Nile Rodgers joins Nocturne Live line-up

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Trio of stars join Gary Barlow, Richard Ashcroft, Lightning Seeds, and The Zutons for summer shows at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire for Nocturne Live 2025

Nile Rodgers, the legendary songwriter, producer, and guitarist, has been confirmed as the latest headliner for the Nocturne Live concert series, returning to the iconic Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire from June 18th-22nd. Rodgers, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner, will deliver a dynamic performance with his band CHIC on Sunday, June 22nd. Fans can expect a journey through his iconic catalogue, including hits like Le Freak, Good Times, and Everybody Dance.

Joining Rodgers are R&B legends En Vogue, known for hits like Hold On and Free Your Mind, and soul icons Shalamar, celebrated for disco classics such as A Night to Remember.

Other confirmed acts for Nocturne Live 2025 include Gary Barlow (Friday, June 20th) and Richard Ashcroft, Lightning Seeds, and The Zutons (Thursday, June 19th), with more artists to be announced.

Since 2015, Nocturne Live has become one of the UK’s premier stately home concert series, hosting stars like Elton John, Lionel Richie, and Kylie Minogue. The 2025 series runs from June 18th-22nd, with tickets for Nile Rodgers and CHIC starting at £54. Tickets go on sale Friday, January 24th, at 9:30am, with a pre-sale beginning Tuesday, January 21st, for mailing list subscribers. Limited VIP packages, including dining in Blenheim Palace’s State Rooms, are available at Nocturne Live | 18TH – 22ND JUNE 2025

Tickets for Nile Rodgers & CHIC go on sale at 9.30am this Friday January 24th 2025 from www.nocturnelive.com

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FREE FIZZ Friday at The Ivy!

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The Ivy introduces Ivy Green Friday, offering complimentary bubbles to all diners on the day.

This January, The Ivy Collection launches its first-ever Ivy Green Friday to brighten spirits as the festive season comes to an end.

On Friday, 10th January, Ivy restaurants nationwide* will offer diners a complimentary glass of bubbles, whether they’ve made a reservation or are stopping by spontaneously.

Guests can choose between The Ivy Cuvée or Wild Idol Naturally Alcohol Free Sparkling Wine, making Ivy Green Friday a perfect opportunity to connect with loved ones and shake off the winter blues.

Laura Mills, Managing Director at The Ivy Collection, said: “After December’s festivities and the first full working week of the New Year, a little treat is well-deserved. A glass of bubbles has a way of making any day feel special, and with options like The Ivy Cuvée or Wild Idol Alcohol Free Sparkling Wine, there’s something for everyone – even those doing Dry January. It’s the perfect excuse to get out, catch up with friends, or enjoy quality time with family, despite the chilly weather.”

Ivy Green Friday will take place on Friday, 10th January, from 11.30am until close. Guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbles with the purchase of a main course.

To book a table, visit https://ivycollection.com/book-a-table/.

To become a member of The Ivy Premier Rewards App, join here: https://theivycollection.app/

The full menu for our restaurants can be viewed here: https://ivycollection.com/menus/

*The Ivy Green Friday offer will not be available at The Ivy West Street, The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow and The Ivy On The Square, Edinburgh.

**One complimentary glass of either The Ivy Cuvée or Wild Idol Naturally Alcohol Free Sparkling Wine per person can be redeemed with the purchase of a main meal from 11:30am. Booking is not required; however, walk-in’s will be subject to restaurant availability. One glass per person (18+) at managers discretion. While stocks last.

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Education Guide January 2025

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Creative Careers
Celebrate your child
Early Years education

The impact of VAT on fees

Tom Dawson, headmaster of Sunningdale School near Ascot, considers the implications for schools of the coming VAT on fees

After months… no, years of speculation and expectation, the government has introduced VAT on to private school fees, from January 2025.

This is going to have a significant and lasting effect on the whole sector and it presents a huge challenge for those of us managing these institutions. Business rates relief for independent schools with charitable status will also be removed.

The government believes these measures will raise £1.8 billion per year which they will invest in the state sector, saying they want to recruit 6,500 extra state school teachers. They don’t say where these teachers are going to come from, however, and anyone who has advertised for a teacher recently knows how difficult that can be.

They estimate 37,000 pupils will leave or never enter the private school sector as a result of the VAT policy and that 3,100 additional pupils will leave or never enter the private school sector in England as a result of the business rate policy. The reality is likely to be much more significant than this.

Another significant concern is the timing of this policy. Introducing these measures in the middle of the academic year demonstrates a lack of understanding of the pressures faced by schools, parents and children.

A double whammy

The government says it has carried out consultation and responded to feedback but it has not changed its policies as a result of this consultation. In fact, it has gone further than this by increasing employers’ National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and by lowering the threshold at which these contributions are paid. A great deal of what might have been saved by reclaiming VAT will be spent on these contributions. Staff costs are, on average, 69% of turnover for schools. Increasing the burden of NICs is a significant addition to a school’s budget.

So what is the answer for schools? There are various options; apply VAT to the current fee, reduce the fee so that after reclaiming VAT you can just break even, or reduce the free by a greater percentage, accepting the fact you will make a loss. Despite introducing VAT of 20% on school fees, the government says it expects private school fees to go up by around 10%. It also says some schools have said they will cap the increase at 5% or that they will absorb the whole cost themselves. This is simply not realistic. Many schools will apply VAT on their current fee, meaning a 20% increase, and the vast majority of independent schools have announced their fees will go up by at least 15%.

A good number of schools announced their position in advance of the budget; in some cases, many months before. Many are now regretting this decision as the measures announced on October 30th have gone so much further than expected and they now face a significant shortfall in the budget. Since the budget was delivered, several schools have already announced they will close as a result.

‘Independent schools must work harder…’

Whatever their position, schools are going to have to adapt to this new reality. We face a future in which school fees are significantly more expensive and schools are going to have to work harder for their slice of a diminishing pie.

At Sunningdale we have been very clear with parents about our position and we have been very clear with staff about our responsibilities. We have to make sure that what we offer is truly exceptional. We have always tried to do this but we must now make sure that parents can see the value of spending a very significant amount of money on their child’s education. So what does that look like and what should parents expect?

