Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt: TV bloopers and three great recipes

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt editorial at McCarthy Holden

BBC Saturday Kitchen star Matt Tebbutt says one of his biggest challenges is not swearing because “you forget you’re on TV” – and over eight years he’s made a few blunders.

“You have to remember you’re on telly, and you can get very comfortable and act and say things you would in your own kitchen with your friends – you could easily swear, because I’m quite sweary” says the 50 year old, who replaced James Martin as presenter in 2016.

“I called Peter Gordon [a New Zealand chef] an f****** genius, under my breath. I had to apologise, I was mortified.”

Funnily enough, Tebbutt says he later received an email from Gordon’s PA thanking him for the mention on Saturday Kitchen in 2017. “[They said], ‘Our website has crashed, would you like to come for lunch?’

“I was told off quite rightly, but since then, I always try to have a little word myself before [going live].”

Tebbutt says that while the guests do wine tastings alongside tucking into the dishes cooked up on the show, he’s careful with alcohol while on air.

“What I’ve realised very quickly is that if I drink half a glass of wine, suddenly the autocue moves around, you’re not very good at linking words together. So if I drink like a centimetre of wine in the whole show, I’d be surprised.

“We taste a lot in rehearsals,” he adds.

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt editorial at McCarthy Holden
Matt Tebutt

Tebbutt has just released his latest cookbook, Pub Food, a collection of elevated pub dishes – think mussels cooked in beer with crispy monkfish cheeks, and rump of Welsh lamb with spiced aubergine, mint and yoghurt – as well as a celebration of British pubs in general.

They are “one of the last melting pots there are in life”, says the chef, who also presents Food Unwrapped on Channel 4. “I will disappear on a Friday and go and do Saturday Kitchen. And then I’ll meet some quite famous faces sometimes, get back to the pub [near his home in Monmouthshire], and nobody gives a monkey’s! They really don’t care, and it’s great.

“You can be in the same place with very wealthy people and farmers, and the guy who empties the bins, all on the same level, and you’re all having a chat- there’s very few places you can do that anymore.

“Then if you throw good beer and conversation in the mix, and good food, I think they’re really special places.”

But local pubs are “having a really s*** time at the moment”, Tebbutt says. “They are struggling, the prices are going through the roof, energy costs, food costs, staffing. It’s all hindering the growth – they’re shutting by stupid numbers per week. I think it’s a real shame and it’s something worth trying to save.

“People need to remember that they’re not going to always be there. And if you’ve got a good one then go and support it.”

Tebbutt and his wife Lisa ran the Foxhunter Inn, Monmouthshire, for 14 years, where they championed sustainable, local fare – something that’s still his M.O. “In the mid Nineties [when working in London] seasonal and local weren’t really such a big thing. Then I moved out, set up my own place, and it seemed obvious because A, it’s going to be cheaper, and B, it’s going to be at its best.”

People are “much more in tune” with sustainable eating now, he notes.

Many of the recipes in the new book are influenced by the local produce of Monmouthshire and what he used to be on the pub menu. “Obviously, [there’s] a lot of lamb, a lot of mushrooms through foraging, crayfish dishes – because we get crayfish in the rivers – wild samphire, eel, black pudding,” Tebbutt says.

Eventually, he burned out running his own pub. “It was a very different sort of relentless business. We didn’t take a break – we did it for 14 years. I was juggling TV and the restaurant for quite some time, and then reached a point where I didn’t think it was sustainable, because I was knackered.

“Little country pubs, as lovely as they are, and everyone wants them on their doorstep, they’ve got to be supported because they’re bloody hard work to keep going.”

Tebbutt originally learned his trade in Michelin star kitchens in London, training under Marco Pierre White and Sally Clarke. And despite having to get up at 5am to film Saturday Kitchen, the hours are “a walk in the park” compared to life in a professional kitchen.

“When I first got into TV and you do 10-hour days or something, and you’d have people saying, ‘Are you OK?’, ‘Do you need to sit down?’, ‘Do you need a drink?’ – no, I’m fine! When you’re used to working 18-hour days in sometimes horrible conditions, everything [else] is a breeze.”

Tebbutt was first attracted to life in the kitchen after reading White Heat by Marco Pierre White when he was 16. “It just made chefs look really cool and sexy and really, really rock and roll. It was the first cookbook that had this dirty-looking, kind of rugged chef producing the most beautiful place of food.

“That juxtaposition between the sweat and the blood and tears at the back of house and the control at the front – I just kind of fell in love with it.

“Kitchens, they’re a bit like joining the army. You go in at the bottom, you keep your head down, you find your way and you slowly build yourself up. It’s brutal but you learn a lot.”

But some head chefs do take it too far. He remembers going to eat in one restaurant when he was working in London by a very famous chef at the time; “They had an open door and we saw this chef absolutely, continually tearing his kitchen staff apart. To the point where it was all heads down, they looked broken.

“And then you get the food, it looks beautiful, but you don’t want to eat it because of the misery that’s gone into it.

So now, “I don’t like the chef, I won’t eat their food.”

Matt Tebbutt’s Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt is published in hardback by Quadrille on August 29, priced £26. Photography by Chris Terry.

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt editorial at McCarthy Holden

And Now Some Recipes From Matt

Matt Tebbutt’s chocolate pudding and mascarpone ice cream recipe

By Lauren Taylor

“This is quite a light, delicate chocolate cake, with a deliciously molten interior. The star anise is optional if you’re not a fan,” says TV chef Matt Tebbutt.

Chocolate pudding and mascarpone ice cream

Ingredients

(Makes 10-12 little puddings)

For the mascarpone:

350ml water

150g caster sugar

Finely grated zest and juice (about 75ml) of 2 unwaxed lemons

400g mascarpone cheese

For the chocolate puddings:

250g dark chocolate, broken into pieces

250g unsalted butter

125g caster sugar

1 tsp freshly ground star anise, sieved (remove the seeds from the pod, and crush in a pestle and mortar), optional

5 medium free-range eggs

5 medium free-range egg yolks

50g plain flour

a pinch of salt

Good-quality cocoa powder, to serve (optional)

Method

1. Start both the ice cream and cake the day before. For the ice cream, simply boil the water, sugar and lemon zest in a saucepan. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from the heat and stir in the mascarpone with the lemon juice. Cool and chill in an ice-cream maker (be careful not to over-churn). Freeze in a suitable container.

