Newbury Racecourse’s much-anticipated Party In The Paddock race day music series returns for 2025 with the acclaimed electronic trio performing a headline set live after racing on Saturday, 16th August.
Clean Bandit have achieved remarkable success with four UK number-one hits and ten top 10 singles on the UK Singles Chart. The group features classically trained cellist Grace Chatto alongside brothers Jack and Luke Patterson, with Jack serving as the primary songwriter and earning two Ivor Novello Awards for hits including the triple platinum “Rather Be” featuring Jess Glynne.
As of 2024, Clean Bandit is among a select few UK bands with over a billion Spotify streams on four songs, joining the likes of Queen, Coldplay, Arctic Monkeys and One Direction. The Grammy-winning group has captivated audiences with their groundbreaking blend of classical and electronic music, solidifying their reputation as one of the most innovative and influential forces in contemporary music. Hits including “Symphony”, “Solo”, “I Miss You” and “Rockabye” define their unique sound and legacy.
Clean Bandit said:“Newbury! We’ve heard all about the Racecourse’s famous Party in the Paddock racedays and are so excited to be headlining on Saturday 16th August – we can’t wait to see you all there!”
Harry Walklin, Marketing Director for Newbury Racecourse said: “This summer has seen us welcome Sigala, Dizzee Rascal and thousands of fans to the Racecourse across two bumper music racedays and we’re delighted to announce Clean Bandit as the headliner for next August’s Hungerford Day. With an afternoon’s racing and a live headline performance to look forward to it’s set to be an unmissable day. Both the racing and Clean Bandit’s show are included in one ticket and those fans registering for our exclusive priority sale will guarantee themselves the best deal.’’
Tickets go on general sale at 10am on Friday, 22nd November, but fans can access an exclusive pre-sale from 10am on Wednesday 20th November by registering for free at newburyracecourse.co.uk/cleanbandit.
Tickets – which entitle admission to both the day’s racing and Clean Bandit’s headline set – start from just £34 for Adults and £16 for U18s.
Hospitality packages – priced from £130 per person – for Clean Bandit live after racing at Newbury Racecourse are on sale now at newburyracecourse.co.uk.
Newbury Racecourse plays host to year-round racing and offers free parking at all racedays while an on-site train station means getting to and from the Racecourse couldn’t be easier.
Dom Joly, Alison Hammond, Olly Murs & more celebrities are urging us all to swap, buy second-hand or rewear a pre-loved jumper as they launch Save the Children’s annual festive fundraiser on 12th December.
“I’m an ex-goth so I can be quite grumpy around Christmas time,” says Dom Joly, “but some festive traditions have creeped in over the years. It doesn’t feel like Christmas unless I have a tube of my favourite biscuits, chocolate Bath Olivers, which are so rare these days that my wife has to drive halfway across the country to find them. I also take my two black Labradors on a walk around the park on Christmas Day – they both have special Christmas collars that flash and look very festive.
“I’ve been to see the incredible work that Save the Children is doing to support children and families on the ground in Ukraine. In areas of conflict all around the world, the charity is working tirelessly to ensure children still have access to food, education, and a modicum of structure in a world that has often been ripped apart. Christmas Jumper Day is such a simple way of supporting this vital work – I’d urge everyone, even Christmas grumps like me, to get involved if you can.”
Olly Murs said: “Christmas in the Murs household is always a laugh! Every year, I’m in charge of the games, including our tradition of pass the parcel which everybody loves. This year will be Madison’s first Christmas, so I’m really excited for that – it’ll be a special one for the whole family.
“Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is such a fun way to raise money for a brilliant cause. As a new dad, I know how important it is for my daughter to have a safe and happy upbringing, but not every child in the world experiences this. All you need to do is wear a silly second-hand jumper, donate what you can and you’ll be helping to make sure children across the globe get the future they deserve.”
Alison Hammond said: “Normally at Christmas time I’m doing panto, so I only get one day off which is Christmas Day. Last year I went to my sister’s house, where I sat on the sofa and did absolutely nothing while she cooked the most spectacular roast dinner. I know that sounds terrible, but after working the whole festive season, putting my feet up for the day felt very deserved!
“I love how much fun Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day is and how easy it is for everyone to get involved! If you’re busy over the Christmas period like me, you can simply head to your local charity shop and pick up a pre-loved knit. Every penny raised helps children here in the UK and all around the world to stay safe, healthy and learning. So what are you waiting for babes?! Sign up now!”
Laura Whitmore said: “Most of us have a festive jumper somewhere in our wardrobe, and if not, why not borrow one from a friend? I’m always letting friends borrow my clothes, and they let me borrow theirs in return.
“I have a lot of things in my wardrobe that are there for life. Although it’s nice to follow trends, I think it’s really important to have those staple pieces that will last a lifetime – mine is definitely my go-to leather jacket. I also get quite nostalgic with clothes: I remember what I wore on my first date with my husband or what I wore when I auditioned for MTV – and my Christmas jumper always reminds me of all the festive fun I’ve had with friends and family over the years! There’s a story in every piece of clothing I own.”
Joe Swash said: “Christmas Day at my house is always chaos but most importantly, it’s full of love, laughter and excitement.
