Innholdsfortegnelse for Aug-2018 i Woman & Home

“We all need a proper break sometimes… I’m longing to be digitally disconnected” I’m counting down the days to my two-week holiday in Kalkan, Turkey. It’s not that I don’t enjoy my job and the daily mayhem of family life but we all need to take a proper break from it sometimes, don’t we? Have you noticed that at funerals, the eulogy often focuses on the holidays the person took with their loved ones? That’s how important these breaks from our daily routine are, they represent the most significant times in our lives. At my mum’s funeral we remembered happy breaks spent in Whitby, North Yorkshire, and my sister and I still go back there every year to recall childhood memories and relax. Now I’m keen to create those joyful…

MY HIDDEN TALENT… I’m quite good at mixing on DJ decks, though my husband Bhupi is much better than me. THE SKILL I’D LOVE TO MASTER… My dream is to be able to fly a plane. MY DESERT ISLAND ESSENTIAL… A bottle of luxury body lotion. I hate having really dry skin. MY MOST TREASURED POSSESSION… My passport, so I can escape whenever I want. MY SECRET ESCAPE… The bottom of a bottle of red wine! THE WILDEST THING I’VE DONE… I’m pretty good at staying out all night… is that wild? THE ONE THING I’D LIKE TO CHANGE ABOUT MYSELF… For a long time it was my Indian nose, but now I wish I was more intelligent. I’M ADDICTED TO… Gorgeous-smelling candles. THE MOST EXTRAVAGANT PURCHASE I’VE MADE ……

Bullying. Pretty nasty, right? Not something you’d ever want to be associated with. Funny, then, that so many of us are in the habit of beating ourselves up. We set the bar high, and when we don’t quite make the mark, the self-admonishment starts: “Oh, why didn’t I leave earlier? I’m such an idiot…” or “How could I eat that whole packet of biscuits?” We’d never speak to a friend this way, so why on earth do we speak like that to ourselves? Treat yourself like a good friend “Self-bullying is something we do when we fall short of our own self-image,” says Dr Kristin Neff, a US psychologist who’s blazing a trail in self-compassion research. It’s important to realise, says Neff, that this habit of beating ourselves up is…

Woman&home have teamed up with Seaspray to offer readers 20% OFF their latest swimwear collection. Their fabulous new range offers cleverly designed swimsuits in an array of abstract prints and sophisticated block colours. For nearly two decades, Seaspray have earned an esteemed reputation as the experts in tummy-control swimwear. Flattering hold-everything-in technology supports all body shapes, with longer lengths, hidden control panels and skilfully positioned ruching. Drawing on inspiration from the natural world, the Spring/Summer 2018 collection is inspired by vibrant tropical birds, floral brights and the on-trend shades of delicate blue hues and fresh raspberry tones. Subtle embellishments and detailed trims add a touch of elegance to the one-piece suits. Seaspray continue to design swimwear with style, sophistication and support to celebrate your beautiful figure, giving your body the…

In 2008, Mamma Mia! became a smash hit at the box office, grossing more than $600 million. Ten years on, the sequel takes us between the present day and 1979 to reveal how a 22-year-old Donna (played by Lily James in flashback and Meryl Streep in the present) came to the Greek island of Kalokairi. Julie Walters and Christine Baranski reprise their roles as Donna’s friends, Rosie and Tanya, while Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth and Stellan Skarsgård return as Sophie’s (Amanda Seyfried) three possible dads. Plus, Cher joins the cast as Sophie’s grandmother. Prepare for a riot of fun, dancing, romance and of course, plenty of ABBA hits.…

READER-NOMINATED CATEGORIES Community heroes and Friendship above and beyond SOCIAL INFLUENCERS Best bloggers and vloggers shouting about midlife CHAMPIONS OF THE ARTS Fuelling our passion for culture CHANGING OUR COUNTRY Women in high places dedicated to making our lives better SHAPING THE FUTURE Working with children SUPER ENTREPRENEURS Inspiring stories of business start-ups BEST IN BUSINESS Doing exciting things in the world of work AND IN OUR SEPTEMBER ISSUE… “DON’T TELL ME I CAN’T” JD WILLIAMS AWARD Women making a difference in new and interesting ways CELEBRITIES DOING GOOD Stars of stage and screen who also do wonderful work for charities • Winners will be announced in our November 2018 issue…

• More than half of us (57%) now take their annual summer break in the UK – and the numbers are rising. • The average staycation is one week. • The nation’s favourite countryside holiday destination is Cornwall, followed by Devon, the Cotswolds, the Lake District, the Scottish Highlands, North Wales and Bournemouth. • The staycation industry is worth a huge £65 billion to the British economy. • One in five holidays will include the family pet. w & h…

“Go nautical and keep it red, white and blue”…

1 BEST FOR: OILY SKIN 1 Eau Thermale Avène Cleanance SPF30+, £16 The formula A solution for anyone who finds most suncare intolerably greasy. This offers robust SPF protection, inhibits natural sebum production to combat blemishes and won’t bother sensitive skin in the process. The verdict The answer to my oily- skinned prayers! Pumps out the perfect amount for face and neck, applies with the ease of a cream but dries to a velvety matte finish. My skin felt as fresh as an ice-cold mojito and entirely unclogged after several reapplications. 2 BEST FOR: SPA VIBES 2 Decléor Aroma Sun Expert Protective Anti-Wrinkle SPF Face Cream, £32 The formula Behind the hot pink tube and “happy holiday” smell lies solid skincare credentials. Here we have UVB and UVA filters, natural…

