Patrick Gardner Town & Country magazine

ctoowunnt&ry www.patrickgardner.com

Issue 16 – Autumn/Winter 2021

A SELECTION OF THE FINEST PROPERTIES IN YOUR AREA

Buying a new home?

Take professional advice from a
chartered building surveyor.

A residential property is likely to be the biggest Please call us on 01932 867234
purchase you ever make. For your own peace of to discuss your requirements.
mind you will want to ensure that your investment
is structurally sound and free of costly defects. Albright Surveyors Limited
48 Station Road, Stoke D’Abernon,
Albright Surveyors is a local firm of independent KT11 3BN
chartered surveyors who specialise in full building [email protected]
surveys. We carry out detailed inspections of the
property you are about to purchase and provide
a written report covering every element of the
building, both internally and externally. We are happy
to meet you at the end of an inspection to discuss
our findings or alternatively the surveyor can talk you
through the report.

Happy Christmas!

A s I write this article, Christmas Day is As we head into winter and look forward to
about six weeks away. Last Christmas Christmas, enquiry levels from both local and
our celebrations were curtailed by London buyers still remain high. Our view is
‘lockdown’ restrictions and it would seem that the underlying markets remain strong and
that this year we will be able to celebrate that the start of 2022 will reveal a continuing
with our families and friends. Thankfully, the sellers’ market.
vaccination programme has made a positive
difference and whilst undoubtedly there are All of our offices at Ashtead, Bookham,
still challenges ahead, it would appear the Leatherhead and Dorking have remained busy
‘lights are getting brighter’. valuing properties, many of which will come to
the market in the New Year. If you are thinking
This last year we experienced an of moving and wish to register your interest
exceptionally busy market. In my opinion, the in future properties that will be coming to the
last time the market was as frantic as it has market, please do get in touch. Equally, if you
been, was in 1988! Fuelled by the desire to are thinking of moving or just wish to have an
‘escape Covid’, historically low interest rates understanding of what your property might be
and Stamp Duty ‘holiday breaks’, in general worth, please feel free to call or email us and
terms property prices have risen by between we will be happy to come and see you without
8% and 15% and in some cases more over any obligation.
the last year.
In closing, may I take this opportunity to
In contrast, the market for flats throughout wish you a safe, happy Christmas and peaceful
2020 was more subdued. However, since New Year in the company of your friends
spring 2021, this area of the market is much and family.
improved, which is good news for sellers and
buyers alike. Currently, there is still a plentiful I hope you enjoy our magazine.
choice of units available to buy with good sales
being secured to first time buyers, second Bruce Shaw BSc (Hons) MRICS
time buyers and downsizers. The rental market Senior Partner
for flats throughout 2020/21 remained very
strong. Encouraged by the Stamp Duty holiday,
low interest rates and poor investor returns
in other investment channels, we also saw an
increase in investors returning to the market to
take advantage of improving yields.

1www.patrickgardner.com |

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in our Leatherhead office, on 01372 374148, or visit our website.

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Employment • Enfranchisement • Family law • Lending
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12
22

38 © NICK DAWE

52 Contents

Town & Country is published by Patrick Gardner estate agents 12 Interview
Editor: Vari Bowling and Cathy Hooker
Email: [email protected] Ex-England rugby player David Flatman shares stories of gun-wielding
Produced by Domino4 Ltd hardmen, vigilantes and taking uppercuts from South Africa’s Rugby World
Email: [email protected] Cup winning captain Francois Pienaar.
Web: www.domino4.co.uk
Cover photo: Morning has broken by Amanda Cook, 22 Nature
courtesy Surrey Wildlife Trust 2019 photographic competition,
highly commended over 18 photographic category Claire Gibbs of Surrey Wildlife Trust gives an insight into how creating
Domino4 Ltd, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept wildlife habitats will help the climate crisis.
liability for errors or omissions. Any artwork will be at owner’s risk.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced 30 Travel
in any form without the written permission of the copyright holder
and publisher, application for which should be made in writing to Kevin Pilley seeks out the Route des Vins d’Alsace, which leads in many
the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are forms to the celebration of Christmas.
not necessarily those of the publisher.
38 Motoring

Euan Johns looks at the elegant New Range Rover, which provides more
customer choice and scope for personalisaiton than ever before.

46 Garden design

Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design suggests ways to
make your garden sparkle this winter.

52 Staycation

A growing number of high-class restaurants and hotels in the Lake District
are proving a draw for people from all over the country.

3www.patrickgardner.com |

Property focus

4 | www.patrickgardner.com

Price on application
Patrick Gardner Bookham
Telephone: 01372 452207

Superb contemporary-style
family house in sought after private road

This six-bedroom family house was The remainder of the front garden is laid to
originally built in 2015 to create a stunning lawn with side access to the rear.
contemporary home of approx. 5,000 sq.ft.,
offering light and airy accommodation. The rear garden is a particular feature of
the property, measuring 112' x 66' and backs
Situated in one of Bookham’s most sought in an easterly direction. Adjoining the rear of
after private roads, this superb property the property is a large sun terrace leading to
comprises a large reception hall with the lawn. A pathway leads to further patio,
cloakroom and fitted coat cupboard, off which ideal for summer al-fresco dining with a
is an oak staircase rising to the first floor. built-in barbecue. The property benefits from
Double doors lead to the kitchen/dining/family a detached timber annexe with a bedroom,
room. The kitchen, which is fitted with quality shower room and kitchenette living room.
units and integrated appliances throughout, is
the heart of the home offering an open-plan EPC: B
dining family area with bi-fold doors to the
rear garden. Off the kitchen is a utility room
and a boot room, both with doors to outside.
Overlooking the rear garden is the superb
double aspect living room with a feature
wood-burning stove and bi-fold doors. There
is a cinema room and a study which completes
the ground floor accommodation.

On the first floor, there is a magnificent
master bedroom with two walk-in wardrobes
and an en suite bathroom with a walk-in
shower, twin basins and feature freestanding
bath. There are three further bedroom suites
and a galleried landing with a further staircase
to the second floor.

On the top floor there are two further
double bedrooms served by a family bathroom
and a large games room with eaves storage.

The property, which stands on a 0.307 acre
plot, is approached via an in-and-out drive
providing ample parking for a number of
vehicles and leads to an attached garage. The
garage features a mezzanine floor for storage,
an electric up-and-over door, power and light.

5www.patrickgardner.com |

Bookham Guide price £1,350,000

An extremely well presented family
house in a small cul-de-sac within
walking distance of Bookham Station
and National Trust land.
The accommodation comprises a large
living room with doors to conservatory,
study, superb kitchen/dining/family room
and separate utility. On the first floor is a
master bedroom with en suite, three further
bedrooms. Outside is a secluded garden and
barn style parking. EPC: C

Bookham 01372 452207

www.patrickgardner.com

Ashtead Guide price £1,400,000

Imposing Edwardian detached family
house, situated within easy reach of
Ashtead main line station and acres of
Green Belt countryside.
The property offers a wealth of original
features and benefits from superb well-
proportioned accommodation including
three reception rooms, fitted kitchen/
breakfast room with utility and laundry
room, five bedrooms, two en suites and a
family bathroom, set in mature grounds of
approximately one third of an acre. EPC: E

Ashtead 01372 271880

www.patrickgardner.com

Lettings

Let agreed

Chtaimllenegsing Ashtead £2,295pcm
A look back at 2021, a year for property rentals like no other. Let agreed

Challenging is a word I frequently hear used to Capel £2,200pcm
describe the current rental market; but we like a Let agreed
challenge. It’s fair to say that it’s been a busy time
since the lockdown restrictions have eased, with a great Dorking £1,250pcm
deal of pent up demand. The busy sales market and a
general desire to get away from the city has seen a large Cranleigh £2,500pcm
increase in the number of families looking to rent and
relocate to Mole Valley. The key issue has been a shortage
of housing stock. A large percentage of the properties we
look after are our clients own family homes, entrusted to
us while they move elsewhere for work. Global events and
the Covid crisis have meant many of these moves simply
haven’t happened. As the world opens up for business,
we are starting to see people able to restart their plans
and take up contracts all over the world, and with this, the
housing stock is slowly increasing.

There has been less of an issue when it comes to
apartments as investors have continued to return to the
market. Historically low mortgage rates and continued
growth of rent yields, combined with low returns on most
other investments, have seen many, once again, turn to the
safety of bricks and mortar.