“I’m supporting Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day because, having kids myself, I know how important it is for children to feel safe, protected and supported. Anything we can do to help raise money so children all over the world can experience these basic rights is something I’m all for. You don’t even need a new jumper to get involved – grab any old thing from your cupboard and spruce it up with some tinsel or baubles. Jobs’ a good ‘un!!”
Nadia Sawalha said: “Christmas is an opportunity for us to reflect, think about all we have to be grateful for and how we can give back.
“This year has been tough for many people across the world, so it feels more important than ever to do what we can to spread joy and hope.
“One thing we can all do to help children stay safe, healthy and learning, is get involved in Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day. Wearing a jumper and donating a small amount really has the power to transform children’s lives for good.
“So whether you’re at work, in the classroom, on the sofa or down the pub, why don’t you get involved on the 1th December – or whenever suits you best.”
Sophie Morgan said: “Christmas Day has got to be about being comfortable. Wearing something really cosy and warm is key so I’m usually in an extra big jumper and a pair of leggings.
“I’m terrible at throwing things away so I have loads of jumper at home to pick from for Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on 7th December. All you need to do to take part is theow on your favourite jumper and donate £2 to Save the Children.”
Robbie James looks at ‘going it alone’, don’t be afraid to do what you want just because you have no one to do it with, you may just enjoy it more…
I have some ludicrously brilliant people around me, and I love them an amount that I can’t be bothered to try and formulate into words here – but that doesn’t mean I don’t completely love the time I spend with… well, none of them.
Going to a restaurant, sport, or a gig on your own is daunting, especially when you’ve never done it before. People will be wondering why I’m the only person on my own, won’t they? Everyone will feel sorry for me. They’re gonna think I’m some sort of creep. Will they think I’ve been stood up? No. They won’t. They probably won’t notice, and if they do, they probably won’t care for more than seven seconds.
Pushing yourself to go and do that thing you want to do but have no one to go with is one challenge, the second is actually following through once the experience is in motion. Once you’ve looked at the menu or bought your tickets or have made your way into the waiting area, can you resist a scroll of Instagram?
Can you avoid resorting to taking a few minutes to leave a Google review for the Cineworld you went to last month, or replying to O2 about the fact your latest bill is available (even though in no uncertain terms it began with ‘DON’T REPLY’)? That phone is your ultimate get-out-of-jail-free card that can save you from not having to look up. It’s so hard! Break through the barrier once, and you’ll be grand the next time around.
I’m away filming and actually writing this in my notes while solely taking up a table of six (I was told to sit there, before the space efficiency police start) in Gloucester Quays’ Côte, waiting for my Mushroom Cassoulet. Wait, I’m on my phone. What a hypocritical meringue. I’ll continue later.
Ok I’m back, banging dinner. I’m a sucker for a Chestnut Mushroom. So as I was saying…
Cricket has always felt like a nice getaway to enjoying solo activity. A County Championship match can take four whole days. You run out of people who have their entire Wednesday to burn, and you can’t spend eight hours on your phone (I’ve tried), so I’ve watched plenty of cricket while thinking about… absolutely nothing.
Aside from cricket, my first proper solo trip was when I took myself to Paris a couple of years ago. I was sad and decided I wanted to spend some time with myself; so, naturally I went to a city with 2.1 million people within it. But that was kind of the point.
Everyone was doing something. All those around me in the wine bar were catching up with pals or talking business. I sat and let it all happen. I let my brain wander from one thought to the next, and thought about those things that you don’t have any time to pay attention to when you’re socialising.
I’d love for it to be more normal to do things on our own. Why is it you have to be above a certain age to have an overly priced flat white while watching the trials and tribulations of the high street?
You don’t have to banish any social life you’ve ever had – socialising is one of the great things of all the great things. Do though go to a gig even if no one is free, or just go and have a beer at the pub enjoying the one afternoon of winter sunshine we’re getting this month. Break through the awkwardness, and I promise you’ll enjoy it even more the second time around.
A garden room extension can be a highly rewarding investment. Discover all you need to take into consideration, including planning, design and cost.
A garden room extension can create extra living space, provide a lovely location for a home office, or allow room for a tranquil retreat. All in all a highly rewarding investment.
One company at the forefront of building bespoke oak-framed garden rooms is The Classic Barn Company. Renowned for their expertise in constructing a wide range of oak framed buildings their skilled craftsmen possess the ability to handle projects of varying sizes and complexity, showcasing the versatility of oak framing.
This editorial will cover all the essential questions UK homeowners need to consider before embarking on a garden room extension project, with insights drawn from the experience of Andrew Guppy, founder of The Classic Barn Company.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Garden Room Extension?
The price of building a garden room varies significantly depending on the size, materials, and design. According to The Classic Barn Company, oak-framed garden room extensions typically range between £70,000 and £120,000 + vat at today’s prices, depending on the complexity and specification.
Key cost factors include the foundation work, the choice of glazing (whether you opt for bi-fold doors, for example), insulation, and interior finishes. Oak is a premium material, and while it may cost more upfront, its durability and timeless aesthetic often make it a worthwhile investment.
Garden Room Extension
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room Extension?