2. For the chocolate pudding, melt the chocolate and butter in a bowl over a saucepan of hot water. In a bowl, whisk the sugar, powdered anise, whole eggs and egg yolks until light and pale. Slowly add the melted chocolate to the egg and sugar mixture. Carefully fold in the flour and salt. Pour the mixture into little 200ml non-stick moulds, filling them halfway. Chill in the fridge overnight.

3. Next day, preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas 4.

4. Remove the pudding batter from the fridge, bring to room temperature and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, no longer. The outside of the cake mix should be set firm yet the middle will remain molten.

5. Serve the cake hot with the mascarpone ice cream and a dusting of cocoa powder, if liked.

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt editorial at McCarthy Holden

Matt Tebbutt’s smoked haddock souffle tart

By Lauren Taylor

“Lighter than a traditional quiche, but just as satisfying. Always source naturally smoked haddock,” says TV chef Matt Tebbutt.

Smoked haddock souffle tart

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

2 smoked haddock fillets

1.5 litres whole milk

1 bunch fresh dill, chopped

60g unsalted butter, melted

50g strong Cheddar, grated

1 tbsp crème fraîche or double cream

3 free-range eggs, separated

1 ready-made 22cm round shortcrust pastry case

Salt and pepper

To serve:

Mixed green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice

Lemon wedges

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6.

2. Place the haddock and milk in a large saucepan and poach for 8–10 minutes or until cooked through.

3. Remove the fish, leave to cool and break the haddock into flakes. Place the haddock in a bowl and stir in the dill, melted butter, cheese and crème fraîche and season with salt and pepper. Add the egg yolks and mix to combine.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk the whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites gently through the haddock mixture.

5. Spoon the haddock mixture into the tart shell and bake for 35 minutes or until the filling has risen and the pastry is golden.

6. Serve the tart in slices with a green salad, and a lemon wedge for squeezing over.

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt editorial at McCarthy Holden

Matt Tebbutt’s rack of lamb recipe

By Lauren Taylor, PA

“I don’t really need to comment much on this one – it’s heavenly, early summer on a plate!” says TV chef Matt Tebbutt.

Rack of lamb with baby gem lettuce, peas, mint and bacon.

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

Olive oil

2 x 8-bone racks of lamb

Salt and pepper

4 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves picked

75g unsalted butter

4 medium baby gem lettuces, halved

200g pancetta or bacon, diced

4 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced

100g fresh shelled peas, blanched and refreshed

800ml lamb stock

4 sprigs fresh mint, leaves picked and torn, plus extra to garnish

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan. Season the lamb fat with salt and pepper, then fry fat side down for a few minutes over a high heat until browned.

3. Turn over, put into a roasting tin and sprinkle with some of the fresh thyme. Roast in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or to your liking. Leave to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

4. In another frying pan, add 15g of the butter and colour off the baby gem lettuces, cut side down, in the foaming butter. Throw in the diced pancetta, the garlic and remaining thyme, and sauté for a few minutes until coloured. Add the peas and pour in the lamb stock. Bring to the boil and simmer for 2–3 minutes to warm everything through.

5. Cut the lamb into chops and place on a large serving dish. Throw the mint into the simmering stock along with the remaining butter. Stir in to enrich the sauce and give it a good sheen. Season carefully, as the pancetta may already have seasoned the stock sufficiently. Spoon around the lamb racks and serve garnished with the extra mint.

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt editorial at McCarthy Holden

3 of the hottest interior design trends for the coming year

McCarthy Holden Interior Design

If you’re looking for inspiration to immerse yourself in the world of interiors, these style notes from one of the major events in the design calendar, 3 Days of Design, showcase some of the biggest influences.

The theme of this year’s event, Dare to Dream, attracted tastemakers and interior aficionados from around the globe who flocked to Copenhagen to ‘celebrate creativity’.

Daniela Venturini, Wayfair’s resident art director and trend forecaster, says: “As an interior enthusiast, I love to delve deep into the world of contemporary aesthetics and visionary craftsmanship.”

“3 Days of Design was not just an exploration of current trends, but an immersive experience that encouraged us all to dare to dream, push boundaries and see the future of design with endless possibilities.”

McCarthy Holden Interior Design
Daniela Venturini, Wayfair’s resident art director

She says the city, the creativity and the collective spirit of the event left an indelible mark, urging us all to dream bigger and design bolder.

“Incorporate these key trends into your home, even on a budget, and you too can embrace the cutting-edge of design – and make it your own.”

So, which trends can you take away to up your interior styling?

Sculptural Futuristic

“Metals sit centre stage with mesmerising, statement-making finishes,” highlights Venturini.

“Think high-shine, mirror-polish and textured surfaces, from burnt and oxidised to patinated and brushed.”

“The tactile finish of these pieces adds an unexpected warmth to traditionally industrial elements.” She continues. “Metals like brass, bronze and copper are mainstays, while cool silver tones are also angling for the spotlight.”

Venturini’s top tips…

“Keep an eye out for budget-friendly metallic accessories. Look for vases, candle holders or picture frames with oxidised or brushed finishes, effortlessly incorporating tactile richness into any space, without breaking the bank.”

If you love a DIY project, she says to consider adding a patina finish to inexpensive metal furnishings. “Online tutorials can guide you on how to achieve a burnt or oxidised effect on bulkier items like chairs and side tables.”

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Luxury Nostalgia

As consumers seek more meaningful items with a genuine narrative, handcrafted details and heritage-driven designs are gaining popularity, notes Venturini.

“What we see, not only in Copenhagen, but also in trend-led hotels and on Pinterest, is a smorgasbord of retro and vintage-inspired pieces that shine a light on nostalgia, while maintaining current-day individuality,” she underlines.

“Rich materials from corduroy, boucle and walnut to burled wood, smoked glass, steel and leather graced numerous installations, blending traditional and modern effortlessly.”

Venturini’s top tips…

For vintage-inspired, retro pieces, she says to search for tactile fabrics, richly upholstered furniture, walnut-finish tables or rustic wood décor.

“Don’t underestimate the power of second-hand… find pre-loved pieces that can be upcycled with simple DIY projects, such as reupholstering a chair or refinishing a coffee table.”

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McCarthy Holden Interior Design

Fun Fusion Digitopia

“Digitopia saw the meticulous merging of technology and creativity, creating surreal, transformative designs that challenged convention,” explains Venturini.