So the message is simple, we would love to help if you
have a property that you are looking to let or would like
advice on how to become a landlord. We let more property
in Mole Valley than any other letting agent, the reason is
straightforward, we all enjoy it and take immense satisfaction
in doing a great job for our clients. Please feel free to drop
into your local office and have a chat with one of the team.

Ashtead: [email protected]
Bookham: [email protected]
Dorking: [email protected]
Leatherhead: [email protected]

Let agreed

8 | www.patrickgardner.com

Let agreed Let agreed

Westhumble £2,200pcm

Let agreed

Buckland £3,750pcm Leatherhead £2,295pcm
Let agreed
Let agreed

Great Bookham £1,475pcm

Let agreed

Fetcham £2,900pcm Effingham £3,350pcm >>

9www.patrickgardner.com |

Great Bookham £2,750pcm Let agreed Let agreed

Headley £1,250pcm

Let agreed

Let agreed Leatherhead £1,350pcm
Let agreed

Ashtead £2,450pcm
Let agreed

Little Bookham £1,750pcm Great Bookham £895pcm

10 | www.patrickgardner.com

Patrick Gardner Property Management Team

Experienced, well-prepared and ready to respond when needed, our Property Management
Team go to great lengths to get the best possible results for our clients. They’re the best in
the business, says Nick Hutton, Patrick Gardner’s Director of Lettings…

W e have a fantastic Property Management Team at Patrick Gardner. The team is based in
our Leatherhead office and, with decades of experience between them, there is little they
haven’t seen over the years!
The question I often get asked is, ‘why use an agent to manage your property, after all, it’s pretty
easy isn’t it?’ Well, on the face of it, yes it looks simple. We can all arrange a plumber, find a roofer or
fix a fuse; but the key point is, do you have the contacts, and do you want to organise this – inevitably
on a Sunday afternoon halfway through lunch?

The devil, as they say, is in the detail. Whilst the day to day repairs that come with rental properties
form part of what we do, property management encompasses so much more. From the ever-changing
legislation, gas safety certificates, electrical checks, property inspections, smoke alarms and carbon
monoxide detectors, the list is extensive – and can be overwhelming.

Depending on the number of properties you own, and your work and personal commitments,
managing your own properties can quickly become both time and financially consuming. Working
with Patrick Gardner’s experienced Property Management Team, landlords benefit from our experience
and unbeatable know-how, rest assured in the knowledge that the lines of communication and the
relationship between landlord and tenant remain professional and in line with legislation at all times.

Our team manages everything from studio apartments in the centre of town to country houses in the
Surrey villages and are always happy to discuss your needs whether you are thinking of buying your first
investment or you already own a portfolio. [email protected]
Nick Hutton BA Hons MARLA, Lettings Director

11www.patrickgardner.com |

Interview

pMorree tthtayn jufsat ca e

12 | www.patrickgardner.com

Interview

In a café full of fisherman on the Devon coast, a 20-stone man that looks a bit
familiar rocks up on a Triumph bike. He’s here to share stories of gun-wielding
hardmen in dark alleys, chainsaw-toting vigilantes, taking uppercuts from
Francois Pienaar, the friendliest divorce ever and having ‘Bob in Luton’ trying to
brand him racist on Twitter. David Flatman is more than just a pretty face, the
ex England rugby player moved into the media after calling time on his 14-year
playing career in 2012, having won eight England caps.

PHOTOS © NICK DAWE The south Devon town Brixham love Porsches – I’ve bought three 911s in purely from stress and separating from my
is famed for its fish. Some £40m the past that I couldn’t afford, and regret wife. So, at eighteen stone people thought
of the stuff passes through its selling all of them. My tastes aren’t mega I looked unwell!”.
market every year, making it the biggest expensive, no Lambo or anything. My
English port supported by a fleet of girlfriend got me an old 3-series BMW for Still living in Bath, David says he rarely
boats that’s also the country’s biggest. my 40th.” goes 24 hours without seeing his girls. “I
For a town of not even 20,000 people, live about 30 seconds from them,” he says.
it certainly punches. His two daughters, eight and ten, love it “We don’t have a custody arrangement;
in Devon, and although he’s no longer with we deleted the whole custody section, so
Every weekday morning, the place for fish their mum, they’ve arguably got the most I see them every day. We don’t have ‘these
talk is Tides, a café where everyone knows amicable divorce ever. “We don’t have a are daddy’s days, these are mummy’s’, it’s
everyone, and everyone works with or divorce like anyone else’s really,” he says. whatever works for us around our jobs.
around fish. Today, though, there’s a non- “Pro sport is an interesting examination of
regular in town, rolling up on a Triumph finding out who you are because you’re “It’s not perfect, it’s just about being
Rocket – which has the ‘biggest engine on pushed really hard in certain areas, and kind, if you can just be kind you get so
a production bike’ – and ordering a plate I found I was the man I thought I was in much further.”
of eggs and a coffee to keep the protein some ways, and not in other ways. You are
coming, even years after his rugby playing who you are. The former Bath prop is exactly as you’d
days have ended. expect him to be in person. He’s got a
“But I think divorce when you have familiarity that makes you think you’ve
David Flatman has a place in Devon, just children, teaches you more about yourself known him for years and his reasoned
fifteen minutes further down the coast, than anything I’ve ever been through. approach to situations on the rugby field
but not in the flashy, Putney-by-Sea that is Divorce taught me how to be a parent, a – at least now as a commentator – seems
Salcombe, but at nearby Kingsbridge, pretty man and a grown-up. to be reflected in all other aspects of his
enough but far less glamorous life. Although even when trying to say
than its yachty coastal neighbour. “It’s an unpleasant situation but my something nice, he can come unstuck –
“A lot of people would assume you ex-wife and I are nice people, so we were especially on the anti-social pit of despair
need a lot of cash to buy a second home in like ‘this is going to happen, so there’s no that is Twitter. “I hate Twitter,” he says,
Devon,” says David. “But it’s an ex-council reason for anyone to hate anyone, do we “I quite like a lot of it, but the things I hate,
house and it costs me less every year in agree that we put the children first?’ So, I hate so much that I talked to my agent
mortgage payments than it would to stay let’s just remember that every time we about six months ago about getting rid of
for two weeks in Salcombe – in fact, not make a decision. So, we have this super- social media.” >>
even Salcombe, just two weeks in Devon.” chilled relationship where, for instance, I
was supposed to be taking the kids back
He’s been holed out in Devon for weeks earlier, but I had to do this [interview] and
as he prepares to return to our screens as forgot to tell her, so I just get a text saying,
the informed, voice of reason on BT Sport. ‘oi where are the kids?’ And I just messaged
We were going to be meeting earlier in the back saying ‘sorry mate, I forgot I had this
week, but Tom Shanklin decided to pay him thing, can I bring them back tomorrow?’
a visit with his family. and it’s all okay.

The bike is the first topic of conversation. “It changed me massively,” he says of
“I waited until I finished playing to get a the divorce. “I don’t think I was bad person
license because I’m not very good on two before, but it has made me such a better
wheels,” he admits. “I’m not very original person. It’s about whether or not you’re
with my tastes, I’m a bloke who likes sport, able to zoom out and get perspective, even
cars, motorbikes, watches, I love all that when the pressure is on you, anxiety is high.
stuff. I’ve wasted I’m not an anxious bloke, but there were
a lot of money on that stuff in my life. periods in 2018 when everyone was saying
‘oh you’ve lost weight, what’s your fitness
“Cars, I’m verging on obsessive,” he says. regime?’. I lost four stone in six months
“But more into 80s and 90s, I love Land from pure stress, 22 to eighteen stone,
Rovers, Range Rovers, old BMWs, and I