Whether or not you need planning permission for your garden room extension depends on several factors. If the garden room is under a certain size and within permitted development rights, it may not require planning permission. The Classic Barn Company advises that it is essential to adhere to both planning and building control requirements when planning any building work. This is something you can attempt to navigate yourself but they do offer full planning and building control services, guiding you through the process and ensuring that all aspects of your garden room extension comply with UK planning regulations.
Oak Beams in Room Above Extension
Bathroom in Garden Room Extension
Do Garden Rooms Add Value to Your House?
Adding a garden room to your property can significantly increase its market value. On average, garden rooms can add between 5% and 10% to the overall value of your home, especially when built to a high standard using premium materials like oak.
The Classic Barn Company builds bespoke oak-framed garden rooms that enhance both the visual appeal and functionality of a property. Their garden rooms are designed to blend seamlessly with the existing architecture and often incorporate garage space and room above space, providing potential buyers with a desirable additional living space. The durability of oak framing also ensures that the extension remains an attractive feature for years to come. For a detailed look at how oak-framed buildings can add value, visit The Classic Barn Company or check out their informative YouTube channel
Oak Extension Linked To House
Can I Attach a Garden Room to My House?
Yes, you can attach a garden room extension to your house. Many homeowners opt to link their garden room to their main residence via a connecting hallway or corridor. This provides easy access to the garden room, which can be used as a living area, home office, or even a guest room. This also adds more value relative to the build cost, as the space contributes to the main property’s overall square footage.
The Classic Barn Company specialises in designing oak-framed garden rooms that can be seamlessly attached to your home, providing a smooth flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Their expert team can create a design that complements your existing architecture while enhancing the overall layout of your home.
Living Quarters Above A Garage Extension
Can I Add an Oak Framed Garden Room to a Brick Built House?
Absolutely. Oak frames can be added to a wide variety of property types, including brick-built houses. The juxtaposition of traditional brick with natural oak can create a stunning aesthetic, blending the strength and solidity of brick with the warmth and character of oak.
The Classic Barn Company has extensive experience in designing oak-framed extensions for brick homes. Their bespoke oak structures are carefully crafted to harmonise with your existing property, creating a cohesive look. Whether your home is modern or period, oak can provide an elegant, high-quality extension that feels like an integral part of the original house.
Glazed Gable Balcony On Garage Garden Room
Do Oak Frames Make a Good Garden Room Extension?
Oak frames are an excellent choice for a garden room extension. Oak is renowned for its strength, durability, and timeless beauty. It’s also a sustainable building material, with oak trees being replanted to ensure future supplies.
One of the major advantages of using oak for a garden room extension is its natural insulation properties. Oak frames can help maintain a comfortable temperature in your garden room, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
The Classic Barn Company’s oak-framed structures are built using traditional craftsmanship combined with modern building techniques, ensuring that your garden room extension is both energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Timber Framed Extension Linked To House
What Is a Link Extension?
A link extension is a small corridor or hallway that connects a garden room or other extension to the main house. It serves as a transitional space, providing easy access between the main property and the extension.
Link extensions are a popular choice for garden rooms, as they allow homeowners to create a seamless connection between the house and the garden room while maintaining the integrity of the original building.
The Classic Barn Company is adept at designing and building link extensions that enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your property.
Living Quarters Above A Garage
Can You Use a Link Extension with an Oak Frame Garden Room?
Yes, a link extension can be used with an oak-framed garden room. In fact, combining the two can create a striking architectural feature. Oak frames add character and a sense of grandeur to any property, and when paired with a well-designed link extension, they can create a harmonious transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Classic Barn Company offers bespoke oak-framed link extensions that are tailored to match the design of your garden room and home. Whether you’re looking for a glazed corridor to maximise natural light or a more traditional oak-framed walkway, they can design and build a solution that fits your vision.
3 Bay Garage With Room Above
Is it Worth Building a Garden Room Extension?
A garden room extension can provide valuable extra space while enhancing the aesthetic and financial value of your home. Whether you choose to use it as an office, living room, or guest space, the versatility of a garden room makes it a popular choice for UK homeowners.
Working with a company like The Classic Barn Company, known for their craftsmanship in oak framing and an accredited member of The Guild of Master Craftsmen, ensures that your garden room extension is built to the highest standard.
From planning permission to design and construction, The Classic Barn Company offers a full range of services to guide you through the process, with an array of design solutions for both single storey designs or room above garages making your dream garden room a reality.
With their expertise in oak framing, they can create a bespoke extension that not only meets your needs but also stands the test of time.
To learn more about oak-framed garden rooms visit The Classic Barn Company or watch their informative videos on YouTube.
Garden Room Oak Extension With Guest Room
Glazed Balcony In Gable End
What is Different About The Classic Barn Company?
The Classic Barn Company stands apart from other oak framing companies due to its rich history, unwavering values, and team of highly skilled experts. Founded over three decades ago, the company has honed its craft and developed innovative techniques that push the boundaries of traditional oak framing.
At the heart of The Classic Barn Company lies a deep commitment to sustainability. They source their oak from responsibly managed forests, ensuring that every project contributes to the preservation of our natural environment. Their team of master craftsmen, many of whom have been with the company for years, possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that is passed down through generations.
