in magazine september 2012 issue 91
DESCRIPTION
Click to read iN Magazine's September Issue 91. 105,000* people read iN Magazine on a monthly basis: this number is made up of a celebrity mailing list, subscribers to the hard copy, our e-zine, website and copies which are distributed in west Essex. We cover Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Chigwell, Epping, Theydon Bois, Wanstead, Woodford, Chingford, Brentwood, Emerson Park, Hornchurch and Shenfield as well as being delivered to gated complexes such as Repton Park.iN can also be found in the bedrooms of all major hotels, lobbies of local restaurants, cafes such as a Belgique, spas, hairdressing salons, fashion boutiques and private health and golf clubs; plus we distribute exclusively to David Lloyd, Chigwell. iN is also hand distributed on the first Tuesday of the month at Loughton Central Line Station.TRANSCRIPT
What’s On • Property • Interiors • Beauty • Fashion • Events • Competitions
SEPTE
MBER 2012 W
WW.IN
-MAGAZINE.COM
YOUR ESSEX
DIARY
I’M FREE - ISSUE 91
A-ZOF ESSEX
iN ESSEXLocal Events & NEWS
RANGE ROVER
IGCSEEducation
FASHIONYour Autumn
WARDROBE
Motoring
ECO-FRIENDLY
LIVING
GCSE v
SPECIALProperty
06 What’s On GuideDates For Your September Diary
08 GCSE V IGCSE Sue Lovett Talks Education
13 Epping FestivalEpping Celebrates
14 A-Z Of EssexYour Guide Of Essex
21 Happy BirthdayPure Medi-Spa’s 4th Birthday
23 Poetic PromiseTed Baker’s Autumn Collection
29 Beauty With BettinaParis Glam V Jungle Chic
31 Ed Shaerf ’s RecipeSmoked Salmon With Keta Caviar
32 Purple ThaiNew Restaurant Launch
38 iN MotoringThe New Range Rover
40 Eco-Friendly LivingWith Oliver Heath
43 iN CompetitionNational Home Improvements Show
50 iN ProfileKISS FM’s Charlie Hedges
When you have finished reading this magazine, help the environment and please recycle.
eptember is my favourite month of the year.The kids are back to school and after someserious exertion, my house is finely orderly. I am gingerly filling my diary with girly lunch dates, and a much needed beauty
treatment. For me, the summer holidays is farfrom a holiday. Juggling work commitments and
children's activities has been exhausting!
So for September, I am concentrating on my pat-on-the-back, well-done-to-me present. Call it a bonus, the bonus obviously being that itis from me, for all my hard work this summer; which ensures I amgoing to love it and I won’t need to wear my ‘I love it but really hate it’smile, as it’s a gift from me, to me, for all my hard work this summer.You can partake too in a little guilt free purchase, you deserve it. Thereis no-one else who will praise the work us Mums do, better than youor I, so seize this September moment whilst it’s here.
iN Magazine is bumper this month with a plethora of restaurants todine at, places to visit, beauty treatments to book and shops tosample. This month’s Autumnal flavour, front cover and fashion pages23-27, is thanks to Ted Baker. On page 50, Clare McDonald gets up-front and personal with Kiss FM DJ Charlie Hedges. We have our A-Zof Essex, with some of the best businesses our region has to offer.Don’t miss our ticket give a way for The National Home ImprovementShow on page 43 and Oliver Heath, BBC Changing Rooms, gives ushis top tips to creating an eco-friendly living and reducing house holdbills along the way.
So what to do next? Sit back and take a break. Flick through ourpages, seize the moment and make that booking.
PS. Make sure to spread the love and quote iN Magazine!
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50www.facebook.com/inmagazine.essex
www.twitter.com/iNMagazineTweet
Front Cover: Courtesy of Ted Baker
Whilst on the topic ofparaben-free, this box of joylanded on my desk fromForever Living; perfect for thechange in weather. Aloe Fleurde Jouvence comes in a six-part collection, being natural issuitable for sensitive skin, forall ages and containseverything from Aloe cleanserto recovering night creme. Go on, treat yourself, £89.03.www.forevershopnow.com
Zoe Hopkins - Tweet: @zoehopkinsiNMag
My tan is fading, eek! All is not lost, givethanks to Strip in Loughton. Their TahitianTan Mist, retailing at £20 not only includesall the vitamins a girls skin could need,applies in a fine mist, is paraben-free andwater based (so didn’t clog my pores). And lasted a whole six days, thumbs up for this tan in a bottle.Strip, 285 High Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 1AH T. 020 3544 9600.
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To advertise your business call: 020 8504 77794 inMAGAZINE
September 2012 - Issue 91iN Magazine
Suite B2A East Wing, Sterling House, Langston RoadLoughton, Essex, IG10 3TS
T. 020 8504 7779
Publishing Director & Editor - Zoe [email protected]
Fashion Editor - Rose [email protected]
Beauty Editor - Bettina [email protected] / @BeautySwot
Art Director - Ashleigh [email protected]
Advertising Sales Executive - Emma MorrisT: 020 8504 7779
Advertising Sales Executive - Scott ShearT: 07545 339 800
Senior Writer - Sue [email protected]
Motoring Correspondent - Russell [email protected]
Designer - Rob [email protected]
Accounts - Paul [email protected]
SubscriptionsSubscribe and receive all iN Magazine news, the E-Zine and offers.
www.in-magazine.com/subscribe
WordsLB Group, Clare McDonald,
PURE Medi-Spa, Ed Shaerf, Oliver Heath
PhotographySnappedout.com
www.in-magazine.comAll rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not
necessarily those shared with the publisher. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising oreditorial and cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions,
manuscripts and photographs. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher.
BETTINA HUNT - I studied Law at Universitybut my true passion has always been in thecosmetics industry. Whilst on maternity leave Iseized the opportunity to change my directionand follow my dream of being a beauty writer. I have written for Tesco Magazine and MyDailyand now the glorious iN. If I am not down amake-up aisle, you will usually find me enjoyingafternoon tea or sipping cocktails! You can readmore about me at www.beautyswot.com
Contributor
6 inMAGAZINE
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bout now, a new batch of apprehensive Year 11’s arepreparing for the important year that stretches beforethem. What lies ahead is a year of challenge and hard work that will shape their future.
