Internship at Scottish Woman Magazine and Freelance

what’sHOT

Going out or staying in – here’s your complete entertainment guide. Get it on… by COLLEEN REID

REVIEWS

MUSICa treat for your ears

DVDsall you need for a cosy night in

Ali Campbell – Great British Songs (Jacaranda)

Featuring reworked classic hits from the 60s and 70s, UB40 front man Ali Campbell does it again with his 4th solo album.

Russell Watson – La Voce (Epic)

Set to be one of the defining albums of 2010, La Voce, recorded with the world renowned Roma Sinfonetta is one classical album to look out for.

Take That – Progress (Polydor Records)

It’s the album we’ve all been waiting for! With Robbie joining the gang again after 15 years, this album is Take That history.

K.T. Tunstall – Tiger Suit (Relentless)

Scottish Singer/Song writer K.T. is back with the third studio album and expectations are high after her debut album sold over 1.5 million copies.

Joe McElderry – Wide Awake (Sony Music)

Showing us exactly why he won The X Factor 2009, Joe shows off his amazing voice in his first debut album.

Olly Murs – Feel Free (Epic Records & Syco Music)

Yet another X Factor star showing what he’s made of in his debut album. Cheeky chappy Murs lost out to Joe McElderry in the 2009 final.

The Sound Of Music 45th Anniversary Edition in Blu-Ray

The Sound Of Music 45th Anniversary Edition in Blu-RayThe award winning musical is back, and this re-release offers not only amazing restored sound and quality but is packed full of extras including singalongs and trivia games to keep the whole family entertained.

Sex and the City 2

If you didn’t manage to catch Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda in the cinema here’s your chance with the release of the girls exotic adventure to DVD. Fighting against the traditional roles of marriage, motherhood and more, this holiday is exactly what the girls need to return to their partying ways again!

Desperate Housewives: Series Six

This boxset brings you more of the shockingly outrageous secrets from Wisteria Lane. If you weren’t already hooked when this was on television you will be after sitting down with DVD after DVD of drama and scandal.

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REVIEWS

MOVIEScoming soon to a big screen near you

Life As We Know ItAfter finding they have a compatibility score of zero following a first date, Holly (Katherine Heigl) and Eric (Josh Duhamel) are unexpectedly thrown together following the death of their mutual best friends. Named as parental guardians for their late friends’ child, these two learn to become a family overnight in this heart-warming comedy.

Made in DagenhamSet in the Ford factory in Dagenham in the 60s, this film shows the impoverished conditions facing the machinists. One woman, Rita O’Grady (Sally Hawkins) has had enough and takes a stand, taking with her 187 women on strike. This film tells the story of how the Equal Pay Act came into place and is a gripping drama not to be missed.

Eat, Pray, LoveBased on the bestselling memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat Pray Love is the story of one woman’s trip round the world in a mission of self-discovery. Leaving behind her ‘perfect’ life, newly divorced Liz (Julia Roberts) risks everything to find good food, religion and love in some of the more beautiful places on earth.

EVENTSdates not to be missed

Claudia Petretti’s Vivid Watercolours ExhibitionEdinburgh born artist Claudia, will see her work displayed in the city’s new contemporary art Sarah Dallas Gallery in Stockbridge throughout October. Claudia’s first solo exhibition for two years, Vivid Watercolours, will feature artwork inspired by European landscapes and images of everyday life.

Scottish International Storytelling FestivalThe annual Storytelling Festival held 22 – 31 October brings together traditional storytellers of Highland and Lowland Scotland and Scots who have travelled across the globe. With guest storytellers, music, song and a range of genres, there is a story to suit everyone at this great event in Edinburgh.www.scottishstorytellingcentre.co.uk

Scottish Woman has 10 pairs of tickets to give away for the Country Living Christmas Fair. For your chance to win send your name and address to: [email protected]. Closing date: Friday 12th November.

SCOTTISH WOMAN MAGAZINE 107

Kunstdog Art ShowPet lovers, if you’re in London, don’t miss this – see Billy the Bulldog, Bruna the Braque, Spencer the Setter, Bob the Beagle, Norman Aniston, Bo Obama and all their friends at the show. Artist Cristian uses acrylics/mixed media on canvas to create all different sizes and background colours. The show runs from 30th November – 2nd December and again from the 22nd December to 24th December 10am – 6pm at acquire arts, 155 Battersea Park Road, London, SW8 4BU. www.kunstdog.com www.aquirearts.org

WIN!

Hard Rock Café hosts Global Pinktober™ eventEdinburgh’s Hard Rock Cafe will be putting on a special three course meal while The Red Hot Chilli Pipers provide the entertainment, all in aid of the Caron Keating Foundation. There will also be a raffle to win a Pink Guitar, signed by Lulu, KT Tunstall, Alesha Dickson, Beverly Knight, The Bangles, Amy McDonald and The Red Hot Chilli Pipers. www.hardrock.com

Country Living Christmas FairTake the stress out of Christmas this year at the Country Living Christmas Fair at the SECC in Glasgow running 18 – 21 November. Offering small boutique exhibitors, it’s the perfect place to buy the truly original gift. Not only is the Fair a great day out with delicious food and drink, it gives you the chance to get everything for the big day all at once. Scottish Woman readers can get tickets for just £7.50 (usual price £11). Quote CLXLS 330 when calling 0844 848 0160 or visiting www.countrylivingfair.com/scotland/page.cfm/link=72.

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REVIEWS

eyeCANDYRORY MCCANN

Born: 24 April 1969

Birthplace: Glasgow

Younger years: The 6ft 7in Glaswegian began his working life as a lumberjack and was working as a painter on the Forth Bridge just before landing his first acting job.

Acting career: Although starting life as a labourer, Rory feels acting is his call and is willing to do anything to succeed, including returning to lumberjack work in 2009 to pay the bills in between acting work.

Infamous TV roles: Rory’s still widely recognisable from his advertising campaign with Scott’s Porage Oats in which he was the hunky Scotsman in the white vest and kilt. Since his days in adverts, Rory has been in various TV roles such as Monarch of the Glen, Shameless and his Bafta award winning performance as a wheelchair-bound ex-climber in Channel 4’s The Book Group.

Movie roles: Moving on from TV, Rory has been in various films including Oliver Stone’s film Alexander, Hot Fuzz with Simon Pegg and Mafia style action The Crew. More recently, Rory has starred in action packed Solomon Kane and Clash of the Titans.

Hidden talents: A keen outdoorsy man’s man, Rory loves climbing and is an all round sportsman. He is also an accomplished singer, pianist and harmonica player.

Did you know? Rory divides his time between homes in London and Glencoe and one day wishes to have his own castle there.

BOOKStreat yourself to a brilliant read

The Witches of Pollok by Anne Downie (£6.99, Capercaillie Books)A gripping tale of witchcraft based on a true story in 17th century Scotland on Glasgow’s Pollock Estate. A gruesome tale of suspicion, accusation and torture, The Witches of Pollock is a dark story with mysterious characters. Available at Amazon.co.uk and all good bookshops, see www.capercailliebooks.co.uk.

A Highland Feast by Millie McQuarrie (Free)A heartwarming, uplifting tale set in the highlands of Scotland; this is the story of an average family escaping the city to start a new life. On their journey they meet a cast of quirky characters and discover some wonderful recipes. A book to devour that leaves you wanting more. Available from Apple iBooks, Smashwords.com, Kokobooks.com, ebookstore.sony.com & diesel-ebooks.com

Coco Chanel: The Legend and Life by Justine Picardie (£25.00, HarperCollins)Find out the mysterious truth behind the woman who created the most successful fashion label of all time in this eloquent biography. Justine Picardie delves into the history surrounding Coco and her most infamous creations such as the little black dress.