“Picture brightly coloured yet monochrome products, and geometric offerings presented in unconventional forms – and you get the idea.”

“These imaginative products were truly expressive, embodying idealised escapism, fun and abundance, promoting optimism, creativity and self-expression.

“Who wouldn’t want a bit of that?”

Venturini’s top tips…

She suggests introducing playful, vibrant accessories such as accent pillows, rugs or wall art, along with bold patterns and colours to lift the mood of any room.

“Incorporate smart home products that blend style and technology, such as stylish smart light fixtures or interactive décor pieces.” And there you have it.

McCarthy Holden Interior Design
McCarthy Holden Interior Design
McCarthy Holden Interior Design

How to stop the financial details stored on your mobile phone becoming a goldmine for thieves

MOBILE PHONE DATA RISK

Being deprived of your mobile phone when thieves strike may be bad enough, but victims sometimes lose much more than just their device.

A quarter (26%) of mobile theft victims also experienced fraudulent transactions, according to a new survey, with the average loss put at £2,711.

Around one in nine (11%) people say they have been targeted by thieves for their mobile phones in the past five years, research from money insights provider Intuit Credit Karma found.

With mobile phones often being the main way people carry out their routine financial admin, some devices could be a treasure trove for thieves.

By Vicky Shaw, PA Personal Finance Correspondent

MOBILE PHONE DATA RISK
Akansha Nath, general manager (international) at Intuit Credit Karma

More than four-fifths (82%) of smartphone users surveyed have at least one banking or financial app on their phone.

Nearly two-fifths (38%) admit to storing sensitive information on their device, such as passwords and pin codes.

In other phone security “faux pas”, a fifth (20%) have passwords and pin codes stored in the contacts section of their mobile phone, according to the survey by Opinium of 2,000 adults across the UK in March.

Despite crucial information being stored on phones, over a fifth (22%) of people claim that if they lost access to their phone, they wouldn’t know their online banking logins.

Akansha Nath, general manager (international) at Intuit Credit Karma, says: “Experiencing mobile phone theft is a distressing situation which can be exacerbated if the perpetrator then uses the phone to access sensitive financial information.

“Therefore, safeguarding any banking information stored on your phone is crucial. While preventing phone theft isn’t always possible, there are measures you can implement to secure your sensitive banking information in these unfortunate situations.”

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MOBILE PHONE DATA RISK

Here are Nath’s tips on how to keep financial information safe on your phone and stopping personal details becoming a goldmine for thieves:

1. Remember your passwords or add extra security

“It can be easy to just save your passwords to your ‘notes’ app, but it is also easy for a thief to access these notes when stealing your phone which then allows them to gain access to all of your online accounts, including your banking apps,” says Nath.

She suggests: “Try your best to remember your passwords and don’t keep them stored on your phone. If you struggle to remember these passwords consider using a reputable password manager application to securely store and manage your passwords.”

She adds: “Choose a password manager with features like two-factor authentication and strong encryption to enhance security further.”

2. Take care when using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Nath warns that hackers can exploit unsecured connections.

She suggests: “Stick to trusted networks and devices or use a virtual private network (VPN) when accessing sensitive information over public networks.”

3. Set up passcodes and biometric locks

“Always lock your phone with a passcode, pattern, or biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition,” says Nath.

“This prevents unauthorised access to your device, reducing the risk of someone accessing your sensitive information if your phone is lost or stolen.”

4. Be mindful of your surroundings

Being aware of the physical situation you’re in – and the potential threats from your immediate location – can be as important as being mindful of the technology you’re using.

Nath says: “When using your phone in public, be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying it unnecessarily.

“Keep your phone securely in your pocket, bag, or hand, and refrain from leaving it unattended on tables or countertops. Being vigilant can deter opportunistic thieves and reduce the risk of your phone being snatched or grabbed by someone passing by.

“If you need to use your phone in a crowded area, try to find a safe and secluded spot away from prying eyes to minimise the chance of theft or unwanted access to your device.”

5. Monitor your credit

Keeping up-to-date with your credit reports can help you to spot if someone has tried to use your financial details fraudulently, perhaps by taking out a loan in your name.

Credit monitoring tools will send you notifications if there are any changes in how you have used your credit.

If you think your details have been compromised, or you spot a transaction on your account that doesn’t look right, tell your bank immediately, as well as the police.

In addition to Nath’s tips, it’s worth bearing in mind that many banks have also signed up to an anti-fraud phone call service.

If someone believes another person is trying to trick them into handing over money or personal details, they can hang up and call 159 to speak directly to their bank.

Those taking part in the 159 scheme include Bank of Scotland, Barclays, Co-operative Bank, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, Metro Bank, Monzo, Nationwide Building Society, NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, Santander, Starling Bank, Tide, TSB and Ulster Bank.

To help keep your mobile safe, consumer group Which? also suggests making sure that devices are kept up-to-date with security patches for new vulnerabilities, and steering clear of out-of-date, unsupported mobiles.

Which? also suggests adding a unique pin to your sim card, registering for Google’s Find My Device or Apple’s Find My iPhone, and disabling preview notifications. These flash up messages even when your phone is locked.

Another simple tip from the consumer group is to try to keep bank cards separate from your phone – as the two combined could make it much easier for a thief to pass security checks. Many banks have options to immediately freeze cards in their apps.

Finally, don’t forget to check your social media as personal details on online profiles could also give thieves clues to your passwords or answers to security questions.

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These are the hottest colour combinations for your home this summer

By Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PA

Your home’s colour combinations can impact your mood, and help create a cohesive look with your decor.

But before transforming any plain white walls, there are a few things to consider: starting with is the room for eating, working or sleeping? And what ‘feel’ are you hoping to achieve with the space?

“Colour plays an inherent part in the human psyche,” says interior designer Ann Marie Cousins, owner of AMC Design. “We know that each use of colour will instil a feeling and emotion, and it’s important to channel that into our interiors for it to feel bespoke.

“Your colour story needs to develop throughout the house, both according to the function of the room and also the orientation of the room, and the temperament of the people who would use it the most.

“If it’s a small house, it is best to keep the palette consistent throughout and then add interest with colourful art and accessories,” she suggests. “On a larger project, there’s plenty of opportunity to be bold and really explore the personalities of those who live there with these new power hue combinations.”

So, what are the hottest colour combinations right now? Cousins shares everything you need to know…

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Blue and white

Blue and white is a classic colour combination which is seeing a return.