To be truly world class, an independent school education must offer outstanding, individualised teaching which leads to visible progress. They must also offer the sort of holistic education that leads to a bright future for their pupils. The co-curricular offerings at most independent schools are incredible. But interestingly, their purpose is not often to create sports stars or world class musicians – although this may happen – it is to set pupils up for happy, healthy and successful lives.

Good schools build confidence; they foster resilience; they encourage teamwork and collaboration; they teach good values; they develop pupils into good, responsible global citizens who want to make a difference and they help children to believe that anything is possible.

So as much as every school will look at their costs and do what they can to make savings without diminishing what they offer, I believe that the real key to a successful future lies in making sure that you are the best that you can possibly be.

Tom Dawson
Headmaster, Sunningdale School
Sunningdale School

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Star signing: January Astrology & tarot 

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What’s in store for you this month? Melanie Harding, founder of Soul Healing Guidance, offers the first of her new monthly guides for all signs… 

Aries (March 20-April 18)

This month slows your usual pace, Aries, as your fiery ruler Mars is retrograde causing you to pause and refine your strategy. Tensions may arise on the 3rd when Mars and Pluto clash – avoid power struggles and focus on staying grounded. On the 6th, Mars shifts its energy to your home life, sparking a focus on family and domestic projects. Use this time to make meaningful improvements or tackle long-delayed tasks. The Full Moon on the 13th offers a chance to tie up loose ends and reconnect with loved ones. Mid-month, challenges peak as the Sun and Mars clash on the 15th, testing your patience – step back from conflicts to conserve your energy. Things brighten after the 19th when the Sun moves into Aquarius, filling your calendar with social opportunities. Mercury joins the party on the 25th, making this a perfect time to connect and collaborate. Use the New Moon on the 29th to host a gathering – it’s a great way to wrap up the month on a high note.

Tarot Card: The World

The World is your guiding card this month, Aries, reminding you to seek completion and balance. Just as the horoscope suggests tying up loose ends and pausing to reassess. The World advises you to focus on the bigger picture and the interconnectedness of your efforts. Whether it’s resolving family dynamics, organising your home, or expanding your social circle, this card encourages you to find harmony and fulfilment in your journey. Embrace patience, reflect on your accomplishments, and trust that slowing down now paves the way for future success.

Taurus (April 19-May 19)

Fun is on the agenda this month Taurus, but keep a close eye on your wallet around the 14th. As January kicks off, your social calendar lights up with Venus enhancing friendships and Mars pushing you to explore. Travel may call – Mercury in your travel zone from the 8th is perfect for planning a winter getaway. The Full Moon on the 13th beckons you to hit the road, but caution is key on the 14th when Venus squares Jupiter, making overspending a tempting trap. If your budget wobbles, Venus’s alignment with Saturn on the 18th helps you regain control. By the 19th, the Sun’s move into Aquarius shifts focus to career ambitions, setting you up for a stellar opportunity near the New Moon on the 29th. A promotion or big breakthrough could be yours – go for it!

Tarot Card: Seven of Cups

The Seven of Cups serves as your guide this month, Taurus, reflecting the choices and opportunities that fill your horizon. While fun and adventure may call, this card reminds you to stay grounded and avoid illusions. Just as the horoscope warns against overspending or scattering your energy, the Seven of Cups advises you to evaluate your options carefully. Be mindful of what truly aligns with your values and long-term goals. Take time to discern between fleeting distractions and meaningful pursuits, and you’ll turn this month’s opportunities into lasting rewards.

Gemini (May 20-June 19)

January puts your career in the spotlight and calls for financial savvy, Gemini. Venus in Pisces from the 2nd rewards the hard work of recent years, potentially boosting your income. Mars in your money zone on the 6th is the perfect cue to reassess your finances. Mercury’s presence in your house of taxes and resources from the 8th makes this an ideal time to strategise your budget. A Full Moon on the 13th highlights and unexpected financial matter – tackle it swiftly. Wanderlust kicks in when the Sun enters Aquarius on the 19th, and the New Moon on the 29th is the perfect moment for a travel adventure. Keep a cool head during tense moments on the 23rd and 30th, avoiding heated debates.

Tarot Card: Ten of Wands

The Ten of Wands reflects the responsibilities and burdens you may carry this month, Gemini. With career and finances demanding your focus, this card encourages you to prioritise tasks and seek support when needed. Just as your horoscope suggest strategising your budget and tackling challenges head-on, the Ten of Wands reminds you to avoid overextending yourself. Lighten your load by delegating where possible and focusing only on what truly matters. By pacing yourself and staying organised, you can turn this month’s challenges into stepping stones toward long-term success.

Cancer (June 20-July 21)

This month is about reclaiming your power and finding harmony in relationships, Cancer. The Sun’s focus on your partnership zone highlights whether your needs are truly being met. Mars moves into your sign on the 6th, filling you with courage and drive to assert yourself, while Mercury in Capricorn from the 8th sharpens your ability to communicate with clarity and purpose. The Full Moon on the 13th serves as a transformative moment, urging you to stand firm and embrace your agency without hesitation. As the Sun shifts into your finance sector on the 19th, financial matters take centre stage. The New Moon on the 29th provides opportunities to resolve money concerns, whether through unexpected windfalls, savvy financial planning, or a creative approach to budgeting. With love and finances finding new balance, you close out January on an empowered note.

Tarot Card: Seven of Wands

The Seven of Wands reflects the need to stand your ground and defend your boundaries this month. Just as your horoscope suggests asserting yourself in relationships and stepping into your agency, this card encourages you to trust your inner strength and resist external pressures. Challenges may arise, particularly around the Full Moon, but staying confident in your position will lead to breakthroughs. The Seven of Wands reminds you that perseverance and self-belief are key to turning January’s obstacles into lasting victories.