One of the company’s unique strengths is its ability to seamlessly blend traditional oak framing methods with modern design sensibilities. They understand that every client has unique needs and preferences, and they work closely with them to create bespoke structures that not only meet their functional requirements but also reflect their personal style and vision.
The Classic Barn Company’s innovative techniques and attention to detail set them apart from the competition. From intricate joinery to meticulous finishing touches, every aspect of their work is executed with precision and care. Their commitment to excellence is evident in the stunning oak framed structures they have created, each one a testament to their craftsmanship and dedication.
Who founded The Classic Barn Company?
Andrew Guppy is the founder and lead designer at The Classic Barn Company. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Andrew has established himself as a true authority in the field of oak framing.
His passion for this traditional building method began at a young age, and he has dedicated his career to mastering the intricate art of oak construction. Andrew’s extensive knowledge encompasses not only the technical aspects of oak framing but also the rich history and heritage behind this time-honoured craft.
Throughout his career, Andrew has been recognized by his peers and industry organisations for his exceptional work. His designs have won awards and been nominated to the prestigious ‘Built it’ awards. In addition his barns have been opened by Royals and are often recognised as flag ships in villages across the countryside and rural areas.
His deep understanding of oak’s unique properties and his ability to translate clients’ visions into reality have made him a sought-after authority in the industry.
Garden Room Above With Balcony
What sort of oak framed buildings do The Classic Barn Company build?
The Classic Barn Company is renowned for their expertise in constructing a wide range of. Their skilled craftsmen possess the ability to handle projects of varying sizes and complexity, showcasing the versatility of oak framing and the ability to combine habitable spaces such as guest accommodation.
One of their specialties is the construction of oak framed garages, both traditional standalone structures and those with additional living spaces above. These garages are not only functional but also exude a timeless charm that seamlessly blends with any property.
Beyond garages, The Classic Barn Company excels in the creation of stunning oak framed barns, stables, complexes, extensions and outbuildings. The Classic Barn Company has an excellent video that showcases their craftsmanship and the oak framing process. The video takes you through the entire process of an architecturally led build, from the concrete being poured to a fully fitted interior. You can witness the skilled craftsmen carefully constructing different phases of the project and the attention to detail of each beautifully crafted aspect. You’ll see them expertly assembling the oak frame, with each piece precisely fitted together using intricate joinery methods, and the finished project in all it’s glory.
With the festive season fast approaching, those invitations to lunches, office parties and Christmas drinks start rolling in. So – what are you going to wear?! Lucy Briggs has the answer
Festive wear is all about the sparkle and glitter but do we really need to buy a new outfit for each occasion? Or can we get creative with our festive-wears especially when we think of the environmental impact of our clothing.
The fashion trends this year are very similar to previous years which means that most of us will have something to wear already. This season’s biggest colours are burgundy, red, green and grey. Party staples, layering and luxurious textures – velvet, lace and faux fur – can be updated with tailoring and leopard print! So, you can still feel current in your old Christmas jumper simply by pairing it with tailored wide-leg trousers and heels or leopard print jeans and metallic trainers!
However, if your body has changed (it happens to us all) and you no longer fit your partywear – what should you do? Sustainably move it on – sell online, donate to charity shops or take it along to a Clothes Swap – then you can replace items with an equally sustainable, secondhand option where the resources to make it have already been used! Charity shops, preloved sellers (online and boutiques) and clothes swaps have an abundance of partywear just waiting to be re-loved.
Regardless of trends, to look and feel your best, my advice is always a 3-step approach:
1. Know your best colours 2. Understand your body-shape 3. Nail your personal style
Knowing these three things can help you shop anywhere – high street, vintage, charity shops & clothes swaps – and help you save money, feel confident and love your wardrobe!
If you would like to see preloved styling in action, Tory (Transform with Colour) and I, Lucy (Sustainably Styled) will be hosting our Festive Sustainable Style & Swap evening. You’ll learn about colour and style whilst enjoying a glass of bubbles and then take part in the Festive Clothes Swap! Bring along those items you no longer wear and swap them for something ‘new to you’! Sequin clothing are definitely ones to bring along to keep in circulation! Plus, some ticket holders will be able to book mini sessions with us for personalised advice – spaces are limited!
So, bring your friends and come along to Festive Sustainable Style & Swap on Friday 22nd November, 7pm at The Northcourt Centre. There’ll also be gift stalls to kick start your present shopping. We look forward to seeing you there! Book at Festive Sustainable Style & Swap! Tickets, Fri 22 Nov 2024 at 19:00 | Eventbrite
Round and About’s resident wine columnist Giles Luckett celebrates the Beronia Rioja and suggests some festive wine gifts
Hello. Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve been inundated with press releases telling me why X wine is this year’s Christmas essential.
Suggestions have ranged from the good – Louis Jadot ‘Les Roches Blanches’ Mâcon-Villages (Majestic £11.99 as part of a mixed six) – by way of the unusual – the Teleda Qvevri Saperavi 2022 (The Wine Society £17) – to the eye-watering – the Armand de Brignac Blanc de Noirs – Assemblage No. 4 (Champagne Direct £1,150). Elon Musk has this last wine coming out of his taps, apparently.