How hard it must be when, finding a bit of free timefrom the slog, they are bombarded with stories in thepress and on TV of how easy it has all become fortoday’s fifteen and sixteen-year-olds to obtain top
grades in GCSEs. As a consequence the exams they are sweating over and swatting for are said by many to be worthless and are to bescrapped. What a motivational message that is for our young as theybegin their preparations.
Is it that the examinations have become easier? Or is it that they havebecome easier to pass? Figures indicate that pupils are being betterprepared: the proportion of A/A* grades has tripled from 8.6% in 1988 to 23.2% today.
Michael Gove, the Education Secretary, who proposes replacing the current GCSEs with a two-tier system of ‘explicitly harder’ exams,more akin to O-Levels and CSEs, says,
‘The problem is that instead of sitting every part of a
GCSE at the end of a course, bits are taken along the way.
These bits can be resat. Instead of concentrating on
teaching and learning, pupils are being trained again-and-
again to clear the hurdle of examinations along the way.
I think this is a mistake, I think the culture of resits is wrong.
It means that less time is being spent developing a deep
and rounded knowledge of the subject.’
Shortly after taking office, Mr Gove began his assault on the GCSE system by ending this modular element. Current Year 11 pupils will have been the last to have the option to resit sections during thecourse. But Mr Gove, along with many others in education favourfurther reform. Mr Ian Davies Headmaster of Brentwood School, anindependent school renowned for its high academic results, believes Mr Gove’s plans to overhaul the GCSE system is right. He says,
‘We support Michael Gove and the Government’s proposals
to improve the rigour and depth of subject knowledge.
We identified some time ago that, in many subjects, the
GCSE just does not provide a firm enough foundation of
knowledge and understanding for students starting in
the Sixth Form.’
As a consequence in 2009 the school moved to the more difficultInternational GCSE (IGCSE) in science subjects, because of the
SUE LOVETT TALKS GCSES V IGCSES
8 inMAGAZINE
concerns in the lack of academic rigour in the GCSE course. This September the school will extend its IGCSE qualifications toEnglish, Maths, Computing and some modern languages.
The IGCSE system is similar to the old O-levels in that subjects arestudied over two years with examinations sat at the end of the course.Whilst exact details of Mr Gove’s new proposals are not known, a cleartimetable for change is in place so that by the summer of 2016 all pupilswill sit the new exams in all subjects. Another important change is thatunder the new system there will be one exam board for each subject, so ending the temptation for schools sign up for exam boards seen aseasier.
Ironically, it was a Tory Government that abolished the old O-level, CSE examination system back in the 1980’s, saying that theintroduction of GCSEs would see standards rise for all. However,internationally the UK does not currently fare brilliantly. According to the world education rankings from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), British fifteen-year-olds rank20th for reading, 22nd for maths and 11th for science – and theseresults have fallen in all three areas since 2006. The list is topped bySouth Korea, Finland and Canada.
Critics of Mr Gove’s proposals question why a two-tier educationsystem that failed youngsters in the past should be thought to be abetter way forward now. Stephen Twigg, the Shadow EducationSecretary says,
‘Michael Gove must explain his changes to parents and
pupils. Will going back to O-levels for some and CSEs for the
rest really improve standards for all?’
The opposition stress that what is needed is a robust, rigorous andbroad curriculum and exam system that is trusted by parents, pupils and employers.
That the current system isn’t working is universally agreed, but whetherthe proposed changes, which have been tried in a similar shape before,will improve standards is a matter of hot debate. Call the revampedsystem what you will, it seems that the likelihood for students of thenext decade is that they will be following the Almighty Gove down O-level alley.
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ADVERTORIAL
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Launches & Events
THE EPPING FESTIVAL
Epping celebrated its first festival, a day of fun and laughter was had by all who attendedthe historical market town. The heavens may
have opened, but this did not dampen thespirit of the many people and business owners
who all ventured out in celebration.
The day saw market stalls by local craftspeople,dancers, singers, artists and street food. And as
the fire station opened their doors, the rainstopped and the sun shone, just in time for theFire Brigades show stopping ‘Fire Engine Pull’through the high street. The Epping Society,celebrating their 40th anniversary, shared a
giant birthday cake with residents and businessowners alike. Epping bookshop painted
children's faces as they told stories; there wereBBQ's and live music at several bars and
restaurants along the high street.
St John’s Church and the civic offices both held exhibitions as did the British Legion.
The most popular act was ‘Funky Voices’, whoperformed live.
‘We are thrilled that the day has been such asuccess and so warmly welcomed by our localresidents. There have been many calls to holdthis event every year. The wonderful thing is
that there are no gimmicks, it’s just everyone inthe community coming together, doing the things
that they do best and enjoying it!’ Rekha Patel, Clock Tower restaurant
owner enthusted.
Same time next year then!
THE EPPINGFESTIVAL
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Each month we catch up with Mr Lake from the LB Groupand ask him to answer yourbusiness related questions.
If you have an accountancy related question that youwould like LB Group to answer in a forthcoming issue,please email [email protected].
Trevor Lake, a Director, can be contacted by telephone on 020 8221 8282 or by email at [email protected]
This article is designed for the information of the reader and while every effort is made to ensure accuracy, informationcontained in this article may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professionaladvice. LB Group is registered to carry out Audit work by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
www.lbgroupltd.com
“My company has grown fast and we keep good financial records. My accountant prepares accurate quarterly management accounts but I struggle to find them useful to use to run the business. I am not really a numbers man. Is there anything I can do to get better information to run my business?Maximilian Sparks, Chingford
It is a common fault that financial information provided by your accountant includes a lot of information but does not prioritise the presentation i.e. what are the headlines.
The information presented also commonly focuses on what you havedone rather than what is coming up and is often delivered too late to aid the decisions made by management. Whilst it is important to keepaccurate financial records to run a business it is not necessarily theinformation required by the management of the business.
Most businesses have four or five measures that can quickly informmanagement of how the business is performing and what it should bedoing in the future. These key profits indicators (commonly referred to as KPI’s) are effectively headlines of the financial information prepared.Each business will have its own priorities depending on the industry and business model.
For example, a company that is involved in installation projects will needgood information on what is in the ‘pipeline’ of works won and booked in to be carried out. Of this pipeline they would want to know what theexpected profit is due to be on the work booked in. They would also want to know the volume and potential size of the tenders coming up past this point to ensure he level of trade continues. It is likely that thisinformation needs to be monitored weekly or monthly rather than thedefault quarterly. For this example business if these KPI’s are monitoredregularly then management will have a firm grip on the business.
