Sanderson Young Magazine

PREMIER PROPERTIES& FABULOUS FEATURES

collectionAutumn | Winter 2011 2.95

COUNTRY MANSIONFor sale spectacular Celtic Manor

FASHIONISTAA celeb designer who puts the glam into glamorous

HOT SHOTSTwo men, one woman, and lots of gun dogs

SKY AT NIGHTA night with the stars in Englands darkest forest

N

WWW.CLOSEHOUSE.CO.UK

C

5e 12C

A beautiful location close to Newcastle Spacious and luxurious rooms

e nest furniture and details to be remembered e perfect place to celebrate aer your big day.

No.19 the luxurious new club house Where traditional meets contemporary design

...less than 8 miles from Newcastleas unique as you are

CLOSE HOUSE HOTEL & GOLF, HEDDON ON THE WALL, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE15 0HT

TELEPHONE 01661 85 22 55 WWW.CLOSEHOUSE.CO.UK

Close House Hotel & Golf is an elegant and beautiful18th century mansion set in stunning Northumberlandcountryside with two 18 hole golf courses that youllwant to play again and again.

5e wonderful Northumbrian landscape envelops the contouredfairways to create a destination for the discerning golfer. Whetherchallenging your skill on the greens or relaxing in the comfort of No 19club house lounge and restaurant, our professional sta6 and extensivelist of facilities make playing at Close House a luxurious experience.

Close House also makes the perfect venue for o6site businessmeetings, corporate events, special celebrations and christmas parties.

We recently opened the new Courtyard at Close House. 5e 12Courtyard rooms o6er the highest quality bedrooms to make you feel even more special.

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hroughout much of 2011 the London market has seen rising house prices due to excess demand and a shortage of supply. The international buyer is certainly keen to invest in the UK and the international

headquarters of London city. It is clear that, to manypeople, the UK still provides a very safe haven forproperty investment.Property prices have readjusted over recent years andrealistic pricing is still required in many locations toachieve sales.Turbulence in the European market, with the restructuring of sovereign debt from many of its members, will continue to create increased pressureon banks throughout those countries, and in suchtimes increasing numbers of people are beginning to reflect that property is the safest location for investment.In the North East of England we are selling the majority of properties at 2003 prices and, as we approach 2012, increasing numbers of economists are telling us that our supply of housing stock is woefully inadequate for the increasing demand of thenext three years. This can only lead to one thing; increased values.Over the last six months our company has been involved in a great number of exciting developments,including the sale of four prime residential development sites, where, for the first time in fiveyears, we saw very competitive bidding from buyerswanting the land to build on.We are very excited about some of our residential development schemes which we are looking forwardto launching in 2012, as well as the ongoing developments we have, ranging from the magnificentGlororum development, near Bamburgh, to the fabulous modern apartments in the heart of Pontelandvillage, as well as good quality family homes in theTyne Valley and, at the coast, at Seaton Delaval.Sanderson Young have always been known for theirskills in working with builders to satisfy demand in aspecific location, assist with pricing the scheme correctly and developing a good strong marketingbrief to ensure the scheme can be sold quickly.The latest version of our website was launched in September 2011 and the activity from that website hasdoubled from the previous version. Clever new media,promoting houses of the week, matching applicantsearches and tempting those who are browsing, are increasing our results and volumes of valuations, viewings and sales agreed.As we go to press one of the featured houses in ourrare! collection in the heart of Jesmond, which wasonly launched two weeks ago, at a guide price of 1.4

million, has had six viewings and three oers and I amdelighted to see that confidence for prime Newcastlehousing priced at 1 million plus is beginning to return. There are many clients who carefully watch the housing market, ready to buy and re-invest in luxury housing.Increasing numbers of rental houses have balancedthe books between those who wish to buy and owntheir own home and those who want the flexibility tomove very quickly, without long term obligations. Aword of caution for those who are renting pleasewatch the mid and high value housing very closely,since we are beginning to see house prices higherthan where they were at the peak of the market in2006, particularly in Jesmond and Gosforth. This isvery much evident with Edwardian terraces and good quality semi detached family homes in the mid price categories. It is the first time demand has outstripped supply.Sanderson Young are delighted to be working withGentoo Homes, who have a fabulous scheme in Alnwick. They are oering some tremendous financepackages, which are making it very easy for first timebuyers to invest in property and to own their ownhome. It is increasingly important that builders and

t

developers work with banks to further develop thesemortgage deals, as well as part and whole ownership.Many tenants are now paying a greater rent per monththan they would a mortgage, and this imbalanceneeds to be corrected.I would like to congratulate my team for their tremendous dedication in a dicult market and fortheir expertise in bringing results to their clients. Weare aware from the statistics in the prime residentialareas that we are outperforming the majority of otherestate agents, giving good solid advice on how best to sell and how to use the most eective forms of marketing through websites, the Sanderson YoungApp and quality promotion like this magazine, as wellas regional press.As European leaders and worldwide bankers negotiatefigures that few of us can really understand, we quietlyreflect in the North of England on a brighter and moreconfident six months ahead. If you have any housing needs, whether to buy, sell,rent or finance, please speak to any of my team forsolid, dependable and straight forward advice. I am available at:[email protected] or 0191 223 3500.

They are oering some tremendous finance packages,

which are making it very easy for first time buyers to invest in property

SY | SANDERSON YOUNG

safe houses

are reflecting that the future for the housing market looks

strong and solid.

Over the summer of 2011 many property professionals

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This most contemporary property

echoes the grand halls of history

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SY | HOMES

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HOMES | SY

with cushion head rests, digital controls and a largeplasma screen TV built into the limestone wall. There are two contemporary wash hand basins set into black granite with walnut drawers beneath and mirrored cabinets above, a double shower and wetroom concealed behind a glazed panel with side jetsand coloured spotlighting. The 6.5 acre gardens and grounds surrounding CelticManor are extremely impressive and at the front of the approach to the house there is a tree-lined avenue and private drive. Entry to the private grounds is via an electrically operated sliding gate with closed circuit TV surveillance and entry telephone. The site is screened by magnificent tall trees and has beautifulopen lawned gardens with pebbled and stone flagged paths.And for the home with everything, a triple garage witheverything, including electrically operated up-and-over timber panelled doors, and for the children of thishome, an outdoor soft play area with swings, slide andtimber Wendy house perfect for childish dreams of ahome just like this one. Celtic Manor, Gubeon Wood, Tranwell Woods, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 6BH is availablefor sale through Sanderson Youngs rare! oce,High Street, Gosforth, Newcastle, tel 0191 2233500. Price on Application

Celtic Manors pool and

spa features spectacular lighting and glazed doors

If you are looking for the ultimate fireplace concept but are unable to find exactly what you want then The Fire Studioare the people to talk to. We oer a complete design, supply and installation service. Using materials such as glass, steel,marble and granite, oering various solutions including fully remote controlled gas and wood burners that you justwon't find in your local High Street store.

The Fire Studio is the leading company in the North East, providing a range of high quality bespoke designed fireplaces.

Over 25 years of experience in Bespoke fireplace design

THE fIRE sTudIO Unit 12C, Airport Ind Estate, Kingston Park, Newcastle | Tel: 0191 286 6182 | www.thefirestudio.co.uk

LETTHE fIRE sTudIOCREATE THE fIREPLACE yOu'VEALwAys wANTEd BuT COuLd NEVER fINd.