British Wildlife Photography Awards: Collection 1 (£25 AA

Publishing)For the first time, images by the best British wildlife photographers are collected in one book. Showcasing the entries from the British Wildlife Photography Awards 2010, this stunning coffee table book is a celebration of British wildlife as captured on camera by today’s best best amateur and professional photographers with 10 separate categories covering everything from marine life to animal behaviour.

Temptation Street by Shari Low (£7.99, Piatkus)Meet Suze, Karl, Mel and Joe. They’re family, friends but is everything as it seems? Suze has a niggling feeling that husband Karl may not be as faithful as he seems. After hiring a honey trap to test Karl another couple are pulled into the equation. A funny tale of love, trust, fidelity and forgiveness.

WIN!Scottish Woman has five copies of Shari Low’s fabulous new book to give away to lucky readers! For your chance to win send your name and address to [email protected].


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WOMENinspirational


These three ladies working as successful chefs are proving they’ve got what it takes to make it in a man’s world. Words by COLLEEN REID

A woman’s

esley started her life in the world of art and attended Art College in Dundee before a

swift change of career landed her in the kitchen. Having always had

a passion for cooking it seemed like the perfect vocation for Lesley, however, she was the last person to realise this. ‘Having discovered that my health didn’t enjoy ceramic dust, I needed to make a living doing something I’d always enjoyed and shown a flair for,’ she explains. She started her first professional chef job in The Albannach in 1990 and has been there ever since. Having to learn along the way with no training was challenging, however, it gave Lesley a real opportunity to take her past hospitality background and transfer it into presentation and content of her menus and food. ‘Beginning this career so late has been challenging but once again maturity comes with many overlooked advantages,’ she says. ‘Credibility as an untrained chef and as a woman in a male-dominated industry was also difficult to achieve in the early days.’ Now with several years behind her

Female chef Lesley Crosfield runs half of a two-person kitchen with her co-chef

and partner Colin in award-winning hotel The Albannach.

L

Tart:4oz savoury short crust pastry // 10oz white crab meat (preferably hand-prepared, as chunky is good) // 1 beaten egg // 1fl.oz double cream // wedge of lemon squeezed // 1 tsp dry sherry // minimal seasoning of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Avocado Dressing:1 ripe but still bright green avocado // juice of a lime // 3 each of basil and baby spinach leaves // pinch of sea salt and caster sugar // approx 1/2 fl.oz best quality extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil // 1 garlic clove roughly chopped // optional ¼ chopped chilli or dash of Tabasco, but spiciness not required

LESELY’S CRAB TART WITH AVOCADO DRESSING (Ser ves 4)

Method: At Gas Mark 4, blind bake 4x4’ diameter buttered fluted tart cases, with removable bases if possible, for 15 minutes. Gently mix together all of the ingredients, keeping the crab meat as lumpy and identifiable as possible. Fill cases, ensuring no mixture spills over. Bake for 20 minutes. Rest the tarts at room temperature, they’re best eaten just warm, not hot. Whiz these together, adding the oil gradually and last, to judge the preferred amount. The mixture should be stiff, smooth and very bright green. Serve the tarts immediately, with a generous ‘dod’ of the dressing alongside.

as an established chef, Lesley and co-chef Colin have seen the accolades roll in starting with The Good Food Guide and The Macallan Taste of Scotland Award in 1998. Since then, The Albannach kitchen has received a Michelin Star in 2009 and various other awards for the hotel itself. Working in a male-dominated industry can be daunting for many women but Lesley is confident times are changing and women are becoming increasingly successful in professional cooking. ‘It’s become quite a trendy career choice of late and it’s attracting men and women of high calibre,’ she says. ‘Encouraging talent at an early stage in adult life, and presenting the option to learn to cook will make this look like an appealing choice of career.’The Albannach Hotel, Baddidarroch, Lochinver, Sutherland, IV27 4LP, 01571 844407, www.thealbannach.co.uk

PLACE?

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WOMEN


he Coll hotel in the Hebrides was inherited as a wedding gift from Julie’s parents-in-

law in 1984 and now along with her husband Kevin, she has transformed the hotel into an award-winning business. ‘The beginning could hardly have been less glamorous,’ she remembers. ‘The hotel didn’t have much of a kitchen at the time: it was painted bright orange, there was a big wooden table in the corner, some rickety old shelves, a stove and a little cooker. ‘Taking ownership of the hotel presented an opportunity and we took it with both hands to make it a very successful business.’ Julie has always been passionate about food but didn’t imagine a career as a chef. ‘I was handing round the bread baskets to guests at my parents’ hotel in Eastbourne almost as soon as I was able to walk,’ she says. ‘I’d worked in hotels since leaving school and done every other job in the trade after finishing college with a diploma in business studies. ‘But I’d never cookedprofessionally until we took over the Coll Hotel. Kev’s dad gave me one of Mrs Beeton’s cookery books and I was thrown in at the deep end!’

After studying various cookbooks and mastering the basics, Julie began experimenting with raw ingredients from Coll and testing her recipes on locals and friends, thriving on positive feedback. Not only did Julie’s confidence in cooking grow but as did the reputation of the Coll Hotel. ‘We were voted Scotland’s top islands hotel for two years in succession in 2008 and 2009 and National Restaurant of the Year,’ she says. ‘In 2010 I also won Gold Medals for Real Food and Hospitality in the Scottish Hotel Awards. Our guests are fond of good, locally sourced food.’ Being at the top of a male dominated career can be challenging but the Coll Hotel finds its kitchen abundant with female chefs. ‘As

a general rule I’ve found women more focused and hard working,’ Julie says. ‘Men tend to palm things off and can be full of themselves; women get things done! ‘There are lots of good women chefs around and plenty of opportunities for them to shine.’ Julie feels role models will encourage women to get involved with cooking on a professional level and believes a lot of credit is due to chefs like Jamie Oliver for keeping it simple: ‘Some chefs try to make themselves look good by creating tricky dishes but he makes it easy for people to cook.’

The Coll Hotel, Arinagour, Isle of Coll, PA78 6SZ, 01879 230334, www.collhotel.com

Julie Oliphant is the co-owner and head chef of the Coll Hotel on Coll Island. After growing

up in her parents’ hotel in Eastbourne, Julie is now

fulfilling her passion for food in her own kitchen.