To develop what your business’ Key Profit Indicators are, it is useful tothink about risk. If you can note down what the biggest commercial risksare to your business, and then think about how these can be measuredand monitored, then you can quickly develop the information required tokeep firm control on your business without being lost in financialinformation.
To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
TAXINGISSUES
“
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Launches & EventsHAPPY BIRTHDAYPURE MEDI-SPA
To mark PURE Medi-Spa’s 4th Birthday, Dr Shazia Siddiqi and the employees of
PURE Medi-Spa played host to their loyalcustomers and celebrity following at an
evening party to mark their birthday andnew price list, incorporating beauty and
aesthetic procedures.
As champagne flowed, and guests mingledPURE Medi-Spa offered complementarytreatments and information about skincare
to their loyal following. Many of thecelebrities taking part in the launch tookadvantage of the latest treatment in skin
analysis, the Beau Visage machine. This unique piece of equipment allowed
Dr Siddiqi to take a sneak-peek underneaththeir skin, allowing the Doctor to prescribe a bespoke beauty regime, unique to each
individual, involving various treatments andbeauty products, to keep the clients skin
looking fresh, youthful and flawless.
Celebrities in attendance were CamillaDallerup from Strictly Come Dancing, Lydia
Bright & Lauren Goodger from TOWIE,Annie Cooper from Hollyoaks and
Danielle LLoyd.
The new price list includes the latesttreatments to the PURE Medi-Spa
repertoire including Thread Vein Removal‘Sclerotherapy’, Laser Lipo-suction,
High Definition Brows and the latest beauty collections.
The celebrations continued into the eveningfor all the PURE Medi-Spa team with ameal at Sheesh followed by a night out at
Sugar Hut.
9 Chigwell Road, South Woodford, E18 1LRwww.puremedispa.co.uk
T. 020 8989 1822
Pure Medi-Spa’s 4th Birthday Celebrations
Words by Clare McDonald inMAGAZINE 21To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
utumn carries anelement of sadness
in literature, inspiringmany a poet as the summer fades.However the chill that autumn bringsis more than made up for in thevibrant colours that surround us asthe trees start to lose their leaves. It’s a time when the true majesty ofnature is brought fourth and wediscover the elegance it holds within.Don’t clash with the autumncolours, embrace them and bringout your inner rustic beauty. There’sno need to hide away or hibernatelike a squirrel, in fact the lead up
to winter is the perfect timeto refresh your wardrobeand find the perfect outfitto warm up those coolerSeptember evenings.
Shudda Jacket £199Marinka Dress £179Rosalee Ring £39Jaxine Shoes £110Bag £79 www.tedbaker.com
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Cobalt Glasses £140Pasle Polo £65Lymnot Knit £89Pokant Jacket £250Gimjee Coat £275Poktro Trousers £99Skolday Bag £199Guri Boots £130
www.tedbaker.com
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Debinga Hat £40Punchd Jersey £85Jeans £120Shoes £130
www.tedbaker.com
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Bacall Collar £45Anegal Knit £99Risel Coat £229Dleita Shorts £99Cumari Bag £189Oaker Shoes £120 www.tedbaker.com
PURE Medi-Spa, 9 Chigwell Road, South Woodford, E18 1LRwww.puremedispa.co.ukT. 020 8989 1822
Dr Siddiqi:‘September seesthe sun settingon our holidays,and it is theperfect time to start skin
treatments for all thoseimperfections we struggle toconceal all year round.
For pigmentation and uneven skin tonethe new range of skin peels from IMAGESkincare involves a course of peels which mayconjure up visions of extreme makeover with faces peeling off, but at worst will leave you with dry skin for several days, beforerevealing more radiant skin as treatments progress. In conjunctionwith a prescribed skin care regime, deep scarring andpigmentation can be significantly reduced.
A Medical Dermaroller is an intensive treatment with incredibleresults. Not for the faint hearted, this treatment can be used as an alternative for those thinking about facelifts. The treatmentinduces extra elastin and collagen production under the skinhelping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and tightensand tones the face. The dermaroller can also be used onstretch marks and scarring anywhere on the body, or to treatthinning hair for men or women.
For something less intensive we recommend a course of our most popular facial, only available at PURE Medi-Spa this side of London. The Thermopeel involves a combination ofmicrodermabrasion for deep exfoliation followed by mesotherapy to introduce active ingredients under the skin, finished withradofrequency to lift and tighten face muscles. The perfectfacelift facial with results visible immediately.’
All procedures are carried out by Dr Siddiqi and her team,and start with an initial free consultation.
To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
iN READER OFFERCOURSE OF IMAGE SKIN
PEELS BASIC ORADVANCED 25% OFF
MEDICAL DERMAROLLERBUY 8 GET 2 FREE
FREE BACK MASSAGE WITH EVERY
THERMOPEEL FACIAL
September can be a dismalmonth with autumn settingin. The holidays are overand the sparkling confidence
your tan gave you starts tofade. But fear not, PURE Medi-
Spa has a host of treatments tokeep you feeling pampered, it
will be like your vacationnever ended.
Perfect SkinPURE MEDI-SPA’S
GUIDE TO...
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inBeauty with Bettina Hunt
With eyes and nails very much being thefocus this Autumn, your only decision iswhich of these equally stunning trends toembrace.
Dramatic, smokey eyes lined in deep anddecadent rich jewelled tones are analternative to the traditional smokey eye.Nails should be equally dark and vampish.
Use earthy shades of green or blendgorgeous khaki, brown and gold to
define the eyes. Apply similar colours onnails or a contrasting and wickedly
venomous red.