13www.patrickgardner.com |

Interview

In a social media world of extremes, of travellers, some particularly violent, cancelled, the very committed thirteen-year-
being in the middle is difficult. “Victory is and it meant by the time I was sixteen or old David moved to the stronger Sevenoaks
not about one side winning and one side seventeen I stopped going out because I club up the M20. “I was desperate to play,
being declared losers – I’m paraphrasing was targeted. and I remember having six or seven weeks
here from a saying so famous I can’t with no games,” he says. “It broke me, so
remember it – but it’s about compromise “Bald head, thick neck, it was always it was a big thing at thirteen, to leave my
and meeting in the middle with everyone ‘look at that prick’. I also think from about childhood club, and go to somewhere with
feeling like they’re giving a bit. So I don’t fifteen I was worried about getting hurt in 40 kids and they’re all trying to win the
mind Twitter in the sense that not everyone fights which would mean that I couldn’t Kent Cup, I just thought this was good, this
agrees with me, I never mind people play rugby anymore, and I’d also had a is what I want.”
disagreeing. couple of mates who got quite badly hurt.”
Similarly, with school, a lot of games
“I tweeted something recently that I Some Maidstone nights stand out were cancelled, which meant he’d hit
thought was a really nice thing to tweet, more than others. “One night we came the gym instead. “By the time I got to
it was about my kids waving to the police out of a nightclub, and there was a bit of sixteen I’d been lifting weights for eighteen
and the police waving back, and I thought it an atmosphere,” he explains, “you could months,” he says. “My dad, who’s an
was so nice that I tweeted something about either walk down an alleyway and there are educational psychologist, looks back now
my kids loving the police, they waved to police, or you duck down an alley where it’s and thinks I had a version of depression
them and they waved back. really dark. because my mood was so altered for
months and months.
“A couple of people said there was “We usually went the safe way with the
something hideous about this, about it being lights, but there were these guys there that “In the end they let me stay home for
alright for me, because I’m white. Even Ugo looked like they were waiting for someone’s one day a week, I hated it so much, they
Monye was like ‘these people are full of head to kick in, so we went the dark way said ‘don’t go in on Friday’ to try and give
sh**, lovely tweet, glad they waved back’. and there was a bloke there with a leather me something to look forward to because
jacket, holding a gun. He said to us, ‘f*** I didn’t have the rugby. They asked
“My first instance was ‘bugger off, as off, you’re going the wrong way’ so we had where I’d go to for sixth form if I could
if I’m racist’, but my girlfriend saw it and no choice, we had to go the other way. go anywhere and I said Dulwich College,
said ‘what are you doing? Think about the best team in the country and I’m always
current climate, think about police brutality, “My parents sold reading about them.
Black Lives Matter, and how easy you’ve got both family cars to
it – you live in Bath, wear chinos and boat pay for me to go to “My parents sold both family cars to pay
shoes, middle class children, you are exactly Dulwich College.” for me to go to Dulwich College.”
the person that is protected by the police,
you are not someone who is disengaged. “The lads down there had seen us go Dulwich College led to Saracens, aged
You have to realise that, while nobody can the other way and been turned back, and eighteen. “I arrived there with two others
think you’re racist, but you have misjudged they were just waiting, fifteen of them, from Dulwich in 1998, and in the gym
the tone’ – and I think she was right. A they were twenty five and we were sixteen. not only were we not that far behind the
week or so later somebody else saw it and What do we do here? seasoned pros, but we were ahead of
replied, and I said, ‘I think you’re right, I think some of them. The programme at Dulwich
I misjudged it, I shouldn’t have written it’. “The bouncers came out, we thought was mega.
they were going to take care of us, but they
“But as soon as I said, ‘you’re right’, she didn’t. Then, luckily, a bloke came out of “Day one was this horrible endurance
said ‘delete it then’ but I wasn’t going to do the pub next door with a chainsaw and said circuit and we had 20 push-ups, 20 seconds
that, it’s there, I said it, and this is all about ‘come with me lads’, and shouted at the off, 20 push-ups, 20 seconds off, until
learning and I’m as open minded about other lads, ‘if you touch them, I’ll cut your you fold. Richard Hill would go forever,
anyone who isn’t like me, as anyone could fheads off’, and started the chainsaw. and in my group, it was me and South
possibly be. African world cup winning captain, Francois
“People say about living in the Bronx, Pienaar, who always did them on his fists.
“But Bob on his sofa down in Luton but remove the guns and Maidstone At the end, everyone else had stopped and
doesn’t see that, he just thinks, ‘yeah get couldn’t have been much different then, it it was me and him. He did more than me,
him, we can get him, we can call him racist was just brutal. but I almost felt I had to stop before he did.
and justify it’. Well, you’re not actually. But
they love it, they love getting in a fight on “My parents moved out seventeen years “We then had to do wrestling and I was
Twitter and I’m just not interested in fighting ago, and I’ve never been back since. I do with Francois, and I accidently ducked down
on Twitter, it doesn’t form part of my week.” not miss that place at all.” and head-butted him right on the bridge of
his nose and split his face. He smacked me a
He grew up in Kent, a mum from Maidstone had also been his first rugby couple of times, uppercuts, and I remember
Durham, a dad from Thornton Heath, club, but when too many games got thinking he’d broken my nose or jaw or
and they lived in Maidstone. “It was quite something – my face really, really hurt, but I
rough, there was lot of scrapping in the pretended it didn’t.
town,” he says. “I didn’t get into that many
scrapes, but there was a high concentration “He then had a chat before the
afternoon session and said, ‘people like

14 | www.patrickgardner.com

Flats, that sort of attitude, he is going © NICK DAWE
to play for England’. The afternoon was
running and I got absolutely blasted, I or coach, it’s got nothing to do with how interview, and was asked ‘what do you
thought I was having an asthma attack and good you were at rugby. make of that?’ Kyran said, ‘Pot Kettle’.
I said to the fitness coach, ‘it’s my asthma’,
and he said ‘it’s not mate, you’ve just got “The first few times you address the “Buck said in one meeting that people
the lungs of a field mouse fella, you got to team, they will shut up and listen because are ripping us apart in the press, and one
grow them’, so I had to keep running and you’re a legend but you can lose that credit player, think it was Kris Chesney, said
I was miles off.” very quickly and with Buck we were, being ‘they’re your quotes, they’re quoting you’ –
polite, miles off. he was the one ripping us up in the press.”
“My first ever live scrum session was
against Paul Wallace, straight after the “He did a Sky Sports interview after a Despite being a regular in the side, after
Lions, best tighthead in the world. Flankers game and said we had no natural leaders a five-month lay-off, he was told by the
alternating were Francois Pienaar and and that was our problem and then Kyran coach to start looking around as there
Richard Hill, we had Tony Diprose in the Bracken, our captain, came in for the next may not be a contract option. “I was like, >>
team, unbelievable, Danny Grewcock,
Tony Copsey, Scott Murray…

“Why didn’t we achieve? It wasn’t about
attitude; we went pretty hard... I don’t
know, the Leicester team at the time had a
particular chemistry that worked well, and
I can’t help thinking it was to do with our
training – did we do enough fitness, were
we aggressive enough, was our coaching
good enough? Not sure. I remember going
to England and John Wells, the ex-Tiger,
was coaching and I came back and Francois
Pienaar asked what it was like, and I said
it was a different level. He told us where
to put our heads in lineouts, told us to
finish our lifts, not just lift and drop, Wellsy
was very technical, but he was where the
standard should have been.

“Francois is a legend, but he didn’t go
on to be a career coach. I look back and
people think it’s all about the players,
but in a game with so many facets, so
many different physiques, coaching is so
important. That’s the sole reason I left
Saracens and went to Bath – because
Michael Foley had signed as forwards
coach, and I’d heard from loads of people
that his attention to detail was off the chart.

“That was what I needed because I
wasn’t a naturally talented kid, I was a
naturally strong kid, and I was up for it,
but I was stagnating. I played every game;
I’d played 100 games or something by the
time I was 21.”

Before joining Bath, he also had another
legend of the game to contend with,
Buck Shelford. “That was a time when it
was seen as the best way to run a rugby
club to get the biggest names possible,”
he explains. “Because they wouldn’t be
big names unless they were brilliant. But
there’s a big difference between being a
great number eight and being a great DOR