T

Ingredients:Fresh pasta (or make your own) // 750g lobsters // parmesan shavings // cream // lightly dressed salad

JULIE’S LOBSTER SPAGHETTI

Stock:1 onion // 2x cloves of garlic // slosh of olive oil // slug of brandy & sweet sherry // 2x tsp tomato puree // salt & pepper

Method: Plunge the lobsters into a pot of boiling water, bring back to the boil and cook for 5 minutes. To make the stock, put the lobster shells & head meat in a large heavy bottomed pan with the onion, garlic and slosh of olive oil. Place over a medium heat until you smell the

sweet aroma of lobster. At this point add the brandy, sweet sherry, tomato puree and boiling water to just cover the shells. Add salt and pepper, bring to the boil then down to a simmer for 20 minutes. Take off the heat and leave to brew for a couple of hours. Check the seasoning, then strain to be left with just the liquid. Put the stock in a pan and reduce until you are left with a rich aromatic sauce, add a little cream and check the seasoning again. Turn off the heat and add the lobster, just to warm through. Cook the spaghetti for a couple of minutes in salted boiling water. Add the spaghetti to the pan and move it until it is coated in the lobster sauce. Serve with Parmesan shavings and a lightly dressed salad.

inspirational

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WOMEN


’ve definitely always had a passion for food,’ she says. ‘Eating it if not cooking it! I

was brought up in the North East of England and my mother was a good, plain cook who instilled the basics in me. She’s still turning out tasty dishes at the age of 80.’ With her father working in airport fire services in Uganda and Nepal, Jo frequently holidayed in Africa and Asia giving her grounding in international cuisine and an appreciation of delicious meals made from local, simple ingredients. Whilst managing the Aurora Hotel in Windsor for 16 years, Jo’s enjoyment of cooking flared as she encountered chefs and kitchens on a daily basis. ‘I enjoyed cooking at home for my husband Dave and our daughter as well as for guests at dinner parties,’ she explains. ‘I regard myself as a cook rather than a chef. No airs and graces here!’ After seeing the tremendous potential of a boutique hotel overlooking Tobermory Bay, Dave and Jo designed and built Highland Cottage to their own specifications. ‘It seemed a natural move for me to take on the kitchen role rather than employ a chef,’ she says. ‘The menus

have become more sophisticated over the years and I concentrate on making dishes look as good as they taste. It’s important to work hard and like the people you’re serving.’ Jo’s attention to detail and Dave’s great hosting skills have seen Highland Cottage win numerous awards. ‘We’re very proud of our Thistle Award – Scotland’s Tourism “Oscar” – also of our AA Red Stars and 2 Rosettes, our EatScotland Silver and VisitScotland Gold awards. Dave’s front-of-house skills [he was voted ‘host with the most’ in the 2009 Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards] have helped a lot too.’ As a successful female chef, Jo feels more women are surfacing than ever before: ‘Women are now seen to be successful and recognised in this role. It’s already happening and will naturally evolve as women chefs “make it”. There are after all, fewer and fewer bastions of male dominance!’

The Highland Cottage Hotel, Breadalbane Street, Tobermory, Argyll, Isle of Mull, PA75 6PD, 01688 302030, www.highlandcottage.co.uk

Co-Owner of the Highland Cottage Hotel in Tobermory,

Jo Currie, tells us what its like to be a successful female chef

in Scotland.

‘I

JO’S CHOCOLATE AND ORANGE

TRUFFLE TORTE (Ser ves 4-6)

Ingredients:450gms/1lb dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids) // 570mls/1pint double cream // 5 tbs Cointreau or Grand Marnier liqueur // 4 tbs golden syrup // finely grated zest of 2 oranges

Method: Line a 23cm spring-form cake tin with greaseproof paper and brush the sides with oil. Put the chocolate, liqueur, syrup and orange zest into a large bowl and place over a pan of water, simmering over a low heat. Leave to melt gently over the heat. Once melted, leave to cool for approx 10 minutes. Whip the cream in a separate bowl to a floppy stage where it’s not too firm and still slightly runny. Fold the cream carefully into the chocolate - a little at a time. When completely blended in, spoon into the prepared cake tin. Cover with cling film and chill overnight in the fridge.

inspirational

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Scandinavian

country easily rivalling Scotland for beautiful scenery, this is definitely the location for you

if you’re looking for a picturesque outdoor getaway. The Scandinavian country boasts mountain walks just minutes outside of most major cities and set against the spectacular famous fjords creates the perfect tranquil break. Each part of the country offers a unique visiting experience with the west know for its fjords and outdoor activities, the east for its mountains, the north, of course, for the spectacular northern lights whilst the south is where to spend summer with villages dotted around a scenic coastline. Lastly, central Norway is where you can really appreciate the country’s history and heritage. Benefiting from up to 24 hours of daylight in the summer time, Norwegians spend most of their time outdoors, so we did too! With stunning coastlines to be cycled and mountains to be explored, it was time to get back in touch with nature on this relaxing but action-packed holiday. The deep fjords scattered throughout the land create not only the perfect Kodak moment, but also an ideal location to let him catch the dinner whilst you have a go at kayaking in the clean waters.

In the evenings, we dined on traditional Norwegian cuisine. Meat and game are very popular and I even dared to try reindeer, moose and fowl, finding myself pleasantly surprised at their appetising taste. As a first-time visitor to the country I found myself speechless at the stunning scenery and with so much to see, you could spend days and weeks exploring this beautiful country. If you prefer to wait until the warmer months to take a trip north, take advantage of airline Widerøe’s Explore Norway ticket, the easiest and most cost-effective way to get around. Choose from 35 locations to visit from Stravanger in the south or fly north and stay in a traditional Lavi tent with Sami people. Prices start at £312 for a two-week exploration of the scenic country including flights from Aberdeen and Edinburgh to Bergen and Aberdeen to Stavanger. So, venture a little further north for your break, whatever the weather, and relish in the beautiful and peaceful scenery Norway has to offer.

Fly to Bergen and Stravanger throughout the winter months direct from Aberdeen for around £73 each way, for more information or to book visit www.wideroe.no.

A

HAVEN

TRAVEL Notebook

Breathtaking views, quiet coves and beautiful beaches – no not Scotland, we took a trip to Norway. Words by COLLEEN REID

90 SCOTTISH WOMAN MAGAZINE PhoTogrAPhS: ToP by rEISEMAL STryN, boTToM rIghT by bErgEN TourIST boArd/gEIr S. JohANNESSEN

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HOME IDEAS

EasternInfusion

Put an oriental spin on your home with these Asian-inspired accessories

Vintage Moroccan LanternDunelm, £4.99

Floating Sacred Lotus CandleGrehom, £17.75

Stool in DustBoConcept, £99

Pink Oriental Print CushionMatalan, £16

Oriental VaseMatalan, £20

Quadro Table LampBoConcept, £89

Room DividerBoConcept, £999

Soltera Tropica Hanging Egg ChairB&Q, £399.98

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HOME IDEAS

Sapida String Light B&Q, £22.98

Mimosa Side Table by Umbramylivingspace.co.uk, £103

Vintage Moroccan LanternDunelm, £4.99

Buddah StatuePuji, £35

Day BedOrchid Furniture, £1290

Wallpapers/ Wallflutters

1 Wallflowers, Eero&Riley, £26.50 for 252 Fabric Oriental Tree (Acid Green), Timorous Beasties £70/m 3 Birdcage Black on Ivory, Timorous Beasties £40/m4 Wallflutters, Eero&Riley, £26.50 for 205 Oriental Orchid Wallpaper (Black), Timorous Beasties, £250/r

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AutumnfashionpreviewFeaturing Marina Rinaldi’s exclusive new ‘Persona’ campaign shots for Autumn/Winter 2010,

feel and look fantastic in this season’s striking styles

bold accents1. J by Jasper Conran felt croche hat, Debenhams, £202. Accessorize Skinny Bow Belt, £10

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1

tailored3. Ted Baker Black Tote, House of Fraser, £3294. Beads, Marina Rinaldi, £106

3

4

Stand out by adding a block of colour Smarten up with these structured styles

heritage vintage printsAdd a touch of vintage to create a timeless lookGo back to your roots with traditional apparel

5. Cable Knit Poncho, Phase Eight, £856. Hemingway Satchel, River Island, £64.99

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7. Chain Print Tunic, Star by Julian Macdonald, Debenhams, £458. Printed top, Next, £22

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Persona was established in 1985, and is a brand of Marina Rinaldi which is itself a division of The MaxMara Fashion Group. It’s the ‘younger sister’ collection of Marina Rinaldi, both brands specialising in comfortable sizes, cut on a plus size block which is bigger in the bust, waist and across the back and upper arms for comfort and fit. Persona Autumn/Winter 2010 includes an evening/special occasion capsule of romantic blouses and tunics, chic cocktail

dresses and smart trouser suits with a scattering of sequins to take you to any occasion this autumn. For smart daytime dressing there are comfortable fabrics in stretch jersey, boiled wool and lightweight knitwear in silk and cotton or cashmere and wool blends. Colours are black, taupe, grey and white with highlights of fuchsia, teal and a flash of red. Persona is available in sizes 14 to 24 at the Marina Rinaldi store in Multrees Walk, Edinburgh.