Urban Decay Smoked Eye Shadow Palette£35
www.hqhair.com
No7 Deco Darling Eye Palette
£10
www.boots.com
OPI Every Month Is Oktoberfest £11
www.lenawhite.co.uk
Estée Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer Blue Blood
£14.50 www.esteelauder.co.uk
Dior Golden Jungle Palette
£52
www.dior.com
Bourjois Vert Jungle Palette
£7.99
www.bourjois.co.uk
YSL La Laque Couture No32
Rouge Expressionniste £18 www.ysl.co.uk
Revlon Colorstay Longwear
Nail Enamel Rain Forest
£7.99
www.revlon.co.uk
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30 inMAGAZINE To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
in
INGREDIENTS:SERVES: 4
• 4 x 60g square cut organic salmon supremes• 65g salt• 85g demerera sugar• Zest of two limes• ½ cucumber• 1 Granny Smith apple• 1 tsp chopped dill• 2 tsp Keta caviar• 1 ruby grapefruit• 1 tbsp caster sugar• 2 egg yolks • 300ml clarified butter• 5 tbsp white wine vinegar• Applewood and oak smoke chips• 1 lemon• 1 tsp white peppercorns
- Served With Keta Caviar -METHOD:1. Combine the sugar, salt and lime zest, liberally dust a small tray with the mixture. Lay
the salmon on top then cover the tops of the fish with the remaining mixture. Cover with cling film and place in the fridge. The salmon needs to be cured for 24 hours. When the salmon is ready wash off the cure, pat dry and leave in the fridge.
2. Juice the grapefruit and strain through a sieve, place the liquid in a saucepan with 1tbspof sugar and reduce until you have a syrup. Taste the mixture as you go and if it remainstoo sharp add a little more sugar to reach the desired taste. Place the syrup in a bowl until ready to use. Tip: do not put in the fridge or it will become solid.
3. Make a small amount of lemon water for the cucumber and apple. Peel the apple and cucumber and use a Parisienne scoop to make small balls of both. Place in the lemon water to stop discolouration, wrap and place in the fridge.
4. Next make a small reduction of the vinegar, a few white peppercorns, half the juice of a lemon and reduce until you have about 1 tablespoon remaining. In a hot bowl on top of a saucepan of boiling water, beat together the 2 large egg yolks and the vinegar reduction and beat with a whisk until its doubled in volume. At the same time have clarified butter melting and keep at about blood temperature. Once you have achieved the volume with egg yolks gradually beat in the melted butter until the sauce thickens (Caution: don’t add too quickly or you will split the sauce and have to start again).
5. Season and then add the grapefruit syrup to taste. (Tip: aim to taste the acidity cutting through the richness of the hollandaise).
ASSEMBLE:1. Take the salmon from the fridge and leave to come up to room temperature. Drain off
the cucumber and apple. Place the salmon in the dish, spoon around the apple and cucumber, dot the hollandaise around and then neatly place a line of the Keta caviar across the salmon.
2. At One Blenheim Terrace we then use a smoke gun with the wood chip and smoke the dish before carefully placing a glass lid on top to capture the smoke inside.
ONE BLENHEIM TERRACEST JOHNS WOOD,LONDON NW8 OEH
BOOK ONLINE:oneblenheimterrace.co.ukor 020 7372 1722
TOP TIPGet the best when choosing a whole salmon.
Make sure the gills are very
red in colour and the eyes
must be clear and moist,
not cloudy. The fish should always be slimy to the touch.Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon is an
iconic starter firmly set
in the British cuisine.
It’s very versatile, and can
be enjoyed at any time of
the year. Both organic
and wild salmon are now
easily available and you can have fun with
this super healthy dish that never fails to
impress. For added theatre, we serve it at
One Blenheim Terrace in a smoke-filled glass
cloche, if you don’t smoke it yourself at home
you will still have a beautiful cured salmon
dish. Enjoy! Ed Shaerf, Head Chef.
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Launches & Events
SOUTH WOODFORDWELCOMES
PURPLE THAI -CONTEMPORARy
THAI CUISINEThe eagerly anticipated opening of South
Woodford's newest restaurant, Purple Thai,received a warm welcome from residents and
businesses alike on their opening night.
The restaurant owners Lee, Tony, Joanne andMel, aka ‘The Hall’s’, (although unrelated theyshare the same surname) sourced Thai nationalchef ’s, who cooked up a storm on the launch
night offering guests an unfussy, yetcontemporary menu, which included Gai PadKhing (Chicken and Ginger), Pad Thai Gung
(Fried Noodles with Prawn) and Gang Kiew-wan(Green Thai Curry).
Both Lee and Joanne Hall gather their variedexperience from a previous Thai venture based in
mainland Spain. The owners expanded theirvision to deliver a venue transformed into a
‘new world’ Thai space, enriched by its newlydesigned interior, cracked glass bar and
authentic Thai Buddha’s.
As diners were entertained by a fire dancer,passers by gathered to watch the performance as
she danced on the outside terrace.
Lee and Tony Hall were both enthused over theimpact Purple Thai is already having on thecommunity, adding 'Tonight has been about
saying thanks to all our followers, friends andfamily who have supported us in our new
venture. We aim to deliver a warm, invitingatmosphere, with impeccable service and a menu
that doesn't complicate or confuse.'
Purple Thai also benefits from a late licenseallowing diners to enjoy their Thai menu, bar and
music in equal measures, at the weekends. A VIP Booth can be booked for larger parties
or special occasions.
If you haven't booked already, do so now. Purple Thai is going to be 'the' restaurant choice
for East London and Essex.
17 ELECTRIC PARADE, GEORGELANE, SOUTH WOODFORD,
LONDON, E18 2Ly.RESERVATIONS: 020 3245 2054
www.purplethai.co.ukFaceBook: Purple Thai
SOUTH WOODFORD WELCOMES PURPLE THAI
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TOP DINING DESTINATIONSEditor’s Guide To...
THE BLUEBELL The Bluebell is located in the heart of Chigwell, Essex which opened tenyears ago and is housed within alovingly restored five-hundred-year-oldbuilding. A family run restaurant withthe kitchen led by Head Chef Gavin Maguire.
Serving the finest in modern British and European cuisine,
The Bluebell’s menu has trademarks of the previous one and two Michelin star restaurants that Chef Gavin has worked in, delivering a relaxedatmosphere and first class service, which did not disappoint on our visit.
The food was presented simply but with a hint of artistic flare. Not sacrificing quality over cost, the midweek and Sunday set lunchesare extremely good value and are sure to be a popular choice. A high quality menu which boasts fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant, which seats 30 in the front space (which is like home fromhome) and 70 in the back space is also featured in the ‘Good Food Guide2012’, being a popular restaurant they are also now taking bookings forChristmas.
TOP TIP: BOOK ‘TABLE ONE’, FOR UP TO SEVEN GUESTS.
