Almost six in 10 (58 per cent) of residents believe that the number of flights at Heathrow Airport should remain the same as they currently are.
A poll that the Royal Borough has carried out with
its residents predictably shows support for the
building of a new runway at Gatwick Airport.
The poll was conducted by Ipsos MORI prior to
the council responding to the Airports Commission
regarding its long term capacity consultation by
reaffirming its position that it is against expansion
at Heathrow Airport.
There are three proposals that the Airports
Commission is currently looking at:
• a proposal from Heathrow Airport Ltd
for an additional runway to the north
west of the existing northern runway at
Heathrow Airport
• a proposal from Heathrow Hub Ltd for
an extension to the existing northern
runway at Heathrow Airport to operate as
two separate runways
• a proposal from Gatwick Airport Ltd for
an additional runway to the south of the
existing runway at Gatwick Airport
The poll also showed that 31 per cent of residents
oppose (strongly oppose or tend to oppose) both
options for Heathrow expansion this compares to
22 per cent in favour (strongly support or tend to
support) putting support at negative 8 per cent.
Almost six in 10 (58 per cent) of residents believe
that the number of flights at Heathrow Airport
should remain the same as they currently are.
The poll shows that 50 per cent of residents
support (strongly support or tend to support) the
building of a new runway at Gatwick Airport with
only 14 per cent against (strongly oppose or tend
to oppose) building a new runway at Gatwick
Airport, putting net support of the proposal at 35
per cent.
A quota sample of 1,014 residents, aged 18 and
over, were surveyed in the poll which took place by
telephone between 8 and 11 January 2015. Survey
data were weighted back to the true population
proportions. The poll asked residents across
the whole of the Royal Borough not just those
currently affected by Heathrow Airport.
Cllr George Bathurst, chairman of the aviation
forum and cabinet member for policy and
performance, said: "This poll shows that Royal
Borough residents support our views and we will
continue to support expansion at Gatwick Airport.
"We are urging the Government and Airports
Commission to take into account the unacceptable
noise that our residents already suffer, particularly
at night, and if Heathrow Airport was allowed to
expand this would get dramatically worse.
"There is also the massive threat to our green
belt as there is a need for further development
and approximately 70,000 homes being built in
the surrounding area. Both Heathrow expansion
options would cause substantial harm to our
community.
"There would also be substantial harm to our
world famous heritage including Windsor Castle
and Eton College, ironically destroying one of the
reasons that many people visit the UK.
"We are backing Gatwick Airport expansion for
the stronger economic growth it would create. It
is more practical, more politically deliverable and
will give our residents and the UK more choice and
competition. We want to see Heathrow Airport as
a better not a bigger airport.
"As a local authority we will be responding to
the Airports Commission's consultation and we
encourage residents to respond on an individual
basis before 3 February."
Appeal for witnesses after an
attempted GBH in Ascot
Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses
after an attempted GBH in Ascot.
The incident took place between 7.00pm and
7.30pm on Friday 16 January in Ascot train station
car park off Station Hill Road.
A fight broke out between two groups of teenage
boys.
Police would like to hear from anyone who
may have seen the incident or a group of up
to six teenage males, at this time. It is likely
they approached Ascot train station from the
Brockenhurst Road direction.
Anyone with information about this incident
should contact investigating officer PC Rory Pratt,
of Maidenhead Police Station, via the 24-hour
enquiry line 101.
If you do not want to speak directly to the
police you can contact the independent charity
Crimestoppers (opens new window) anonymously
on 0800 555 111. No personal details are taken,
information is not traced or recorded and you will
not go to court.
Be Amazed...
The Look Out Discovery Centre
A Great Family Day Out, Whatever the Weather!
Hands-on Science fun for all the family
- over 90 exhibits to see, touch and explore.
Toys in Trouble shows 17th January
Open Daily
10am-5pm
- 4th May 2015
school holidays. Bring this advert
Show runs at weekends and Bracknell
ing adult*. Valid until 4.5.15
to get one free child with one full pay
*Terms and conditions apply.
The Look Out Discovery Centre (Opposite Coral Reef)
Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW
Tel: 01344 354400
Email: [email protected]
www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be
www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery
Living within Ascot
3
4
LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Money Matters
with Peter Sharratt
Trusts
Q. We are aware that Trusts can be used for
Inheritance Tax Planning but have no idea what is
involved in setting one up. Can you explain?
A. There are a number of different types of
Trusts and to cover them all in detail would
not be practical, so I will provide some general
information that would apply to most types of
Trust.
There are three parties to a Trust; the first is the
‘Settlor/s’. These are the individual/s that create
the Trust having decided what asset or property
they want to put in to it.
The second is the ‘Trustees’. These are the
individuals who are now the legal owners
of the trust assets/property. They have the
responsibility to administer the Trust for the
third and final party to the Trust which is the
‘Beneficiaries’. These are the individual/s that
are intended to benefit from the Trust and as such
they are the beneficial owners. A beneficiary can
be specifically named i.e. my daughter Madeleine
or a class of people such as ‘my children equally’.
If the beneficiary is named as per the first
example and you subsequently had more children
they may then not be able to benefit (depends
on the Trust). If however you used the second
wording any children in future would then
automatically become beneficiaries.
If you are using the Trust in conjunction with
a Life Assurance Policy or an Investment, the
provider will normally have a range of Standard
Trusts that you can select from and use.
You normally only need to add the details of the
settlor, trustees and beneficiaries, and then get it
signed and witnessed.
A settlor can be, and indeed will usually also be,
a trustee but additional trustees should also be
appointed, ideally two more.
Being a trustee is a responsible position and
you need to make sure you appoint someone you
know and of course trust.
They also need to be in a position to fulfil their
trustee duties and so ideally they should be
located in the UK.
A trustee can also be a beneficiary. The one
exception to this is the settlor; they can be a
trustee but NOT a beneficiary.
A Trust does not generally need to be mentioned
in a Will, as the Trust will typically apply to a
specific asset or property. Also the Trust will take
precedence over the Will so gifting the asset/
property in the Trust to someone else via the Will,
will not have any affect.
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 specific advice should be taken
before acting on any of the suggestions made.
Albert the police horse set to
retire after a decade of work
A police horse who has been an “absolute servant”
during a decade of working on demonstrations,
football matches and town centres is set to retire.
Albert, an 18-year-old Irish draught cross
thoroughbred, has been working for Thames
Valley Police since April 2005.
He has worked during animal rights marches,
English Defence League (EDL) demonstrations,
football matches, Oasis concerts, Royal Ascot
events and in city centres across the Thames Valley
on Friday and Saturday nights.
His career was recognised last year when he was
named as a runner up in the RSPCA and Daily
Mirror’s Animal Hero Awards 2014.
Later this year he will retire to The Horse Trust
in Speen, Buckinghamshire, where he will meet
visitors and live with other former police and
military horses.
PC Andy Barkus, of the mounted section, trained
Albert for the first 12 months of his career and still
remembers the day they first met.
He said: "Across the other side of the common
there was a lady who was exercising a race horse.
Normally that would set other horses off, but
Albert didn’t.
"I thought, that is a good sign."
PC Barkus added: "He is one of the only horses
whose name we didn’t change.
"Normally they get given god names – Odin,
Thor, or Caesar. But we kept his name because we
decided he looked like an Albert."
Albert, who is currently the longest-serving horse
in the Force, was originally owned by a woman
who lived in Westhope Common in Herefordshire.