Fashion.indd 1 6/8/10 18:34:31

accentsboldMarina RinaldiAll items: Price on Application

Fashion.indd 2 9/8/10 14:24:15

SCoTTISH WoMAN MAGAZINE 20

FASHIoN FoRECAST

Reine Tunic, Monsoon, £95

Cadadh Tweed Handbag, Street Shoe, Prestwick £65 Dickins & Jones Purple

Wool Skirt, House of Fraser, £65

Rings, Kathryn King Designer Jewellery, Kirkcudbright,From £1450

Lulu Guinness Lips ClutchThe Shoe Gallery, PrestwickPerspex Pink £165Red Snakeskin £210

Texier Red Handbag, Martin & McQueen, Perth£180

Red Boots, Marina Rinaldi£428

Quilted Lips Anna Bag, Lulu Guiness Ruby Tuesday, Bridge of Allan, £225

Fashion.indd 3 9/8/10 14:25:13

Tailored

FASHIoN FoRECAST

Embellished Velvet Satin Dress, Debut at Debenhams, £90

Black Waisted work dress,Marks & Spencer, £35

Tux Sequin Belt, River Island, £24.99

Irregular Choice ‘Spit Spot’ Tall Black Boots,Street Shoe, Prestwick,£200

Wilma Colton Jacket, French Connection, £110

Florence Top, Phase Eight, £39

Lulu Guinness Stripey Bow Wanda Bag, Lulu’s Broughty Ferry & Ruby Tuesday, Bridge of Allan, £225

Sam Edelman Yalene Boots, The Shoe Gallery, Prestwick, £230

Lip Blot Classic Top Zip Bag, Lulu Guinness Lulu’s of Broughty Ferry £55

Fashion.indd 4 9/8/10 14:26:23

Tailored

Marina RinaldiJersey Dress: £165Bag: £140Shoes: Price on Application

Fashion.indd 5 9/8/10 14:27:11

HERITAGE

Marina RinaldiAll items: Price on Application

Fashion.indd 6 9/8/10 14:27:44

SCoTTISH WoMAN MAGAZINE 25

HERITAGE

FASHIoN FoRECAST

Bitte Kai Rand Coat Dress, Big Ideas, Glasgow & Edinburgh, £149

Cashmere Shawl,Marina Rinaldi£361

Limited Collection Leather Jacket, Marks & Spencer, £39.50

Irregular Choice ‘Wicked Western’ Boots, Street Shoe, Prestwick, £125

Emperor Jewel Collar, Accessorize, £18

Tweed Dress, Next, £38

Ugg Lynnea Boots, The Shoe Gallery, Prestwick £200

Ugg Sheepskin Cuff Boots, The Shoe Gallery, Prestwick, £200

Fashion.indd 7 9/8/10 14:28:47

26 SCoTTISH WoMAN MAGAZINE

FASHIoN FoRECAST

Camel Check Wrap Coat, Wallis, £85

Black & Gold Silk Scarf, Givenchy, House of Fraser, £160

Elizabeth Rose Strapless Dress, French Connection, £95

Tan Leather Cut-Out Belt, Ted Baker, House of Fraser, £49

Pollyanna Leopard bag, Lulu Guinness, Lulu’s Broughty Ferry & Ruby Tuesday, Bridge of Allan, £425

Leopard Print Mink Collar, Marina Rinaldi,£389

Sam Edelman Charleen Flats, The Shoe Gallery, £104

Bow Wanda Handbag, Lulu Guinness, Anne of Loudounville, £225Irregular Choice ‘Flick

Flack’ Patent Shoes, Street Shoe, Prestwick, £70 Leopard Print Mink

Cuffs, Marina Rinaldi,P.O.A

Fashion.indd 8 9/8/10 14:30:08

VintagePrints

Marina RinaldiCoat: £405Bag: Price on Application

Fashion.indd 9 9/8/10 14:30:45

CATWALK

THECaledonianThe fifth annual Scottish Fashion Awards took place this summer recognising talented Scots for their contributions. GEMMA HAIGH and COLLEEN REID caught up with three of the winners to find out why they’ve made such an impact on the Scottish fashion industry

n a sunny Sunday evening in June, the world’s fashion glitterati stepped out in full attendance on the tartan carpet at the esteemed Scottish

Fashion Awards to celebrate all things fashion and Scottish. Held at the Glasgow Science Centre, the unique venue played host to the likes of judges Brian Duffy, President of Ralph Lauren Europe, Dolly Jones, Editor of Vogue.com, designer Amanda Wakely and guests including Paolo Nutini, Diana Vickers and Gabriella Cilmi. Hosted by MTV Europe presenter Laura Whitmore, the glitzy ceremony was followed by an exclusive Gala VIP dinner, Swarovski catwalk show and exclusive after show party, finishing off a fabulous evening perfectly.

O


Hilary Alexander and Antonio Berardi

Scottish Woman Features Editor Gemma Haigh with her mother June.

Jonathan Saunders and Amanda Wakeley

Founder, Tessa Hartmann

Host, Laura Whitmore

Gabriella Cilmi Paolo Nutini and partner Teri Brogan

Model David Gandy

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THE

After hearing about the competition through her modelling agency Stolen, the six-foot-one-inch schoolgirl from Dunfermline was shocked to even make the first stage of the competition. ‘I was so happy, I didn’t expect it at all,’ Terri says. ‘I didn’t even expect to get into the top 20.’ The fifth-year student at Woodmill High School has always had a keen interest in modelling and is very happy to finally be achieving her dream. ‘I’ve wanted to be a model since I was little,’ Terri says. ‘I always thought it looked really glamorous. In reality, it’s not actually as glamorous as I thought but it’s still really cool. My mum loves me modelling and my dad is very protective of me so he is wary but very proud of me for doing so well in the competition.’ Terri describes her shock as she won her award: ‘I just remember hearing my name then I hugged the other girls and started to shake. I couldn’t breathe and just knew I had to make a speech but didn’t know what to say. ‘I think I said “amazing” about six times, I didn’t know what else to say. I was so happy!’ The Scottish New Face award, sponsored by fashion website Boohoo.com boasts an impressive prize haul for the catwalk beauty. Terri won a modelling campaign with Boohoo.com along with £1000 to spend on the site. She also won the use of a Smart car for the year, £250 worth of Swarovski jewellery, free haircare courtesy of Toni & Guy plus Bobbi Brown make-up lessons. After scooping Scotland’s New Face 2010 and a busy schedule to look forward to, Terri’s dream career is truly off to a model start.

Terri McGlone, 16, faces a bright future after being named Scotland’s New Face.

Clothes & shoes: BOOHOO.COMJewellery: SwarovskiHair: Austin Shirley, Toni & Guy Edinburgh using Label MMake-up: Lindsey Cloughley using Bobbi BrownPhotographer: Paul ChappellsShot on location at Glasgow Airport


SCOTTISH WOMEN INFASHION

Scottish Woman Features Editor Gemma Haigh with her mother June.