15www.patrickgardner.com |

Interview

really?’. The CEO then called me in and only thing that frustrates me is that I got “As it was, they tried to stitch me up.
says, ‘what are you thinking about your injured when I knew I was getting better. Luckily, I’m generally quite nice to people,
contract?’. I said, ‘well Buck said I wasn’t so a couple of people on the email loop
needed here’. And he was like ‘What? “By the time I got back I wasn’t the told me about it and one of them said, ‘this
We definitely want you, don’t leave, we’re same, so I never quite got to be my best but is what they’re trying to do’, and someone
going to offer you a contract’. I went back I still had my career and played for England, left their phone on the table and said ‘you
to Buck and he said, ‘I thought you were played hundreds of Premiership games and might want to look at those emails, or not,
Nick, the other guy, sorry, wrong prop’. played for Bath for ten years or whatever but I’m just going to get a coffee’.
and I’m very lucky.”
“I feel bad saying these things cause he’s “This is an hour and a half before kick-off
a great player, and icon, probably the best- Another crucial moment was at Bath, in with Wasps. There was a trail of emails
ever number eight, but he wasn’t cut out good form in 2007, the potential of more which was basically, ‘can we get him out?’.
to be a head coach for a Premiership rugby caps on the horizon again, but having to
club, and neither am I.” play tighthead due to an injury crisis. “If my
left shoulder hadn’t gone, against Bristol in
He left Saracens to join Bath in 2003, but 2007,” he says of the time he could’ve won
not before having doubted his future in the more caps. “The coach said any chance you
game. “Five years into Sarries, I thought can play tighthead? I said, ‘mate, I’m not
I could stop, and I’d be fine,” he admits. a tighthead, I just don’t like it, but I’ll do it,
“My body was breaking, I’d played too I’ll have a go, but I can’t promise I’ll be any
many games too young and I could have good’. He said it would be just one week
probably gone and worked in a bank and but of course someone didn’t come back
had a heart attack at 35. and it ended up being four or five games
and against Bristol at the Rec, I was playing
“But I ended up speaking to him and a front row of Dave Hilton, Mark Regan
Foley was a grand master of a coach. It and Darren Crompton. We did alright and
made me so much better, but unfortunately then in the 76th minute, the scrum just
the injuries I got at Sarries halted me along slipped in the mud, I felt something go in
the way. my shoulder, two reconstructions later and
it was never the same, I could never bind
“I tended to get injured when I knew I was properly again.”
getting better, I’d be in contention for an
England spot and get injured again. I’d get At Bath, he won the Challenge Cup
back on tour, ‘you’re going to start against and was part of John Connolly’s side that
the All Blacks’, then get injured again.” topped the Premiership, but lost to Wasps
in the play-off final. In 2012, aged 32, after
He’d won eight caps for England during 160 appearances, he retired. The next
his time at Saracens, seven from the bench, job on his CV was a curious one, head of
and although he didn’t know it, he wasn’t communications at Bath Rugby.
going to add to them. His last cap, against
Argentina in 2002, was his finest. “I had “That came about because the club
a good game in what was a very tough tried to f*** me over at the end of my
place to go and play in those days,” he says. career,” he says. “They decided that I was
“Completely by accident I did a sidestep a liability because my shoulder kept giving
in midfield and gave Phil Christophers an way in too many scrums, and couldn’t bind
offload and it was a match-winning try – properly, and they were right. Had they said
best thing I ever did. France had won the to me, ‘you’ve got two years left on your
Grand Slam, and France toured and played deal, would you like to stop so we can get
Argentina the week before and Argentina someone in who’s not ruined?’ I’d have said
crushed them up front. We beat them.” ‘yes please’ and kissed them on the lips.

Following the tour, he injured his “I don’t care that I got injured, that I got eight
shoulder against his future side Bath, caps when I could have got more, the only thing
and he began a sequence of operations. that frustrates me is that I got injured when
“That was it,” he says, “five shoulder I knew I was getting better.
reconstructions, four Achilles ops, elbow
reconstructions, it’s just annoying.

“I’ve probably lifted too many weights,”
he admits. “Even now, given the choice,
I’d lift weights five days in a row, and you
shouldn’t do that, but I just love it.

“I don’t care that I got injured, that I got
eight caps when I could have got more, the

16 | www.patrickgardner.com

Interview

© NICK DAWE security, I left a job that I could have had
forever, and got well-paid for. I could work
“On that trail of emails there were some “I went into the comms role, there wasn’t the hours I wanted too, but I didn’t enjoy it,
really good people sticking up for me, really anything to do, I worked hard but that so I stopped.”
saying you shouldn’t treat a guy like Flats was a club where you might have director
like that. after your name but you can’t necessarily Work now is a sum of parts: BT Sport,
make the decisions you want to make. corporate work and his podcast Flats and
“The doc said to me an hour and half Shanks. “Joe Rugby offered to buy our
before kick-off against Wasps at the Rec, “Some of these people I’d call mates now, podcast, to take it over and pay me and
‘I’ve got to test your shoulder range and so you do get over it and it has nothing to Shanks, it wasn’t a huge amount of money,
motion of both shoulders, I can’t tell you do with the boss now, I really respect him, but we said ‘no’,” he says. “Then someone
why but this needs to happen’ and then but it wasn’t a nice situation. Everyone who offered to build a studio for £100k at my
someone else came into the medical was involved has left now though.” house, but Shanks would have to drive to
examining room by the changing rooms Bath every week. ‘Okay,’ they said, ‘so we’ll
and was like, ‘are you doing it now?’ “After I realised it wasn’t a job for me build one at Shank’s’, ‘nah I’d have to drive
at Bath, I got in a bit of a mood really,” he to Cardiff’. ‘We’ll build one at both?’ ‘Nah,
“The doc was a hell of a bloke, one of continues. “I thought I could just leave, one of us would still have to go somewhere’.
the great blokes, I don’t know what he so I left with no guaranteed income at all, So we just meet at the M4 services by the
wrote down, but I passed. took a real risk, and backed myself to get bridge and do it in the car. It’s low level and
enough work on TV. we do it because we like it.
“After the game some of the people who
were trying to f*** me over came into the “And until the pandemic, it was all “I annoy Shanks, he doesn’t like how
changing rooms to celebrate the win and good,” he explains, “the pandemic has long I talk for,” he explains, “but off the
didn’t get a very warm reception from me exposed loads of people’s careers, including back of that we’ve ended up doing a lot of
and, six weeks later, they gave me a good mine, but that’s okay, it’ll come back. TV together.”
job because either they wanted to or they
got caught trying to stitch me up. “But leaving Bath was a real punt, having Whatever he achieved or didn’t achieve
always wanted the longest contract for the on the rugby field, makes no difference to
him today. “What I love is that I played for
England and my kids couldn’t give a dam,”
he says. “Saracens and Bath had some of
the greatest players that ever played, and
my kids couldn’t care less, they just care
about what’s for breakfast and that’s the
way I like it.

“I’ve got one jersey hanging up in
my house and I’m moving in a bit and I
probably won’t put it back up. Compared
with Bob down the road who played for
his local team, I had an amazing career, but
compared to a lot of my peers I didn’t, so
why do I need to go on about it? About
a week after I ended my career, I was
completely over it. I loved it but don’t miss
it at all.” q

Story by Alex Mead
From the Rugby Journal issue 11
Available from
www.therugbyjournal.com/subscribe

17www.patrickgardner.com |

Property focus

18 | www.patrickgardner.com

Guide price £800,000
Patrick Gardner Dorking
Telephone: 01306 877775

Sought after location with
stunning views across the Surrey Hills

Heathcliffe sits proudly on the slopes of Tower aspects. Mature shrubs and hedges provide
Hill, being one of the most highly-regarded a selection of colour throughout the four
locations in Dorking, approximately one mile seasons. On the ground level, there are
from the High Street shops. two single garages, one on each side of the
property for car parking and/or storage if
The area offers stunning scenery, striking preferred. EPC: D
architecture and glorious views over the
undulating countryside of the Surrey Hills.

This handsome double fronted detached,
half tiled, period property offers potential
to improve and extend, subject to the usual
consents from the local authority.

Perched high up on the hill, steps lead up
to the first tier, with a central glazed panelled
door leading into the house itself. The hallway
provides access to the beautifully presented
kitchen diner, which the current owner has
recently remodelled, creating a great social
living space, ideally for those entertaining
evenings. From the kitchen, leading to the rear
elevation, a double glazed conservatory has
been erected, which the owner currently uses
as a utility/boot room, perfect for dog owners
returning after a long walk over Glorywood.

The double aspect lounge is spacious and
enjoys plenty of natural light. There is a pretty
log burner built within the fireplace surround.

Split level stairs provide access to the first
floor landing, with a period feature window to
the rear elevation overlooking the tiered rear
garden. There are three bedrooms and a family
bathroom, with all three bedrooms enjoying
stunning views from each window.

Gardens can be found surrounding the
house with two lawned areas to the side

19www.patrickgardner.com |

Mickleham Offers in the region of £1,200,000

Spacious detached bungalow set
centrally on a two thirds of an acre
plot in this sought-after Surrey village,
enjoying views to the front over Norbury
Park and the Mole Valley.
The property, which is in need of updating,
currently comprises a living room, five
bedrooms, family bathroom, shower room
and a loft room. Outside are mature gardens
with timber outbuildings and sheds. EPC: E

Leatherhead 01372 360078

www.patrickgardner.com

Legal

A home
for life –

providing for
your pet’s future

If a dog is a man’s best friend, then making sure that they (or any other pet) are provided

for if something happens to you will be a priority for all animal lovers. Louisa Clark explains.