“There is no rule book as such about the emotional impact of blue and white, but the shade combination is important in terms of mood, and we find it’s personal to each client,” says Cousins. “Blue has a reputation that it evokes feelings of the cold, but it very much depends on the hue. Just think of the difference between the blue of the Aegean Sea versus the grey-blue of the North Sea.”

So, how do you know which blues to choose?

“Think about the mood you wish to create in your space. If you would like an elegant room, consider a rich navy with white panelling and flecks of mustard textiles to create a sophisticated and restful feel,” says Cousins. “However, if you prefer a more joyful and energetic scheme, opt for a light turquoise-like blue ground by F&B, paired with a soft white, like strong white, which will make you feel uplifted.

“When choosing the right shades for your walls or ceilings, always test the colour first. A blue with a slightly cold undertone can look almost grey in a north-facing room, and a white which lacks warmth will look flat and unwelcoming in the same room.

“Plan by buying samples of paint and wallpaper and placing them on the wall for at least two to three days before you commit,” she suggests. “Do remember you will need a disrupter colour to pull the scheme together. A dash of blush pink can add softness to your navy and white scheme, or a coral throw at the end of the bed can help to elevate and contrast effortlessly.”

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Nourishing greens

Bringing nature into our homes shows no signs of slowing down, either.

“We are taking that one step further this year by immersing ourselves in a natural setting and nature scaping with nourishing greens. The concept is to provide a calming and grounding atmosphere which recognises the positive impact of nature on human wellbeing,” says Cousins.

“One of the easiest ways to do this is to select your chosen green colour and combine it with a hue which falls opposite to the green in the colour wheel.

“Pinks, corals and peaches teamed with green replicate gardens in full bloom, and so we are likely to see this emerge as a breakout palette. Dip your toe in and choose green, biophilic wallpaper and coordinating pink textiles, or go bold and colour-drench the room in your chosen green – skirting, doors and all – then complement with a statement pink rug.”

Go for gold and jewels

Gold is associated with opulence and luxury, and Cousins says the use of gold gilding and gold leaf can really level up the drama in a space.

“A raft of celebrities have chosen to utilise metallics in their homes, so it’s no surprise it’s trending as people replicate the luxe look. When gold is applied in spaces such as bathrooms, bedrooms and kitchens, it needs both a tether colour and also a paired neutral,” she says.

“The complementing hues for gold are jewel-like tones, so a deep teal or sapphire blue can look effortlessly chic, especially in a bedroom or cosy living room, or a gold backsplash in a kitchen set against a moody blue or dark green cabinet and a warm white works so well.”

Neutrals have had a 2024 makeover

Neutrals such as light grey, beige and creams are being replaced by strong earthy colour palettes or more statement versions.

“Richer versions, such as terracotta and rust, work in harmony with beige to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Warmer blush colours are also coming to the fore,” says Cousins.

“Little Greene and Dulux have some amazing pink variations such as ‘Masquerade’ and ‘Sweet Embrace ’ in their neutral palettes. With so many people gravitating to these warm blush or clay tones, the needle may be pushed further moving into deeper shades of purple over the next 12 months.”

Black and cream accompanied by orange

Cream is a staple colour for many designers – a neutral base that feels warmer than white, so is great for living rooms and bedrooms. However, Cousins believes that paired with black and flanked by a burnt orange, this combination can be transformational and lift a flat room in an instant.

“My favourite way to use this pairing is to pick a strong black and cream patterned fabric for curtains or wallpaper for a statement wall, and add a pop of bright orange on a bedhead, layering abstract cushions or accessories,” she says. “This is a perfect way to modernise a dated or Victorian property without having to renovate.”

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Serene green: 10 ways to breathe new life into your decor this spring

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

If you long for a sense of being at one with nature, green could be your go-to hue this springtime.

And if you’re looking to give your interiors a quick refresh and switch things up as the seasons change, there really is no more suitable shade than serene green.

Whether you want to create a tranquil scheme to sink into at the end of the day, or breathe new life into your decor for chilled-out get-togethers, here are some of our top picks…

1. Nina Campbell Set of 4 Meadow Pasta Bowls, Green, £45, Next

This eye-catching stoneware with glossy green glaze will make everything look that much lovelier… think creamy spinach pasta sauce for small soirées.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

2. Manual Beech Wood Pepper Mill in Fern Green (available soon), and Boreal Manual Beech Wood Salt Mill in Sage Green, £44.99 each, Peugeot Saveurs.

A swanky salt mill and plush pepper mill to spice up your spring tablescape. We’re in – and these soft shades will complement any kitchen style.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

3. Totally Tropical Table Runner, £25, Totally Tropical Pack of 4 Placemats, £25, and Perfect Pineapple Pack of 4 Napkins, £15 (items from a selection), Joe Browns

We’ve gone Tropiloco over this exotic tableware collection, with its lush palm leaves, verdant vegetation and prize pineapples to signal salsa dishes.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

4. Green ‘Poppies’ 30cm Straight Empire Printed Cotton Shade by Ellen Merchant, £51 (lamp from a selection), Pooky

Even if you think you’re lighting is spot on, the longer, balmy days ahead call for a stylish table lamp to highlight all your details and decos.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

5. Graphical Green Gallery Wall – featuring: Il Giardino Dei Sapori Poster (30 x 40cm), Green Colour Blocks Poster (30 x 40cm), Van Gogh – River Bank In Springtime Poster (50 x 70cm), with Dark Oak Frames, currently £113.94 (was £146.65), Desenio

A favourite for feel-good vibes, colour drenching a room in the same green accents and creating a gallery wall themed to botanical plants is a fast route to style and positive energy.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

6. John Lewis ANYDAY Spindle Desk in Bowling Green, £159.20, and ANYDAY Whistler Dining Chair in Bowling Green, £99, John Lewis

Whether you’re in the throes of a spring clean and reorganising your WFH space, or introducing a cosy corner aesthetic for managing life admin and hobbies, this bijoux desk will make it all a breeze.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

7. Portloe Woven Gingham Green Duvet Cover & Pillowcase Set, from £30-£50, Dunelm

A green gingham check has lots to offer, especially when teamed with co-ordinating solids and matching curtains, against a backdrop of bleached wood and mini olive trees for a dreamy, Mediterranean ambiance. Made from 100% washed cotton.