A fIREPLACE Is NOT ONLy A HEATING APPLIANCE ITs A LIFESTYLE CHOICE

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Rosie McGlade visits

Newcastle is about to welcome a new concept in bistro dining, with a fabulous

range of small sharing dishes and aordable wine. good

collection | 17

FOOD & DRINK | SY

ts 8.30am, and the sun is streaming through the windows as business people, mothers with little ones and assorted others sit down to a bacon sandwich and a latte, looking on as other customers drop by for a cappuccino

to take to work. Duncan Young jumped when the opportunity came up to take over the running of Caf No. 95 in the High Street, Gosforth, at the start of the year, and is genuinely delighted with how popular it has become. Its a family aair; Duncans eldest son Charlie has apart time job, as does his god daughter Rachael. There is Illy coee, Chai teas, croissants and baconrolls, gourmet jacket potatoes, homemade cakes andpaninis in a simple enough but quality menu that hasall-round appeal. Now, while holding with this basic premise - and with an alcohol licence already in place - there are adventurous plans afoot.A little background for those who dont know: Duncan is MD of Sanderson Young estate agency

with a branch next door, a leading flag-flyer for theGosforth area and a lover of good food, good wine,and good company. In which case, broadening the appeal of No. 95 to create an evening bistro is inevitable. Now fully licensed and with the kitchen build ongoingin the basement, Duncan hopes one day to build onto the pavement with a Paris-style concertina

window extension to be kept open or shut accordingto the weather. In the meantime, the caf mood willtransform nightly with table cloths, music, lighting,quality crockery and glass to create a bistro which isclose to Duncans heart.The feel of the place will be very dierent to what youget during the day, he says. Were planning to run aninternational menu, based on the idea of Spanish- >>

quality crockery and glass to create a bistro which is close to his heart

the caf mood will transform nightly with table cloths music, lighting,

i

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SY | FOOD & DRINK

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oChamonix, renowned for its near death experience o-piste skiing,

is surprisingly welcoming to lovers of winter sports of all levels,

providing an unforgettable holiday even for the intermediate, says Rosie McGlade

kiing is one of lifes great equalisers, at least for those whose personal image is largely rooted elsewhere. You may be important at work, wildly intelligent or gifted with figures, but the slopes will have you

branded according to your ability to conquer themalone, with intermediate the moniker lumped on themajority of enthusiasts, try as we will to bend ze kneesin all the right places.In one very special sense, Chamonix is the championof this noble once-a-year die-hard, the courageous butdoomed-to-be average Brit, who finds him or herselfbarred from the fabled descents of the beautiful people elsewhere in the world.Of all the runs in all the world, the one that thrills theheart of many is the Vallee Blanche, a 17km o-pisteadventure in some of the most beautiful and dramatic

scenery in the Alps, longer with good snow in the valley, in the shadow of Mont Blanc, across glaciers,and, almost uniquely, given its credentials, within easyscope of intermediate skiers. You even access it by lift.Yes, it will terrify you, but not once you have your skison and you begin your descent, in its silence and staggering beauty, down the valleys gentle blue andred gradients, and superbly flattering snow. The scary bit comes right at the start, when you haveto rope up to walk to where it all begins, skis and polesin hand, down an exposed ridge with lethal drops oneither side, and which makes great sense of hiring oneof the resorts many ski guides. That, and negotiationof the crevasses further down.The standard advice is that you do the run towards theend of a weeks skiing, when your head for heights issteadied, and your legs that bit stronger. The rewardsare a once-in-a-lifetime skiing experience, where theword unforgettable can be properly applied.While mostly fabled for extremists, attracted to

s Chamonixs true hard-core challenges (of which thereare a great many - advanced skiers will be pleased toknow they can choose much more dangerous optionseven down the Vallee Blanche), the sort who wouldnt get out of bed without an ice axe in hand (the Chamonerds), Chamonix is in fact pretty accommodating to all winter visitors. It has a Chanel shop, for those who like that sort ofthing, or like looking at it in any case, lots of other coolboutiques and trendy sportswear emporia, an attractive town centre with a proper traditional heart,

the one that thrills

the heart of many is the Vallee Blanche, a 17km o-piste adventure in some

of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery in the Alps

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TRAVEL | SY

Situated on the edge of the woods with breath-takingviews of Mont Blanc, the Cerisier is a luxurious four-storey chalet built in traditional Alpine style in itsown huge garden area. The chalet, sleeping 1012, has been designed to accentuate light and space with high ceilings andlarge windows opening straight towards the Drus,making the most of its unique setting in the valley. It isperfectly secluded, yet in easy reach of ski lifts, summer trails and the amenities of Chamonix town.Among its many fantastic facilities are an outdoor hottub, a wrap-around seating balcony capturing views inall directions, a six person sauna, log fire, satellite TV,DVD collection, X-Box 360, a snug / cinema room, pooltable and dart board, and electric boot warmers. The ground floor bedroom forms part of a self-contained apartment with its own living, dining andkitchen area, with a further bedroom adjoining, andthree more bedrooms and bathrooms on the first andsecond floors. Guests choose the type of holiday they want. The self-catering option has a regular cleaner and optional daily continental breakfast delivery, and organisationof all ski hire, lift passes, lessons and ski guides, whilethe fully-catered holiday provides a totally bespokeservice that is exactly as you want it, with chefs, chaueurs and a masseuse just the start!

ChaletCerisierLEs BOIs, CHAMONIX

unlike so many other French stations, real local shops,where you can buy lovely cheese and cakes, andtheres lots of great walking. It is, therefore, not a bad place at all to end up forthose who dont actually ski or snowboard, but whoare there for the mountain air and beauty and theaprs, and because their partner does.You can also go all international and get the bus toCourmayeur in Italy for a pasta lunch. Chamonix is just an hour from Geneva Airport, whichgives it a vastly reduced transfer time than many

comparable resorts. There are flights most days between Newcastle and Geneva (check out EasyJet.) Skiing in Chamonix takes place from six separate liftstations, connected by ski bus as it is not possible toski between them all. If you are beyond intermediate, then the scope for o-piste skiing is enormous and its easy to hire aguide to take you through the fabled Grands Montets region. However, if youre building up to the Vallee Blanche, orenjoy a more laid back time on the slopes amongsome of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, thereare a good selection of gentle, open pistes and tree-lined runs at Les Houches and La Balme.Whether a skier or not, you must take the legendaryAiguille du Midi cable car to the top, and get out andadmire the view of the world from 3,800 metres.Its a hairy ride, and youll most certainly be needing adrink at some point afterwards. More good news -Chamonixs reputation extends from amazing skiing towild or sophisticated nightlife, depending how youlike it. Theres a great selection of bars and clubs, andsome fantastic restaurants, the king of which is the Albert 1er with its two Michelin stars. Chamonix is surprisingly accommodating to children,too, and the resort is very popular with French families.Away from the slopes, theres a swimming pool and an

ice rink, and its easy to organise tobogganing, snowtubing or husky rides. There are a number of good nursery slopes and easyruns, with lots of nice blue runs in Brevent and La Tour,with Les Houches perfect for beginners.Something for everyone and jolly easy to get to. Whatmore do you want? Fabulous accommodation peut-etre? Well, we have a suggestion here, too.

If you are beyond intermediate,

then the scope for o-piste skiing is enormous

at www.sandersonyoung.co.uk/holiday_introductions

To book, see sanderson young Holiday Introductions

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holidayintr

escape

sT sTEPHANO, CORfu

North east Corfu is one of the loveliest areas this beautiful island has to oer and Aleka is a charmingproperty built in the style of the traditional Corfiot country cottage, though with a lot more space and to a higher specification than the termmight suggest. The villa is on a hillside overlooking St Stephano Bay and has open-plan living spaces and beautiful gardens and grounds withpool and terraces.

sLEEPs 4750 TO 1,750 PER wEEk, dEPENdING ON THE sEAsON

VillaAleka -Corfu

RIVIERA Of fLOwERs, ITALy

The Italian Riviera is much dreamed of and never forgotten; a paradise of sun, sea and mountainsrenowned as one of the loveliest spots in the world. Villa Crystal is built into the landscape andblessed with panoramic views from mountain ranges to the bay of Bordighera, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday in a modern, spacious property with beautiful gardens, terraces, a pool and hot tub.

sLEEPs 10-121,800 - 3,600 PER wEEk, dEPENdING ON THE sEAsON

VillaCrystal -Italy

LAs BRIsAs, PuERTO BANus, sPAIN

Malaga is the gateway to one of Spains lovelieststretches of coastline and Villa Natasha, which is just minutes from the fashionable port of PuertoBanus, is the epitome of open-plan, contemporary luxury. With five bedrooms, six bathrooms, two living rooms, a cinema room and views over Las Brisas Golf and La Concha Mountain, the villa also has separate sta quarters, a pool, sauna and bodega.

sLEEPs 10-1212,000 EuRO PER wEEk

VillaNatasha -spain

to the owners of luxury villas in some of the worlds most sought-after locations

SY | HOLIDAY INTRODUCTIONS

thegreatSanderson Young Holiday Introductions takes travellers direct

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roductionssT sTEPHANO, CORfu

Situated in beautiful north east Corfu, not far from the Rothschild family castle and overlooking St Stepahnos beautiful horseshoe bay, Villa Damianos is a magnificent three-storey villa with spacious living spaces and beautiful grounds. Its views extend to Albania and the grounds feature terraces and a pool. Close to the bay and within easy reach of local boat hire, Damianos is a perfect holiday setting.