Leo (July 22-August 21)

This month calls you to showcase your leadership, Leo, with the Sun illuminating your career sector and placing you naturally in charge. Romantic connections thrive under Venus in Pisces from the 2nd, offering opportunities for intimacy. However, when Mars retreats to Cancer on the 6th, the stars encourage you to work behind the scenes, sharpening your strategies quietly. The Full Moon on the 13th serves as a much-needed reminder to pause and prioritise self-care – recharging now will prepare you for the weeks ahead. After the 19th, the focus shifts to your relationships as the Sun moves into Aquarius, followed by Mercury on the 27th. Whether you’re setting firm boundaries or deepening bonds, your ability to navigate relationships with clarity and grace will shine. Single Leos should keep their hearts open as the New Moon on the 29th signals a stellar time to make meaningful connections. Luck strikes on the 30th when the Sun aligns with Jupiter, presenting opportunities that are too good to miss.

Tarot Card: The Chariot (Reversed)

The Chariot reversed reflects the need to slow down and reassess your direction this month. While you’re naturally inclined to charge ahead, the stars – and this card – urge patience and introspection. Just as Mars’s retreat to Cancer prompts behind-the-scenes effort, the reversed Chariot reminds you to let of rigid control and flow with life’s pace. Challenges in balancing relationships or career ambitions may arise, but this card advises trusting the journey rather than forcing outcomes. Embrace the pause and realign your focus to ensure you’re steering toward meaningful success.

Virgo (August 22-September 21)

January shines a light on creativity and romance, Virgo, as the Sun energises your artistic and playful side. Venus in Pisces from the 2nd enhances relationships, offering a chance to deepen connections or meet someone special. Collaborative projects are favoured as Mars enters Cancer on the 6th, motivating teamwork and shared goals. The Full Moon on the 13th is an ideal time to connect with friends – plan a social outing and let loose. After the 19th, professional demands rise as the Sun moves into Aquarius, focusing your attention on work. Mercury’s shift into the same sign on the 27th sharpens your problem-solving skills, allowing you to handle tasks with remarkable efficiency. The New Moon on the 29th brings career breakthroughs – be ready to embrace new opportunities like a promotion, raise, or fresh project. Balancing your passions and responsibilities will leave you feeling both inspired and accomplished by month’s end.

Tarot Card: Five of Cups

The Five of Cups reflects and undercurrent of reflection this month, Virgo, particularly as you balance your creative and professional ambitions. While opportunities abound, this card gently reminds you to release past disappointments and focus on the present. If moments of doubt arise – whether in relationships or career – it’s an invitation to shift your perspective. The blessings in your life far outweigh what’s been lost. Embrace the month’s opportunities with optimism and confidence, allowing growth and joy to take centre stage.

Libra (September 22-October 21)

January invites you to embrace harmony and leadership, Libra, as teamwork becomes your superpower. Venus in your work zone from the 2nd enhances collaboration, making it easy to align with others toward shared goals. Mars enters Cancer on the 6th, encouraging you to step confidently into a leadership role. Home life also demands attention when Mercury shifts into your domestic zone on the 8th – finding balance between professional and personal responsibilities will be key. The Full Moon on the 13th spotlights your achievements, bringing recognition for your hard work and dedication. Romance blooms after the 19th, when the Sun moves into Aquarius, followed by Mercury on the 27th, energising your love life. Single Libras should look to the New Moon on the 29th for an exciting fresh start in matters on the heart. With professional success and personal joy intertwining, January is shaping up to be as balanced and fulfilling as you could hope for.

Tarot Card: Two of Cups

The Two of Cups reflects the beauty of partnership and mutual support, Libra, perfectly aligning with your sign’s love of harmony. This month, the card encourages you to nurture your relationships – both professional and personal. Whether it’s a collaborative project at work or a budding romance, the Two of Cups highlights the importance of connection and unity. Approach all interactions with sincerity and gratitude, knowing that the bonds you strengthen now will bring lasting rewards.

Scorpio (October 22-November 20)

January ignites your adventurous spirit, Scorpio, as the Sun lights up your travel zone. This is the perfect time for a winter escape, with the Full Moon on the 13th offering an ideal opportunity for spontaneous getaways. Mars in Cancer on the 6th further fuels your wanderlust – be ready to act on last-minute plans or opportunities for exploration. However, the second half of the month shifts your focus inward. After the 19th, the Sun and Mercury move into Aquarius, drawing your attention to your home and family. It’s a time to reflect, nurture, and create a cosy sanctuary. The New Moon on the 29th is ideal for hosting friends or loved ones, infusing your space with connection and warmth. Balance your desire for adventure with comfort of home, and you’ll find a fulfilling rhythm this month.

Tarot Card: Three of Swords

The Three of Swords serves as a reminder to process lingering emotional wounds, Scorpio. This card invite you to reflect on past heartaches and to let go of what no longer serves you. As you embrace the adventures and connections January offers, make space for healing. Whether it’s through travel, spending time with loved ones, or creating a sanctuary at home, the Three of Swords encourages you to find solace and clarity in both movement and stillness. Release, rebuild and reclaim your inner peace.

Sagittarius (November 21-December 20)

This January, Sagittarius, financial awareness takes the spotlight. With the Sun energising your money zone, it’s time to focus on smart budgeting and prioritising your spending. Venus in Pisces from the 2nd highlights creative projects that won’t break the bank, and Mars in Cancer on the 6th helps you rein in any impulsive tendencies. The Full Moon on the 13th encourages a detailed review of your finances – this is the perfect moment to reassess your budget and set yourself up for future stability. After the 19th, your wanderlust kicks into high gear as the Sun shifts into Aquarius. The New Moon on the 29th is a prime time to indulge in an adventurous road trip or spontaneous getaway, bringing some well-deserved excitement to your month. Balance practicality with fun, and you’ll come out ahead.

Tarot Card: Nine of Cups

The Nine of Cups brings the promise of fulfilment and joy. Sagittarius, but it also comes with a gentle nudge. It reminds you to appreciate life’s simple pleasures while staying mindful of your long-term goals. By managing your resources wisely this month, you’re setting yourself up for a celebration of abundance. This card suggest that your financial efforts will pay off, allowing you to indulge in the adventures and experiences you cherish most. Embrace gratitude and let the Nine of Cups guide you toward a month of satisfaction and balance.