SFAwards.indd 3 5/8/10 17:36:25

Jett, 22, from Edinburgh, who has just completed her BA (Hons) degree in Fashion Design was shortlisted for the award along with three other Scottish graduates. ‘It’s amazing,’ she says. ‘The Scottish Fashion Awards have given me a great opportunity that wouldn’t have normally been available. ‘It’s really good for those who deserve it to have recognition. There’s a lot of talent coming out of Scotland and it’s hard work trying to make a name for yourself.’ The category was sponsored by top British high street brand Marks & Spencer with a prize of a one-month’s internship with their design team in London. Not only did Marks & Spencer sponsor the award, but they also set the graduates a task. To compete for the honour, the finalists had to design an evening dress suitable for the broad spectrum of the high street store’s customers. It was Jett’s classic design that caught the eye of the judges and she is delighted that her dress will soon be available to buy across the UK. The young graduate always knew she wanted to study art at high school but wasn’t quite sure what she wanted to pursue as a career. ‘I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do,’ Jett remembers. ‘After high school I studied an art foundation course at Edinburgh’s Telford College. By then I knew I wanted to design and decided to go on and do my degree.’ She describes her designs as edgy but chic whilst being very modern and wearable. Jett names Mark Fast as an influence: ‘I love his work; it’s really contemporary and wearable yet edgy too. I also like the Scottish designer Christopher Kane. ‘It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get to where they are. Holly Fulton was my tutor at college and she’s been a great inspiration

seeing how hard she’s worked and how successful she’s become.’ Jett’s placement with Marks & Spencer is set to take place before the end of the summer and they’ll be working on making her chosen evening dress fit in with the Autumn/Winter Limited Collection range. ‘This placement is my next big project,’ she says. ‘But I will keep working within the industry and see what other opportunities arise. ‘To make it you need to have the talent, a unique look and be doing something in the industry that nobody else is.’ Jett says her future aim is to gain as much experience as possible in the industry to further her career. ‘I’d like to eventually have my own label,’ she says. ‘But I’ll need a lot of experience. You need a lot of drive with a lot of hard work.’

The Scottish Graduate of the Year accolade went to Edinburgh College of Art student Jett Sweeney.



SFAwards.indd 4 5/8/10 17:36:40


Unexpectedly the 32-year-old originally from Edinburgh, but now living in London, had originally planned to become a vet. ‘It was a tenuous route,’ Holly remembers. ‘As I wanted to become a vet, I didn’t switch to art until later in the day.’ I went on to study at the Edinburgh College of Art and then The Royal College of Art in London.’ The young designer was surprised to be nominated again: ‘I hadn’t anticipated that but I was obviously delighted to win again. It’s a lot of recognition not just for me but also for everyone in the team. ‘As I now teach at the Edinburgh College of Art I see a lot of talented graduates out there, including Jett who I taught. It’s encouraging with our strong Scottish textile heritage.’ Holly notes her mother as a big influence in her designs: ‘Mum always had issues of Vogue from the 1960s onwards around and I would always be messing about with her vintage pieces. ‘Vivienne Westwood is a key influence as she appeals to people, as is Galiano’s work in the early 90s. ‘As a new designer I try to be flamboyant and get my work out there but am completely committed to producing something women can wear.’ Ensuring her collection is wearable is a priority for Holly in her designs: ‘I would describe my designs as a ready to wear interpretation of

couture with an emphasis on attention to detail. ‘I prefer a clean, simple modern silhouette with a strong emphasis on graphics.’ And it’s this use of graphics in her designs that makes Holly’s range so distinctive. Not only does she design her own collections but Holly also has a range of accessories out with Swarovski and a diffusion range with fashion website ASOS.com. Holly’s future looks bright with so much recognition already and she says she is committed to making it work as a business: ‘I want to make it a viable business as it can be easy to be creative and not think about the longevity. ‘We are getting more industry connections and I’d love to push my collections abroad more. We are currently stocked in 14 stores in New York and have seen our turnover treble this season compared to the last one.’ Currently working on her Spring Summer 2011 collection, which she is massively excited about, the young designer says she prefers these collections as she gets to use more colour. Holly says she also has some more collaborations coming out later this year and interestingly reveals she is exploring other avenues that are not ‘strictly fashion based’ while remaining tight-lipped on the details. Definitely a young designer to watch.

Holly Fulton scooped Scottish Young Designer of the Year for the second consecutive year.

www.hollyfulton.com

SFAwards.indd 5 5/8/10 17:36:56


beautyCLINICskindeep

Be kind to your complexion with our pick of the best beauty products

OILY SKINHormonal imbalances can cause the skin to create excess oil and if not cared for properly skin can be prone to shininess and dullness. Try these products to combat oiliness.

The Body Shop Seaweed Facial Wash £6.50 (100ml)This mild oil-free and soap-free foaming gel cleanses open pores and rinses away excess oil. A refreshing wash to be used both morning and night it leaves the skin with a shine-free, matte finish.

The Body Shop Mattifying Day Cream £9 (50ml) Night Cream £7.50 (75ml)Use each cream morning and night after the facial wash to hydrate and moisturise skin. It controls excess sebum and shine by balancing skin leaving it clean, soft and supple. A great, reasonably priced solution that produces results. www.thebodyshop.co.uk

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel £27This oil-free moisture ‘drink’ maintains optimal balance for skin whether oily all over or in parts. Apply twice daily to face and neck all over, or just where needed to soften, smooth and improve complexion.

www.thebodyshop.co.ukwww.clinique.co.uk

If you’re lucky enough to have normal skin, you’ll find your complexion smooth, soft, often blemish free and naturally healthy. These products will compliment your skin perfectly.

NORMAL SKIN

St. Ives Invigorating Body Scrub £4.99 (500ml)Containing all the same goodness as the facial scrub, this body scrub allows you to get the same skin-perfect smoothness but all over your body. Use regularly to not only maintain a streak-free tan but to get rid of all that dead skin and boost your circulation. Apply to moist skin in circular motions and rinse.

www.stivesbeauty.co.uk

St. Ives Invigorating Facial Scrub £4.29 (150ml)This non-drying vitamin-rich apricot extract naturally exfoliates to deep cleanse and remove dead skin cells. Containing nourishing Swiss botanicals, to use apply to moist face with wet fingertips and massage gently. Rinse well and pat dry for a smooth and soft complexion.

www.stivesbeauty.co.uk

Estee Lauder Idealist Dual Action Refinishing Treatment £35.00 This gentle all-in-one treatment offers immediate, renewing benefits. To use, cleanse skin and apply a thin layer to a damp face, avoiding the eye area then massage gently using circular motions. Leave for five minutes and rinse for fresh, glowing skin.

www.esteelauder.co.uk

Beauty feature.indd 1 6/8/10 14:56:14


beautyCLINIC

MATURE OR AGEING SKINAs skin ages it can lose its plumpness, elasticity and wrinkles can form. It’s important to look after it correctly to ensure healthiness and radiance so try these products to reduce and combat the effects of ageing.

Seaweed Organics Seaweed Skinfood £13.50 (30ml) £24 (60ml)This beautifully scented cream can be used both day and night and deeply nourishes, moisturises and protects. It contains organic jojoba, sallflower and evening primrose which all contribute omega 3, 6, 7 and 9, essential fatty acids to moisturise and promote cellular repair, especially suitable for mature skin.