sLEEPs 41,400 TO 3,500 PER wEEk, dEPENdING ON THE sEAsON

Villadamianos -Corfu

sT TROPEz, fRANCE

La Chenoiserie is fully staed and the last word in luxury, oering spacious accommodation in the main property and garden cottage and set in a gated community within an acre of beautiful grounds with a pool, terraces and views over St Tropezbay. The villa is within walking distance of a fabulousbeach, restaurants and bars and the famed BeauvallonBeach Club, and within easy reach of golf and tennis facilities.

sLEEPs 8-127,000 -10,000 PER wEEk

LaChenoiserie -france

CHAMONIX, fRANCE

Chalet Cerisier lies in a superb spot on the edge of the woods in Les Boise with a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc. This luxurious four-storey chalet is built in traditional Alpine style and has high ceilings and large windows, making the most of itsunique setting. It is secluded but also close to ski lifts, summer trails and the many amenities of Chamonix town.

sLEEPs 10-12PRICE ON APPLICATION

ChaletCerisier -france

HOLIDAY INTRODUCTIONS | SY

for further information please contact:T: +44 (0)191 2233500 | f: +44 (0)191 2233505 | [email protected] | www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

The Old Bank, 30 High street, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 1LX

BOOkINGs TAkEN NOw fOR 2011 ANd 2012

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here can be few things in life as daunting as interviewing a fashion designer; particularly one who is renowned for glamour.So it was with some trepidation that I set o to see Kate Fearnley, whose designs grace

the backs of red carpet regulars such as singers SarahHarding, Sophie Ellis Bextor and Pixie Lott, TV presenter Zoe Salmon, even Katie Prices bridesmaids(wedding number three).So what does one wear for such an appointment?In the event, an unremarkable but comfortable ensemble of jeans, stripy shirt and tank top, heels and a statement bag. And no, I neednt have worried;Kate Fearnley is a very down-to-earth fashionista and on this particular wet Monday in Middlesbroughshe is resplendent in - wait for it leggings and a vest top. In other words, Kate is more comfortabledown the pub than gracing the red carpet. In fact, she is so un-fussy, so un-obsessed by style, appearance and ego (unlike so many in her profession)its almost disappointing.This doesnt last long, however. My tolerance for theadmittedly clichd narcissism, self-obsession andjudgemental nature of many in the high fashion set is generally pretty low and Kate makes for a very refreshing change. Theres no glamour in this job and I hardly ever wear adress, she laughs as we rifle through racks of her designs, all of them extremely glamorous, ultra-feminine and exquisitely detailed.It strikes me that if I were asked to guess her job Idprobably go for artist, indie songwriter or poet; certainly nothing that generally attracts a pursuer oflife in the limelight.She tells a lovely story of the night of the 2010 Cosmopolitan Awards, when she was presented with a

highly prestigious Young Fashion Entrepreneur of theYear award.It was just very, very surreal, she says, shaking herhead, as if still not quite sure it really happened. There were all these mega celebs, and some amazingpeople whod won awards for all sorts of courageousacts, and theres me. I felt I shouldnt have been there at all.I was really nervous and literally spoke for about 20seconds before running o stage. Then, after Id had abit too much to drink, they told us wed all been invited to Downing St the next day, and we had to bethere at 8am!Kate was horrified, but took being presented to thethen-PMs wife Sarah Brown in her stride. She was justlovely, thank God, she says.One imagines Kate was relieved to head home afterwards to her native Middlesbrough, where shecan go to work in her jeans and spend her evenings inthe pub.And while she may not be entirely comfortable on theparty circuit, her dresses most certainly are.Renowned for sexy, flattering cuts, her bold use of colour and liberal use of texture with >>

t

There were all these mega celebs

and some amazing people whod won awards for all sorts of courageous acts and theres me,

I felt I shouldnt have been there at all

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home sweethome

omeone has just had a fag in the kitchen as we step inside Healey Hall, and the dogs, as usual, are everywhere (there seem way more than four); theres a gorgeous-looking young man making tea who must be the son, while

the daughter is still in bed. Its homely as much as it is beautiful. How do they do that? And how does anyone get to have this much good taste? How do these people find eachother - the landed son and the fabulous designer? I tryto act normal. Not that its easy, as the hall itself, while grand, is oneof the most beautiful family homes Ive ever seen, withsomething that compels you to stare at every turn. Its familiar, in that Ive had a good look through theTulip and Nettle website before arriving, and this isclearly where founder and designer Amynta

SY | PROFILE

Rosie McGlade visits the incredible home

of Amynta warde-Aldam - headquarters of the Tulip and Nettle

childrens clothing range

and is smitten...

s

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PROFILE | SY

Warde-Aldam styles the photo shoots which featureher friends children. Its also been in loads of magazines and weekend supplements, Amynta says, which shes fine about solong as it promotes Tulip and Nettle, and which shes very good at making sure happens, as the house itself, and the family heirlooms within, providemuch inspiration.The estate, with its sweeping views over this hidden,sloping stretch of part-arable, part-forested Northumberland, has been in the Warde-Aldam familyfor around 200 years. Amynta married into it, havingoriginated from Edinburgh. She established Tulip and Nettle - a range of very English childrens clothes (with an emerging adultsline) entirely made in Northumberland - when her owntwo children were small, having herself trained andthen taught at the illustrious Central St Martins in London, and worked in the heady European designworld for several years. Its a special local industry we should really be proudof, and which actually sells more than 75 per cent of itsstock to customers in London, who are drawn to thehigh grade design and materials and the story of whatTulip and Nettle is all about. I think I meet Nettle. I certainly meet Violet - shes awiry Jack Russell, the friendliest. Nettle, if its her, isolder, and smooth haired. Tulip was a pug. They haveanother pug now, a waddly thing that struggles tokeep up, and theres a sausage dog in the mix, too. Anyhow, on the back of all this, the name has lost anyresonance of twee that I might once, if Im honest,have attached. As has the range, for that matter, whichreally is fabulous. Its not even that expensive. In facttheres nothing I can write about here with any hint of

the cynical, the cautious. The whole place is a bit of another world. The husband wears red tartan trousers.You just dont see that where I come from. Amynta herself verges on perfect, one of those womenwho could be French, or Italian; petite, good looking,wearing fantastic clothes yet seeming to have madeno eort. Were it not for her big, warm and frequentsmile, shed probably be rather intimidating, but shesactually really friendly, and, well, lovely.Were now in the Hayloft, a large attic room above anold stable block (still with the original wooden stallsinside, all cobwebby, like a storybook scene, which Istumble on by accident as I try to find the way up), astones throw from the hall. The Hayloft itself is a beamed, clean, bright space fullof fragrant rolls of fabrics and the odd sewing machine, ironing board, table with scissors and paperpatterns, and racks of little frocks and jackets andthings. Like another storybook, I suppose. It started in a really teeny way, just when the urgetook me to make something as the children weregrowing up, but its got a bit more serious in the lastfive years, Amynta says, modestly.Its very, very English. We use a lot of country fabrics,moleskin cords and chunky tweeds. Our central piecesare things like our Hero shirt, which is based on an old,pre First World War cricket shirt from the family home.She shows us a striped Eton Rifles coat, the real deal,owned by husband Jamies grandfather before the

Great War. Its beautiful, both in fabric and design, andwould look incredibly cool even today. Indeed, theresa plastic bag of badges attached to it, which her children had it covered with when they wore it asteenagers, which Amynta thought looked wonderful.Im sure some mothers would have been horrified. Its the lining and old label she particularly loves, andwhich have informed her range of clothing. Theres also a chest, made of beautiful red cedar woodto repel bugs, and which has the same grandfathersname, Lieutenant Colonel Warde-Aldam, on a war-timemanila luggage label, another inspiration. It was thechest he took to Egypt, where he fought. So the range is rooted in history, she continues, butwith a modern interpretation. The fabrics we use areincredibly light and soft, theyre not heavy like propervintage clothes. I think thats been the biggest thing thats changed infashion. Even clothes from the 70s, when you pickthem up, they feel really heavy. Now we have fabrics such as very fine polar fleecesthat we might use to line a light cotton dress, andwhich will make it a lovely warm item of clothing forthe winter.This is T&N HQ, but there are a couple of small factoryunits in the county where most of the clothes aremade, and a team of home knitters who do the littlejumpers and cardies and things. Yes, theyve been aected by the economic >>

So the range is rooted in history, she continues,

but with a modern interpretation

The fabrics we use are incredibly light and soft,

theyre not heavy like proper vintage clothes.