Capricorn (December 21-January 19)

It’s your time to shine, Capricorn! With the Sun in your sign, your confidence and ambition are at an all-time high. Mars in Cancer on the 6th may stir up tension in relationships, but Mercury’s steady
influence in your sign from the 8th ensures you’ll navigate any challenges with poise an
clarity.The Full Moon on the 13th marks a pivotal moment in a close partnership, offering the
opportunity for resolution and relief. After the 19th, your focus shifts to finances as the Sun light
up your money zone, bringing the potential for well-deserved rewards. By the New Moon on the
29th, exciting news about income or a promising opportunity could pave the way for financial
growth. Stay grounded and seize the moment!

Tarot Card: Four of Swords

The Four of Swords encourages rest and reflection amidst your busy month. It’s a reminder to carve
out time for self-care and mental clarity, especially when handling conflicts or making important
decisions. Use this energy to recharge and plan your next steps thoughtfully. By balancing your
drive with moments of calm, you’ll not only achieve your goals but also preserve your inner
harmony. Trust that rest is as essential to success as action.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

This January, self-care takes precedence, Aquarius. With Venus gracing your money zone from the
2nd, you’re encouraged to invest in activities that replenish your mind and body. Mars in Cancer on
the 6th inspires a return to healthy habits, making this a great time to focus on wellness. The Full
Moon on the 13th offers the chance to release old patterns or habits that no longer serve you. From
the 19th, it’s your season to shine! The Sun in your sign renews your energy, and Mercury joining
on the 27th heightens your wit and communication skills. By the New Moon on the 29th, you’re
ready to debut a fresh look or start a transformative journey that aligns with your vision for the
future. With Uranus, your ruling planet, moving direct on the 30th, you’ll feel unstoppable.
Embrace this powerful, forward-moving energy—your time is now.

Tarot Card: Ten of Pentacles

The Ten of Pentacles symbolises abundance, stability, and legacy—energies that align perfectly
with this month’s focus. It’s a reminder that self-care and building strong foundations in your
personal and professional life will yield lasting rewards. Use this energy to align with long-term
goals and strengthen bonds with loved ones. By investing in yourself and your community, you’re
setting the stage for a bright and prosperous future.

Pisces (February 19-March 19)

This January, your social calendar is buzzing, Pisces, with the Sun in Capricorn placing you firml
in the spotlight. From the 2nd, Venus enters your sign, amplifying your natural charm and making
you the star of every gathering. However, when Mars moves into Cancer on the 6th, romantic or
creative decisions may feel clouded. Trust that clarity will arrive with the Full Moon on the 13th,
helping you chart the right course forward.After the 19th, the Sun’s shift into Aquarius encourages
introspection. Take time to rest and recharge, reconnecting with your inner world. By the New
Moon on the 29th, indulge in self-care—a woodland walk, meditation, or quiet retreat will help you
align with your dreams and prepare for the month ahead.

Tarot Card: Queen of Wands

The Queen of Wands inspires you to own your power and shine with confidence. Her fiery ene
reminds you to embrace your creativity, take the lead in social and professional areas, and pursue
your goals fearlessly. This card encourages balance—use your charisma to inspire others while
keeping space for your own needs. You have the energy to thrive in every area of your life this
month.

Key January Astrological Dates

• January 2 – Venus enters Pisces
• January 6 – Mars retrograde enters Cancer
• January 8 – Mercury enters Capricorn
• January 13 – Full Moon in Cancer
• January 19 – Sun enters Aquarius
• January 27 – Mercury enters Aquarius
• January 29 – New Moon in Aquarius
• January 30 – Uranus stations direct

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Welbeck Health Partners advice

Karen Neville

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Dr Ellen Fallows from Welbeck Health Partners discusses how embracing lifestyle medicine with professional support can help us address the root causes of long-term conditions to achieve better health with fewer medications.

The UK remains in a COVID-19 hangover. The average number of sick days per person has increased to 7.8 days each year from 5.8 days annually, many people are struggling with multiple long-term health conditions and socially we’re more isolated now than at any point this millennium.

In fact, global studies have proven social isolation poses a greater risk to our health than smoking and obesity combined. Professionals are working from home more than ever, essentials are being ordered direct to our doors and squeezes to the cost-of-living make it difficult for many to enjoy trips out beyond the boundaries of their home.

Increasingly complex health issues along with stress, isolation, poor quality food, inactivity, smoking and alcohol and inadequate sleep can impact our immune health, impairing our ability to fight off seasonal colds and flu. Additionally, the widespread reliance on medications, which are often not intended as long-term solutions, highlights the need for a more proactive approach to our health. By making positive lifestyle changes, individual can not only enhance their overall health and immunity, but also reduce dependence on medication, minimising the chances of side effects and leading to more sustainable improvements in health.

A new approach is needed in addition to modern medication and surgery options; lifestyle medication is a scientific approach which supports prevention, treatment and even reversal of the underlying drivers of some health problems. With this approach, medications can often be gradually reduced and even stopped – particularly medicines for Type-2 diabetes, obesity, depression and pain. For others, starting medications such as HRT, smoking cessation medications or new weight loss drugs, might be needed to help with starting the behaviour changes to address sleep, activity, smoking and diet for example.

This more holistic, minimal medication approach supports us with behaviour changes including personalised nutrition, fitness, sleep and lifestyle assessments to help us to sustainably improve our health, mood and energy with fewer pills. Intensive, supported interventions such as fasting mimicking diets, shown to trigger cell renewal (known as autophagy), are also available for those needing to see rapid health changes, for example prior to an operation, chemotherapy treatment or IVF. However, it is important to note that these powerful, evidence-based interventions should be undertaken with medical supervision, particularly for individuals on other medications.

Experience as a general physician means I can take a whole-person approach to health issues, avoiding the pitfalls with modern medicine often focuses on single-organs rather than the whole body. My expertise lies in lifestyle medicine and sustainable weight loss treatments within the NHS, whilst teaching this approach as course lead at the University of Oxford. Welbeck Health, Jordan Hill in Oxford will be one of the first UK centres to offer this new global medical practice of lifestyle medicine.

We all know what a healthy and active lifestyle looks like and how it can positively contribute to our overall wellbeing, but achieving this is very challenging. It is particularly hard to achieve if we are already on multiple medicines and have many other complex health problems such as long-covid, menopause symptoms, obesity, type-2 diabetes or depression.

Many of you will be reading this column with new year’s resolutions in mind. And leading a healthier life and prioritising wellbeing is often top of people’s lists.