The gap between my aspirations and the reality is at its greatest when it comes to my holiday hairstyle. On the beach and in the bar I want tousled waves à la Elle Macpherson. The reality is more Meatloaf circa ’82. I’d scrape it back in the day, then try to style it for dinner. This involved wrestling with a hotel hairdryer (with all the power of an asthmatic pug), desperately trying to smooth the Brillo Pad texture into submission. My core body temperature would rocket to nuclear reactor levels, while my mood would plummet. And my hair would still look like tumbleweed meets fright wig. If your hair is well behaved, I’m happy for you. But if it’s flat, frizzy or fried, I’ve recruited celebrity hairdresser Ben Cooke, who’s…

Q My hairdresser’s too chatty! How can I get some quiet without causing offence? Sam Burnett, Owner & Creative Director of Hare & Bone: “It’s completely acceptable to want some alone time and not speak to anyone. Ask for magazines and mention it’s a great time to catch up on your reading. Being open and letting them know your needs and expectations is a great way to start a relationship for future appointments. They won’t be offended and it eliminates any awkwardness.” Q My last haircut didn’t work for me. Do I need to use hair lingo to get what I want? James Galvin, Style Director at Daniel Galvin and Kérastase Ambassador: “Before going into salon, it’s worth understanding your hair type, face shape and lifestyle before you decide on…

On the first Saturday in December 2016, Daisy Pye’s godmother was out shopping, weaving through the Christmas crowds, when she found herself in front of an enormous image of Daisy in the window of Monsoon. This was Daisy as she’d been just months before – a gorgeous, glowing 12-year-old, modelling for one of Britain’s major brands. “She took a photo and texted it to us,” says Daisy’s mother Jules. “She said it made her feel full of pride but full of sadness too – because just hours before, she’d been to visit us in hospital where Daisy had started chemotherapy for cancer. Daisy had been so ill and tiny, looking like an eight-year-old child in her hospital bed. If the people around her knew where that girl in the picture…

“Testosterone is also key in producing happy hormones serotonin and dopamine” Most women know about the potential benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – how tailored doses of the hormones progesterone and oestrogen, which women lose leading up to and after the menopause, can help us tackle debilitating symptoms such as hot flushes, exhaustion, aching bones and mood swings. But mention replacing another hormone – testosterone – and many of us gasp in horror. “Some patients think of testosterone as a ‘male’ hormone,” says menopause expert Dr Martin Galy. “They say, ‘Isn’t that going to make me grow a beard and develop huge muscles?’” Not only is testosterone (in the recommended doses) unlikely to do any of those things, but for some it can be life-transforming stuff. Women only produce…

THIS MONTH… Preventing narrowed arteries • Reasons for your eyebrow twitches • Having one leg shorter than the other Q My eyebrow twitches when I’m feeling tired – what causes this? A The medical term for this is blepharospasm, which occurs when the muscles around the eye repeatedly contract, and you have no control over this. It’s a problem that’s more common in women, and tends to occur more with increasing age, often appearing for the first time in your fifties or sixties. In most, the reason it happens isn’t known, but occasionally it can run in families. As in your case, tiredness can be a common trigger, along with bright lights, and sometimes simple measures like pulling at your eyelid, yawning or even humming can be helpful. Unless it’s…

Following on from the popularity of our first foodie cruise, we’ve partnered with tall-ship cruise specialist Star Clippers to bring you a holiday in the company of chef and restaurateur Aldo Zilli. There’s no better way to experience the wonders of Italy than on our new eight-day Ultimate Italy cruise, sailing from Rome down the coast to Sicily. Aldo Zilli is best known for his successful restaurants, including Signor Zilli and Zilli Fish. Born in Abruzzo, Aldo will be passing on his knowledge and insights during this exclusive trip. You’ll have the chance to meet Aldo, hear about his life and career, enjoy two cooking demonstrations and join him for a special lunch in Amalfi. “I’m over the moon to be travelling to some of my favourite parts of Italy,”…

Meet the famous writer DEBORAH MOGGACH, author of 19 novels, including These Foolish Things , which was adapted into the much-loved film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel , for a pre-tour talk and Q&A › Stay at the real Exotic Marigold hotel – the Ravla Khempur › Experience the beautiful Taj Mahal at sunrise › Take high tea at Castle Kanota – which was the venue for the Viceroy Club in the film • Stay in the characterful heritage property Narain Niwas Palace, Jaipur • Relax at the charming and historic Castle Bijaipur, Chittorgarh • Wander around the Amber Fort, City Palace and Palace of the Winds in the “Pink City” of Jaipur • Enjoy a private bullock cart sunset safari and jeep tour…

TREAT YOURSELF I’m very much in favour of experiences rather than things, and spa breaks are a lovely treat. SpaSeekers.com  offers up to 70% off, from Champneys and Bannatyne to more local salons. For the best value, look for day packages combining use of the facilities, food and treatments, and two-for-the-price-of-one deals. Afternoon tea packages starting from around £40 are popular. Want to unwind overnight? My top tip is to arrive on a Sunday, which is cheaper than Friday and Saturday nights. Treatwell.co.uk and goodspaguide.co.uk also offer great UK deals, while secretescapes.com includes discounts on spa breaks abroad. NEED TO KNOW This is an issue very close to many w&h readers’ hearts based on the letters and emails we’ve been receiving… Nearly 3.8 million women born in the 1950s have been…