He was the son of a racehorse and was originally
named Westhope Albert.
Albert went through six weeks of training before
he began to go out on operations, firstly in Oxford
City centre, then to an MK Dons football match,
and then to a Green Day and Oasis concert at
Milton Keynes Bowl.
PC Barkus said: "Most people who meet and ride
Albert like him because of his character.
"When horses don’t like something their ears go
back. Albert has never been like that. Generally his
ears are forward when people come over to him."
In November, Albert was named as a runner-up
in the public sector category of the RSPCA and
Daily Mirror Animal Hero Awards 2014. He was
pipped by Fuzz, a Metropolitan Police German
Shepherd.
But Albert did receive a Chief Constable’s
Commendation for his bravery during an EDL
march in April 2012.
PC Barkus said: "Albert has been an absolute
servant – absolutely brilliant. For us to get a horse
that has been at that level for 10 years is fantastic.
"The feeling for me is that I am pleased for Albert,
rather than missing him being here.
"He has served the public for a decade and now
he is getting the chance for a bit of a chill out and
holiday – and we can always go and see him at The
Horse Trust."
PC Kev Simmons, of the mounted section, said:
"Although he is one of our older horses, Albert still
tends to be full of beans.
"You take him out and he has still got that
liveliness about him – his body is a bit older than
his mind is now though."
PC Simmons said the EDL demonstration in
Slough was one of the most memorable events that
he had worked with Albert on.
PC Simmons said: "On that day he did everything
that was asked of him and, with everything that
was going on, he was brave – he is not the kind of
horse that would spook and run away from it."
Albert has been suffering from stiffness in
his joints over the last month, which came to
light just before a Christmas lights switch-on in
Buckingham – forcing him to miss the event.
Since then Albert has been resting and, although
his condition has improved, the Force’s vet has
said the stiffness, because of his age, is likely to
only get worse.
PC Simmons said: "We want to retire him at
a point where he can go and enjoy life with The
Horse Trust.
"He has done a great job for us and we want to
pay him back with a good retirement.
He added: "I suppose it is a mixture of emotions
for me.
"Because you end up going into scary situations
with the horses, you do form a bond with all of
them. They have all got different characters and
you do get attached.
"It is sad that he is going, but also enjoyable
knowing that he is going off to retirement and can
enjoy life and chill out for the rest of his days."
A date has not yet been set for Albert’s move, but
it is likely to be at the end of February.
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Royal Borough plans spectacular river
pageant for Magna Carta celebrations
A 'spectacular' river pageant will be the highlight
of the Royal Borough's 800th anniversary
celebrations of the sealing of the Magna Carta.
A flotilla of boats of all shapes and sizes will
make its way downstream from Bisham Abbey to
Wraysbury over the weekend of Saturday 13 and
Sunday 14 June.
Cllr Eileen Quick, cabinet member for leisure
and libraries, said: "Magna Carta is the foundation
of law and democracy in many parts of the world,
not just here in the United Kingdom, and the
world's eyes will be on us in June.
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime anniversary and the
river pageant will be a fabulous opportunity to
celebrate it."
Cllr Christine Bateson, cabinet member for
community partnerships, added: "This will be a
truly spectacular event that will be available for
everyone to see from the riverbank.
"The flotilla will be an added draw for British and
international visitors travelling here to take part
in the celebrations. So the borough benefits twice
over - residents will be able to enjoy the procession
down the river and there will be increased business
opportunities."
The pageant is being organised in partnership
with Thames Alive - which helped to organise
the Queen's Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant in
2012 - and Runnymede Borough Council. Costs
will be covered by sponsors and underwritten by
the Royal Borough.
Cllr Margaret Lenton, chairman of Wraysbury
Parish Council and chairman of the Royal
Borough MC800 stakeholders group, said: "While
the main focus will inevitably be on Runnymede,
the pageant and many other events will highlight
the key role in the sealing of the Magna Carta of
this side of the river, especially Ankerwycke in
Wraysbury."
An action-packed calendar of events, activities
and exhibitions leading up to the river pageant
is being organised by libraries, the Windsor &
Royal Borough Museum, schools and community
groups.
In June 1215 English barons assembled at
Runnymede to challenge the authority of King
John and on the 15th the Magna Carta was
authenticated by the Great Seal.
Africa- Safari and much much more
Holiday feature by Greenstar Travel and African Pride
There is an old African proverb “Let him speak who
has seen with his eyes” and reading these few wise
words it could easily be extended to add….. “Heard
with his ears, smelt with his nose and felt with his
heart”, for anyone visiting Africa will have their
senses stimulated more than anywhere else on earth.
Africa is huge and offers a range of fabulous holiday
choices- so where to start?
The ‘safari region’ covers eastern and southern
Africa. Let’s look at some of the common ‘safari’
questions we are frequently asked:
Which country and when?
Africa has around ten countries offering safari
holidays, with each having its own attractions,
wildlife experiences and accommodation, with
different climates and seasons.
LIVING WITHIN
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[email protected]
5
Which type of safari?
There is a huge range from luxury lodges to mobile
tented camps. Part of a small group or tailored to
individual requirements? A longer stay in one place
or a variety of locations?
What is the cost?
We will ask you to give us an idea of your budget. This
enables us to use our knowledge and expertise to get
the best options for that budget and we will advise
you of how that fits in with your own ‘ideal’ holiday
requirements.
What might I be able to see?
Is it large herds of elephants or leopards, or wild
dogs? Whilst nothing can be guaranteed we work
hard to try and maximize our client’s preferences to
ensure the experience is all it is hoped to be.
But Africa is not just safaris – It offers amazing
scenery, beautiful coasts, ancient rock art and
stunning accommodation.
So check out the many African Pride holiday
options by contacting Greenstar Travel and you too
can “see with your own eyes”.
Telephone 01372 462226
www.greenstartravel.co.uk
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LIVING WITHIN February 2015
TOBY’S
Fitness Forum
WANT TO RUN BUT DON’T KNOW HOW?
START WITH SMALL STEPS
Running is fun, sociable and does wonders for your
fitness and with the London Marathon approaching
runners seem to be everywhere. By following a
simple programme and training with friends you
will carry on burning excess Christmas calories.
A Goal
If you can find a goal of a 5km run scheduled for two
or three months time it will give you plenty of time
to prepare. Rushing your training can result in long
term injuries so take it slowly.
Stretching
It is important to stretch the muscle groups of the legs
before you try to run, particularly in cold weather.
Rotate ankles, stretch your calves, hamstrings and
quads for at least 5 minutes. Alternate jogging for 2
minutes and walking on the spot for 3 minutes until
you are ready to start. When you have finished use
this routine for your warm down.
Mix running and walking
Few people can run a mile at the first attempt so
don’t even try. Instead mix running and walking,
run for 30 seconds then walk for 90 seconds. Repeat
this nine more times for a total of 20 minutes. When
you can comfortably run/walk for 20 minutes 4
times a week change your run/walk ratio increasing
the amount of running time in between each walk.
Eventually you’ll be able to run for several minutes
without walking at all. You should be able to speak
without feeling out of breath. If not, slow down.
It is good to mix running on different types of
terraine as it not only strengthens the muscles but
also challenges your balance and softer surfaces
alleviate stresses and strains.