Interior design image McCarthy Holden

How to renovate your kitchen sustainably

McCarthy Holden kitchen editorial

When looking to transform your home, one of the first things that comes to mind is the kitchen – after all, it’s the hardest-working room in the house.

And with sustainability high on the agenda, chances are eco-friendly choices are right up there.

Indeed, according to the latest kitchen trends survey by home renovation and design platform, Houzz, it’s overwhelmingly a priority for homeowners, with the vast majority incorporating sustainable features during their renovation (93%).

Interestingly, the majority do so because of the long-term cost-effectiveness (75%). So how do you tackle your kitchen renovation in the most sustainable way?

By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

McCarthy Holden kitchen editorial

Why it’s important

“A kitchen renovation is often a big project,” says Amanda Pollard, senior editor, Houzz. “It’s likely to create significant amounts of waste and will involve choosing numerous different materials and elements, which will all have an impact on the environment.”

The kitchen industry consumes a lot of virgin raw materials to produce all of the different elements, such as wood products for cabinetry, metals for appliances and stone for worktops, explains Mark Byers, director of Oliver Green Kitchens.

“Fortunately, the industry has reacted to the high demand for raw materials by embracing recycling,” says Byers. “But consumers also have a part to play by making good material choices when replacing or updating their kitchen.”

As Felicity White, director of Felicity White Interiors, points out: “Kitchen renovations are typically the most expensive area of the home to renovate, so creating a kitchen that’s going to stand the test of time is also important financially.”

McCarthy Holden kitchen editorial
Amanda Pollard

The main things to think about

“There are three things to consider when choosing materials,” highlights Byers. “The first is whether it contains any recycled content, the second is its durability and the third is its end-of-life.”

Manufacturers play a big part in producing items that incorporate recycled elements, but we as consumers should be asking the question of how much, if any, recycled material is used in a product, advises Byers.

Secondly, considering the items’ durability means not buying products just based on price. “The cheapest products will often end up costing more over time because they simply don’t last,” says Byers.

“Sadly, the cheapest products are also the least likely to incorporate any recycled material and often cannot be easily recycled themselves,” notes Byers. “So being able to recycle, refurbish or repurpose products when you’re done with them is an important final consideration,” he adds.

One of the first questions we ask our clients is whether they can keep any elements of their old kitchen, says White. “Sometimes the cabinet carcasses are well-constructed and it’s a case of replacing the cabinet fronts and handles, or even wrapping the cabinet fronts to save throwing them away.”

However, if you’re planning a complete overhaul, and the existing kitchen is in good enough condition, she says it may also be possible to sell it through second-hand kitchen vendors, such as Rehome.”

McCarthy Holden kitchen editorial

What materials are best?

White says to aim for natural materials. “For cabinets and door fronts, FSC timber and plywood are better options than particle board or MDF options you typically find with large kitchen retailers.”

“With the right construction and treatment, natural wood can last longer as it’s stronger and can be repaired, whereas engineered wood can’t. Engineered wood can also contain high levels of formaldehyde, which can be nasty if it gets into the air, she adds.”

One material to use less of, or not at all, is MDF, warns Byers. “As it’s difficult to recycle, most MDF products at the end of their life are used for fuel, which releases carbon and other [unpleasant] chemicals into the atmosphere.”

“Laminate worktops are also not great,” he notes. “Not surprisingly, both these products are heavily used in the kitchen industry because they’re cheap. As a broad guide, the best products to use are those that can be recycled and used in new products or can be refurbished or repurposed.”

When choosing materials for your new kitchen, experts on Houzz advise researching where the item is coming from, how it has been made and what is in it, says Pollard. “It’s also best to source items as locally as possible and keep chemicals to a minimum.”

McCarthy Holden kitchen editorial

Caroline Quentin: Being an actor and a gardener is not a happy combination

Caroline Quentin Gardening McCarthy Holden

The Men Behaving Badly and Life Begins star, who recently appeared in Sky sci-fi series The Lazarus Project, also offers a wealth of advice and tips to her 150k followers on Instagram (@cqgardens).

Her husband, Sam, does much of the filming when she invites followers into her home near Tiverton in Devon, where she makes all sorts of dishes from ingredients she has grown, and shows us what she’s up to in her two-acre garden – which features an orchard, pond, greenhouse, raised vegetable beds and a flower garden, where the magic takes place..

Caroline Quentin Gardening McCarthy Holden

Now, Quentin has written – and illustrated – a new book, Drawn To The Garden. It’s part memoir, part guide, with chapters on seeds, salads, fruit and veg, water, herbs, pets and pests, memories and anecdotes meandering through each section.

Her garden, she says, is “not immaculate”. Weeds haven’t taken over, but she allows some buttercups and daisies to encourage bees.

“By my nature, I’m quite a chaotic person, so I don’t need things to be immaculate, but my vegetables are in a rotational system. I’ll mow a path through the grass rather than cut all the grass. I garden organically.”

The book also features a chapter on wellbeing, an important element to Quentin, whose mother suffered from bipolar disorder and spent periods in a psychiatric hospital, she recalls in the book.

When she was allowed to visit, she’d spend time in the hospital gardens, surrounded by marguerites, which she still loves.

“I genuinely believe that growing things, watching the birds, smelling the roses, eating the green stuff and drawing and painting, all help keep me this side of sanity and one step away from the big dark house on the hill,” she writes.

Here, she tells us more…

Caroline Quentin Gardening McCarthy Holden

How much has gardening benefited your mental health?

“I consider it responsible for my wellbeing. I am by nature someone who goes up and down. I have mood swings, I get low. And if I do feel low, the first thing I turn to is my garden, or if I can’t be near my garden, the nearest open space or natural environment.”

Did you always have access to a garden?

“As a little girl, we had a long strip of suburban terraced house lawn. It was not really a gardening space. Nobody in my house was particularly interested in gardening.

“I wouldn’t say I was a gardener when I was young but at primary school, I’d put a seed on a bit of blotting paper or a bulb in a jam jar with water underneath and it was fascinating. The whole optimism about growing things is always a good thing.”

What was your garden in Devon like when you first moved there?

“It was a derelict property, with just a field and a trickle of stream at the bottom. There was no garden. That was about 17 years ago.

“I put the pond in first because I knew when you put water into a garden, nature comes, and that was what I was most interested in. It was one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done with a garden. I swim in it too.”

How do you juggle your acting career with looking after the garden?