Crispy salmon with pea purée A really easy way with salmon. Easy • Ready in 25 mins • Serves 4 300g frozen petits pois 1tbsp pine nuts 4tbsp crème fraîche zest and juice of 1 lemon few sprigs of fresh mint 2tbsp sunflower oil 4 salmon fillets, seasoned steamed baby new potatoes and pea shoots, to serve 1 Put the peas in a sieve and run under boiling water from the kettle to thaw them. Whizz them to a chunky purée in a food processor with the pine nuts, crème fraîche, lemon zest and juice, and mint. 2 Heat the oil in a frying pan until really hot then cook the salmon, skin side down, until crispy. Flip it over and cook for a few mins. Microwave the purée until heated…

GRAPHIC GOLD Having had a sneak peep of AW18, gold and geometrics are going to be big. Why not get ahead of the pack with this sophisticated wallpaper from Graham & Brown? It works brilliantly paired with blush and teal shades, especially luxurious velvets. HIGH STREET HERO Shhh, I’m going to let you in on a little secret… have you popped into your nearest B&M Stores recently? Here are a few of the fab buys I found in store, just the thing for giving your home a quick refresh for less. FAKING IT Now as a stylist, it goes without saying that I love filling my home with flowers. So, when I saw these beautiful “fakes” at John Lewis, I just had to touch them to check! Why not treat…

MY PICK OF THE MONTH Clock Dance by Anne Tyler (Chatto) In Anne Tyler’s skilled hands, the everyday becomes significant. Here, 61-year-old Willa Drake travels from Arizona to Baltimore to look after the daughter of her son’s ex-girlfriend, a move that will change her outlook on life. With beautifully observed characters and infused with quiet humour, this is another triumph. FAMILY DRAMA The Peacock Summer by Hannah Richell (Orion) Maggie returns to her childhood home, a dilapidated manor house lived in by her ageing grandmother. Both women harbour secrets that come into the open as Maggie confronts her own past and unpicks her grandmother’s. A wonderful emotional read that drew me in and didn’t let go till the last page. STRANGER THINGS The Story Keeper by Anna Mazzola (Tinder) 1867.…

While there’s not much time left to experience Dinosaurs in the Wild, an immersive live-action adventure in London’s Greenwich Peninsula (until 31 July; dinosaursinthewild.com), Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular is about to make its long-awaited return – and tickets are selling fast. The UK tour kicks off on 20 July in Newcastle, and sees lifelike dinosaurs on stage, alongside Springwatch presenter Michaela Strachan, who plays a paleontologist. Until 23 December; dinosaurlive.com…

• Monet & Architecture at the National Gallery, London, showcases the French impressionist’s depictions of buildings and monuments. Until 29 July; nationalgallery.org.uk • Strictly Come Dancing pros Karen and Kevin Clifton are wrapping up their UK tour with shows in Portsmouth, Plymouth, Cardiff, Birmingham, Bradford and more. Until 29 July; kevinandkarenlive.com • The musical This is Elvis celebrates 50 years since Elvis Presley’s 1968 comeback, which cemented his status as the King of Rock ’n’ Roll. Touring until 4 August; atgtickets.com w&h…

Pierce lives in California with his wife Keely Shaye Smith, with whom he has two sons, Dylan, 21, and Paris, 17. He also has a grown-up son with his late wife Cassandra Harris, and adopted her two children following the death of their father. My rise to fame... Playing James Bond puts you on an international stage like no other role. It’s somewhat a gift that keeps giving – I like to look at it like that, to embrace it. It allows me to make my own films, to work. I’ve always been a jobbing actor and I hope to continue to do so. My earliest memories... I grew up in Southern Ireland on the banks of the River Boyne and had a country childhood – a fractured childhood, in…

NICCI FRENCH  is the pseudonym for the writing partnership of Nicci Gerrard and Sean French. The couple have written 15 bestselling novels together and live in Suffolk. Read their exclusive short story on p88. • How do we relax? Long walks, long bike rides, long baths. • Idea of absolute paradise? Picking wild mushrooms in a Swedish forest, and cooking and eating them in the evening with our children. • Favourite chill-out track? Heart Like a Wheel by Kate and Anna McGarrigle. ANNA MOORE  is a regular contributor to The Times and The Guardian, and interviewed five incredibly inspiring women who never want to retire on p76. She lives in London with her three daughters. • How do I relax? I take my dog Mojo to a gorgeous overgrown Victorian…

There’s no stylist on Countryfile , so it’s down to me to put all my outfits together, which was daunting at first, but I feel as though I’ve found my stride now. I like to bring a little bit of glamour to the show, so this is the sort of outfit I can wear on or off-screen. The blouse is by Mint Velvet and I’m obsessed with dungarees at the moment. These are by an American brand called Carhartt – their denim and outerwear is so cool. And if I’m going out after work? I’ll add my old faithful black blazer from The Kooples and a pair of heels.…