Get set for the 2015
Kempton to Reading
bike ride challenge
Clothes
It doesn’t matter what you wear as long as you
invest in a decent pair of running shoes and some
shops now even analyse your running gait for you
before you buy a pair.
Rewards
Running rewards with weight loss, steady progress,
less stress, more energy and a host of health benefits.
Nutrition
Keep well hydrated at all times and eat a balanced
diet. When you progress to longer distances start
taking on carbohydrates with a low glycemic index
which will allow you to maintain energy levels for
longer.
Good luck.
If you need any help, advice or motivation please
don’t hesitate to contact me.
Toby Garbett.
@tobygarbett
[email protected]
www.tobygarbett.com
Toby Garbett is an Olympian and
two-time World Champion rower. He
combines his own training regime with
providing leading edge fitness training
to private clients.
The British Heart Foundation London to Reading
Bike Ride is back for an amazing fourth year in
March.
The organisers describe the ride as a fantastic but
achievable challenge. This is one of the first big rides
of the year, so it’s the perfect excuse to rescue your
bike from the back of the shed and show it some TLC.
Setting off from Kempton Park Race course the 40
mile route will take you through the outer fringes of
London into the beautiful countryside and open roads
beyond. Until you reach Christchurch Meadows in
the heart of the bustling town of Reading. London to
Reading is ideal for those looking to get fit, training
for another event or just wanting to get a bit more
active in 2015.
The entry fee is £15 for adults and £7.50 for under
18 year olds. Your entry fee covers the cost of running
the event; it’s your sponsorship money that will help
save lives.
The event takes place Sunday 29 March. Riders can
set off any time between 8.00am and 10.30am. The
event finishes at 4.00pm
Email [email protected]. Visit www.bhf.org.uk
Telephone 0845 130 8663
Runnymede Council launches all
new tenancy strategy consultation
Readers in Virginia Water will be interested
to know that Runnymede Borough Council's
Housing Business Centre is currently consulting
on its Tenancy Strategy 2015-2017
Its first Tenancy Strategy 2012-15 was published in
May 2012 as a requirement of the Localism Act 2011.
The revised Tenancy Strategy 2015-17 will
be used to help shape the Tenancy Policies of
the Housing Associations who provide homes
in our Borough. The draft strategy provides
recommendations on the type of tenancies that
should be offered
As Runnymede is also a social landlord, its
revised strategy also proposes changes to the
type of tenancies it wants to offer. Runnymede's
proposed changes look to address the best use
of housing stock and to ensure accommodation
is made available for those applicants in greatest
housing need and give them every opportunity to
access a home which suits their household.
Runnymede is consulting with the public
through www.rbc-homes.org/choice/home.aspx.
Any interested party is invited to send comments
to Joan Stephens by Monday 16 February 2015.
The consulted Tenancy Strategy will go to
Runnymede Borough Council Housing Committee
for approval in March 2015, along with a summary
of all comments received.
Savill Garden visitors offered free
entry until end of February
Call today on:
Telephone: 01483 820226 Mobile: 07939 688597
email: [email protected]
Blow away those winter cobwebs and enjoy
fantastic walks with vivid pockets of colour and
scent around The Savill Garden, Windsor Great
Park, which is free to visit throughout January
and February (Normal car park charges apply).
Mark Flanagan, Keeper of The Gardens,
Windsor Great Park, said: "If your New Year's
resolution is to have more exercise, why not come
to The Savill Garden, enjoying as you go the
national collection of Mahonias, the sweet scent
and varied colour of witch hazel and the pockets
of vibrant colours and intense perfume on show
in the winter beds."
The Queen Elizabeth Temperate House
provides seasonal interest and a relaxing spot for
cold and wet days. Hyacinths and scented narcissi
fill the Temperate House with perfume through to
January and February.
Mark added: "The winter beds, with their
concentration of bright colours and glorious
scent, challenge the conventional view of January
and February being a barren time in a garden.
Whether it is the striking willows reflecting on
the water's edge, the unashamed radiance of the
dogwood stems or the clove-scented pink flowers
of the Himalayan Daphne bholua 'Jacqueline
Postill', there certainly is a lot to enjoy at this time
of year."
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Linda Regel’s
GreenFingers
Useful Plants
Choosing new plants for your garden can be
an overwhelming decision. I liken it to being
a child in a sweetshop, with row upon row of
exciting and delicious confections, spread
before your eyes. Garden centres will soon be
full of row upon row of fresh new plants in a
rainbow of colours, so how to do you begin to
narrow down the selection?
take a step back and choose a plant based on
the function it needs to fulfil in the garden.
Plants are jolly useful things. As well as
providing colourful leaves and flowers, they
can have a purpose in your life. For a start, they
are great for providing all kinds of shelter, both
large and small. If your garden is too hot, a
tree can provide shade for a seating area. They
7
dissipate the effect of a windy site better than
a fence, and they don’t blow over so easily. A
single plant can also help to protect a more
delicate neighbour, by providing a sheltered
environment, in which it can flourish. Grow
them big enough and they can screen out nosy
neighbours and nasty views too.
something, which provides winter berries for
birds, then sit inside in the warm and watch
them feasting. Butterflies are fun for children
to watch in the summer, so choose some plants
to attract them, and leave some more wild
areas in the garden for small mammals to find
shelter.
For free entertainment in the garden, plant
If you are concerned about security, pop in
some spiky bushes around the house windows
to deter people from leaning over and having a
quick look inside.
Can’t decide which new shrubs to add to
an existing border? Check first that have
something which is fulfilling the basic function
of providing some evergreen structure.
Evergreen structure plants may not be the most
exciting plants in the garden, but they do give
you something to look at in the winter, and act
as a backdrop for the stars of the show in the
summer.
Plants are most obviously decorative additions
to the garden, and this is often the basis upon
which they are chosen. “That looks nice, I’ll
buy it”, is one way of filling your basket quickly
and easily. However, it is sometimes better to
Finally if you are fed up with tradesmen taking
a short cut over your lawn, plant something
to impede their progress. A lawn is lovely to
look at, and provides a useful open space, but
it’s not much use at stopping delivery men in
a hurry. Plant something that grows to above
knee height along the edge of the path, to keep
them on the straight and narrow.
“
Butterflies are fun for children to watch
in the summer, so choose some plants to
attract them.
Fun at The Look Out Discovery Centre
The Look Out Discovery Centre is a fun place to
visit with all the family.
Taxing
Times
The centre is set in Swinley Forest, which has
over 1,000 hectares of woodland. Plus outside is a
popular adventure play area, orienteering course,
walks and trails and picnic area.
However, there is something for all ages! Can you
really leave your shadow on the wall? Go and make
a mini animation, fire up a hydrogen rocket, build
an unfinished house, launch the hot air balloon or
create circuits.
Check out the website - www.bracknell-forest.gov.
uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre - for details of the
current science show, which are on at weekends
and Bracknell Forest school holidays.
Open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm.
Admission charges
The super saver ticket is just £19.05 for 2 adults
and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children (valid
until 31 March 2015). Children aged 3 and under
are free! Special parent and toddler rates for term
time. There is a £2 parking charge for a 4 hour
visit to The Look Out. However, visitors (adult
and saver tickets only) to the hands-on science
exhibition who pay on the day will be given a £2
discount (parking stub needs to be shown at time
of purchase).
with Graham Jennings
PUBLIC SHOWS AT WEEKENDS AND
BRACKNELL FOREST SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Show entry costs just £1.85* per person in
addition to the main admission price to the handson science and nature exhibition. (*Valid until
valid until 31 March 2015)
Show times are at 11.00am, 12 noon, 2.00pm and
3.15pm, subject to minimum numbers. Shows run
at weekends and Bracknell school holidays. The
show is suitable for children who can sit down for
up to 30 minutes.