30 | collection

not expensive like typical childrens designer labels likeBonpoint. But if theres a particularly depressing economic newsbulletin in the media, we see the eect on sales thevery next day. I guess that heavy consumption has simply gone outof fashion. We try particularly hard now to make

SY | PROFILE

Q UA L I T Y B E R T H I N G O N T H E B E AU T I F U L N O R T H U M B E R L A N D COA S T

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OR SIMPLY VISIT AMBLE MARINA, OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

FIND OUT MORE:

www.amble.co.uk | [email protected] | 01665 712168

N O R T H U M B E R L A N D

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oHOT

The rural economy is benefitting as much as ever before from game shooting.

Jane Pikett meets some of the people

who keep a country tradition in fine fettle

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If youre up on the rural economy these days, youwill know already that game shooting is said to beclose to recession-proof.It is not a poor mans sport, yet shooting days are aspopular as ever on the regions moorlands, widelyconsidered to be among the best in the UK.The sport owes its continuing prosperity to the dedicated souls who keep the game, train the dogsand beat and pick up on shoot days.Theyre the largely unsung heroes of a rural way oflife that brings millions a year to the region andtheyre a dedicated bunch, handing their skills, theircommitment to conservation and their love of thecountry down through the generations.

o JohnThe first time I met John Clark, he greeted me at thedoor of his home with a quiet hello, looked down atthe excitable young Dalmatian doing his best to tie me and him up in knots and slowly raised an eyebrow. Aye, he said, after a long pause. Wed better have alook at him, then.And with that, he strolled o down the lane, me alongside, trying desperately to look like I was in control of my dog while my pet did his best to makeme look stupid.Within a few yards, John had quietly relieved me of mydog and a miracle had him walking meekly to heel.There was no yanking, no shouting, no battle of wits.The dog simply knew his place, and our journey to thebeautifully behaved pet I have now began.Theres a magic about John; a quietly considered, gentle approach which makes dog and human stop and listen.When his gun dogs Labradors, Springer Spaniels andWorking Cockers are with him, they all look to him,their pack leader. There is no doubt who is in charge,and no doubt that Johns quiet, often silent commandsrequire no repeat.I dont shout, says John. You get better results justbeing quiet. And I dont like people who are roughwith their dogs. If I have a problem when Im training ayoung dog, I just stand back and think for a while, andthe answer generally comes.This considered approach has made John a favouritetrainer for gun dog owners and pet owners thosewho keep gun dog breeds and those, like me, whosimply need a steady hand.John and his wife Dot generally breed one litter a year from their Labradors (they have 15 Labradors,Springers and Working Cockers) and the pups from these litters are much sought-after for their superb genes.Johns skills as a trainer are in evidence in his own dogsand the scores trained by him working on shoots allover the region.What do John and Dot, who is fully involved in thebreeding, look for in a dog? A good line, a good temperament, and good looks, he says simply andthe Clark dogs of the Campcolis Stud in Northumberland are all of that and more.Johns love of gun dog training began years ago whenhe was invited on a shoot at Langley in the Tyne Valley.I watched this man work his dog and was just fascinated, he says. That was it, I wanted to do it.That man was George Ridley, another renowned

OUT & ABOUT | SY

and was just fascinated,

I watched this man work his dog

he says. That was it, I wanted to do it

breeder and trainer from the Tyne Valley, and thatshoot was the beginning of a passion for training and working gun dogs which has prevailed for close to 30 years.People bring their dogs to John from far and wide.Some of them including the model Stella Tennantand the Newcastle footballer Fabrizio Coloccini bring a touch of celebrity to the quietNorthumberland countryside where the Clarks live,and these people - and their dogs are welcomed justlike the rest of us. >>

and good looks, he says simply

A good line, a good temperament,

What do you look for in a dog?

34 | collection

to work with the dogs on the shoot, she says.

I went freelance so that I could get the time

I simply love it

This requires long days out in the field, often walkingmany miles in filthy weather carrying heavy game. It allsounds about as far as you can get from her other job- freelance PA and secretarial support for businesses inthe area - and Nicky is passionate about it.I went freelance so that I could get the time to workwith the dogs on the shoot, she says. I simply love it.Dogs are of course central to the successful operationof a game shoot, and their roles are clearly defined.The animals which sit beside the guns are so-calledpeg dogs and they should sit quietly until the end ofthe drive before being allowed to pick up around thepeg area. Then there are the beaters dogs traditionallyspaniels (Working Cockers and Springers) who flushthe game out of the undergrowth, and the picking-updogs traditionally Labradors using their noses torecover shot game in deep heather and woodland,often hundreds of yards away. In reality nowadays you will see all types of gundogbreeds and cross-breeds used in dierent roles in thefield, with spaniels becoming increasingly popular inthe picking up teams.You have to be clear what your dogs function is going to be and assess its aptitude and attitude beforeyou start training it to the task, says Nicky, who addsthat instinct is incredibly strong in dogs bred fromworking lines.They have to have a natural ability for the job, shesays. They have to be biddable and enthusiastic, withnatural curiosity to find things and a desire to workhard, retrieving all day long. They have to want toplease you and you need to form a close working relationship.Nicky has six dogs, including a young Working Cockerwhich she is just beginning to train. She also has tworetrievers, one yellow lab, a Springer and a black Working Cocker.It can take up to two years to train one of these animals to the required standard, so is it the shoot itself, or working with and training dogs that she hasthe most passion for?Oh, working with the dogs, definitely, she says. Thereis nothing more rewarding than channelling that natural instinct into a disciplined activity. The rapportthat you form with your dog is incredible and the dogslove it so much because they are doing what theywere bred to do.Nicky respects the views of those who oppose thesport, but as she points out: The birds live a good natural life on heather moors and open countryside,and game is wild, natural and free range and makes anutritious, tasty meal.

SY | OUT & ABOUT

NickyId assumed in my ignorance that women must be few and far between in the field, but no, says NickyGordon. Women are good organisers, so while theyrecertainly in the minority, you sometimes find them incharge of these burly Northumbrian men, which isoften interesting, she says with a smile.Nicky and her six dogs pick up game for shoots innorth Northumberland up to four times a week duringthe season.

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ColinGamekeeper Colin Lawley is a big country man with abig voice and a big laugh attached.Standing 6ft 3ins, laughter seems to come as easily asbreathing to him, and his guaws shake the northNorthumberland woodland where he tends some7,500 partridge and pheasant for local shoots.Colin, who is known by one and all as Shanks a nickname given to him by a farmer who employed him as a young man who was a good deal skinnierthan he is now also keeps eight dogs for picking upon two shoots.Nearly half his birds will fall prey to the guns duringthe season, while foxes and the roads will take another10 per cent. Shanks will then himself round in springto raise more birds for next year.Its bloody hard work in all weathers, but somehowyou just get stuck in it, he says, with a hearty laugh.Ive been involved in shooting all my life and Im 57now, which shows its just a way of life, he says, adding- with another big laugh - that were he in it for themoney, hed be sorely disappointed.You get into it and you just dont get out of it andthats all there is to it. Youre out in all weather andwhen theres 3ft of snow, youre in that too. But its away of life and thats the great thing about it.Colins children have been involved in shooting sincethey were kids too, and his son Shaun, 22, is a keeperand his daughter, Lisa, 25, helps out on her days ofrom her work as a carer. Colins wife Susan has also been involved over the years, so its a real familyway of life.I tried to persuade my son out of it, says Colin, if only because of the money, but he wouldnt have it. Its a great way of life and youre outside all the time, essentially your own boss. I wouldnt swap it.

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Jesmond | Gosforth | Ponteland | Newcastle

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romantic36 | collection tell Duncan Fisher he reminds me of Willy Wonka, larger-than-life hero of Roald Dahls much-loved fantasy, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He takes it in good heart; you cant oend Duncan, hes good like that.