1 ILSE JACOBSEN The Scandi brand with the chicest festival-friendly rain macs and anti-slip rubber boots. 2 CREW CLOTHING is your go-to for nautical-inspired printed scarves, striped tees, blazers and 24/7 shirt dresses. 3 CATH KIDSTON’S print-focused collection continues to celebrate all things British. Dress, £50, 6-16; tote, £30, cathkidston.com Quarter-life celebrations Three beloved brands celebrate their 25th milestone this year… ART ATTACK Be a walking piece of art in White Stuff’s painterly Van Gogh collab with the National Gallery. Reversible skirt, £55, 6-18, whitestuff.com DOWNLOAD NOW BROWZZIN Upload a pic of yourself and earn money from the amount of people who click to buy your look (no need to tag). There’s also a unique function to access items sold out online but sitting in…

THE GREEK ISLAND ‘I can lie in bed and hear the waves’ JENNIFER BARCLAY, 49, moved to Tilos, a tiny Greek island, in 2011 where she now writes and edits books. Shortly after my 40th birthday, I went through a difficult period after a relationship I’d been in ended suddenly. When the plans we’d had went out the window, I realised I wasn’t completely happy with the life I had. Now that I only had myself to think about, I needed to work out what I really wanted in order to make myself happy. “The entire village pulled together to look for my lost house keys!” The idea of moving to Greece had been planted in my mind a long time ago. I’d had a love affair with the country…

SARAH LOCKETT, 50, is a teaching assistant and lives in Bideford, Devon, with her husband Jon and their three children. When I was seven, my dad spotted a rambling house to rent in Croyde, Devon. It had eight bedrooms, an Aga and a path to the beach from a huge garden. Both he and my mum had spent their childhood holidays in Devon and wanted to give me and my two siblings that experience, along with our grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. There were around 25 of us in all. We enjoyed ourselves so much that we booked for the next summer, then the next. “The memories of those times have stayed with us all. They were proper old-fashioned holidays” Eventually we would rent the house for Easter and autumn…

The nurse who gives the elderly their lives back • Pat Taylor, 51, is Director of Health at iCareiMove (icareimove.com) in Falmouth. A registered nurse and fitness instructor, she teaches exercise and movement in her local village hall, and throughout the county at Memory Cafés for people with dementia. Her colleague, Alison Hunt says, “She keeps these people independent and in their own homes, listens to their worries and teaches mindfulness.” Pat’s classes are always full, have an average age of 78 and include men and women. She also trains carers at care homes in how to move and exercise their residents, and improve the care that they offer, plus teaches resilience. Pat says: “I used to be a ward sister on a trauma unit, but didn’t get enough patient…

“Success is going to bed knowing that I may have made a wrong decision – but at least I’m happy” What is your earliest memory? My first day at nursery – I was so angry when my mum left that I started hitting the teacher’s calves, and when she picked me up and tried to drag me away, I wiped all my snot over her top. Did you have a career plan B? As a child, I wanted to be an archaeologist; I loved dinosaurs and I loved digging. But when I told my teacher she said, “No, your parents aren’t rich enough for you to do that” – and the dream was scrapped. After I had kids, I also wanted to be a midwife or to work in a…

THE CATWALK MODEL ‘I’m still raring to go’ DAPHNE SELFE modelled in her twenties before giving it up for motherhood. At 70, after her husband’s death, Daphne was rediscovered and signed to Models 1. She’s been photographed by David Bailey and worked for Jean Paul Gaultier and Gap. Now 90, she has three children and four grandchildren, and lives in Hertfordshire. I never planned to be a model. I was working at John Lewis in Reading and won a competition to be a cover girl for the county magazine. I joined an agency and had three weeks training. When I had children, though, I gave it up, although I did do the odd commercial as an extra. Then, aged 70, my agent asked if I’d like to do a show…

We’re giving away a two-night short break for two people at the Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa. This secluded luxury retreat lies in the heart of Helmsley in the North York Moors National Park. Surrounded by countryside, the award-winning hotel and spa is hidden away so you can relax, unwind and indulge. It’s cosy yet contemporary and with artwork to rival a gallery. Outdoors, the hotel boasts a unique terrace and outdoor pool while indoors, open fires and snugs make guests feel welcome all year round. The winner will enjoy a two-night B&B stay for two people, including dinner and a bottle of wine on one night and access to the spa facilities. For full details and to be in with a chance of winning, please visit…

People don’t understand lawns. What most people call a lawn isn’t a lawn at all. It’s a mess of daisies and weeds and molehills and moss and lichen. There are bumps and depressions and ribbing and bare patches and brown patches. So when I went to see Mr Bailey up at the Rectory I was completely clear with him. We walked out on to the green area in front of the house. I wouldn’t even dignify it with the word ‘lawn’. ‘So what is it you want, Mr Bailey?’ I said. Mr Bailey works down in London. I’ve seen him in his car in the morning, driving to the station in Manningtree. Then he wears a suit. Now he was wearing jeans and a checked shirt but they looked expensive.…

Puffy, frizzy hair is nobody’s idea of a good look. Ben says, “The only way to control frizz in humidity is with products. You’ll need a creamy product (we like Aveda Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Smoother, £22) and/or serum (OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Serum, £6.99) to smooth over it. You may need to experiment to find the perfect mix. Put plenty on and make sure you comb it through evenly so every strand is coated. Another frizz fighter to try? Color Wow Dream Supernatural Sealant, £24. Beloved of beauty insiders, it uses invisible waterproofing technology to keep hair sleek. w&h…