Toys in Trouble show
Back by popular demand is an updated Toys show!
This is a fun show with a light hearted look at the
science behind your toys. The Look Out's mascot
owl Eric has a very naughty sister called Erica and
she has messed up all of Eric’s toys, will you help
sort it out? Show ends Monday 4 May 2015.
- Linda Regel
Of course the higher rate (£41,865) and
additional rate (£150,000) thresholds are
also points where the rate increases, and
consideration should be given to keeping
income within the lower band.
For taxpayers with income falling around these
points it is crucial to consider what action can
be taken to reduce exposure at the higher rate.
In year pension contributions and gift aid
contributions in the year or subsequent year will
reduce the amount paid at these thresholds.
The main attraction is inside with over 90 handson science and fun activities.
The hands-on activities are mostly geared towards
primary school and pre-school children.
So decide if you need something big and shady,
small and spiky or medium sized and flowery
before you go the garden centre. Plants aren’t
just a pretty face, they can
earn their keep too!
Q: My total income for the current tax year will be
around £55,000. I am employed and so I assume
there is very little I can do to save tax, any ideas?
A: There are two critical thresholds of income that
all tax payers need to be very aware of whether they
are employed or self-employed. This is because the
marginal rate of income tax can be very high once
the threshold is breached.
First, where a taxpayer is subject to the high
income child benefit charge claw back with income
between £50,000 and £60,000 this can lead to very
high marginal rates where child benefit is claimed
for a large number of children – for four children
this is 72% and for eight children, 100%.
The second critical threshold is taxable income
between £100,000 and £120,000 where the
£10,000 2015/15 personal allowance is abated at
the rate of £1 for every £2 of income. If the income
in question is non dividend income this gives a
marginal rate of 60%.
So for example, if you have two children aged 12
and 9 then in the current tax year you will receive
child benefit of £1,770. Because your income is
more than £50,000 (and I have assumed your
spouse earns less than £50,000) then you would
be required to repay £885 of the child benefit.
However, if you instead decided to make pension
contribution in the year (2014/15) of net £4,000
then you would not have to repay the child
benefit. HMRC would add a further £1,000
to your pension pot to make a total £5,000
contribution so an added benefit. In summary a
£5,000 contribution to your pension pot would
only cost you £3,115 (£4,000 less £885).
Any reader interested in discussing this topic further
can telephone Graham Jennings on 01344 875000.
Send your taxation and accounting queries to
Graham Jennings, Kirk Rice LLP, The Courtyard,
High Street, Ascot SL5 7HP
Email [email protected].
Please note: answers are given
for general guidance only and
specific advice should be taken
before acting on any of the
suggestions made.
8
LIVING WITHIN February 2015
TASIS in partnership with Samsung
John Breidenstine, US Embassy Minister Counselor for Commercial Affairs; Mr. McBrien, Headmaster; Jack Severino, grade 8;
Lord Mayor Waddell; Savanna Bresenham, grade 12; and Andy Griffiths, President of Samsung UK & Ireland.
The TASIS England Centre for Innovation,
Inspiration, and Exploration is the latest development
on campus that reflects the School’s commitment
to forward thinking and visionary education.
Created in partnership with Samsung, the Centre
features cutting edge technology to support the
Robotics programme and courses in Digital Design
and Information Technology in a Global Society
(ITGS). Andy Griffiths, President of Samsung UK
& Ireland joined Headmaster Michael McBrien,
and Peter Waddell, Mayor of Runnymede for the
launch. Students demonstrated the work they have
accomplished with the new equipment in robotics,
3-D printing, and an exciting high altitude weather
balloon launch project—where students track a
camera-equipped balloon that is propelled into the
atmosphere. The journey up to more than 100,000
feet will be documented by the video recorder strapped
to the frame, along with its descent and final landing
point in East Anglia.
TASIS is the first school in Europe to feature a display
wall, which allows students to share ideas and to
collaborate on projects by using screen mirroring from
tablet to television. Robotics students use Samsung
Galaxy TabPRO tablets to program their robots, and
Start on
the right foot
www.notredame.co.uk
computer design classes are learning to create objects
with the new 3-D printer as they experiment with
product design. The printer will allow mathematics
classes to take their work from the page to more visible
dimensions.
The partnership with the Samsung Corporation and
donations from TASIS parents have made this exciting
new learning environment possible. As part of its
commitment to developing young talent and opening
the world of technological innovation to young minds,
Samsung facilitated the purchase of much of the
technology equipment. Local company MPL Interiors
designed the new space and thoughtfully planned how
the new learning areas in the room may be utilised to
their fullest capacity. The clean, high-tech decor in the
transformed building energizes the space and gives it a
new direction for the future.
The new Centre for Innovation, Inspiration, and
Exploration gives both teachers and students access
to technologies that promote advanced levels of
instruction and collaboration. By fueling creativity
and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives, this stateof-the-art setting and its programmes will equip and
empower TASIS students for success in a world where
the ability to embrace change is vital.
"#"! #!%"$ !
Open Mornings
" #" $""
"# $
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Open Days - UG 0DUFK and 11th -XQH 201
Notre Dame School, Cobham 01932 869990
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Culture of success at The Marist
The Marist Schools are independent Catholic day
schools for girls aged 2½ - 18 years. The Marist
welcomes all Christians and those supporting the
school’s ethos. Both schools are situated within
55 acres of woodland on a single campus in the village of Sunninghill in Berkshire. This enables pupils to enjoy their childhood in the company of the
same teachers and friends as they progress from
the Preparatory School through to Senior School.
The Marist Preparatory School offers a high level
of education within a broad balanced curriculum
in an atmosphere that is positive, supportive and
friendly. Great emphasis is placed on pastoral care
which is excellent throughout the school and is
judged as outstanding in the Nursery. The School
nurtures each child as an individual. Exploration
and creativity enable our Nursery girls to take
those all-important first steps in their schooling.
There is a wide range of extra-curricular activities
on offer which are age appropriate and facilities
are available for after school care.
At the Senior school, dedicated and highly qualified staff foster a respect for learning that enables
Marist girls to achieve consistently high academic
results in their public examinations, year on year.
This culture of success and excellence puts The
Marist amongst the highest ranking schools in
the country and allows Sixth formers to progress
on to higher education in Russell Group Universities, Universities abroad and within the UK. The
schools also enjoy an outstanding reputation for
sport, drama, music and the creative arts. Both
school’s offer before and after school care and a
generous sibling discount scheme. Scholarships
are available for entry into Years 3, 7 & and the
Sixth Form.
For more information or to request a prospectus,
please visit: www.themaristschools.com
Royal Holloway attracts a record
number of students
Royal Holloway, University of London has received
more than 16,000 undergraduate applications,
competing for around 2,500 places available in the
next academic year. The figures, released by UCAS,
represent a record high for Royal Holloway with
overall demand increasing by 14.7%, a much faster
growth than the sector as a whole which is up by 2.3%.