T he good news is that you can make provision in your What happens if I need to go into care or lose mental
Will for what will happen to your pet when you die. capacity? Providing for your pet(s) in your Will is the best
However, it is not possible to make a gift to your pet, way to ensure that they will be looked after when you die.

so it is important to take advice so that a correctly drafted However, consideration should also be given to what will

clause can be included in your Will to name someone you happen to your pet if you become unwell or lose mental

would like to take care of them. capacity. Preparing a Lasting Power of Attorney for your

property and financial affairs is essential for this, as it allows

What should I consider? The first consideration is who you you to give authority to your attorney to manage your
would like to look after your pet. Once you have decided affairs and finances. This means that making provision

this, it is sensible to discuss with that person whether he or for your pet and tasks such as paying for vets’ bills or for

she would be happy to take on this responsibility. temporary care can be dealt with by your attorney.

Another consideration is funding the care of your pet

for the rest of their life, including food, pet insurance and How TWM can help We will be pleased to advise and assist

future veterinary and boarding costs. It is possible to make with any aspect of matters mentioned above. At TWM,

a gift to whomever you have requested to look after your our expert Private Client team is here to help you and we

pet, to cover the costs of their future care. This gift can be offer an initial consultation with no obligation to proceed,

conditional on that person taking over responsibility for so that we can discuss with you the things you should

your pet. However, professional advice should be sought to consider, and help you think about your choices and

ensure that the correct wording and clauses are used. options. For further information, please call us today. q

Additionally, you should consider providing in your Will

not only for your current pet, but also any pets you may

have at the time of your death. It is also possible to name a

substitute beneficiary to care for your pet in the event that

your first choice is unable to do so, or dies before you.

If you cannot think of anyone who could look after your Louisa Clark, Solicitor in Private Client
pet, there are many animal charities that run free schemes Email: [email protected]
to rehome and provide for them. If this is something you

are considering, we can work with you and your chosen TWM Solicitors

charity to incorporate the right clause into your Will to Sweech House, Gravel Hill, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 7HF

reflect your wishes. Some charities also have schemes that Telephone: 01372 374148

you join independently of preparing your Will, in relation Website: twmsolicitors.com

to the future care of your pet. Cranleigh • Epsom • Guildford • Leatherhead • London • Reigate • Wimbledon

21www.patrickgardner.com |

Nature

OHOnMthEe FRONT Ƒ© JON HAWKINS

Surrey Wildlife Trust is urging people in Surrey to work together with their neighbours to take urgent local action

in their streets for the climate crisis through gardening for wildlife.

We all know we need to stop Claire Gibbs, principal ecologist at an amazing habitat for wildlife as well as
burning fossil fuels and reduce Surrey Wildlife Trust Ecology Services absorbing carbon from the atmosphere.
greenhouse gas emissions, and Gardeners World Magazine Garden
but essentially, we must also let nature of the Year 2021 judge, said: “Rather “Rather than burning fallen leaves this
help tackle the climate crisis and, just than using hard landscaping, we need autumn, why not make a leaf pile which
as importantly, adapt to its impacts. By to think about natural wildlife gardening may be used by hedgehogs to nest in?
restoring and connecting gardens, streets, features to let nature mitigate climate Always buy peat free compost to help
and community green spaces for nature, change. Removing concrete paving will prevent the destruction of peat bogs,
these can store carbon, provide clean help rainwater soak away and a pond which are vital carbon stores. Often, we
air and water, protect us from flooding, will store water, rather than contributing think of climate change and wildlife loss
extreme weather and even provide healthy, to overflowing storm drains and flash as two separate global issues that we are
homegrown food, as well as providing floods. Planting a native hedge, rather powerless to help. But we can make a
much needed refuges for wildlife. than building a wall or fence will provide difference by thinking globally and acting
locally; by creating space for nature in our
Did you know that allotments are the
highest yielding land for food, whilst also A wildlife pond
being the most nature friendly (as long as
no pesticides or artificial fertilisers are used) Ƒ© BEN SMALL
and are able to harbour a very diverse range
of creatures?

There are 20,000 hectares of gardens in
Surrey that cover 12 per cent of the county,
an area greater than all of Surrey’s nature
reserves put together. So, gardens are a
vital piece of the jigsaw in tackling climate
change locally. These gardens, if managed
for wildlife, also protect the survival of
a huge range of species including our
precious house martins, hedgehogs, stag
beetles, brimstone butterflies and over two
hundred species of bee.

22 | www.patrickgardner.com

Nature

Ƒ© DANNY GREEN
Ƒ© SURREY WILDLIFE TRUST
Common purpose

gardens we are providing one solution to Surrey Wildlife Trust is delighted to Cel Spellman with
both problems.” congratulate the local community on children from Holy Trinity
the completion of the purchase of
Wildlife Trusts has been working hard for Pewley Meadows, 37.5 acres of rare Pewley Down School
decades to help nature recover but now chalk grassland on the North Downs outdoor classroom
it needs everyone to help. We need to be
bold, we need to take decisive action, and in Guildford.
we need to work together. Every action,
big or small, makes a difference in the The community raised over a
battle against climate change and nature
loss. It’s not too late to solve this if we all million pounds in just three weeks
take action now for a wilder future and a
wilder Surrey. to protect the meadows for nature

A first step is to take the Surrey Wildlife and hosted a visit from Cel Spellman,
Trust wildlife gardening survey. The survey
measures gardens on five essential features: actor, broadcaster, passionate
food, shelter, water, natural solutions, and
connectivity. The survey shows that every environmentalist, and Ambassador
type of gardener, from complete beginners
to the well-seasoned, can take simple for The Wildlife Trusts, to celebrate
steps for the climate and restore wildlife in
their streets. their success.

The online survey can be taken here: The meadows, with their
www.surreywildlifetrust.org/garden-survey
spectacular views across the county, are home to nesting skylarks, chalk hill blue butterflies,
Share it on social media and WhatsApp
groups to encourage family, friends, and bumblebees, wild thyme, and orchids. Under a 500-year lease to Surrey Wildlife Trust,
neighbours to join in. If one person changes
just two people’s attitudes and they in turn which also contributed to the purchase of the meadows, a new nature reserve will be
change two each, and so on, we can make
a difference and become closer as created to preserve the land in perpetuity for wildlife and people. The land purchase has
a community. q
also contributed to the Wildlife Trust’s national goal of restoring 30 per cent of land for

nature by 2030.

“It has been inspiring and energising to meet everyone involved in the campaign to save

Pewley Meadows.which is a beacon of hope and shows what can be achieved when we all

work together, people have the power,” said Cel Spellman.

Community groups from Holy Trinity Pewley Down School, the save Pewley Meadows

campaign group, Rosamund Community Gardens and Julia Stephenson, lead donor, are to

work with Surrey Wildlife Trust to create nature based outdoor learning and volunteering

opportunities for people from the local community to restore a rich array of life on the

fields now and in for the future.

23www.patrickgardner.com |

Newhomes

Land & New Homes 01372 360832

Whitedowns

Dorking, Surrey
Priced at £1,250,000

Just two fine properties, set within a leafy
road in a quiet enclave within walking
distance of Dorking’s bustling market town.
The five-bedroom, detached homes of
approximately 2,500 sq.ft. are approached by a
block pavior driveway. The properties boast an
enviable specification with shaker-style kitchens,
stone worktops, fully integrated appliances and
underfloor heating. The generous ground floor
accommodation includes a light and airy open
plan kitchen/dining/family room with feature roof
lantern and bi-fold doors on to the rear garden.
EPC: B

24 | www.patrickgardner.com

Land & New Homes 01372 360832

Princes Chase

Leatherhead, Surrey

Priced at £965,000
Last remaining property on this prestigious
Berkeley Homes development set in a
mature woodland setting.
The Hawkshill is a generous family home
extending to 1,814 sq. ft. The ground floor
features a stunning kitchen/breakfast/family
room to the rear with a separate living room with
deep bay window to the front of the property.
There are four double bedrooms and two luxury
bathrooms on the first floor. EPC: B
Anticipated completion date April 2022.