So, where can we start? Lifestyle medicine describes 6 key pillars that clinicians can asses and support;

1. Mental wellbeing: Your mental health is intimately linked to your physical health, treating this at the same time as your physical health issues is critical. This doesn’t always need antidepressants but can involve scientifically proven nutritional psychiatry interventions which range in intensity. We will support you to improve sleep and address isolation, meaning and purpose.
2. Addressing nutrition: We can support you to simply improve overall nutrition but also with intensive medically supervised nutritional interventions to achieve substantial and rapid health changes including improvements in mood, sleep and remission of some long-term conditions such as obesity, Type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure and chronic pain. The science of nutritional interventions for health has rapidly progressed with some specific targeted options depending on your health needs.
3. Improving sleep: Sleep has been underestimated in health, we will assess your sleep quality and help address factors that may be affecting sleep quality, including prescribed medications.
4. Reducing harmful substances: We will support you to reduce alcohol, smoking and even reducing medications that may be promoting weight gain or adversely affecting your mood. We can also prescribe alternative medications that can help with these behavioural changes.
5. Supporting physical activity: At whatever level of fitness, we can help you to creative activity habits that are realistic, effective and fit in with your daily demands and health conditions. Activity can be anything you enjoy and can result in rapid improvements in sleep, mood and pain if supported in a gradual and sustainable way.
6. Building social connections: Connecting with others is critical for health, we can support you to assess what you could prioritise to improve healthy relationships in your life. This includes building a beneficial therapeutic relationship face to face in our clinic.

This approach incorporates preventative health care to pick up problems early. Lifestyle interventions can be targeted and your progress monitored. We will support you with state-of-the-art wearable devices that are convenient, accurate and help to motivate and monitor the effectiveness of the changes you are making.

Everyone has different needs, health challenges or goals. We take detailed, whole person and personalised assessments including detailed discussion, clinical examination and tests to create your treatment plan.

Lifestyle medicine is an exciting new global medical discipline and welcome addition to Welbeck Health Partners’ premium healthcare services. Whether you want better health with fewer medications, weight loss medications with a more holistic and sustainable approach or want to improve outcomes from your planned surgery, chemotherapy or IVF – we can help you to maximise your health with fewer long-term pills.

A combination of increasing viral infections, low light, low levels of Vitamin D and increased exposure to artificial light means winter can be a particularly challenging time to maintain levels of positive wellbeing. Ensuring you’re surrounded by professional support means you’ll be best placed to stick your 2025 resolutions through January and beyond.

Welbeck Health Partners’ Oxford centre is due to open in autumn 2025. The centre will be its second private healthcare clinic and will enable the group to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage across the south of England.

The group is investing over £30million into the Oxford site which will offer a comprehensive suite of medical services and cater to 12 specialities including digestive health, heart health, ENT, lung health and genetics.

Further information is available online via Welbeck Health Partners

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Wizards of Oz!

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Our wine expert Giles Luckett explores some cool wines from a land down under…

January brings Australia Day and my annual celebration of Aussie wine. I’ve been doing this so long I now can’t recall whether I started in relation to it or the other way around, but this year I’m looking at the cooler side of things with some cracking cool climate Australian Wines.

First up, a Sauvignon, the RedHeads Princess of Thieves Sauvignon Blanc 2022 (£10.49 Laithwaites). A Tasmanian winemaker once told me that Australian Sauvignon was ‘a weed that needs grubbing up’. He obviously hadn’t tried this. Produced in the cool of the Adelaide Hills, this is excellent with great intensity and an arresting purity. It opens with a piercing, zingy bouquet of gooseberries, lemons and flint smoke. In the mouth it’s just as enthusiastic, dropping gooseberry, rhubarb, and lemon fruit bombs across the tongue that leave minerals, lime peel and spearmint in their wake. A great solo sipper, this has the intensity to partner everything from fish pie to a green Thai curry.

Next, the coolest of cool whites from my favourite cool climate region, the Moorooduc Estate Chardonnay 2021 (£25.95 NY Wines) from Mornington Peninsula. Mornington Peninsula is a spit of land that lies to the south of Melbourne which by dint of being surrounded on three sides by water enjoys exceptional growing conditions. Here the McIntyre family produce wines of breath-taking quality that combine New World energy with Old World refinement. The Estate Chardonnay is white gold with a nose of blossoms, lemon, nectarine and peach. On the palate it’s fresh and zesty with a charge of white peach, grapefruit and lemon followed by delicate notes of orange zest, crushed nuts and red pears. Delicious now with fish or roasted fowl, it’s got time on its side.

And so, to the reds, and the queen of grapes in the shape of the Robert Oatley Signature Pinot Noir (£14.30 VINUM). Produced from grapes grown in the Yarra Valley, this is a wonderful example of that rarest of wine gems, an affordable Pinot Noir. Mid-red with a summery nose of wild strawberries, red cherries and spiced raspberries, its soft, velvety body offers a gentle combination of cooked red fruits, cream, and oriental spices. A taste of summer to accompany the wintry nights ahead.

I’ll finish with one of the best Shiraz I’ve had in years. The Mount Langi Ghiran 2021 Cliff Edge (Great Wines Direct £19.60) is a masterclass in cool climate winemaking. Hailing from the Grampians region of New South Wales, it conveys Shiraz’s complexity and concentration without being overwhelmingly powerful. From its beautiful blue-black robe rise notes of zesty cassis and fresh red berries with a touch of menthol, smoky oak, cherry jam and wild herbs. The palate balances freshness and weight with crisp blackcurrants, blackberries, plums and blueberries offset by mint, mineral, and Parma violet hints. A class act, pair this with slow-cooked red meats, tomato-rich pasta dishes, or falafel.

Well, that’s it for now, next month, it’s for the love of wine.

Cheers,
Giles

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Tom’s greatest hits at The Coach

Liz Nicholls

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Liz Nicholls

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Tom Kerridge & Sarah Hayward have brought some of their best-loved dishes back to menus to celebrate 10 happy years at The Coach

Behind every great team is (at least one) great woman, to mangle the phrase! And Sarah Hayward, who has worked alongside Tom Kerridge for 10 years, is at the heart of The Coach’s success.  