DAISY SAYS… • Speak to other people going through the same thing. I made friends with other children with cancer – they are the only ones who understand exactly what you’re going through. • If you can’t see your old friends, stay in touch through social media. I liked being in the groups and seeing what was going on even if I couldn’t be there. • Always try to have something to look forward to – shopping trips, fun things, seeing friends. It’s going to be hard but stay positive and never give up. JULES SAYS… • Choose “point people” – maybe one from work, one from your friends, one from your family who you can tell what’s happening and they can inform everyone else in that group. Otherwise, telling…

“Jeremy was diagnosed with cognitive impairment – the word “dementia” wasn’t used” LOUISA LAWRENSON, 45, is an actress known for her West End and television work that includes Inspector Morse and Casualty . She lives with her husband, actor Jeremy Beckman, 54, who has starred in Heartbeat and Holby City , and their 11-year-old son Jack in Leatherhead, Surrey, where they run Acting Out Productions, using drama to remove the stigma from mental health. Jeremy has two older sons, Joshua and Barnabas. When Jeremy was diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment four years ago, in some ways, it was a relief. He’d struggled for years suffering panic attacks and forgetting his lines, crying in frustration, even falling…

Victoria Hislop’s gripping historical novel The Island has inspired many to visit the deserted Greek island of Spinalonga, just off the coast of Crete. There’s no better way to see it than on this exclusive cruise with the author herself, with our award-winning travel partner, Voyages to Antiquity. You’ll sail around Sicily and see the ancient temples at Segesta, as well as Taormina and the palaces of Palermo. You’ll arrive in style in Malta by pulling into the Grand Harbour of Valletta before cruising across to Crete and meeting Victoria, who’ll explain why she set her epic family saga on Spinalonga, the deserted island that was once a leper colony. She’ll also give an exclusive talk and Q&A. “I am excited to be joining the trip,” says Victoria, “as it…

8-17 November 2018 15-24 November 2018 14-23 February 2019 THE PRICE From £1,925pp* *Single supplement: £475. If you are travelling alone (like 70% of Wild Frontiers’ travellers), and would prefer not to pay the single supplement, we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share a room with throughout the trip. Hotel accommodation in the itinerary is always subject to availability; if hotels do change, they will be of equivalent standards of quality and comfort. Flights: please ask our travel partner if you would like us to send you a quote for our suggested flights to and from the UK. Our travel partner is ABTOTbonded and a member of AITO. For full Ts&Cs visit: womanandhome.tripsmiths.com/marigoldtour BOOK NOW Call 020 8712 0161 Quote ref TSINDIA FIND…

IN SEASON As July heads into August, there are more fabulous seasonal ingredients to discover. For fruit lovers, our English cherries will be in full flow, but there’ll still be crops of strawberries and raspberries to enjoy. There are still broad beans, runners, French beans, peas and mangetout to be had. For the salad bowl, think tomatoes, spring onions, fennel and cucumber. BOOK OF THE MONTH Honey & Co: At Home by Sarit Packer & Itamar Srulovich (Pavilion) From the Israeli married chefs comes this delightful book. It’s divided into four parts: For Us Two, For Friends, For the Weekend, For a Crowd. It’s how we all cook and with their utterly achievable recipes, it’s a book for the wish list. WHAT IS IT! Kefir, the next big…

If you’ve decided this is the season to get healthier, you’re in luck. With plenty of flavoursome salad crops and vegetables on offer, it’s time to let the ingredients do the talking – but make sure you use a natural, healthy oil too. Mazola’s corn and rapeseed oils are 100% natural and incredibly versatile. We’ve chosen three tasty dishes that are perfect for summer entertaining and use either Mazola pure Corn Oil or Mazola pure Rapeseed Oil, which will both subtly enhance the flavour of all your summer season meals. Grilled vegetable tacos When you’re entertaining, nothing says fun like a tasty taco. Do-it-yourself toppings are perfect for informal entertaining.  Easy/Prepare ahead • Ready in 30 mins • Serves 4 5tbsp Mazola Corn Oil 1 red pepper, diced 1 yellow pepper, diced…

When Kate Thompson and her husband Dan decided to move out of London in 2009, Surrey seemed a good choice. Not only did they need a bigger home for their small children, Tallulah, then nearly two, and Beatrice, six months. They still needed an easy commute to the City, where they both worked – Kate as a home move specialist and Dan as a commodity broker. “We loved living in leafy Barnes, having both been in London for over 15 years but realised to get our forever home, we needed to move further out. Friends suggested Woking but neither of us knew it well. Initially we weren’t keen, but once we looked at the trains we realised we could leave home later and still get to work on time,” says…

RIAD STYLE Why not create a Morocco-style courtyard area in your garden, mixing comfy seating with a few lanterns and cushions? I love this eucalyptus wood set comprising of a sofa, two armchairs and coffee table with smart piped cushions, £499, jdwilliams.co.uk Now’s the perfect time to prune English lavender Cut back by two-thirds in mid-late August, to the bare wood if needed for shaping. New shoots will appear at the base of the bush and then grow and harden before winter comes. BOOK OF THE MONTH Fancy a late-summer project? How about building one of the 25 beautiful small homes to attract wildlife to your garden found in Handmade Bird, Bee and Bat Houses by Michele McKee-Orsini (Ryland Peters & Small). GET READY…

Shari is the author of bestselling The Couple Next Door (Bantam). Her new novel An Unwanted Guest (Bantam) is out now. I write at a little desk in my bedroom, looking out of the window. I have two chairs: one for me and one for my tabby cat, Poppy, who sits beside me. I like working at home with my creature comforts. I like wearing my fluffy housecoat and yoga pants – I don’t want to dress up more than that. On a typical working day I get up at the same time as my husband and two kids and we have breakfast together. Then at about 9am, when they’ve left for work and school, I breathe a sigh of relief and…