Available from 01389 841516 or www.dianadrummond.co.uk

Sothys Continuous Renewal Care Cream £64.50 This night cream detoxifies, repairs and restores health and vitality to the skin. Main ingredient H2CR (cell health restoring complex) boosts the production of heathly new cells. About Face’s Helen Graham says she could not live without this cream: ‘Clients who use this find their skin regains its texture, brightness and vitality.’

Available from About Face, Glasgow www.about-face.co.uk or 0141 204 4060

Sothys Eye Contour Serum £40Use this anti-aging eye product to tackle wrinkles and dark circles in the eye area. Helen advises eye serums should be applied with your ring finger: ‘It’s the finger with the least pressure and is therefore least likely to drag the delicate skin around the eye.’

Available from About Face, Glasgow www.about-face.co.uk or 0141 204 4060

Arran Aromatics Aloe Vera Leg Gel £7.50 & Hand Soother £8Packed full of nourshing moisturising powers, these products are perfect for sensitive skin. Smooth the leg gel onto restless legs and slather generous handfuls of the hand soother on to rejuvenate your senses and leave your skin feeling smooth, silky and smelling beautifully.

SENSITIVE SKINSensitive skin can range from minor irritations to more severe skin distresses so it’s important to treat it carefully. These products will soothe your skin and neutralise any inflammations.

Murad Correcting Moisturiser SPF 15 £29.95 (50ml)Use this to protect irritated skin, as it not only minimises redness but shields against sun damage. Vitamin K reduces surface redness while goji berry extract reduces inflamed skin resulting in a radiant complexion. Massage into face and neck morning and night.

www.murad.co.uk

Murad Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum £38.95 (30ml) This lightweight serum hydrates skin on contact, improving suppleness and resiliency to help decrease irritation and redness. Hyaluronic acid and glycolipids allow skin to attract vital moisturiser. Massage evenly over face, neck and chest after cleansing and toning.

www.murad.co.ukwww.arranaromatics.com



beautyCLINIC

2 Elemis Balancing Lime Blossom Cleanser £19 Rich in vitamin E and blended with an egg yolk base, extracts of lime blossom flower help to cleanse and normalise the skin. By balancing excess surface oils, the cleanser removes skin impurities whilst nourishing the skin. Apply morning and night with a light, fingertip massage before applying toner.

DRY SKINDry skin can lead to itching, as well as flaking so it’s important to keep skin hydrated with the right products. Using appropriate moisturisers like these can revive dryness and leave your complexion smooth and glowing.

Chanel Hydramax + Active, Active Moisture Mask £34This new product from Chanel envelops the skin in freshness and relaxes the senses. Ideal for restoring comfort, radiance, softness and suppleness to dry and dehydrated skin. Massage one to three times a week to face and leave to soak in for ten minutes for a fresh and luminous complexion.

1 ESPA Replenishing Face Treatment Oil £50A rich, nourishing deeply hydrating face oil, which replenishes and revitalises tired and delicate skin. Formulated with essential oils such as neroli, rose otto and bezoin they work together to strengthen and soothe tired, dehydrated and stressed skin. Use once a day for soft, smooth skin.

2 ESPA Cellular Hydration Concentrate

£80This product is for extremely dehydrated skin with exceptional moisturising qualities. With long-lasting effects across all layers of skin, it also stimulates collagen production for softer skin. To apply, gently press three to four drops into the skin of the face and neck morning and

www.espaonline.com

www.espaonline.com

Stockists 02074933836

COMBINATION SKINIf you have combination skin, you’ll find some parts of your face dry while other parts feel oily. Look after your skin with neutralising products designed for your type, like these.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant £35.10This unique rice-based enzyme powder microfoliates dulling debris and instantly leaves skin noticeably smoother and brighter. Its super-soothing blend of green tea, ginkgo and colloidal oatmeal helps calm skin, leaving it clear and refreshed. Apply to face in circular motions and massage gently for one minute before rinsing.

Stockists www.dermalogica.com/uk

1 Elemis Balancing Lavender Toner £19This toner contains a natural alternative to alcohol known as ‘Sweet Betty Flower’ and is blended with the balancing extract of lavender. It treats, balances and tones the skin without stripping it, plus it aids the penetration of moisturiser or night cream. Simply apply to face with a cotton wool pad.

Available from The Green Room, Dundee www.the-greenroom.com 01382 200 998 / 01382 203 633

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MAKE-UP MASTERCLASS

eyesbigFollow our expert tips to ensure your eyes stand out this autumn

BeautifulChristian Eyebrow Make-up £25.99 (Available from www.izabelleham-mon.com with stockists across Scotland)

If you have over-plucked, fair or sparse eyebrows this is the perfect remedy. Available in eight natural colours, it’s water-resistant and lasts up to 24 hours. The kit includes three different shaped eyebrow stencils specially designed to help as a guide to create thin, natural or thick-shaped eyebrows.

Illamasqua Brow and Lash Gel £10.77‘Eyebrows not only frame your eyes but frame your whole face. A per-fectly defined brow can lift the eyes and give a really youthful look. Try Illamasqua Brow and Lash Gel which will keep your brows perfectly in shape all day long.’ - Freda Howden, Make-up Artist, Philip Politi, Edinburgh

Clinique’s Like Mink CollectionLimited Edition High Impact Mas-cara in Brightening Black £14.50Limited Edition Quickliner for Eyes Intense in Intense Coffee £13.00Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Like Mink £18.50Quick Eyes Cream Shadow in Sparkling Nude £13.50(www.clinique.co.uk)

This new autumn collection from Clinique pairs sparkling beiges with deep golden browns for a dramatic take on neutrals.‘The Like Mink collection has a beautiful range of colours that highlight and define the eyes using soft, neutral shades. With these products it is possible to naturally accentuate your eyes making you look more fresh and awake.’-Chloe Butcher, Make-up Artist

Bobbi BrownSparkle Eye Shadow in Denim £14.50Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Denim Ink £15Extreme Party Mascara in Denim £17.50(www.bobbibrown.co.uk)

This new range from Bobbi Brown is inspired by Bobbi’s love for jeans. Sweep Eye Shadow across the eyelid, line upper lashline and finish with two to three coats of the mascara.‘Everyone looks great in jeans – and anyone can pull off a dark denim eye. The blue shadows, mascara and liner have a real downtown look.’-Bobbi Brown

BigEyes.indd 2 6/8/10 09:34:32


MAKE-UP MASTERCLASS

eyes

Benefit‘Big Beautiful Eye’ Eye Contour Kit £23.50 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk)

This kit is all you need to define, contour and enhance your eyes. The palette includes a step-by-step make-up lesson, boi-ing concealer, alabaster pink base shadow, cocoa shimmer contour shadow, rich chocolate brown liner shadow and two brushes for easy application. ‘The colours used in this kit mean they can be worn everyday. The step-by-step guide teaches you exactly how and where to apply each item, resulting in a flawless look and big, beautiful eyes.’ - Gemma Haigh, Scottish Woman beauty writer

MACMAC Paint Pot in Painterly £13 MAC Black Track Fluidline £12.50 (www.maccosmetics.co.uk)

ChanelIntense Volume and Sensational Curl Mascara £21.50Le Crayon Khol in Blanc £16(Stockists 020 7493 3836)

‘Eyes are the most important aspect of make-up. I like to use MAC Paint Pot in Painterly, as it’s a really nude natural shade so not only does it prime the eye but it also intensifies any other shadow on

top. Finish with MAC Black Track Fluidline gel liner and complete with any Chanel mascara, they are all great.’-Sandra Cormack, SC Make-up Artistry

Nouveau LashesSemi-Permanent Eyelash Exten-sions from £60(Available at Zen Lifestyle Salons, www.zen-lifestyle.com, 0131 226 6777 / 0131 477 3535)

Much more subtle and realistic than false lashes, these extensions last two to three months with maintenance required every two to three weeks.‘Every girl looks prettier, younger, health-ier and sexier with longer lashes. Full, long lashes really emphasise the eyes and make them look bigger. A really feminine, natural look can be achieved with modern eyelash extension systems.’-Fiona Fowley, Zen Lifestyle, Edinburgh

BlincBlinc Mascara £18(www.blincuk.co.uk)

This water-resistant mascara will not smudge, clump or flake, even if you cry or rub your eyes whilst adding both volume and length.