“The Coach has been my home for so many years and celebrating its 10th anniversary is incredibly special,” says Sarah.  

A selection of the pub’s most loved dishes from the past decade will be incorporated into the main menu throughout the birthday year and will change periodically to bring back a variety of cherished favourites from The Coach’s history. Each dish is embossed with a bespoke 10th anniversary logo. Dishes include potted Cornish crab with smoked paprika butter and cucumber chutney (£16.50), The Coach Chicken Kiev with Cauliflower Cheese (£29) and The Coach profiteroles with soured vanilla cream and dark chocolate sauce (£12.50). 

“This menu is a tribute to our loyal guests and the amazing team who make The Coach what it is,” adds Sarah. “I’m excited to revisit some of our best dishes and share them with everyone.” 

Tom Kerridge has also teamed up with the team at local brewery Rebellion Beer to create an IPA for the occasion called Decade. A local institution since 1993, Rebellion is renowned for its high-quality ales crafted using the Chiltern Hills’ natural resources and have collaborated with The Coach since the opening 10 years ago. A portion of proceeds will be donated to local charity, Meals from Marlow. 

In 2015, Sarah joined The Hand & Flowers, Tom Kerridge’s two-Michelin starred pub and after just three months was promoted to chef de partie. Just two years later in 2017, Sarah joined The Coach as junior sous chef, before promotion to her first head chef role at The Bull & Bear in Manchester’s The Stock Exchange Hotel in 2019. In 2021 Sarah returned to The Coach as head chef where she knows the kitchen inside out. She has led the team, and herself, to achieve prestigious accolades, including being named Michelin Young Chef of the Year 2023, retaining a Michelin Star since 2018, Number 21 in Top 50 Gastro Pubs 2024, and 3 AA Rosettes 2024. 

Tom Kerridge adds: “The Coach has always been about serving high-quality food in a relaxed and welcoming environment, and Sarah embodies that vision perfectly. I’m so proud of what the team has achieved and can’t wait to see how we continue to evolve in the years ahead.” 

For more info, the menu or to book please visit The Coach Marlow

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Ivy’s Circus NYE

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See in the New Year with a three-course set menu, a night of circus fun, celebration and spectacular food

This New Year’s Eve, The Ivy Collection invites guests to step into the enchanting world of the circus for an unforgettable evening of exquisite dining, refreshing drinks, and dazzling entertainment. With a meticulously curated set menu featuring The Ivy’s signature dishes, diners can celebrate the arrival of 2025 in style with family, friends, and loved ones at their nearest Ivy restaurant.

Available to book now, the evening promises a festive atmosphere, with each restaurant offering bespoke entertainment, such as live music or a DJ, ensuring a lively and memorable celebration to round off the year.

From spectacular performances to indulgent cuisine, the menu showcases seasonal touches on The Ivy’s classic dishes. Starters include the festive Chilled Lobster and Prawn Cocktail, served with marinated avocado and Marie Rose sauce, and the Twice-baked Stilton and Walnut Cheese Soufflé, paired with a rich and creamy sauce.

For mains, guests can savour celebrated favourites like The Ivy’s Festive Shepherd’s Pie, a hearty combination of goose, turkey, duck, braised lamb, and beef, topped with mashed potato, cranberry chutney, and orange zest. Other options include the Lobster Linguine, featuring tender lobster in a roasted garlic and chilli sauce, and the Pan-Fried Sea Bass, served with creamed potato, samphire, tomato concasse, and saffron sauce.

For dessert, guests can choose from options like The Ivy Chocolate Bomb, a decadent melting dome with vanilla ice cream, honeycomb, and hot caramel sauce, or a creamy Crème Brûlée accompanied by winter berry cinnamon compote and shortbread.

As midnight approaches, diners can raise a glass to the New Year, celebrating with loved ones amidst circus-inspired cheer and the thrill of the countdown.

The festivities don’t end there; The Ivy Collection will also offer a flavour-packed New Year’s Day Brunch to help guests start 2025 on a high note. From a savoury Bloody Mary to hearty dishes like The Ivy Truffle Burger with thick-cut chips, Chicken Supreme Milanese with Truffle Sauce, or a comforting Lentil and Aubergine Bake, the brunch menu caters to all tastes and ensures a delicious recovery from the night before.

The New Year’s Eve set menu is available to book now at restaurants nationwide* starting from £87.50 per person, while the New Year’s Day Brunch is offered in select locations, starting at £34.95 per person.

*Terms & conditions apply. Prices vary by location.

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Top Christmas Wine Essentials

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Round & About Magazine’s resident wine columnist Giles Luckett recommends this year’s Christmas wine essentials.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and while they say Christmas is all about the children, this is one big kid who’s looking forward to opening some adult Christmas crackers this year. Christmas offers so many opportunities for enjoying a glass of something special and to give you some inspiration – or vinspriation (I got that one out of a cracker, can you tell?) – here are my top 10 Christmas wine (and spirit) essentials.

First up, champagne – well it is Christmas. I’ve tasted a lot of champagnes this year, some of the finest of which I reviewed in my recent champagne article. One that’s stuck with me is the Laytons Brut Reserve (£33.95). I worked for Laytons in the late 1990s and Laytons was a firm favourite with customers and staff alike and it was great to taste it again after so many years. Chardonnay-based it has a lovely lightness of touch, offering a fresh bouquet of citrus and white blossoms with a creamy, yeasty undertow. The delicacy continues in the mouth, but the long bottle ageing shows towards the finish as notes of toasted brioche, apricots and honey come through. A lovely way to start the day, it has enough oomph to partner hors d’oeuvres or smoked fish starters.

If you’re looking for beauty on a budget, then make a beeline for the Graham Beck Pinot Noir Rosé 2017 (Majestic £19 on a mixed six). This is going to make my top ten wines of the year and I’ll be serving it at home. At under £20, this is a great buy. Salmon pink with tiny red gold bubbles lifting notes of raspberries, strawberries and cream, and limes into the air, this beautiful wine entrances from the off. The medium-bodied palate offers red berries, cherries, and blackberries with rather more exotic notes of limes, coconut and Asian spices. Lovely on its own, it also pairs well with food such as smoked fish or brown turkey meat.