Who Do You Think You Are? Olivia Colman, Strictly Head Judge Shirley Ballas and Boy George are among the eight celebrities exploring their roots in a new series of the hit show. Expect shocking discoveries, laughter and tears along the way. BBC One Nadiya’s Family Favourites From busy school nights to lazy Sundays, Nadiya Hussain has a dish for every occasion in her new eight-part series. She also meets the producers of some of her favourite ingredients. BBC Two Long Lost Family Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell are back on their mission to reunite estranged family members. Prepare to have your heart warmed – and broken – and keep your tissues at the ready. ITV Picnic at Hanging Rock Based on the 1967 Australian novel, this six-part thriller follows a…

Sacred Games Based on Vikram Chandra’s novel, Mumbai is the setting for this slick drama about a seasoned and cynical police officer battling with the dark underbelly of the city. Netflix Derren Brown: Miracle A jaw-dropping show in which illusionist Derren Brown reinvents the concept of faith healing through a series of spectacular stunts. Netflix Lady Bird Greta Gerwig’s Oscar-nominated coming-of-age movie, which revolves around a high-school girl (Saoirse Ronan) in Sacramento, is now exclusive to Prime. Amazon Prime…

If you’ve ever been one of the six million viewers who tune in to BBC One’s Countryfile on a Sunday night, you’ll be familiar with Anita Rani’s eternally sunny persona – whether she’s caught in a downpour halfway up a mountain, fleeing from animals gone rogue – or stuck in a heap of cow dung. And when she arrives at our cover shoot, she’s no different. “woman&home cover girl?” she beams as she sits down to chat. “This is a really exciting moment for me!” Anita’s career began as a researcher for the BBC, before her first big break came presenting Channel Five’s entertainment show, The Edit, in 2002. Since then, she’s co-presented BBC One’s Watchdog, become a core member of the Countryfile team, danced her…

Do you think there’s prejudice against older women and, if so, what does it look like? A few months back, when the Deputy Governor of the Bank of England said that the economy was entering a “menopausal era”, there was a huge outcry. Ben Broadbent explained that he was talking about economies that were “past their peak and no longer so potent”. Keep digging, Ben, keep digging! Mr Broadbent had to apologise for his crass remarks, which he admitted had “ageist and sexist overtones”. The use of “menopausal” to mean past it caused a national hot flush. Not just because it was rude, but because it was so shockingly out of date and could not be further from the truth. A few weeks before he cast these aspersions on the…

“Errr, Green,” said Alpha Male (AM). “You know that bike I bought you for your birthday? Well the police rang and they need it back.” The shiny blue bicycle that AM bought from an auction, which was then recalled as evidence in a case, was a particular low point on the cadeau front. So was the perfume. (I am a beauty editor, I get EDT like Jamie Dornan gets knickers in the post.) Ditto the silver necklace that was “similar” to the Tiffany one. “In my dream world, he would know what I want (like in the films)” I’d love to be one of those people who are happy with a handmade card from the kids and some burnt toast with a birthday cake imprint on it. But, truth is,…

Angela Evans, 44, runs her own cleaning business. She lives with her partner Michael and their 10-year-old daughter, Jorja, in Altrincham, Cheshire. It started when Jorja was two; I thought it would be sweet to make her a birthday card instead of buying one. I made a train with a photo of different family members in each carriage and stuck it on the wall so she could see it when she came downstairs. She loved it. Before her birthday the following year, she asked me to make another. Now it’s turned into Jorja deciding the theme – we’ve had unicorns, fairies and aeroplanes. I’m not a natural crafter so it can take me a week to make the card, watching YouTube videos on papercraft and how-to-make pop-up cards when she’s…

The running buddy who’s been a ‘lifesaver’ Angela Robinson, 53, was nominated by her friend Rosemary Leworthy. They met as nervous new runners, achieving running milestones together. Rosemary says, “In 2017 I had Trans Global Amnesia and my life was turned upside down. Angie helped me restart my running by driving me to events, texting me regularly, chivvying me along, encouraging me to socialise again and generally being a fabulous friend.” Angela says: “Rosemary traumatically lost her memory and confidence, and went through a very tough time. I hoped getting her back out running would help.” VOTE NOW! These women have all been nominated by you, and now’s your chance to vote for a winner by visiting womanandhome.com/amazingwomen…

Effortless elegance THE WHITE COMPANY WHO? Chrissie Rucker set up her mail-order business with a 12-page brochure and £6,000 that she had inherited. Fast-track 24 years and Rucker, now 48, oversees over 50 stores and was awarded an OBE last year. OUR CUSTOMER: “Think timeless style, quality and an attention to detail – it’s the detail that can make or break a great piece,” says Chrissie. I KNEW I WAS ON TO SOMETHING WHEN… “We went global with our online sales, culminating in our first international store on New York’s Fifth Avenue in 2017.” WHY WE LOVE THEM: Since they’re not trend-led, pieces will last for years. Billowing summer dresses, layering knits and crisp shirts are fab summer essentials. BEST-SELLERS: Linen T-shirt dress, £98, canvas stripe espadrilles, £69 thewhitecompany.com Feel-good…