117 HIGH ROAD, CHIGWELL, ESSEx, IG7 6QQ. RESERVATIONS: 020 8500 6282www.thebluebellrestaurant.co.uk
With the kids back at school, grab the moment to have an impromptu catch up with the girls. Our September’s top dining picks are sure to excite you...
Elche Tapas Bar and Restaurantis an authentic Spanish TapasBar and Restaurant situated inNorth Chingford. Paired withtwo restaurants in Barcelona,Elche have put great effort intothe authenticity of their dishes,and over all ‘holiday’ diningexperience. They certainly have
captured a little bit of Spain, with Elche’s lively atmosphere and variedTapas menu, which is also available for private hire.
The Lunch Special - two Tapas dishes with a glass of Sangria or wine isexceptional value at £7.95, served Mondays – Saturdays. Likewise the‘Dinner Special’ - three tapas dishes for £13.95, served Sundays -Thursdays, is also a good buy and perfect for capturing the true heart ofTapas. The restaurant is perfect for larger groups or for a meal for two,lunch or dinner, with the added bonus of a bar for pre or post diningdrinks. With their Spanish frontage, and traditional Spanish menu,steppinginto Elche left me with a warm feeling of sunny Spain.
TOP TIP: MACy’S, A TEN BEDROOMED HOTEL, ISLOCATED ABOVE THE RESTAURANT.
166 STATION ROAD, NORTH CHINGFORD, LONDON, E4 6AN. RESERVATIONS: 020 8524 8666. www.elcherestaurante.co.uk
ELCHE TAPAS BAR & RESTAURANT
To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
iN wants to hear from you: [email protected]
IN MAGAZINE... FIRST FORCELEBRITY GOSSIP, BUSINESSNEWS, LAUNCHES & EVENTSHAPPENING IN THE GOLDENTRIANGLE.
CELEBRITYFACES ATTHE HYDEHALLFLOWERSHOWThe Royal HorticulturalSociety Hyde Hall
Flower Show celebrated another successful event full of bright faces.Among those in attendance were eighteen year old shining star Zara Clatworthy, one of the dancers in the London 2012 OlympicOpening Ceremony. Nurseries exhibited floral displays givinggardeners inspiration on how to create colourful displays in their own gardens. For information on Flower Shows, visit The Royal Horticultural Society online at: www.rhs.org.uk
ATLANTIS TRAVEL NAME TOP HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS
Atlantis Travel,experts intailor-madeholidays, andcommitted toensuring aperfect luxurycruise or landbasedvacation, haveannouncedtheir topholidaydestinations
for 2012. If you would like expert recommendations for your holidayarrangements, Atlantis Travel, based in Chigwell, will be only toopleased to offer their first class knowledge to guide you.
Top Holiday Destinations 2012• One & Only Reethi Rah - Maldives.• The Columbia Beach Resort - Pissouri Bay, Cyprus. • Mount Nelson Hotel - Cape Town.• Villa D’Este - Lake Como.• Royal Mirage – Dubai.• Amanpuri - Phuket. • Sandy Lane - Barbados.
Atlantis Travel, 16 Brook Parade, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6PF. T. 020 8501 0917.
NEWS & GOSSIP TIKADI TEEN CLUBANNOUNCETWO TOPMODELS
Tikadi Salon in Theydon Bois has announced the two winners of their top model competition ‘Search for a Star’ as part of their Tikadi Teen Club. The fresh faces Sophie Gerrish fromTheydon Bois and Sam Stewart from Hastingwood, both 18, havebeen selected to represent Tikadi Teen Club, and to promote Tikadi’snew collections ‘Trophy’ and ‘Shudder’, the pictures for which wereshot in Central London, with both models achieving exceptionalresults. To join Tadiki Teen club, visit www.tikadi.co.uk or ask inSalon for details.
WORLD RECORD BREAKINGZUMBATHON
The ‘Body ShakersWorld Record Breakers’,a group of dedicatedindividuals, are settingout to dance the night
away in aid of Cancer Research UK. Not only have they ran everyRace for Life in the area, this bunch of Charity do-gooders are alsopreparing for the World Record Breaker Zumba Event taking placein October at the Epping Sport Centre. iN Wishes the ‘Body ShakersWorld Record Breakers’ the best of luck in breaking the 13 hourZumba party record. If you would like to partake and receive acertificate, visit www.bodyshakerswrb.weebly.com
IMAGES IN FRAMES EXPANDS TO WANSTEAD
After many successfulyears in Walthamstow,Images in Frames hasnow expanded toWanstead. To mark theoccasion Images in Frames,Wanstead is taking part inthe Wanstead Art Trailwhich aims to support local
artists, showcasing their art, whilst introducing visitors to the area andboosting community spirit. Images in Frames will be among thosedisplaying work by many artists including Eamon Everall, founder of international Stuckism movement. The trail runs for 15 daysfrom September 15 to September 30. Images In Frames, 71 High Street, Wanstead, E11 2AE. For more information on the trail visitwww.artgroupwanstead.com T. 020 7998 4729
34 inMAGAZINE
iN wants to hear from you: [email protected]
THE BIGGEST BREAKTHROUGHIN HOME SECURITY FOR YEARS.Research by ‘The Burglar Alarm Company’ found that 95 per cent of house burglaries are conducted byopportunists; reportedly crime has increased and one factorthat may not be helping, is our hard recession times. Nowmay be the time to start thinking about updating yoursecurity at home or at work.
After much research, Managing Director and entrepreneur Stuart Moss, realised there was a space in the market for a newrevolutionary alarm, which would activate before the intruder breaksin, and would not be picked up by a pet roaming free in the garden.Under ‘The Burglar Alarm Company’ banner, Stuart has created a nifty alarm sensor which works wired or wireless and is asnip from £395 fitted!
The alarm is made active omitting a loud siren as an intruder entersyour garden. This can be set between 2 to 12 metres dependent on the size of your garden. Stuart said, ‘I researched this quiteheavily, as I was burgled myself a few years ago. After heavydiscussions with the Police and security sector, it was widelyrecognised that if a siren was activated before the intruder entersyour home, the intruder is more likely to run away. Our alarm won’t pick up a fox or trees swaying in the wind; it has onepurpose - to deter unwanted intruders.’
It is such a clever idea that Stuart is awaiting the patent for the SIF filter, which fits onto the sensors to stop false alarms.