25www.patrickgardner.com |

Newhomes

Kelsey Apartments Land & New Homes 01372 360832

Leatherhead

Prices from £265,000
Offering the very best in fine urban living
space, Kelsey Apartments is a stunning
development of luxurious one, two and
three bedroom apartments located in the
prime, sought after location of Leatherhead
in Surrey. With a town centre location,
each apartment is highly specified with
a contemporary finish and includes
Wondrwall Home Automation system for
intelligent living.
All of the apartments offer contemporary
open-plan living space with balconies from the
main living accommodation. The light and airy
spaces are fitted with modern, stylish kitchens
incorporating a range of integrated Bosch/
AEG appliances, natural stone worktops with
copper splashbacks and trim. The living rooms
feature double glazed doors, leading onto
glazed balconies, with wonderful views over the
delightful Surrey countryside. The bathrooms are
complete with white, modern sanitaryware and
matt black Hansgrohe fittings with marble effect
tiling throughout. The apartments benefit from
a sophisticated intelligent living system which
controls the lighting, heating, music and alarm.
There is also a sprinkler system throughout for
extra peace of mind, as well as lift access, private
allocated parking and bicycle storage. 10 Year
Build-Zone Structural Warranty included.
Leatherhead has an excellent choice of local
amenities, including Leatherhead Theatre, a
popular venue for theatre and music; recreation
centre and swimming pool, a wealth of sports
clubs and golf clubs, plus a varied selection of
High Street shopping, including Waitrose and
many individual retail outlets and specialist
shops. Foodies are well catered for, with a
varied selection of cafes, bars and restaurants.
Leatherhead is superbly connected and is perfectly
placed for travel to London by road and rail, with
regular trains to London Waterloo and Victoria.
Junction 9 (Leatherhead) of the M25 give access
to both Heathrow and Gatwick international
airports. EPC: B

Two fully furnished show homes are
available to view.

26 | www.patrickgardner.com

27www.patrickgardner.com |

Newhomes

Land & New Homes 01372 360832

St. Michael’s Court Whitefriars

Ashtead Ashtead
Priced at £350,000
Priced at £495,000
No. 3 St. Michael’s Court is a first floor, two- One of just five luxury conversion apartments
bedroom apartment in a super development in an exclusive gated courtyard setting,
of just nine luxury apartments situated in situated in a most convenient position with
the heart of Ashtead Village. the popular village of Ashtead.
The property has a private balcony accessed from No. 4 Whitefriars is 880 sq.ft. of spacious
the main living space. It also benefits from use of accommodation. It offers a dual aspect, light and
the unique Sky Garden – a delightful communal airy open-plan kitchen/living/dining room. The
outdoor space on the first floor, where owners kitchen features contemporary-style units, a range
can relax and socialise. The development has a lift of integrated appliances and granite worktops.
to all floors. EPC: B There are two double bedrooms and two
generous bathrooms. EPC: C
28 | www.patrickgardner.com

Land & New Homes 01372 360832

The Laurels

Westcott, Surrey

Priced at £698,500
The Laurels is a delightful detached property
with a spacious, open-plan kitchen/living/
dining room with two sets of glazed bi-fold
doors leading onto a private garden.
In addition to the main residence, the property
has a separate garden annexe with shower room,
offering space for an extra bedroom, gym, hobby
room or studio. Underfloor heating to the ground
floor, as well as ‘Oak’ longboard flooring and
fitted carpets to the stairs, landings and bedrooms
add the finishing touches. EPC: B

29www.patrickgardner.com |

Travel

Noël tourism
As British summer time ends, Kevin Pilley sought out the very varied roads that all lead to one thing,

the celebration of Christmas.

© IURII BURIAK | 123RF.COM The Route des Vins d’Alsace, on the far eastern fringe of France France’s wonderful garden
on the German border, winds for seventy-five miles across After paying respects to Strasbourg (the cross road) and its
the lower slopes of the Vosges Mountains and through Gerberviertel tanners’ district, sandstone, high, late Gothic
plains extending to the Rhine. It stretches from Marlenheim near cathedral (Goethe’s “sublimely towering, wide-spreading tree of
Strasbourg through Colmar down to Thann, near the border with God”) with its astronomical clock and the city’s other eglises, its
the ancient Franche-Comté. Along it travel wine lovers, gourmets ‘hotels particulars’ (palaces), horse restaurants, ornate medieval
and a new breed of cabbage, carp and sauerkraut connoisseurs… Maison Kammerzell, Place Kléber, Prussian military architecture,
as well as Noël tourists. the three-bridge, four tower medieval Ponts Couverts bridge over
the River Ill, the wine route beckons, especially at Christmas time.
Sauerkraut Road When much is to be mulled.
Alsace’s Sauerkraut Road is younger, but no less fragrant and
colourful than the famous Alsatian wine route. It celebrates the There are seven types of wine available: Sylvaner, Riesling,
fact that the region (so named for being lawless and beyond legal Gewurtztraminer, Muscat d’Alsace, Tokay Pinot Gris, Pinot
jurisdiction) produces two-thirds of all sauerkraut (charcoute) Blanc or Klevner and the Pinot Noir rosé. Some have been made
made in France and that cabbage-shredding is an ancient popular for over a thousand years in the area Louis IV called France’s
pastime. Alsace produces a fifth of France’s white wine and fifty “wonderful garden”.
per cent of its beer. The Fried Carp Road was created in 1975 and
takes visitors through the Sundgau region with its superb fish Following the wine road by coach or by designated hire car driver
restaurants and fishing stretches. takes the visitor through small, relentlessly picturesque villages with
cobbled streets, tinkling stone fountains, canals, half-timbered
sixteenth and seventeenth century houses with oriel windows and,

30 | www.patrickgardner.com

Travel

Strasbourg’s Ponts Couverts
bridge towers and cathedral

The picturesque region of Alsace in spring, window box after window box of trailing geraniums.
In most places, storks look down their noses from rooftop nests:
they are used to armies passing through this area. Now armies of
tourists do not worry them unduly.

Wending your viti-culturist’s way through places like Bergheim
(famous for its Nativity scene), Ribeauvillé and Kirchheim, the
villages get quainter as they get more difficult to pronounce.
Niedermorschwihr is a real tongue-twister after a couple of glasses
and severe stomach cramp. But the wine road is to be travelled and
some of ‘les plus beaux villages de France’ enjoyed with a green-
stemmed goblet in hand and a tall, slope-shouldered AOC flute
bottle or Rhin du vin nearby.

Christmas markets
Colmar is the region’s wine capital and Alsace in a nutshell:
Renaissance buildings, Gothic architecture, cobbled alleyways and
not-quite-kitsch, verging on-the-cute half-timbered buildings. It
even has its own Petite Venice (Place des Six-Montagnes-Noires)
where market gardeners used to ply their trade on punts. For trivia >>

31www.patrickgardner.com |

Travel Colmar’s Christmas market

fanatics, Colmar was the birthplace of F.A. © COLMAR TOURISM
Bartholdi, the man who built the Statue of
Liberty in 1866. Colmar also claims to have the Dortmund and Cologne’s markets are more like local community events with their
lowest rainfall in the whole of France. the biggest and perhaps the most popular. twinkling fairy lights, carousels, wreaths,
Vienna’s is huge. Strasbourg has staged its window displays, illuminated nativity scenes
Size-wise, it’s quite manageable even for Christmas market (Christkindelsmärik) since and cribs (Bergheim has a trail of fifty), strolling
the reluctant stroller who will be pleased by 1570 when it was part of the Holy Roman minstrels, children singing Christmas carols,
the number of characterful ‘winstubs’ (taverns) Empire. The seat of the European Parliament aproned locals selling local lace and delicacies
and restaurants en route where it’s possible to and capital of the Bas-Rhin department’s like bredeles (star anise flavoured twists ), pain
try foie gras (an Alsatian invention), baeckeoffe market boasts Europe’s largest Christmas tree d’epices loaves, hot fruit juice and brandy elixirs
(a meat and white wine stew), matelote (fish (sapin de Noël). and spiced bierre de Noël.
simmered in a wine and onion sauce), onion
tart/tarte flambée (a kind of double cream and But the markets under Riquewihr’s ramparts, Rather than an exercise in Noël tourism,
onion pizza), Munster cheese and kougelhopf, in the Place de la Réunion in Mulhouse, Alsace’s famed Christmas markets are
a pastry dessert with the looks, but fortunately Colmar’s Place des Dominicains and Place a celebration of local handicrafts and
not the taste, of a top hat. There is also a toy de L’Ancienne and around the Coeur de gastronomy. As well as the festive spirit.
museum. l’Arsenal in Kaysersberg are more intimate,
authentic and less commercialised. They feel Dreaming of a blue Christmas
Colmar’s Christmas market Perhaps the most atmospheric is held in
(Christkindlesmarkt or Weihnachtsmärkte) Parc du Champ de Mars Guebwiller in the Haut-Rhin department, 60
is one of the most definitive of Europe’s miles from Basel. Its annual Christmas market
increasing number of street markets which celebrates a ‘Blue Christmas’. The town is
go back to the late Middle Ages. Dresden’s decorated and lit in blue. Not in celebration
Striezelmarkt dates to 1434, although of the effect of low winter temperatures, but
Bautzen’s is older. Frankfurt held its first in the turquoise work of local nineteenth century
1393. Munich’s was 1310. Art Deco faience (tin-glazed artwork on pale
earthenware) potter Joseph-Théodore Deck.
In Germany, Austria and Switzerland, Advent
is often heralded by a ‘Christ child market’ North-east France is all very ‘gemütlich’. Cosy
held in the town square. Traditional foods and homely, especially at this time of year.
include Zwetschgen-Männle (figures made of
decorated dried plums), Kartoffelpuffer (potato Grape Escapes (www.grapeescapes.
pancakes), Schaumkuss (chocolate covered net) offers Alsace breaks all year round. Its
marshmallows), maroni (roasted chestnuts) Christmas Markets and Wine break is based
and lots of gingerbread men. at Strasbourg’s four star Cour du Corbeau
hotel and includes two nights’ bed and
As well as plenty of fortifying mulled breakfast accommodation, a private driver/
gluwein or vin du chaud. Most Christmas guide to accompany guests on a tour of their
markets start around St. Catherine’s Day (25 preference – they can either opt to visit Colmar
November), ending on Epiphany (6 January). (more Christmas markets) and one winery,
or go to two wineries. q
© COLMAR TOURISM