Professor Paul Layzell, Principal of Royal
Holloway, said: "These figures are a testament to
the hard work everyone across the College has made
and to the excellence of our academic programmes,
our superb campus environment and the closeknit nature of our community. We are pleased
that our applications show we are succeeding in
encouraging more bright students than ever before
to apply to Royal Holloway and we look forward to
welcoming them in September."
These figures come in the wake of the Research
Excellence Framework results confirming that
Royal Holloway University sits within the top 25%
of universities in the UK for research which is rated
‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent'.
Papplewick boys brave the freeze in Dorset
All Year 8 students from Papplewick School,
Ascot, recently travelled down to Dorset to collect data required for their Common Entrance
projects.
While studying the river from source to mouth,
the students were expected to challenge the
‘Bradshaw model’ and see if the West Corfe River
followed the ‘textbook’ characteristics expected.
The boys measured the width and depth of the river as well as the velocity and cross-sectional area.
One boy had to fish out rocks from the riverbed to
SCHOOLS
LIVING WITHIN
measure the change in pebble size and angularity
at the different sites along the river channel, while
the others worked out complicated mathematical
calculations of the Mean Discharge of the river.
"Despite the freezing temperatures, the boys
had smiles on their faces throughout, and were
a real pleasure to be with," said Tom Bunbury,
Headmaster. "They were professional while working in their groups and collecting their data, and
we’re hoping that the projects reflect their clear
enthusiasm and enjoyment."
COLLEGES
- SPECIAL REPORT
For details on how to feature your school email [email protected]
Girls 3-11, Boys 3-7
Spring Term Open Morning
Saturday 7th March 2015
10.00 am - 12.00 noon
Tel: 01276 855707
www.coworthflexlands.co.uk
9
10 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Talented young people congratulated
at Royal Borough awards ceremony
More than 200 young people were recently
recognised and congratulated at an awards
ceremony in Maidenhead. They were presented
with their Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh
Awards as well as certificates from the Award
Scheme Development and Accreditation Network.
The Award Scheme Development and
Accreditation Network is a curriculum
development organisation and awarding body
offering programmes and qualifications that
develop skills for life and for learning and future
employment. The youth service currently offers
SCHOOLS
programmes including volunteering, music,
history, cake making and decorating, peer tutoring
and expedition skills.
The event was hosted by Cllr Phill Bicknell,
cabinet member for children's services and
David Scott, head of education, strategy and
commissioning. The Mayor, Cllr Richard Kellaway
presented the awards.
Cllr Bicknell said: "The positives created by our
young people, whether in educational achievement
or volunteering successes make these awards
extremely worthwhile indeed."
COLLEGES
LIVING WITHIN
- SPECIAL REPORT
For details on how to feature your school email [email protected]
Alan Carr and Linda Stacey head up
new development team at Charters
Linda Stacey, Martyn Parker, Alan Carr MBE and Richard Pilgrim (Co-Headteacher)
Charters School in Sunningdale has announced
the appointment of a Development Manager, Linda
Stacey and a Development Ambassador Alan Carr,
MBE, to build on the success of the school, to drive
forward partnerships in the community and to
pursue opportunities for fundraising. They will be
looking at all aspects of development including the
funding plans for a brand new community sports
facility. Linda and Alan would love to hear from
staff and parents with any ideas or comments.
Linda said: "Charters is an outstanding school
with great teachers and I am tremendously excited
to be a part of its future. The development role is
a relatively new concept in state schools and it’s
great to see an important school like this taking the
initiative and establishing plans to ensure it has
the resources and partnerships it needs to succeed
in the 21st Century."
Alan said: "I am delighted to have been offered
this unique opportunity as the Development
Ambassador for Charters School which I see as the
heart and future of our community.
"I am looking forward to the enormous
fundraising challenges ahead, especially fulfilling
Charters’ aspirations of providing the Academy
students and wider community with a £2,000,000
state of the art sports facility and inspiring its
members to a healthier lifestyle."
Martyn Parker, Co-Headteacher, explained:
"Charters School is proud of our productive and
enriching links with the local and wider community
but, by adding Linda and Alan’s expertise to our
Development Team, we now have the capacity to
do even more in this area in the future."
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Outstanding success at Coworth Flexlands
Coworth Flexlands is a small independent
preparatory school that is co-educational from
Nursery to Year 2, with girls only from Years 3 to 6.
The school prides itself on excellent academic
results. Coworth Flexlands' boys attain places at
top prep schools and the girls secure the senior
school of their choice at 11 years with many
achieving recognition of excellence – in 2014 over
half the Year 6 girls won a Scholarship or Award.
Coworth Flexlands believes its outstanding
success is borne out of dedication to a caring,
stimulating and happy environment. As a small
school, each pupil is treated as an individual.
Through a safe, nurturing environment, with
a strong Christian ethos, Coworth Flexlands
promotes each child’s educational and pastoral
needs.
With specialist subject teachers throughout the
school, and small class sizes, Coworth Flexlands
ensures an inspiring approach from experts
who are able to track every child’s progress,
contributing to high achievement in academics,
music, creative and performing arts.
Coworth Flexlands, near Chobham, sits in over
13 acres. The Early Years have the opportunity to
become outdoor explorers and the older children
to succeed in sport.
Coworth Flexlands is committed to developing
independent, confident, creative thinkers who
will continue to make significant contributions as
future world citizens.
For information please contact
Sally Condie on 01276 855707
Valley End, Chobham, GU24 8TE
www.coworthflexlands.co.uk
11
Developing skills for future success
Access to the virtual world can be an effective
educational tool, and TASIS The American School
in England uses technology across its curriculum
to enhance classroom learning.
From the interactive learning wall and 3D
printer in the school’s new Centre for Innovation,
Inspiration, and Exploration, to the touch tables
used in the Kindergarten, students of all ages
regularly harness the power of technology.
“It’s more than just encouraging academic
ability, it’s about nurturing potential,” says
Headmaster Michael McBrien. “Being able to
offer the most advanced classroom facilities and
equipment helps us to do that.”
Small classes and an experienced faculty provide
highly individualised attention, encouragement,
and challenge. TASIS students thrive in an
atmosphere that celebrates the school’s
international population and encourages the
ability to understand multiple perspectives.
Academics are balanced by participation in a
broad range of activities. The school’s focus on
character development, communication skills,
and the ability to challenge thinking produces
rounded, confident, high-achieving students.
In addition to a forward-thinking, broadbased American curriculum, TASIS offers the
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma to
qualified post-GCSE students. TASIS graduates
gain acceptance to prestigious universities in the
UK, the US, and worldwide.
See www.tasisengland.org for more information
12 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Luxury family living from Bewley Homes in South Ascot
Set within perfectly manicured gated grounds,
Glenmead and Byways are situated in one of
the most desirable residential roads in Ascot,
consisting of large architecturally varied family
homes in generous plots.
This is a prime part of the capital city's
commuterland where large houses are
routinely demolished to make way for even
larger houses. Where one home with tennis
court once stood on the south eastern side of
Friary Road adjoining the junction with Monks
Walk, Glenmead and Byways now stand in
all their splendid Georgian-featured modern
glory.
The area is very well known for its variety and
quality of schooling facilities, with Friary Road
falling within the catchment of Charters Sports
and Science college and private schools such as
The Marist, Coworth Flexlands and TASIS all
nearby. St Francis Catholic Primary School sits
directly opposite Glenmead and Byways.
While tucked away off the main road in a
woodland setting, Glenmead and Byways are
within strolling distance of South Ascot shops
and Ascot railway station is just 1 mile away.