Anyway, its meant in the nicest possible way. Duncan -natural-born entrepreneur, enthusiast, lover of life has so many ideas buzzing about behind his sparklingbrown eyes its a wonder he can catch them beforethey whiz past.A true entrepreneur, hes always open to opportunity,has no fear and a great sense of fun and has none of the negatives aecting some others (furrowed brow,stress anxiety, heart bypass).Also, as a chartered accountant by trade, he is able tokeep the risk taker in him in check.Hes spent the summer living close to Newton Hall - abeautiful Georgian pile in spectacular coastal northNorthumberland which he is converting into a uniquehotel, members club and quirky wedding venue.

He has a pile of wedding brochures with him; all ofthem saccharin-coated, po-faced, and full of photos of brides and grooms with faces like a wet weekend in Watford. Look at this one, he says, chucking over abrochure featuring a picture of a bride on the run.Shes so bloody miserable, shes running away!Your wedding should be a fantasy; a wonderful, amazing dream, he asserts, and most of all, it shouldbe fun. What happened to that, eh?Weddings at Newton Hall, he says, will be brilliantlyplanned, wonderfully memorable, that bit dierentfrom the norm, and huge fun.Newton Hall will also be the only venue in Northumberland oering outdoor wedding options,

including its own Wedding Hill, an Italianate weddingterrace, and an expansive beach.Duncan has always broken the mould, ever since the early noughties when he brought a flash, private-members bar and club to Newcastle in theshape of The Apartment in Collingwood Street.It was very much of its time moneyed, a bit flash(Dom Perignon at 980 a bottle) but there was substance behind the style. The food, from a kitchenled by the acclaimed David Kennedy, was superb. Theplace itself was beautiful. And the bar sta handedyou your drink, with a coaster, rather than chucking itat you, says Duncan, reflecting on the general tone ofNewcastle nightlife at the time.

i

but it should also be fun. What happened to that then, eh?

Your wedding should be a fantastic dream, a wonderful day, he asserts,

Jane Pikett meets Duncan Fisher, the visionary behind Northumberlands hippest new hotel,

members club and wedding venue, Newton Hall

romanticfantastical

fant

astic

alcollection | 37

His business has grown steadily since under its umbrella company, Apartment Group, which is basedin Newcastle in oces populated by impossibly beautiful, and extremely ecient, young things. The empire now includes the multi award-winning Newcastle venues Floritas Miami Bar and Gardens (Iknow I havent made it up), Madame Koos HiddenBar and Sneaky Disco next door and nine other venuesincluding the award-winning As You Like It; voted 7thSexiest Restaurant in the World by The Observer.They all have a quirky, eccentric vibe, a certain something which has been pitched from way out leftfield and works beautifully.We like to be a bit dierent; that bit quirky, says Duncan with a broad smile, clambering over what iscurrently a building site in the garden of Newton Hall.Look! This is going to be a spectacularly beautiful out-door wedding terrace. Look at that view; 360 degreesof glorious Northumberland countryside. What a placeto get married!Duncan has a magic touch. His venues are consistentlyfresh, always refreshing. Apartment Groups reputationis such that word of Newton Hall has got out monthsbefore it is due to open and weddings have alreadybeen booked for 2012 and 2013. Enthusiastic applications for Newton Halls private members club(they range from 500-2,000 a year, plus a range ofbespoke VIP packages) are also flying in.Meanwhile, mad vintage lampshades now adorn thebar of the Joiners Arms pub, just down the lane inNewton by the Sea, which Duncan bought recently.They are a nod to the quirky motif that prevailsthroughout Fishers venues, and the pub will provideanother welcoming base for guests from the hall.Park the car and relax; thats it, he says. Were applying for direct access to the beach, were going toadd tennis courts, a pool, treatment rooms, hot tubsfor all the suites in the estate cottages, beach huts andmuch more I cant even talk about yet.Newton Hall will be a genuinely unique hotel, members club and wedding venue. It will be uniquelyrelaxed, uniquely fun, and a unique escape. People will come to chill and unwind over weeks orweekends. They may even just come for an afternoonto swim, walk, relax, or bring the kids to see a film inthe screening room. Wedding guests will stay for long, lazy weekends,while the weddings themselves, while being brilliantlyplanned and imaginatively executed, will also be huge fun. Theres no package A, B or C; well work with peoplesown imagination, and if that means an Alice in Wonderland theme complete with the white rabbit,thats what well deliver.Tennis courts and a wild flower meadow are beingadded to beautiful the four-acre grounds, there will bea horse and trap on hand for weddings and any number of fun additions such as tractor rides, beachparties and musicians, and the Halls interior decor will

boldPROFILE | SY

38 | collection

romanticfantasticalSY | PROFILE

Newton Hall hotel, membersclub and wedding venueDuncan Fishers Apartment Group acquired Newton Hallin 2008 and it has been operating until recently as a luxury weekend retreat.It is now being restored and extended to create a uniquehotel, members club and wedding venue which willmajor on fun, relaxation and quirky originality.Our slogan is Bold, Romantic and Fantastical, and Newton Hall will be all that, says Duncan, with a broadsmile. Itll be grand, stylish (if quirkily so), and beautiful,but itll also be a relaxing retreat people wont want toleave. With 21 rooms and suites, itll be a groovy grandretreat in the midst of spectacular Northumbrian coastalcountryside. I cant wait.Newton Hall is taking bookings for weddings andprivate memberships now. Newton Hall, Newton bythe Sea, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 3DZ, tel 01665 576 239, email [email protected] www.newton-hall.com

be fantastically eccentric and very comfortable.The purpose-built function room and Italianate wedding terrace currently under construction on thefootings of the halls original orangery will accommodate up to 150 seated guests, making Newton Hall one of the largest wedding venues in the region.Duncans partner Amanda and their daughters Eden,seven, and nine-year-old Maisie have had a great summer with him at Newton by the Sea.Its the simple pleasures of this place that we love, hesays. Weve had fantastic weekends here, hanging outon the beach, going for walks. Its a spectacular part ofthe world.Hes most excited when I tell him my husband proposed to me on the beach here, all the more sowhen I tell him I had a big celebration weekend at theholiday cottages round the corner.So you know how great it is! he says, those browneyes sparkling. Imagine this when its finished beautiful, fantasy interiors, a totally relaxed place withdirect access to the beach, loads of magical stu forkids, a pub at the bottom of the garden. Its perfect.Fishers vision and his enthusiasm are particularly appealing. Its the Willy Wonka factor; the innate conviction that anything is possible.And Im lucky, he says. Ive got fantastic people working for me [360 of them] and Im happy to delegate. I like to be closely involved in the initial

concept, but then I delegate to really bright people.At home, meanwhile, life is also simple. Family life isimportant, and favourite holidays are family trips tothe Lake District. The girls can do five miles up a hillnow, no problem, he says, proudly. I want to get theminto fishing now.As for everything else in life, its very simple, apart perhaps from brain surgery, he says. And thats howI like it.

weekends up here hanging out on the beach, going for walks

Its the simple pleasures of this place that I love, he says. Weve had fantastic

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The aptly named (for a specialist in outdoor living, anyway) Andrew Wood hears too many horror stories from people whove spent thousands sometimes hundreds of thousands importing improbably tropical

species to decorate impossibly outlandish gardens.The result? A garden full of dead stu. Very expensivedead stu.I tend to think its a good idea to plant species thatwill survive. That helps, says Andrew, Commercial Partner of Newcastle-based outdoor living specialistHortis Vivo.Hortis Vivo brings together highly experienced horticulturalists and designers who work closely withexperts in a variety of specialisms relating to outdoorliving. These include areas such as outdoor recreation,dining, relaxation and of course outdoor lighting anddesign. Tennis courts, swimming pools, water featuresand the like also form part of our portfolio in helpingto create beautiful outdoor living spaces.More and more people are recognising the value ofenhancing their outdoor space - and the value of

investing in their green surroundings when they cometo sell. Hortis Vivo not only project manage outdoorliving developments, it also oers a superior gardenmaintenance programme. If you invest significantly inyour space then you need to protect and nourish yourinvestment with the right help.This is where a good designer comes in. Yes, there area number of things you can do to create a quick fix,says Andrew. But outdoor space should havelongevity. If you want to buy fully grown acacia tressfrom Japan at 20,000 a piece, you can. Unfortunately,the risk is that they die.Andrews top tip? Use someone who knows horticulture. It sounds obvious, but there is a dierence between the qualified horticulturalist andthe gardener who does a sterling job cutting the grassand trimming the hedge.The temptation is to get someone in and just ask for atidy up, says Andrew, but in doing so you can kill osome real hidden gems that could be focal points.Andrew, who uses the phrase act in haste and repentat leisure with regular monotony, advises anyone

t

Andrews top tip?