32 | www.patrickgardner.com

Fortanini

UNMISSABLE AUTUMN COLLECTION NOW AVAILABLE

7 1 HIGH STREET, REIGATE, SURREY RH2 9AE • 01737 24727 1
WWW.FORTANINI.COM

Why click to buy when you can feel, touch and try?

Fetcham £895,000

A deceptively spacious, well presented
detached bungalow built to a high
standard 10 years ago and situated at
the end of a sought after cul-de-sac.
The property has been thoughtfully designed
throughout and comprises a spacious sitting
room, dining area with doors opening
onto a superb conservatory, thoughtfully
designed kitchen, three bedrooms (one with
en suite) and a family bathroom. Outside
is a detached double garage and delightful
gardens. No on-going chain. EPC: C

Bookham 01372 452207

www.patrickgardner.com

Bookham £808,500

Superb semi-detached house located
within walking distance of Norbury
Park, Bookham Village and Polesden
Lacey School.
The property offers flexible accommodation
throughout, including a cloakroom, light and
airy kitchen/breakfast room, good size living
room, study/bedroom four, three further
bedrooms (one with en suite) and a family
bathroom. Outside, there are three parking
spaces and a landscaped rear garden. EPC: B

Bookham 01372 452207

www.patrickgardner.com

Newdigate Guide price £800,000

Detached family house built in 1959
and situated in a superb location in the
popular village of Newdigate.
Set on a generous plot of approximately 0.50
acres, this lovely property is now in need of
updating/remodelling. The accommodation
currently comprises a lounge/diner, sun
lounge, kitchen/breakfast room, further
reception room, four bedrooms, shower
room and separate w.c. Outside, there are
mature gardens. EPC: E

Dorking 01306 877775

www.patrickgardner.com

Leatherhead £725,000

A splendid ground floor apartment
(1,465 sq.ft.) designed for the over
55s in the award-winning Farthings
development, situated less than a mile
from Leatherhead town centre.
The apartment comprises a double aspect
sitting room, spacious dining hall, kitchen
and utility room, sun room, three bedrooms,
bathroom, shower room and benefits from
excellent resident facilities. Outside, there is
an allocating parking space and landscaped
grounds. EPC: B

Leatherhead 01372 360078

www.patrickgardner.com

Motoring

Flagship

Chelsea
tractor There’s actually not a tractor in sight as this elegant

New Range Rover defines modern luxury, providing more
refinement, customer choice and scope for personalisation
than ever before, writes Euan Johns.

38 | www.patrickgardner.com

Motoring

The Land Rover Discovery has now been around (can Metropolitan on the drive thanks to the 22-inch wheels,
you believe it?) for over 30 years and it’s true to say Bright Atlas detailing and the Hakuba Silver lower bumper
has changed a fair bit in that time. What was once a inserts. A panoramic roof is also standard, though of course
pretty agricultural 4x4 (we’ve all heard of Chelsea tractors no human being has ever seen the top of a Discovery
haven’t we?) has gradually evolved into one of the plushest without the help of several steps. But I can confirm for any
SUVs around, with the Land Rover range expanding doubters that it’s definitely there.
inexorably around it. For those who have one ear on the
recent COP26 discussions, this vehicle moves well into the Available with either the 360hp mild-hybrid petrol or
mid-thirties for fuel consumption leaving the twenties as a 300hp diesel engine (both straight sixes), the Metropolitan
welcome and very distant memory. is being launched as part of a 2023 MY facelift (actually
the launch is next year, which if you hadn’t noticed will be
While there’s no question that the newfound road- 2022, all rather confusing) for a range that’s been around
friendliness of the latest Defender has helped it become now since 2017. The update also includes an R-Dynamic
an instant sales success, the increased risk of it treading model for the first time in the Discovery Commercial, which
on the toes of the Discovery is real enough. The latter jazzes up both the interior and exterior but doesn’t impact
having been developed as a cushy middle-ground between on the space. So, whatever it is that a Discovery Commercial
stark utilitarianism and lofty Range Rover-based luxury. is used for – it doesn’t feel like a bricks and cement kind of >>
And while the Defender is still intended to be the ‘best
off-roader in the world’, its price and comfort levels have
elevated it to a similar market tier – especially in a world
where the price difference between it and Discovery 5
seems insignificantly small. Land Rover is aware, so with
its 2021 update the brand has sought to re-establish the
model’s ranking with some notable improvements.

This Discovery Metropolitan Edition is the new top-of-
the-range Discovery, providing customers with more luxury
and style than the standard car. Reflecting the Discovery’s
status as the darling of the suburbs. Take no notice of
the name this is the car for pub lunches, ski holidays and
country retreats rather than the hustle and bustle of a city.

To that end, the interior is crammed full of equipment,
including a head-up display, heated wheel, and wireless
charging. ‘Titanium Mesh’ trim is there to brighten
things up a tad. Outside, the neighbours will know it’s a

39www.patrickgardner.com |

Motoring

van – that can continue unaffected. You’ll just options are more sustainable, responsible, and road. Additional 20W speakers in the four
look and feel better doing it. progressive than ever. Customers have a wider main headrests create the most immersive
choice of materials and finishes, including sound experience.
With a suite of efficient mild-hybrid and innovative textiles and tactile Ultrafabrics™
plug-in hybrid5 powertrains – and a pure- with a continuation of Land Rover’s pioneering The third-generation Active Noise
electric Range Rover set to join the line-up in relationship with Kvadrat™ – Europe’s Cancellation8 system monitors wheel
2024 – plus a choice of four, five or seven-seat leading manufacturer of premium textiles. vibrations, tyre noise and engine sounds
interiors available across Standard and Long It is combined with Ultrafabrics™ to create transmitted into the cabin and generates a
Wheelbase body designs, the New Range a defining materiality option that is lighter cancelling signal, which is played through the
Rover is at home in any environment. and generates only a quarter of the CO2 of system’s 35 speakers placed to create personal
traditional leather. All good news there then. quiet zones similar to the effect when using
The luxurious interior is underpinned by high-end headphones.
modern, intuitive, and relevant technologies, Advanced speaker technology builds on the
designed to work harmoniously with the finest fundamental refinement provided by Just in time to add to Santa’s list the new
materials and wellbeing innovations to create the MLA-Flex body architecture to deliver Discovery range is on sale now, with the
a calm sanctuary turning every trip into an serene cabin calmness, using the 1,600W Metropolitan Edition available from £73,250. q
experience to savour. Meridian Signature Sound System to create
one of the quietest vehicle interiors on the Website:
The exterior colour palette elevates New www.landrover.co.uk/vehicles/discovery
Range Rover’s proportions while the interior

“The introduction of the Metropolitan Edition brings a
new level of premium appeal to the Land Rover Discovery.”