Step inside Byways to a large hallway
providing access to all the ground floor's main
rooms, including a large study, drawing room,
family room and kitchen perfectly styled with
ornate mouldings, high skirting boards and
deep sash windows.
The kitchen and orangery - which features
large bi-folidng doors to the garden - is perfect
for family life. The tidy landscape garden
features mature shrubs and trees and has the
added bonus of a secret garden planted with
spring bulbs.
Spacious bedrooms 5, 6 and games room are
all on the second floor.
There's even a large area up there where the
whole house ventilation system sits, that's
perfect for storage.
Glenmead and Byways have under floor
heating to all floors, fully fitted security
alarm systems, CAT 5E wiring - and stunning
chandeliers in the entrance hallways.
These properties are on the market at a
guide price of £4.25 million. Contact Richard
Cracknell at Edwards & Elliott 01344 623411.
The kitchen features bespoke Charles Rennie
Mackintosh painted in-frame shaker kitchen
with composite stone worktops and upstands.
The chef of the house can perform their
magic on stainless steel finished appliances
consisting of a Falcon Range Cooker and
extractor hood, Miele multi-function Pyrolytic
oven, steam oven, warming drawers and an
integrated microwave combination oven.
Other appliances include two fridge/freezers,
wine cooler, coffee machine and Quooker
boiling water tap. For the chief bottle washer
there's an integrated dishwasher.
Inside a large utility room / boot room there's
a Miele washing machine, condensing tumble
dryer and water softener.
On the opposite side of the room a door leads
to what must be one of the most stunning
guest/staff suites we've ever seen, comprising
a bed sitting room, en-suite and kitchenette.
Back out in the entrance hallway, a sweeping
staircase with architectural black decorative
metal balustrade and chrome handrail leads
the way to four bedrooms on the first floor.
The master bedroom features a large dressing
room, ensuite and access to a balcony.
LAST TWO REMAINING
Surpassing
all expectations
Ascot, one of the world’s most exclusive addresses.
Enter Montrose and Kingsland Court and you’ll be in
no doubt. A short walk to the vibrant high street, this is
gracious living on a grand scale. These individually crafted
apartments of distinction offer a lifestyle that simply
surpasses all expectations.
Large 2 bedroom apartments • Secure under croft
parking with lift access • All have south facing patio garden
or balcony • Close to Ascot Racecourse • Easy access to
Heathrow Airport, M3, M25 and M4
LONDON ROAD | ASCOT | BERKSHIRE | SL5 7EQ
Price guide: £895,000 to £975,000
Call 01344 623 662
Email [email protected]
or visit www.bewley.co.uk
Land & New Homes
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
NO STAMP DUTY
Surpassing all expectations.
'LENMEADAND"YWAYSTWOOFTHEMOSTELEGANTGATEDPROPERTIESINTHEAFmUENT
village of Ascot. Substantial in their size, exquisite in their style. This is the ultimate
in sophisticated living.
3IXBEDROOMHOMESs)NTERNALSTUDIOmATs4RIPLEGARAGEs3UBSTANTIALLANDSCAPEDGARDENS
Swift access to the M25 and M4 • Sunningdale and Wentworth Golf courses nearby
FRIARY ROAD | ASCOT | BERKSHIRE | SL5 9HD
Price: £4,250,000
Email: [email protected]
Viewing by Appointment Only
Please contact Edwards & Elliott
Phone: 01344 623411
13
14 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Sunningdale
£1,975,000
An imposing & highly spacious detached family home enjoying lovely grounds of approximately
three quarters of an acre, set in a very popular location.
Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Four Reception Rooms, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Conservatory, Utility Room, Two
Bedroom Suites plus Two Further Double Bedrooms & Bathroom, Second Floor Double Bedroom with Dressing
Room, Shower Room and Sitting Room, Triple Garage with Annexe Over, Gated In & Out Drive.
EPC- D60.
Thorpe Green
£950,000
An exceptional newly refurbished home providing over 2,000 square feet of living
accommodation, occupying a private plot of approximately 0.4 acres.
Reception Hall, Sitting Room, Kitchen/Breakfast/Family Room, Master Bedroom with En Suite Shower
Room, Three Further Double Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, Utility Room, Driveway accessed via
Electronically Operated Gates, Large Private Mature Garden, Summerhouse.
EPC- C75.
Virginia Water
£750,000
An attractive and immaculately presented detached family home enjoying private
mature gardens, situated in a highly popular residential road.
Entrance Hall, Cloakroom, Kitchen/Breakfast Room open to Dining Room/Drawing Room, Conservatory,
Family/Games Room, Master Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room, Three Further Bedrooms, Family
Bathroom, Single Garage, Off Street Parking, Private Rear Gardens.
EPC- D62.
01344 845050
6 Station Approach, Virginia Water
Surrey GU25 4DL
buckinghams.com
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Wentworth Estate
15
£3,795,000
A beautifully appointed brand new Runnymede Homes built residence offering exceptional accommodation over three storeys, with grounds approaching
half an acre in a lovely tree lined setting.
Grand Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Study, Kitchen/Breakfast Room open to Family Room, Utility Room, Stunning Master Bedroom Suite with Sitting Room,
Dressing Area and Excellent Bath & Shower Room, Four Further Bedroom Suites, Au Pair Suite above Double Garage.
EPC- B83.
Wentworth Estate
£3,950,000
A stunning brand new three storey residence having been completed to an excellent specification and finish, situated conveniently close to the heart of
Virginia Water village.
Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Study, Wonderful Kitchen/Breakfast/Family Room, Utility with 2nd Cloakroom, Exquisite Master Bedroom Suite, Five Further Bedroom Suites,
Top Floor Laundry Room, Double Garage with Annexe Suite over, Easterly facing Gardens of approaching Half an Acre.
EPC-C80.
01344 845050
6 Station Approach, Virginia Water
Surrey GU25 4DL
buckinghams.com
16 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Wentworth Estate
£4,600,000
A brand new Georgian style residence built by award winning developer Bridgewater New Homes Ltd, offering superbly finished accommodation and
enjoying landscaped South Westerly facing grounds of one acre.
Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Study, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast/Family Room, Cinema Room, Sitting Room & Games Room opening out to Private Courtyard, Utility Room,
Four Full Bedroom Suites plus large Guest/Staff Bedroom Suite, Detached Triple Garage.
EPC- B82.
Sunninghill
Guide £3,000,000
An intelligently designed and extremely spacious brand new home constructed by the highly regarded developers Belvedere, enjoying South Westerly
facing rear gardens in a superb private road location.
Grand Reception Hall, Cloakroom, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Study, Kitchen/Breakfast Room open to Family Room, Utility Room, Boot Room & 2nd Cloakroom, Four Full Bedroom Suites,
Fifth Double Bedroom, Media Room/Bedroom Six, Bath/Shower Room, Annexe/Games Room over Double Garage.
EPC- B87.
01344 845050
6 Station Approach, Virginia Water
Surrey GU25 4DL
buckinghams.com
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
Wentworth Estate
17
£6,500,000
An imposing Tarrant built home providing superb family accommodation & enjoying wonderful private grounds approaching two acres
in an excellent location.
Grand Reception Hall leading to Library Area, Cloakroom, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Family/Cinema Room, Study, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Utility Room, Master Bedroom Suite with Spacious Bathroom,
Two Dressing Rooms & Balcony, Guest Bedroom Suite with Balcony, Four Further Bedrooms (Three En Suite), Shower Room, Detached Single Storey One Bedroom Annexe, Triple Garage.