One recommendation that did strike a festive chord with me was the suggestion that people share their love of wine this Christmas with the gift of wine in the comely shape of the Beronia 3 Bottle Gift Pack (Ocado £65). People rarely give me wine as gifts, their reasoning being based either on them not knowing what to buy me or that I have enough wine already, a concept I simply don’t understand. If they did (Santa, please take note) then a Beronia three-bottle gift pack would be a cracking Christmas present. A bottle of the Beronia Crianza, Reserva, and the majestic Gran Reserva would spell a very happy holidays for me as I’ve been a fan of their wines for years. Equally, if I find my stocking contains a cheeky quarter bottle of the Beronia Crianza (Ocado £3.89) my Christmas morning lay-in will prove very jolly.
Beronia Rioja: Innovative. Sustainable. Genuine.
While it is one of the younger Rioja bodegas having been founded by a group of fine food-loving friends in 1973, Beronia is also one of the most dynamic and innovative. I tasted my way through their range earlier this year and was struck by the wines’ combination of value and excellence. Rioja remains the world’s most affordable fine wine region, and while some examples are getting seriously expensive – the Sierra Cantabria ‘Magico’ will set you back £375 a bottle – wineries like Beronia offer beauty on a budget.
What’s less well-known about Rioja is the diversity of styles that it offers. This is another reason why I’m such a fan of Beronia. Their motto is, “Wines that are honest through and through” and it’s a philosophy that’s manifested itself in them being led by the land, planting grapes that are best suited to their sites and using sustainable methods to ensure future generations can enjoy their wines. While it may have been tempting to produce nothing but red wines, the easiest to sell, instead they’ve crafted a range of white, rosé and red Riojas that are true to their roots.
So, with the long dark nights now with us, and with Slade already banking their PRS 2024 royalties, allow me to celebrate the wines of Beronia with you and recommend some real crackers.
First up, a white, the Beronia Virua (Songbird Wines £11.75). This wine encapsulates Beronia’s approach to winemaking to me. Traditionally white Riojas were heavy, oak-laden affairs that were as zesty as a bottle of sunflower oil and about as appetizing. This though is a modern take on it. Complex and intense on the nose, it offers citrus, apple and white peach with a hint of pineapple, pear and savoury herbs. Medium-bodied, its intensity makes it feel more powerful than it is and means it’s the perfect partner for seafood white or brown meats, or as a satisfying solo sipper.
Next up is a pair of Rioja rosés. If white Rioja was historically the region’s poor relation, then rosé Rioja was the barely tolerated black sheep. The main reason for this was that rosé Rioja was made either as an afterthought or by using over-cropped Garnacha grapes to use them up. Beronia has given rosé (rosado) Rioja the respect it deserves, and they offer two exceptional examples. The first is the bouquet packed with strawberries, red cherries, blossoms and citrus. On the palate, it’s lively, fresh and full of life, with strawberries, raspberries and loganberries being offset by almonds, gentle spices and rhubarb. This is just the thing for savoury hors d’oeuvres or smoked fish.
Their other rosé Rioja is the Alegra de Beronia which takes rosé Rioja to a whole new level. Designed to be a fine wine, it’s just that. Rose gold in colour, the nose offers a subtle blend of plums, black cherries and strawberries with just a touch of pomegranate. In the mouth, it’s full, mellow, rich and refined. Layers or red and black fruits are held in a low acidity, luxurious body that gives it weight, depth and complexity. I’ve had this with risotto, spring lamb, and on its own and it’s always impressed me. I’ve even tasted it against the Whispering Angel range – including the £90 a bottle Garrus – and the Alegra was my favourite.
And so, to the reds. When it comes to red Rioja, Beronia really does spoil you for choice, and having had all their wine on multiple occasions, I would recommend them all. But to highlight Beronia’s innovation and diversity I’ve picked three of my favourites.
The first is the Beronia Reserva 2019 in magnum (Amazon £30). Magnums (two bottles in one) are my favourite bottle format. Not only do they allow wines to develop more slowly and ultimately achieve greater complexity, but they are also great for large gatherings and look so impressive on the table. The Beronia Reserva is only made in exceptional years (and 2019 was one of the best ever) and is given a minimum of a year in oak and two years in bottle before it is released. The result is a powerful, rich, dark, spicy wine that’s packed with juicy black berries, tangy red fruits, herbs and has a touch of chocolate and cherry liqueur to the finish. Pair this with roasted red meats, hard Spanish cheeses, or a selection of cured meats, olives, and tomato-based dishes.
Mazuelo may not be a grape you’re that familiar with, especially coming from Rioja where it accounts for less than 2% of black grape plantings. When yields are kept low and when it’s planted on the right soils, however, it can be spectacular. Beronia’s Mazuelo Reserva (Amazon £20.60) is a fantastic example of what it can do. Inky blue-black, the grape’s natural red berry freshness shines through on the nose, with the long oak ageing adding vanilla spice and a twist of green herbs. With its flavours of bright red berries, creamy vanilla, and a touch of sweetness, this is a fascinating wine that shows a completely different style of Rioja. Enjoy this with brown meats – its juiciness means it’s perfect with cold turkey – blue cheeses or nuts.