Next up the first of two delicious, but very different, French wines. The first is the Gérard Bertrand Orange Gold 2022 (Majestic £12.99). Orange wines get their name from their distinctive colour, in this case, a mid-apricot orange, colour they get from the juice resting on the skins as you do with red wines. This delightful example is Chardonnay-led but has support from Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne, Mauzac and Muscat which give it fragrance and complexity. Medium-bodied but with noticeable texture, here you’ll find everything from apples and melon to apricots, to dried pears and lemon rind. It’s a fascinating wine that goes perfectly with all kinds of white meats.

Hugel is one of the greatest names in wine. This Alsace domaine was founded in Riquewhir in 1639 by Hans Ulrich Hugel and has been family-owned ever since. They produce some of the most profound dry Rieslings in the world and this Christmas I’ll be pairing the turkey with a bottle (or two!) of the Hugel Classic Riesling 2022 (London End Wines £19.50). I’m a huge fan of dry Riesling, but the intensity and depth of flavour in Hugel’s wines take the breath away. The nose is zesty, full of mineral-tinted citrus, and green apples while on the palate there are lemons, limes, white peach and grapefruit with touches of apricot and pistachio. Give this a couple of hours open and serve with white meats, seafood, or creamy cheese.

Red wines are always popular at Christmas, and while many wine lovers reach for a bottle of red Bordeaux to partner the turkey, goose or their rich vegetarian centrepiece, there are better, more interesting choice to be made. The key to partnering red wines with foods such as this is intensity and juiciness. Turkey, goose, and other game birds can be dry, and all have a richness of flavour that takes something with a persistence of flavour to cut through. The following wines have all proved great partners in the past.

Burgundy is perfect with all forms of poultry and game birds, but red Burgundy prices have risen so high even in recent years that unless you’re planning to spend Christmas on your yacht you may want to look elsewhere. A joyful exception to this distasteful rule is the Louis Jadot Bourgogne Cote d’Or 2021 (Majestic £29.99, £22.49 when you buy any six). This is an affordable taste of Burgundian luxury. Deeply coloured, the bouquet offers cherries, blackberries, mushrooms and a hint of seasonal cranberries. In the mouth, it’s clean and fresh with a delightfully silky texture and offers and abundance of fruits of the forest, cherries, plums and a mint and mineral finish. Gorgeous.

And so, to Rioja but with an even greater weight of mellow fruitiness, we have the Baron de Ley Gran Reserva 2017 (Vinissimus £20). Gran Reserva Riojas are only made in great years and by law must spend at least two years in oak and three years in bottle before release. This long ageing mellows the fruit, adds a spicy vanilla tone and creates some of the finest wines Rioja can offer. The Baron de Ley Gran Reserve is a mighty mellow mouthful. The nose contains aromas of fresh toast, ripe black fruits, red berries, spices and tobacco. The generously full-bodied palate is juicy and complex. Baked black berries and sun-warmed black cherries are coated with creamy vanilla before the firm, fresh finish adds life and intensity.

If you’re feeling adventurous this Christmas, try the Chateau Musar ‘Hochar’ 2019 (Vimum £12.85). Chateau Musar is Lebanon’s greatest wine estate, and this is their second wine, the younger brother if you will, to Chateau Musar (Waitrose £41.99) and shares much of it characteristics. Produced from an unusual blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Cinsault grapes (think Bordeaux meets Rhone meets Languedoc) it’s rich and full-bodied with flavours of plums, cherries, sloes, and blackberries. Ageing in oak gives it a spicy tone and having been grown at high altitude it has a delightful red berry freshness.

And speaking of adventurous wines, how about a red dessert wine? While they are relatively rare, I’ve had plenty of sweet red wines over the years. Many are fortified such as the brilliantly bonkers Zuccardi Malamado Fortified Malbec (N.D. John Wines £17.45) but the Masi Angleorum Recioto Classico (Hic! £28) takes a rather different route to sweetness. Healthy grapes (Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara) from Veneto hillsides are dried on bamboo racks over the winter months. This has the effect of concentrating the sugars while elevating the aromatics. These are pressed and the resulting wine is lusciously sweet and full-bodied but with sufficient natural acidity to keep the wine fresh and vibrant. Offering a beguiling combination of preserved cherries, prunes, and bitter chocolate, with a touch of mocha and raspberry liqueur, this is a stylish partner to gorgonzola cheese, sweet pastries and tarts or as an after-dinner sipper.

I’ll leave the wines on a high with a Port. I’m a subscriber to the adage that Port is for life, not just for Christmas, and after tasting a wine as good as the Warre 1985 (MWH Wines £87) I’m sure you’ll be one too. 1985 was a truly outstanding year for vintage Port and the best wines are now drinking superbly. The Warre 1985 has retained much of its youthful Victoria plum colour with just a hint of ruby visible at the rim. The bouquet is a showstopping mix of dried black fruits, Morello cherries, chocolate, dried herbs, almonds, and smoke. Massive and rich in the mouth, the sweetly toned black fruits are complimented by flavours of coffee, black treacle, crushed nuts, pomegranate, mint and cocoa. Wonderful on its own, open and decant this beauty and enjoy with cheeses or fruity puddings.

I’ll finish my Christmas essentials with a couple of winter-warming spirits. The first is the Adnams Sloe Gin (Adnams £29.95). I’ll be honest I find most sloe gins are just a waste of good gin, being either teeth-rottingly sweet or bone dry but with red berry tones simply acting as a distraction to the gin’s botanicals. This though is excellent. Cherry red, there’s a touch of perfume to the nose which helps lift the sweet cranberry fruit and dry herby notes of the base spirit. The palate is voluptuous and warming – the 26% alcohol makes its presence felt – but clean and tangy. Maybe it’s me, but this tastes like a great gin cocktail rather than a Sloe Gin. Whatever the case, neat or with a dash of tonic, it’s delicious.

Last but by no means least we have Adnams Rye Malt Whisky (Adnams £42.99). In my early trade days, I got quite into whisky but as I’ve got older, I drink it less and less. That said I do like an after-dinner snifter at Christmas, and this is the perfect choice. Produced in Suffolk using locally grown rye, it’s aged in new French oak for at least five years. This oak ageing is at the core of my love of this. It adds a creaminess and an apricot and honey sweetness, imparting a creamy mouthfeel, a ginger spiciness, and a raisin fudge tone. Add a drop of tepid water and you have a joyous sundowner.