EPC- D68.
Wentworth Estate
£6,000,000
A truly unique bespoke residence constructed in a 17th Century farmhouse style using reclaimed materials, complemented by beautifully manicured
grounds in excess of one and a quarter acres and enjoying panoramic views across Wentworth Golf Course.
Grand Reception Hall with Vaulted Ceiling, Cloakroom, Triple Aspect Drawing Room, Dining Room, Study/Library, Superb Open Plan Kitchen/Breakfast/Family Room, Conservatory, Utility Room, Master Bedroom Suite
with Balcony, Two Guest Suites, Two Further Bedrooms, Bathroom, Triple Garage with large Annexe over, Landscaped South Easterly Facing Grounds, Direct Access Onto Wentworth Golf Course.
EPC- D65.
01344 845050
6 Station Approach, Virginia Water
Surrey GU25 4DL
buckinghams.com
18 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Residential Sales & Lettings
A G E N T S
O
PE
N
H
O
U
SE
E S T A T E
7 High Street, Ascot,
Berkshire, SL5 7JF
t: 01344 876666
e: [email protected]
[email protected]
w: www.carr.co.uk
SOUTH ASCOT £368,000
JENNETTS PARK £475,000
WINKFIELD VILLAGE £825,000
A superbly presented modernised and extended three bedroom
family home with beautiful Applewood kitchen/breakfast room
within excellent school catchment and mainline station.
Tel 01344 876666
OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 31ST JANUARY 12pm – 1.00 pm
A well presented four bedroom three storey detached home set within
this sought after development close to excellent primary school.
Tel 01344 876666
A superbly presented and well proportioned four bedroom detached
home with modern kitchen/breakfast room. Three/four reception rooms,
enclosed southerly aspect gardens great school catchments. Band C.
Tel 01344 876666
TO
LE
T
TO
TO
LE
T
ASCOT £990,000
Detached family home in exclusive residential road within excellent school
catchments and with potential to enlarge and improve the accommodation
and driveway. Offered with vacant possession.
Tel 01344 876666
LE
T
ASC0T £650,000
A well presented and modernised four bedroom detached home having been
extended to offer superb ground floor family accommodation. Set in this
private quiet cul-de-sac. Band D.
Tel 01344 876666
SUNNINGHILL £1,395 PCM
SOUTH ASCOT £1,500 PCM
ASCOT £1,900 PCM
A 2 double bedroom 2 bathroom apartment with re-fitted kitchen.
Set in communal grounds with garage & parking in the heart of
Sunninghill. Available part furnished 17th February.
Tel 01344 876666
A 3 bedroom 2 reception semi detached home with bath & shower
rooms, kitchen & utility room. Driveway parking and enclosed rear
garden. Available furnished 1st February.
Tel 01344 876666
A 4 bedroom 2 reception/2 bathroom detached property with kitchen/
diner with bi-fold doors leading to garden. Set in this small quiet
cul-de-sac near local schools. Available immediately unfurnished.
Tel 01344 8876666
Hugh Williams
Alan Carr
Connor Osborough
Lynda Campling
01344 876666
Pat Howard
Debbie Lewis
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
19
Wentworth Estate £10,950 pcm
A magnificent house of about 6,500 sq ft on the
renowned Wentworth Estate just a short walk from the
varied local shops, restaurants and railway station.
Fitted with a mixture of wood flooring, ceramic tiling
and high quality carpets as well as lavishly appointed
interior designed curtains / blinds.
EPC Rating D65.
7
beds
Virginia Water
5
baths
6
2
receptions garage
0.6
acres
£5,600 pcm
A superb end of terrace town house on this luxury
development with 24 hour security and fabulous
leisure facilities for the sole use of the residents and
their guests including an indoor swimming pool,
jacuzzi, sauna and gym as well as two outdoor tennis
court. Refurbished to include a new kitchen/breakfast
room, new bathrooms and carpets. EPC Rating: D63.
5
beds
swimming
pool
3
baths
gym
4
receptions
2
garage
Virginia Water
£3,500 pcm
Situated in a most convenient position, a few
hundred yards from the pretty shopping parades of
Virginia Water with its excellent shops for day to day
needs, restaurants and mainline railway station with
a fast service of trains to Waterloo in 42 minutes.
Available for a 6 month rental. EPC Rating: D68.
4
beds
2
baths
6
2
receptions garage
0.33
acre approx
The Estate Office - Wentworth - Virginia Water - Surrey - GU25 4DL. UK
T: +44(0)1344 843000 - W: bartonwyatt.co.uk
20 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Tel: 01372 471111
Email: [email protected]
CLAYGATE
£625,000
Web: www.catco.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
CLAYGATE
£710,000
Rarely available; an immaculately presented ground floor luxury apartment with
two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property has the advantage of it’s own
private garden and 2 private parking spaces. Situated in this sought after location
within easy reach of Claygate’s shops and railway station.
A beautifully presented and deceptively spacious three bedroom character cottage
approximately half a mile from the station. Fabulous open plan kitchen/family area
with bi-fold doors leading onto a superb West facing garden. Must be seen!
CLAYGATE
HINCHLEY WOOD
£600,000
£1,295,000
Traditional semi detached home located in this favoured road offering excellent
extension potential subject to the usual consents. The property benefits from three
bedrooms and good size rear garden. Viewing recommended!
Fabulous family home with excellent well planned family accommodation
imaginatively designed with a wonderful rear garden. Conveniently situated for all
of the amenities of Hinchley Wood. Early viewing recommended!
CLAYGATE
CLAYGATE
£449,000
Superb 3 bedroom family home located opposite a central green and offering well
planned accommodation which is very well presented throughout. Excellent rear
garden and to the front off street parking. Internal viewing highly recommended!
£2,650 PCM
A very spacious four bedroom detached house with a lovely south facing garden
ideally located in this small select cul-de-sac literally within a few minute’s walk of
the village, K3 bus route and main line station. Available immediately.
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN
CLAYGATE
Situated in one of the most
popular roads in Claygate is this
beautiful detached family home
of approximately 2788 sq ft.
This fantastic home is ideally
situated for local schools, the
village centre, and Claygate train
station giving access to London
Waterloo.
Energy rating C.
MASTER BEDROOM WITH
EN SUITE, 4 FURTHER
BEDROOMS, 3 RECEPTION
ROOMS, BATHROOM,
KITCHEN, GARAGE, GARDEN
21
C
LD
ST
SO
Guide Price: £1,350,000
CLAYGATE
Old Point is an attractive and
substantial, five bedroom, two
bathroom, traditional tile hung
detached family home enviably
located in the heart of the
Ruxley Heights estate. Ruxley
Heights is perfectly located in
the charming Surrey village of
Claygate with its fine variety of
local shops and main line station
offering fast and frequent links to
London Waterloo.
Energy rating D.
MASTER BEDROOM WITH
DRESSING ROOM AND
EN SUITE, 4 FURTHER
BEDROOMS, BATHROOM,
2 RECEPTION ROOMS,
KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM,
2 UTILITY ROOMS, STUDY,
CONSERVATORY, GARAGE,
GARDEN.
E
R
FO
L
A
S
Guide Price: £1,350,000
There is a lack of property currently available and we have applicants looking across all price ranges. Call us now for a confidential market appraisal to discuss this further.