I’ll finish with a flourish and the Beronia III a. C (Cellar Door Wines £65). This is a taste of wine history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rioja’s vineyards were devastated by the phylloxera beetle and most vines had to be ripped out. The Beronia III a. C is made from vines that survived phylloxera’s onslaught and offers old-world charm with modern-day freshness and vibrancy. Aged for 15 months in a mixture of old and new oak, its signatures are blackberries, cherries, and red fruits with hints of liquorice, cocoa, vanilla and aged balsamic. Wonderfully complex and nuanced, give this several hours open and serve with goose or game as you would a fine red Burgundy.
All this talk of Beronia has given me a thirst, so I’m off to read my daughter’s letter to Father Christmas, after which I’ll need a stiff drink. Next time, festive fizz. Cheers! Giles
Drum & bass pioneer Seba reveals his sixth studio album Oni ahead of an album release party on 15th November at London’s XOYO
Drum & bass kind Seba (not just our title: he was crowned earlier this year by Resident Advisor) has led an impressive 23+ year career.
Starting out with the legendary LTJ Bukem, Seba is often credited by artists in furthering the scene and as inspiration, as featured recently in UKF and DJ Mag.
Packed with 12 meticulously crafted tracks, the album Oni sees Seba exploring both the liquid and jungle subgenres of drum & bass, while also venturing into deep house territory, continuing to solidify his status as one of the most respected and innovative figures in electronic music,
It packs a punch with some bangers like Smoke and Slam, but then offers soothing, blissful relief with tracks Air and Flow. It even an unexpected deep house/Jon Hopkins-esque track with Three.
“I’ve been doing one off releases for Spearhead since 2011,” says Seba, AKA Sebastian Ahrenberg. “Steve (BCee) and I talked a long time about doing an album for Spearhead, and after my 2022 album Ingaro on my own label Secret Operations, it was about time to put another album together.
“Since my musical direction is quite diverse with releases ranging from Hospital records to Function records, I thought it would be good to do an album that reflects that diversity. This album has a bit of jungle, drum & bass, liquid, some darkness, some smoothness. All blended together with my signature sounds.”
You’re invited to book your tickets and step into a world of immersive sound to celebrate the release of Oni, 8pm-12am (last entry 10pm) on Friday, 15th November at XOYO London (18+)
The UK’s original festive light trail returns to Kew Gardens in London, November 13th to January 5th
Christmas at Kew returns with a showcase of new installations and world premieres which will allow visitors to see Kew Gardens’ UNESCO World Heritage Site in an entirely new light.
A firm festive favourite since 2013, Christmas at Kew has led the way for other festive light trails across the country, celebrating the best of nature by night and providing a plethora of opportunity to create magical memories.
Bringing Kew’s incredible natural architecture to life, this year’s trail will feature perennial favourites including pea lit trees, a festive funfair and the charming Christmas Cathedral.
This year’s trail will feature two world premieres, with bespoke new installations on display to visitors for the first time anywhere in the world as part of Christmas at Kew. Ombre by TILT takes the form of a series of giant plants in bloom, springing up from the landscape in a spectrum of vibrant shades. Threshold by Studio Vertigo is an illuminated helix-like shape, bathed in golden yellow light to evoke the warmth and joy of the festive season.
Camellia Walk will be transformed into a snowy lane, showcasing the spectacular tree canopy and evoking a wintery wonderland at the start of the trail. Other highlights include Fish are Jumping by Dutch artists TOER and Mist Arches by Culture Creative creating an atmospheric ambience across Kew’s Lake Crossing.
Other highlights on the trail include returning favourites such as the spectacular light show on the Temperate House, evocative Fire Garden and seasonal selfie-spot Christmas Cathedral. Many of the Kew’s striking plants and trees will be highlighted along the route, allowing visitors to soak up the spectacle of nature from a new perspective and bask in vibrant colour as twilight falls. The much-loved Palm House finale will return for 2024, showcasing Kew’s iconic glasshouse in showstopping style.
To add an extra touch of magic to the Christmas at Kew experience, visitors cam book a delicious traditional Christmas dinner at The Botanical Brasserie. Along the route, visitors can also find delicious food and drink from independent street food vendors.
As part of our 2021-2030 Sustainability Strategy, every year Kew works closely with Christmas at Kew event partners and suppliers to design and deliver a beautiful Christmas light trail in a way that is as sustainable as possible – and every year they are making improvements to achieve a lower impact Christmas at Kew event for thousands to enjoy. In 2005, Kew Gardens became the first World Heritage Site to achieve ISO 14001 accreditation. ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed standard for environmental management, helping organisations to improve their environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and reduction of waste.
Where possible, all lighting on the trail is LED and they are working hard to transition towards 100% LED lighting for the artworks which form the Christmas at KEW trail over the next couple of years. This year all Christmas at Kew generators are being run of renewably sourced biofuel.