Use someone who knows horticulture. It sounds obvious, but

there is a dierence between the qualified horticulturalist and the gardener

Selling or settling down for the foreseeable future,

your homes outdoor spaces deserve just as much attention as the interior,

discovers Jane Pikett

LETs GO

collection | 41

GARDENS | SY

who thinks they need a major tidy up to get a horticulturalist in to have a look whats there first there can be some absolute gems hiding in there thatjust beg to be seen. It is also key to understand whatplants and species will survive in our local climate. And for a new property, look first to the style of thehouse and the setting using that, along with yourown taste and personality, to begin your plans.Andrew is one of those instinctive souls almost amind reader, really - who after only half an hour or soin your company is starting to get pretty close to whatmight suit your personality.During our first phone conversation, we fell into talking about my own property my husbands childhood home, which we have just taken on.The garden was planted 30 years ago by my latemother-in-law and hasnt really been thinned outsince. Its a lovely, big country garden but it definitelyneeds taking in hand.Youre in danger of just getting someone in for one ofthose tidy ups people talk about, and you could endup losing some real gems.First and foremost, gardens are very emotive things.You go in there with a scythe and you could just end up ruining it. If you walk the garden with a horticulturalist, he or she will find out lots about you at the same time as seeing the pieces that need to be nurtured.At the end of our first phone call, before hes even seenour garden, Andrew has already worked out much thatI didnt actually know. This he has worked out, quite naturally, simplythrough conversation, and I am actually quite shockedby how accurately he describes a space that wouldperfectly suit us and our property. Its as if hes knownus for years.The sad thing is, you see too many gardens that simply dont fit the property or the people, he says.Its about creating a balance, and that means not creating a minimalistic garden for a country cottage.More and more people understand the value of investing in their outdoor living spaces and the factthat their outside spaces are just as important as theirinterior design.This is obviously important when you come to putyour home on the market, when good use of lighting,landscape design, outdoor buildings, tennis courts,pools and water features are so important.

There is only so much you can do to the inside of your property, but the outdoor space is constantlychanging through the seasons and evolving over the years.I love my morning wander around my garden. I findmyself wandering around, dead heading and notinghow things are progressing. I take something fromthat every day. Its very calming, and there are many,many people who have still to discover the pleasuresof their own garden.As mentioned, Andrew relies strongly on his highly attuned intuition. People, he says, tell him so muchabout themselves, and their tastes, without reallyknowing it.Once you have started talking to someone you soonget an idea of what they want and its from there thatthe design process begins, he says.I know who to design a minimalist garden for, and Iknow who to talk to about a country garden. I can

More and more people understand

the value of investing in their outdoor living spaces

tell pretty quickly when someone wants a statement.And Andrew is happiest when in the presence of Hortis Vivos Horticulturalist, John Taylor. Im mesmerised when I hear him talk, he says. He talks so easily about plants, his knowledge is amazing and inspiring.It seems to me that every home or garden shouldhave one. Watch this green space...HortIs Vivo, tel 07716 353309, email [email protected] websitewww.hortisvivo.co.uk

ne night in August, after his scheduled talk about the stars and the solar system, Gary Fildes took his Kielder Observatory visitors outside, only to see in the Northumberland night sky the most spectacular display of the

Northern Lights he can recall here. The sky just opened up in front of us with this incredible range of colour. It was just serendipity, awesome, he recalls. I couldnt have timed it better.Kielder Observatory, currently the regions number onetourist destination on the online traveler guide Trip

Advisor, is a futuristic, almost space-age building onstilts on Black Fell, about two miles from Kielder Castle. Gary, 45, its founder and director, has loved astronomysince lying down to look up through the branches ofhis Christmas tree at the fairy lights when he was littlein Sunderland.This incredible Observatory is the result of a great lifepassion that grew from that moment for all thingslight, mysterious, and twinkling. Its incredible because its the only one in the countrywhere the sky is truly dark, where there is no light

o

The approaching long dark nights are not all doom and gloom. Rosie McGlade

visits one of the regions top attractions that comes into its own at this time of year

the

at

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OUT & ABOUT | SY

pollution at all. And that makes all the dierence.Weve had people drive up from London for an event and then drive all the way back down when its finished, Gary adds. Not that you get to see the Aurora Borealis here all thetime; you have to be pretty lucky for that. They can appear at any time, though naturally youve a betterchance of seeing them on dark winter nights.But there are other sights that impress equally. For some, its Jupiter or Saturn, for others, its beingable to look through our telescope and see distantgalaxies 500 million light years away. Im incredibly passionate about it. I think astronomy isa humbling experience - many people have said thesame - but it really does ground you, if you let it in a little bit. Its an incredible arena in which to practisebeing a human being, and realise that you are part ofsomething extraordinarily enigmatic and vast.There are now around 14 events each month, each ofwhich pretty much sells out. Therell be more Auroranights during the winter and many others, includingBig Universe nights, looking at events from the BigBang to today. And there are good things to look out for, like an asteroid passing between the Earth and the Moonsometime around November. Any comets? You cannever really tell with the majority of them. These typesof phenomena come out of the blue. We could haveone next week for all I know.Events begin at around 7pm or 8pm, and can go oninto the early hours if the skys doing good things. You arrive, meet Gary and the team, and have a cup of tea. Gary delivers a 40-minute talk with all the passion hehas for his subject. If the theme is Northern Lights, aswith our visit, hell tell you about the folklore and the science. Then the group is split into two and everyone gets achance to look through telescopes at star clusters, gasclouds, planets, shooting stars, and really distant deepsky objects in other galaxies. It all began with what they call a Star Camp, an American thing Gary had heard of. Its where a group of enthusiasts just turn up withtents and beer. Theyre huge in America. There wasone in Norfolk, but the skies werent as clear, so westarted our own o. Today they say the Kielder StarCamp is ranked in the worlds top 10 star parties. Westill have them twice a year, and anyone is welcome.And as someone who spends his life gazing into outerspace, does he think theres life out there? I think the ocial astronomy line is that there probably is, but at the moment its only probably. Personally, I think that finding signs of that life is something that will happen in our lifetime. Even if itsgreen slime under a rock, just something to show thatlife has got a foothold, can you imagine how incrediblyexciting that day will be?

The European Southern Observatory, he adds, is finding all types of earth-like planets just in our own galaxy. Just visit their website at www.eso.organd key in alien planets; its fascinating reading, Gary suggests. These are the Goldilocks planets - not too hot andnot too cold - where its possible that life could be sustained in the same way that it is here. The more our technology improves, the more of these planetswere finding.There are around 150 billion stars in our own galaxy,each one like our own sun and surrounded by planets.In our visible universe, there are something like twobillion galaxies, each with a similar number of stars. Which goes some way to explaining why so manyKielder Observatory visitors return. Theres no shortage of things to look at out there, and the

coming dark nights only boost the chances of seeingsomething incredible. Kielder Observatory events, 8 for adults, 6 concessions, www.kielderobservatory.org GaryFildes tel 07805 638 469For information on when the Aurora Borealis ismost likely to be seen, see www.spaceweather.com

North American Nebula - By Gary Fildes

Above: Gary Fildes

And as someone who spends his life gazing into outer space,

does he think theres life out there?

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The presentation of Elmwood is superb and it benefits from an alarm system, sound system, beautifullighting and very tasteful interior design. Its location off Clayton Road provides easy access to the hospitalsand universities.

ElmwoodAkenside Terrace, Jesmond

Originally built in 1883 Elmwood was dramatically refurbished, extended and improved in 2005. It wasacquired by the current owner in 2008 and further improvements have since been completed to this outstanding, luxury city house. The property is set back from Akenside Terrace with landscaped gardensgiving good privacy and seclusion and it provides one of the most stunning luxury houses of its size in central Newcastle. Elmwood combines traditional quality, architecture and design with modern, contemporary taste, flair and fittings.

Entrance vestibule | Reception hallway | Drawing room with marble fireplace and colourful andvibrant fish aquarium which subdivides the two principal reception rooms | Family sitting roomStudy/dining room Stunning kitchen/breakfast room with integrated appliances and a fouroven AGA | Laundry room | Cloakroom/wc | Master bedroom with en-suite dressing room andshower room | Guest bedroom with en-suite and roof terrace | Three further double bedroomsEn-suite bathroom | Luxury family bathroom | Under stair kitchenette | Second floor: Two further double bedrooms | Cloakroom/wc

Price Guide: 1.4 Million

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North View Farm represents one of the best new build schemes within the region.