Estee LauderDoublewear Light Foundation £xx (www.esteelauder.co.uk)

‘One product I really do love is Blinc Mascara – it forms tube around each lash and never smudges. Begin with white eyeliner on the inner rim of the lower eyelids to extend the whites of the eyes and make them look bigger. Also apply a light foundation across the eyelid to make your eye make-up last longer.’-Helen Graham, About Face, Glasgow

bareMineralsSmoky Eye Tutorial £30(Stockists 0870 850 6655)

This unique eye tutorial set guides you with simple steps to achieve that sultry, smoky eye look. The set contains Skyline Eye Shadow in Gray Lilac, Celestine Glimmer in Shimmering Pewter and a Double-ended Smokey Eye Brush.‘I found the tutorial really simple to follow and I was really happy with the results. It’s a great way to achieve smoky eyes if you are inexperienced with eye make-up.’ -Colleen Reid, Scottish Woman beauty assistant

BigEyes.indd 3 6/8/10 09:34:43


Sr Placida (Jane McCann), 49 of Greenock has been a Catholic missionary in Kenya for the past 20 years.

JANE MCCANN

making adifferenceThese three incredible Scottish ladies tell us what they are doing around the world to help others less fortunate. Interviews by COLLEEN REID

INSPIRING SCOTTISH WOMEN

atholic Nun Sr Placida has spent the past two decades in

Africa creating and maintaining a community-based organisation called the Live With Hope Centre. The centre is a HIV integrated project in the slum areas of Kericho and offers both medical help and community support for HIV victims in the impoverished area. ‘My main work is in the administration and coordination of the four departments,’ Sr Placida explains. ‘They are the home based care and HIV clinic, HIV prevention programmes, voluntary counselling and testing and finally orphans and vulnerable children.’ Sr Placida’s aim is to bring hope to people who live in devastating circumstances in the extremely deprived area.‘The housing is pathetic and the signs of poverty and unemployment are evident everywhere you look,’ Sr Placida says. ‘This leads to many other problems such as prostitution, the brewing and selling of illegal alcohol, crime, hopelessness, and of course, high incidences of HIV infection.’ The area is still struggling after suffering tribal unrest following the elections in 2007. Although starting to die down over the last three years,

violence and danger are feared to escalate again with the coming elections in 2011 unless crucial reconciliation links between tribes are established. ‘This past year has seen a rise in the number of violent crimes,’ Sr Placida says. ‘In December 2009, our friend, Fr. Gerry Roche, was brutally murdered by a group of hired thugs in his own home in the neighbouring parish. It gave us all a terrible shock and has made us more security-conscious.’ The Glasgow born missionary believes most of the areas problems are due to political corruption in Kenya. She often sees projects starting but failing due to donor money not being used in the way intended. She feels the Live With Hope Centre has succeeded thanks to showing exactly where funding is being used. ‘It is vital that we try to let people know that is it possible to run a project with accountability, transparency, efficiency and integrity,’ Sr Placida says. ‘The funds we are

given must be scrupulously accounted for and all the programmes monitored and evaluated so that the donor funding is put to the best use.’ Despite the centre having support from family, friends and school children, Live With Hope now receives funding from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR), which has allowed expansion of the departments within the centre. This expansion is vital to the people of Kericho and a recent project shows exactly why. ‘We recently opened a transitional care and training centre for HIV positive adolescents who were having problems at home,’ Sr Placida explains. ‘We took in 10 boys and girls who were quite weak and sickly. After only one month of good care, the change in these kids was absolutely amazing! ‘They had all put on weight, looked happy and healthy, they also learned the importance of taking their anti-retroviral drugs frequently and, best of all, they felt loved and accepted. The happy faces you see when you visit the home gives you a feeling that money just can’t buy.’

Sr. Placida and the whole voluntary team at the Live With Hope Centre continue their efforts to reduce the prevalence rate of HIV and creating programmes in which the people help themselves out of poverty.

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Womenmakingdifference.indd 2 5/8/10 18:57:44



rt teacher Frances had often made jewellery as a hobby but

the idea to turn that into a business came after accompanying her husband on a two-year engineering consultancy assignment in India. Staying in the capital of Rajasthan, Frances and her husband encountered the incredible poverty that much of India faces amidst the vibrant and colourful backdrop of Jaipur. And Frances noted it was the women and children in particular that seemed to suffer the most, despite legislation in place which makes it illegal to discriminate against women.‘I saw countless women living under incredible hardship,’ Frances recalls. ‘Many women work in jobs where heavy labour is required – they work on the roads, on construction sites and as gardeners in parks.’ Frances remembers watching women bringing their young children and even babies to a construction site near to where she lived: ‘They arrived very early in the morning and proceeded to lay out a breakfast which they had prepared before they left their homes that morning. ‘They would then start a full day’s work carrying heavy cement, bricks and water. When the day’s work was over the women would wash all the clothes for their families and begin to cook dinner. All this done while they watched their young children.’

It was this suffering that motivated Frances to do something to help the women and their difficult situation. ‘Jaipur has a long history of jewellery making, going back for centuries,’ Frances says. ‘And when I arrived and saw the wonderful stones, silver and jewellery, I knew that other women, if they saw it, would love it too.’ Frances found a new factory building on the outskirts of Jaipur that had policies in place to ensure workers were treated fairly. This factory was the start of her ethical jewellery business. She also met a businessman, Mr Aziz, who held her beliefs of fair workers close to his own heart. ‘The workers are paid a fair wage, given a good lunch every day, time off and most important for me, the factory runs a small school for the worker’s children,’ Frances explains. ‘They are also very skilled craftsmen and I was able to work closely with them on our “Designer” and “Classic” Collections. ‘And apart from being very creative, Mr Aziz is a devout Muslim and provides destitute Muslim women with shelter, food and schooling for their children in return for the work that they do.’ Alongside her business, Frances is also a strong supporter of a charity called Bal Rashmi Society and donates money from sales to the cause. The charity, founded by Alice Garg, provides women in India with the tools to help themselves. Frances was impressed by the charity’s ongoing projects such as the rehabilitation of ponds in desert villages. The ponds in the villages often dry up meaning the women and

Frances, 57 of Killin has been running Franki Baker Designer Jewellery for the past three years, exporting items from Jaipur in India.