Sandra Botterell, Director of Marketing and Commercial Enterprise at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, said: “Christmas at Kew is always a much-anticipated highlight of the year, and this year’s trail is already shaping up to be a truly magical season spectacle. With a selection of brand-new installations alongside firm favourites which have become iconic parts of the Christmas at Kew experience, we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy the beauty of Kew Gardens by night later on this year.”
At Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, Glow Wild celebrates its 11th year with charming bespoke installations and the world’s largest living Christmas tree.
We’re sharing two recipes using venison, a sustainable, ethical local meat, thanks to Chiltern Venison & Robin Popham of Create Terroir
Geoff Wicket, founder of Chiltern Venison, is on a mission to show how this game meat is a great alternative to minced beef.
This recipe for a Thai classic, thanks to Robin Popham at Create Terroir, is explosively tasty, without being hot. Robin says: “Rendang is bursting with flavour and tender meat. Allow the simmering and cooking times for the best results, but at a push this can be truncated.”
Venison rendang:
Serves four (freezes well) Ingredients: For the paste: • 15 dried red chillies • 8 shallots or 2 banana shallots • 4cm root ginger, sliced • 3 lemongrass stalks, root end, sliced
For cooking: • 5 tbsp vegetable oil • 680g cubed venison (haunch dice is perfect; stewing venison is also good, though less aesthetic) • 2 lemongrass stalks (whole) • 800ml coconut milk • 4 tbsp desiccated coconut • 2 Makrut (previously known as ‘kaffir’) lime leaves • 1 beef or chicken stock cube • 2 tbsp tamarind paste • 1 tsp caster sugar • 0.5 tsp salt • Basmati rice
Method 1. Prepare the paste Boil 15 dried chillies in enough water to cover them. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drain, cool, and split to remove seeds. Blend the chilli flesh in a processor with shallots, ginger & lemongrass. Add a little water if the paste is too coarse.
2. Cook the rendang Heat 5 tbsp of vegetable oil in a heavy casserole pan. Fry the paste for five minutes over low heat. Add the venison and remaining lemongrass stalks. Stir fry to brown the venison. Maintain medium heat to avoid drying out the meat or paste. Pour in 800ml of coconut milk and 250ml of water. Bring to a boil, simmer for two hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Toast the desiccated coconut in a dry frying pan over low heat until golden brown. Add the toasted coconut, Makrut lime leaves, stock cube, tamarind paste, caster sugar and slat into the casserole. Cook for a further 30 minutes until the venison is tender. It’s normal if the oil starts to separate.
3. Serve Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving. Serve your venison rendang with basmati.
Venison Ragu
“Spag Bol” this is not! Spaghetti Bolognese has been adopted into British culinary culture with open arms, adapted to suit our tastes and ingredients, however its origins are quite different. Emanating from deep within Italian culture, Ragu alla Bolognese uses only a handful of ingredients, cooked simply.
The base flavour comes from a combination of three vegetables, or soffritto, before adding ground meat and stock. Tomato puree provides a richness and viscosity to the sauce but by no means is this a tomato sauce. Venison shoulder is ideal, with a fabulous flavour and texture well suited to mincing and cooking in this manner. This recipe is both quick to make and uses only two pans, ideal for a weekday family meal.
Ingredients: • 500g minced venison shoulder • One large carrot • One large onion • One leek • 50ml rapeseed oil • One dessert spoon of tomato puree • Salt and pepper to taste • 350g stock, preferably venison • 80-100g fresh tagliatelle • Hard strong cheese to finish
Method: 1. Begin by heating a heavy based saucepan or casserole with a lid. Add the rapeseed oil to lightly coat the base of the pan then gently brown the meat in two batches over a medium heat. It is important not to burn the pan as this will taint the flavour of the final sauce. Once brown remove from the pan to a plate.
2. While the meat is browning, finely dice or grate the vegetables. Preparing as finely as possible means they will almost melt as they cook, bringing body to the sauce.
3. Once the meat is browned and removed from the pan, add the prepared vegetables, season with a little salt and turn down the heat to a minimum. Place a lid on the pan allowing the steam to build up inside, dissolving the leftover crusty bits from browning the meat. Stirring occasionally, leave for around 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
4. Remove the lid, add the tomato puree and turn the heat up to a medium setting. While stirring lightly cook the puree for a few minutes until it takes on a deeper colour. Now add the mince back to the pan and turn the heat up. Once the ingredients begin to sizzle add the stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Taste and add a little salt if necessary. Put the lid back on and cook over a gentle heat for 30 minutes.
5. While the sauce is cooking bring a large pot of water to the boil and put a colander in the sink to drain the pasta.
6. Once the sauce has cooked for 30 minutes, remove the lid and turn up the heat to evaporate any remaining liquid. Cook the tagliatelle as per the instructions if you are using shop brought pasta, or 3 minutes for home made. Drain and add to the sauce. Now season with pepper and mix.
Serve with grated hard cheese, I have used Witheridge in Hay which is a sharp cheddar style cheese from Nettlebed Creamery.
Chef notes
1. Venison mince can be cooked far quicker than beef due to the greatly reduced fat content. A long cooking time will dry out the meat as there is no fat to give that perceived moisture. Mincing the shoulder creates very short strands of muscle fibre for perceived tenderness.