Katie, 48, lives in West Sussex with her husband, John, and their two daughters, Natasha, 18, and Eleanor, 13. MY PAUL SMITH COAT It’s bright pink and I bought it 20 years ago in the sale. It comes out every year, so I’ve had to have it re-lined at least twice, but it cheers me up every time I wear it. GARDENING I’ve always loved gardens, but I’ve only recently really got my hands dirty and started to learn what I’m actually doing. My garden is where I spend any spare hour now, either digging out ground elder (my eternal battle) or sitting looking at the view with a glass of wine. THE FILM, THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT Michael Douglas, Annette Bening and Martin Sheen star and I love it. It’s…

VERONICA HENRY Veronica Henry was a scriptwriter for many years, writing for The Archers, Heartbeat and Holby City, among others. She writes compelling family dramas with a sense of fun. A Family Recipe is her 18th novel, set in Bath. Veronica has three sons and Zelda the Miniature Schnauzer, and lives by the sea in North Devon. Her latest, A Family Recipe (Orion), is out now. NICCI FRENCH Nicci French is the pseudonym for the writing partnership of journalists Nicci Gerrard and Sean French. The couple are married and live in Suffolk. They have written 15 bestselling novels – psychological thrillers – all published by Penguin. Their latest, Day of the Dead, is out on 12 July.…

Nicola Blackwell, 52, stopped getting interviews when she turned 50 although she had over 20 years of experience, so decided to embark on a complete career change. After finishing her hairdressing training in April she started her first job in May. • Go bold or go home. Forget wallflower colours and stand out from the crowd in one mesmerising block of colour. • Gold and tan complement bold colours, and by choosing more toned- down accessories, you can afford to go all out on your shoes. • Colour is empowering and confidence-boosting – who doesn’t want a bit of that from time to time? Keep it simple with one bold jewellery statement: stand-out earrings are enough with this detailed kimono Anne Newman, 69, lost her beloved husband earlier this year…

3 GREAT NEW EYE CREAMS • REFRESHING Decléor Hydra Floral Wide-Open Eye Gel, £35, might feel lightweight, but its eye reviving abilities are anything but. • CALMING REN Evercalm Sensitive Eye Serum, £30, is a liquid formula that transforms tired, irritated eyes. • REJUVENATING Lancôme’s new Advanced Génifique Eye Cream, £42, instantly brightens while protecting and de-puffing long-term. THIS AUGUST… I’VE BEEN SPRITZING on Sarah Chapman’s pollution-fighting, redness-reducing Liquid Facial D-stress Super Active Mist, £42. DISPATCHING (VERY) DRY SKIN with Aveeno’s new Dermexa Body Wash and Balm, £9.99 each. COVERING GREYS with Phil Smith’s fab Root Touch Up Spray, £6 at Sainsbury’s. ROLLERING ON Prai Ageless Throat & Décolletage Serum, £24.99. SKIN-DULGENCE Elemis are launching a new version of their supersize Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, £68, infused with rose essential oils.…

1 ANNABELLE, PAPHOS, CYPRUS This has long been a w&h favourite for its superb service and year-round sunshine. Now the island’s grande dame of hotels has had a facelift, boasting refurbed rooms and new rooftop pool, bar and restaurant. The spa has been overhauled too and has treatments by ILA and OSEA, and stunning views of Paphos bay; annabelle.com.cy 2 MEADOW SPA AT THYME, GLOUCESTERSHIRE This gorgeous, honey-stoned hotel in the Cotswolds has beautifully spacious rooms, a decadent cocktail bar and glorious views. Now it also boasts Meadow Spa. Using Aurelia Probiotic Skincare, it has an outdoor natural pool and a seriously relaxed vibe; thyme.co.uk 3 THE SPA AT THE PRINCIPAL EDINBURGH CHARLOTTE SQUARE Right in the heart of the city, seven interconnecting Georgian townhouses make up…

Let’s face it, being a blonde in midlife is something of a major investment – both serious time and money are involved – but it’s one that makes you feel and look fabulous. Summer, though, makes maintenance tricky – the heat, chlorine and salty seas are not a blonde’s best friend. But according to celebrity hairdresser and haircare guru Christophe Robin, there are three rules for looking after lighter tresses all summer long. 1 COLOUR HAIR WELL IN ADVANCE Have your hair coloured 8-15 days before any serious sun exposure. Keep colour subtle as the sun will do the rest. 2 KEEP IT HEALTHY The key to achieving a super glossy texture is to create as much suppleness in the hair as possible. Apply a series of plant…

LONG HAIR Kérastase Resistance Masque Extentioniste, £31.70; Percy & Reed Eau My Goodness Shine & Fragrance Spray, £22 SHORT HAIR L’Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil Shimmering Oil, £17; Bumble and bumble Creamy Styling Crème, £23 THICK HAIR Kérastase Aura Botanica Essence D’Éclat, £40.40; Colour Wow Dream Coat For Curls, £24 AFRO HAIR Aveda After Sun Hair Masque, £24; L’Occitane Aromachologie Nourishing Care Mask, £26 FINE HAIR Sachajuan Ocean Mist, £18; Philip Kingsley One More Day Dry Shampoo, £8 for a travel size ACCESSORIES Pearl Bobby Pins, £8.97, mykitsch.com…