Well, that’s it for me this year. I’ll be back next month to celebrate Australia Day with some cool climate Australian wine stunners.

Cheers, and Happy Christmas,
Giles

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Christmas Sparkling Wine Guide  

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Round & About Magazine’s resident wine columnist Giles Luckett recommends some fabulous festive fizz that will make your Christmas sparkle

With the holiday season now a cork’s throw away, I thought I’d share some recommendations for festive fizz that won’t break the bank. Champagne prices have risen sharply over the past few years. This has been partly a hangover from the pandemic, partly as a succession of great vintages has pushed up demand. As I said in my recent article on The Best Champagnes of The Year, many champagnes are seriously expensive, but great sparkling wine can still be affordable.

Once upon a time, sparkling wine was something best avoided. In my early trade days, it was often sold under that chilling euphemism, ‘party wine’. It was usually cheap, made from grapes as (ig)noble as Mauzac or Treabbiano using a tank and a giant bicycle pump and had all the joy of a wake. It took non-French winemakers, notably in Spain and the New World, to show that sparkling wine could be serious and great value for money. Today, the wine world is awash with cracking sparkling wines offering beauty on a budget and here are my recommendations for sparkling wines that will be the life and soul of the party.

First up, a Prosecco, the Terra Organica (Sainsbury’s £12). This is one of the best Prosecco I’ve had in a long time I’m mid-way down the second glass it’s become cloying and insipid. The Terra Organica avoids this, I suspect, through cool fermentation and by giving it time on its lees (yeast and other elements left over after fermentation), it certainly has a savoury, creamy edge to the pear and peach fruit. Great on its own, this has the intensity and weight to partner with salty appetisers or smoked fish.

Next, a Cava. I had to drink, sorry, think, long and hard about this one as there are so many excellent Cava’s out there. The Cune Cava (Majestic £10 on a mixed 6), the Roger Goulart Brut Reserva (N.D. John £15.95), and the Contevedo Cava Brut (Aldi £5.79) are all great wines. But the one that’s consistently stood out for me this year is the Vilarnau Brut Reserva Organic Cava (Ocado £11). Vilarnau takes Cava incredibly seriously, using organically framed grapes from their own vineyards to produce a dazzling wine that’s fruit-driven and characterful. The nose is a joyous mix of flowers, red and white berries, yeasty, and blackberries. In the mouth, it’s full, and creamy, and offers layers of white and yellow fruits interspersed with red berries, and a clean, lively finish. Enjoy this lightly chilled with olives, blinis, and other savoury party foods.

English sparling wine has been the toast of the trade of late, and while some have got the eye-poppingly pricey – the Nyetimber 1086 Rosé Prestige Cuvée will set you back £175, about the same as a bottle of Dom Perignon – many remain well priced. Take the Tesco English Sparkling Wine (£18.50 with a Clubcard). Made at the award-winning Balfour winery in Kent from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, it offers tangy green and red berry fruits, crisp green apple and pear tones and a lovely creamy yeastiness to the finish. A class act, a glass or two of this would be a fine way to toast the big day.

New Zealand has proved to be a whizz with fizz. This isn’t much of a surprise given the splendour of its still Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines and the talented winemaking team at Villa Maria have built on their successes with these noble vines to produce the Villa Maria Sparkling Cuvee Brut (Sainsbury’s £14). This is a wine that’s easy to love. Everything about it, from its soft blossom and pear nose to its plump, textured body of peach, grape and honeydew melon, is easy drinking but complex and satisfying. It’s also one of those wines that makes you wonder if sparkling wine bottles are smaller, for no sooner have you opened it than it’s empty.

Riesling is arguably the greatest grape variety in the world. Few (if any) grapes can produce wines of such majesty in such an array of styles, from bone-dry stunners such as the Hugel Classic Riesling (Majestic £22.99) to luscious, sweet wines that can age for decades such as the Dr. Loosen Beerenauslese (Noble Green Wines £19.90). It can also produce exceptional sparkling wines as the Von Buhl Riesling Brut 2019 (Laithwaites £22 or £17.99 when you buy any 12) proves. This is a curious wine, that seems to meld two distinct styles. On the one hand, it’s a fresh, concentrated Riesling, green apples, nectarines, minerals and flowers, while on the other, it has an apricot, dried pear and honey richness from the extended bottle ageing. An intoxicating combination, like all good Rieslings this is a wine for the mind and the mouth.

Want to add a touch of bling to the season? Then pop open a bottle of the Bottega ‘Gold’ Prosecco (Majestic £19). There’s more to this wine than meets the eye, which is saying something. Produced at an estate that can trace its roots back to the 17th century, it’s made from grapes grown in Valdobbiadene – the finest Prosecco-producing area – with an attention to quality and detail that’s more commonly associated with champagne. The bouquet offers aromas of orchard fruits, citrus, pears and salty-creamy yeast tone. The palate is richer and weightier than most Prosecco’s and the fruit flavours go beyond the usual pears and nectarines to lemon and lime, raspberry and rhubarb. Impressive, this is a wine to enjoy chilled as an aperitif or with cold white meats.

I couldn’t write a fizz column and not mention the winery that provides our house fizz, but rather than recommend the Graham Beck Vintner’s Selection (Tesco £13.50), I’m going for something else from their improbably impressive range, the Graham Beck Rosé Brut NV (Waitrose £16.99). The main difference between the white and the rosé Beck, aside from the gorgeous pink colour, is that the rosé has just a bit more red berry fruit and is a touch riper. Now your eyes will deceive you when it comes to tasting wine and seeing a rosé wine the brain will leap to a load of conclusions as to what it thinks you should taste and these will show up on the palate. Practice, and a little blind tasting, can help you see what’s there and not what you think should be there. I’ve tasted these two against each other blind and there’s more raspberry and strawberry fruit to the rosé and a little less of the exotic coconut and Asian herbs you find in the white. A great wine that’s a steal at this price, I can see us needing a bigger recycling bin by New Year.

Next time out, Christmas wines.

Cheers!
Giles

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