This has had a welcoming impact on the Burglar Alarm industry andcustomers alike; you can see one in action by visiting their websiteand viewing the YouTube clips.
For more information or to arrange a site visit contact‘The Burglar Alarm Company’ T. 020 8550 5236/07956 550 357.Or email: [email protected] or www.gardenalarms.co.uk
inMAGAZINE 35
MARATHON MAN - PRO SW GYMWhen Michael Amoo-Bediako,owner of Pro SW Gym, wasasked if he would give boxingtraining to a man who suffersfrom a life threateningdisease, Michael jumped atthe challenge. Tyler Pearcesuffers from a disease calledFriedreich's Ataxia which is adegenerative illness that affectsthe nervous system and heart.
Prior to speaking with Pro SW Gym, it had proven difficult to securea trainer because of Tyler's illness.
Since training at Pro SWGym, Tyler's sheer will anddetermination has broughtinspiration into the souls ofthe people who train amonghim. Leon Reynolds, MichaelJunior and ChristopherAmoo-Bediako are amongthose who spur Tyler on in histraining sessions.
We spoke to Michael about Tyler who said, ‘Tyler is an inspiration tome, whenever I see him he has a smile on his face. Even with hisdisability, he shows strength of character that you don’t often see inable-bodied people, and a positive nature that puts many of us toshame.’
Michael aims to run the Berlin marathon to raise funds in aid ofTyler, so he can further enrich his life. We asked Michael how hewould like Tyler to use the funds and Michael commented, ‘Whatever he wants to do with it. As long as it puts a smile on his face,I’m good’.
iN Magazine would like to wish Michael the very best of luck inhis training and on the day.
If you wish to sponsor Michael, drop into the gym or call T. 020 8418 9402 for further details.Pro SW Gym, Sterling House, Langston Road, Loughton, Essex, IG10 3TS.
IN DISCOVERS HIDDEN GEMiN has discovered a newlocation for some of the bestfashion buys in Essex. Luxuryclothes shop, Chic Boutique,situated in Abridge, is acompact treasure trove ofwomen’s styles andaccessories, with plenty tosuit everyone. This exclusive
little shop is situated in a converted house, in the heart of Abridge,stocking labels such as Chi Chi & Alice among many others.Make sure you pay them a visit whilst revisiting your Autumnwardrobe.
Chic Boutique, The White House, Market Place, Abridge, Essex, RM4 1UA T. 01992 813 380.
RADIATOR GALLERYLAUNCHES NEW BATHROOMGALLERY SHOWROOM
The launch ofthe RadiatorGallery’s newBathroomGallery is anexciting additionto the existingRadiator Galleryshowroomwhere you canview the latestflexible andcomprehensive
range for all your bathroom needs, whether it be furniture or bathroomaccessories.
Visit the showroom at 140 Hermon Hill, South Woodford E18 1QH T. 0208 530 7555. www.radiatorgallery.com
ELAINE ATKINS PHYSIOTHERAPYLAUNCH THEIR NEW WEBSITEDo you know what Physiotherapy is and how it can help you?Would you like to learn more about the full range of conditions wetreat? If so, Elaine Atkins Physiotherapy have been very busydesigning their new website that is fully equipped to answer anyquestions you may have about neck pain down to ankle strain –and everything in-between!
Apart from her hands-on work as a Physiotherapist, Dr Elaine Atkinsis an author and lecturer on the subject and the information availableon their website has been written by Elaine herself using herexperience and knowledge.
Take a look at the information at www.elaineatkins.com tounderstand more about the neuromusculoskeletal system’ – the system that lets us move!
BEJEWEL ME’S LAUNCHESDAZZLING NEW RANGE
Bejewel Me,located inGants Hill, isa costumejewelleryboutiquewith
stunning pieces for all occasions. The launch of their latest rangesees leather and Crystal bracelets join their extensive range offashion jewellery wear. Bejewel Me understand the importance ofcustomer care and quality, and constantly work hard to match theiraccessories to their customers outfits. Now also available online, a‘must visit’ this September.
595a Cranbrook Road, Gants Hill, Essex, IG2 6JZ. T. 020 8551 7053. www.bejewelme.co.ukwww.facebook.com/bejwelmelondon
36 inMAGAZINE iN wants to hear from you: [email protected]
inMAGAZINE 37To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
inMotoringRussell Campbell asksthe question...
Does Seat’sSupercopa Leon have the performanceto beat a Veyron?
'What’s the fastest car in the world?' used to be the statuary question asked of a motoringjournalist, at least until the Bugatti Veyroncame around. Now everyone knows it (or theSuper Sport) is king of the hill when it comesdown to outright numbers.
Or is it? Yes the Bugatti is fast, but take it up to its maximum253mph and you’ll run out of fuel sharpish, but not before the tyresblow and when that happens you’ll probably have to stop.
Which got us thinking in the office, what is the fastest real-worldcar for real-world money? It would have to be a quick andeconomical diesel with a list price of less than £25,000, five doors and, if possible, have cool looks.
Abandoning the scientific approach (we don’t like calculators'round here) we opted instead for the mythical iN Magazinerandomiser and it came up with - the Seat Leon 2.0TDI FR+Supercopa.
And who could blame it? Like every Leon, the Supercopa is afamily-sized hatchback with the practicality of a Focus or Golf.Unlike these two, though, the Leon has hidden rear-door handles,which fool people (for a split second maybe) that you’re stillthe young and vibrant type that requiresbut three doors.
The Supercopa does an even better job of this thanks to a tastybody kit that apes the look of the Supercopa cars from the Leonracing series. This brings you a front spoiler, side skirts and a pairof fat exhausts. It looks quite menacing.
Inside though, things are a bit blander. Yes, there’s comfortableand supportive seats, with all the adjustment you could need, andthere are toys like an excellent stereo with mobile-phone-matingBluetooth, excellently intuitive sat nav, air con, cruise control andbi-xenon headlights, but the interior lacks some of the polish ofnewer rivals. Still, it feels very well screwed together, has aux andUSB plugs, and is logically laid out.
There’s also plenty of space for four adults and a reasonably sizedboot, and you don’t get that in a Veyron.
The car we drove had the same engine as the turbo-diesel LeonFR (the 2-litre TSi petrol is another option) which means you’retreated to the combination of 168bhp and 50mpg. It works.