FRANCES BAKER young girls must walk for miles to find a source of clean water which can be dangerous. ‘Bal Rashmi gives the women food whilst they work long hours every day in 45 degree heat to desalt and deepen their ponds and plant trees to stop erosion and reduce evaporation. ‘The strong sense of community spirit engendered by working together has benefited the villagers in many other ways.’ Frances’ designer range of jewellery has been received well in Scotland and she has plans to expand the business in the near future: ‘We are thrilled with the positive comments we’ve had. ‘We’ve now expanded from internet sales and are proud to be selling in the Gleneagles Hotel, the Scottish Antique and Arts Centre in Doune, and are working on finding new outlets in Scotland.’

www.frankibaker.co.uk

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orking with charities such as CARE and VSO in Sierra

Leone in recent years, Joyce has been working with Oxfam in Gaza since May this year. As partnership advisor with Oxfam, she finds herself working with local partner organisations to improve their financial and purchasing systems. She also helps to improve communications and supports them through their planning processes to ensure they are effective. ‘For so many people in so many countries in the world they don’t have the access to opportunity,’ Joyce explains why she devotes her life to humanitarian issues. ‘They don’t have the chance to demand their rights - they often don’t know that they have rights to demand. ‘And despite an abundance of natural resources and availability of productive land and seas, they don’t

Joyce, 42 of Galashiels has been working with charities overseas for the past 7 years.

JOyCE DAlGlIESH have the wherewithal to benefit from it. Access to education and health facilities that we take for granted are just not available to so many. ‘Instead of sitting at home and reading about these issues and discussing them over dinner with friends I decided that I wanted to try and do something more constructive - and here I am.’ Working in Gaza has been an eye-opener for Joyce. The war-torn country has been struggling under blockade from the Western Bank for four years. Israel introduced the blockade in order to isolate militant group Hamas and force them to stop militant fire. However, with only basic humanitarian supplies being allowed in and practically no exports allowed out, the economy has been crippled and is regressing. ‘We often hear the sound of gunfire and the deep boom of explosions which happens on a fairly regular basis along the strip,’ Joyce says. ‘What surprises me is the complete lack of a reaction from the people that I’m with because, for them, it’s such a normal occurrence and already I can

see how my reaction is changing even in such a short space of time. ‘It’s amazing how quickly we become accustomed to a new reality.’ Oxfam plays an important part in the redevelopment of Gaza by improving drinking water, establishing sewage networks and providing temporary jobs. They are also educating and have created a food voucher scheme to ensure nutritious foods are available. The blockade is now being lifted to an extent with more everyday products being allowed in, however, as Joyce explains, this falls short of a solution for the desperate people of Gaza: ‘While this means that more products are being allowed in they are still out of reach of most families who, even with the siege eased will remain without jobs and opportunities. ‘With 80% of the population dependent on some kind of aid, they don’t have the money to purchase the new products.’ Oxfam continue to fight for freedom for the Gazan people and Joyce remains hopeful of a successful future for the country: ‘In my short time here I have seen an amazing resilience in the hearts and minds of the people here – they are resourceful, educated and have hope for a positive outcome compared to the current situation. ‘The recent international attention and collective action of ordinary citizens has created the current shift in policy – with more effort more can be achieved – we need the people of the world not to forget about Gaza – and not to normalize the current situation. ‘If the blockade was lifted in its entirety then there would be an opportunity to rebuild Gaza – the economy, the homes and industries and the lives of the ordinary Gazan people.’

For the immediate future Joyce plans to remain in Gaza and continue her work with Oxfam.

For more information about the work Oxfam do in Gaza, visit their website at www.oxfam.org.uk/get_involved/cam-paign/actions/gaza_aid or participate in their text campaign by texting ‘LIFT’ to 70066.

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The exotic East is closer than you think, as COLLEEN REID found out

so near,

soThai

TRAVELLuxury

asiagardens.indd 1 6/8/10 10:31:11

TRAVELLuxury


orget taking a 14-hour flight to discover the beauty of the Far East, now you can enjoy the breathtaking surroundings, dining and hospitality just two

hours away. Situated a short distance from Alicante, Asia Gardens is the perfect getaway for those looking for a touch of Thailand closer to home. Upon entering Asia Gardens, we are immediately greeted by a gathering of gorgeous lilac trees, known as Prunus Cerasifera, which immediately place you in another world. The gardens host some 60 varieties of plants and fragrant flowers and along with scattered waterfalls and water features they create a tranquil ambiance within minutes of entering the five-star resort.

Resting over three levels in the foothills of the striking Sierra Cortina Mountains, the hotel and Thai Spa draws on Asian-inspired architecture to ensure all guests truly lose themselves. Set in an acre of forest, the resort promises to provide a holistic and truly unique holidaying experience and it definitely delivers. In the main lobby, a glass wall provides a picturesque view out to the Mediterranean Sea, whilst themed antiques and artifacts set the Asian premise of the main building. Asia Gardens has 312 Balinese style guestrooms that are elegantly sprinkled with Eastern delights such as complimentary kimono robes and slippers. Furnished with Eastern style furniture and decorated in Oriental themes,

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LuxuryTRAVEL


it’s easy to forget you are only a two-hour flight from Scotland. Through Japanese style sliding doors, the luxurious bathrooms feature walk-in showers alongside large baths while all rooms also have private balconies or terraces ensuring seclusion to unwind and soak up the sun. If technology is your thing, a cutting edge surround sound system, iPod dock, 32-inch plasma screen and Wi-Fi are provided in each room, if only to keep the other half happy as you sunbathe outside. Adding to the serenity, are the treatments available within the Spa. Offering a multitude of ways to unwind, from aroma massages to hot stone treatments, the spa is

definitely the place to forget about any stresses at home. Tatami style beds are available with experienced staff so you can enjoy scrubs and wraps to prepare your skin for the sun-kissed look. After being pampered enjoy a Turkish bath and for those with achy joints, take a dip in the hydrotherapy pool for soothing relief. The spa also plays host to the perfect honeymoon or romantic getaway with private cabins where couples can enjoy Thai massages and reflexology amongst other treatments together. Afterwards, couples can head into the sun where a lush private garden and petal strewn bath awaits. Spotted around the resort are some seven swimming


pools, three of which are heated for those keen to take a dip before the sun comes out. Or if you are looking for peace and quiet, a series of infinity pools stretch out surrounded by rattan sun-loungers. Also a child-friendly resort, Asia Gardens have set aside family rooms with a separate swimming pool allocated and a kids club situated close by to keep the little ones entertained. With plenty to do for all guests such as cycling, a fitness centre for those gym fanatics, spa facilities and not one but two 18-hole golf courses (designed by Jack Nicklaus, we must add) to keep him happy, all you have to worry about is which bar to visit next. After a tough day of massages and sun, we take our pick of the wealth of dining options. With three a la Carte restaurants to choose from we are spoilt for choice. For those wishing to try a little bit of everything, In Black is a chic gourmet restaurant offering international dishes, while for a taste of Asia, Koh Samui is definitely the choice whereas pool side Palapa reminds guests that they are in fact on the Mediterranean coast. An informal buffet style menu ideal for families is available in Udiapur where

both inside and outside seating is available so diners can enjoy the sunset over the mountains during dinner. After dinner, the stylish champagne bar opens serving up glitzy champagne cocktails the Sex and the City girls would envy. After cocktails we sit back and relax in the Bonsai Bar and Terrace for drinks and enjoy the evening entertainment. This perfect little piece of Asia makes the Far East reachable to those unable to handle the long-haul flight and will have you running back to de-stress year after year.

LuxuryTRAVEL


NEED TO KNOW:Room prices for a ‘Double Deluxe’ start at €242 rising to €384 during August. This price is per night, per room for bed and breakfast based on two sharing.Spa prices vary depending what treatments you require. There are a range of massages available including ‘hot stone massage’ (€125), ‘4 hands massage’ (€155) and thai massage (€95) plus a choice of other treatments including ‘Scrub & Body Lotion’ (€80) and ‘Thai Hand Basic Manicures (€55).For more information and a full list of treatments, visitwww.asiagardens.es


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