Doug Parks
Branch Manager
ESHER 01372 462211 [email protected]
www.johndwood.co.uk
22 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
Tarragon Chicken
Poach the chicken pieces in a roasting tray,
covered with water, few lemon wedges and a
pinch of salt.
Oven at 160c, this will probably take 30mins or
so. Remove to a plate to cool, and then put into
the fridge to chill.
Allow the chicken to get cold before taking from
the fridge and slicing quite thinly.
This is a really delicious dish which is quick to
prepare. Hope you enjoy.
YOU WILL NEED
Serves 4 - 6 People
4 skinless chicken fillets
1 pack fresh tarragon
1 200g jar Hellmann’s mayonnaise
1 medium pot sour cream
About 6 sun-dried tomatoes sliced thinly
Seasoning
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 lemon for poaching chicken
The sauce is very easy simple beat the sour cream
into the mayonnaise to a smooth mixture, add the
zest and juice of a lemon. Chop the tarragon quite
finely and add to the sauce along with seasoning
to taste.
Now mix the chicken into the sauce and turn out
onto your favourite serving plate. Finally decorate
with the strips of sundried tomato.
Lovely with a green salad and new potatoes with
chopped mint.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
When she’s not writing, Elizabeth runs her own
catering business. She has also set up an initiative
with volunteers who help feed patients at Kingston
Hospital at meal times.
Looking for something
NICE FOR
MUM
this Mother’s Day?
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St Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, celebrated
for centuries on 14 February each year in spite
of there being no clear single identity for him or
striking reason why he has become associated quite
so completely with romantic love. Nevertheless, the
name Valentine is very much associated with hearts
and flowers and all things pertaining to lovers and
his Feast day is documented as being so connected
as far back as the late 1300s when Chaucer made
reference to St Valentine’s day in his poem The
Parliament of Fowls; the birds of the air gather on
this particular day in this particular poem to plead
for and choose their mates (some, it must be said,
more successfully than others).
Modern day St Valentine sentiment may be
considered to have become a little formulaic
and lacking in imagination. There is attached to
Valentine’s day, as with so many other religious days
of observance, a bit of an industry, and cards and gifts
may tend toward the cheesy and the more general
rather than the personal. An anonymous card sent to
the object of one’s affection may suffice for the young
and the young at heart but, assuming that, like me,
you are past the stage of furtive cards and mystery
admirers, how best might one push the boat out and
show that you care this St Valentine’s Feast?
You could book a table at a restaurant and let
someone else do the cooking. You will, of course, have
to sit with other Valentine couples trying hard to find a
little personal romantic space in a public setting, and
you will probably need to have planned well ahead good restaurants will be busy - but there is no doubt
that good food cooked by an expert can be a treat.
But to avoid the cliché, not to mention the slight
awkwardness of attempting romance against all the
odds in a crowded room, you could stay home instead
and cook for your beloved. It is probably best to Invest
in something a little special ingredient-wise, chill a
bottle of bubbles, with no need to worry about who is
going to be noble and drive home afterwards, and do
make a dessert. I would avoid, however, going in for
anything that is going to take hours of work or likely
to be in any way a disappointment in terms of reaction
gained against time spent or from over ambitious
menu planning.
As the old dictum has it “Faites Simple”. While a
little luxury is unlikely to go amiss and pains should
be taken to avoid the humdrum for this particular
week night supper, this doesn’t have to mean a multicoursed extravaganza either. Choose what you will, a
good steak or something roasted if you like, but some
shellfish I think would be perfect; lobster, perhaps,
if your wallet runs to it, but, if not maybe some clams
or prawns. Mixing any of these with a little pasta will
stretch them to a filling supper with a touch of the
exotic about them and they couldn’t be easier or faster
to cook.
Clams require scrubbing when you bring them
home, individually, under clear, cool, running water;
any open ones that don’t close up when they are tapped
should be discarded before cooking, and conversely,
any that don’t open up when cooked should be
discarded after. Once washed, leave them covered
with a cool damp cloth (or newspaper) in a cool place
(the salad compartment of the fridge is probably best)
until you are ready to cook them.
When you are ready to eat, place a large pan of water
on to boil for the pasta (linguine or spaghetti would
be good), and, when it is boiling, salt it well. In the
meantime, heat a wide, shallow, heavy-based pan, one
for which you have a lid and one in which the clams
will sit comfortably in one layer, add a little oil and a
clove or two of garlic, sliced or chopped, and, as soon
as the garlic starts to cook (and well before it starts to
burn) add a generous splash of white wine, and/or a
few diced, skinned and seeded fresh tomatoes. When,
all is good and hot, throw in the clams, clamp on the lid
and time for about 3 minutes, cooking all the time over
a fairly high heat and shaking the pan a couple of times
during cooking.
Check after 3 minutes and, if the majority of the
clams are open wide and looking plumply ready, turn
off the heat, sprinkle the whole with some chopped
fresh parsley, check and adjust the seasoning (ie add
salt and/or ground black pepper to taste) and give
a quick stir. Leave, uncovered, to one side until the
pasta is done. If you are feeling perfectionistic, you can
remove about two thirds of the clams from their shells,
leaving a few with shells intact to look decorative, and
you can strain off the sauce and reduce it a little to
concentrate the flavour (before seasoning) but neither
step is strictly necessary.
While the clams are cooking, cook the pasta
according to the instructions on the packet but set your
timer for a minute less than those instructions say that
it will take to cook. When time is up (bar that minute),
test the pasta for doneness - it should retain a little
hardness at its core but be almost cooked through.
Remove the pasta from its boiling water (using tongs,
a spaghetti fork or a large slotted spoon or spider) and
put it into the pan with the clams; turn the heat back
on under the pan. Toss the pasta with the clams until it
is well coated with the sauce that the clams have given
off and serve immediately (sprinkled with a gesture of
olive oil and more chopped parsley if you like). From
start to finish, the whole thing can be made in just a
little longer than the time it has taken for you to cook
the pasta.
Lobster can be added to pasta in similar fashion; if
it is already cooked (as I am assuming is likely) you
can warm chopped lobster flesh (with or without
shell attached) with similar ingredients used as a base
to those that I have suggested for the clams (you will
not need a fiercely high heat this time - cooked lobster
requires only gentle warming, not further cooking).
You may want to soften some finely chopped fennel
in a pan and add a small splash of pastis and a scant
sprinkling of chopped tarragon as substitutes for the
garlic, white wine and parsley (allow the fennel to cook
gently until it is nice and soft before adding the lobster)
- these gently sweet aniseed flavours, if not overdone
and overpowering, can complement lobster very well.
Tomato gives additional colour and flavour, but is, as
for the clams, entirely optional.
Given that it is Valentine’s day, whether you choose
to stare doe-eyed at each other across a shared dish of
noodles, like that famous scene from Disney’s “Lady
and The Tramp”, is your affair entirely and I shall
not make any further suggestions except to say that I
would add a simple dessert - a crème brulée, a melting
chocolate fondant, or perhaps a pink tinged cake of
some sort - and to wish you all a Happy St Valentine’s
Day.
Erica x
www.acookinthekitchen.co.uk
www.acooksblog.com
“Spice a dish with love and it
pleases every palate” ~Plautus
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monthly
February 2015 LIVING WITHIN 23
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24 LIVING WITHIN February 2015
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