“You tend to film in the summer months, and gardening obviously happens a lot in the summer months as well. So I tend to be in the greenhouse in January, February and March, getting everything ready, sowing my seeds, getting the garden ready, and then suddenly the phone will ring and I’ll need to be away from the garden when everything needs to go in and be planted out. Being an actor and a gardener is not really a happy combination. The time balance is somehow wrong.

“I’m filming two dramas this year. I do get homesick. I’m really bad at being away from home, which is weird given that I do it for 90% of my life. But it’s a small price to pay for what has been a very enjoyable career.”

Do you have help?

“Sam will water for me, but he’s not a gardener. Anthony (her gardener) has helped me over the years. He comes in for a morning a week.”

Caroline Quentin Gardening McCarthy Holden

How do you maintain your wellbeing in the garden?

“I hug trees, I talk to trees, I spend as much time as I can in woodland. They call it forest bathing. It’s a deeply rooted human thing to want to be in the shade or dappled light of a tree on a summer’s day.

“I don’t formally meditate, but I do have a process where I try to breathe well when I’m outside if I’m feeling stressed or trying to learn some lines and they’re not going in, or there’s too much to do. I do a little bit of yoga every day. In the summer, I can do that outside and get my breathing organised to just slow my heart rate down and breathe in some good air.”

What’s next?

“I’m planning to downsize and start a new garden (in Devon). My children (Will and Rose) have left home and we have a big house and big plot of land. I’m getting older and maybe it’s time for me to start thinking about a garden for someone in their 60s. I want to make my next garden as well, I don’t want to inherit one. At the moment I’m fixated on having bees. So I’m thinking of an orchard with bees in it, and possibly some wildflowers.”

What will you take from your old garden to your new garden?

“Probably water. What’s brought me the most joy is watching swallows over the pond on a summer’s evening. I would definitely grow apples again and I would have maybe three or four raised beds, and a greenhouse or potting shed.”

Drawn To The Garden by Caroline Quentin is published by Frances Lincoln on February 15, priced £20.

Caroline Quentin Gardening McCarthy Holden

Latest Property Magazine & Market Insights

Magazine Icon McCarthy Holden

We are please to create our latest edition of In The Country & Town, providing an opportunity to provide our readers with market insights and also showcase some great properties to buy or to rent for those starting their 2024 property search this month.

In January and early February 2024 the house market has moved quickly with positive buyer activity turning into a healthy amount of new property sales, confirming in our view that house buyers believe that the best in house buying opportunities will be during the first six months of 2024.

For market insight and our advice to buyers and sellers, just click on the image below.

There are many fine properties to see within the pages of our magazine and you will see the wonderful interiors of some of the finest properties on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders, including a preview of the property shown below which is not yet on the open market. If you click on the image you will see more details and a video tour embedded in the magazine.

And here is another magazine preview exclusive, Situated within the sought after village of Herriard.

This exquisite three bedroom detached family home built in 2020 by Forays Homes, is located within an exclusive development of just three detached properties.

Benefits to this property include a detached double garage with ample driveway parking, air source heat pump, dressing room, underfloor heating, and wonderful countryside views.

Click on them image below for more details. 

Why not indulge in looking at our 90 pages magazine and see the wonderful interiors of some of the finest properties on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders.

We also hope you will enjoy reading some of the editorial features, including recipes from new chef Big Zuu, Caroline Quentin on her gardening experience, Paloma Faith: Becoming a mum, why going plant-based could transform your health, Michael Sheen on why he hopes The Way ‘gives voice’ to Port Talbot, TV & Film on One Love star Kingsley, how to renovate your kitchen sustainably, and motoring. 

Click image below for a full read.

Ella Mills’ creamy black bean and harissa stew

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item

“The best thing about batch cooking is that the flavours of the dish tend to get better the longer they marinate, so the leftovers are always a real treat, and this is certainly the case in this recipe,” says Ella Mills, the brains behind Deliciously Ella.

“It’s hearty and cosy, with lovely spices from the harissa, sweetness from the coconut and maple syrup, and a delicious nutty flavour from the almonds. The aubergine gives it great texture, while the beans ensure it really fills you up. It’s great on its own for a light supper, or for something a bit more substantial serve it with jasmine rice, jacket potatoes or crispy roast cauliflower.”

Creamy black bean, harissa and almond butter stew

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

1tbsp olive oil

2 shallots, halved and finely sliced

1 aubergine, finely diced into 1cm cubes

4 garlic cloves, crushed

1 × 400g tin of black beans, drained and rinsed

3tbsp harissa, plus extra to serve

1 × 400ml tin of coconut milk

400ml hot vegetable stock

2 heaped tbsp smooth almond butter

2tsp maple syrup

Grated zest and juice of 2 juicy limes

Sea salt and black pepper

Method:

1. Put the olive oil into a large frying pan over a medium heat, add the shallot and aubergine and a pinch of salt and fry for five minutes, until soft. Add the garlic, black beans and harissa and fry for two minutes, until fragrant.

2. Pour in the coconut milk, stock, almond butter and maple syrup. Bring to a boil, then put the lid on the pan and turn the heat down to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

3. Stir in the lime zest and juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Swirl an extra tablespoon of harissa through the stew to serve (if you’d like a little extra spice).

Note: To make crispy roast cauliflower, simply chop your cauliflower into small florets, place them on a baking tray with a tablespoon or so of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and roast in an oven preheated to 200ºC fan for about 20–25 minutes, until golden and crispy.

My girls love this recipe too, so when I’m cooking it for the family I hold off on the harissa and stir it into the adult portions once I’ve served the little ones.

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item
Ella Mills’ creamy black bean and harissa stew

Deliciously Ella: Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills is published by Yellow Kite, priced £22. Photography by Clare Winfield. Available now.

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item

Ella Mills’ crispy potato and paprika tray bake recipe

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item

“Crispy, crunchy, hearty and super-simple, this tray bake is the ideal recipe when you want something satisfying without lots of prep, mess or brain space!” says Ella Mills, the brains behind Deliciously Ella.

“The zesty harissa yoghurt is really versatile too; it makes for a great dip or dressing with any veg.”

Crispy potato and paprika tray bake

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

3 floury potatoes, such as Maris Piper (about 350g), with their skin

½tbsp olive oil

2 red onions, halved and finely sliced

2tsp paprika

1 punnet of cherry tomatoes (about 200g)

1 × 400g tin of butter beans, drained

½ bunch of coriander (about 10–15g), roughly chopped

Sea salt

For the harissa yoghurt:

4tbsp coconut yoghurt

2tbsp harissa

Grated zest and juice of 2 limes, plus wedges to serve

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C fan and bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil.