The Leon’s substantial diesel torque (258lb ft at 1750-2500rpm)means that overtaking manoeuvres can be tackled easily, safe inthe knowledge that the fuel gauge isn’t making a bungee jump forthe floor.
If you ever felt the need – or found yourself in a battleto the death with a Veyron – it should reach
133mph, although that could have a badeffect on your MPGs.
38 inMAGAZINE
Talk of something that’s both lightweight and dynamic and there’s a good chance you’re not talking about Land-Rover’s Range Rover.Sure, it combines luxury with go-anywhere ability in a way no othercar can wholley compete with. But its a heavyweight and therefore a bit of a pudding in the corners.
That, though, is a thing of the past, so say our friends at Land-Rover.And you would tend to agree with them when you hear the figures:the new Range Rover will weigh 420kg less than the current model thanks to an all-aluminium monocoque structure, a first in an SUV.
The technology has been borrowed from sister company Jaguar andwhere it should have the biggest effect is in economy and CO2ratings, traditionally somewhere the Range Rover has been poor.
The new chassis is not only lighter it is also stiffer and is suspendedon newly designed all-independent air suspension, with the latestgeneration of ride and stability control, plus Terrain Response 2 - a refined version of the system that automatically reads the carssurroundings and sets it up to tackle it.
The other big change in the Range Rover will be size - it is expectedto be significantly bigger than the out-going model. This is partly forbetter stability, but also to add cabin space as Land Rover drags theRR further upmarket. Legroom in the back will increase by 118mmand for the first time the premium 4x4 will be offered a luxury two-rear-seat option.
The engines are one thing that won’t change drastically with optionsincluding a 3-litre V6 diesel from the Discovery, the 4.4-litre V8 usedin the current Range Rover, while the petrol option is the current 5.0-litre supercharged unit.
The car will go on sale early next year at a price of £70,000-£120,000.
Words by Russell Campbell
That said, it is fast in the corners, too. Large tyres andcomposed suspension means there’s plenty of grip andnever any sign it’s going away. Perhaps the heavy dieselengine at the front takes some of the purity away, but it’snot something you’d notice day to day. The steering ispositive and meaty and the brakes feel equally up to thejob.
Our car was fitted with the DSG twin-clutch gearbox thatmatches the Leon’s jack-of-all-trades character. Pootleabout in town (or anywhere in fact) and it seems to knowexactly what you want all of the time. Even holding ontogears when it knows the engine has the torque to pullthrough.
Find a series of country roads though, slot it into sportsmode – or use the paddles – and it will fly through thegears with a relentless theme, which when combined withthe mid-range power on offer and plentiful grip, can bequite addictive.
But is it faster (over a set distance) than a Veyron? Well,Bugatti never got back to us for the requested head-to-head test, which makes us think that it probably is (itdefinitely isn’t). In which case, should you buy one? If youwant a comfy and practical family car, which combinesdecent performance with decent economy and go-fasterlooks then the Leon is worth a look and, with the new onedue on our shores soon, a tempting discount may just bethe deal sweetener.
LAND-ROVERannounces new
RANGE ROVER
inMAGAZINE 39
INTERIORS OLIVER HEATH,
SPOKESPERSON FOR THE
NATIONAL HOME IMPROVEMENT
SHOW AND PRESENTER OF
BBC’S CHANGING ROOMS
40 inMAGAZINE
ANECOFRIENDLY
HOUSEWe all love our homes, right? We also should
care about our environment and the world
we live in. So how can we achieve
‘Eco Friendly’ living?
iN caught up with Oliver Heath, spokesperson for The NationalHome Improvement Show and presenter of BBC’s ChangingRooms, who is a huge eco homes champion. Believing in theimportance of thinking long term when creating a green home, Oliveris also convinced that once eco friendly living is obtained, it will helpto save household running costs in these penny thrift times.
If designed with care, eco homes can be
beautiful, healthy, nurturing and efficient
spaces to live in. Eco materials and products
will help cut your use of basic resources like gas,
water and electricity, cut your yearly bills and also
help keep your home lovely and warm this winter
and for many winters to come. Oliver added.
It’s comforting to know that we can live and combine the two; withjust a few simple steps an eco friendly home is easily achievable,cutting our carbon foot-print and reducing our house-hold bills.
‘
DRAFT ExCLUDERSFitting draught excluders around doors, windows and openings suchas letter boxes will eliminate cold drafts and help to insulate thehouse avoiding heat loss and save warm air. This means that lessenergy is needed to heat the home which could save households£55 per year (Energy Saving Trust). Draft excluders should beplaced in the around doors, windows, loft hatches, letter boxes, andeven key holes. They can be bought from DIY and hardware storesand make for a satisfying and easy DIY job.
CHIMNEY BALLOONDo you have a disused fireplace? A cheap and effective solution tostop warm air being sucked up the chimney breast and out of thehouse is a chimney balloon. This device will also prevent draughtscoming back down the chimney into the house, saving you moneyon heating your home. Fitting one will make an immediate andnoticeable improvement to the warmth of that room and can easilybe removed by deflating the balloon if you want to use the fireplace.
HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATIONGood ventilation is essential in moisture heavy rooms such asbathrooms and kitchens, to reduce the build up of damp which canlead to the growth of mould, but can often lead to cold drafts unlessthe right product is specified. A heat recovery fan can be up to 80per cent efficient, extracting the warmth from stale air and using thisto preheat fresh air being drawn in; helping to reduce moisture andproviding warm fresh air. They are continually running but can costas little as £4 a year to run.
WINDOWSGet your windows cleaned every four-six weeks to maximise theamount of light coming into the home. This will maximise natural lightand reduce the need to turn on electricity hungry lighting – anotherenergy saver! Giving your windowsills a lick of light reflecting paintwill also reflect natural light back into your property reducing theneed for artificial light. Thick curtains over windows will also reduceheat loss at night but make sure these are pulled well back in theday and don’t cover radiators.
RADIATORSUsing a metal radiator reflector will reflects the heat otherwise lostthrough the wall at the back of the radiator back and push it forwardinto the room. Also it’s worth fitting thermostatic radiator valves tocontrol the temperature in each room. Both items cost little, are easyto fit, will improve comfort and help cut your bills over the winter.