North View FarmThe Avenue, Medburn

The launch of the Show Home by Greenmore Developments Ltd in early October 2011 has been eagerlyanticipated. The Show Home represents one of three luxury stone detached houses on the edge of Medburn, enjoying magnificent views over the surrounding countryside and farmland. These beautifulhomes have 0.27 to 0.32 acre sites, with lovely stone boundary walls and delightful landscaped gardens.

The ground floor accommodation is very welcoming, with four principal reception rooms, including a dining room, a family sitting room, a study and a garden room. The Show Housekitchen is magnificent, fully integrated with top of the range appliances and supported by autility room and a cloakroom/wc leading from the principal hall. The properties, which havefour double bedrooms at first floor and two at second floor, have state of the art bathrooms and en-suite shower rooms, as well as a dressing room to the master bedroom and beautiful interior design, with the option for double and triple garages and first floor studios/cinema andoffice space. These magnificent homes will have good accessibility to Ponteland village, with itsrestaurants and public inns, as well as the Tyne Valley and Newcastle/the Western Bypass.

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Externally, the mature garden contains a champion sized all weather tennis court, a croquet lawn, and a well stocked trout lake. Beechfield Tower provides a private, peaceful haven yet is accessible to Ponteland (10 miles), Newcastle Airport (10 miles) and Newcastle (18 miles).

Beechfield Tower Belsay Price Guide: Price on ApplicationSet within stunning Northumbrian countryside Beechfield Tower is a highly impressive country house with grounds extending to around 6 acres. The currentowners have extensively refurbished the property and the conversion of the Estate Office enables a private business to be run from within the grounds.

Great Hall | Morning room | Dining room with galleried library | Drawing room | Music room | Billiard room | Gentlemans study | Kitchen | Laundryroom | Flower room | Cloakroom/wc | Staff kitchen | Cellars | Master bedroom and guest bedroom suites | Nursery | Seven further bedrooms, fiveen-suites | Guest sitting room | Three bedroom staff house | Gatehouse | Outbuildings including stabling and garaging

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82 runnymede road Darras Hall, Ponteland

Planning permission to redevelop into FIVE fabulous detachedluxury houses on a 3.7 acre site looking onto the River Pont.

The houses have 245 m2 to 280 m2 of superb accommodation.

all enquiries Duncan Young on 0191 223 3500 or email [email protected]

A magnificent 2.58 acre mature site in a prime position, withplanning opportunity for a stunning modern mansion.

a unique opportunity for a prestigious house.

land to rear of 84-92 runnymede road Darras Hall, Ponteland

For salE as a wholE or iN ParT

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The gardens are a lovely feature of this period home, the rear with large lawns, mature trees and excellent terraces and the front with two driveways and adouble plus garage with planning permission to convert to a studio. Shirley Lodge is a beautiful home in a most sought after residential area.

shirley lodge Adderstone Crescent, Jesmond Price Guide: Price on ApplicationShirley Lodge, constructed circa 1900, represents one of only a small number of very substantial detached houses within Adderstone Crescent. It has been significantly refurbished to a very high standard and has great style and character with period architectural features contrasting with contemporary interiors.

Reception hall | Drawing room with inglenook | Elegant sitting room | Dining room | Family room, currently a study | Kitchen/breakfasting roomwith Aga | Garden room | Laundry room | Separate cloakroom and wc | Master bedroom with luxury en suite | Three further substantial bedroomsFifth bedroom, currently a dressing room | Family bathroom | Separate wc | Wet room | Self contained two bedroom apartment

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Planning permission was granted in December 2008 for the conversion of the loft space to provide a luxury suite which would easily accommodate two doublebedrooms and a bathroom. This is a highly impressive home with attractive gardens and easy access into Morpeth and Newcastle city centre.

high law house Lynn Law Farm, Whalton Price Guide: 1 MillionAn outstanding stone built detached luxury home, built in 1999, with a 5.5 acre grazing meadow, timber stables, two loose boxes, two store rooms and a tackroom. Situated in this award winning development it enjoys fabulous views over surrounding countryside, and has a great deal of style and character.

Entrance vestibule | Reception hallway | Cloakroom/wc | Drawing room | Kitchen/breakfast/family room with hand painted cabinets | UtilityGames room | Family snug room | Concealed professional wine cellar accommodating 1200 bottles | Master bedroom with luxury en-suite bathroom with separate shower | Three further double bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms and separate showers | Triple garage

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The property benefits from gas central heating and lovely views over the gardens, which are private. An exceptional house in a lovely location, with immediateaccess to the coastline and nearby shops, schools and sporting facilities. A very rare property with impressive architecture and design.

Beverley lodge Beverley Gardens, Cullercoats Price Guide: 1 MillionAn outstanding opportunity to acquire a magnificent, detached family home. Built in 1900 and purchased by the current owners in 1955, this stunning houseis available for sale for the first time in 60 years. The property occupies a site of just over 0.545 acres with a lovely entrance drive and triple garage.

Entrance vestibule | Reception hallway with seating area | Drawing room | Dining room with circular bay window | Family room leading to theAmdega conservatory | Breakfast area with a gas fired AGA | Kitchen with a range of wood fronted cabinets | Utility room | Cloakroom/wc | Familybathroom with cast iron bath and separate shower wet room | Five bedrooms | Second floor games room with living area

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The Woodlands is set back from Sunderland Road backing onto delightful open countryside, as well as having very impressive gardens and grounds with lawnedareas and flower borders. The Woodlands is a unique and very special home for which viewing is strongly recommended.

The woodlands Sunderland Road, Cleadon Price Guide: Price on ApplicationConstructed in the mid 1980s and occupied by the same family since, is this luxurious detached family home. Access is via a gated entrance and security gatehouseinto private grounds which include a large courtyard & parking area, single garage, security office, separate wc and independent one bedroom cottage.

Entrance vestibule | Central hall | Cloakroom/wc | Drawing room and separate dining area | Kitchen with large breakfasting area | Utility roomMaster suite with en suite bathroom and ladys and gentlemans dressing rooms | Three further bedrooms, all with en suites | Internal courtyardIndependent cottage | Security gatehouse

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This is a fabulous period property with many character features including panelled doors, high ceilings and cornicing. It does show potential for modernisationworks if required. A well respected house in a beautiful area of Gosforth. Viewing is strongly recommended.

rainton Graham Park Road, Gosforth Price Guide: 899,500This substantial three storey semi detached family home, built in 1904, has a lovely frontage with a recently rebuilt boundary wall and gated entrance. Parkingis provided for a number of cars and there is a single car port and garage. The south facing gardens are highly impressive.

Reception hall | Dining room | Drawing room with doors to terrace | Family sitting room with doors to terrace | Kitchen/breakfast room with woodcabinets and built in appliances | Utility | Separate wc | Pantry | Richardson by Amdega conservatory | Four first floor double bedrooms | Twobathrooms | Four further second floor bedrooms, one currently a study

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The property has oil central heating, Everest double glazing, very tasteful design, block paved drive and courtyard and double garage. It has good accessibilityto Morpeth & Newcastle and excellent country amenities. This beautiful home must be viewed to appreciate the quality and specification.

linden house Linden Acres, Longhorsley Price Guide: 895,000An outstanding stone built, detached house within an exclusive estate within the grounds of Linden Hall Country House Hotel and Golf Club. This magnificentproperty has been superbly improved to an outstanding specification, supported by stunning landscaped gardens and mature woodland at its boundary.

Reception hall | Cloakroom and separate wc | Drawing room with magnificent marble fireplace | Dining room | Conservatory | Kitchen/breakfasting room by Clive Christian with handmade cabinets and built-in appliances | Utility | Master bedroom with fabulous en-suite dressingroom and bathroom | Guest double bedroom with dressing area and en-suite | Two further double bedrooms | Family shower room

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A sunken water garden with stone terraces and tall fir trees give a majestic approach to the house and the rear garden leads onto a grazing paddock. The househas two garages, a stable with two loose boxes, a kitchen garden with greenhouse and store shed. A very special property.

highford Mitford, Morpeth Price Guide: 895,000An outstanding opportunity to acquire a fabulous, 1920s detached country home. The gardens and grounds of 9.85 acres, which were professionally landscapedin the 1920s, include three grazing paddocks and circa three quarters of a mile of fishing rights with double bank around the property.