2. Cut the potatoes into one-centimetre cubes then add them to the boiling water. Meanwhile, put the olive oil into a large flat baking tray and place in the oven to heat up. Simmer the potatoes for five minutes, until softened slightly and a knife pierces them easily, then drain well and add them to the preheated tray along with the onion, paprika and a pinch of sea salt. Toss to combine, then bake for 20 minutes, tossing occasionally so that the potatoes cook evenly.

3. Add the cherry tomatoes and butter beans to the tray and cook for a further five minutes until the tomatoes are soft and the potatoes are crisp.

4. Meanwhile make the harissa yoghurt by mixing the coconut yoghurt, harissa, lime zest and juice together in a small bowl, seasoning with salt to taste, then transfer to a small serving bowl.

5. Once the potatoes are ready, remove from the oven, sprinkle over the coriander and serve with the harissa yoghurt on the side.

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item
Ella Mills’ crispy potato and paprika tray bake

Deliciously Ella: Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills is published by Yellow Kite, priced £22. Photography by Clare Winfield. Available now.

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item

Ella Mills’ lemony pea and broccoli pasta recipe

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item

“I make a variation of this for my kids a lot, using whatever greens I have in the fridge – green beans, asparagus, spinach etc. It’s exceptionally simple yet super-satisfying,” says Ella Mills, the brains behind Deliciously Ella.

Lemony pea and broccoli pasta

Ingredients:

(Serves 2)

2 servings of pasta; I like orecchiette in this dish (about 75g per person)

1 small head broccoli (about 300g) cut into small florets

100g frozen peas

Large handful of cashews (about 50g, see note below)

1 vegetable stock cube

1tsp Dijon mustard

1tbsp nutritional yeast

Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons

1 × 400g tin of butter beans, drained and rinsed

Sea salt and black pepper

Method:

1. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the instructions on the pack, adding the broccoli and frozen peas for the last three minutes of the cooking time. Cook until the pasta is al dente, the broccoli is tender, and the peas are defrosted, then drain and return to the pan.

2. Meanwhile, put the cashews and stock cube into a bowl with 100 millilitres boiling water, let the stock cube dissolve and the cashews soak for five minutes.

3. Put the mustard, nutritional yeast, the juice of both lemons and half the zest, and half the tin of butter beans into a high-speed blender along with the cashews and their soaking liquid. Blend until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Pour the sauce over the drained pasta and veg, adding the last half of the butter beans. Stir to combine and top with a little extra lemon zest.

Note: To make this nut-free, swap the cashews for sunflower seeds.

 

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item
Ella Mills’ lemony pea and broccoli pasta recipe

Deliciously Ella: Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills is published by Yellow Kite, priced £22. Photography by Clare Winfield. Available now.

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella McCarthy Holden news item
Healthy Made Simple by Ella Mills

Jay Blades says Sir David Jason is ‘perfect’ and collaborating on their new show was like ‘working with a teenager’

Jay Blade and Sir David Jason McCarthy Holden news item

Before the interview has even got fully under way, Sir David Jason is taking swipes at Jay Blades.

It is soon evident that this is the pair’s modus operandi. In fact, it becomes rather difficult to get an answer from either of them without the other butting in with a quip or alternative version of events.

Their zinging rapport is part of why the new BBC Two series, David And Jay’s Touring Toolshed, is such a joy. And beneath the veneer of friendly snark, their respect and esteem for one another is palpable.

Case in point: Blades is late to the Zoom call. Asked what his favourite moment from the series was – meeting the crafters, touring the country perhaps? – Sir David responds, “Well, I was going to say it was working with Jay. But now he’s not joining us, I can tell you the truth, that no way was he my favourite person. You can make what you like out of that.”

Jay Blade and Sir David Jason McCarthy Holden news item
Jay Blades and Sir David Jason

“Seriously though,” the veteran comic actor, 83, best known for his long stint in Only Fools And Horses, continues, “it was great working with Jay. He’s a super character. Lovely fella. Very, very easy to work with. He’s the sort of person where what you see is what you get.”

Blades appears on screen in a burst of laughter. “You’re not wanted now,” Sir David quips immediately.

“You thought you could get away without me being there, hey?” responds Blades. “David, you rein it in now. You behave yourself. It’s not the David show like you wanted it to be. They didn’t edit me out. I’m in there.”

Touring Toolshed sees Sir David and Blades take to the road, travelling the length of the UK to lend a hand to crafters and makers, both amateur and professional, and learn about their passions and projects. Donning matching blue caps, they visit craft shows, country fairs, steam rallies and engineering fairs. The toolshed – a trailer-come-shed equipped with a plethora of tools – pulls up and Sir David, Blades and various experts help individuals solve tricky challenges.

Jay Blade and Sir David Jason McCarthy Holden news item
David and Jay's Touring Toolshed

On working with the comedian for the first time, Blades, 53, calls him “a national icon”.

“It was a real joy working with someone I grew up with,” he continues. “And then you’re working with someone who is perfect in every single way. You’ve got to think, the age this young man is, we’d have done a full day’s filming – 14 hours, let’s say – and we go back to the hotel and have dinner and he’s talking about what we can do tomorrow. It was as if I was working with a teenager.”

Both Sir David and Blades are makers themselves. Blades is a long-time furniture restorer, author and presenter of shows including The Repair Shop and Jay Blades’ Home Fix. Sir David has a long-held passion for inventing and fixing things. Where did that originate?

“I have the ability,” the Del Boy star says, “because going back into history, when I first started work I was an apprentice electrician. When you are an apprentice to any trade, you have to absorb all sorts of traits – you’re bumping into people who are bricklayers, plasterers, pipe benders, plumbers. And if you’re interested in making things, it leaves its mark. You get interested in how a plumber bends a piece of pipe, and that sort of thing is still with me, I still love bending pipes. Well, now the pipe I bend is round Jay’s neck but…”

“Well, don’t tell them about that,” retorts Blades. “But Sir David still makes, and I still make. And what I love about making is the future aspect of it – you never just make something and that’s it. You’re always seeing the next step. Where can I take this? How can I move it forward?