Finbar McFall, Land Rover Brand Director

40 | www.patrickgardner.com

Fashion

Professional and individual

Service a guarantee

Fortanini Menswear of Reigate is a far cry from the
mass-produced internet offerings of late: Suits of Savile
Row-standard – individually tailored – and high-end
quality casuals coupled with a friendly, personal service
on Surrey’s doorstep.

W ith over 25 years’ experience in menswear, our aim
is to ensure that every customer is satisfied with the
Fortanini service. Here, English tradition meets new
fashion and with very personal attention provided to every
individual customer. So why sit at a computer terminal and order
badly-fitting clothes online? Come in to our high street boutique
to see and feel the quality offered. It will save you time in the long
run and you’ll experience this very select service.

IMAGES COURTESY OF FORTANINI MENSWEAR Worn by you
Exclusive clothing from classic tailoring to stylish casual wear, worn
by you. Our selection, chosen with a good heart is beautifully
made in superior fabrics. Perfect in every way.

Fortanini Clothing as individual as you are
is proud Fortanini offers the best of British and European menswear
to sponsor for every occasion. We stock a collection of exclusive clothing
Alfie Prince from classic tailoring to stylish casual wear. All of our suppliers
are chosen to ensure our menswear is the highest quality and
Racing obtainable in range of sizes.
(above)
and Reigate We also offer Fortanini’s own and exclusive ties and suits. These
Priory FC. are beautifully tailored and come in a range of exceptional fabrics
and linings to make you not only look good, but feel good as well.
Left:
Fortanini Our extensive selection of vibrant casual wear caters for all who
with Peter seek style, quality and individuality at competitive prices.

Andre At Fortanini we pride ourself on customer service and offer a
personal shopping and alteration service, gift vouchers and home
consultation by appointment.

If you are looking for quality, personal service and great value,
visit us now! q

Fortanini Thank you
71 High Street, Reigate, Surrey RH2 9AE
Telephone: 01737 247271
Website: www.fortanini.com
Open Monday to Saturday, 10am–6pm

41www.patrickgardner.com |

Leatherhead £675,000

A rarely available, semi-detached
bungalow situated in a prime private
development on the favoured southern
side of Leatherhead.
The property offers good size accommodation
including an open-plan lounge/kitchen,
which opens into a large double glazed
conservatory, four bedrooms and two
bathrooms (one en suite). Outside, the
property enjoys delightful secluded gardens
with a brick built office/store and a single
garage. EPC: D

Leatherhead 01372 360078

www.patrickgardner.com

Dorking Guide price £585,000

A light and spacious, 1,350 sq.ft.
Victorian house enjoying a convenient
town centre location.
The property, which has been refurbished
throughout in recent years, enjoys a
mixture of modern and period features. The
accommodation is arranged over four floors
and comprises a formal sitting room, superb
‘feature’ dining room, modern kitchen, three
double bedrooms and a modern bathroom.
The garden enjoys well-stocked flower beds
and a terrace, ideal for entertaining. EPC: E

Dorking 01306 877775

www.patrickgardner.com

Dorking Guide price £525,000

An extremely well-presented property
situated in the heart of Dorking in
the sought after St. Martins Mews
development, enjoying views over
St. Martins Church and Denbies Vineyard.
This superb two double bedroom property
provides bright and spacious accommodation
arranged over three floors, having been
updated in recent years by the current owner
and offered in show home order. There is a
private garage, carport and visitors’ parking.
No onward chain. EPC: C

Dorking 01306 877775

www.patrickgardner.com

Ashtead £475,000

Superb ground floor apartment
conveniently situated in a charming
gated courtyard development within
walking distance of the village centre.
The accommodation comprises an
immaculately presented kitchen/dining/
living room, master bedroom with en
suite shower room, second bedroom and
a family bathroom. Outside there are low
maintenance gardens and an allocated
parking space. EPC: C

Ashtead 01372 271880

www.patrickgardner.com

Seedheads and fluffy grasses
are wonderfully architectural
in the frosted winter garden

IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND
LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, SURREY PRIVATE GARDEN, 2017

46 | www.patrickgardner.com

Garden design

Winter sparkle
Emanuela Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Design reminds readers not to ignore the garden in winter,
but to take the opportunity to fill in gaps and enjoy the subtle beauty of winter plants.

Good gardens evolve with time and such as Alchemilla Mollis, Salvia Argentea or
through the seasons, and they become Melianthus Major will undoubtedly steal the
much more open and transparent show for a few magic days before finally dying
in winter, once leaves have fallen and been down or becoming less prominent for the rest
replaced by bare stems and empty gaps. At this of winter.
time of year a garden really needs its backbone
of shrubs and trees – from coloured stems and Winter gardens bring unexpected surprises
bark to the reassuring presence of evergreen for the other senses too, scent in particular
‘cushions’. But now is also a good time to being key among winter flowering plants and
take stock of what is there, to savour those so well worth a place in any good garden
often hidden sparkling treasures, and also to design plan.
establish whether the gaps that have emerged
are not too big, leaving the garden too bare One of the joys of visiting RHS Garden
and exposed in winter months. Wisley on an early winter morning has always
been the walk up Battleston Hill and the
Amongst the surprises that the garden sensation of suddenly being hit by the heady
brings at this time of year are the minute frosty sweet perfume of a distant Daphne, tucked
crystals sparkling on leaves and stems that shine away in a sheltered and shady spot sometimes
gloriously on early frosty December mornings. a good few metres away.

Dissected and whole leaves catch the Sarcococcas (Sweet Box) is another great
frost better than anything else, trapping shrub for this time of the year, with aromatic
sparkling crystals in the multitude of tiny honeyed cream flowers creating a cloud of
nooks and crannies on their surface. Plants perfume each time someone passes. One
would not want to be without them and so >>

Jon and Bella in the show garden they
created for the Istanbul Flower Festival
in 2016

Profile:
Alladio Sims

Subtle leaf forms and textures are key in winter, when most flowers are long gone Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Ltd
creates distinctive gardens. Jon Sims and
IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, SURREY PRIVATE GARDEN, 2016 Bella Alladio started the company after
collaborating on a Silver Gilt winning show
garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace
Flower Show. The two directors continue
their collaborative approach throughout
their practice with Jon’s background in
interior architecture giving distinctive
spaces and Bella’s passion for plants and
photographic eye adding great texture
and contrast.

47www.patrickgardner.com |

Garden design

The long lasting subtle spent flowers of Hydrangea
Macrophylla provide perfect winter skeletons in the garden

IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, 2016

we always encourage clients to find a sheltered plant with a strong presence that should be make a note of any gaps that seem too big,
and shady space for at least one specimen, or worthy of any garden. but above all don’t forget to enjoy the subtle
better still, we position them by an entrance or beauty of winter plants. q
a gate, perfect for that welcome back home. In the open gaps under the bare canopies
of deciduous summer shrubs and among Alladio Sims Garden
Another fond memory from RHS Garden dormant leafy perennials now is the time to Landscape Design Limited
Wisley is the Paper Bush – Edgeworthia discover the little unsung heroes of the winter Regional office: Lower Bourne (Farnham),
Chrysantha – a truly spectacular sight in the garden – candid Cyclamen Hederifolium Surrey GU10 3RE
midst of winter, this is a shrub covered in flowers and the clear, pale blue flowers of Website: www.alladiosims.co.uk
clusters of wholly white and yellow flowers, Iris Unguicularis, reminiscent of a winter’s Email: [email protected]
much like a string of Christmas lights, that light sky, the recumbent and discreet flowers of
up even the darkest of days. An added bonus hellebores, the frothy leaves of evergreen ferns The margins of dissected leaves look
is its leaves too, very exotic and architectural and heucheras, the heart shaped leaves of spectacular when edge with frost
once the flowers have disappeared. epimediums... so many small treasures!
COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, 2016
Adding to the list of sparkling beauties in the Without these winter garden beauties
winter garden are Mahonias, despite the love- a garden would risk becoming too static,
hate relationship they have always seemed to and not such an interesting space after
spark. But how could one resist their yellow all, incapable of evolving and changing its
plume of early December flowers followed by character throughout the seasons. The true
a cascade of long lasting damson-coloured mark of a successful garden should therefore
berries? And if the spiky large specimen is also be its ability to stand out in winter, and to
simply too much, then why not settle for its create an architecturally interesting space in the
new, smaller cousins, such as Mahonia ‘Soft dormant season too.
Caress’, with pretty dissected leaves surprisingly
thorn free. This is a wonderfully architectural This is the perfect time to take stock of
the garden, so go out and take a good look,

48 | www.patrickgardner.com