STANDBY SWITCHWe waste between £50 - £86 a year by leaving appliances such asstereos, TVs and satellite systems on standby. This is 16 per cent ofhousehold electricity being frittered away (Energy Saving Trust). Astandby switch will turn off all appliances that are plugged in, at thetouch of a single button and will reduce energy otherwise wasted.
- TO DO LIST-
For more information on
The National Home Improvement Show
(28 September – 30 September 2012), exhibitors,
seminar schedules and tickets visit
www.improveyourhomeshow.co.uk or call the ticket
hotline on 0844 581 0802. Tickets are £8 if booked in
advance and £12 on door.
‘
Oliver Heath’s House
For more information on a greener approach to
home improvement, visit Oliver Heath for a free 15
minute consultation in The Advice Centre. For one on
one guidance, don’t forget to bring your plans along.
inMAGAZINE 41
42 inMAGAZINE To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
inCompetition
TERMS AND CONDITIONSEach pair of tickets can be used on ONE day of the show from 28–30 September. Entries must be received by 20 September 2012. One entry per person. Over 18‘s only. Entrants must be UK residents.Winners will be notified by email after the closing date. Travel is not included. Prize independently provided of iN Magazine. Entrants may be contacted by iN Magazine and selected partners. By entering the
competition you agree that if you are selected as a winner, that you will provide an image for promotional use. The ticket cannot be exchanged for monetary value.
To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
To ENTER log oN To www.iN-MagaziNE.coM/SEPTEMBERcoMP
To win log onto:www.in-magazine.com/septembercomp
and answer the following question.
who is the BBc changing Rooms presenterfeatured in iN Magazine September issue?
SEPTEMBER 2012 oPENiNg TiMESfriday 28 September 10am – 6pm
Saturday 29 September 10am – 7pmSunday 30 September 10am – 7pm
The National homeimprovement Show offersvisitors an unrivaledselection of ideas,inspiration and expertadvice to help you take the next step with yourhome improvement project.
This year’s new featuresinclude free interior designclasses at The Design
School, one to one advice at the Renewable Energyadvice clinic and real life stories at The inspirationalinteractive café. hundreds of exhibitors and expertsawait you with thousands of innovative products for youto see – all packed into three days under one roof!
Experts at the show include oliver heath (BBc’schanging Rooms), Michael holmes (Real homes editorin chief) and Julia kendall (DiY SoS) – to name a few!
TickETS foR ThE NaTioNal hoMEiMPRoVEMENT Show
28 - 30 SEPTEMBERTHE ULTIMATE HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOW RETURNS
FOR THE FOURTH YEAR TO A NEW VENUE – OLYMPIA, LONDON
INMAGAZINEHAS 10 PAIRS OF TICKETS UP FOR GRABS
Visit www.improveyourhomeshow.co.uk to find out more. You can book tickets online now, and take advantage of
cheap early-bird prices or call 0844 581 0802. Tickets are £8if booked in advance and £12 on door. Under 16s go free.
inMAGAZINE 43
44 inMAGAZINE To advertise your business call: 020 8504 7779
50 inMAGAZINE
On your iPod?Chase and Status.
Kindle or book?Book.
Reading at the moment?50 Shades... ’ain't we all!
All time favourite Tune?Insomnia by Faithless.
Listen to to relax?Prince or Paloma Faith.
All time favourite place in Ibiza?Space.
If I say Essex, you think of?Fun!
CHARLIE HEDGES
claRE McDoNalD chaTS wiTh kiSS fM PRESENTER, chaRliE hEDgES aBoUT iBiza,hER RiSE To STaRDoM aND hER faVoURiTE ThiNgS.
Congratulations on your residency inSpace, Charlie. Lets start with Kiss FM.There are a lot of kids out there whohave just recieved their exam results.How have you gone from being aHarlow student to a Kiss FM presenter?I was listening to the radio with my mum whenI was younger, and we started chatting aboutradio and jobs and work, and I've followedmy dream ever since then, really. Kiss isyoung, fun, fresh and real, and so are thelisteners, it's also very interactive and it justseemed the best fit.
My advice to you kids out there... getloadddddds of work experience, get loads ofcontacts, work your butt off and mostimportantly have fun and you'll make it.
You’ve worked in magazinejournalism as well as broadcastjournalism, which do you prefer?At the moment I prefer broadcast, I did printas a backup really as I used to work for amagazine and have done loads of workexperience at newspapers too, when I was atschool. I used to love print but I'd say for themoment I'm more broadcast.
You are so chatty in the mornings, andthey are early mornings, you soundso good! You must get nervous beforeyou go live? Do you ever get to sleep?Never nervous, nope! I just love talking and,believe it or not, I’ve always been a morningperson and never minded getting up early! As soon as I'm up, I'm actually the happiest,sleeping bores me... ha ha! Some days I gethome from the show, catch up with work,
record mixes and then I'm out DJ’ing again inthe evening and then back up and changed togo to the show again. I absolutely love doingwhat I do, so if some days I work a long day,I just get on with it and get a few extra hourssleep when I get some free time.
You’ve interviewed some prettyfamous faces. Who scared you themost?My very first TV interview was with CarmenElectra, though a few years ago. I wasnervous then as I didn't know what to expect.But as I said, I now never really get nervous tobe honest, as I have always tried to look atthese interviews as speaking to normal peoplethat have done well, like a lot of people in theworld, the only difference being that themajority of the world knows them.
Playing a set in a club is very differentto the Kiss Breakfast Show. Do youprefer club DJ’ing to radio talkshows?It's two total different feelings, to be honest. Ilove radio because I love to have a chat andhave fun, and DJ’ing is just unreal. It instantlytakes me to an amazing place.
Has your DJ style fitted in at Space?It’s such a diverse venue and crowd,has it been challenging?It has been amazing, a truly amazingexperience. I had a great set here this summerplaying alongside Carl Cox and FatBoy Slim;musically my set fits perfectly as I play heavyhouse, and in terms of the crowd for me itdoesn't matter where you play in the world,it's like making a whole load of new friends.
Music brings people together so as long as themusic is right then, it'll be fun!
You’ve come a long way since yourbeginnings in Essex, do you feel anydifferent now that you’re a wellknown house-hold name?Not at all, I've got the same group of matesI've had from nursery and secondary school,my family and everyone around me are toocool to let me change or feel different. Whatyou hear on the radio is me, I don't pretend tobe anyone else and that applies to my imagetoo. I just try and enjoy my job and have funreally and not take anything too seriously.