Jay Blade and Sir David Jason McCarthy Holden news item
Ladies of Soy Quine Rowing Club with Jay Blades and Sir David Jason

“We had a load of different makers come along and the beauty for me is upskilling, so a lot of the people did have a stumbling block and we teamed them up with an expert who would help them right now with the problem at hand, but also in the future, so when they go off and make something else, they’ll have the ability to do it.

“So there’s a lady on there who made these beautiful puppets, but she didn’t know how to make them move. We had an expert show her how to organise the motor and put the strings in the right place – so when she builds another puppet, she can apply those skills straight away.”

A project that particularly impressed the pair involved upcycling aircraft windows.

“We met a couple of chaps who worked on an airfield,” Sir David explains, “and in the corner of the airfield was a broken-down aeroplane that had been there for months and months and was just rotting away. So the pair of them started to take it apart, recycle and polish the windows, and sell them – and they were going like hotcakes.

“And it was brilliant to see how they were making something out of nothing – that was quite an eye-opener, wasn’t it?”

 

Jay Blade and Sir David Jason McCarthy Holden news item
Ja Blades and Sir David Jason with Gordon Talbot

“They were making rubbish attractive and desirable!” exclaims Blades. The idea has since flourished into a fully fledged small business turning the portholes into mirrors and mosaic tables.

“You’d never believe that something that was rotting in a field could be turned into such a desirable item,” Blades continues. “That’s the beauty of what we found on the show. There were so many people with brilliant ideas.”

Do they hope the show will inspire viewers to start making and tinkering themselves?

“I don’t use the word hope,” says Blades. “I know it’s going to, plain and simple. This show, you’ve got a legend such as Sir David, and someone who knows about making and is as enthusiastic about it as me, and that enthusiasm comes over on screen and people will be inspired to continue making, tinkering and pushing it forward.”

.

Jay Blade and Sir David Jason McCarthy Holden news item
Sam Beresford and Sir David Jason

“I’m sure he’s right,” says Sir David, followed by a brief parley between the pair about the shock of finding themselves in agreement about something. “We will inspire people to invent, create, perhaps see something that nobody else has seen. So we’re hoping that what we’re going to achieve is for people to be inspired and get off their…”

Blades, chuckling, adds: “Seats.”

David And Jay’s Touring Toolshed started on BBC Two on Monday January 22.

Top End Market Uptick In January

market uptick 3

Residential property sales saw a notable uptick in January at McCarthy Holden, with contracts being exchanged and new sales being agreed.

Luke Parkes runs the country house department from our Hartley Wintney branch and in the last week some examples of the top end market activity included another property sale exchange on The Ridges, Finchampstead at circa £1.9m., and a new sale agreed on a £5.250m. property in Finchampstead on the Berkshire / Hampshire borders. The video below shows these specific properties.

In addition, yet another insight into market activity in the higher end sector was witnessed when he put the property below live to the open market on Friday last week, only to receive and offer on the every first viewing.

Right now Luke Parkes is encouraging anyone thinking of selling in the £1.5m. to £5.0m. sector to contact him and discuss the possibility of coming to the market early this year to take advantage of the buyer interest currently in place. For further information telephone 01252 842100 or email [email protected]

Luke McCarthy Holden estate agents May 2021
Contact Luke Parkes for country & equestrian property

Experienced Consultant Joins McCarthy Holden

HARTLEY WINTNEY PIC ICON WITH TEXT

Having previously set up and run many successful property companies in the past, Nigel Allen joins McCarthy Holden in Hartley Wintney as a very experienced consultant in the property industry.

Coincidently Nigel started his career as an estate agent just over 40 years ago at the tender age of 16 and actually worked with McCarthy Holden Chairman John Holden for 7 years with Carson & Company. He left in 1990 with one of the Directors to start Vickery and company, before starting his own company called Orchard Sales & Lettings based in Camberley in 2006, a business he sold 10 years later.

NIGEL ALLEN 598 X 598
Nigel Allen

Nigel subsequently opened a land and new homes business and a property related recruitment company which he sold in 2022.

There is clearly no question that Nigel will bring a vast amount of experience and ability and a skill set that will be of benefit to McCarthy Holden clients.

Having previously worked in Hartley Wintney and living in the village, Nigel is looking forward to sharing his vast experience helping local sellers and buyers alike.

In his spare time Nigel can be found either entertaining his twin grandsons or, together with his wife, walking their dog on one of the commons in the village.

You can contact Nigel by phone on 01252 842100 of by email [email protected]

HARTLEY WINTNEY AERIAL IMAAGE
Hartley Wintney

Property Previews – Due To Open Market Soon

McCarthy Holden Property Preview

We are delighted to bring our newsletter readers a preview of some properties that are about to go to the open market any day soon, so enjoy this opportunity to get ahead.

House buyers and search agents alike love the opportunity to see a property that hasn’t yet been placed on the open market, so here are a few of the interesting and diverse properties to whet their property search appetite.

Fleet, Hampshire – Estimated Guide £1,200,000

This character home is in an excellent location and competitively priced, so take a look at the preview video above and telephone 01252 620640 or email [email protected] for further information or an appointment to view.

Hartley Wintney (Cricket Green Area) – Estimated Guide £635,000

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Our Hartley Wintney branch will soon be placing this lovely 2 bedroom terraced cottage on the open market, situated by the cricket green so this is an opportunity not to be missed. The owners are just preparing the property for sale, but in the meantime we are showing some old photographs above will give you some insight. Telephone 01252 842100 ro email [email protected] for further information or an appointment to view.

Finchampstead, Berkshire – Estimated Guide £2,250,000

McCarthy Holden Property Image

Our country house department will be showcasing this unique property in about ten days from now, so this is a rare opportunity to get in early. We sold this property to the current owners many years ago, but due to a long term overseas job move they have reluctantly decided to sell. The property features a high specification interior, extensive garaging (6 cars) and a superb detached home office building.

The property is situated in a wonderful rural location in Finchampstead, about 5 miles from Wokingham and about 3 miles from renowned Wellington College. Telephone 01252 842100 or email [email protected] for further information or an appointment to view..

Eversley, Hampshire – Anticipated Guide Offers In Excess of £1,100,000

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This is a truly unique four bedroom detached character property, situated in the heart of Eversley Village. Built in 1812 and extended and modernised throughout, the property offers modern living, stunning interior design and character charm.

Due to the market in about two weeks, so early viewing is recommended. Telephone 01252 842100 or email [email protected] for further information or an appointment to view..

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