Entrance hallway | Cloakroom/wc | Kitchen/breakfast room with walk-in pantry | Main reception hall with inglenook fireplace | Sitting roomMorning room | Lounge | Five bedrooms; four doubles and one single | Two bathrooms | Shower room | Gardens | Gated entrance to a gravelleddrive and courtyard | All weather tennis court

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The Mews House completes the phenomenal success of this beautiful residential scheme and complements the developers, the Adderstone Group, on their attention to detail and fabulous creativity.

Please contact ashleigh sundin on 0191 223 3500

The Mews house Moorlands Hall, Elmfield Sq, Gosforth Price Guide: Price on ApplicationThe final completion of this stunning development, set back from Elmfield Road in Gosforth, takes place with the construction of the Mews House. This propertyis unique within the development, being the only detached stone built, three storey home, which overlooks its south facing private park and garden. The accommodation extends to 2,900 sq ft and is surrounded by magnificent tall trees. The redevelopment of Moorlands Hall was a phenomenal success, with allfive luxury apartments selling off plan and representing some of the very best apartments that Newcastle has available.

The Mews House will include at lower ground level, a gymnasium or games room with double doors onto its private courtyard and terrace, as wellas a cinema and media room. At upper ground level the hall will connect to a cloakroom/wc and a utility room. The open plan living room, withdining area and state of the art fitted kitchen, will have two sets of double doors overlooking the south facing gardens and leading onto theirpersonal terrace. The magnificent staircase will then lead up to the first floor where there are four double bedrooms, two luxury shower rooms anda family bathroom. Above the master bedroom suite is a further mezzanine with studio/dressing room. The integrated garage and visitor parkingfacilities will also complement this stunning home.

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This very fine house within the heart of Gosforth has a stone pillared entrance, single garage, alarm system, oil fired central heating, and shows obvious potentialfor further updating and modernising works, subject to planning and building consent. An outstanding opportunity.

sunnyside house High Street, Gosforth Price Guide: 725,000An outstanding opportunity to acquire a very special and impressive stone built family home in the centre of Gosforth. Dating back to the early 1800s it occupiesa magnificent garden site which includes the original Gosforth jail, a two storey building with two store rooms at both ground and first floors.

Reception hall and principal staircase | Cloakroom and wc | Drawing room with marble fireplace | Elegant dining room with double doors to gardens | Family room leading to kitchen and a rear staircase connecting to first floor | Master bedroom | Two further double bedrooms | Familybathroom with separate wc | Fourth bedroom/study connecting to ground floor via rear staircase

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Holywood is an exclusive development comprising the original Holywood Hall, of which East Hall forms a part, surrounded by open countryside and within halfa mile from the centre of Wolsingham. Further amenities can be found within the regional centres of Newcastle, Durham, Darlington and Teesside.

East hall Holywood, Wolsingham Price Guide: 650,000East Hall is a sumptuously appointed period house, one of four properties created from the original main hall. Lovingly restored, it stands within private, landscaped gardens with a detached double garage and ample parking, and gas central heating, double glazing, a security system and PP for an orangery.

Entrance portico | Reception hallway | Cloakroom/wc | Sitting room with French doors to the gardens | Dining room | Study/third reception roomStunning fitted kitchen/breakfast room | Utility room | Four double bedrooms, all with fitted wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms | Double garageand parking for several cars

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Externally, there are lovely south facing gardens, stone flagged terrace, parking, a double garage, and a two acre grazing paddock. Molesden has good accessto local schools and transport links into Newcastle.

East Molesden Molesden, Near Morpeth Price Guide: 650,000Situated only a 10 minute drive to the west of Morpeth within this beautiful hamlet of high quality homes is this lovely listed 18th century farmhouse with atwo storey barn extension. It has style and character, was extended in 1975, and the old farmhouse and barn have been joined by a very creative design.

Entrance hall | Snug/family room | Sitting room | Lounge | Large kitchen/breakfast room with four feature stone arches | Utility | Magnificent firstfloor living room | Four double bedrooms, master with en suite | Family bathroom with separate wc | Large walk in pantry/wine cellar | Oil centralheating | Some double glazing

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Keepers CottageSpoutwell Lane, CorbridgeA very attractive stone built detached cottage in a beautiful area ofCorbridge, close to the centre of the village. The property has a grazingpaddock and the total grounds extend to 3.3 acres. The private driveleads to a gated entrance connecting to the courtyard and a detachedgarage. The cottage dates back to the 19th century and has evolvedtremendously in recent years, with a large stone extension.

Entrance hall | Cloakroom/wc and useful storage cupboardKitchen and dining room with cream cabinets, built-in appliances and an Aga | Utility | Sitting room with a stonefireplace and glazed double doors to terrace | Three doublebedrooms, the master with an en suite bathroom | Familyshower room

Price Guide: 895,000

The property has oil central heating, some double glazing set in woodframes, lawned gardens and is situated in a beautiful location withinCorbridge within easy walking distance of the village centre.

The lodgeThe Drive, Gosforth A unique property set back from the High Street on the corner of TheDrive. Built in the early 19th Century this Grade II listed stone detached lodge has recently been remodelled by an architect. One ofits striking features is a new master bedroom suite with a glass wallopening to the garden, linked to the original lodge by a glass corridor.A new entrance has also been formed creating a hall and study area.

Sitting room with bay window | Kitchen/dining roomContemporary master bedroom suite | En-suite luxury bathroom/wc | Double bedroom | En-suite shower room/wcTwo further bedrooms | Family bathroom/wc | Gardens tofront and rear


The house has gas central heating, alarm, and single garage. The southfacing garden is private and this deceptively large property is in a veryprominent location with easy access to the High Street.

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BankFootCottages Iveston Village, Nr Lanchester, Co. Durham

Rural living at its finest


The GenellThis wonderfully presented stone built semi detached househas arguably the grandest position within the developmentwith a depth of character suggesting its position has been established for many years. The four bedroom property alsoboasts a reception hall, three reception rooms, kitchen andbreakfast room, and all bedrooms are en suite or have accessto a Jack & Jill bathroom. Externally there is a double garageand circa 4 acres of land, ideal for equestrian use.


The MereThis magnificently presented stone built semi detachedhouse boasts a secluded site with tall trees, and careful attention has been paid to the positioning of each window,ensuring the beauty of the countryside is captured from eachroom. With four bedrooms, the master en suite, the propertyalso benefits from a spacious reception hall, three receptionrooms, one to the first floor, a breakfasting kitchen and a family bathroom. Externally there is a double garage.


The settThis wonderfully presented stone built cluster house is at thevery heart of the Bank Foot Cottages development and has alarge courtyard to the rear with a raised vegetable/flower garden, and a double garage. The four bedroom property alsobenefits from a spacious reception hall, a living room, a versatile second reception room, as well as a study area,breakfasting kitchen with French doors to the gardens, familybathroom and two en suite shower rooms.

This development of three unique and exclusive homes is located in the much sought after hamlet

of Iveston and enjoys panoramic views across the valley. The design of each property incorporates

a blend of stone and brick masonry, heritage style windows and high end finishing throughout.

CoNTaCT rare! FroM saNDErsoN YoUNG oN 0191 2233500

E

A rare opportunity to live in the centre of historic Corbridge

Tel 01670 785 691 Email [email protected] web www.countylife.co.uk

ORCHA R D COU RTPrices from 295,000

SECRET GARDEN florist19 Clayton Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne

Tel: 0191 281 7753 | Fax: 0191 281 0534 | www.secretgardenflowers.co.uk

95 high streetGosforthNewcastle upon TyneNE3 4aaT: 0191 223 3510

REGIONAL LETTINGS Not in a position to be tied down by property? Yourefortunate the rental market in the region is vibrantand exciting.

We have quality properties regionwide, in city, coast and country locations, which means that we can fulfil every need.

Our landlords value our expertise and our service with good reason. Now its your turn to experience it, too..

YOUR LOCAL OFFICE


he North East lettings division of Sanderson Young recently secured a tenant for a prestige property being let for 10,000 per month.Because discretion is crucial in these

circumstances, Sanderson Young is not at liberty to divulge who was set to live in the property, thoughone assumes they will be very comfortable.This is

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