2. Soffritto provides the flavour backbone to many Italian dishes, comprising of carrot, onion and celery. The three vegetables bring a complementary contrast of sweet, sharp and savoury while adding texture. Celery has a punchy texture and flavour, too strong for this recipe, so leek has taken its place to bring a fresher flavour and, with the onion, a mild balancing acidity.
3. When to season is almost more important than what to season with. Adding salt early on helps break down fibres in the meat and vegetables allowing flavour to develop a little quicker. Pepper on the other hand needs to be added right at the end as its flavour is diminished by heat and exposure to the air.
4. Wine is a staple for many a ‘Spag Bol’ recipe which is well suited to beef, effortlessly cutting through the fat with its acidity and the rich flavour will overpower venison’s delicate character.
5. A wide, heavy based pan or preferable casserole allows for even cooking by keeping a stable temperature. A lid simply retains heat and moisture offering yet more stability throughout the cooking.
6. Pasta shape is linked to sauce consistency throughout Italy with recipes sighting specific shapes. Bolognese Ragu is well suited to a wide flat pasta such as tagliatelle, its larger surface area carrying the thinner sauce while being able to hold the meat.
You can read our longer article of Geoff & Chiltern venison here.
The TV star & dad chats to Bruce Dessau ahead of his tour which next year visits Guildford, high Wycombe, Reading & more
You may well know Josh Widdicombe from Channel 4’s award-winning show The Last Leg, his podcast Parenting Hell with Rob Beckett, or his many appearances on panel shows.
In his brand new show, entitled Not My Cup of Tea, he takes stock of the little things that niggle him, from motorway hotels to children’s parties.
Q. How is the preparation for the tour going? “It’s going way better than I thought. To the point where I could probably get away with doing it in the spring but I didn’t want to put any pressure on myself. I want to enjoy it because in the past I was so busy with Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo and stuff I was chasing my tail and desperately trying to have enough material for each tour. This time I’m able to enjoy the process of creating the stand-up.
Q. What is it like returning to tiny clubs to road test material after doing arena Parenting Hell gigs in 2023? “I’ve been doing 20 minute sets and it’s almost divorced from the fact that I’m going on tour, which I think is the best way to write a tour, like you’re just doing it for the sake of it, in the same way I suppose it must be nicest for a musician to just write songs for the sake of writing songs. I’m doing stand-up for the sake of doing stand-up at the moment. I love the experience of coming up with ideas and just being able to go and do them.”
Q. You’ve called your new show Not My Cup Of Tea… “Yes, because I like the phrase. And since I gave up alcohol in 2023 I drink a lot of tea. As you get older you realise who you are a bit more and I’ve realised that the things I love are like parochially British things like Martin Parr’s photography or Blur or Alan Bennett.
Q. Is there a theme? “If there is a theme it’s probably about accepting that I prefer being at home and not having to deal with any other human beings. Which is a weird way to approach a tour show where you have to travel around the country talking to thousands of people!”
Q. You are more of an introvert comedian than a show-off comedian then? “When I stopped drinking I realised how much the reason I drank was really for social situations because I didn’t feel comfortable in them. I grew up in Devon, I was an only child in a small school and watched TV for hours a day so I was quite introverted. Here’s a good example, I’m currently doing The Last Leg every day in Paris and everyone’s like ‘do you want to meet up in the morning?’ and I’m like ‘no, I’m spending 10 hours a day working with you, I want the morning to myself so I can read a book in bed.’ And there’s something about observational comedy, it’s about watching from the outside, so I wonder whether that is part of why I do comedy.”
Q. Are there any other new routines you think will make the finished show? “There is a bit about children’s parties and party bags so as you can see I’m dealing with the big issues! I take a huge pride in the banality of the topics I talk about. I think that’s my favourite type of stand-up – really niche observations about silly little things that you wouldn’t think about. I’ve got no interest in the big topics.”
Q. Has Parenting Hell’s massive success changed your stand-up style? “I think the podcast has had a huge impact on how I understand myself as a comedian. I spent years terrified of letting the audience know who I was and then we did Parenting Hell and I suddenly saw that the more I showed myself the funnier I am. So I think it will almost certainly be the case that I’ve changed, but I wouldn’t ever do it consciously. I saw Ed Gamble at the Hackney Empire recently and – I’d hate him to know this – I found it incredibly inspiring because he was funny every 20 seconds for an hour and 10 minutes and that is everything I want to be. Just be as funny as possible.”
Q. Have you missed stand-up? “It took a while for me to think I wanted to do stand-up again after the pandemic. I think I got really used to being at home. I hadn’t had evenings off for 12 years and for the first time I got my evenings back and I was like ‘oh this is what it’s like and it’s really nice.’ But now I’m really loving it again.”
Q. Do you ever worry about how long success will last? “It’s the curse of the freelance. You can go up and down in terms of venue size, I don’t know where I am on that graph. I’d rather work really hard and take the opportunities while they’re here now. One day they might not be here. People ask ‘why did you do that show?’ and you’re like ‘because it’s fun, because I love it and I get paid really well to do what I love so why wouldn’t I do it?’ I can’t believe that I got paid to go to the Paralympics. This is my hobby that got out of hand!”