TV presenter Andrea McLean, 48, lives with her husband, Nick Feeney, in London, and has two children, Finlay, 17, and Amy, 12. In September 2016, Andrea underwent a hysterectomy following a long battle with endometriosis, and the procedure brought on early menopause. When I went back to work after my hysterectomy and talked about it on Loose Women , the papers picked up on the story and “Woman Has Menopause” seemed to be, if you’ll excuse the pun, pretty hot news. I didn’t set out to become the poster girl for all this. It happened by default because I realised that there wasn’t any point pretending that I hadn’t had a hysterectomy or wasn’t going through the menopause, and I could see by the response I was getting how much…

Dame Barbara Windsor’s husband, Scott Mitchell, revealed earlier this year that the actress had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014. This followed a series of mental agility tests and a brain scan after she had started forgetting her lines on EastEnders . The couple had wanted to keep her diagnosis secret, but after her health deteriorated they decided to go public. “It’s becoming a lot more difficult for us to hide,” explained Scott. “I want us to be able to go out and, if something isn’t quite right, it will be OK because people will now know that she has Alzheimer’s and will accept it for what it is.” Following the news, Alzheimer’s Society has seen a huge increase in donations. enough to play cricket. But the…

THE PRICE from £695pp* *Based on two sharing, subject to availability. Limited single cabins on the main deck (sole occupancy of a twin) are available with a 50% supplement. This trip is ATOL protected and our travel partner The River Cruise Line is ABTA-bonded. For full Ts&Cs visit: womanandhome.tripsmiths.com/christmasmarkets HOW TO BOOK Call 01858 589 506 Quote code TSWH01 FIND OUT MORE  womanandhome.tripsmiths.com/christmasmarkets OUR PARTNERS The River Cruise Line offers an exciting collection of 26 itineraries to 15 countries throughout Europe; www.rivercruiseline.co.uk Tripsmiths partners with leading tour operators and select media brands to deliver exclusive travel experiences; womandhome.tripsmiths.com…

There’s no better place to learn – or improve – your Italian cooking than in Tuscany. And for our new four-day break with learning holiday experts Flavours Holidays, we’ve joined forces with husband-and-wife team Giancarlo and Katie Caldesi to offer the ultimate Tuscan cooking experience. “Tuscany holds so many special memories for us, and we can’t wait to share our love of it,” says Katie. As well as an exclusive talk, Q&A and food demonstration from Katie and Giancarlo, you’ll get hands-on cooking lessons from Flavours’ local chefs, plus have time to explore Florence and its markets, enjoy lunch at a local trattoria and visit a local winery for a tasting. See you there! Your special guests • KATIE AND GIANCARLO CALDESI own two restaurants in the UK and are…

“Once you’ve made the base sauce, you can add your favourite fish – try squid, mussels and lobster tails” Catalan fish stew I love a fish stew and this one is really simple. You can mix and match the fish and it’s all in one pot – fabulous! Easy/Prepare ahead (base only) • Ready in 1 hr • Serves 6-8 2tbsp olive oil 3 onions, chopped 1 large bulb fennel (keep the fronds for later), chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed good pinch chilli flakes 400g can chopped tomatoes 2tsp fennel seeds 2 bay leaves 750ml fish stock 250ml white wine 500g new potatoes, unpeeled and thickly sliced 1kg white fish, such as monkfish or hake, cut into chunks 300g large prawns 1 Heat the olive oil a large pan then gently…

• Make a feature of lighting, with pendants, chandeliers and oversized table lamps. • Add surprising pops of colour with upholstery in bright shades of blue, yellow and orange. • Warm up a new space with plenty of texture, such as natural linen and tactile velvet.…

1 PLAN SEATING Squashy sofas that extend your inside living room, a casual tray table to eat a late supper or just a bench positioned where you can get the last of the sun’s rays, seating is key to making your garden user-friendly. Make sure furniture is right for curling up on both day and night – a place to sit in the midday sunshine on a weekend and watch the sunset during the week is ideal. Arrange a sofa set around a firepit, which will add warmth and a lovely glow, especially if your patio area is in the shade. Outdoor pouffes and lightweight pieces of furniture are great for moving around, following the sun as it sets. 2 ADD LIGHT Enjoying your garden at night requires careful thought…

1 The Temptation of Gracie by Santa Montefiore (S&S) A week in Tuscany will bring Gracie face to face with her extraordinary past in this gorgeous tale. 2 Four by Andy Jones (Hodder) Four longtime friends. A weekend that changes lives. A controversial and involving novel. 3 A Match Made in Devon by Cathy Bramley (Transworld) Actress Nina flees London for Devon only to be caught up in a drama of a different kind. 4 The Secrets of Primrose Square by Claudia Carroll (Zaffre) A warm insightful novel that uncovers what goes on behind the closed doors of a Dublin Square. 5 The Greek Escape by Karen Swan (Pan) When Chloe escapes from her ex and lands up in Greece, expect mystery, romance and scandal.…

Star sign of the month LEO 24 JULY – 23 AUGUST  If in doubt, don’t. Actions made in the heat of the moment could backfire. Keep your family close and your enemies closer. For weekly updates, call 09058-170545* THE MONTHS AHEAD  A career upgrade for some, a new home location for others. Late November is full of bright potential. Manifest your desires. To hear a detailed breakdown of the next few months, phone Penny on 09058-170474* VIRGO 24 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER The weekend of the 25th brings closure. Much of what happens in August may seem like fate, but events have been brewing a while. Weekly update 09058-170546* Six months ahead 09058-170475* LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 23 OCTOBER Your love life veers from the sublime to the seriously weird.…